This place isn't really a distillery. More of a showroom which is fine but didn't really the sense of distilling process you would get on a beer tour. I would say they host an educational tasting instead. Because there wasn't much to show visually, the tasting lost my interest at some point. The tasting gave drinks other than whiskey and I'm glad for that. That surprised me but also got me excited to try their unique gin, brandy, and liquor. They say they are unique for some of their line of whiskey that uses different grains that are not 100% of the whiskey in the industry. I can't say I particularly appreciate the different grain as much as I hoped I would. I remembered trying a one day age barrel whiskey which is basically vodka with a subtle flavor. I also really like their one of their blend with notes of Creme Brulee. Overall tasting all of the whiskey side by side really help distinguish the differences in what whiskey can be. Also from the first to the last drink, you can tell all of their whiskey is on par with top-shelf liquor. What really struck me is that I like their non-whiskey products even more. The peach brandy is one of the best brandy I drank(although I don't drink much Brandy). Their gin hit me with strong lavender notes and some other floral note in the background. They also had an aged gin, more appealing for people who can't handle gin. It is much less offensive yet less floral as well. They end the tasting with their liquors. Man, these liquors are some of the best. I think they are just dangerous for how easy it was to drink. Coffee is like cold brew with some sugar. Ginger is like a sweet ginger dessert or as my friend said "ginger tea with honey". I enjoyed their tasting showcase and got a fun souvenir. A mini keychain flask with Koval label on it. I recommend anyone who enjoys whiskey to go to their tasting. read more

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Disturbed by the Man With The Pumpkin shirt. I had wanted to visit this place for the longest time. Arrived as one of the first visitors of the day (only 3 groups in tasting room). Proceeded to get drinks which were awesome. Went on enjoying day as tasting room got busier and returned to order two coffee based cocktails; was told by Mr. Pumpkin that the drinks we were ordering took too much time to make and that our next drink would be "whiskey". We had been nothing but courteous to this honkey. Everyone in our party works in the hospitality industry. The other two bartenders were great. Hiring is tough right now for everyone, we get it. Perhaps informing employees that they are expected to be able to make drinks listed on a very straightforward cocktail menu should come as the first "requirement" on future job postings. read more

This place rocks. Kid/stroller friendly. Very clean. Chill vibe. Excellent cocktails. Easy parking. Fantastic patio. Well maintained bathrooms. First visit of many! Cheers! read more

I tried them for the first and last time. I went with a group and was given a hard time when I asked about nonalcoholic options. The bartender actually said ' why would you come to a tasting room' ? Too many reasons to list here but there are obviously a lot; there is however NO reason to be so rude, pompous and out of touch in 2022!! read more

Fun place! Visited here for events, workshops and even a magic show. Warm and friendly staff and bartenders. Tasty cocktails. Good neighborhood business. read more

GREAT Place for some tasting and information on the start of this small distillery. It is very small but it is great if you want to sample some liquor. Went a few weeks ago to try out the first distillery in Chicago since the prohibition...very cool fact. The tour/tasting is about an hour and you get to try almost everything. Also if there is something that you really want to sample all you have to do is ask and the friendly staff that works there will give you a small nip. I have done the bourbon trail in Kentucky so I was interested to see how a distillery in the city would be and I was very impressed with their product and lay out. All whiskeys are great and the gin is something special. I especially liked the Millet Whiskey; smooth with a clean finish. We bought a bottle to take home because it was that good! I actually might drink some right after I finish this review. LOL You gotta try this place so that the next time you see Koval in the store or bar you can drink some good top shelf. read more

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We did a tour and Joshua was awesome! It was informational, fun, and delicious. Joshua, our tour guide, was funny and engaging. The tasting was great and helped us make decisions of what to bring home... and bring home we did! The chrysanthemum and honey liquor was a pleasant surprise and the millet (110 proof) was complex and one of our choices to go home. We had cocktails before the tour (bees knees, blackberry sour, and give me a hug) which were delightful. I highly recommend! Wish we lived closer so we could go to trivia night! read more

Another stop we made on our trip to Chicago. The wife's never been to the Midwest and we wanted to visit some "non-tourist" spots. Nice little tasting-tour, very intimate. Top notch spirits. Nice to have a full bar attached. We even bought a bottle of their peach infused whiskey to take back to CA. We love seeing Koval on the shelf at a few places here. Good job! read more

As far as I know there are no dance clubs for people who still love Prince, arent physically or ethically capable of twerking, and want to be in bed by midnight. But my tribe still has cocktail bars. Koval has opened a beautiful minimalist space devoid of TVs with Wisconsin Badger games, chicken wings, and bros. What they do have are smooth cocktails and place to have a good slurred conversation. The Mahattans are mellow and the bathrooms are clean. Does this bore you? Good. Enjoy your Malort. read more

