Southern Distilling Company is bringing bourbon back to Statesville! By producing award-winning small batch, aged in wood bourbon and rye whiskey—along with other products like brandy—this local distillery is reviving a long-lost legacy and art in its hometown.
Deep Rooted in the Spirits
Residents of Statesville may not know that before Prohibition in the 1880s, people referred to the city as the “liquor capital of the world.” Pete and Vienna Barger hadn’t forgotten the history and dreamed of making it a reality once again. That dream came true in 2013 with the founding of the Southern Distilling Company. They are the makers of Southern Star Bourbon Whiskeys.
One of the largest distilleries in the Southeast, it’s situated on a 20-acre farm and housed in a grand two-story glass-front building that is home to the tallest stainless steel and copper column still system in the state, according to the website. Located just off I-70 near the I-40 interchange, the exact address for the state-of-the-art distillery is 211 Jennings Road.
This is where the magic happens, and the end result is high-quality, smooth bourbon whiskies and fruit brandies. From products such as Standard High-Rye Straight Bourbon Whiskey to 10-year Reserve High-Rye Straight Bourbon Whiskey to the newest edition, Double Rye, attention to detail is a key ingredient.
From Grain to Glass
Guided tours are available Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., with the last tour starting at 5 p.m. Discover the details required to create the complexities that delight the palate. Advanced reservations are highly encouraged and can be booked online. For a more in-depth look at the process, book the Behind the Scenes Tour which takes about 45 minutes. Short on time? No problem. The Short & Sweet Tour only takes about 25 minutes.
One thing is certain, you do not want to skip out on the complimentary tasting at the end! Plan on pulling up a stool and relaxing as you sample a variety of award-winning products crafted with love and patience at the high-top flame oak bar. For the latest news and events, visit their Facebook page.
Sip and Savor
Bourbon and whiskey fans everywhere understand that it is best consumed slowly with appreciation of the fine art that is required to make the layered complex flavors of premium products. Descriptive language gives you a hint at what to expect. Words like spice, caramel, vanilla, hints of leather, smooth, long-lasting finish are all used to describe Southern Star Bourbon Whiskeys.
COVID Safety Reminders
The facility requires masks throughout the tours and advises social distancing among individual parties. Patrons should only remove masks at the bar during the tastings. For questions or more information, please call Southern Distilling Company at (704) 978-7175.
Summary
With two days to go until Christmas, there’s still time for you to make a last-minute purchase that is sure to lift spirits this holiday season! Show up to your friends’ place at Summer Pointe Apartment Homes with a select bottle of Southern Star Single Barrel! For more cool places to visit in Statesville, check out our other blogs sharing community news and events.