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HVADC Client: Klocke Estate

Sep 6, 2024

Distilling success: HVADC supports the launch of Klocke Estate

When John Frishkopf decided to establish a soil-to-glass distillery in the Hudson Valley, he recognized the need for guidance and support from the local agribusiness community to bring his ambitious vision to life.


Thanks to an ongoing partnership with Hudson Valley Agribusiness Development Corporation (HVADC), Frishkopf opened Klocke Estate on a breathtaking hillside in Claverack this summer. More than a distillery, Klocke Estate is a luxury destination where visitors can savor the rich bounty of the Hudson Valley.


The 160-acre property features a 12,000-square foot distillery and hospitality venue and 60 acres of sustainably farmed vineyards, apple orchards, and botanical gardens. It is a testament to the region’s thriving agricultural and tourism industries.


Invaluable Advice. Critical Connections.

“I was introduced to HVADC in 2017, as we began our search for the right location for Klocke Estate,” says Frishkopf. “[HVADC’s] Todd Erling and Mary Ann Johnson are highly respected in the agricultural and entrepreneurial ecosystem of the region, and they provided invaluable advice and mentoring throughout the start-up process.”


One of Frishkopf’s first challenges was finding the ideal property for the farm and distillery. HVADC connected him with Cornell Cooperative Extension, which evaluated the soils on potential sites and guided Frishkopf in selecting a location suitable for apple orchards and grapevines. Klocke Estate now sits atop a hill in Claverack, New York, with sweeping sunset views of the Catskills — a perfect setting for a brandy distillery that celebrates its Hudson Valley roots.


However, HVADC’s support went beyond site selection. “HVADC guided us in applying for three separate New York State grants and incentives,” says Frishkopf. “That included a $400,000 incentive from Empire State Development, a $125,000 grant from ESD, and a $275,000 Market NY grant. They also provided a $100,000 loan to assist with critical equipment purchases.” These financial resources were essential to Klocke’s development, enabling the construction of world-class production and hospitality facilities.


The Long View of Success

Mary Ann Johnson, HVADC’s Executive Director, recalls how HVADC worked with Frishkopf to connect him with the right resources. “We introduced John to local players in the craft beverage scene and key economic development contacts. We also helped assess the land and align his project with local farming capabilities. It’s been incredible to see the vision for Klocke Estate come to life.”


Klocke Estate has thrived despite the significant challenges of establishing a regenerative organic fruit farm and hospitality business. This includes overcoming pest pressures and delays related to COVID-19. Frishkopf attributes much of the success to perseverance and the talented team he assembled. As the estate continues to mature, both in terms of its spirits and its business, Frishkopf is excited for the future.


“We take a long view of decades, which is needed to produce the finest brandies,” he says. “HVADC has been a trusted advisor, and we see that continuing as Klocke Estate grows and implements more sustainable agriculture technologies.”


Klocke Estate’s success shows how collaboration between local entrepreneurs and organizations like HVADC can help create thriving businesses that contribute to the Hudson Valley’s economy and agricultural community. Frishkopf advises other agribusinesses looking to follow a similar path: “Listen to HVADC and other experts in the sector — they’ve seen it all and can give excellent guidance to help you avoid pitfalls and take advantage of opportunities.”


With the support of HVADC and a clear commitment to excellence, Klocke Estate is poised to become a leader in luxury American brandy and sustainable agriculture, providing visitors with an exceptional farm-to-glass experience in the heart of the Hudson Valley.


To learn more about how HVADC can help food entrepreneurs through its Agriculture Loan Fund, visit https://www.hvadc.org/loans-and-grants-english.

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