Makers of Shakers vodka file for bankruptcy

BENSON, Minn. (AP) -- The company that makes Shakers vodka has filed for Chapter 7 bankruptcy protection.

Infinite Spirits Inc., of Blaine, filed the voluntary petition Jan. 5 in Minnesota division of U.S. Bankruptcy Court. The first meeting of creditors was held Wednesday.

The West Central Tribune reports reports the vodka made from Minnesota-raised wheat won wide acclaim as America's answer to premium, foreign vodka brands. It also drew national attention to Benson, where it was distilled until last year.

The five original founders of Pete's Wicked Ale launched Shakers Vodka in frosted bottles shaped like Martini shakers in March 2003.

The court-appointed trustee for the petition, attorney Rick Stermer, says Infinite Spirits will be liquidated but there is the possibility that the Shakers brand could be purchased and continued.

(Copyright 2012 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)

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