Iowa Distilling Company sits in Cumming, Iowa, about 20 minutes northwest of Des Moines, in what used to be a simple industrial building. Founded by a group of local spirits enthusiasts who wanted to bring craft distilling to central Iowa, they’ve been quietly making bourbon, rye, and vodka since opening their doors. The operation focuses on small-batch production using locally sourced grains when possible, working with Iowa farmers to get corn and other ingredients that reflect the agricultural character of the region. The founders came from various backgrounds but shared a fascination with the distilling process and saw an opportunity to fill a gap in Iowa’s craft spirits scene. They started with basic equipment but have gradually expanded their setup as demand grew, learning the nuances of their craft through trial and plenty of error. The team takes a hands-on approach to everything from mashing to bottling, and you can usually find one of the founders on-site during operating hours. Visitors get a straightforward look at how spirits are made without a lot of fancy marketing polish. The space feels like a working distillery first and a tourist attraction second, which some people love and others might find less polished than bigger operations. You can taste their current offerings, see the production equipment up close, and usually get honest answers about what works and what they’re still figuring out.