Historie

Thornton Distilling's history can be traced back to 1857. The 20,000-sf brick-and-limestone building was erected by the Bielfeldt family along Thorn Creek in the village of Thornton. The original artesian well still sits on the property, and here a log cabin saloon and brewery operated in 1836. The Bielfeldt family built a residence over the well, and Bielfeldt Brewing Company began producing beer using the pure artesian water, which is still used today. At the onset of Prohibition, Bielfeldt Brewing Company was sold. Thornton Distilling today produces Dead Drop Spirits and focuses on traditional malt whisky production, with single malt whisky mentioned as one of the key products and with the use of local Illinois peat highlighted.

Oprindelse og bygningshistorie

The historic building is described as the oldest standing brewery structure in the area, and the artesian well is a central part of the history and production.

Prohibition og videre

After Prohibition, the brewery was sold, and Thornton Distilling continues the story as a distillery and organizer of experiences around Dead Drop Spirits.

Dead Drop Spirits og besøgsoplevelser

Dead Drop Spirits are available for purchase at retailers, and the company invites guests to tours and guided tastings. There is also a newly opened restaurant and opportunities for private events as well as a wedding/event space.

Produktion/Fremstilling

Thornton Distilling is described as specializing in traditional malt whisky production. The centerpiece of the story is the use of local Illinois peat for their single malt whisky, and the water source plays an important role since the artesian well still exists on the property and the water is part of the brewing heritage. It is also noted that the company offers tours and tastings, and that private events and gatherings can be arranged in connection with the site.

Produkter / Whisky-serien

• Dead Drop Spirits (the brand's flagship product).
• Single malt whisky (mentioned as the central product that utilizes local Illinois peat).

Besøg og Oplevelser

• Tours and guided tastings are available; tickets can be purchased online in advance.
• After the tasting, a craft cocktail is offered, along with the option for dinner at the newly opened restaurant.
• Dead Drop Spirits are available for purchase at selected retailers in Illinois, Indiana, New York, Florida, and California.
• The company also notes that their various tasting rooms and private dining options are available for events and gatherings.

Filosofi

Thornton Distilling has a historically oriented approach that binds the distillery's old heritage with modern distillation: traditional malt whisky production, use of local peat and artesian water from the historic well, combined with experience-based tours and events. Their focus is on craftsmanship, historical inspiration, and offering visitors a deeper understanding of Illinois' alcohol history through Dead Drop Spirits and related experiences.