Scot Sanborn has been waiting for this day for a long time.

But after an arduous federal approval process, he’s almost ready to kick off the Triad’s only legal distillery, and the first in Winston-Salem in more than 200 years.

Sutler’s Spirit, named for the men who used to supply alcohol to troops in conflicts such as the Revolutionary and Civil wars, has announced its grand opening party on April 25. The event will also double as the company’s gin release. Down the road, Sutler’s Spirit will also sell rum.

Other distilleries are planned in the Triad — equipment and signage is already visible at Broad Branch distillery on Trade Street in Winston-Salem — but Sutler’s is the first to officially open its doors.

It’s been more than a year in process; Triad City Beat printed the first interview with Sanborn a year ago. The distillery operates at the West End Mill Works, between Hoots brewery and bar and the Porch Cantina restaurant.