WOODY CREEK, Colo. – What began as a chance encounter between Mark Kleckner and Hollywood actor William H. Macy quickly evolved into a decade-long friendship and an unexpected business partnership. Kleckner, the co-founder of Woody Creek Distillers, found himself living next to Macy in Woody Creek, Colorado, and discovered their shared interest in spirits. Intrigued, Macy agreed to let Kleckner and his friend Pat Scanlan use his land to grow potatoes for their vodka production. This collaboration marked the beginning of Woody Creek Distillers in 2012.
Woody Creek, nestled a few miles north of Aspen, offered Macy a refuge from the bustle of Los Angeles. The town’s slow pace and close connection to nature resonated with the actor. “It’s not like I have to go running around Hollywood taking meetings,” Macy admitted. Colorado became a second home for Macy and his wife, actress Felicity Huffman, who also had a history with Woody Creek. Macy fell in love with the town as quickly as he fell for Huffman, whom he met in the late 1990s.
The partnership between Macy and Woody Creek Distillers grew stronger over the years. Macy became the “spokesdude” for the distillery and a hands-on participant in its operations. He even helped develop a limited-edition release called the William H. Macy Reserve Straight Rye Whiskey, also known as the “Macy Reserve.” This 10-year bottle-in-bond whiskey features an 80% rye and 20% malted barley mash bill.
Macy’s involvement with the distillery extends beyond product development. He frequently interacts with customers, greeting fans at the distillery or showcasing his ukulele skills for curious drinkers. Macy’s deep knowledge of the distillery, from its equipment to its processes, makes him an impressive tour guide. He even jokes that he wishes the actors’ strike had continued, as it would have given him more time to guide tours.
As Woody Creek Distillers thrives, Macy remains dedicated to creating spirits and whiskies that he and the distillery team genuinely enjoy. The actor believes in the intelligence of the audience, letting the quality of the products speak for themselves. Woody Creek Distillers and Macy’s collaboration exemplify the success that can blossom from an unexpected friendship and shared passion.
Woody Creek Distillers, founded in 2012, found an ally in Hollywood actor William H. Macy when he allowed them to use his land to grow potatoes for their vodka production. The collaboration eventually led to Macy becoming the “spokesdude” for the distillery and participating in the development of a limited-edition release, the William H. Macy Reserve Straight Rye Whiskey. Macy’s deep involvement with Woody Creek Distillers goes beyond marketing and includes interacting with customers and serving as an enthusiastic tour guide. Their partnership showcases the power of friendship and shared passions in the pursuit of creating quality spirits.