North Carolina’s Olde Raleigh Distillery Wants to Take Bourbon Title From Kentucky | Eater Carolinas

"Currently under construction in Zebulon, North Carolina and slated to open in late 2020, this family-owned craft-spirits distillery is led by proprietor, master blender and distiller Brandon McCraney and focuses on small-batch whiskey blends. The operation aims to put the Triangle region on the map as a bourbon destination rather than leaving the spotlight to Kentucky; plans at launch include a signature blended bourbon as the flagship, followed by cask-finished limited-release whiskeys, a house-made heirloom bourbon, and a line of vodka and gin called the Century Club. McCraney—who has traveled extensively to study distilleries, amassed a collection of hundreds of whiskeys, and taught master-series classes—frames the brand as community-minded, emphasizing farm-to-glass environmental and economic benefits. Located just seconds from neighboring restaurants and shops, the venue is intended as an inviting after-work or evening gathering spot that contributes to downtown revitalization and gives back to the local community." - Melissa Howsam