Doc Porter's Distillery
History of Doc Porter’s Distillery
Doc Porter’s Distillery is a Charlotte, North Carolina, craft distillery built on passion and family legacy. The founder, Andrew Porter, named the distillery after his grandfather, Dr. Richard Porter, a radiologist with a zest for science, fast cars, and family. Andrew grew up around home brewing with his father, and eventually, his own passion for distilling took hold.
From Engineer to Distiller
By day, Andrew is a chemical engineer, but his true calling lies in crafting spirits. In 2014, he decided to turn his lifelong passion into a business, and Doc Porter’s Distillery was born. It’s a true family operation, with Andrew’s wife Liz, who works in sports marketing, co-owning the distillery. They manage to balance their careers and family life with running the distillery, all while contributing delicious craft spirits to the Charlotte community.
Handcrafted from Grain to Glass
Doc Porter’s Distillery prides itself on a meticulous, hands-on approach. Every product, from vodka and gin to whiskey, is produced entirely on-site, following the distilling process from grain milling and mashing all the way to fermentation and bottling. This dedication to quality control ensures a consistent and flavorful product in every bottle.
While specific information about the types of whiskey Doc Porter’s offers isn’t readily available online, their website emphasizes their commitment to a variety of craft spirits. You can likely find out more about their current offerings through their website or social media pages.
Looking Forward
Doc Porter’s Distillery continues to thrive under Andrew and Liz’s leadership. They offer tours and tastings, allowing visitors to experience the distilling process firsthand and savor the fruits of their labor. With a focus on family, community, and high-quality spirits, Doc Porter’s Distillery seems poised for continued success.
Awards Won by Doc Porter’s Distillery
- Doc Porter’s Bourbon Whiskey has received acclaim for its high wheat blend and complex flavor profile. It has been praised for its deep, dark amber color and notes of toasted marshmallows, vanilla, and fresh oak.
- The distillery has been highlighted in local publications like Cary Magazine for its quality products and innovative distilling methods, contributing to its reputation within the North Carolina spirits community.
- As a grain-to-glass distillery, Doc Porter’s commitment to using locally sourced grains and traditional distilling methods has earned it a respected place in the craft distilling industry.
Doc Porter’s Distillery Tour Information and Experience
Doc Porter’s Distillery in Charlotte, North Carolina, offers an engaging and informative tour experience for visitors interested in learning about the craft distilling process.
Tour Options:
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Mini Tour:
- Cost: $7
- Duration: Available on Friday evenings between 6 PM and 8 PM.
- Features: A brief overview of the distillery with a tasting session. Reservations are not required for this tour.
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Owner-Guided Tour:
- Cost: $15
- Duration: 45 minutes
- Availability: Most Saturdays
- Features: A comprehensive tour led by the owner, providing an in-depth look at the entire grain-to-glass distilling process. This tour includes a detailed walkthrough of the facility, an explanation of the distilling techniques, and a tasting session. Reservations are required for this tour.
What to Expect:
- Grain-to-Glass Process: Learn how Doc Porter’s spirits are crafted from locally sourced North Carolina grains. The tour covers milling, mashing, fermenting, distilling, and bottling processes.
- Interactive Experience: Guests can see the spirits in various stages of production, including the clear bourbon before it is aged in barrels.
- Tasting Session: Both tours include a tasting session where visitors can sample Doc Porter’s vodka, gin, bourbon, and rye whiskey.
Flask & Barrel Review of Doc Porter’s Distillery
As a whiskey collector who has toured countless distilleries, I can confidently say that Doc Porter’s Distillery in Charlotte, NC, stands out in the best way. From the moment I walked through the door, I felt welcomed by the warm, friendly staff. The tour was intimate and informative, making me appreciate the craft even more.
I opted for the fully-guided owner tour on a Saturday. For $15, it was worth every penny. Our guide, the owner himself, walked us through the entire grain-to-glass process. Seeing the machinery up close and understanding the steps from milling to bottling was fascinating.
What really struck me was the passion and dedication behind every step. The highlight for me was seeing the clear bourbon before it was aged – a unique insight into the distilling process.
The tasting session at the end was the perfect cherry on top. Doc Porter’s offers a variety of spirits, including vodka, gin, bourbon, and rye whiskey. Each had its own distinct character. The bourbon, with its high wheat blend, had a smooth, rich flavor with hints of caramel and vanilla. The rye whiskey was equally impressive, offering a spicy kick that lingered pleasantly.
The distillery itself has a charming, rustic vibe. It’s clear that a lot of thought went into the design, making it a cozy and inviting space. The staff’s enthusiasm was infectious, making the entire experience even more enjoyable. Plus, the small group size meant we could ask plenty of questions and get detailed answers.
Overall, Doc Porter’s Distillery is a must-visit for any whiskey enthusiast. The combination of expert craftsmanship, warm hospitality, and high-quality spirits makes it a standout in the world of craft distilleries. If you’re in Charlotte, make sure to stop by and take the tour – you won’t regret it.
Whether you’re a seasoned whiskey collector like myself or just starting your journey into the world of spirits, Doc Porter’s offers something for everyone. Cheers to a fantastic experience!
What To Do Nearby Doc Porter’s Distillery
Deepen your Distillery Experience (0.1 miles): Take a tour at Doc Porter’s itself! Learn about the distilling process from grain to glass and enjoy a tasting of their handcrafted spirits.
Embark on a Boozy Ghost Tour (1.2 miles): If you’re looking for a unique evening, join Charlotte’s Haunted Booze and Boos Ghost Walking Tour. Explore the city’s spooky side while indulging in crafted cocktails at haunted pubs along the way.
Explore Charlotte’s History (1.8 miles): Immerse yourself in Charlotte’s rich history with the Charlotte Ultimate Southern Charm Historical City Cart Tour. This narrated tour takes you past iconic landmarks and offers a glimpse into the city’s past.
Unwind in a Green Oasis (2.1 miles): Escape the urban buzz and find serenity at the beautiful Discovery Place Nature Explore. This interactive outdoor museum is perfect for families with children, offering nature-based exhibits and play areas.
Frequently Asked Questions
What restaurants are near Doc Porter’s Distillery?
El Rincon Catracho Restaurant: It has a rating of 4.5 stars on Google Maps. Their address is 4515 South Blvd, Charlotte, NC 28209. For reservations, you can reach out to them on their phone at +1 704-919-0037.
Yama Loso: It has a rating of 4.8 stars on Google Maps. Their address is 720 Governor Morrison St, Charlotte, NC 28211. For reservations, you can reach out to them on their phone at +1 704-364-9099.
Chubz Famous Chiliburgers: It has a rating of 4.6 stars on Google Maps. Their address is 3726 N Tryon St, Charlotte, NC 28206. For reservations, you can reach out to them on their phone at +1 704-376-9870.
What hotels are near Doc Porter’s Distillery?
Hampton Inn & Suites Charlotte Airport Lake Pointe: It has a rating of 4.6 stars on Google Maps. Their address is 2731 Little Rock Rd, Charlotte, NC 28214. For reservations, you can reach out to them at +1 704-394-6455.
The Duke Mansion: It has a rating of 4.7 stars on Google Maps. Their address is 400 Hermitage Rd, Charlotte, NC 28207. For reservations, you can reach out to them at +1 704-714-4400.
Hilton Garden Inn Charlotte/SouthPark: It has a rating of 4.5 stars on Google Maps. Their address is 4808 Sharon Rd, Charlotte, NC 28210. For reservations, you can reach out to them at +1 704-362-5080.