Erik and Karin Vonk revolutionize Georgia's rum industry
- Richland Rum was established by Erik and Karin Vonk on a 70-acre estate in Georgia.
- Georgia's craft spirits industry began to flourish after legislative changes in 2017 allowing direct sales from distilleries.
- The success of Richland Rum demonstrates the possibility of combining personal passions with business, leading to a celebrated brand in the local distilling scene.
In recent years, Georgia has witnessed a remarkable transformation in its craft spirits industry, primarily due to legislative changes that have made production more feasible. Until the turn of the century, rum production in the state was virtually non-existent due to complicated liquor laws. However, in 2017, significant reforms enabled distilleries to sell their products directly from their facilities, paving the way for a renaissance in local craft distilling. This success story is embodied in the work of Erik and Karin Vonk, a Dutch couple who left their corporate jobs to establish a farm-to-glass distillery called Richland Rum on a 70-acre estate two hours south of Atlanta. The couple began their journey as a retirement hobby, gradually evolving Richland Rum into one of Georgia's most celebrated craft distilleries. They faced numerous challenges, describing years of trial and error before mastering their craft. The aging process of their rum is crucial to its final quality, with spirits maturing in American white oak barrels for anywhere between six and ten years. Today, their distillery houses over 1,000 barrels, some containing rum aged for more than a decade. This meticulous process contributes to their reputation for producing some of the finest spirits available. At the heart of their production process, Erik and Karin emphasize the importance of using fresh sugar cane rather than molasses, which is a byproduct of sugar production. This choice reflects their commitment to quality and authenticity. The distillation process itself is overseen by distiller TJ Harris, who carefully combines syrup, water, and yeast, allowing the mixture to ferment for seven to ten days before distilling and aging. While the couple enjoys their shared venture, they acknowledge the difficulties inherent in managing both a marriage and a business. Despite these challenges, they have successfully navigated this journey together, celebrating their harmony and passion for their craft. Their story exemplifies the broader trend of growth in Georgia's craft spirits movement, signifying a new era for local distilleries and a burgeoning appreciation for quality rum in the state.