Today we’d like to introduce you to Brock Berglund.
Hi Brock, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for sharing your story with us – to start, maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers.
Our journey at Ida Graves Distillery began with curiosity and a passion for sustainable, craft-focused drinks. My home-brewing hobby sparked a more profound interest in distilling and the unique flavor profiles it could offer. Together with my wife, Anna, we ventured into creating spirits that tasted exceptional and aligned with our values. Our 77-acre property, which includes federally-protected wetlands and prairie in Alexandria, enriched with natural ingredients and onsite beehives, became the heart of our distillery. Each bottle we craft is a testament to our commitment to simplicity, sustainability, and the Minnesota landscape.
Would it have been a smooth road, and if not, what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
The road for Ida Graves Distillery has been challenging at times. The onset of the pandemic was a significant hurdle, resulting in the loss of 90% of our accounts, which was a substantial setback. At the time, we had only been on retail shelves for about 6 months. Additionally, balancing family life, particularly raising two children while nurturing this business, has been a complex yet rewarding journey. Commuting Minneapolis to Alexandria every weekend for the first two years posed challenges. I would drive up to Alexandria, pull two all-nighters, and drive home to Alexandria Sunday evening to start the work week at my 9 to 5 job. These experiences, though difficult, have been integral to our growth and the distillery’s story.
I appreciate you sharing that. What should we know about Ida Graves Distillery?
Ida Graves Distillery is more than just a spirits producer; it’s a story of passion, sustainability, and innovation. Located in rural Minnesota, we craft unique and differentiated spirits that reflect our ideals, including vodka, gin, aquavit, and amaro. We’re known for using locally sourced, organic ingredients, emphasizing honey from our onsite hives. Our approach sets us apart by blending traditional distilling with inventive flavors, reflecting Minnesota’s rich landscape. We’re proud of maintaining sustainability and simplicity in our growth. We invite readers to experience the distinctiveness of our spirits, each embodying our commitment to quality and the community.
What does success mean to you?
We want this to be a generational business. Whether Ida Graves Distillery passes down to our children or others, we define success as sustainable growth that takes into account the well-being of our people, community, and environment.
Pricing:
- Amaro – $30
- Organic Aquavit – $32
- Organic Gin – $30
- Vodka – $40
- Cache Vodka – $20
Contact Info:
- Website: www.idagraves.com
- Instagram: ida_graves_distillery
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/p/Ida-Graves-Distillery-100083811391315/
Image Credits
All photos are credited to Dallas Curry
