Sespe Creek Distillery operates from a 15,000 square foot facility in Oxnard, California, where founders Steve Gertman and Ross Johnson have been crafting spirits since 2015. Gertman, a former aerospace engineer, and Johnson, who comes from a wine industry background, decided to pivot into distilling after recognizing the potential for premium craft spirits on California’s coast. Their facility sits in Ventura County’s agricultural heartland, surrounded by the strawberry fields and citrus groves that influence some of their botanical selections. The distillery produces vodka, gin, whiskey, and seasonal spirits using a combination of traditional methods and modern equipment. What started as a passion project between two friends has evolved into a legitimate craft distillery that’s gained recognition throughout Southern California. The operation combines Gertman’s engineering precision with Johnson’s agricultural knowledge, creating spirits that reflect their coastal California location. You’ll find them personally involved in every aspect of production, from mash bills to bottle labeling. Their approach focuses on small batches and local sourcing when possible, though they’re realistic about scaling up to meet growing demand. The facility includes both production space and a tasting room where visitors can sample their range and learn about the distilling process directly from the founders.