In the heart of North Carolina, where the air carries hints of aged oak and fresh grain, a distillery is bringing back the spirit of an old American tradition with a modern twist. Southern Distilling Company, tucked away in Statesville, has just unveiled its latest creation: Southern Star Bottled-In-Bond Straight Rye Whiskey. This isn't just another bottle on the shelf—it's a nod to the rugged determination that shaped whiskey-making over a century ago, crafted for those who appreciate a drink with real character.
Picture this: a whiskey that's distilled and bottled right there in the distillery, following rules set down way back in 1897 with the Bottled-in-Bond Act. That law was all about ensuring quality and honesty in a time when shady practices were common in the industry. Today, Southern Distilling honors that legacy by sticking to the strict standards—everything from the grain to the final pour happens under one roof, with no shortcuts. The result? A 100-proof rye that's got enough kick to wake up your senses but smooth enough to savor on a quiet evening.
What makes this rye stand out is its carefully chosen mash bill: 51% rye for that spicy bite, 39% corn to add a touch of sweetness, and 10% malted barley to round it all out. It's like building a classic muscle car—every part has a purpose, creating something powerful yet balanced. Pete Barger, the co-founder and CEO of Southern Distilling, puts it best: this whiskey was made with real intention, diving deep into the bold flavors of rye while keeping true to bottled-in-bond traditions. It's unapologetically strong, but it goes down easy, making it perfect for a neat pour after a long day or mixed into a sturdy Manhattan.
Southern Distilling didn't just stumble into this. Founded back in 2013, the company has grown into one of the biggest privately owned distilleries in the country, all while staying rooted in Statesville. They've expanded their reach, offering everything from new-fill barrels to aged ones, warehouse storage, and even co-packaging services for over 130 brands around the world. But at its core, it's about crafting spirits that tell a story. Their Southern Star lineup is now available in more than 18 markets across the U.S., with plans to keep growing. And for locals or anyone passing through North Carolina, the distillery itself is a destination worth the trip—open for tours where you can see the process up close, tastings to sample the goods, and craft cocktails that highlight their lineup. They even host events, public or private, turning the place into a spot for gatherings that feel like old-school get-togethers.
This new rye release fits right into that ethos. Priced at around $50, it's accessible without skimping on quality, making it a smart pick for guys building out their home bar or looking for something to share with buddies over stories of the good old days. Imagine cracking open a bottle on a crisp fall night, the aroma of spice and warmth filling the room—rye's complexity shines through, with notes that evolve from the first sip to the last. It's not flashy or over-the-top; it's straightforward, reliable, much like the men who built the traditions it's based on.
For those interested in exploring more, Southern Distilling also dabbles in other ventures, like offering bulk American single malt whiskey, showing their versatility in the spirits world. But this rye is the star right now, available at their tasting room on Jennings Road in Statesville or at ABC stores across North Carolina. It's a reminder that great whiskey doesn't need hype—it earns its place through craftsmanship and history.
As the whiskey landscape keeps evolving, distilleries like Southern Distilling are proving that sticking to roots can lead to exciting new paths. This bottled-in-bond rye isn't just a drink; it's a connection to the past, bottled for the present. Whether you're a longtime rye fan or just dipping your toe in, it's worth seeking out. After all, in a world full of fleeting trends, there's something satisfying about a whiskey that's built to last.
