KOVAL Distillery was founded in 2008 by Robert and Sonat Birnecker Hart in Chicago, Illinois, making it the city's first distillery since the mid-1800s. Established at a time when distilling regulations in Illinois had barely changed since the 1930s, KOVAL helped pioneer a new era of craft distilling in the Midwest. The distillery is located in the Ravenswood neighborhood on Chicago's North Side and operates as a fully grain-to-bottle operation, sourcing and processing its grains entirely in-house. KOVAL is known for its organic whiskeys, gins, brandies, vodka, and liqueurs, with a portfolio that spans a wide range of creative expressions. The distillery has built a strong reputation for its approachable, bright flavor profiles and distinctive, innovative packaging and design. KOVAL Bourbon is among its most celebrated expressions, recently selected for United Airlines' Club 2026 beverage program — a testament to the brand's growing prestige. As a family-owned operation, KOVAL distributes its award-winning spirits globally and has earned over 100 international awards. The brand continues to push boundaries in American craft distilling, combining Old World craftsmanship with a thoroughly modern Chicago spirit.