Indianapolis-based craft whiskey distillery West Fork Whiskey is breaking ground on the primary phase of its 35,000 square-foot agritourism facility in Westfield, Indiana. The $10 million-plus, 12-plus-acre development is located on the northeast corner of 191st Street and Horton Road across from Grand Park Sports Campus and will soon become one of the largest agritourism experiences in Indiana.
“We see this expansion as an opportunity to invite Indiana residents and visitors to experience a taste of Indiana whiskey, and to continue changing the perception of our state as a leading whiskey producer,” said Blake Jones, co-owner of West Fork, in a press release. “We look forward to joining the Westfield community and bringing together people from near and far for memorable shared experiences over our approachable craft whiskey.”
Nearly a year in the making, the expansion will feature a 5,000 square-foot event space, retail store, a 4,000 square-foot restaurant with a cocktail lounge, a speakeasy, additional production and aging space, and more. The restaurant will focus heavily on Indiana ingredients and will primarily offer seasonal menu items native to Indiana. The new family friendly facility will also offer interactive tours, tastings and other educational components.
“It’s truly an exciting day for the state of Indiana and the city of Westfield as we break ground on West Fork Whiskey’s new facility,” said Governor Eric J. Holcomb. “Agritourism is a vital part of Indiana’s economy, contributing to a sector that provides more than $31 billion annually to our state, and it’s developments like this that continue making Indiana the best place to work, live, play and stay.”
“Grand Park sees more than 2.5 million visits a year,” said Westfield Mayor Andy Cook. “West Fork offers a unique experience and opportunity for our residents and visitors. I am thrilled we will have this partnership in our community.”
The Indiana Economic Development Corporation (IEDC) offered West Fork Whiskey Co. up to $450,000 in conditional tax credits based on the company’s job creation plans. These tax credits are performance-based, meaning the company is eligible to claim incentives once Hoosiers are hired. Holladay Properties a full-scale land development, design/build, fully integrated real estate company, and one of the largest property management firms in the country, is the development partner for the project, which includes potential future phases to include outdoor spaces.