Unraveling the Enigma of a Countryside Moonshine Hideout
In the rustic landscapes of rural New York, distilleries have become the latest trend. Yet, nestled within this trend lies a hidden gem that dates back to the era of Prohibition.
Venture about 30 miles north of Poughkeepsie, and you’ll find yourself on Ryan Road, a tranquil path flanked by sprawling farmlands. Here, discreetly tucked away, is a gravelly driveway leading to an intriguing destination.
At the culmination of this path sits a sizable, seemingly new barn, where visitors lounge outside on picnic tables, indulging in cocktails, pizza, and s’mores. Inside this barn lies a modern marvel—a state-of-the-art distillery, complete with a bar and a cozy tasting room.
Yet, strip away the convivial atmosphere of picnickers and food trucks, and what remains is a snapshot of history. This distillery, nestled in Pine Plains, harkens back to the days of Prohibition when it operated covertly as one of New York State’s foremost producers of moonshine.
The demise of this clandestine operation came abruptly in October 1932, when federal agents raided the premises. As reported by a local paper of that time, the distillery at Ryan Farm was deemed one of the most elaborate setups ever discovered in the region.
Fast forward to present-day, and this intriguing locale, revitalized for contemporary explorers, reemerges as Dutch’s Spirits. This transformation mirrors a broader trend sparked by Governor Andrew M. Cuomo’s Craft New York Act of 2014, which relaxed regulations for farm distilleries. Today, boasting over 100 craft distilleries statewide, New York stands as a formidable contender in the spirits arena, second only to California.
Many of these farm distilleries have adapted to the times, offering pandemic-friendly outdoor seating with rustic charm. Among them, Dutch’s Spirits stands out not only for its historical allure but also for its unconventional beginnings. Its signature spirit, moonshine, pays homage to its checkered past, enticing visitors with tales of its gangster-infused history.
Beneath the surface lies a labyrinth of bunkers and tunnels, once serving as storage and escape routes. Brendan McAlpine, the current proprietor, intends to unveil these hidden passages to curious adventurers. Legend has it that during the 1930s raid, only two individuals were apprehended, while others purportedly slipped away through the clandestine tunnel network.
The moniker “Dutch’s Spirits” pays homage to Dutch Schultz, the infamous gangster and bootlegger believed to have masterminded the underground moonshine operation. However, local lore paints a more nuanced picture, suggesting a collaboration between Schultz and Patrick Ryan, the owner of the turkey farm that served as a front for the distillery.
For visitors like Stacey Demar, stumbling upon Dutch’s Spirits is akin to unearthing a piece of history. From Instagram discovery to a firsthand encounter with gangster lore, the distillery’s allure transcends generations.
Schultz’s foray into bootlegging was emblematic of the Prohibition era’s lawless spirit, catapulting him into notoriety as the Bronx beer baron. Alongside his rival, Jack (Legs) Diamond, Schultz established a formidable presence in the Catskills and Hudson Valley, perpetuating myths of buried treasures and clandestine operations.
While Schultz’s ties to Pine Plains remain speculative, his legacy looms large over the region’s storied past. Historians debate his exact role in the distillery’s operations, with some attributing its success to Schultz’s strategic prowess.
The narrative intertwines with local folklore, weaving tales of clandestine meetings and hidden treasures. Yet, amidst the intrigue, one fact remains certain—the enduring legacy of Dutch’s Spirits stands as a testament to resilience and reinvention.
From the illicit moonshine of yesteryears to the artisanal spirits of today, Dutch’s Spirits embodies the spirit of innovation, blending history with contemporary craftsmanship. As visitors traverse its storied halls, they embark on a journey through time, where each sip of moonshine whispers tales of bygone eras and enduring legacies.