KO Distilling is the result of an ongoing friendship that started decades ago when Bill Karlson (the "K") and John O'Mara (the "O") met at the United States Merchant Marine Academy. In 2013, after retiring, Bill and John decided to start a distillery together, a place where they could share their passion with the community. Helping them spread their wings in the business is Ryan Hendricks, an experienced distiller who holds degrees in Chemical Engineering and Chemical Physics. Now, as an established business with a number of awards and distinctions (Virginia Moonshine Distillery of the Year (2015), Certified Virginia's Finest to name a few), KO Distilling has a number of flagship spirits:

Bare Knuckle American Wheat Whiskey: Made from locally-sourced ingredients, this whiskey boasts caramel, vanilla, and butterscotch notes. Bare Knuckle American Wheat Whiskey won a Double Gold Medal in the 2017 New York World Wine & Spirits Competition.

Battle Standard 142 Gin Standard Strength: Described as "Exceptional" by Beverage Testing Institute in 2016, this gin features distinct botanical flavors, such as orange peel, cinnamon, cardamon, and coriander.

Virginia Moon White Whiskey: This double distilled whiskey has a refreshing sweet flavor profile with a peppery rye finish.