Killington Distillery Expansion Plan Moves Forward
The expansion aims to boost production and tourism appeal, with the new building featuring a ~10,000-square-foot production area and ~5,000-square-foot restaurant space.
KILLINGTON, Vt. — The proposed expansion of Killington Distillery, a popular craft spirits producer at the base of Killington Resort, has taken a key step forward after receiving a favorable review from the Rutland Regional Planning Commission (RRPC).
The project, which includes a new 15,000-square-foot facility with distilling operations, warehousing, a 200-seat restaurant, and employee housing, aligns with regional development goals despite lingering concerns over traffic impacts.At the RRPC's Board of Commissioners meeting on July 15, 2025, members discussed the application's implications for local infrastructure and community growth.
While acknowledging potential traffic challenges on Route 4—a busy corridor known for high crash rates—the board noted that a traffic study indicated manageable conditions. They voted to support the project, concluding it has no significant regional impact and complies with the Rutland Regional Plan.
This endorsement marks progress since the initial site plan and Planned Unit Development (PUD) application was submitted to the Town of Killington in early 2025.
Owned by KB22 LLC and operated by developers Jack and Carolyn Wise, the distillery—also known as Still on the Mountain—has been a fixture since opening in 2020. It specializes in small-batch spirits like maple bourbon, gin, vodka, and limited-release whiskeys, using local Vermont ingredients.
The expansion aims to boost production and tourism appeal, with the new building featuring a ~10,000-square-foot production area and ~5,000-square-foot restaurant space. Additional elements include eight two-bedroom workforce housing units, 85 parking spaces (surpassing the required 67), a new driveway access to Route 4, on-site water and sewer systems, stormwater management, and native landscaping for a 50-foot buffer.
The project is phased, with this initial stage targeting groundbreaking in summer 2025 and completion by summer 2026. A future hotel component would require separate approvals and is not part of the current application.Local reviews began earlier this year.
The Town of Killington's Development Review Board (DRB) held hearings on February 20 and March 20, 2025, where discussions focused on environmental compliance, utilities, and site design. No major opposition emerged, though public input highlighted issues like well capacity, wastewater, and outdoor lighting.
State-level permits are still pending, including Act 250 for environmental impacts, water supply, wastewater, stormwater, wetlands, and a Vermont Agency of Transportation (VTrans) permit for the Route 4 access.Proponents argue the expansion will create jobs, support local agriculture through ingredient sourcing, and enhance Killington's year-round attractions, complementing the resort's ski and outdoor activities.
The distillery already draws visitors for its craft cocktails, full menu, and events like weddings, with positive reviews on platforms like Tripadvisor praising its ambiance and offerings.
However, traffic remains a focal point. The RRPC formally noted concerns in their recommendation, urging ongoing monitoring at the Route 4 and Route 100 intersection. Traffic projections account for restaurant operations and production, but critics worry about increased volume in a high-risk area.
As of July 21, 2025, the project awaits final town and state approvals. If greenlit, it could solidify Killington Distillery's role in Vermont's craft beverage scene, following in the footsteps of its early acclaim for spirits like Maple Cask Bourbon and Woodland Gin.