From Barrel to Auction: The Closing Chapter of Two Minneapolis Distilleries
The closures of Lawless Distilling and Royal Foundry Craft Spirits mark the end of an era in Minneapolis's craft spirits scene. Both distilleries, known for their unique contributions to local culture and spirit innovation, left behind a legacy through their high-quality distillery equipment, which was sold through auctions. This blog delves into the final auctions of these establishments, offering insights into the types of equipment available and the legacy they leave behind.
Lawless Distilling's Legacy
Once a beacon of craft and innovation in South Minneapolis, Lawless Distilling closed its doors after nearly a decade. Known for their seasonal cocktails and their Holiday-themed 'Miracle at Lawless' pop-up, they were an essential part of the community. The auction of their assets provided a rare opportunity to acquire well-maintained equipment such as whiskey distillery setups and Italian Mori-temp bottle fillers. Highlighted items from their auction included:
- Wooden whiskey barrels that fetched prices between $29 to $120
- Various bar and restaurant fixtures that were part of Lawless's unique cocktail experience.
- The highest selling item was a Mitsubishi propane forklift, which sold for $3,250, underscoring the operational backbone of the distillery.
Royal Foundry Craft Spirits: A British Touch
Royal Foundry Craft Spirits infused Minneapolis with British-inspired spirits, distinguishing itself with its approach to craft distilling. A large facility with around 15,000 square feet, the location featured a large cocktail room and gaming area. It also served as an event space. The auction featured items like custom-made Artisan Still Design stills and Letina stainless steel tanks, reflecting their commitment to quality and tradition. Notable sales included:
- Large stainless steel tanks and custom stills that attracted significant bids, underscoring the high value of well-maintained distillery equipment.
- Outdoor patio sets and bar furnishings also highlighted the comprehensive nature of the auction, fetching upwards of $1,900 for complete sets.
- In addition to the high-end distilling equipment, Royal Foundry Craft Spirits' auction also featured a range of recreational items that contributed to its distinctive British-themed entertainment space. The auction included a lawn bowling set, shuffleboard items, a dart board, and a pickleball net, reflecting the distillery’s commitment to creating a dynamic social environment.
Images of some of the distilling equipment sold at the auctions.
Auction Insights
These auctions not only highlighted the specialized equipment used in distilling but also offered a glimpse into the operational aspects of running a distillery. From essential production equipment to the ambiance-enhancing furniture, each piece tells a story of the distilleries' past operations and their meticulous approach to craft distilling. From stainless steel tanks that fetched prices between $2,000 to $2,750, to custom stills from Artisan Still Design selling for up to $2,000, and comprehensive outdoor patio sets, the offerings catered to a wide range of needs and budgets. Other notable items included:
- A 2500L stainless steel tank that sold for $2,750.
- A Transfer pump unit that sold for $1,400.
- Bar and restaurant equipment like tables, chairs, glassware, and appliances made up a significant portion of the lots. Metal frame tables with wood tops and matching metal chairs were common. Bulk lots of bar supplies, kitchen wares, and decorative items that bring both functionality and style to any venue.
Continuing the Craft: The Enduring Influence of Distillery Auctions
The auctions of Lawless Distilling and Royal Foundry Craft Spirits offer more than just a chance to purchase high-quality distillery equipment; they provide an opportunity to own a piece of Minneapolis's distilling history. For enthusiasts and professionals alike, these auctions serve as a testament to the city's rich craft spirit culture and the inevitable transitions within the industry. Whether looking to start a new venture or expand an existing one, the legacy equipment from these renowned distilleries promises to continue influencing the craft spirits world for years to come.