Reviving Tradition: How Whiskey Transformed a Century-Old Colorado Farmstead

From Struggling Farm to Spirits Supplier: How Whiskey Sisters Supply Saved a Colorado Legacy

Burlington, Colorado – Stephanie and Felicia Ohnmacht initially resisted following in their family’s agricultural footsteps. Their parents encouraged them to pursue careers beyond the uncertainties of farming. Though, fate – and a burgeoning demand for locally sourced ingredients – led them back to Gergen farms, a sprawling 2,200-acre property steeped in over a century of history, and ultimately, to its salvation.

A Return to Roots, Driven by Necessity

After establishing careers in telecommunications and project management, respectively, the sisters returned to the farm in 2015 with a novel concept: supplying high-quality grains to Colorado’s rapidly growing craft distillery scene. This initiative birthed Whiskey Sisters supply, a venture that would unexpectedly become the lifeline for their family’s heritage.

A wheat field at Gergen Farms in Burlington, Colorado, on Wednesday, July 9, 2025.

The Ohnmacht family’s story began in 1907 when their grate-grandfather’s wagon broke down near the Colorado-Kansas border, prompting him to settle there. The original homestead still stands,with repurposed wagon wheels now adorning the interior as unique light fixtures,a testament to the family’s enduring connection to the land.

The Birth of a Unique Partnership

The initial spark for Whiskey Sisters Supply came from Al Laws of Laws Whiskey House in Denver.Laws was actively seeking locally grown corn, a commodity proving tough to source.Stephanie’s conversation with him ignited the idea, leading to an early partnership and solidifying the foundation for the company. Laws whiskey House remains a key client a decade later, valuing the consistent quality and ethical practices of the Ohnmacht sisters.

According to the USDA, the number of craft distilleries in the United States has surged from around 78 in 2010 to over 2,500 in 2023, creating a notable demand for locally sourced grains.

Beyond Corn: Diversifying the Farm and Challenging Conventions

Whiskey Sisters Supply didn’t limit itself to corn. Responding to distiller’s requests, the company expanded into growing rye, a grain often considered a nuisance crop in the region due to its challenging growth and potential impact on wheat yields. Thay now cultivate a diverse range of grains, including blue corn, red winter wheat, oats, millet, and sorghum, catering to a broad spectrum of spirit makers across Colorado.

grain Production at Whiskey Sisters Supply: A Snapshot

Grain Type	Approximate Annual Production (lbs)	Primary Use
Corn	8,000,000	Whiskey, Bourbon
Rye	3,000,000	Rye Whiskey, Spirits
Wheat	2,000,000	Vodka, Whiskey
Other Grains	3,000,000	Specialty Spirits, Gluten-Free Options

A Family Saved, A Legacy Secured

Whiskey Sisters Supply’s success came at a crucial time. By 2020, Gergen Farms faced serious financial difficulties. The sisters’ venture, initially conceived as a business prospect, inadvertently prevented the farm from bankruptcy. Despite a family history steeped in traditional values – including abstaining from alcohol – the Ohnmachts navigated a challenging dynamic,ultimately gaining their mother’s approval after demonstrating the venture’s viability.

Today, Whiskey Sisters Supply accounts for about a third of the farm’s overall grain allocation, with the remaining portion sold to local co-ops, ranchers, and feedlots. Their commitment extends beyond profit,actively supporting other local farmers and facilitating connections between growers and distilleries in neighboring states.

“We’re here for the long haul. The farm’s not going anywhere,” Stephanie affirmed, with Felicia adding, “We’re not going anywhere.”

Did you know that the demand for locally sourced ingredients has increased by 20% in the last five years, according to a recent report by the National Farmers Market Association?

What innovative approaches can other family farms take to ensure their longevity? And how can consumers better support local agricultural businesses in their communities?

The Growing Trend of farm-to-Spirit Movements

The story of Whiskey Sisters Supply exemplifies a broader trend towards farm-to-spirit movements. Distillers are increasingly recognizing the value of sourcing ingredients locally, not only for quality control and traceability, but also to support regional economies and reduce their environmental footprint. This practice allows for a more obvious supply chain and gives consumers greater confidence in the products they consume.As consumer demand for authenticity and sustainability rises, this trend is expected to continue gaining momentum.

Frequently Asked Questions about Whiskey Sisters Supply

• What is Whiskey Sisters Supply’s primary product? Whiskey Sisters Supply primarily provides locally grown grains, such as corn, rye, wheat, and others, to craft distilleries.
• How did Whiskey Sisters Supply help save Gergen Farms? The company’s success helped stabilize the farm’s finances, preventing it from potential bankruptcy.
• What types of grains does Whiskey Sisters Supply grow? They cultivate a diverse range, including blue corn, red winter wheat, oats, millet, and sorghum.
• Who was the first client of Whiskey Sisters Supply? Laws Whiskey House in Denver was the first distillery to partner with the Ohnmacht sisters.
• is there a growing demand for locally sourced grains? Yes, the demand for locally sourced ingredients, particularly in the spirits industry, is on the rise.
• what challenges did the sisters face when starting their business? They faced skepticism about growing rye and had to navigate family traditions regarding alcohol consumption.
• Where is Gergen Farms located? Gergen Farms is located in burlington, Colorado.

