In the realm of distilled spirits, few names can claim as deep-rooted an American legacy as Laird and Company. Renowned for their apple brandy, Laird and Company hold the distinction of being the oldest licensed distillery in the United States, intertwining their brand's history with the very fabric of America's cultural and commercial tapestry.
Early Beginnings
The story of Laird and Company began in 1698 when William Laird, a Scotsman, settled in Monmouth County, New Jersey. Recognising the abundance of apple orchards in the region, the Laird family applied their knowledge of distillation, a craft honed in Scotland, to produce apple brandy. This apple brandy, or "Applejack" as it became known, quickly gained popularity, laying the foundation for a commercial enterprise that would span centuries.
Revolutionary Ties
The company's historical significance is further elevated by its connections to the American Revolutionary War. It's well-documented that the Laird family provided Applejack to George Washington's troops to boost morale during the harsh winter at Valley Forge. Washington, himself an avid fan of the spirit, even sought the Laird family's apple brandy recipe for his distillery in Mount Vernon.
Growth and Expansion
Over the decades, as America grew, so did Laird and Company. The family business continued to refine and expand its offerings, ensuring that the quality of their apple brandy remained consistently high. As demand grew, so did the scale of their operations. By the 19th century, the company had established itself as a leader in the production of apple spirits, with their products finding markets not only in the U.S. but also overseas.
Prohibition and Resilience
The Prohibition era posed a significant challenge to many distilleries, and Laird and Company was no exception. However, their resilience shone during these testing times. Recognising the medicinal properties and benefits of apple brandy, the company obtained a special license to produce Applejack for "medicinal purposes." This allowed them to weather the storm of Prohibition and emerge even stronger when it was repealed.
Modern Day Excellence
Today, Laird and Company stands as a testament to the value of tradition, craftsmanship, and family legacy. While the company has expanded its product range to include a variety of spirits, apple brandy remains its crown jewel. Employing a blend of traditional techniques and modern technology, the company ensures that every bottle of Laird's Applejack or Apple Brandy echoes the quality and taste that made it famous centuries ago.
A significant factor in the unique flavour profile of their apple brandies is the careful selection of apple varieties. Over the years, Laird and Company have cultivated relationships with apple growers, ensuring a consistent supply of the highest quality fruit.In the vast and varied landscape of American spirits, Laird and Company occupies a unique space. Their commitment to quality, tradition, and innovation has ensured their apple brandies remain sought after, preserving a taste that's authentically American.
While many distilleries boast of heritage and legacy, few can claim a lineage as intertwined with American history as Laird and Company. From aiding revolutionaries to navigating the challenges of Prohibition and evolving in modern times, their journey is emblematic of the American spirit – resilient, innovative, and timeless.
For those who wish to taste a piece of genuine American heritage, a glass of Laird's apple brandy offers not just a delightful sensory experience but also a sip of history, a blend of the old world's craftsmanship with the new world's pioneering spirit.