Del Lago casino to sell local distillery's signature spirits under new partnership

Smokin' Tails Distillery in Phelps is owned by Chris and Lisa Orlando and Sharon and Peter Cheney, who had a memorable appearance on the Discovery Channel TV show, "Moonshiners."
Smokin' Tails Distillery in Phelps is owned by Chris and Lisa Orlando and Sharon and Peter Cheney, who had a memorable appearance on the Discovery Channel TV show, "Moonshiners."

Smokin’ Tails Distillery, the Phelps-based moonshine and other spirits producer, is gambling on this partnership.

Guests of the del Lago Resort & Casino can purchase Smokin’ Tails spirits at Galleria del Lago, the casino resort’s onsite boutique. In addition to its signature, flavored moonshine — including Sinister Cinnamon, Apple Pie and Razzberry Bush — the distillery also produces bourbon whisky, rye and cream-based blends called Sippin’ Creams.

In addition to carrying products, del Lago has plans to collaborate on future events with the distiller. Fred Brooks, del Lago’s beverage director, said in a statement that visitors have inspired the idea.

“We keep a pulse on what our guests are saying about their experience here, and we received great feedback about Smokin’ Tails products,” Brooks stated. “Working together was also a natural fit, and we’re excited to help elevate this local-favorite brand.”

Del Lago
Del Lago

Smokin’ Tails Master Distiller Peter Cheney, who opened the distillery in 2021 with his wife, Sharon, and their friends, Chris and Lisa Orlando, appeared on the Discovery Channel’s “Moonshiners: Master Distillers” in 2020. Cheney also is a funeral director, earning him the nickname, “The Undertaker.”

Special events are in the works for 2024, and guests are encouraged to keep an eye on del Lago’s website at dellagoresort.com or Smokin’ Tails Distillery’s website at smokintails.com.

This article originally appeared on Rochester Democrat and Chronicle: Del Lago Resort and Casino partners with Smokin' Tails Distillery