GRAIN TO BOTTLE
A New Wave of Craft Spirits
FROM HUMBLE BEGINNINGS TO GLOBAL IMPACT
Founded in 2008 by husband-and-wife team, Dr. Robert Birnecker and Dr. Sonat Birnecker Hart, KOVAL began as the first distillery to open in Chicago since the mid-1800s. Prior to starting the distillery, Sonat and Robert had established careers in government and academia, but chose to forge a new path together. Their goal with KOVAL was to marry centuries of tradition from Robert’s Austrian distilling heritage with state-of-the-art modern technologies – all with the aim of bringing heightened levels of consistency and creativity to the world of spirits. Today, it stands as a testament to growth, independence, and pioneering spirit, playing a pivotal role in shaping the craft spirits industry in the United States.
KOVAL’s founders have also used their experience and knowledge to educate thousands of people in the art of craft distilling. Through their consulting with Kothe Distilling Technologies, they have helped set up over 200 new distilleries all around the world, ushering in a new wave of craft spirits internationally.
A DISTINCTIVE APPROACH
At the heart of KOVAL’s distinction lies its commitment to using only the finest quality distillate, known as “The Heart Cut.” This meticulous process yields clean and bright flavour profiles, accentuating the unique grains employed in every bottle. The result is an extraordinary line of whiskey, gin, and specialty spirits that has garnered over 100 international awards.
FROM HUMBLE BEGINNINGS TO GLOBAL IMPACT
Founded in 2008 by husband-and-wife team, Dr. Robert Birnecker and Dr. Sonat Birnecker Hart, KOVAL began as the first distillery to open in Chicago since the mid-1800s. Prior to starting the distillery, Sonat and Robert had established careers in government and academia, but chose to forge a new path together. Their goal with KOVAL was to marry centuries of tradition from Robert’s Austrian distilling heritage with state-of-the-art modern technologies – all with the aim of bringing heightened levels of consistency and creativity to the world of spirits.
A DISTINCTIVE APPROACH
At the heart of KOVAL’s distinction lies its commitment to using only the finest quality distillate, known as “The Heart Cut.” This meticulous process yields clean and bright flavour profiles, accentuating the unique grains employed in every bottle. The result is an extraordinary line of whiskey, gin, and specialty spirits that has garnered over 100 international awards.
WHAT MAKES KOVAL UNIQUE?
As one of the largest fully independent and woman-owned distilleries in the United States, KOVAL has earned its reputation as a creative force in the world of spirits. Based in the vibrant city of Chicago, Illinois, KOVAL is a powerhouse in the craft distillery scene, proudly showcasing a commitment to excellence through a “Grain to Bottle” approach.
100% SINGLE GRAIN:
KOVAL offers single grain, single Midwestern origin whiskeys. All of which are single barrel.
UNIQUE GRAINS:
KOVAL uses unmalted grains allowing the unadulterated essence of the natural grains (rye, millet, and oat) to shine through.
PREMIUM HEART CUT:
Only the “fillet” of the distillate is used, ensuring a brighter, cleaner, grain-forward whiskey with no tails.
STATE-OF-THE-ART TECHNOLOGY:
Employing cutting-edge technology to maintain consistency in mashing and distillation processes.
TRANSPARENCY:
Single Barrel Whiskeys: Each bottle can be traced back to the specific field where the grains were grown.
BOURBON OVERPROOF:
KOVAL’s bourbon, a unique blend of corn and millet, is bottled at 47% alc., setting it apart in the market.
INDEPENDENT AND WOMAN-OWNED:
As a family-operated, woman-owned establishment, KOVAL is dedicated to maintaining its independence and distinctive character.
GIN:
KOVAL uses its white rye spirit to craft its gin, distinguishing it from gins produced from neutral alcohol which are then infused with botanicals.
KOTHE STILL
KOVAL’s state-of-the-art still, crafted by Germany’s renowned KOTHE, incorporates energy-saving techniques and sustainable materials. Master Distiller Robert Birnecker’s pioneering efforts in technology ensure KOVAL’s ability to monitor and maintain consistency, setting the standard for American craft-scale distilleries. The pot still, specifically made to produce whiskey and brandy, has an elongated whiskey helmet, a special distillation column and a unique bubblecap construction that provides greater surface area for the spirits to develop aroma and flavour. The smooth, unhammered copper pot still – combined with the dedication and savoir faire of our distillers – guarantees high quality and aromatic distillates with a 5000L capacity.
COMMITMENT TO COMMUNITY AND SUSTAINABILITY
KOVAL’s dedication extends beyond crafting exceptional spirits. The distillery actively gives back to the community, having donated millions of dollars in products and services to charitable causes. Certified USDA organic and OU kosher, KOVAL also engages in regenerative farming, energy-saving technologies, and upcycling initiatives, ensuring a sustainable and responsible approach to its craft. In a recent act of local generosity, the distillery donated a few cases of its Single Barrel Bourbon and Dry Gin from the first shipment to South Africa to the Durban Holocaust and Genocide Centre.
COMMITMENT TO COMMUNITY AND SUSTAINABILITY
KOVAL’s dedication extends beyond crafting exceptional spirits. The distillery actively gives back to the community, having donated millions of dollars in products and services to charitable causes. Certified USDA organic and OU kosher, KOVAL also engages in regenerative farming, energy-saving technologies, and upcycling initiatives, ensuring a sustainable and responsible approach to its craft. In a recent act of local generosity, the distillery donated a few cases of its Single Barrel Bourbon and Dry Gin from the first shipment to South Africa to the Durban Holocaust and Genocide Centre.
