Elevated dog-themed distillery opening this year in historic schoolhouse

A historic 1800s schoolhouse is being transformed into a 1920s-themed distillery, complete with velvet and leather accents, cozy exposed brick, antique lighting, a hanging chandelier, and exquisite cocktails. And the best part? Your furry friends are more than welcome to join!

Kevin and Lauri Webb are partnering with their friends and new business partners, Kelly and Wes Stark, to launch their latest venture at 3773 East Powell Rd., called DoG Distilling Company. All four are lifelong dog lovers, and this project celebrates not only their friendship but also their dedication to their pups.

The Webbs began distilling spirits at home under the name Distillers of Galena LLC (DoG), and soon realized they wanted to open a tasting room to share their creations with the community. When they discovered the old schoolhouse (previously a Christmas decor shop and pottery studio), they knew it was the perfect location. “We thought this would be an awesome space as soon as we saw it,” Kevin remarked.

He added, “It still has the original exposed brick walls, and the previous owners removed some of the second and third floors, creating a spacious, open area from floor to ceiling.” They plan to preserve the historic charm while enhancing the property with a production building behind the schoolhouse, a full bar, patio, and a firepit area.

Guests will enjoy house-made vodkas infused with locally sourced corn, as well as gin, with whiskey and bourbon to follow. DoG Vodka and DoG Gin will be available for purchase on-site and in local stores. “My wife and I have also been making our own flavored vodka from fruits,” said Kevin. “So we’re going to take what we’ve done at home and scale it up.”

Their logo features their white German Shepherd, Brinley, while their puppy Zoe will serve as the distillery’s official dog.

Kevin emphasized that their cocktails will be far more than just whiskey and Cokes. “We’ll have the look, the presentation, and the taste,” he said. Their bar consultant has been nominated as one of the Top 100 Bartenders in the U.S. and even placed in the Top 30.

Patrons can indulge in small plates and upscale snacks from their newly built kitchen, with a rotation of local food trucks also on-site regularly.

DoG Distilling Company is set to open this fall, hopefully in October or November, depending on construction and inspections. In the meantime, check out their website!

I’ve told my dogs, and they’re already barking in anticipation.