Peoria-based JK Williams Distilling recently was named “Best in State” for its Gold Zephyr Bourbon in the American Craft Spirits Association (ASCA) Heartland Whiskey Competition.

Gold Zephyr Straight Bourbon Whiskey is a four-year bourbon made with using an 80% local corn, 10% wheat, 10% malted barley mash bill. It has an SRP of $59.99. 

The competition was open to craft whiskeys from all 50 states who incorporate corn in their mash bill. The Best in State trophies were limited to 17 Heartland states and awarded to those whiskeys with the highest single-product score in its respective state, regardless of whiskey category. 

“Not many people know that Peoria was once the ‘Whiskey Capital of the World’ producing more whiskey than the entire state of Kentucky,” said JK Williams President Andy Faris. “It’s an honor to be able to bring this award back to the city of Peoria, which has such a rich history of distilling.” 

The brand, which pays homage to Peoria’s rich distilling history, is available at retail throughout Central Illinois and has plans to expand its reach.