Blaum Bros. Distilling Co.

Nestled in a picturesque corner of Illinois is a place where tradition and modern craftsmanship blend in every drop. Blaum Bros. Distilling Co. is a family-owned craft enterprise that has become a true symbol of the distilling culture's revival in the region. Here, brothers Mike and Matt Blaum have turned their hobby into an art form, creating exceptional handcrafted spirits.

Located in the historic city of Galena, this distillery stands out for its approach to production. The entire cycle—from the careful milling of grain to fermentation and distillation on their own copper equipment—takes place under the strict supervision of masters. It is not just a factory, but a space filled with passion for the craft and respect for quality ingredients.

A visit to this site in the USA allows tourists not only to see the process of creating whiskey or gin but also to connect with the history of the city itself, which has always been famous for its industrial traditions. Today, Blaum Bros. is rightfully considered one of the most vibrant and visited attractions in the area.

For those planning a visit who want to clarify tasting details or book a tour, Blaum Bros. Distilling Co. provides several ways to get in touch. You can contact the team directly by phone or check out their official website.

The highlight for every guest is the interactive production tour. Unlike typical brief overviews, a full immersion awaits visitors here: you can not only listen but also touch, smell, and taste the ingredients used to create vodka, gin, whiskey, and even the famous American moonshine.

During the walkthrough, you'll see the heart of the enterprise—a massive copper pot still—and be guided into the barrel room. This is a special place where whiskey slowly matures in rows of white oak barrels, acquiring its unique aroma and color. Guides explain the nuances of fermentation and distillation in detail, answering even the most complex questions from connoisseurs.

After the educational portion, guests are invited to the cozy pub-bar. It’s the perfect spot for a relaxed tasting. Experienced bartenders expertly mix cocktails using the distillery’s signature spirits, allowing you to fully appreciate the purity and character of the local drinks. You can also purchase a bottle of your favorite spirit as a unique souvenir.

Finding Blaum Bros. Distilling Co. is quite simple, as it is conveniently located right on US Highway 20, on the western edge of town. This route is one of the region's main transportation arteries, making the site easily accessible for travelers with their own vehicles.

If you are staying in the historic center, a taxi ride will only take a few minutes. The city of Galena is located in northwestern Illinois, and many tourists choose to visit from major metropolitan areas like Chicago as part of a one- or two-day trip.

For those who prefer organized trips, local travel agencies often include a visit to this distillery in their itineraries. Thanks to its location right off the highway, the distillery is impossible to miss, and convenient parking is provided for visitors directly at the entrance.

The story of this ambitious project began in December 2013. Its founders, brothers Mike and Matt Blaum, decided to radically change their career paths and turn their long-time passion for distilling into a family business. Before this, their lives were far removed from spirits production: Matt was in nuclear pharmacy, and Mike worked for the National Security Agency.

Choosing the city of Galena to open the facility was no accident. The brothers were drawn by three key factors: ideal proximity to high-quality grain sources, the region's developed tourism environment, and the warm atmosphere of the local community. They sought to revive distilling traditions in a place famous for its rich history.

Success came almost instantly. In its very first year of operation, the establishment was recognized as the city's top tourist attraction according to TripAdvisor. Today, the brand's products are in demand far beyond Illinois, being available in hundreds of retail outlets across the country.

Interestingly, the brothers still maintain control over every stage of production. From the first grain drop to labeling the whiskey bottle, everything happens under their personal supervision, maintaining their status as a craft enterprise with soul and unique character.

To fully enjoy your visit, it is recommended to set aside 1.5 to 2 hours. This is enough time to take a leisurely guided tour of the production facilities and sample the flavor palette in the tasting room.

If you plan to linger in the distillery's cozy pub-bar to try signature cocktails or simply relax in good company, you should factor in a bit more time. A visit to Blaum Bros. is more than just looking at equipment; it’s a full sensory experience that shouldn’t be rushed.

The distillery welcomes guests on a flexible schedule; however, keep in mind that the facility is typically closed to visitors at the start of the week (Tuesday and Wednesday). On Thursday and Monday, doors are open from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM, while on Friday and Saturday, hours are extended until 9:00 PM, allowing for evening cocktails at the bar. On Sunday, the site operates until 5:00 PM.

Since operating hours and tour times may vary depending on the season or private events, we strongly recommend checking for the latest information on the official website before your trip.

A stroll around the distillery's surroundings will allow you to dive deeper into the atmosphere of Illinois. The city is rich in historical monuments and interesting locations that are within walking distance or just a couple of minutes' drive away.

Exploring local attractions related to the Civil War and prominent figures of the past is a great addition to a tasting tour. Below is a list of interesting places located nearby: