Mastering the Craft: How Distiller Bill Hockett Brought Traditional Roots to Dayton Barrel Works

Bill Hockett is an acclaimed craft distiller widely recognized for his tenure as the Head Distiller for Dayton Barrel Works Artisan Distillery in downtown Dayton, Ohio. Combining old-school craftsmanship with a deep, hands-on understanding of fermentation and mashing—honed in part through years of early mentorship from legendary figures like Popcorn Sutton—Hockett helped put Dayton's craft spirits scene on the map. Under his leadership, Dayton Barrel Works earned prestigious gold medals at the U.S. Open Whiskey and Spirits Competition for signature creations including Altschul's Corn Whiskey, Miami Valley Rye, and Gypsy Queen Absinthe Blanche.