ILLINOIS – The Illinois Liquor Control Commission (ILCC) recognizes the importance of Illinois’ hospitality industry and the vital role it plays in supporting economic development throughout the state. Illinois breweries, brew pubs, distilleries, and wineries not only create jobs, but also serve as gathering places where communities come together to celebrate and connect. To continue supporting our licensees and promoting these businesses, the ILCC now offers a Brewery, Brew Pub, Distillery & Winery Directory on the ILCC website at www.ilcc.illinois.gov. The directory may be downloaded directly, or users may utilize the interactive geo-targeted map to locate businesses throughout Illinois based on their location.
Industry types explained:
- Brewery: A brewery is a facility where beer is produced through the fermentation of starches from cereal grains.
- Brew Pub: A brewpub is a brewery-and-restaurant-hybrid. It produces and sells beer alongside a full food menu.
- Distillery: A distillery is a facility where liquor is produced through the process of distillation. Examples of liquor include whiskey, vodka, and rum.
- Winery: A winery is a facility where wine is produced through the crushing, fermenting, clarifying, and aging of grapes.
“From the intricate art of distilling spirits to the delicate process of winemaking and the innovative creations of brewers, this directory encapsulates the diversity and passion within the Illinois brewing, distiller and wine industry,” said ILCC Executive Director Lisa Gardner. “Please use this directory to find nearby businesses, or to plan a tasting journey. We hope you enjoy discovering new favorites and revisiting old haunts. Salud!”
As the summer approaches and the cost of travel, entertainment, and everyday expenses continue to rise, there’s never been a better time to rediscover the experiences waiting right here in Illinois.
Whether you’re exploring a new town for the day, attending a community event with friends, or simply spending an evening on a patio enjoying local food and drinks, planning local outings is not only a budget-friendly way to make the most of the season, but also a meaningful opportunity to support the small businesses, family-owned restaurants, neighborhood venues, and local vendors that help make Illinois such a vibrant and unique place to live. Get out and explore this summer, and as always, if you consume alcohol, remember to drink responsibly, plan ahead, and keep yourself and others safe.
About the Illinois Liquor Control Commission
The Illinois Liquor Control Commission’s mission is to protect the health, safety, and welfare of the people of Illinois through careful control and regulation of the manufacture, distribution, and sale of alcoholic liquors and through the development of strategies to reduce youth access to alcohol products and the provision of training and education on responsible beverage service.
To learn more about the ILCC and its divisions, visit www.ILCC.Illinois.gov. To submit a tip or complaint to the ILCC’s Enforcement Division, click here.