Americas South is renowned for its production of top drawer bourbon — here is where to find some of the best.
Whiskey's historical roots run deep in southern parts of the USA. From Tennessee and Kentucky to Virginia and South Carolina, there are time-honoured distilling traditions and legacies to be found in each.
For those visiting, be they whiskey aficionados or not, a distillery visit ranks high on the bucket list. From lowkey, local drinking holes to grander affairs, The Sybarite has curated a list of must-visit whiskey bars in the south.
Vault & Cellar, Middletown, Virginia
Found at the intersection of Route 66 and Interstate 81, this bar is in a breathtaking countryside location. Housed in a 19th-century bank building, this bar comes complete with an original 1134kg vault, hence the name. Offering over 300 whiskeys, this is the perfect place for trying new drams, or being certain that they'll stock your favourite. Opt for the tasting flight where you can choose your own, or try curated lineups from handpicked distilleries.
Address: 7843 Main St, Middletown, VA 22645, United States
With an incredibly scenic backdrop, this bar is located inside the Grand Bohemian Lodge Greenville, overlooking the iconic Falls Park on the Reedy and the Liberty Bridge. Much more than your average hotel bar, expect to find a coveted selection of whiskey and bourbons, presented in a range of innovative cocktails.
Address: 44 E Camperdown Way, Greenville, SC 29601, United States
As the first bar to introduce Vintage whiskey and spirits to Texas, Reserve 101 knows a thing or two about the spirit. Don't be fooled by its size, this outpost stocks over 1000 whiskeys from 14 different countries and has an incredibly rare library. Home to the famous Clarified New York Sour, the bar has been set high when it comes to mixology, so you're guaranteed to taste something unique when visiting.
Address: 1201 Caroline St STE 100, Houston, TX 77002, United States
As the largest American whiskey bar in the world, there's no doubt this is one of the top places to visit for whiskey lovers. Housed in the heart of bourbon country, this venue is rich on history and strikes the perfect balance between honouring tradition and looking toward the future. Boasting a world-class cocktail program made entirely with American whiskey, there is plenty of opportunity for patrons to get hands-on. And, for the true loyalists, there's a membership program which grants special perks.
Address: 11201 River Beauty Loop, Prospect, KY 40059, United States
With a series of 'best in class' awards, Gertie's has been frequented by tourists and locals alike. Celebrating the art and history of drinking, come for the neighbourhood vibe and stay for the impressive selection of bourbon.
Address: 507 12th Ave S Fl 1, Nashville, TN 37203, United States
Founded by renowned craft cocktail expert Gary Crunkleton, this bar was always destined for greatness. With a belief in the importance of highly-trained staff and a knack for hospitality, The Crunkleton has become a fast favourite for those seeking a bourbon-based experience. And, with some vintage spirits up to 100 years old, there's a unique chance to sample some rare labels.
Address: 1957 E 7th St, Charlotte, NC 28204, United States
Whisky and chocolate are a perfect pairing, and I love both, so I was delighted when House of Hazelwood invited me to try some of their rarest whiskies with some delicious mouthwatering chocolate.
