North Carolina’s whiskey history is as long as the Catawba River, and Southern Distilling Company continues to reignite that rich tradition with the launch of Hunting Creek Straight Rye Whiskey. This bottled-in-bond release commemorates a celebrated rye whiskey sold at the turn of the century. Southern Distilling Company founders Pete and Vienna Barger hope to introduce more whiskey lovers to North Carolina’s storied distilling legacy with Hunting Creek Straight Rye Whiskey, as it debuts this month. For more information, visit southerndistillingcompany.com.
In the late 1800s, hundreds of federally licensed farm distilleries surrounded the Statesville region. They supported the major rectification companies shipping spirits out on the rail lines along the East Coast. Prohibition hit Statesville early in 1903, shutting down a robust industry — but the spirit lived on. Inspired by the heritage, tradition, and ingenuity of Statesville, Southern Distilling Company obtained the Hunting Creek trademark and set out to restore another piece of local heritage.
Bottled at 100 proof and aged for at least four years, the first Hunting Creek Straight Rye Whiskey bottled-in-bond release is distilled in Statesville with a mash bill of 51% rye, 39% corn, and 10% malted barley.
The deep amber whiskey carries notes of baking spice, cinnamon, nutmeg, and clove, with hints of dark fruit like black cherry and blackberry and subtle sweetness from caramel to vanilla and a spicy kick that lingers throughout.
Southern Distilling Company’s Hunting Creek Straight Rye Whiskey (100 proof/50% ABV/$49.95/750mL) became available to ABC stores across North Carolina in April, and bottles from this release can also be purchased at the distillery.
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