Oakley Brothers’ Distillery: Crafting Spirits and Community in Anderson, Indiana

The distillery was founded by Jason and Jerrad Oakley, two brothers who shared a deep passion for craft distilling and fine spirits. The Oakley family has a long history of craftsmanship. This heritage inspired the brothers to create a distillery that celebrated the artistry of spirit-making while highlighting local ingredients.

The idea for Oakley Brothers Distillery took shape when the Oakley brothers decided to turn their shared hobby of distilling into a business. Their vision was simple: to craft spirits that were both high-quality and reflective of Indiana’s agricultural bounty.

Nestled in downtown Anderson on W. 8th Street, Oakley Brothers Distillery occupies a beautifully renovated industrial space. The building itself is a mixture of rustic charm and modern elegance, with exposed brick walls, high ceilings, and sleek finishes that combine to create a warm and inviting ambiance. The interior reflects the Oakley brothers’ passion for craftsmanship, with wood accents, stainless steel distilling equipment, and cozy lighting that create a comfortable yet sophisticated environment.

The main tasting room is a spacious and open area where visitors can sample the distillery’s offerings while enjoying the laid-back atmosphere. The bar is the focal point, where friendly staff pour signature cocktails, craft spirits, and provide detailed information about each product. The room also features tables and seating areas, making it ideal for groups to gather and enjoy a relaxed evening out.

For those who prefer an outdoor experience, Oakley Brothers has large doors that open up on warm weather days and nights to give the vibe that you're on a patio with friends. Additionally, keep an eye out for special events and fun offerings throughout the year. 

At the heart of Oakley Brothers Distillery is a dedication to crafting small-batch spirits with a focus on quality and local ingredients. The distillery produces a variety of spirits, from vodkas and whiskeys to rum and gin, each with a distinct flavor profile that sets it apart from mass-produced products. 

The Oakley brothers pride themselves on using locally sourced grains, and their attention to detail in the distillation process results in spirits that are rich, complex, and full of character.

Signature Spirits:

• Oakley Brothers Bourbon: A rich, full-bodied bourbon that is aged to perfection, Oakley Brothers’ flagship spirit offers notes of caramel, vanilla, and oak with a smooth, warming finish. It’s made using a blend of local Indiana corn, rye, and barley, giving it a true Midwestern flavor. Perfect for sipping neat or in a classic Old Fashioned, this bourbon has earned a loyal following.

• Indiana Rye Whiskey: For fans of spicier, more robust whiskeys, Oakley Brothers' Indiana Rye Whiskey offers a bold profile with a mix of pepper, caramel, and vanilla flavors. Aged in charred oak barrels, this whiskey offers a smooth yet assertive character that stands out when enjoyed neat or in whiskey-based cocktails like a Manhattan or Sazerac.

• Oakley Vodka: Made from locally sourced corn, Oakley Brothers' vodka is distilled multiple times to achieve a pure, smooth taste. Its clean and crisp profile makes it perfect for cocktails, from a classic Martini to a refreshing Moscow Mule.

• Botanical Gin: Oakley Brothers’ gin is infused with a blend of juniper berries, coriander, citrus peel, and a touch of lavender. The result is a well-balanced, aromatic gin that works wonderfully in gin-based cocktails such as a Gin and Tonic or a Negroni.

Limited Editions and Seasonal Releases:

In addition to their core lineup, Oakley Brothers often releases limited-edition spirits and seasonal creations. These special offerings showcase the brothers' creativity and experimentation with flavors, techniques, and unique ingredients. From experimental barrel-aged spirits to limited-run seasonal infusions, these releases keep the tasting experience fresh and exciting for regular visitors.

No visit to Oakley Brothers Distillery would be complete without indulging in their dining menu, which features locally inspired dishes that complement the distillery’s spirits. The food menu is designed with the idea of pairing perfectly with the wide array of cocktails and spirits Oakley Brothers produces.

Popular Menu Items:

• Cheese Curds: Undoubtedly the best fried cheese curds I’ve ever eaten, they're coated in garlic and are crunchy and creamy at the same time. Dip them in ranch dressing or marinara sauce. It’s the app I’ll never not order!

• Margherita Flatbread: For those looking for a classic option, this flatbread is a must-try. It's topped with marinara, mozzarella, tomatoes, and fresh basil as the flavor kicker. It also has Parmesan cheese for a zesty tang. 

• Bruschetta: The classic appetizer on adorable small toasts (aka crostinis)  topped with diced tomatoes and garlic dill butter. Yum.