Sugarlands Distilling Company just rolled out something fresh in the world of spirits, and it's got folks talking. On a crisp Friday back on October 24, they unveiled the Broken Antler flavored whiskey line right at their downtown Gatlinburg distillery. What started as a local launch is now heading across the country, giving whiskey fans everywhere a chance to try these new twists on an old favorite.
The lineup kicks off with three standout flavors: Blackberry, Cold Brew Coffee, and Hot Honey. Each one is designed to mix things up without overwhelming the core whiskey taste. They're made for those moments when you're kicking back with buddies—maybe at a tailgate before the big game, stirring up a simple cocktail on a lazy weekend, or just taking a straight shot to cap off the day. The Cold Brew Coffee and Hot Honey versions come in at 70 proof, which means 35% alcohol by volume, while the Blackberry edges up to 80 proof, or 40% alcohol by volume. And the price tag? A straightforward $19.99 suggested retail, making it easy to grab a bottle without breaking the bank.
Ned Vickers, the president and founder of Sugarlands, put it plainly in the announcement: “Broken Antler represents the next chapter for Sugarlands as we enter the flavored whiskey market in a way that’s authentic to who we are. We’ve spent the past decade-plus building a reputation for crafting award-winning spirits across multiple categories, and Broken Antler allows us to bring that same spirit and innovation to an entirely new offering.”
This isn't some fly-by-night experiment for Sugarlands. They've been at it since 2014, starting out in the heart of Gatlinburg, Tennessee, as a family-owned operation. Over the years, they've built a solid name with their signature moonshines and those creamy Sippin’ Cream liqueurs that have won over plenty of palates. Then in 2022, they teamed up with Dale Earnhardt Jr. and his wife Amy to launch High Rock Vodka, proving they could handle clear spirits just as well as the brown ones. But whiskey? That's where their Roaming Man line shines brightest—a small-batch straight rye that's picked up some of the biggest awards in the industry for its limited releases.
Greg Eidam, the master distiller behind it all, explained the thinking: “With Broken Antler, we wanted to build something completely new that reflects the same dedication to quality and craftsmanship that Roaming Man and all our spirits are known for. This line is not about recreating Roaming Man in a flavored format but about expanding our whiskey tradition in a way that is accessible, distinctive, and built for drinkers who appreciate both flavor and quality.”
Take a closer look at those flavors, and you see how they're tailored for real-life enjoyment. The Blackberry brings a burst of ripe, tart fruit that cuts through the whiskey's warmth, perfect for sipping neat or splashing into a highball with some soda. It's got that higher proof, so it holds its own in a mix without getting lost. Then there's Cold Brew Coffee, which blends the bold kick of freshly brewed java with smooth whiskey notes—think of it as your morning pick-me-up turned evening wind-down, ideal for pouring over ice after a long day in the garage or on the job site. And Hot Honey? That's the wildcard, delivering a sweet heat that starts smooth and finishes with a gentle spice, great for shooters around a backyard fire pit or spiking a hot toddy when the weather turns cool.
What ties it all together is Sugarlands' hands-on approach. Everything happens in their Gatlinburg setup, where visitors have been flocking for years to one of the country's best craft distillery tasting rooms. You can swing by, sample the Broken Antler lineup straight from the source, and walk out with a bottle or two. It's that kind of place where the distillers are right there, happy to chat about the process and what makes each batch special.
Sugarlands isn't just about making drinks; they've got a giving side too. Through their MoonShare program, they've handed over nearly $1 million to nonprofits around the country. It's a reminder that behind the bottles, there's a commitment to the communities that support them—from the Smoky Mountains hometurf to fans nationwide.
As Broken Antler hits shelves beyond Tennessee, it's clear this is more than a trendy add-on. It's Sugarlands stepping into flavored whiskey with the same grit and precision they've shown in moonshine, cream liqueurs, vodka, and those prized rye releases. For anyone who's ever cracked open a whiskey after a hard week's work, hunted in the hills, or shared stories over a campfire, these bottles offer a fresh way to enjoy the ritual. Whether you're stocking the home bar for holiday gatherings, prepping for hunting season toasts, or just exploring something new on a quiet evening, Broken Antler fits right in.
The nationwide rollout means more stores will carry it soon, but if you're near Gatlinburg, the distillery is the spot to get the full experience. Taste them side by side, hear the stories from the team, and see why Sugarlands has grown from a local gem to a go-to name in craft spirits. This launch feels like the start of something bigger—a bridge between classic whiskey craftsmanship and the kinds of bold, everyday flavors that keep things interesting.
In a market flooded with options, Broken Antler stands out by staying true to roots while pushing forward. It's whiskey for the guy who values quality but doesn't need the fuss—smooth enough for casual nights, flavorful enough to spark conversation. As the bottles make their way to liquor aisles and bar backs across America, they're bound to become a staple for those who know a good pour when they taste one.
