DECATUR, Ill. (WAND) — A handcrafted dream is becoming reality in the heart of downtown Decatur. A new distillery is pouring more than just spirits into their bottles — they’re pouring in local flavor, family history, and small-town pride.
Brentford Distillers, a locally owned and operated business, is preparing to open its doors later this month. The business is led by husband-and-wife duo Anita Ashford-Brent and Anthony Brent, who started distilling as a hobby.
"It really started back in 2020..." Tony Brent, Co-Owner shares. "My wife bought a little still that we and the kids put together, and then got a bigger still, and ended up here!"
What began in their home kitchen is now a full-fledged distillery featuring a vintage vibe and a strong connection to the land around them.
The grains used in their spirits come from Dalton City, while their fruits and vegetables, used in specialty flavors, are sourced from Taylorville.
Anita Brent, Tony's wife and co-owner, shared, "We have the vodka, a spicy vodka, and a cinnamon whiskey."
But Brentford Distillers is about more than just what’s in the bottle. The space itself is a tribute to the couple’s roots.
"There's a picture on the wall of my great grandmother. There's doors on the walls that came from the houses. Even the light fixture is a log from the house I grew up in," Anita told WAND News.
The Brents hope to offer more than just spirits. They want to create a space where locals and visitors alike can get a true taste of Decatur — one sip at a time.
They are hopeful to have their doors open to the public by the end of June 2025.
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