History

Lost Republic Distilling Co. was founded in 2013 by Colin Harter and Matthew Weese in Sonoma County, California. Their vision was to create California’s craft whiskey – “California’s craft brown water” – and to deliver California’s highest quality of spirits. The brand describes itself as American craft, California spirit, and small-batch production.

A part of the story is the bear movement around the historical Bear Flag from June 1846, where 33 California settlers raised the California Republic and declared independence. This story is used as a tribute to the spirit of the “lost republic” and as part of the brand’s narrative of resilience, free thinking, and independence.

Production and Manufacturing

Master Distiller Matt Weese, formerly a winemaker from Dry Creek Valley, focuses on the distillation and blending processes. His attention to detail during the blending process gives the whiskey complexity and depth. Premium air-dried oak barrels are chosen instead of more common casks, which yields higher quality and character. With larger copper pot stills, production can maintain craft quality and consistency.

Products and Whisky Series

Straight Bourbon Whiskey

• 91 proof | 36 months in the barrel (barrel aged)
• 75% corn | 21% rye | 4% barley
• Aromatic profile: Strong notes of toasted oak and apple with hints of lemon zest and spices
• Taste: Biscuit, cherry, banana and white pepper from the grain, complemented by crème brûlée and caramel from the barrel
• Mouthfeel: Smooth warmth that lingers

Straight Rye Whiskey

• 90 proof | 36 months in the barrel
• 95% rye | 5% barley
• Aromatic profile: Tobacco, grapefruit, raspberry, cloves, toffee and ginger
• Taste: Cherry with a spectrum of black, red and white pepper
• Mouthfeel: Starts with pepper and ends soft and smooth

Cask Strength Bourbon

• 116 proof | 36 months in the barrel
• 75% corn | 21% rye | 4% barley
• A single-barrel experience, where each barrel provides unique balance and intensity
• Aromatic profile: Lemon, lavender, cherry, hibiscus, cinnamon, and tea notes
• Taste: Creme brulee, vanilla, caramel, and biscuit
• Mouthfeel: Smooth warmth that lingers

Cask Strength Rye

• 116 proof | 40 months in the barrel
• 95% rye | 5% barley
• A single-barrel edition with concentrated grain and barrel flavors
• Aromatic profile: Tobacco, cloves, toffee and grapefruit notes
• Taste: White and black pepper with a finish of raspberry and light cherry
• Mouthfeel: Strong pepper sensation and heavy finish

Cocktails and Uses

Their website features a range of cocktail recipes that show how Lost Republic whiskey expresses itself in mixed drinks. Some of the recipes include: - Lost Republic Distiller’s Wife - Lost Republic Whiskey Sour - Lost Republic Boulevardier - Lost Republic Manhattan - Lost Republic Rye Hot Toddy - and several classics such as Old Fashion, Sazerac, and Frisco

Brand and Distribution

The brand markets itself as American craft with California spirit and small-batch production. They provide information about a range of online retailers and a number of retail partners as well as wholesale/distribution in several states. There is a store locator tool and information about online retailers and distributors for California, Idaho, Iowa, Nevada, North Carolina, Texas and Wyoming.

Philosophy and Identity

Lost Republic focuses on craft and a detailed approach to the distillation and aging processes. The use of air-dried oak barrels highlights the desire for quality and unique character in each glass. The name and story draw on a resurrected spirit – “American Craft. California Spirited. Small Batch Produced.” – and a wish to honor the Bear Flag era as part of the brand’s identity.