Meet the Distiller

August 4, 2017
Chris Maggiolo, Head Distiller

Hello friends of SILO! My name is Chris Maggiolo and I have the distinct pleasure of serving as our company’s head distiller. It is an amazing thing to be a part of such a distinct and energetic industry as the spirits industry and an even more amazing thing to participate in part of the craft movement here in Vermont.

That said, I haven’t always been a Vermonter…

I grew up in Virginia’s Shenandoah Valley, amidst the same mountain range which SILO calls home. I attended the College of William and Mary in Williamsburg, Virginia where I studied Historical Archaeology and Environmental Policy. My mentor, archaeologist Fred Smith, quite literally wrote the book on the history of Caribbean Rum, and that’s where my interest in spirits began. I spent the summers of 2008 and 2009 in Barbados, first doing fieldwork on sugar cane plantations, and then studying the local food and beverage scene.

After spending a couple of years working for the Williamsburg Winery I moved to Boston in 2011 to pursue a Masters of Gastronomy from Boston University. Concentrating on the craft beer and spirits movements, I spent the next four years researching the history and culture of alcohol production, consumption, and distribution. Concurrent with my studies, I helped build wholesaler and retailer relationships for Beverage Media Group and managed a local homebrewing store, and with whatever free time I could muster, I volunteered with local breweries and distilleries. I held a regular internship with GrandTen Distilling in South Boston* which was the capstone of these experiences and truly helped prepare me for the work I do today. (*An amazing outfit if you’ve not yet visited!)

In June of 2015, I accepted the position here at SILO and moved to the Upper Valley. My philosophies and those of SILO are closely intertwined. We commit to furthering the local and regional agricultural economies through the act of distillation. We seek to educate consumers about spirits and their production and consumption. A well-crafted beverage may be a beautiful addition to a meal or gathering and we truly hope that you’ll join us at the distillery to experience just that.

Life certainly hasn’t been the same since moving to Vermont and joining the team. I’m engaged to be married, I’m closing on a house this very afternoon, and I’m loving every minute of it. Thanks for joining me on the ride.

Your friendly neighborhood distiller,

Chris