Ironroot Republic Distilling sits on a 40-acre property in Denison, Texas, founded in 2014 by husband-and-wife team Robert and Marcia Likarish. Robert brought serious credentials to the operation—he’s a former nuclear engineer who turned his analytical mind toward perfecting bourbon and whiskey production. The distillery operates out of a custom-built facility where they focus on Texas-made spirits using locally-sourced grains and innovative aging techniques. The Likarishes didn’t stumble into distilling by accident. Robert spent years researching fermentation science and barrel aging before they committed to the business, even traveling to Scotland to study whiskey production firsthand. They launched with a clear philosophy: create spirits that reflect Texas terroir while respecting traditional methods. Marcia handles much of the business operations while Robert stays focused on production and recipe development. What you’ll find here is a working distillery that takes its craft seriously but doesn’t take itself too seriously. The facility includes their production area with custom copper stills, barrel storage, and a tasting room where you can sample their growing lineup of bourbon, rye, and experimental releases. They’ve built a reputation for innovation in aging—experimenting with different oak treatments and even using mesquite wood to add distinctly Texas flavors to their spirits.