History

Koenig Distillery was established in Caldwell, Idaho in 1999 by Andy Koenig, owner and Master Distiller, inspired by Old World traditions and the Northwest's ingredients. Andy learned distillation while living in his father's hometown of Lustenau, Austria, and in 1995 he returned to Austria to apprentice at a 400-year-old distillery in the Alps. Back in Idaho, Andy saw a unique opportunity in the Sunnyslope area, and in 1995 he and his brother Greg planted the first fruit and wine grapes on the newly acquired farm. This laid the foundation for Koenig Distillery, and in 1999 the distillery was officially established and the first fruit brandies were produced in the original copper pot still.

Production/Manufacturing

Koenig Distillery produces high-quality and accessible spirits by combining Old World distilling traditions with the Northwest's best ingredients. In 2000 Greg, Andy, and their father Joe led the distillery's growth; Andy focused on distillation, while Greg developed Koenig Vineyards. In 2000 Andy married Jill, who serves as Creative Director and oversees marketing and customer experience. The product line expanded with Koenig Potato Vodka (2005) and Koenig Huckleberry Vodka (2009); the first barrels for aging bourbon were put in place in 2010 and produced Seven Devils Whiskey. From 2011-2018, Seven Devils Bourbon Whiskey and Seven Devils Straight Rye Whiskey were launched as flagship products, and the infrastructure was expanded with two new warehouses and a barrel house for 4,000 barrels. In 2018 Koenig Peach Vodka was launched, made with estate fruit. In 2019-2021 they celebrated their 25th anniversary and launched Seven Devils Barrel Proof Straight Bourbon Whiskey; a large on-site tasting and event space was built, opening in 2021. During the pandemic the distillery produced hand sanitizer for St. Luke’s Health Services, and Seven Devils became the official whiskey sponsor for Caldwell Night Rodeo, which also launched Caldwell Night Rodeo Bourbon. In 2023 Koenig launched the Whisky Club with exclusive releases, and in 2024 they celebrated 25 years and released the first bottle of brandy; a new tequila brand is in development. The distillery also produces vodka and brandy from fruit and potatoes; all products are distilled in copper stills and hand-bottled.

Products / Whisky Series

Seven Devils Bourbon Whiskey: Bourbon (a mash of grains) aged in new charred oak barrels for at least four to five years, and the water comes from the Seven Devils mountain range. Their bourbon drinks well neat or as a base in an Old Fashioned. Seven Devils Straight Rye Whiskey: made from rye distillate, aged at least four years, with vanilla notes from the wood and a spicy finish. Seven Devils Barrel Proof Straight Bourbon Whiskey: originally a limited edition; now a permanent part of the range after aging for around eight years. Caldwell Night Rodeo Bourbon: a limited edition of Seven Devils with a high rye content in the mash and aged in new charred oak barrels, designed for Caldwell Night Rodeo. Barrel Proof Whiskey: a higher-proof edition of the Seven Devils lineup, originally produced as a special release. Sunnyslope Honey Liqueur: a honey liqueur based on Seven Devils Bourbon and Rye combined with estate honey. Koenig also produces brandy, such as Koenig Brandy (Pear Brandy, Apricot Brandy, Plum Brandy, Cherry Brandy), and has plans for a new tequila brand. In addition to whisky, the products include vodka and brandy, produced with locally sourced ingredients and copper stills.

Visit / Experiences

Koenig Distillery is located in the Sunnyslope region and features a Tasting Room where guests can sample three spirits per flight or opt for a mini cocktail flight. Tastings cost $10 per flight, and Idaho law allows only one flight per person per day. A valid photo ID is required to purchase spirits or a tasting flight. Reservations are recommended to ensure seating. Children are allowed under adult supervision; pets are encouraged to stay home. Outside food is allowed, but no alcohol may be brought in. Address: 20928 Grape Lane, Caldwell, ID 83607. Contact: info@koenigdistillery.com, (208) 459-8971. Hours: winter 12-5 p.m., daily. The Loft and Tasting Room are available to rent for events. There is an option for a self-guided tour of the distillery and Barrel House while visiting the shop.

Philosophy

Koenig combines Old World distilling traditions with the Northwest's best ingredients to create approachable and artisanal spirits. Copper stills are central to the process, and the fruit from Sunnyslope is actively used in brandy and fruit vodka. The distillery emphasizes hand-bottling and small batches, as well as a strong connection to the local community through initiatives such as hand sanitizer to health institutions and sponsorships like Caldwell Night Rodeo. Koenig continually expands its range (a new tequila brand in development) and focuses on preserving traditions while innovating.