Reverend Spirits

Reverend Spirits, based in the Chelsea neighborhood of Norfolk, Virginia, is a craft distillery founded by Karl Dornemann and Eric Stevens with a passion for exceptional whiskey. The distillery’s name and logo pay homage to Karl’s father, Rev. Dr. William Dornemann, with the clerical collar cleverly forming the emblem—a subtle nod to family heritage and craftsmanship. Karl, a veteran restaurateur with over 25 years of experience curating and serving fine whiskey, studied distilling extensively, earning craft distilling certificates from the American Craft Distilling Institute and the Siebel Institute.

Founded in 2011 and officially operational in 2020, Reverend Spirits spent years perfecting their craft, touring distilleries worldwide and refining mash bills and techniques. Their first bourbon, aged four years, reflects this dedication to quality, patience, and precision. Located near Smartmouth Brewing and Bench Top Brewing, Reverend Spirits is committed to producing small-batch, high-quality spirits that honor tradition while celebrating innovation and community.