Photo credit: Cotton & Reed, Kings County Distillery, Catoctin Creek Distillery, Windon Distilling Company
The American Craft Spirits Association (ACSA) exists to elevate and advocate for the community of craft spirits producers. Its newest initiative, the Certified Craft Seal, helps producers clearly communicate their authenticity and independence to consumers. The Certified Craft Seal represents a standard defined and upheld by craft distillers themselves, ensuring that what beats the mark truly meets the industry’s own definition of craft. The seal isn’t just a symbol; it’s a statement that you’re part of a community committed to transparency, quality, and integrity.
Here’s what every craft producer should know before applying.
1. It’s a Mark of Authenticity
The ACSA Certified Craft Seal distinguishes true craft spirits from mass‑market brands. When consumers see the seal, they know the spirit inside was made by an independent distillery that meets ACSA’s definition of craft.
2. It’s Free for Eligible Members
Current ACSA members who meet the Certified Craft criteria can use the seal at no additional cost, just complete the license agreement and confirm eligibility.
3. It Builds Consumer Trust
Utilizing the seal signals integrity and independence, helping consumers feel immediately confident that their purchase supports small producers committed to quality. It also helps retailers and customers easily identify authentic, independently produced spirits, serving as a powerful tool for visibility and trust on the shelf.
4. It Strengthens Your Brand Story
Displaying the seal on your packaging, website, and tasting‑room materials reinforces your commitment to authenticity and craftsmanship, values that resonate deeply with today’s spirits consumers. For consumers, the seal is a guarantee that the spirit was made by a producer on-site by an independent producer committed to transparency and quality.
5. It’s Easy to Apply
You can use the seal across bottle labels and/or as stickers on the bottles, marketing materials, social media, and tasting‑room signage. The ACSA User Guide outlines specifications to ensure consistent, professional use.
Embody the Craft Spirit Movement
The ACSA Certified Craft Seal is more than a design element; it’s a shared badge of honor for independent distillers who embody the craft spirit movement. Distilleries already proudly using the seal include King’s County Distillery, Catoctin Creek Distillery, Windon Distilling Company, and Cotton & Reed. By displaying it, you champion a national network of producers who champion transparency, authenticity, and community.
Learn more and apply for your seal at americancraftspirits.org/programs/acsa-seal.