Windows Distillery sits at 421 N California Street in downtown Sycamore, Illinois, housed in a converted historic building that feels more like stepping into someone’s passion project than a typical tourist attraction. Founded by husband-and-wife team Dan and Lisa Tarman in 2018, this small-batch operation emerged from Dan’s background in engineering and Lisa’s experience in hospitality, combining technical precision with a welcoming atmosphere. They produce vodka, gin, and whiskey in small quantities using traditional copper pot stills. The Tarmans didn’t stumble into distilling by accident. Dan spent years perfecting recipes at home while working his day job, and Lisa handled the business side while they navigated Illinois’ complex distilling regulations. Getting their federal and state licenses took nearly two years, but they used that time to renovate their downtown space and dial in their production methods. The result is a cozy tasting room where you can actually see the production area and chat with the people making your spirits. What strikes you first is how hands-on everything feels here. This isn’t mass production disguised as craft—they’re making maybe a few hundred bottles per batch, and Dan can tell you exactly what went into each one. The tasting room has that lived-in feel where regulars know the staff by name, and newcomers get the same attention whether they’re buying a bottle or just curious about the process. It’s the kind of place that makes you appreciate what small-batch actually means.