The name comes from Northern California’s Redwood Empire. In 2013, founder Derek Benham saw potential in the region’s cool, temperate climate—perfect for aging whiskey slowly and evenly. Two years later, they broke distillery ground in the small town of Graton, nestled in the Russian River Valley and surrounded by redwoods. With Master Distiller Jeff Duckhorn at the helm, they began crafting their first barrels while also traveling cross-country to source mature whiskey to complement their own distillate.