Fantastic local distillery with excellent whiskey and some very creative other spirits. I'm not a huge gin drinker, but the cranberry gin is amazing. Great tours and tastings as well. read more

I came to the tour as a company outing and everyone had a good time learning about the Koval history and their distilling process. The tour consists of a nice instructional menu on how to make typical drinks with Koval - total drinks is equivalent to two full mixed cocktails. I would definitely come back here for another tour, well worth the $10 fee. read more

Despite passing by multiple Koval bottles at Binny's, never once suspected it was locally distilled right here in Chicago! Tried out the tour this past Sunday, which lasted about an hour. The pour per tasting is very little compared to other distilleries I've been to, but the selection you get to taste is huge. We must have tried at least 10 samplings! My favorites were the 'peach brandy' and 'barreled gin'--not only for their taste but the bottle design/packaging too. Highly recommend to go on the tour! There is parking available right outside the distillery (maybe about 6 spots?), and plenty of street parking available too. read more

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Nice cocktails The ambience is a little stark for my taste Personality of the staff was non-existent High marks is because I'm more about the product I'm really more 3 1/2 read more

Oh my stars. Can anything be more luscious and decadent than a perfectly crafted Old Fashioned on a sunny deck on a June afternoon? Thank you, Koval, for the complex bourbon and tasty cocktail. read more

I was talking to my dad yesterday about the Koval tour we went on together a few weeks ago, and decided I better leave a review. First, let me start by saying that Koval makes great spirits and I highly recommend the Rose Hip Liqueur. It's like sipping on candy. Also, I want to point out that I'm sure it is extremely difficult to run a small business in Chicago, especially one in the alcohol industry. With that being said, I have a few opinions on how the tours should be run. Tours are $10. This is by far the most I've ever had to pay for a distillery or brewery tour. And usually when you pay for a tour they give you a glass and generous servings. We got to try a variety of gins, whiskeys and vodka. However (and again I'm sure this is a Illinois law) they only gave us 0.25 oz taste measured with a scientific pipette. 0.25 oz is barely enough alcohol for your tongue to taste. So that was disappointing. I commend them for trying to follow the laws, but maybe they should give less variety and larger samples or just don't charge for the tour and tasting. read more

Night time sharpens, heightens each sensation Darkness wakes and stirs imagination Silently the senses abandon their defenses Helpless to resist the notes I tasted For I enjoyed the whiskey of the night Slowly, gently night unfurls it's splendor Grasp it, sense it, tremulous and tender Tasting is believing, gin is not deceiving Hard as lightening, soft as candlelight Dare you trust the whiskey of the night You alone can make the drink take flight Help me taste the whiskey of the night read more

Fun and informative tour which is really just a talk and a demonstration abt their process but still, the presenter did an awesome job and took all the time needed for questions and pictures. This was the first clue of what they all are about. Next we got to try various samples during our tour. Their Rye whiskies are exquisite. I bought a bottle of their single barrel rye finished in amburana barrels and received a discount for taking the tour. Second clue, quality products. We went to the bar/lounge after the tour for drinks and had a bunch of creative and fresh made cocktails featuring their spirits. The bar has plenty of space for everyone including couches. We could have stayed all night enjoying their libations. There was a mixup on our tab due to the fact that my kids and I each had tabs with the same last name which wound up in us getting charged a couple of extra drinks; an honest mistake. The manager took care of the problem and insisted on making it right. I am so impressed with their commitment to their customers. From the tour sign up process, through the tour and tasting, and after, these guys are just quality, top to bottom. I can't stop raving about KOVAL and our experience and I can't wait to bring my friends here. read more

I absolutely love KOVAL's tasting room! I went for the first time in February and have already been back multiple times since. The space is pleasant and bright and you can actually have a conversation while enjoying your drinks -- a great alternative to a loud, dark bar. It's perfect for a date night or a small group. It's also good for both daytime (especially when it's nice enough out to sit on the patio) and night. But the vibe isn't the only (or even the primary!) reason to try KOVAL. Every single drink I've had at the tasting room has been both reasonably priced and tasty, from the Valentine's Day specials I enjoyed on my first visit to the slushie I sipped on the patio this past weekend. read more

Went for their comedy show night. Drinks were amazing. Comedians were equally as amazing. Will definitely go back!

