Our story
1994-1999: THe beginning
Andy Koenig (owner & Master Distiller) at his apprenticeship in Austria.Koenig Distillery began with a vision—one inspired by Old World traditions and brought to life in the heart of Idaho’s Sunnyslope wine region. Founder Andy Koenig first discovered the art of distillation while living in his father’s hometown of Lustenau, Austria, where clear fruit brandies made from local pears, apples, and plums are part of everyday life. He returned to Austria in 1995 to apprentice at a 400-year old distillery in the Austrian Alps, where centuries of craftsmanship shaped his understanding of what makes a truly exceptional spirit.
Back home in Idaho, Andy saw a unique opportunity. The Sunnyslope area was producing some of the state’s finest fruit. In 1995, Andy and his brother, Greg, planted the first orchard and vineyard on their newly acquired farm. This property became the foundation for what would become Koenig Distillery. By 1999, the distillery was officially established and the first fruit brandies were being crafted using the original copper still.
2000-2010: crafting spirits
Greg, Andy, and their father, Joe, with Koenig Distillery's brand new copper stills.As the Koenig brothers pursued their individual passions, Andy focused on distillation, while Greg grew the winemaking side of the business. Over time, Greg developed what became Koenig Vineyards, a winery that now resides nearby on the Sunnyslope. Today, Koenig Vineyards is under new ownership and operates independently from the Distillery.
In 2000, Andy married Jill who fills the role of Creative Director, overseeing marketing and customer experience across all areas of the Distillery.
During the years that followed, Koenig Distillery’s product line expanded with the introduction of Koenig Potato Vodka in 2005 and Koenig Huckleberry Vodka, made with wild mountain fruit, in 2009. The first barrels of bourbon were set aside in 2010 to age into what would become the Seven Devils Whiskey brand.
2011-2018: Growth & releases
Andy, his nephew, Alden, and Greg in the bones of the Tasting Room building.This period marked the release of two of Koenig’s flagship products: Seven Devils Bourbon Whiskey and Seven Devils Straight Rye Whiskey. As demand continued to rise, the Distillery expanded its infrastructure, including two new warehouses and a barrel house with the capacity to hold 4,000 whiskey barrels.
In 2018, Koenig Peach Vodka, made with estate grown fruit, was released further showcasing the connection between the land and spirit.
2019-2021: legacy & outreach
25 Year Anniversary Celebration in the Barrel House.To celebrate its 20th anniversary in 2019, Koenig released Seven Devils Barrel Proof Straight Bourbon Whiskey, commemorating two decades of craftsmanship. Construction began on the addition of a large-scale, on-site tasting room and event space in late 2020 and it officially opened in 2021.
It was during this time that Koenig Distillery began to focus on outreach into the community. During the pandemic, the Distillery pivoted to produce hand sanitizer for St. Luke’s Health Services, a major provider of health care in Central and Western Idaho and Oregon. Seven Devils also became the Official Whiskey sponsor of the Caldwell Night Rodeo, which included the launch of the Caldwell Night Rodeo Bourbon.
2023-2025: Innovating
Katrina and Jill with some valued Whiskey Club members.Koenig launched its Whiskey Club in 2023, offering exclusive access to limited releases and strengthening ties with its most loyal fans. In 2024, the Distillery proudly celebrated 25 years since it first opened its doors and released the first bottles of brandy.
Koenig continues to evolve and expand, with a new tequila brand in development and set to launch soon.
Check out more historical photos and videos that are a part of making Koenig Distillery what it is today!