May 21—Olympia Artesian Vodka is far from a typical vodka, according to a news release from Olympia Distilling Co.
It’s a smooth, refined spirit with a story that stretches back more than a century — one rooted in Tumwater, where German immigrant Leopold Schmidt founded the iconic Olympia Brewing Company in 1896, the release states.
While brewing operations ceased nearly two decades ago, Olympia Distilling Co. now carries the name forward in the distilled spirits category under a licensing agreement with Pabst Brewing Company.
Today, Olympia Distilling Co. blends that legacy with modern innovation, producing vodka that has been recognized as award-winning in regional, national and international spirits competitions, the release stated.
Through a new equity crowdfunding campaign on StartEngine, the public has an opportunity to invest in the next chapter of Olympia’s story.
Funds raised through this StartEngine campaign are intended to be used toward efforts to expand distribution, scale production, grow the team and potentially launch a future line of ready-to-drink cocktails.
“This isn’t just an investment in a product — it’s an investment in a legacy, and a mission that’s bigger than us,” said co-owner Ray Watson.
Olympia Artesian Vodka has gained popularity across the region and is now available in over 300 retail locations in Washington — including Safeway, Albertsons, Total Wine & More and Grocery Outlet — as well as in state liquor stores in Oregon, Montana and Wyoming.
“We’re often asked what makes our vodka so smooth,” said co-owner Lesa Givens. “It really comes down to the artesian water. It’s clean, mineral-rich and naturally perfect for vodka — it’s the foundation of everything we do.”
This mineral-rich water is drawn by hand from a deep well in Tumwater and hauled 3 miles across town in 1,000-gallon batches, forming the foundation of the vodka’s taste, according to the business.
However, Olympia Distilling Co. isn’t just about vodka. Through limited-run products such as Kelsey Gins, the distillery helps fund Kelsey’s New Beginnings, a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing help to cancer patients. It’s made as a tribute to Kelsey Buchanan, who died of cancer. A portion of each bottle of Kelsey Gins sold goes directly to the nonprofit.
For more information, visit www.startengine.com/olympia-vodka.
