Denison -- Good things have been brewing in Denison lately, where a colorful rejuvenated downtown, a growing tax base and an influx of new jobs have resulted from an impressive spirit of cooperation. And a "spirited" news conference Thursday, September 19 revealed that Denison will soon be home to the newest artisan distillery in Texas.
According to Denison Mayor Jared Johnson, Ironroot Republic Distillery will occupy a 15,000 square-foot building -- a former boat dealership just east of the intersection of U.S. 75 and Loy Lake Road -- which is currently the only vacancy along the U.S. 75 corridor.
Ironroot Republic Distillery, the brainchild of brothers Jonathan Likarish and Robert Likarish, will be more than just an entertainment destination -- it will also benefit local farmers. While initial offerings include a unique vodka and two flavors of gin, the brothers have plans to produce several types of whiskey and brandy.
"We will buy local grain and take it all the way to the end of the process," explained Robert Likarish, an Austin College grad who went on to study at St. Louis University School of Law. "We truly believe in the intrinsic value of starting and finishing a product locally."
The brothers carefully scrutinized several possible sites, including Corsicana and Lubbock, before deciding on Denison.
"It had to do with the people here," explained Robert. "Denison has it going on!"
This dream began three years ago when the Likarish brothers visited Dry Fly Distilling in Spokane, Washington. Next came extensive training in Waco and Chicago. Renovation at their 3111 Loy Lake Road location should be completed by the end of the year. If all goes according to plan, by spring 2014 tours will begin and some of Ironroot Republic's distinctive liquor will be available.
The expansive facility will offer a specialty cocktail bar, but that is only the beginning. This location comes with a vast parking lot and the Likarish brothers envision car shows, barbecues and a variety of community events at Ironroot Republic Distillery.
"We are very proud they chose Denison," remarked Robert Brady, a former mayor of Denison and current Denison Development Alliance Board Chairman. "It is a new industry that is creating a lot of excitement, especially among the younger generation."
