Raise a Glass to Hendersonville’s Craft Spirit Scene

Western North Carolina has long been known for its mountain views, lively music, and rich traditions—but did you know it’s also a rising hotspot for craft spirits? Whether you’re already living in Hendersonville or planning to relocate to Hendersonville, there’s a good chance you’ll soon be raising a glass to the region’s exceptional distilleries. From moonshine roots to cutting-edge whiskey innovations, Hendersonville and the surrounding areas are pouring heritage and heart into every bottle.

From Mountain Moonshine to Modern Distillers

If you’ve ever wondered what’s it like living in Hendersonville, you’ll find that the blend of history and progress is one of its strongest features. The region’s distilling scene has deep roots—moonshining was once a way of life for many Appalachian families. Fast forward to today, and that same ingenuity is being distilled into legal, high-quality spirits with uniquely local flavors.

One of the standout players in the area is M & T Distilling right here in Hendersonville. From their Apple Pie to Coffee and Peanut Butter moonshine flavors, M & T is keeping tradition alive with a modern twist. Their shop on Maple Street is a must-stop for locals and visitors alike looking for authentic, small-batch spirits that tell a story with every sip.

Innovation Meets Tradition at Two Trees

A short drive to nearby Fletcher lands you at Two Trees Distilling Co., where they’re aging whiskey the high-tech way—using energy waves instead of time. This environmentally friendly process doesn’t compromise on taste and has helped Two Trees scale their distribution to 38 states. Their Folklore collection pays homage to Appalachian myths with flavors like Carolina Peach and peppermint whiskey—perfect for home bartenders and collectors alike.

What makes Two Trees special is their connection to the land and people of WNC. The distillery’s roots go back to Black Mountain, and local legends like Chief Two Trees inspired the name. It’s this blend of folklore and forward-thinking that makes the spirit scene here so compelling.

Explore Beyond the Bottle

For anyone curious about things to do in Hendersonville, a distillery tour fits the bill—but it offers more than just tastings. Many of these sites tap into the community by offering events, classes, mixology experiences, and even wedding venues. Eda Rhyne Distilling in Asheville, for instance, crafts wild Appalachian Amari and herbal liqueurs that connect deeply to the region’s native plants and folklore.

Their tasting rooms double as learning centers, and their commitment to conservation and craft earned them a spot at the international Terra Madre food festival in Italy. That little sip from a tasting glass? It’s a toast to local farmers, foragers, and centuries-old traditions.

Savor the Flavors of WNC

Here’s a quick sample of Western North Carolina’s craft distillery landscape, all within a leisurely drive from Hendersonville:

• Cedar Mountain Moonshine – Just south of Brevard, offering infused moonshines like Sweet Tea Lemon.
• Chemist Spirits – Located in Asheville and known for sophisticated gins and aged vodkas.
• Call Family Distillers – In Wilkesboro, with deep moonshine lineage and award-winning recipes.
• Oak & Grist – Black Mountain’s gem producing Genever and single malt whiskeys.

Each place offers a unique spin on Southern Appalachian spirit-making while inviting you to be part of the experience. It’s not just about sipping—it’s about storytelling and savoring.

Recovery and Resilience After the Storm

Hurricane Helene’s arrival in 2024 brought flooding and hardship to the region, causing setbacks for several distillers. Despite the destruction, the industry demonstrated incredible resilience. Two Trees even released “Land of the Sky” whiskey using wood from storm-damaged trees, with a portion of proceeds going toward relief efforts. These kinds of community-forward initiatives highlight what makes living in Hendersonville—and the surrounding areas—so special: support, creativity, and grit.

Planning Your Visit or Your Move

If you’re planning to move to Hendersonville or simply visit, be sure to include some local tastings in your itinerary. Spirits tours pair perfectly with our farm-to-table restaurants, scenic drives, and cultural events. You can trace the legacy of Southern Appalachia in every bottle and meet the passionate individuals behind each distillery. They aren’t just making spirits—they’re shaping a thriving, creative future for Hendersonville and all of WNC.

So, whether you’re collecting craft whiskies, looking for your next date night spot, or searching for the perfect spot to relocate to Hendersonville, the region’s craft spirit experience adds flavor to every moment.