Sun King Brewing Expands Craft Beverage Empire with Hotel Tango Whiskey Acquisition

Sun King Brewing Company, a cornerstone of Indiana’s craft beer scene, has officially announced a major expansion of its beverage platform. On April 28, 2026, the Indianapolis-based brewery acquired select brand assets from Hotel Tango Whiskey, another beloved local staple. This acquisition grants Sun King intellectual property rights to Hotel Tango’s complete spirits portfolio, marking a significant step in Sun King’s evolution from a traditional brewery into a comprehensive craft beverage powerhouse.

The move is a calculated response to a shifting craft beverage landscape, where strategic partnerships are becoming increasingly essential for scaling and long-term stability. Sun King Co-CEO Clay Robinson emphasized that combining shared operational capabilities and strong distribution networks will bring tremendous value to both brands. Hotel Tango’s Interim CEO, Eddie DeSalle, echoed this sentiment, noting that as organic growth becomes tougher to rely on in the craft sector, finding the right home for the distillery’s next chapter was paramount.

While Sun King is famous for its award-winning core beers, the company is no stranger to spirits. They launched their own distilling operations in 2018 at their Carmel Tap Room before recently relocating the stills to their downtown Indianapolis campus. This infrastructure makes them perfectly positioned to elevate Hotel Tango’s established lineup. Sun King Co-CEO Dave Colt highlighted a particular interest in ’Shmallow, Hotel Tango’s fan-favorite toasted marshmallow whiskey. Sun King sees a wide creative runway for the distinct spirit, hinting at upcoming innovations and potential expansions into the rapidly growing ready-to-drink (RTD) category.

For local fans wondering about their favorite haunts, the transition brings exciting community collaborations. The original Hotel Tango tasting room at 702 Virginia Avenue will transition into a second location for Mooresville-based Black Dog Brewing Company. Fortunately for spirits enthusiasts, this new Black Dog outpost will continue to pour Hotel Tango’s signature craft cocktails. This ensures that the distillery’s legacy—proudly established in 2014 by U.S. Marine veteran Travis Barnes as an artisanal, military-themed brand—remains a vibrant part of the local hospitality scene.

Get all the details here: https://www.sunkingbrewing.com/blog/sun-king-brewing-company-acquires-hotel-tango-brand-assets-expanding-indiana-craft-beverage-platform