OUR STORY
THE HISTORY OF OUTLAW DISTILLERY
THE FOUNDATION PHASE
Outlaw Distillery was born in the rugged spirit of Utah’s craft scene, founded in January 2015 by a diesel mechanic with a passion for distillation. Starting with less than $90,000 in personal funds Outlaw Distillery transformed a modest 2,500-square-foot facility in Midvale, Utah, into a hub for small-batch spirits. While awaiting permits Outlaw built their own distilling equipment, embodying the Outlaw ethos of self-reliance and innovation. From the outset, the focus was on grain-to-glass production, sourcing local Utah grains hand-delivered by farmers, and crafting premium whiskeys, rums, and moonshines with meticulous care to remove impurities for a cleaner, sweeter taste.
THE GROWTH PHASE
In October 2020, as the world was emerging from the pandemic, Tyler Halstead—a former finance and entertainment executive—acquired the distillery. Through a unique partnership with the founder, that included on-going mentorship and continued involvement in the business, Outlaw Distillery entered a phase of unprecedented growth.
Despite Utah’s unique challenges, the early years were marked by organic growth and a commitment to quality over quantity. Outlaw’s eclectic lineup—from spiced rums to award-winning bourbons—quickly gained a loyal following. By emphasizing local ingredients and in-house processes (milling grains, filtering water, fermenting, and distilling), Outlaw stood out in a market often dominated by bulk-purchased spirits masquerading as craft.
Under Tyler’s leadership, production surged fivefold, new customer acquisition hit 70%, the business overall doubled, and distribution expanded beyond Utah state lines. Tyler’s vision amplified Outlaw’s underdog story, proving that world-class spirits could thrive in Utah while highlighting the state’s burgeoning craft scene.
THE EXPANSION PHASE – ARIZONA AND BEYOND
In June 2025, Outlaw Distillery acquired Tempe-based Adventurous Stills, a fellow grain-to-glass pioneer founded in 2016, marking a strategic expansion from its Utah roots into Arizona. This move allowed Outlaw to integrate the Arizona operations into its portfolio, effectively rebranding the site while preserving key products, creating a multi-state operation with enhanced production capacity, and offering a full cocktail bar for direct consumer experiences.While Utah offered a great environment for making whiskey, Arizona’s favorable liquor laws, dynamic market, and deep appreciation for craft beverage culture has Outlaw Distillery poised for a fresh wave of community engagement, local partnerships, and regional expansion—now with expanded capacity and a broader distribution footprint.
Today, Outlaw Distillery products can be found in Utah, Arizona, and California with products shipping to 42 states online.
With facilities in both Utah and Arizona, Outlaw Distillery continues to handcraft spirits for adventurers, dreamers, and rebels—using the finest local grains, real hands, and time-tested skill. Every bottle tells a story of perseverance, quality, and the wild pursuit of extraordinary flavor. Life’s too short for ordinary drinks; join the Outlaw revolution.
ABOUT OUTLAW
We handcraft premium spirits for adventurers, dreamers, and everyday rebels—because life's too short to drink bad spirits.
