EPISODE · Aug 19, 2026 · 28 MIN
He Started a Distillery and Made It Profitable in Year 1 (Part 1/2)
from Millionaire University · host Millionaire University
Join the Millionaire University AI Mastermind at MillionaireUniversity.com/AI #1042 What does it actually take to start a distillery — and can it really be profitable in the first year? In Part 1 of this two-part episode, host Brien Gearin sits down with Matt Estrin, founder of 477 Distilling, to unpack his unlikely journey from music pastor to distillery owner. Matt shares how he learned the craft at Moonshine University, navigated the complicated licensing process, and pieced together roughly $400,000 in funding after repeatedly striking out with banks. He also breaks down the eye-opening economics of the business — including 90% margins on bottles, 97% margins on cocktails, and reaching profitability within the first year — plus why, if he were starting over today, he might skip much of the expensive equipment and put more of his money into product and building the brand instead! What we discuss with Matt: + From pastor to distillery owner + Learning at Moonshine University + Financing a distillery + Navigating licenses and permits + Sourcing vs. distilling in-house + 90% margins on bottles + 97% margins on cocktails + Becoming profitable in year one + Choosing a high-traffic location + What Matt would do differently Thank you, Matt! Check out Part 2 of this episode. Check out Matt Estrin at MattEstrin.net. Check out 477 Distilling at 477Distilling.com. Follow Matt on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn. Watch the video podcast of this episode! Get your FREE 5 Minute Business Plan at MillionaireUniversity.com/Plan To get exclusive offers mentioned in this episode and to support the show, visit MillionaireUniversity.com/Sponsors
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He Started a Distillery and Made It Profitable in Year 1 (Part 1/2)
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