True to maine

Keith Bodine

I’ve been working in the alcohol industry since 1992, and earned my MS in Food Science and Enology from the University of California, Davis. Throughout my career, my focus has always been on crafting spirits with character, balance, and a strong sense of place.

After a devastating fire on September 15th 2025, and the difficult decision to permanently close our Sweetgrass Winery & Distillery locations in Union and Portland, I chose to carry forward with what matters most to me: Back River Gin. Rather than rebuilding, I’m continuing the brand by distilling Back River Gin in partnership with another trusted Maine distillery.

Back River Gin remains proudly Maine-made, using the same recipe, standards, and care it has always had. This new chapter is one of resilience, collaboration, and optimism. I’m grateful to continue sharing this gin with the people who have supported it from the beginning.

— Keith Bodine