Two DeKalb County standouts—Whiskey Acres Distilling Co. and Chef Heatley’s Hot Pepper Farm—have earned statewide recognition as finalists in the Illinois Manufacturers’ Association (IMA) “Coolest Things Made in Illinois” contest, ranking among the Top 8 Best Things Made in Illinois for 2025.

This annual competition celebrates innovation, craftsmanship, and entrepreneurship across the state. Whiskey Acres, known for its “seed-to-spirit” craft distilling approach, and Chef Heatley’s, which specializes in artisan hot sauces that leave your taste buds tingling, stood out among hundreds of nominations from across Illinois.

Representatives from both Whiskey Acres (Nick Nagele) and Chef Heatley’s (Chef David Heatley and Melissa Gawecki) joined Melissa Amedeo, Executive Director of the DeKalb County Economic Development Corporation (DCEDC), and Cortney Strohacker, Executive Director of the DeKalb County Convention and Visitors Bureau (DCCVB), at the winner announcement on April 9th at the Governor’s Mansion in Springfield.

“This recognition shines a spotlight on the incredible talent and passion that exists right here in DeKalb County,” said Amedeo. “Whiskey Acres and Chef Heatley’s are not only local favorites—they’re helping define what makes Illinois manufacturing so special.”

“We are thrilled to see Whiskey Acres and Chef Heatley’s recognized among the best in Illinois,” said Cortney Strohacker, Executive Director of the DCCVB. “Their innovative products highlight our community’s talent and showcase DeKalb County as a vibrant destination for culinary and craftsmanship excellence. This honor reflects our commitment to celebrating our region’s unique offerings. DeKalb County is home to the coolest things!”

“To be recognized alongside some of the most iconic names in Illinois manufacturing is truly humbling,” said Nick Nagele, co-founder of Whiskey Acres. “We’ve always believed in the power of growing local, crafting with purpose, and sharing something authentic—and this honor reinforces that mission.”

“When we started bottling hot sauce in small batches, we never imagined this kind of recognition,” added Chef David Heatley. “It’s a win not just for our farm, but for everyone in DeKalb County who’s passionate about food, flavor, and fearless creativity.”

The IMA contest drew over 250 entries. The field was narrowed to the top 16, then the top 8, and finally the top 4 finalists.

Whiskey Acres and Chef Heatley’s are great examples of DeKalb County’s growing reputation as a hub for innovation and manufacturing. Their success underscores the county’s “Opportunity Unbound” spirit.

About DCEDC

The DeKalb County Economic Development Corporation is committed to sustaining and growing the economic vitality of DeKalb County through business attraction, retention, and expansion initiatives, workforce pipeline, and population growth.

About DCCVB

The DeKalb County Convention and Visitors Bureau promotes the county as a premier destination for visitors, celebrating its culture, heritage, and events.