What do Native American trade routes, German beer making, bootlegging and great whiskey all have in common?

Step back in time and experience the charm of Thornton, Illinois, as we explore the historic distillery behind Dead Drop Spirits! Immerse yourself in the rich history of Illinois' first brewery with its very own artesian well. Our afternoon adventure includes an exclusive tour of this iconic building, where you'll uncover its fascinating past and witness the artistry behind their renowned spirits.

But that’s not all—Head Distillery Ari Klafter (who earned a Master’s degree in Brewing and Distilling at Scotland's Heriot Watt University) will lead you through a  sampling of their exceptional products straight from the barrel

Before or after the tour, treat yourself to a delicious meal at their delightful restaurant, where you can choose to dine before or after the event. Don’t miss this unique opportunity to combine history, craft spirits, and great food in one unforgettable afternoon!

Click here to make restaurant reservations. The meal is not included in the cost of the event.

About Thornton Distilling – the Maker of Dead Drop Spirits

In 1933, John Kinzie and Gordon Hubbard acquired the land for The Village of Thornton from Indigenous American Claude LaFramboise. Hubbard, a trader and son-in-law of Chief Tamin of the Kankakee Potawatomi, played a key role in this transaction.

Thornton Distilling Company's history dates back to 1857 when immigrant brewer John Bielfeldt built a brewery with a ten-barrel kettle in Thornton, Illinois. The site had hosted a log cabin saloon and brewery since 1836, utilizing an artesian well.

During Prohibition, the Bielfeldt Brewing Company was sold to Carl Ebner, who secretly brewed beer until federal agents raided the brewery, destroying vats and dumping beer into Thorn Creek. The brewery later fell under the control of Al Capone and Joe Saltis, who supplied Chicago.

In 2014, a team of craft distillers, intrigued by the site’s history as Illinois’ oldest brewery and its ongoing artesian well, undertook the restoration of the 18,000-square-foot property.

After distilling and laying down barrels of whiskey and rum for two years, Thornton Distilling Company, the Maker of Dead Drop Spirits, celebrated its Grand Opening on the anniversary of Repeal Day, December 5th, 2019 with the launch of Dead Drop Spirits. Dead Drop Spirits are now distributed throughout Chicagoland and the US. A "Dead Drop" is an old prohibition-era bootlegging term when barrels of whiskey would be left at a secret location for pick-up at a later date.

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Event Ticketing

• Members: $30
• Non-Members: $45
• Bundle (includes 1yr BW Membership): $95

Event registration ends on October 17th. No refunds will be given after this time. Must be 21 or older to participate. Please sip responsibly.