Cold Weather Cocktails with Judson & Moore

Judson & Moore stands out as one of the Chicago region’s newer distilleries, capturing attention quickly with its four varieties of finely crafted whiskey since its launch in mid-2022. Situated in a former leather tannery at 3057 N. Rockwell Street in the Avondale neighborhood, the distillery plays a key role in the Rockwell on the River complex. This complex includes an event space, Metropolitan Brewing, Metropolis Coffee Roasters, and Soul and Smoke barbecue restaurant.

Upon entering Judson & Moore, you find yourself in the tasting room, adorned with tables and an extended bar. Whether the weather is chilly or not, you might be tempted to order a Hot Toddy or Hot Cider, and the recipes for these delightful beverages are shared here.

The owners, Collin Moore (head distiller) and Elise Bergman (hospitality focus), are a married couple who have managed to create a welcoming atmosphere despite facing substantial challenges. These challenges include a fire just after securing the property in 2015 and the tragic death of Elise’s father, Judson, a partner in the project, in a 2019 auto accident.

Then came COVID, which delayed the opening. However, Moore views it as a bit of a blessing in disguise. The couple decided to focus on aged whiskeys, omitting clear spirits like vodka, gin, and white whiskey, which many new distilleries produce to get products into consumers’ hands quickly.

“We needed a good couple of years anyway,” Moore explained. “So it’s like, well, let’s just lay down as much whiskey as we can and let it age, and we will go to market when we can.”

Judson & Moore welcomes the public on Thursdays and Fridays from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m., Saturdays from 2 p.m. to 8 p.m., and Sundays from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. Distillery tours are also available.