Southern Star bourbon, a product of North Carolina's Southern Distilling, has introduced an exclusive limited release whiskey that pays tribute to the Carolina Panthers' historic 2003 NFC Championship season. This extraordinary offering, named the "Southern Star Paragon Single Barrel Carolina Panthers Edition," is a celebration of the team's remarkable achievements and holds a special place in the hearts of Panthers fans and whiskey enthusiasts alike.
Only a select few will have the opportunity to savor this unique spirit, as fewer than 1,000 bottles will be made available for purchase. The official launch of this distinctive whiskey is set for October 20th, with a grand event taking place at the Southern Distilling Company in North Carolina. The release date is symbolic, coinciding with the 20th anniversary of the Panthers' first NFC championship.
Pete Barger, the co-founder and CEO of Southern Distilling, is not only deeply passionate about his distillery's products but is also a devoted Panthers fan. He expressed his enthusiasm for commemorating the 2003 team, remarking, "As a longtime Panthers fan, I'm thrilled to celebrate the 20th anniversary of our team's first NFC championship." Barger's roots are firmly planted in the Carolinas, where he and his wife Vienna have raised their family and built their successful business. He acknowledges that the partnership with the Panthers is a source of pride, and he is eagerly anticipating sharing this release that honors the 2003 team's achievements.
The distinguishing feature of this limited release is its specially designed label, a nod to the Carolina Panthers and their legacy. This label is unlike any other seen in conjunction with the NFL, making each bottle a collector's item. To further emphasize the exclusivity of this release, each bottle is numbered by hand, adding a personal touch to the packaging. The first 150 bottles, available for purchase at the Southern Distilling Company in Statesville, will be graced by the presence of a Panthers Legend, offering the unique opportunity for fans to have their bottles autographed.
The creation of the Southern Star Paragon Single Barrel Carolina Panthers Edition was a meticulous process. Pete Barger played a pivotal role in selecting six exceptional barrels of Paragon bourbon, ensuring that each one represents the distillery's signature whiskey to perfection. While each barrel has unique characteristics thanks to the aging process, they all share a common thread of delightful flavors. The nose of the Paragon Single Barrels is characterized by sweet, fruity florals and ripe apple notes. On the palate, the whiskey bursts with flavors of vanilla, honey, subtle hints of walnuts, and a rich, luscious texture.
The composition of the Paragon Single Barrel is 70% corn, 16% wheat, and 14% malted barley. The Panthers Limited Edition whiskey will be offered at cask strength, with variations depending on the specific barrel. Priced at an MSRP of $99.95 for a 750mL bottle, this limited release is not only a tribute to the Panthers but also a high-quality bourbon worthy of any enthusiast's collection.
Southern Distilling's partnership with the Carolina Panthers extends beyond this unique limited release. Fans attending games at Bank of America Stadium can enjoy a variety of Southern Star products, enhancing their game-day experience. The partnership also encompasses the culinary world, with signature Panthers-themed cocktails being served at bars and restaurants across the Carolinas, adding an extra layer of excitement for fans. Moreover, Southern Distilling provides its own signature cocktails at their on-site cocktail bar, offering a unique opportunity for visitors to enjoy the full range of their exquisite creations.
About Southern Distilling
Southern Distilling Company, located in Statesville, North Carolina, is a noteworthy player in the American craft distillery scene. Established in 2014, it has quickly gained recognition for its commitment to producing high-quality spirits and its innovative approach to whiskey-making.
Southern Distilling Company boasts a state-of-the-art facility with a focus on sustainable and responsible production. The distillery places importance on using locally sourced grains, and they have developed strong relationships with local farmers to ensure the highest quality ingredients for their spirits. Their dedication to supporting the community and the agricultural industry is a significant part of their ethos.
One of the highlights of Southern Distilling is its production of American whiskey, including bourbon and rye. Their whiskey-making process adheres to traditional techniques and aging methods, often using a combination of new charred oak barrels to bring out unique flavors and complexity. The result is a range of spirits with distinct flavor profiles that have garnered attention and accolades from enthusiasts and connoisseurs.
The distillery is open to visitors and offers tours and tastings, allowing guests to explore the production process and appreciate the craft behind each spirit. Southern Distilling's commitment to quality, community engagement, and innovative practices positions it as a notable and promising figure in the world of American craft distilleries.
