Redmond’s DrinkSpace has signed an agreement with Skip Rock Distillers.

The local agency for boutique alcohol beverage producers was founded by Thomas Vogele, formerly of Michael Mondavi’s FOLIO Fine Wine Partners, and marketing/advertising veteran Steve Reed. DrinkSpace provides much needed sales and marketing expertise to producers, helping them navigate the myriad hurdles small wineries, breweries, cideries and distilleries encounter in the U.S. alcohol beverage industry.

“Our goal is to provide vital sales and marketing direction and a voice for the small to mid-sized producers that they just don’t have right now,” said Vogele. “We are thrilled to add another high-quality local producer to our portfolio.”

DrinkSpace’s partnership with Skip Rock comes as the distillery plans to expand to new markets and distributors.

“Our relationships allow producers to take the daily marketing tasks off of their plates, affording them the freedom to focus on brand strategy and growing their business,” said Reed.

Skip Rock Distillers, located in Snohomish, is an award-winning distillery co-founded by Julie and Ryan Hembree in 2009. Recognized by the American Distilling Institute as a “Farm Certified Distillery,” Skip Rock’s farm-to-bottle approach uses the best local materials from Skagit, Snohomish, Whatcom and Kittitas County farms.

The distillery performed extremely well at the 2015 American Craft Spirits Conference and Competition, scoring in the top tier for total medal count. Additionally, Skip Rock’s flagship vodka (Skip Rock Potato Vodka) was awarded a silver medal at the American Distilling Institute’s 9th Annual Spirits Competition last year. In addition to vodka, the distillery’s portfolio includes whiskey, rum, liqueurs and, as of this spring, gin.

“We are excited to be working with DrinkSpace,” said Ryan Hembree. “We look forward to taking our spirits and brand to the next level with their partnership and expertise.”