From Grain to Glass: The Journey of Rock River Distillation

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Nestled in northwest Iowa, near the banks of the Rock River, lies Rock River Distillation. Founded by Dave Ackerman, a retired educator, our distillery is more than just a business; it’s a passion project. After a long career as a shop teacher, principal, and superintendent, Dave wanted a hobby that would excite him in retirement. His journey into distillation began by accident when a cold winter froze his wine in the barn, starting the distillation process. The resulting brandy was a hit, inspiring Dave to explore distillation further and transform his hand-crafted barn into a creative hub.

At Rock River Distillation, we create bourbon whiskey that captures the spirit of the Midwest. Our bourbon is unique, spending at least two years in two different barrels to soak up a rich array of flavors. The high-quality corn from northwest Iowa adds to the distinctiveness of our whiskey. Dave's background in education, especially his time as a shop teacher, helped him design our distillery's space with a focus on quality craftsmanship.

We welcome visitors to experience Rock River Distillation firsthand. Locals and tourists enjoy sampling Dave’s staple bourbons and exploring his latest creations. We take pride in fostering a sense of community in northwest Iowa and Lyon County, and we aim to expand our reach to neighboring states and beyond. Whether you’re a whiskey enthusiast or new to bourbon, we invite you to tour our distillery, taste our products, and become part of the Rock River Distillation family. Come raise a glass with us and share in the passion and dedication that defines Rock River Distillation.