Behind the Scenes with South Mountain Distilling Company's Distillers Mike & Brad

South Mountain Distilling Company has carved a unique niche in the world of craft spirits. Known for their dedication to quality and innovation, the distillery owes much of its success to the passion and expertise of its distillers, Mike and Brad. In this blog post, we take you behind the scenes to explore their craft, their philosophy, and the meticulous process that brings South Mountain’s spirits to life.

The Art and Science of Craft Distilling at South Mountain

Craft distilling is both an art and a science, and Mike and Brad embody this balance perfectly. Their approach combines traditional methods with modern techniques to create spirits that are rich in flavor and character.

Mike, with his background in chemistry, focuses on the technical aspects of distillation. He carefully monitors fermentation temperatures, distillation cuts, and aging conditions to ensure consistency and quality. Brad, on the other hand, brings a creative flair, experimenting with unique grain blends and barrel finishes to develop new expressions.

Together, they oversee every step of the process, from selecting raw ingredients to bottling the final product. Their collaboration ensures that each batch reflects the distinct personality of South Mountain Distilling Company.

Copper stills at South Mountain Distilling Company

Copper stills are essential for the distillation process at South Mountain.

Exploring the Unique Flavors of South Mountain Spirits

One of the standout features of South Mountain’s spirits is their complex flavor profiles. Mike and Brad achieve this by carefully selecting grains and employing innovative aging techniques.

For example, their flagship whiskey is made from a blend of locally sourced corn. The mash is fermented with a proprietary yeast strain that enhances fruity and spicy notes. After distillation, the spirit is aged in charred American oak barrels, which impart vanilla and caramel undertones.

Brad often experiments with finishing barrels adding layers of sweetness and depth. These small-batch experiments allow South Mountain to offer limited-edition releases that excite enthusiasts and collectors alike.

Oak barrels aging spirits at South Mountain Distilling Company

Oak barrels contribute to the rich flavor development of South Mountain’s spirits.

The Role of Sustainability in Their Craft

Sustainability is a core value at South Mountain Distilling Company. Mike and Brad are committed to minimizing waste and reducing their environmental footprint throughout the production process.

They recycle spent grains by partnering with local farmers who use them as livestock feed. Water used in cooling and cleaning is treated and reused whenever possible. Additionally, the distillery sources grains from nearby farms to support the local economy and reduce transportation emissions.

This commitment to sustainability not only benefits the environment but also enhances the quality of their spirits by ensuring fresh, high-quality ingredients.

How Mike and Brad Innovate While Honoring Tradition

Innovation is key to staying relevant in the competitive craft spirits market. Mike and Brad continuously push boundaries while respecting the time-honored traditions of distilling.

They have introduced new products such as a small-batch whiskey and flavored moonshines both of which have received critical acclaim. Their willingness to experiment with different grains, yeast strains, and barrel types keeps their portfolio fresh and exciting.

At the same time, they maintain rigorous quality control and adhere to traditional distillation principles. This balance of innovation and tradition is what sets South Mountain apart.

What’s Next for South Mountain Distilling Company?

Looking ahead, Mike and Brad are focused on expanding their reach and deepening their connection with the community. Plans include partnering with Appalachian State University's business, hospitality, and fermentation students to help come up with strategic plans for growth.

They also aim to increase production capacity while maintaining the artisanal quality that defines their brand. Collaborations with local chefs and mixologists are in the works to create unique cocktail experiences featuring South Mountain spirits.

For those interested in learning more or visiting, you can find additional information on the South Mountain Distilling Company website.

Exploring the craft behind South Mountain Distilling Company reveals the dedication and passion that Mike and Brad pour into every bottle. Their story is a testament to the power of combining expertise, creativity, and sustainability to produce exceptional spirits.

Whether you are a seasoned spirit enthusiast or new to craft distilling, South Mountain’s journey offers valuable insights into the art of making fine whiskey and more. Keep an eye on their upcoming releases and events to experience the best of what this innovative distillery has to offer.