What started as a simple winemaking hobby turned into Star Union Spirits, a thriving distillery in Peru, Illinois. Host John Klemm sits down with co-owner Bob Windy to talk about their journey and the role Illinois-grown corn plays in every bottle.
Highlights from the Episode:
00:22 — Meet Bob Windy & the story behind Star Union Spirits
01:18 — From backyard winemaking to running a full distillery
02:02 — Why they chose Peru & the historic Westclox Factory
02:21 — Growing from brandy into whiskey, vodka & gin
02:46 — Using Illinois corn: inside the distilling process
04:20 — Challenges with distribution & expanding the brand
05:04 — How they pivoted during the pandemic with hand sanitizer
05:38 — Spotlight on their 75/25 light whiskey
06:09 — Preserving history at the Westclox Factory
08:06 — Supporting local farmers & building community ties
08:37 — Creating a Midwest-style absinthe
09:18 — Not To Be Corny: Spirits with “good timing”
09:48 — Wrapping it up
Discover more about Star Union Spirits:
Website: https://www.starunionspirits.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/starunionspirits/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/explore/locations/1875185836048293/star-union-spirits/
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