History

Origins

Swilled Dog was founded in 2016 and began as a small-batch cider company that grew to become one of West Virginia's leading craft beverage brands. The history describes a journey from cider to bourbons, whiskeys and gin, driven by a strong passion for local craftsmanship and community. Lucy Pickles is named as the company's CFO and face, and the brand emphasizes Lucy's Legacy as part of its mission. The producer highlights West Virginia craftsmanship, passion and pride, the use of non-GMO corn from local farmers and barrels of American white oak from West Virginia Great Barrel Company. The mission includes supporting animal-related charitable causes and rescue activities through partnerships and donations.

Production / Manufacturing

Swilled Dog produces in small batches and prioritizes local ingredients. The corn is non-GMO and bourbons are aged in American white oak barrels. The brand works with various finishes and maturities tailored to the region, including barrel finish and additional aging on-site. Adoption Series and Innovation Series are central to the company's philosophy, and a portion of sales goes to animal charities and to Pilots to the Rescue. The distillery is located in Upper Tract, and experiences such as guided tastings and visits are part of the brand's offerings.

Products / Whisky series

Swilled Dog's portfolio includes several bourbons and ryes, including the Adoption Series which supports animal charities and rescue missions. Straight Bourbon Whiskey - Barrel Strength is a high-proof edition with multiple medals. The WVU Collection includes Lets Go as the official WVU bourbon at 99 proof. The 1863 Collection includes WV Gold, Take Me Home II and The Place I Belong as well as WV Gold II and Take Me Home II, with accompanying collector editions such as the 1863 Collection Box and the 1863 Gift Set. Old Gold & Blue is a Maple Syrup Cask finish with a limited number of bottles. The Innovation Series consists of Sherry Cask Finished Bourbon and Double Oaked Bourbon as well as Double Oaked Rye Whiskey. Take Me Home II is a blended straight bourbon at 102 proof. In addition to bourbons, Mon Forest Reserve Dry Gin is produced as part of the spirit collections. Barrel Strength Gift Set and 1863 Collection Box are premium collector editions.

Visits / Experiences

Swilled Dog offers visits in Upper Tract, WV at 28 Industrial Park Road, Upper Tract, WV 26866. The tasting room is open Wednesday to Sunday with guided tastings of whiskey, bourbon and gin. Live music, tours and events are arranged, and the place is dog-friendly. Visitors can book a 20-minute tasting for up to four guests, and for larger groups the experience can be tailored through info@swilleddog.com. The visit often includes the opportunity for cocktails and charcuterie as well as a chance to learn the history behind Lucy Pickles and the individual pours.

Philosophy

Swilled Dog is built on a strong West Virginian identity and Mountaineer culture. As the Official Bourbon of WVU Athletics, the brand has taken on a broader mission and further expanded its animal-welfare philanthropy through Adoption Series and partnerships with Pilots to the Rescue. Lucy Pickles is a central figure as CFO and a symbol of the company's dedication to Lucy's Legacy. The company emphasizes locally produced ingredients, sustainability and non-GMO corn, as well as barrels of American white oak from West Virginia Great Barrel Company. The mission includes giving back to the community and to animals in need.