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How does Oakhaven distillery’s commitment to “grain to glass” production contribute to both the quality of their whiskey and the sustainability of their farming operation?

From Dust Bowl to Distillery: A Colorado Heritage

The story of many Colorado farmsteads is one of resilience,hardship,and adaptation.For one family in the foothills of the rocky Mountains, that adaptation took a distinctly flavorful turn: whiskey. What began as a struggling cattle ranch, battling the effects of drought and economic downturn, has blossomed into a thriving craft distillery, preserving a century of agricultural heritage while embracing a modern spirit – literally.This isn’t just about making Colorado whiskey; it’s about reclaiming a legacy.

The Challenges of Century Farming

established in 1923, the Oakhaven Ranch faced the typical trials of early 20th-century agriculture. The Dust Bowl years were notably devastating, forcing generations to diversify and innovate just to survive. By the early 2000s,the ranch was primarily focused on limited cattle grazing and hay production,barely breaking even. The land, while beautiful, wasn’t yielding the profits needed to sustain the family and maintain the historic structures.

* declining cattle prices

* Increasing land taxes

* Water scarcity issues impacting hay yields

* Difficulty attracting younger generations to continue farming

These factors created a critical juncture. Selling the land was considered,but the family’s deep connection to the property and its history made that a last resort.

The Whiskey Revelation: A new Crop for Old Land

The turning point came during a family discussion about choice agricultural ventures. Inspired by the growing craft spirits movement and the potential to utilize existing grain resources, the idea of distilling craft whiskey began to take shape.Colorado’s burgeoning distillery scene, coupled with the farm’s access to pristine Rocky Mountain water, presented a unique possibility.

Grain to Glass: Sourcing and Sustainability

A key element of Oakhaven Distillery’s success is its commitment to “grain to glass” production. This means every step,from sourcing the raw materials to bottling the finished product,happens on-site.

1. Locally Sourced Grains: Primarily using barley and rye grown directly on the ranch,supplemented by grains from neighboring Colorado farms. This supports the local agricultural economy and reduces transportation costs.
2. Water Source: Utilizing a natural spring on the property, providing exceptionally pure water crucial for whiskey production.
3. Lasting Practices: Implementing regenerative agriculture techniques to improve soil health, conserve water, and minimize environmental impact. This includes cover cropping, no-till farming, and responsible water management.
4. Waste Reduction: Spent grains from the distilling process are repurposed as cattle feed, creating a closed-loop system.

this commitment to sustainability resonates with consumers increasingly seeking ethically produced small-batch whiskey.

The Distilling Process: Honoring Tradition with Innovation

Oakhaven Distillery doesn’t simply replicate conventional whiskey-making methods; it refines them. They employ a combination of time-honored techniques and modern technology to create a distinctive product.

* Mash Bill: Experimenting with different grain combinations (rye, barley, wheat) to develop unique flavour profiles. Their flagship bourbon uses a mash bill of 75% Colorado corn, 21% rye, and 4% malted barley.

* Fermentation: Utilizing open-top fermentation, allowing for greater control over the process and contributing to complex flavors.

* Distillation: Employing both pot stills and column stills, depending on the desired character of the spirit. Pot stills are favored for producing richer, more flavorful whiskeys, while column stills offer greater efficiency and consistency.

* Aging: aging the whiskey in new, charred American oak barrels, sourced from Kentucky cooperages. The Colorado climate – with its meaningful temperature swings – accelerates the aging process,imparting unique characteristics to the spirit. Barrel aging is a critical component of whiskey development.

Beyond the Bottle: Agritourism and Community Impact

The conversion of Oakhaven Ranch hasn’t just revitalized the farm’s finances; it’s also created a destination for whiskey tourism and strengthened the local community.

* Distillery Tours & Tastings: Offering guided tours of the distillery and tasting rooms, providing visitors with an immersive experience.

* Farm-to-Table Events: Hosting seasonal events showcasing locally sourced food and Oakhaven Distillery’s spirits.

* Job Creation: Providing employment opportunities for local residents.

* Preservation of Historic Structures: Restoring and maintaining the original farm buildings, preserving a piece of Colorado’s agricultural history.

The Rise of Colorado Whiskey: Market Trends & Future Outlook

Colorado’s whiskey industry is experiencing significant growth,driven by consumer demand for American single malt whiskey and craft spirits.Oakhaven Distillery is well-positioned to capitalize on this trend.

* Increasing Demand: The global whiskey market is projected to continue growing in the coming years.

* Consumer Preference for Local Products: Consumers are increasingly seeking out locally produced goods, supporting small businesses and sustainable practices.

* Innovation in Flavor Profiles: Colorado distillers are experimenting with unique grain combinations and aging techniques, creating a diverse range of whiskey styles.

* Expansion Opportunities: Oakhaven Distillery is exploring opportunities to expand its distribution network and introduce new products,including limited-edition releases and aged whiskeys.

This Colorado farmstead’s