Dr. Sonat Birnecker, co-founder of KOVAL Distillery, started her business by personally introducing the brand to Chicago restaurants and bars while caring for her infant son. KOVAL was established in 2008 as the first distillery in Chicago since the mid-1800s, and it has grown to employ more than 50 people with international distribution.
Family involvement has been central to KOVAL’s operations from its earliest days. Dr. Sonat Birnecker noted that family members played roles in bottling, design, and other support functions when the company began. Even Dando Projects, which partnered with KOVAL for branding and packaging design, is operated by her sister.
The name “KOVAL” references both familial ancestry and Dr. Birnecker’s approach to running her business. She has emphasized that this identity reflects a tradition of resilience and ambition within her family.
When launching KOVAL, the founders faced legal barriers due to state laws preventing craft distillers from distributing their products directly or operating on-site bars. In response, Dr. Birnecker advocated for legislative changes in Springfield, Illinois: “She marched straight to Springfield, IL to get proposed, which would remove those restrictions. Dr. Sonat recalls.” With support from advocates, progress was made toward easing these regulations: “And with the support of countless advocates, they were able to move the needle in Springfield. Dr. Sonat says,”
During the COVID-19 pandemic, KOVAL shifted production to make hand sanitizer for medical organizations and nonprofits after learning about similar efforts at European distilleries: “Dr. Sonat and Dr. Robert had learned about distilleries in Europe who started making hand sanitizers to help their communities…” This transition also required changes at the federal regulatory level.
Community support played a key role during this period as breweries donated beer for distillation and suppliers contributed bottles and labels.
As one of few women leading a distillery business—a field often described as male-dominated—Dr. Birnecker addressed industry biases but highlighted women’s longstanding involvement: “She reminds us that the liquor industry has always involved women…”
Throughout challenges related to legislation and gender bias in the spirits sector, Dr. Birnecker credits strong female figures in her family as inspiration.
KOVAL Distillery remains headquartered at 4241 North Ravenswood Ave., Chicago.