Brooklyn has had its share of distilleries.  Sometimes, too many.  In 1869, the IRS commandeered 2000 soldiers and marched into Brooklyn, intent on destroying dozens of non-tax-paying distilleries.  For several months, the whiskey wars raged, with distillers rebuilding as fast as they were torn down.  It’s fascinating history, and brings a certain rebellious pride to the presence of New York City’s oldest whiskey makers – Kings County Distillery.

Because of Prohibition and the resulting legal prejudices, it took one hell of a bandwagon to soften New York City’s alcohol laws. Kings County Distillery was the first to benefit.