No need to whisper, no secret knock or password. The word is out, a modern day speakeasy is coming in the spring of 2022 and Mark Chiancone and Evan Favaro of Speakeasy Motors American Whiskey Company are making it happen on the site of Baldwin Vineyards.

The pair met on the set of Orange County Choppers. Favaro has owned Speakeasy Motors in Wallkill for ten years where he specializes in custom fabrication for motorcycles as well as a wide range of cars. A few years ago, his attention turned to distilling whiskey and Chiancone is a full-time distiller.

The Pine Bush Area Chamber of Commerce held a mixer last month at long-time member Baldwin Vineyards with Chiancone and Favaro on hand to give a guided tour with a question and answer session as well as a whiskey tasting for attendees.

Chamber president, Brenda Otto said, “I’m excited to welcome this new business into the community. It brings back history and a unique concept.”

“This building was most recently used for storage,” said Favaro, “But it was a goat barn about 40 years ago. We have a 1,000 liter propane fired copper still and we make whiskeys, rye, brandy, and bourbon. Our products are in over 70 liquor stores including Valley Supreme Liquors in Pine Bush.”

Chicancone added, “This space will be more of an experience, a destination, but not a restaurant.”

“We will probably be offering 3 – 5 craft style cocktails, likely some will be seasonal. This is all more than just a brand for me, it’s a lifestyle,” explained Favaro.

Inside the speakeasy space are beautiful details that are reflective of the décor during prohibition right down to a working player piano.

“We have about 80 rolls and one of them is, ‘Yes, We Have no Bananas,’ but we need to have the instrument tuned,” said Chiancone.

Outside, the hope is to host live music when the weather permits with plenty of outdoor seating.

“The idea to offer some entertainment with a beautiful location will bring additional tourism to our community,” added Otto. “It’s wonderful to see these businesses work together in ventures that enhance their sustainability and future growth.”