SPRINGFIELD – DeKalb County’s Whiskey Acres Distilling Co. and Chef Heatley’s Hot Pepper Farm have been recognized among the Top 8 finalists in the Illinois Manufacturers’ Association’s “Coolest Things Made in Illinois” contest for 2025. Selected from more than 250 entries statewide, both companies were honored for their unique, locally crafted products, Whiskey Acres for its grain-to-glass spirits and Chef Heatley’s for its artisan hot sauces. The announcement took place April 9 at the Governor’s Mansion in Springfield.
