There is a big addition to the business community in Sioux City.
Sioux City Distilling Company plans big things with the restoration of the historic Ogden or Wigman building on the west edge of downtown Sioux City.
There have been plenty of illicit stills over the decades, but Sioux City has never had a legal distillery within city limits in its entire history.
The SCDC website describes plans for an amazing production facility, a world class cocktail bar, large event spaces, a restaurant and more.
I did a walk and talk with Austin Foster, the brainchild of a major refurbishing of a classic industrial building for a new life as Sioux City Distilling Company. He gregariously shared a lot of tales about Sioux City history, which ties in with where the city first grew and the legacy of illicit stills, plus his aim to create unique experiences for people.
"This isn't unique because it is a distillery, it is unique among distilleries," Foster said.
Besides the refurbished location, one other key place associated with Sioux City Distilling Company is Juniper Hills. Foster and his team are actively growing juniper in the nearby Loess Hills for use in the gin that will be produced.
The distillery will produce gin, rum and whiskey, plus vodka and brandy. Most distilleries are state or national draws, and Foster wants Sioux City Distilling Company to be a regional draw.
"Our goal is to drive a lot of tourism." he said.
*Click on the audio link above to hear the entire show.
What's The Frequency, Episode 108.
