Bold Spirits of DeKalb County

The Midwest is known for its craftsmen.  They are the hard-working men and women who take pride in their work—rugged individuals who spend long hours driven by the desire to produce perfection with their own hands.  From farming to furniture-making, industry to small business – this legendary work ethic is more than just an ideal, it’s a part of the culture.

Nowhere is this pride of craftsmanship more apparent than within the brewers, wine-makers, and distillers of DeKalb County.  From award-winning wines to signature craft beer to hard spirits enjoyed by visitors from around the world, these makers produce bold flavors that can’t be found anywhere else.  All located within a short drive of DeKalb, travelers find themselves with the unique proposition of visiting five different establishments with a wide variety of offerings.  Locally-produced, these makers offer tours of wine-making, brewing, and distilling that will leave visitors with a newfound sense of appreciation for the work that goes into producing some of the finest spirits in the US.

Make the trip.  Visit the makers.  Discover the Bold Spirits of DeKalb County.

Mark your calendars for Huskie Hour with NIU & DeKalb County Bold Spirits

  • Friday October 13, 3-5PM at Jonamac Orchard for Huskie Hour and boldly kick off the 116 Homecoming weekend.
  • Huskie Hour is a unique local event hosted by our DeKalb County Bold Spirits friends, the DeKalb County Convention and Visitor Bureau and the NIU Alumni Association.
  • Join fellow local Huskie fans and NIU alumni for an afternoon Bold Spirited fun featuring unique Huskie themed cocktails made with local DeKalb County Bold Spirits.
  • Tickets are $30 and include drink tickets, festive snacks, live music, a keepsake Bold Spirit glass, and all the memories you can make under a tent for fun rain or shine.