Whiskey Acres, an esteemed “seed to spirit” estate distillery in Dekalb, IL, is owned by a trio of passionate individuals who have deep roots in farming and a shared commitment to crafting exceptional spirits. The owners of Whiskey Acres are Jamie Walter, Jim Walter, and Nick Nagele.
Jamie Walter, co-founder, president, and CEO of Whiskey Acres, brings his expertise as a fifth-generation farmer to the distillery. Growing up on his family's farm, he developed a strong connection to the land and a deep appreciation for the agricultural process. Jamie's knowledge of farming practices and his understanding of the importance of quality ingredients play a vital role in the creation of Whiskey Acres' spirits.
Jim Walter, also a co-founder of Whiskey Acres, brings his own unique perspective to the distillery. As a fifth-generation farmer himself, Jim shares Jamie's passion for the land and the farming heritage. His expertise in crop management and his dedication to sustainable farming practices contribute to the distillery's commitment to using locally grown grains in their spirits.
Nick Nagele, the third co-founder of Whiskey Acres, serves as the vice president and COO. With a background in finance and operations, Nick brings a valuable business acumen to the distillery. His experience in managing operations and ensuring the smooth running of the business allows Whiskey Acres to thrive and grow.
Together, Jamie Walter, Jim Walter, and Nick Nagele form a dynamic team that combines their unique skills and shared passion for farming and spirits. Their collective vision and dedication to quality have propelled Whiskey Acres to become a renowned distillery, known for its exceptional “seed to spirit” approach.
The owners of Whiskey Acres not only oversee the day-to-day operations of the distillery but also actively participate in every aspect of the distillation process. They work closely with local farmers to select and grow the grains used in their spirits, ensuring that only the highest quality ingredients are used. This hands-on approach reflects their commitment to crafting spirits that truly capture the essence of the land and the region.
As an expert sommelier and brewer, I have had the pleasure of tasting Whiskey Acres' spirits and witnessing the dedication and passion that the owners bring to their craft. Their commitment to sustainable farming, local sourcing, and meticulous attention to detail is evident in every sip. Whiskey Acres stands as a testament to the power of a shared vision and the pursuit of excellence in the world of craft distilling.