The Founding of Windows Distillery: A New Chapter in American Craft

In the heart of America’s evolving craft industry, one entrepreneur has taken the bold leap from cultivating the perfect grow environment to crafting the perfect pour. Windows Distillery, founded by Chris Mayer, is more than just a new name in American whiskey — it’s the next chapter in a story of passion, ingenuity, and homegrown grit.

Chris Mayer is no stranger to building something from the ground up. In 2016, he co-founded a commercial equipment supply company that quickly became a key player in the indoor growing industry. Over six years, that company transformed from a niche startup into a leading supplier for growers across North America, known for its high-quality grow racks, LED lighting systems, and cutting-edge solutions tailored to serious cultivators. What truly set the company apart, however, was its unwavering commitment to American manufacturing.

“The only thing you’ll ever hear me brag about,” Chris says, “is that we did it all right here in the USA. No imports. Just American workers and American ingenuity.”

When the pandemic hit and the world slowed down, Chris finally had time to reflect — and to dream. One idea kept resurfacing: building a craft distillery, with whiskey at the center. It wasn’t just a new business idea — it was a calling.

“There are a lot of similarities between growing and distilling,” Chris explains. “Both industries thrive on innovation, craftsmanship, and a real connection to the people you’re serving. What helped us succeed before — listening to our customers, solving real problems, and never compromising on quality — that’s exactly what we’re doing again with Windows Distillery.”

The name Windows Distillery itself suggests transparency, vision, and a clear view toward the future. It’s a space where the traditional craft of whiskey making meets the spirit of modern entrepreneurship. Though still in its early days, the distillery is already gaining attention for its meticulous approach to sourcing, production, and design — a reflection of Chris’s deep respect for the American craft movement.

Windows Distillery isn’t just about making good whiskey. It’s about doing things the right way. American-made. Thoughtfully crafted. Rooted in passion and purpose. For Chris Mayer, it’s more than a business — it’s the next evolution of a lifelong pursuit of excellence. And for whiskey lovers, it’s a name to watch.