American Distilling sits on East Hampton’s main drag in a converted industrial building that’s been home to this craft spirits operation since 2014. Founded by Nick Babcock, a former IT professional who traded keyboards for copper stills, the distillery represents Connecticut’s growing craft spirits scene in a state better known for insurance than whiskey. The 3,000-square-foot facility houses a 500-gallon copper still from Portugal alongside several smaller units, producing vodka, gin, rum, and whiskey that’s slowly building a local following. Babcock’s journey into distilling started as a home hobby that got serious when he realized Connecticut had room for more craft spirits producers. He spent two years navigating state regulations and convincing East Hampton officials that a distillery could work in their small town. The result is a no-frills operation where Babcock handles everything from mashing to bottling, often working alone in the space that smells like fermenting grain and copper polish. His background shows in the methodical approach to production and the detailed records he keeps of every batch. Visitors find a working distillery first and tourist destination second. The tasting room feels more like stepping into someone’s workshop than a polished visitor center, which works for people who want to see actual production rather than just hear about it. You can watch Babcock work the stills during production days, and he’s usually around to explain why he chose specific grain bills or aging techniques. The space doesn’t try to be something it isn’t, making it appealing for spirits enthusiasts who appreciate the craft without needing fancy packaging.