A semi-truck loaded with 10,000 bottles of Woodinville Whiskey tipped over early Friday on Interstate 90 in King County, Washington, causing a major traffic jam but no reported injuries. Or reported broken bottles, as relayed by KIRO 7 News.
The crash happened around 7 a.m. in the eastbound lanes near milepost 45, roughly 11 miles east of North Bend, according to Washington State Patrol. Officials said speed played a role in the rollover.
The incident blocked most lanes for several hours as crews worked to upright the truck and clear the scene. Only one lane remained open during the response, which triggered a 13-mile backup, according to the Washington State Department of Transportation.
Whiskey Survives, Mostly
State Patrol Trooper Rick Johnson shared a photo of the
"Speed played a role. Only one lane getting by. Expect delays through the area," Johnson wrote. "This truck is carrying whiskey. Hoping it survives when the trailer is rolled back over!"
Fortunately, the bottles did survive the crash. Officials have not said whether any alcohol spilled during the incident.
Local Craft Distillery Behind the Cargo
The whiskey came from Woodinville Whiskey Co., a Washington-based craft distillery founded by longtime friends Orlin Sorensen and Brett Carlile, according to the company website. The company, located in the town of Woodinville, produces small-batch spirits using a "grain-to-glass" approach.
Woodinville sources its grain from the Omlin Family Farm in Quincy, Washington, and ages its whiskey in barrels exposed to the harsh seasonal swings of Central Washington. So it's located in the same state as the accident.
The company reportedly has earned a loyal following for its attention to detail and traditional methods, and the loss of even a portion of its product on the road is no small matter.
Traffic in the area eventually returned to normal by late morning. Authorities reminded drivers to slow down and use caution, especially when hauling heavy loads through mountainous terrain.
