Tucked away on 325 wooded acres in Brown County, Indiana sits one of America’s most buzzed-about new whiskey destinations: Hard Truth Distilling Co.
Founded in 2015 and named the No. 1 Destination Distillery in the U.S., Hard Truth has quickly become a mecca for whiskey lovers and adventure seekers alike. What began in the cozy upstairs of a pizza joint is now a sprawling, state-of-the-art facility producing some of the country’s most unique and award-winning spirits.
And yet, despite its national accolades, the Hard Truth story has a deeply local twist — one that winds its way right here to Lakewood Ranch.
Ed & Flo: From Indiana Roots to Florida Living
Ed Ryan, Hard Truth’s Owner and Co-Founder, and his wife Flo have called Lakewood Ranch home for the past five years. “We fell in love with this community,” says Flo. “It has that rare blend of warmth, beauty, and connection — it just feels like the kind of place where you want to build relationships, not just live.”
The Ryans split their time between the sunshine and the stills, with regular trips back to Indiana to stay hands-on at the distillery.
Crafted with Care — And Character
Hard Truth is best known for its Sweet Mash whiskeys, a rare and labor-intensive approach that sets them apart from the crowd. Unlike the more common sour mash process, sweet mashing starts fresh each time — with new grains, fresh yeast, and pristine water — resulting in a more expressive and nuanced flavor profile.
The distillery’s first grain-to-glass release hit shelves in 2021 and quickly made waves, landing on Fred Minnick’s coveted Top 50 American Whiskeys list. Since then, Master Distiller Bryan Smith has expanded the lineup to include award-winning Ryes and Bourbons, as well as fan favorites like Toasted Coconut Rum and its decadent cousin, Toasted Coconut Rum Cream.
Not Just a Distillery — A Destination
Visitors to the Brown County location can enjoy more than just world-class whiskey. The distillery has become a full-blown experience, complete with tastings, off-road ATV adventures, live music, and scenic hiking trails winding through the hills of southern Indiana.
Sharing the Spirit in the Sunshine State
In 2024, they proudly featured Hard Truth at the Lakewood City Lifestyle Men’s Event, where guests enjoyed a taste of Indiana hospitality in every glass.
And they’ll be back for more: the upcoming Men’s Event — Tech & Tailored Tastes: An Evening of Innovation & Indulgence on June 14th will once again showcase Hard Truth’s award-winning whiskeys.
Where to Find It
Now available at select retailers across Florida, Hard Truth invites you to raise a glass to bold flavor, deep roots, and a spirit of adventure.
Sip boldly. Live fully. And discover the Hard Truth for yourself.