Episode 28 - Glenn Green

What do biochemistry, the Whiskey Rebellion, and Moose Pie have in common? They're all part of the story behind Bones Distillery in downtown Washington, Pennsylvania. In Episode 28 of the WashCo Insider, host Chase McClain sits down with owner and operator Glenn Green, an Army veteran, entrepreneur, and self-described business biochemist who has turned his passion for science into a unique craft distilling experience. From creating unconventional flavors and perfecting his signature Moose Pie to navigating the challenges of entrepreneurship, Glenn shares how Bones Distillery came to life, what makes his approach to distilling different, and how he's helping carry Washington County's rich spirits-making tradition into the future.

The Science Behind the Spirits: Discover Bones Distillery in Washington, PA

From handcrafted spirits and creative cocktails to a signature product called Moose Pie, Glenn Green is bringing a unique approach to craft distilling in downtown Washington, Pennsylvania.

Washington County, Pennsylvania, has a storied relationship with whiskey. From the historic Whiskey Rebellion of the 1790s to today's growing community of craft distilleries, the region continues to celebrate its place in American distilling history.

At Bones Distillery, located on West Maiden Street in downtown Washington, owner and operator Glenn Green is putting his own spin on that tradition. Combining a background in biochemistry with an entrepreneurial spirit and a passion for developing unique flavors, Green has created a destination where science, history, and creativity come together.

In Episode 28 of the WashCo Insider, host Chase McClain of the Washington County Tourism Promotion Agency sits down with Green to explore the story behind Bones Distillery, the challenges of opening a small business, and the innovative products that keep customers coming back.

From Biochemist to Craft Distiller

Glenn Green's path to owning a distillery was anything but conventional.

An Army veteran with experience in analytical chemistry, biodiesel production, construction, and industrial facility development, Green spent much of his professional career designing and building complex production operations.

His experience with industrial distillation eventually provided the foundation for a new entrepreneurial venture.

After experimenting with spirits production and exploring potential business locations, Green discovered an opportunity in downtown Washington. The former home of Liberty Pole Spirits on West Maiden Street was available, offering an established location for a new chapter in the area's distilling tradition.

Within days of touring the building, Green signed a lease and began transforming the property into Bones Distillery.

Drawing on his experience in construction and mechanics, he personally completed much of the renovation work and even designed his own custom still, affectionately named "Moose."

Where Science Meets the Art of Distilling

What sets Bones Distillery apart from many traditional craft distilleries is Green's scientific approach to producing spirits.

Rather than relying exclusively on conventional distilling techniques, Green applies principles of analytical chemistry to monitor fermentation, temperature, alcohol concentration, and other variables throughout production.

That attention to detail carries into the development of new flavors.

Green approaches flavor creation like a food chemist, studying the components that make familiar foods, fruits, and candies taste the way they do. He then works to recreate those flavor profiles in his spirits.

The result is an extensive and constantly evolving collection of products, ranging from traditional vodka, rum, and whiskey to more unconventional creations inspired by cotton candy, bubblegum, root beer, and black licorice.

For visitors interested in learning how craft spirits are made, a conversation with Green offers a fascinating look at the science behind the bottle.

Meet Moose Pie: The Signature Spirit of Bones Distillery

Among the many products developed at Bones Distillery, one has become a clear customer favorite: Moose Pie.

This signature rum combines flavor notes reminiscent of apple pie and pumpkin pie, using a blend of 12 herbs, spices, and fruits, with apple juice providing sweetness.

According to Green, Moose Pie has become the distillery's most popular product and a major contributor to the business's success.

Other distinctive offerings include fruit brandies, creative flavored rums, and seasonal spirits that showcase Green's willingness to experiment with unexpected ingredients.

Whether visitors prefer traditional spirits or something entirely different, Bones Distillery offers an opportunity to explore flavors they might not encounter elsewhere.

A Unique Cocktail Experience in Downtown Washington

Bones Distillery is more than a place to purchase locally produced spirits.

The West Maiden Street location features a comfortable retail lounge, a dedicated tasting and cocktail bar, and an inviting atmosphere where guests can relax and learn more about the products.

One of its most distinctive features is a cocktail menu that changes completely with the seasons.

Green develops new drink combinations throughout the year, giving returning visitors something different to discover each time they stop in.

The distillery has also hosted Friday live acoustic music, tastings, and community events, adding another experience to downtown Washington's dining and nightlife scene.

For those looking for unique things to do in Washington, PA, Bones Distillery offers an interesting combination of local craftsmanship, creative cocktails, and personal interaction with the distiller himself.

Continuing Washington County's Whiskey Rebellion Legacy

The history of whiskey in Washington County runs deep.

During the Whiskey Rebellion of the 1790s, western Pennsylvania farmers and distillers challenged the federal government's whiskey excise tax, making the region an important part of early American history.

Today, visitors can explore that heritage through attractions such as the Bradford House Museum and the Whiskey Rebellion Education and Visitor Center in downtown Washington.

At Bones Distillery, Green helps connect that history to the present day through his production of traditional-style clear corn and rye whiskeys.

These spirits offer visitors a glimpse into the types of unaged whiskey associated with the region's early distilling traditions.

For travelers interested in Pennsylvania whiskey history, Bones Distillery adds a contemporary experience to a visit exploring Washington County's historic attractions.

Growing a Small Business and Supporting Downtown Washington

Beyond the spirits themselves, Green's story is one of entrepreneurship, perseverance, and community involvement.

Opening Bones Distillery required navigating licensing, regulatory approvals, product development, and extensive renovations. Green also discovered that developing and approving labels for his many unique recipes could be one of the most time-consuming parts of launching the business.

Since opening, he has continued developing new products, including a line of ready-to-drink cocktails.

The initial lineup includes Southbound, a strawberry lemonade cocktail; Sun Chaser, featuring tropical flavors; and Daydrifter, a refreshing cucumber melon creation.

Green is also exploring additional distribution opportunities and the possibility of expanding to other retail locations in the future.

Meanwhile, his involvement in downtown events and collaborations with neighboring businesses reflects his commitment to the continued growth of Washington's business community.

Discover Bones Distillery on the WashCo Insider

From its roots in chemistry to its signature Moose Pie and creative cocktail experiences, Bones Distillery is another example of the entrepreneurial energy shaping Washington County's tourism industry.

For Glenn Green, the business is about more than producing spirits. It's about sharing his passion, connecting with customers, and creating something distinctive in downtown Washington.

Watch or listen to Episode 28 of the WashCo Insider as Chase McClain goes behind the scenes with Glenn Green to explore the science, creativity, and entrepreneurial journey behind Bones Distillery.

Planning a visit to Washington County? Add Bones Distillery to your list of places to discover in downtown Washington, Pennsylvania.