Came here for a whiskey appreciation class and it was worth every dollar spent. Our host for the night was so delightful. She nailed it all (even all the biological bits despite claiming to only have a master in oboe.) I'm terrible with names but I wish I had her name so that her bosses would know that she did an amazing job and give her a bigger bonus. The class itself was interesting and I did learn quite a bit more (not quite an American whiskey aficionado yet). I went away with 4 bottles so I dare say that it was a great experience. I'll love to be back for the cocktail class but I'll have to restrain from buying more bottles. Tip: get the reusable bag as you get a 10% off if you bring it back for future purchases. read more

KOVAL Distillery - A measure of whiskey - Distilleries Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

We've loved KOVAL since the first time we stepped inside for a tour back in 2013. From the story to the passion behind the products, we were loyal customers of the whiskeys and liquers, but never had a chance to take a cocktail class until last week. We took the herbalicious cocktail class with Zach and Emily on Thursday 3/14 and it was wonderful. Not only did we learn a ton about making tinctures, infused spirits, and mixing cocktails - but we laughed the entire time. Each guest gets to take a whirl at preparing a cocktail after a quick demo and then you taste and take the recipes home. We ended up tasting 4 sample size cocktails - just the right amount to feel good, but not ruin your Friday morning. Definitely check it out - you won't regret spending an evening with the KOVAL team! read more

It was our first time yesterday. Place looked clean and comfy. I tried Hand Hearts and Esperesso Martini. They were really good. read more

KOVAL Distillery - Hand hearts - Distilleries Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

I love that this distillery is off the beaten pack and in a semi industrial corridor. It also helps that their products are all high quality and unique. While you can get their liqueur in many shops around here, I find that this small store usually has more of a selection. Do their distillery tour (You can usually get a deal on the many deal sites out there). You will learn a lot and have a good time. Just keep in mind that this location is more of a storefront and storage instead of the actual production facility. They moved to a bigger space and only distill clear alcohol here now. You get to try most of their stuff during the tour and they are gracious enough to let you sample more after the tour. Plus you get a discount after your tour on anything they sell. I'm a big fan of their product and how they conduct their business. And its very local - it started here before the boom in craft whiskey and still makes a quality product. read more

We had our wedding here in August, and it could not have been more perfect. Drake was our event manager and we were able to have great communication leading up to the event to get every detail organized. Drake went above and beyond in preparation for our wedding, and especially the day of to make sure everything went perfectly. This was their first wedding they've ever done, but it did not show. JP is an amazing bartender and all the staff were very helpful. Would definitely recommend Koval for a night out and especially a private event! read more

I've always loved Koval and received a distillery tour for Christmas. During the tour, we learned a lot about how our favorite liquors are made, including the grain used. We enjoyed the tour so much, that we decided to check out their "Cocktails and Storytelling" class, where we learned a a bit about cocktail making while laughing over stories told by others in the class. After the tour or class, the staff typically offers 10% off any of their products, which is a great perk. Highly recommend checking this place out for a tour or cocktail class, or better yet, both! read more

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Madison and Emily helped us here. They were both SUPER knowledgeable and enthusiastic about the products distilled here as well as the company's history. I took several bottles home although I wished I could have bought everything! The tour looked really cool, although we didn't have time to go on it....next time! read more

KOVAL Distillery - Cool - Distilleries Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Dropped in here while in the area and saw it on Yelp. Oval is one of those small, craft distilleries that are so fun to find and try. They are very local, family owned. A small place with lots of craft alcohols. The staff is nice and happy to let you sample anything that they have there. And their products are good! I tried their various whiskeys, and they have some very unusual and tasty whiskeys. Their tour, which includes tastings and tons of good info, is only $10. Awesome. Seriously, if you're in the area, stop by. You will almost certainly not go home empty handed! read more

Looking for a fun way to spend a Saturday afternoon as the weather gets colder, well I would recommend a Koval Distillery tour! I would be sure to reserve your spot on the tour prior to going! Tickets are only $10 and include tastings of many of their different spirits such as gin, bourbon and even some of their liqueurs! I am not a big fan of bourbon, however I can honestly say there was nothing I had on the tour that I did not like! I would recommend using a ride sharing app instead of driving here, because there are so many samples that you can leave feeling a little buzzed! Loved this tour, can't wait to come back for a class! read more

I cannot say enough great things about Koval hospitality , distillery and spirits. It was our first experience visiting and tasting. Right from the start I had trouble paying for the distillery tour online. Even though I tried a couple different methods. When I called I was assured not to worry my party would be accommodated. My relatively large party was graciously accommodated and we enjoyed tasting a number of spirits. Later, various family members ( same last names) opened tabs in the tasting room and, unfortunately, confused the wonderful bartenders. Once again, Koval more than made everything right. We had a great experience in the beautiful new location and will be happy to make a return trip. read more

