Thirteenth Colony Distilleries
History of Thirteenth Colony Distilleries
Thirteenth Colony Distilleries was established in 2009 in Americus, Georgia. It holds the distinction of being the oldest operating distillery in the state since Prohibition. The distillery’s origin can be traced back to a group of friends who initially started making liquor as holiday gifts for families and loved ones. This small endeavor quickly evolved into a full-blown passion for distilling.
The Distillery’s Philosophy and Mission
Central to Thirteenth Colony Distilleries’ philosophy is the idea of creating high-quality spirits at an affordable price. Rejecting costly marketing tactics and celebrity endorsements, the distillery focuses on the essence of its products. Their mission statement emphasizes treating customers like friends, thereby avoiding unnecessary costs and focusing on the quality of their spirits.
Unique Aspects and Production Techniques
Thirteenth Colony Distilleries benefits from the unique climatic conditions of South Georgia, ideal for aging spirits. The hot temperatures and significant temperature swings play a crucial role in enhancing the flavor of the spirits. This natural process allows for an organic extraction of intense flavors from the barrels, differentiating their products from others that use climatized aging processes.
Current Status and Product Range
The distillery continues to thrive, producing a variety of spirits, including bourbon, rye whiskey, and vodka. They pride themselves on using local and regional materials, such as corn from their private farm and water from the Southeast’s oldest aquifer. As of now, Thirteenth Colony Distilleries’ products are distributed in five states: Georgia, Tennessee, Texas, Arkansas, and West Virginia, and can be shipped to 38 states through their online partner.
Master Distiller and Aging Process
Graham Arthur, the Master Distiller, plays a pivotal role in the distillery. He oversees the distillation and aging process, ensuring each batch meets the distillery’s high standards. The aging process is meticulously monitored, with barrels aged between 4 to 6 years, depending on when they meet the distillery’s flavor profile standards.
Future and Community Engagement
Thirteenth Colony Distilleries is committed to growing its presence both locally and nationally. They encourage customers to request their products in local liquor stores to expand their distribution network. The distillery also offers tours and has a robust community engagement through events and newsletters.
Awards Won by Thirteenth Colony Distilleries
Best of Georgia Distillery Title: Awarded for three consecutive years by the Georgia Business Journal, recognizing the distillery’s commitment to excellence and quality in the Georgia distilling landscape.
Double Gold Medal at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition (SFWSC): For their Thirteenth Colony Southern Bourbon, a significant achievement given the SFWSC’s rigorous blind tasting process that focuses solely on the quality of the spirit.
Silver Medals at the Bartender Spirits Awards: Both their Southern Gin and Southern Vodka were awarded silver medals, highlighting their appeal in the bartending and spirits community.
Thirteenth Colony Distilleries Tour Information and Experience
Thirteenth Colony Distilleries, located in Americus, GA, offers a unique opportunity to experience the art of distilling in South Georgia. Unlike typical distilleries set on picturesque horse farms, Thirteenth Colony focuses on a no-frills, flavor-first approach. Visitors are invited to explore and understand the ‘secret sauce’ behind their production process.
Tour and Tasting Options
- Tour & Tasting: Priced at $15 per person, this approximately one-hour experience includes an interactive tour of the distillery. Guests get to taste Bourbon, Rye, Vodka, Gin, and other special spirits when available. It’s a comprehensive insight into both the process and the end product.
- Tasting Only: For $10 per person, visitors can enjoy a tasting experience without the tour. This includes the same range of spirits as the full tour.
It’s important to note that their Double Oaked Bourbon is not available for tasting or purchase at the distillery.
The Tasting Room Experience
The Tasting Room at Thirteenth Colony Distilleries offers a ‘try before you buy’ experience. Visitors can meet the team, taste various spirits, and learn what makes each product unique. Additionally, every bottle purchased in the tasting room is signed by the Master Distiller, adding a personal touch to the experience.
Schedule and Availability
- Tasting room is open without appointment:
- Tuesday – Friday: 12:00 PM to 5:00 PM
- First Saturday of the month: 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM
- Tour times:
- Tuesday – Friday: 12:30 PM, 2:00 PM, 3:30 PM
- First Saturday of the month: 10:30 AM, 12:00 PM, 1:30 PM, 3:00 PM
Visitors of any age can attend the tour, but tastings are exclusively for those over 21. The distillery also accommodates private tours for large groups.
Location and Contact
The tours take place at: 305 N Dudley Street, Americus, GA 31709 For scheduling, guests can contact the distillery at (229) 924-3310 or msherret@thirteenthcolony.com.
