The story of Barr Hill begins in 2011 with a beekeeper and distiller working together in one of the most beautiful agricultural regions on Earth - the Northeast Kingdom of Vermont.
Todd, a lifelong beekeeper, had been caring for bee hives across Vermont and the world. Ryan, a fermentation enthusiast, had previously founded a home brewing supply store in his hometown of Plainfield, Vermont.

Distilling with a single 15-gallon direct-fire copper still, Ryan and Todd sent their gin to the New York and Hong Kong International Spirits Competitions, where it won Double Gold and Best Gin of the Year, respectively - the two highest honors.