Came here on a Saturday for their tour/tasting. The Office manager gave the tour, and was good. Nice little story on how the owners opened up the distillery. He said right away in the beginning, that any technical questions he may not answer well and may make up. I am guessing if you want in depth info on the process, ask when the person who makes the batches or one of the owner will be on site. Their whiskeys/vodkas and liqueurs are all tasty. Small place so you will be standing in one spot most of the time. Tour is at least an hour long. The only distillery in chicago! read more

KOVAL Distillery - Distilleries Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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What an excellent time to spend an afternoon at the local Chicago distillery. For $10, you can receive a short but informative tour about the Koval distillery that includes a solid tasting of a variety of their spirits, ranging from gin to bourbon to even coffee liqueurs. While this location is not where much of the manufacturing happens, the tour still provides insight into how Koval's distillation process differs from many other major players in the market. Additionally, you get wide-ranging and buzz-worthy samples of the spirits for which Koval is best known. It is recommended you get tickets ahead of time online; however, it is still possible to pay at the door if room is available for a tour. This tour does not provide the nitty-gritty details of distillation but I would still definitely recommend to anyone looking for a fun and local weekend activity in the city. read more

Gilt City recently had a great offer for a private tasting for 10 so I bought it for my husband's birthday party. We had a great time! It was a private tasting (which you can set up outside of the Gilt deal) and they allowed us to bring in a birthday cake to celebrate. Annie was our tour guide and she was amazing - really nice. It's a small space so there isn't much to "tour", but she gave us a history of the company and we got to sample 9 different products the company offered. I personally really liked the flavored liquors (rose hip, ginger). Some of the people in our group bought whiskey there and we had it with our cake. We had a great time and would definitely recommend this tour to others. 54/365 read more

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We came for a tour on Wednesday at 7. Our tour guide, Karen, was very good. She made it interesting and she was very knowledgeable. The tour lasted about 40 minutes, and there were 6 of us there. One couple showed up just a few minutes late, and the tour guide was annoyed and they missed out on 3 tastings. So try to be early! Plus, if you are early, you can park right out in front. In total, we tried 2 white whiskeys, 2 aged whiskeys, 1 Brandy, 1 Bourbon, and 3 infused liqueurs. With everything combined, we probably had about 2 shots. Overall, the tour was very informative! I would recommend wearing comfortable shoes though, as you will be standing the entire time! They also sell teeshirts, and of course, all their alcoholic drinks. They also sell whiskey soy candles! read more

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Did the tour this past Sunday, decided on the later session (4pm) hoping for a more intimate experience and got it. I recommend doing this. Tour guide was vibrant and knowledgeable. Sample tastings of most the products Koval makes made it highly worth the money. read more

KOVAL Distillery - Distilleries Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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Found a tour on Groupon, which said complimentary shot glasses but there was definitely none of that. Glasses were returned and reused. The tour is worth doing to figure out which of their products you actually like so as to not have to spend slightly more than the average liquor on something you may not like. I believe there was 11 samples in total, and the coffee liquor and ginger liquor were my top two. Tour is short, parking out front is free, and you'll learn a lot about the distilling process-you might become a liquor snob from all the knowledge. read more

The 8 of us had such a fun time learning how to make Old Fashion cocktails with Emily!!! We drank (a lot) and the best part? No hang over as Emily said because we were drinking quality spirits! These classes are a fun way to do a group activity, learn something new and fun, and create some memories. read more

KOVAL Distillery - Cocktail making "classroom". - Distilleries Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Very cool local distillery. I took a tour with some friends and we highly enjoyed it. The tour is in their smaller "touring" distillery, complete with copper distiller and oak barrels. I'm a big fan of their dessert liquors, not so much the whiskeys (though didn't get a chance to try the bourbon whiskey which is more my taste). The Rose Hips liquor is excellent. The tour guide seemed a little tired, but I had plenty of tastes. Plus, Hopleaf is blocks away for afterwards! read more

I went for a tour of the distillery recently. The tour which includes samples is well worth the $10 cost. The tour guide was very knowledgeable. She explained how Koval started and the distilling process. We had so many samples and she did a great job at explaining each one. They also offer a cocktail class. I would definitely go for that if I didn't live in another state. A perk of the tour is that you also get 10% off of your purchase while there. I brought home some gin and whiskey that I'm excited to drink! read more

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Loved our tour guide, Annie!!! She made the information both interesting and fun and we were really glad that we made it part of our family vacation. They have a little retail shop on location that enabled us to buy a few of our favorites and Annie allowed us to try a couple of more items before we purchased them. We expect to see and hear a lot more about them in the years to come! read more

I'm a whiskey snob so I always snubbed this brand due to it not being from Kentucky. But we were gifted a tasting, I went, I tasted, I toured and am now a fan. The whiskey is unique and tasty. I recommend the Groupon deal for tour and tasting, it was well worth our time. I recommend KOVAL now, we bought some to take home. read more