Distillery Gets Go-Ahead In North Adams

If you like Pina Coladas, Greylock Works has good news for you.

The city is one step closer to having a distillery.

The Berkshire Eagle reports the Planning Board unanimously approved plans this week for Ski Bum Rum, a distillery that plans to produce spiced and coconut rums using traditional methods at Greylock Works mill on State Road.

Owner Ryan Max Riley is expanding his three-year-old business in Golden, Colo., to the Berkshires.

Ski Bum Rum focuses on producing rum the way it used to be made.

In addition to the manufacturing and production side of the business, Ski Bum Rum will also feature a tasting room where patrons can try the spirits alone or in cocktails.

Before it can officially open, the City Council will need to amend the city's zoning ordinances to allow for the production of alcohol in an I-2 zone.

The council delayed action on that request amid confusion at its meeting this week, but the Planning Board has already recommended the revision.

Though Greylock Works has hosted well-attended parties, markets and other events, it had yet to land a commercial tenant — a central part of its mission.

The distillery is expected to run from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. seven days a week, with expected tasting hours Thursday through Saturday, 4 to 10 p.m.