Bently Heritage: Born in History

The ‘silos’ are an unmistakable landmark as you drive through Minden on Highway 395.

The home of the Minden Flour Milling Co. was built in 1906 and, along with the creamery, has since earned a permanent place in the collective memory of residents and visitors alike. The buildings traded hands a few times since H. F. Dangberg brought the railroad to the valley to fill with sustenance from Nevada’s bread basket, and until recently, they were closed. Not abandoned, something so stately lives on through its stories, but nonetheless could only be admired from outside.

Along came Christopher and Camille Bently, with a plan to breathe new life into this historic building. Once again the mill is processing grains, however, now in a way its founder would have surely appreciated but never imagined.

As a child, Chris knew the building was destined for something great. And the community waited with bated breath to see what would become of the beloved brick and metal. Today it’s known for many things like its stunning detail, tastes you can try to describe but really must experience, and chiefly, the estate distilled spirits.

The mill building is front and center and is now home to two German Forsyths pot stills, cooking up single malt whisky which won’t be available to sample for many years. Beyond the silos lies the ‘creamery’, the hub really, of the renovated complex known as Bently Heritage Estate Distillery. This highly automated distillery pours out vodka, gin, American whisky and liquors. It’s as high-tech as it gets, with enough of the human element to make you laugh out loud and truly appreciate the education you’ll receive when you go along on a tour.

There is really no other way to experience this world class operation than to sidle up to the bar after you take the tour. Until then, enjoy the photos, we hope to see you soon.