In 1920s Prohibition-era California, Ventura’s coastline buzzed with quiet defiance. By night, ships like the infamous Grey Ghost slipped through the fog from the Channel Islands, ferrying contraband spirits from floating speakeasies anchored just beyond the three-mile limit. This was Rum Row—where Caribbean liquor awaited daring smugglers willing to risk everything to bring it ashore. The rugged Channel Islands provided perfect cover, and soon, local fishermen became rum runners by night, driven by the belief that truly exceptional spirits were worth the risk.

Nearly a century later, Channel Islands Distillery was born to honor that same spirit of independence—not through rebellion, but through craftsmanship. Founded in 2013 as Ventura County’s first legal distillery, we handcraft bold, smooth spirits with a sense of adventure. Inspired by the region’s maritime legacy, we distill every bottle using the finest ingredients this beautiful region has to offer—continuing the story that began on these very shores.

But our roots run deeper than tradition.

Channel Islands Distillery is the product of decades of scientific expertise and environmental stewardship. Our founders and head distiller bring backgrounds in environmental toxicology, with careers spanning marine and freshwater bioassay labs, water quality monitoring, and the development of methods for major environmental programs across the West Coast. Their leadership in ELAP-certified labs, participation in statewide research, and active roles in professional organizations reflect an unwavering commitment to scientific integrity and operational excellence.

This rare blend of precision and passion—of science and spirit—defines who we are. Every bottle we produce is the result of exacting standards, deep respect for the natural world, and an unbreakable bond to these shores. Rebellious spirits. Refined by craft.