Rochester, NY, September 26, 2025
News Summary
Black Button Distilling, New York’s largest bourbon distillery, has secured crucial investment from Blackstar Company to avoid bankruptcy. The investment ensures production and sales continuation of its various spirits, including bourbon and Empire Rye whiskey. This partnership allows the distillery to retain all nine employees and assess future operations. Black Button, known for its local sourcing and quality products, has expanded to a new facility, enabling increased production capacity. The community’s support underscores its significance in the local economy and culture.
Rochester, NY – Black Button Distilling, the largest bourbon distillery in New York, has successfully avoided bankruptcy through a substantial investment from the newly-formed Blackstar Company, a group comprised of seasoned industry experts. This timely intervention guarantees the continuation of production and sales of various spirits including bourbon, Empire Rye whiskey, vodka, gin, and Bespoke Bourbon Cream.
The investment comes at a crucial time, as Black Button Distilling was facing the possibility of closure. Kris Comstock, co-leader of Blackstar Company, reached out to Jason Barrett, founder of Black Button, expressing concern over the distillery’s situation. Comstock noted the significant community support on social media, highlighting the importance of Black Button in the local culture and economy.
With this financial backing, Black Button Distilling will be able to retain all of its nine full-time employees. The distillery’s tasting room, which has been closed since July 2023, will remain shut while the new management assesses the business operations moving forward.
Jason Barrett expressed his gratitude for the partnership with Blackstar Company, emphasizing the critical need for the distillery to remain operational. Barrett and his team will continue managing daily operations while benefiting from the additional resources and expertise provided by Blackstar, which is headquartered in Lexington, KY.
Black Button Distilling was established in 2012, marking the first craft distillery to open in Rochester, NY, since Prohibition. The distillery has relocated to a newly expanded facility on University Avenue in July 2023, which quadruples its size to 28,000 square feet, allowing for increased production capacity. Prior to the investment deal, the distillery was producing 40 barrels of bourbon per day, utilizing grains sourced from within 50 miles of the Finger Lakes region.
The Bespoke Bourbon Cream produced by Black Button has achieved international recognition, including a gold award at the Concours International de Lyon. The distillery’s commitment to local sourcing underscores its dedication to quality and community engagement.
Senator Charles E. Schumer previously intervened to assist Black Button with delays in approval for a new barrel storage warehouse, which had hindered hiring and production efforts. The support from the community and local government reflects the distillery’s significance to the region.
The partnership with Blackstar Company not only saves Black Button Distilling from financial distress but also ensures that the rich legacy of bourbon production in New York continues, along with the jobs that sustain local livelihoods.
FAQ
What is Black Button Distilling?
Black Button Distilling is the largest bourbon distillery in New York, founded in 2012. It produces a variety of spirits including bourbon, Empire Rye whiskey, vodka, gin, and Bespoke Bourbon Cream.
Who invested in Black Button Distilling?
The investment came from Blackstar Company, a newly-formed investment group led by industry veterans Kris Comstock and Ray Franklin. This partnership aims to support the distillery’s continued operations.
Will employees retain their jobs after the investment?
Yes, all nine full-time staff members currently employed at Black Button Distilling will retain their positions following the investment.
What are the long-term plans for Black Button Distilling?
Jason Barrett and his team will continue to manage daily operations, while receiving additional strategic support from Blackstar Company as they assess future business moves.
What awards has Black Button Distilling received?
Black Button’s Bespoke Bourbon Cream has received international recognition, including a gold award at the Concours International de Lyon.
Key Features of Black Button Distilling
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Founded | 2012 |
| Location | Rochester, NY |
| Main Products | Bourbon, Empire Rye whiskey, vodka, gin, Bespoke Bourbon Cream |
| Employees | 9 full-time staff members |
| Awards | Gold award at Concours International de Lyon |
| New Facility Size | 28,000 square feet |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- Democrat and Chronicle
- Wikipedia: Bourbon
- WHEC
- Google Search: Black Button Distilling
- 13WHAM
- Google Scholar: Black Button Distilling
- The Whiskey Wash
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Distillery
- The Spirits Business
- Google News: Black Button Distilling
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