Keuka Lake Distilleries Win Big at International Spirits Competition
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Keuka Lake Distilleries Win Big at International Spirits Competition
Three Local Distilleries Win Big at International Spirits Competition and Launch Collaborative Visitor Experience
Keuka Lake, NY — 7/9/2025 — The craft distilling community along Keuka Lake has a lot to celebrate. Three local distilleries—Antler Run Distilling, Black Sheep Distillery, and Krooked Tusker Distillery—collectively brought home 15 medals at the 2025 Finger Lakes International Spirits Competition, which is the strongest showing by any regional group of distilleries entered in this year’s competition.
The competition, which welcomed entries from 11 U.S. States, Canada, and Mexico, highlights excellence in distilling from across North America. This year, the spotlight shined brightly on the Finger Lakes:
- Black Sheep Distillery earned Best of Class, along with a Silver and a Bronze medal.
- Krooked Tusker Distillery also took home Best of Class, plus two Silver medals.
- Antler Run Distilling was awarded six Silver medals and three Bronze medals.
The combined success of these Keuka Lake distilleries highlights the Finger Lakes' growing reputation as a hub for world-class craft spirits, further cementing their place on the map as a destination for top-tier distilling.
More Than Medals: Supporting Camp Good Days
Beyond recognition, the Finger Lakes International Spirits Competition supports Camp Good Days, a nonprofit dedicated to improving the lives of children and families affected by cancer. Each spirit submitted contributes to this important mission, combining craftsmanship with compassion.
“We’re honored by the recognition, but the real win is knowing this helps kids facing the fight of their lives,” said Carlton Reeves, Krooked Tusker, speaking on behalf of the three distilleries.
Introducing the “Spirit of Keuka” Trail
To celebrate this shared success and invite visitors to experience the best of local distilling, Antler Run, Black Sheep, and Krooked Tusker are proud to launch the “Spirit of Keuka” Trail.
Guests who visit all three award-winning distilleries and collect a stamp at each will receive a complimentary gift—perfect for commemorating their journey through the Finger Lakes’ finest spirits.
“This trail is about community, collaboration, and giving people a reason to explore what makes Keuka Lake special,” said James Quade, Antler Run Distilling. “It’s a toast to craftsmanship and connection.”
Founded in 1979, Camp Good Days and Special Times provides year-round support and free camping programs for children with cancer and other life-threatening illnesses. Based in the Finger Lakes region, it serves families throughout New York and beyond.
- Antler Run Distilling (Penn Yan) is known for bold small-batch spirits including their signature cherry-infused expressions and award-winning whiskeys.
- Black Sheep Distillery (Bath) crafts premium, handcrafted spirits with a focus on smoothness and traditional techniques.
- Krooked Tusker Distillery (Hammondsport) offers a wide variety of inventive spirits in a laid-back lakeside atmosphere, blending fun with flavor.
Each distillery invites you to stop in, raise a glass, and experience the best of Keuka Lake’s distilling scene.
Media Contact:
James Quade
385-222-8789
jquade@antlerrundistilling.com
