History

Fifth State Distillery was founded by the Schulten family in Bridgeport, Connecticut. According to the website, it is the first licensed distillery in Bridgeport since Prohibition. The family runs the distillery and maintains a farm-to-bottle integrity. Located at 259 Asylum Street, Bridgeport, the distillery was opened by Rob Schulten and the family in 2015. They produce gin, vodka, whiskey, and specialty spirits, and the spirits they make reflect the infectious spirit of the early Connecticut distilleries. Over the years, Connecticut, and especially agriculture, have contributed to the ingredients and aromas, and Fifth State supports local farming networks and sustainable land management.

Production / Manufacturing

Fifth State Distillery crafts handcrafted small-batch spirits (Handcrafted Small Batch Spirits) and bases its alcohol on corn grown in Connecticut. The whiskey is made from 100% CT corn and distilled and aged in new American oak barrels. The gin is produced with a vapor infusion of botanicals, yielding a sharp and clean flavor. The distillery was designed and built by Rob Schulten and uses a combination of copper and stainless steel equipment. They place emphasis on farm-to-bottle and collaborate with neighboring farmers, with third- and fourth-generation farmers contributing to the selection of corn and botanicals — with a focus on sustainable land management and crop rotation.

Products / Whiskey Range

In addition to gin and vodka, Fifth State Distillery also produces whiskey and specialty spirits. Their whiskey is made from 100% Connecticut corn and aged in new American oak barrels to achieve a creamy mouthfeel. Two specific whiskey variants are mentioned: Barrel Strength and CT Maple. Barrel Strength is described as a stronger variant, where the bottle's finish is shaped through treated barrels; CT Maple adds a touch of real Connecticut maple syrup and provides a light smoky note. Both variants are made from 100% CT corn and are produced in small batches.

Visits / Experiences

Fifth State values visitors and offers tastings and tours. Tastings and visits are available by appointment. One-hour tastings with the option for small or large private tours can be arranged by contacting Bridget (bridget@fifthstatedistillery.com, 203-258-3422). Large groups can have private tours and tastings (up to about 20 people). The Visit page encourages booking a tour.

Philosophy

Fifth State Distillery focuses on honesty, craftsmanship, and the promotion of locally produced products. The company emphasizes the farm-to-bottle philosophy, where they select corn and botanicals from Connecticut, collaborate with 3rd- and 4th-generation farmers, and employ sustainable land management through crop rotation. Gin, vodka, and whiskey are produced in small batches and require high standards in all processes, from fermentation to bottle distribution.