Every other Thursday evening from May until September, Ripton Mountain Distillery and Brandon Rec will be hosting a Cruise Night in the parking lot in front of the Distillery for connoisseurs of classic cars and custom motorcycles to come together, show off their prized possessions, and see what everyone else is riding. Anyone with a vehicle they want to share is encouraged to bring it down. The public is welcome to come check out all the vintage vehicles and souped-up hogs.
For Distillery co-owner Rick Carroll, it’s a way to “get the community going” during the summer and give people a reason to stroll downtown on a Thursday evening.
Last Thursday, a number of beautifully maintained classics and impressively customized bikes filled the lot.
Dave Anthony of Cuttingsville, VT brought his 1970 Chevy Nova in a stunning color called Cheyenne Red. Anthony knew he wanted to paint it red, but finding the right shade was key. We say he nailed it!
Ken Napiorkowski of Brandon showed off his unusual 1989 Chrysler TC Maserati, a car that was jointly developed by Chrysler and Maserati in the late 80s. Only 7,300 of these cars were produced in a bid to win over customers looking for something more luxurious than the typical Chrysler of the era. The model never really clicked with the public, but we were happy to get a glimpse of a car we’d never seen before. Thanks for bringing it down, Ken!
Dick Rouse of Brandon came by to share his 1931 Ford Model A “woody wagon.” The car had been in Rouse’s family, and he ended up buying it when its owner passed away several years ago. These were among the first station wagons ever manufactured. Rouse’s excellent example has been restored but still retains many of its original components, including much of the wood siding that gave the model its affectionate nickname.
Stephen Commo of Milton, VT rode in on his customized hybrid hog: a 2008 Road King that he transformed with components from a 2011 Road Glide, all painted a lustrous burgundy red. Commo did the work himself over the course of 3 years. The bike even has a built in iPad. It’s no wonder his bike turned out so well: Commo operates his own shop: SC Customs.
If you love old cars and custom bikes, check out the Cruise Night at Ripton Distillery, every other Thursday at 6 p.m.
The dates for summer 2023:
May 11 & 25
June 8 & 22
July 6 & 20
August 3, 17, & 31
September 14 & 28
There is no charge to participate or to view. The Distillery will be open for drinks & food.
