Stephen is a retired US Marine currently into Distilled Beverage Production, Supply Chain Management, Logistics, International Operations and International Trade Compliance. He also has his podcast series called “Distillers Basement”. He is also the Master Distiller at Golden Moon Distillery based out of Colorado.

1. How do you ensure consistency in the quality of your bulk spirits?

We have standardized quality control processes that we use across all our products (ours and contract production). We regularly test and track batches to ensure that all products in any format we ship, meet or exceed our quality standards.

2. Can you explain your sourcing and selection process for raw materials used in bulk spirit production?

This depends on what and who the bulk spirit is for. If it's for our use it meets our specifications. If it's for a bulk customer, we will select, and source to ensure quality standards that meet the customer's needs. This includes the ability to source and produce Kosher-certified products as well.

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3. How do you manage the environmental impact of your distillery operations?

We have a company sustainability and environmental impact plan and are in the process of completing our B Corp certification as well.

4. Can you describe any unique or innovative techniques or processes you use in your distillation process?

This depends upon what we're distilling.

For our American Single Malt whiskies, we use a proprietary method of mashing, a choice of our proprietary yeast, a standard "M'' class whiskey yeast or yeast specified by the customer. We can then distill to the customer's standards, including 2X, 2.5X or 3X distillation and adjust cuts based on customer preference for the final spirit profile. We can then mature in a variety of types and styles of casks as required.

5. How do you handle and store your bulk spirits before they are bottled or sold?

Our spirits are either matured in wood casks or stored in beverage-grade stainless tanks. All spirit movement is done using sanitary lines and spirit-grade pumps.

6. How do you stay current with industry trends and changes in regulations that may impact your bulk spirit production and distribution?

We are active in multiple trade organizations. I (Mr. Gould) am on the DISCUS Advisory Board, the board of the American Distilling Institute, the Board of the Colorado Distillers Guild and a member of a dozen or so other related organizations. I handle Gov/Leg Affairs for the distillers of Colorado and am on the DISCUS Gov Affairs Committee.