How New Tariffs Will Affect Still Manufacturing: What Craft Distillers Need to Know

The world of distillation is always evolving. Whether you're making whiskey, rum, or gin, one thing’s for sure: the equipment you rely on is essential to your craft. But in recent times, there’s something new that could be impacting how you make your spirits, and that is tariffs.

Tariffs, especially those impacting materials like steel, copper, and aluminum, have a big impact on distillery equipment manufacturing. If you're in the market for a custom still or other distillery equipment, the costs you see now might not be the same in a few months. But don’t worry—we’ve got you covered with all the details about how these tariffs could affect still manufacturing and what you can do about it.

What Are Tariffs and Why Do They Matter for Distilleries?

Let’s start with the basics. A tariff is essentially a tax on imports and exports between countries. When a country imposes tariffs on another country’s goods, the price of those goods goes up. In this case, the U.S. government has implemented tariffs on various metals, including steel and aluminum, which directly impact manufacturers who rely on these materials to build their stills and other distilling equipment.

For distillers, the materials that make up your still, copper, stainless steel, aluminum, are some of the most important components of your equipment. If the price of these materials goes up, the price of your still could also rise. But it's not just about cost, it’s about the availability of these materials too. A shortage or delay in supply could lead to production delays, which could affect your timelines and ultimately your ability to get the equipment you need when you need it.

How Tariffs Will Affect Still Manufacturing Costs

Here’s where it gets interesting. The price of steel and copper has already seen some fluctuation due to tariffs, and it’s expected to continue rising. If you’re a distiller looking to upgrade your still, expand your distillery, or simply get a new piece of equipment, you could feel the pinch.

• Copper: Copper is a key material for distilling because of its ability to remove sulfur compounds and improve the flavor of your spirits. But with new tariffs on copper imports, the cost of raw copper has been steadily rising. This means that custom stills made with copper, like the ones Fine Lyne creates, may see price increases, too.

• Stainless Steel: Stainless steel is another essential material in still manufacturing, especially for the body of the still and other structural components. With tariffs on steel, manufacturers will face higher costs, which will ultimately be passed along to the consumer. If you’re buying a stainless steel still, be prepared for potential price hikes.

• Aluminum: Though less common in the actual distillation process, aluminum is still used in some still components, as well as in packaging and storage equipment. With the tariffs affecting aluminum as well, it could result in an overall increase in the cost of some ancillary equipment.

How Tariffs Impact Your Distillery Equipment Timeline

It’s not just about cost. Tariffs can also affect the availability of key materials. With delays in the import of materials like copper and steel, manufacturers can face longer lead times. That means the timeline for receiving your still could stretch out longer than expected.

For a distillery owner or operator, this is a big deal. Distillation doesn’t wait for tariffs to be sorted out—your business needs to operate. If you’re in the middle of a new project, launching a new product, or upgrading your operation, a delay in getting the right equipment can be frustrating.

What Can Distillers Do About It?

As a craft distiller, there’s a lot you can do to navigate these tariff changes and ensure you’re still getting the equipment you need without breaking the bank.

1. Order Ahead of Time
   If you’re planning on upgrading or expanding your distillery, consider placing your orders sooner rather than later. The sooner you order, the better your chances of avoiding price increases or delays. Work with your manufacturer to understand how tariffs are affecting timelines and costs.

2. Consider Alternative Materials
   If you’re looking to save on costs, consider working with your still manufacturer to explore alternatives to copper or stainless steel for certain components. While copper still plays a critical role in creating high-quality spirits, there may be ways to adjust other aspects of your still to reduce costs without sacrificing quality.

3. Look for Local Manufacturers
   Some manufacturers are sourcing more materials locally to avoid tariffs on imports. While a local supplier might not always have the same options as an international one, it could be worth considering, especially if it means a faster timeline or fewer price hikes.

4. Factor Tariffs Into Your Budget
   While tariffs are out of your control, you can plan ahead for the potential cost increases. If you’re budgeting for new equipment, account for potential price hikes so you’re not caught off guard. Keep communication open with your manufacturer about any changes to their pricing structure.

5. Invest in Long-Term Equipment
   If you’re going to invest in new distillery equipment, make sure you’re thinking about the long term. Custom stills designed for longevity and efficiency will ultimately save you money in the long run, especially as prices for raw materials increase. A well-built still is an investment that’ll serve you well for years to come.

Conclusion: Adapt to the Changes

Tariffs are a reality in the world of manufacturing, and while they’ll undoubtedly affect the price and timeline of still production, there are ways to manage it. As a craft distiller, the key is to stay informed and proactive. Ordering early, considering alternatives, and working closely with manufacturers can help you minimize the impact of tariffs on your business.

At Fine Lyne, we’re committed to helping distillers navigate these changes and continue producing the finest stills possible. While tariffs might change the cost of materials, we remain focused on delivering high-quality, custom-built stills that help bring your craft to life.

Cheers!