When Black Button Distillery announced it was closing, Rochester rallied. The outpouring of support was nothing short of remarkable. From packed tasting rooms to bustling farmers markets to cleared shelves at local liquor stores, people showed just how much Black Button means to this community.

A few weeks later, longtime friend and spirits industry expert Kris Comstock (yes, the Kris Comstock) found a solution. Together with his partners at Blackstar Company, he offered an investment that would keep Barrett and his team in place while securing Black Button’s future. Thanks to this partnership, the distillery will now continue to produce and sell its award-winning lineup of spirits, including New York Grown bourbon, Empire Rye whiskey, vodka, gin, and Bespoke Bourbon Cream.

While the tasting room remains closed for now, you can find Black Button at farmers markets every weekend, and the beloved Bourbon Cream will soon return to shelves across the region. 

This Rochester-style comeback stands as a testament to resilience, partnership, and the enduring passion for craft. With Blackstar’s support and the community’s unwavering spirit, Black Button is ready for its next chapter. A chapter that is possible because of the people of Rochester.