Allegany County’s first distillery ever expected to open in mid-2026
By Andrew Harris, follow BelCliff on Facebook for updates
The vision of two life long friends is becoming a reality in the heart of Allegany County NY. The craft of distilling grains and fruits into spirits is one of the first commercial ventures in human history. From empire to religion to community; spirits have played key roles.
In modern day America, spirits are still ingrained in our culture but are also powerful economic drivers. Wineries, breweries, and distilleries have all proven to drive a local economy forward, leading to a rejuvenated Main Street or city block.
The Hanchett and Renna partnership intends to accomplish that on Main Street Belfast NY, a town who just celebrated 200 years. Like most small town Main Streets, empty storefronts are a reality, making this big news for a small town.
Local community activist Patty Preston is excited:
“BelCliff will be an awesome addition to Main Street and a wonderful place for the community to gather, enjoy a good drink, and celebrate! Thanks to the Hanchetts and Rennas and all who are helping bring BelCliff to Belfast!”
Belfast’s Harrington Owned Wine and Liquor store owner Jeff Harrington already has a history with BelCliff. In the search to find the perfect location Jeff suggested the team contact Joe Curcio who is on a mission to revive downtown Belfast NY. Curcio owns the building that BelCliff has decided to invest in and Harrington couldn’t be more excited about the development:
“We could not be more excited about this new development for Belfast. Our wine and liquor store can’t wait to have BelCliff spirits on our shelves. Cheers to many years of collaboration and success!!”
From BelCliff Distilling:
Our Story
Follow us as we build BelCliff Distilling from the ground up — where craft, community, and a splash of spirit come together.
At BelCliff Distilling, we believe every bottle should tell a story—of land, legacy, and the people who shape it.
Nestled in the heart of Allegany County, Belfast NY, our distillery is more than a business, it’s a family-rooted dream.
Co-founded by Doug Hanchett and Larry Renna, BelCliff is a tribute to generations of grit, craftsmanship, and the rugged beauty of Western New York.
Doug, our Distiller, brings a farm-to-glass philosophy shaped by years of working the land and perfecting his craft. Every spirit we produce reflects his deep respect for the process. Born and rooted in Allegany County, Doug is equal parts cultivator, craftsman, and co-founder. Years of tending heirloom gardens, growing up on a farm, and homebrewing laid the groundwork for what would become a signature taste of the region.
Larry Renna, Co-Founder and lifelong craftsman, brings a hands-on approach and a steady vision to the heart of BelCliff. Larry brings extensive executive leadership experience to the world of craft spirits. With a background in business development, operational strategy, and scaling organizations, he applies a disciplined, hands-on approach to building and guiding BelCliff’s operations. His practical wisdom and deep roots in the community have helped shape the foundation—both literally and figuratively—of everything we’re building.
Gretchen leads our Marketing and Community Development efforts, blending her passion for storytelling with a deep commitment to the region we call home. Whether she’s crafting a message, building partnerships, or welcoming guests, she ensures that BelCliff is more than a distillery, it’s a place to connect.
Judy Renna plays a vital role on our Marketing team, helping to share the BelCliff story with heart and clarity. Her thoughtful touch and behind-the-scenes support help bring our brand to life across every platform. With a keen eye for detail, she helps share the BelCliff story with the world—one post, one pour, and one connection at a time.
And then there’s GINger—our spirited Golden Retriever puppy and official BelCliff Mascot. Whether she’s greeting guests, chasing leaves, or simply napping in the tasting room, GINger reminds us to savor the moment and never take life too seriously.
BelCliff is more than a distillery. It’s a family endeavor, a love letter to Allegany County, and a celebration of the people—and pups—who make this place home.
Whether you’re a neighbor or a traveler, we invite you to taste the spirit of Allegany County—one pour at a time.
Why the name BelCliff ?
“BelCliff Distilling was born from two hometowns and one shared dream. “Bel” for Belmont, NY where Doug and Gretchen Hanchett live, and “Cliff” for Clifford, PA, home to Larry and Judy Renna. Though our original plans began in Belmont, fate had other ideas, and we found our perfect home just up the road in Belfast, NY.
The name stuck. Because BelCliff isn’t just a place, it’s a partnership, a family, and a story of resilience.
And the fact that the journey led us to “Bel” Belfast, NY, just adds another layer of adventure and charm!”
The Belcliff team plan to bring the public along on the journey so be sure to connect with them on Facebook for the latest construction updates, cute puppy pics, and previews of good spirits to come!!
