Burnt Barn Distilling Co. sits on Wayland Road in Paradise, California, a town that knows something about rising from ashes. Founded by Jeff and Colleen Steber, this craft distillery emerged from their shared passion for creating quality spirits in the Sierra Nevada foothills. The Stebers converted a rural property into their distilling operation, complete with custom copper stills and a tasting room that feels more like visiting friends than a commercial venture. They focus on small-batch bourbon, rye, and seasonal spirits that capture the character of their Northern California location. The journey to opening wasn’t typical—Jeff brought years of home distilling experience and engineering background to the operation, while Colleen handles the business side and visitor experience. They spent considerable time perfecting their recipes and navigating California’s complex distilling regulations before opening their doors. The couple’s approach centers on hands-on production, with Jeff personally overseeing every batch from grain to bottle. Their philosophy leans heavily toward traditional methods with modern precision, using locally sourced ingredients when possible. Visitors find themselves in an intimate setting where you can actually talk to the people making your spirits. The tasting room doubles as an education center, with clear views into the production area and the Stebers often available to explain their process. The atmosphere strikes a balance between professional craft distilling and the personal touch you’d expect from a family operation. It’s the kind of place where conversations about mash bills happen naturally, and you leave understanding more about distilling than when you arrived.