Joel is the founder of Quinta Essentia Alchemy, the only farm distilling consultancy. He was the Chief Distiller at Tuthilltown Spirits for 7 years where he led all phases of production and R&D as well as overseeing the transition of their Hudson Whiskey line to William Grant & Sons. He was selected to be a part of the Glynwood Apple Exchange and has been heavily involved in craft spirits and cider legislative efforts at the national and state levels, working closely with Governor Cuomo’s office, Cornell Cooperative Extension and Local Economies Project among others. He regularly speaks for the American Distilling Institute, NOFA-NY and a host of others. He is a member of the National Association of Cider Makers as well as La Commanderie Percheronne des Gouste Cidre and is a board member of the Rosendale Theater Collective. Above all, Joel considers agriculture his first occupation and primary commitment.