Food & Drink
How You Can Own a Piece of Olympia’s Rich History
Olympia Distilling launches equity crowdfunding campaign to expand distribution
By Rob Smith April 9, 2025
If the term “It’s the water, and a lot more” means anything to you, here a chance to own part of local history.
Olympia Distilling Co. has launched an equity crowdfunding campaign for the public to invest in what it calls “the next chapter of the Olympia story.” Funds raised through the campaign will help expand distribution, scale production, add employees and perhaps even launch a line of ready-to-drink cocktails.
The Tumwater-based former Olympia Brewery, founded in 1896, closed in 2003 and is now privately owned. Olympia Distilling Co. (formerly known as Shoebox Spirits) rebranded in 2018 after signing a licensing agreement with Pabst Brewing Co. to produce Olympia Vodka (Pabst acquired the brewery in 1999). The new company, also based in Tumwater, became operational five years ago.
And yes, the artesian water — made famous in Olympia beer commercials in the 1970s — remains a selling point for Olympia Distilling Co.
“We’re often asked what makes our vodka so smooth,” says 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.”
The former Olympia Brewery is currently being restored by the city of Tumwater.
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