How far is the distillery from Louisville?

Neeley Family Distillery is about 45 minutes northeast of Louisville in Sparta, Kentucky. It's in Gallatin County, off the main Bourbon Trail routes, so plan for a bit of a drive through rural Kentucky.

What makes their bourbon different from larger distilleries?

The Neeleys grow some of their own corn right on the property and handle most of the production themselves as a family operation. You're tasting spirits made in small batches with direct family involvement from grain to bottle, rather than mass-produced bourbon.

CRAFT DISTILLERY

Illinois

Take Flight Spirits

Skokie,

Illinois

— Vodka, Gin

TASTINGS

COCKTAILS

FAMILY FRIENDLY

BOTTLE SALES

DISTILLERY SNAPSHOT

📞 (847) 324-9373

🌐 http://www.takeflightspirits.com/

📍 8038 Lincoln Ave, Skokie, IL 60077, USA

ABOUT THIS DISTILLERY

Take Flight Spirits operates out of Skokie, Illinois, bringing craft distillation to Chicago’s north suburbs. Founded by a team passionate about aviation and spirits, the distillery combines small-batch production with a unique flight-themed concept that runs through everything from their branding to their tasting experiences. They focus on creating high-quality vodka, gin, and seasonal spirits using carefully selected ingredients and traditional distillation methods. The facility serves as both a production space and tasting room, where visitors can sample their core lineup and learn about the distillation process. You’ll find them in an industrial setting that’s been converted into a welcoming space for spirit enthusiasts and curious newcomers alike. The aviation theme isn’t just marketing fluff—it influences their approach to precision and attention to detail in every batch they produce.

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WHAT SETS THEM APART

Take Flight Spirits stands out for its aviation-inspired approach to craft distilling in suburban Chicago. The flight theme goes beyond just the name—they treat each spirit like a carefully planned journey, with attention to the precise details that make the difference between a good product and a great one. Their location in Skokie puts them in an interesting position as one of the few craft distilleries serving Chicago’s northern suburbs, making craft spirits more accessible to locals who don’t want to trek into the city for a quality tasting experience.

THE VISITOR EXPERIENCE

The tasting room has an industrial-meets-aviation vibe that feels authentic rather than forced. You’ll sample their spirits in flights (naturally), which lets you compare their different expressions and understand how their distillation choices affect the final product. The staff knows their products well and can walk you through the flavor profiles and production methods without getting too technical. The space feels intimate enough for conversation but professional enough that you know you’re getting quality spirits.

IS IT WORTH VISITING

If you’re in the northern Chicago suburbs and want to experience local craft spirits without the downtown hassle, Take Flight delivers. It’s particularly good for people who appreciate vodka and gin—their core strengths—rather than those looking primarily for aged whiskeys. The aviation theme might appeal to airplane enthusiasts, but the real draw is solid spirits made with care. Don’t expect a massive operation or elaborate tours, but you will get personal attention and quality products that represent the best of suburban craft distilling.

⚠️ VISITING TIPS

Call ahead or check their social media for current hours and availability, as small distilleries sometimes adjust their schedules seasonally. Parking shouldn’t be an issue in their Skokie location. If you’re new to gin or vodka tasting, ask about the differences in their production methods—the staff enjoys explaining how subtle changes in distillation affect the final spirit. Try their gin if you’re a cocktail person, as it’s designed to work well in mixed drinks while still being smooth enough to sip neat.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Take Flight Spirits — Visitor FAQ

What types of spirits does Take Flight Spirits produce?

They focus primarily on vodka and gin, with occasional seasonal offerings. Their aviation theme influences their precise approach to distillation, resulting in clean, well-crafted spirits that work well both neat and in cocktails.

Do I need to make a reservation for tastings?

Reservations aren’t typically required, but it’s smart to call ahead or check their social media for current hours and availability. As a smaller operation, they sometimes adjust their schedule seasonally.

Is Take Flight Spirits family-friendly?

Yes, families are welcome. While the adults enjoy tastings, kids can learn about the distillation process (the non-alcoholic parts) and appreciate the aviation-themed decor. The industrial space is interesting for visitors of all ages.

GETTING THERE

Find Take Flight Spirits

📍8038 Lincoln Ave, Skokie, IL 60077, USA

—

📞 (847) 324-9373

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