About

President and Co-Founder of Mellencamp Whiskey Company

Hailing from Bloomington, Indiana, Hud Mellencamp has always embraced a diverse range of experiences. A Duke University graduate and former member of the Duke football team, Hud's varied background has shaped his unique perspective and entrepreneurial spirit. During his high school years, Hud was a passionate boxer, winning the Golden Gloves several times, a testament to his dedication and drive.

Hud's professional journey has seen him thrive in various roles, from executive recruiter to tour manager. However, his true calling emerged in 2022 when he and his best friend Levi founded Mellencamp Whiskey Company. With a deep appreciation for fine spirits, Hud has channeled his energy into creating a brand that reflects his commitment to quality and craftsmanship.

Outside of his professional endeavors, Hud enjoys traveling, being on tour with the bands he works with, and exploring new whiskeys. His passion for adventure and new experiences continues to inspire the innovation and excellence at Mellencamp Whiskey Company.

Vice President and Co-Founder of Mellencamp Whiskey Company

Born and raised in Bloomington, Indiana, Levi spends his time hunting, fishing, gardening, and fixing up old houses. He can often be found on Lake Monroe with his trusty old hound Bandit, trying to real in some fish! Levi looks forward to building MCW to its full potential and is proud of what they have accomplished so far. Keep an eye on the journey as they blend passions and pursuit of new endeavors and opportunities! 

Hud Mellencamp and Levi Collison share an unbreakable bond as best friends for more than 15 years. Their childhoods were intertwined, living just half a mile apart on the scenic shores of Lake Monroe in Bloomington, Indiana. It was here that they discovered a shared passion for whiskey and a deep love for their home state. Together, they created cherished memories during summers spent on the lake and camping adventures in the beautiful Hoosier National Forest.

Both Hud and Levi have deep-rooted connections to Indiana, with their families having strong ties to the state's history. Levi's grandfather worked as a dedicated train engineer, transporting Indiana grain and coal for three decades, and his father continues to reside on an Indiana grain farm to this day. Hud's great-grandfather, in contrast, had an unwavering love for his hometown of Seymour, and he rarely ventured outside its boundaries during his lifetime. While Hud's grandfather and brother still call Seymour home, they are a bit more adventurous in exploring the world beyond.

The rich history and shared experiences of Hud Mellencamp and Levi Collison further strengthen their friendship and shape their genuine affection for the state they call home, Indiana.

Mellencamp Whiskey Company and Hard Truth Distilling Co. have come together to celebrate their shared Indiana heritage. This collaboration is founded on the deep friendship between the founders of Mellencamp Whiskey Company, Hud Mellencamp, Levi Collison, and the Head Distiller of Hard Truth Distilling Co., Bryan Smith.

Bryan, an Indiana native, shares a special bond with Hud and Levi as they were neighbors for many years near Lake Monroe. All three of them have a strong appreciation for the beauty of nature, the local community, and, of course, whiskey. With their common small-town roots in Indiana and a shared passion for supporting local farmers and using high-quality local ingredients, this partnership was meant to be.

Hud's connection to farming communities runs deep as he is the son of one of the founders of Farm Aid, a charity that assists farmers across America. In keeping with this tradition, Hard Truth established the Grounded in Truth initiative, which supports local farmers in collaboration with Farm Aid. This commitment to supporting local farmers and sourcing top-notch ingredients perfectly aligns with their values.

Together, Mellencamp Whiskey Company and Hard Truth Distilling Co. proudly present a special blend that showcases the very best of Indiana. Their whiskey is crafted with the finest locally-sourced ingredients, a testament to their shared values and dedication to their beloved home state. They eagerly look forward to sharing this unique collaboration with whiskey enthusiasts worldwide.