The Thirteenth Colony Distilleries tours offer an in-depth look into the world of spirit making, combined with a hands-on tasting experience. It’s an ideal activity for spirit enthusiasts or those looking to explore the unique flavors and processes of a South Georgian distillery.
Flask & Barrel Review of Thirteenth Colony Distilleries
I’d rate my experience a solid 4.7 out of 5. First off, the ambiance of the place strikes the perfect balance between modern flair and traditional Southern charm. It’s like stepping into a space where history meets the present in the most seamless way.
The staff there? Absolutely top-notch. Friendly, knowledgeable, and clearly passionate about what they do. They’re not just there to do a job; they live and breathe the craft of distilling.
Now, let’s talk about the main event: the spirits. As someone who’s tasted a wide variety of whiskies, I can confidently say Thirteenth Colony delivers on quality. Their Southern Bourbon? A delightful surprise. It has a complexity that appeals to both newcomers and seasoned palates. The notes of oak, vanilla, and that subtle hint of caramel? Simply exquisite. And the smooth finish? Just the cherry on top.
The distillery tour itself was an eye-opener. Unlike some other tours I’ve been on, this wasn’t just a walk-through with rehearsed spiels. It felt personal, almost like being invited into someone’s home. They shared insights into their distilling processes, their history, and even some fun anecdotes that you won’t find on a brochure.
If I had to nitpick, the only reason I’m not going all-in with a 5/5 is the location. It’s a bit off the beaten path, which adds to its charm, but also means a bit of a drive if you’re not local. That said, it’s a journey worth taking.
What To Do Nearby Thirteenth Colony Distilleries
Rylander Theatre (0.2 miles): This beautifully restored, old-fashioned theater offers a variety of performances and events, making it a delightful cultural stop in Americus.
Pig Problem Inc. (0.2 miles): For something quite unique, you might enjoy this place which offers a different kind of entertainment in Americus, close to the distillery.
Americus-Sumter Tourism Welcome Center (0.3 miles): A great starting point to get information about the area, along with some unique souvenirs.
Windsor Hotel Historic Haunted Tours (0.3 miles): If you’re interested in a bit of spine-tingling adventure, these tours provide a thrilling experience exploring the historic and possibly haunted Windsor Hotel.
Maranatha Baptist Church (9.2 miles): This church holds significant historical value and offers a peaceful and reflective experience.
Jimmy Carter National Historic Site (9.5 miles): A must-visit for history buffs, this site celebrates the life and achievements of former President Jimmy Carter.
Plains High School (9.5 miles): An important historic site in Plains, offering insights into the educational background of Jimmy Carter.
Plain Peanuts Store (9.5 miles): A quaint store in Plains where you can pick up some local peanut products and other souvenirs.
Wolf Creek Plantation Winery (3 miles): A lovely vineyard offering wine tastings and tours, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration.
Jimmy Carter Peanut of Plains Statue (9.3 miles): A quirky and iconic statue, great for a photo op and learning a bit more about the local area and its connection to Jimmy Carter.
Frequently Asked Questions
What restaurants are near Thirteenth Colony Distilleries?
Gladys Kitchen: It has a rating of 4.6 stars on Google Maps. For reservations, you can reach out to them on their phone at (229) 928-1975. Their address is Perlis Plaza Shopping Center, 1009 Martin Luther King Jr Blvd, Americus, GA 31719.
Fish House: This seafood restaurant has a rating of 4.2 stars. You can contact them at (229) 924-5177. They are located at 224 N Jackson St, Americus, GA 31709, in the Seafood Center.
Waffle House: With a 4.0-star rating, Waffle House is a popular breakfast restaurant. They can be reached at (229) 931-0300 and are located at 1207 S Martin Luther King Jr Blvd, Americus, GA 31719. This restaurant is open 24 hours.
What hotels are near Thirteenth Colony Distilleries?
Windsor Hotel, Ascend Hotel Collection: This hotel has a rating of 4.6 stars. For reservations, you can contact them at (229) 924-1555. Their address is 125 W Lamar St, Americus, GA 31709.
Comfort Inn & Suites: It has a rating of 4.1 stars. You can reach out to them for reservations at (229) 273-7117. The hotel is located at 2803 Frontage Rd, Cordele, GA 31015.
Hampton Inn & Suites Cordele: This hotel boasts a 4.4-star rating. For bookings, you can call them at (229) 273-7150. The address is 1709 16th Ave E, Cordele, GA 31015.