Ozark Distillery sits along State Highway KK in Osage Beach, right in the heart of Missouri’s Lake of the Ozarks region. Founded by Dennis and Pam Ray in 2010, this craft distillery emerged from Dennis’s longtime fascination with traditional distilling methods and his desire to create premium spirits using local ingredients. The operation runs out of a 5,000-square-foot facility that houses their custom-built copper pot still and fermentation tanks, where they produce bourbon, moonshine, and flavored spirits that capture the essence of the Ozarks. Dennis Ray brings decades of business experience to the operation, but his real passion lies in perfecting the art of small-batch distillation. The couple spent years researching historical distilling techniques and sourcing the right equipment before opening their doors to the public. They focus on using Missouri corn and other regional grains when possible, working with local farmers to maintain that connection to the land. The distillery’s approach centers on traditional methods combined with modern precision, allowing them to control every aspect of production from grain to bottle. Visitors get an authentic look at craft distilling in action, with tours that take you through the entire production process. The tasting room offers samples of their various spirits, from their signature bourbon to their more adventurous flavored moonshines. It’s a straightforward operation where you can actually see the stills working and talk directly with the people who make the spirits. The atmosphere is relaxed and educational, making it accessible for both spirits enthusiasts and curious tourists exploring the Lake of the Ozarks area.