South Mountain Distilling Company: A Sip of True Blue Ridge Heritage

Nestled in the foothills of Western North Carolina, South Mountain Distilling Company isn’t just making spirits—they are keeping a centuries-old family legacy alive. If you are building the ultimate Western NC distillery tour itinerary, this Connelly Springs staple is an absolute must-visit for authentic mountain moonshine, bourbon, and fruit brandies.

The Story: From the 1828 Gold Rush to the Glass

The history of South Mountain Distilling Co. reads like a classic Carolina legend. When gold was discovered in the South Mountains in 1828, owner Don Smith’s ancestors realized there was an easier way to get a piece of that wealth: crafting exceptional whiskey and moonshine.

Passed down through generations of the Smith and Hudson families—surviving the era of running from the "revenuers"—these time-honored family recipes are still used today. Combined with the region's famously pure, mineral-rich Connelly Springs water, every bottle serves up a genuine taste of Appalachian history.

What to Expect on Your Visit

• Award-Winning Tastings: Sample from a decorated lineup of authentic moonshines, smooth bourbons, aged whiskeys, and traditional fruit brandies.

• The Distilling Experience: Looking for more than just a standard walkthrough? South Mountain offers a highly coveted, hands-on "Distilling Experience" where guests can get their hands dirty grinding grain, mashing, fermenting, distilling, and bottling. You even get to put your name on the bottles you helped create!

• Southern Hospitality: Relax in a welcoming, family-owned tasting room or host a private gathering in one of their dedicated event spaces.

Plan Your Tour Stop

Detail Information

Location1027 Malcolm Blvd, Connelly Springs, NC 28612 (Conveniently located right off I-40, Exit 113)

What They Craft Moonshine, Corn Whiskey, Bourbon, Rum, and Fruit Brandies

Hours

Mon–Thurs: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Fridays 10:00 AM - 9 PM

Sat: 1:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Sundays Closed)

Highlights Authentic family heritage, award-winning spirits, hands-on masterclasses, and private event spaces

Tour Tip: Because South Mountain Distilling Co. offers unique, immersive hands-on experiences alongside their standard tastings, we highly recommend booking your tour group in advance to secure a spot behind the still!

​