Whiskey is a big deal here
We’re dedicated to quality and craftsmanship in everything we make
A hundred years ago, Peoria was the whiskey capital of the world. With nearly 100 breweries and distilleries, this town had a well-earned reputation for the quality and quantity of whiskey it produced. In 1920, Prohibition brought those distilleries to a halt. But making whiskey illegal didn’t stop people wanting to drink it.
JK Williams was a successful distiller turned bootlegger, and his family kept his original recipes safe for over 100 years. Today, we’re proud to carry on his legacy and give a new generation of whiskey drinkers a taste of the golden age of whiskey in Peoria. We continue to innovate and produce high quality, handcrafted spirits with a nod to the heritage of JK Williams and his family.
Come get a taste
Visit our tasting room to sample a glass — or buy a bottle.
Make your own —
cocktail recipes
Betty
Light whiskey
Our Betty light whiskey is a celebration of Peoria native and feminist icon Betty Friedan. This limited-edition whiskey comes in an exclusive bottle, and part of the proceeds of every sale goes to support the Peoria Symphony Orchestra.
WHERE CAN I GET MORE?
Want a bottle or two of JK Williams for your home bar or liquor cabinet? Our spirits can be found in stores throughout central Illinois. Explore your area and find the nearest place to find some.