A Journey Down the Whiskey Trail
Old Dominick Distillery
Nestled in the heart of downtown Memphis, Tennessee, you’ll find Old Dominick Distillery, where Southern charm meets modern flair. This isn’t just a distillery; it’s a revival of a family legacy that has been part of Memphis for over a century. Let’s dive into the story of Old Dominick, where history, quality, and community come together in a swirl of good spirits.
A Journey Through Time – The Canale Story
Old Dominick’s roots trace back to the late 1800s with Domenico Canale, an Italian immigrant who arrived in Memphis. At sixteen, Domenico traveled from Mississippi to work for his uncle, running a fruit cart. In 1866, he launched D. Canale & Co., quickly becoming a Memphis staple, offering everything from fresh produce to top-notch wines and spirits sold in ceramic jars and bottles. Domenico’s dedication to quality made his creations household favorites. In 1919, just before the ratification of the 18th Amendment and the onset of Prohibition, Domenico passed away at 75.
In 1920, Prohibition forced the distillery to close, but the Canale family persevered. In 1921, Domenico’s oldest son, John Dominick Canale, set out to become the region’s largest grocery distributor, covering areas from Chicago to the Gulf of Mexico and from Atlanta to the Indian Territory. By the time Prohibition ended in 1933, D. Canale and Company had established the largest refrigerated warehouses in Memphis, attracting Anheuser-Busch’s attention and securing exclusive regional distribution rights for their beers.
Bringing Back the Magic
Fast forward to 2013, when Domenico’s great-great-grandsons, Alex and Chris Canale Jr., discovered an unopened bottle of Old Dominick Toddy from the late 1800s. They decided to revive the family tradition. In 2016, 150 years after the original company was founded, Old Dominick Distillery reopened, bringing history full circle. The following year, they produced their first batch of Tennessee Whiskey, making it the first time since Prohibition that whiskey was distilled in Memphis.
Today, the distillery is a blend of old and new, housed in a beautifully restored historic building with state-of-the-art equipment. Old Dominick uses contemporary techniques while honoring traditional methods, shining through in everything they do, from crafting spirits to creating a memorable visitor experience.
Bringing in Alex Castle
A crucial part of this modern revival was Alex Castle, Old Dominick’s Master Distiller and Senior Vice President. Alex brought a wealth of knowledge, experience, and a refreshing perspective to the distillery. Her innovative approach and dedication to quality were instrumental in shaping Old Dominick’s distinct character. Under Alex’s guidance, Old Dominick has pushed the envelope with new flavors and experimental batches. In 2024, Castle announced she would be leaving Old Dominick to return home to Kentucky. A few months later she would announce that she was the new Master Distiller for Augusta Distillery.
Craftsmanship with a Twist
Old Dominick crafts high-quality spirits like bourbon, vodka, and gin, paying meticulous attention to detail and using local ingredients whenever possible. Their signature product, Memphis Toddy, nods to Domenico Canale’s original recipe, blending whiskey, citrus, and spices for a true Southern delight.
The Heart of the Community
Old Dominick isn’t just a place to make spirits; it’s a community hub. They offer guided tours and tastings, sharing the history and craftsmanship behind each product. The rooftop bar, with stunning views of the Mississippi River and Memphis skyline, is the perfect spot to enjoy a handcrafted cocktail and soak in the city’s vibrant energy.
They’re also dedicated to supporting the local community, hosting events like live music and charity fundraisers, and partnering with local businesses and artisans, helping to keep the spirit of Memphis alive and thriving.
Cheers to the Future
As Old Dominick continues to grow, they stay true to their mission of honoring the past while embracing the future. With a commitment to quality, a passion for innovation, and a deep love for their community, Old Dominick is set to make a lasting impact on the spirits industry and the city of Memphis for years to come.
In a world where traditions can easily get lost, Old Dominick Distillery stands out as a place where heritage and innovation come together to create something truly special. Whether you’re a spirits enthusiast or just curious, a visit to Old Dominick Distillery promises a journey through time, taste, and the rich history of Memphis.
LET’S START A CONVERSATION!
Have you had the opportunity to experience Old Dominick? Have you been to their Distillery? What did you think? I would love to know your thoughts, so comment below. You know I love conversation and will reply to you. As always, I want to thank you so much for taking the time to read this. Until the next Whiskey Wednesday, if you’re going to enjoy a little smoke & oak, just remember, “Life’s too short, enjoy the good stuff…” and do it responsibly!
Note: All images sourced from Instagram: @olddominick
Charles Ruth