474. Grain-to-Glass in North Carolina: Southern Distilling’s Story

Jim and Todd welcome Pete Barger, co-founder of Southern Distilling Company, to the show for a deep dive into the history and revival of Statesville, North Carolina—once known as the "Liquor Capital of the World". As one of the nation's largest privately owned distilleries, Southern Distilling balances a massive contract distilling operation with their own award-winning Southern Star brand, all while championing a "grain-to-glass" philosophy that supports over 5,000 acres of local farmland.

The tasting kicks off with the Southern Star Bottled-in-Bond Straight Rye Whiskey. Crafted with a unique mash bill featuring 51% Abruzzi rye, this expression leans floral and approachable rather than aggressively spicy, offering notes of buttery rye muffin, honeyed tea, and a touch of ginger.

Next, the group samples the limited-edition Southern Star Bourbon Finished in Honey Barrels. Sourced from a single barrel exchange with a local apiary, this cask-strength bourbon delivers a rich, creamy profile packed with butterscotch and toasted Werther's Original notes, balancing the natural sweetness of wildflower honey with bold bourbon character.

Finally, Pete showcases their innovation with the Southern Star American Single Malt. Unlike many pot-still single malts, this 114.8-proof expression is produced on a continuous column still, resulting in a distinctively American profile bursting with "fruit cup" flavors—greenish banana, juicy fruit, and poached pear—layered over a robust grain-forward base.

Throughout the episode, Pete shares fascinating insights into the "science and geometry" of their palletized warehousing, the advantages of continuous distillation for malt, and the distillery's commitment to reviving heritage grains like Abruzzi rye.

Be sure to check out our private Facebook group, "The Bourbon Roadies" for a great group of bourbon loving people. You will be welcomed with open arms!