Second Act Spirits Montgomery County Small Business of the Month

FONDA, N.Y. — Montgomery County is proud to recognize Second Act Spirits, located at 37 Prospect St. in Amsterdam, as June’s Small Business of the Month. Since opening its tasting room in 2024, Second Act Spirits has quickly become a staple in the Amsterdam community.

Owned and operated by Stacey and Rich Michaels, Second Act Spirits is a New York State farm distillery located in the historic Amsterdam Clocktower. As a farm distillery, the business is committed to using New York-sourced ingredients. Supporting local agriculture is essential to the success of farm distilleries like Second Act Spirits. By sourcing ingredients locally, the business ensures high-quality products while contributing to the economic health of the surrounding community.

Among their offerings are Clocktower Bourbon, Dad’s Garden Gin, and the original Second Act Spirits Vodka, along with flavored varieties such as Green Apple and Concord Grape. Their products are now available at numerous restaurants, bars and liquor stores across the region.

The distillery’s tasting room has become more than just a place to enjoy a drink.

The couple regularly hosts community events, including trivia nights, felting workshops, wreath-making classes and wire-wrapped pendant workshops. They also introduced a “Stitch ’n Sip” event, designed to unite local crafters over cocktails.

“We’re incredibly honored to be named Small Business of the Month. We’re so grateful for the support we’ve received from this community, and we’re excited to continue growing our brand right here in the city of Amsterdam,” Rich and Stacey Michaels said.

“Stacey and Rich have built something truly special with Second Act Spirits. It’s more than just a great product — it’s a reflection of their hard work and commitment to our community. Their success speaks to the kind of energy and innovation we’re seeing across Montgomery County,” County Executive Pete Vroman said.

“Second Act Spirits has demonstrated how entrepreneurship, strategic investment and a strong sense of place can drive both economic activity and community revitalization. Their inclusion on the Capital Craft Beverage Trail only adds to their momentum, and we’re proud to see them thrive here in Amsterdam,” said Ken Rose, director of the Montgomery County Business Development Center.

The distillery will be celebrating its one-year tasting room anniversary on July 26.

To learn more about their upcoming events, follow them on Facebook at @SecondActSpirits.

The small business of the month initiative recognizes local Montgomery County businesses that are making a difference in the community. Anyone wishing to nominate a deserving small business for recognition next month should contact the Montgomery County Business Development Center at 518-853-8334 or email  vnicosia2@co.montgomery.ny.us with a brief note about the positive impact the company is making on the community. Nominations can also be submitted by sharing a post and tagging the business on the Business Development Center’s Facebook and Instagram accounts.