Ground breaking commences for Southern Pines whiskey distillery

Whiskey connoisseurs of Moore County gathered in Southern Pines on Wednesday, Nov. 3, to celebrate the official groundbreaking at the site of the future Brad Halling American Whisky Ko. distillery.

The distillery is owned by Brad and Jessica Halling.

The event featured complimentary samples of whiskey, live music, a speech from Southern Pines Mayor Carol Haney, and of course, a toast.

“There are good days in Southern Pines, and there are great days in Southern Pines, and this is a great day,” said Haney. “Thank you, Brad and Jessica, for your past, present, and future.”

Local equestrian and esteemed member of Moore County Hounds Cameron Sadler rode in with the American flag on her horse, Mikey, while acoustic act Whiskey Pines performed the national anthem.

Samples of assorted flavors of Brad Halling American Whisky Ko.—or BHAWK for short—whiskey were provided for a small taste of what’s to come the entire duration of the ceremony. Plans, concept art, and blueprints were put on display to show off the design of the distillery itself, which is set to open in early 2023.

Ground breaking commences for SP whiskey distillery

Rendering of American Whiskey Ko. provided by Architect Tag Galyean in 2021.

In addition to the expected distillery plant and bar, the venue will also host a restaurant and outdoor stage. Moving forward, the couple’s goal for the future is to provide not just Southern Pines but the entire Fort Bragg area with a comfortable, welcoming environment where they can enjoy a drink and feel at ease.

According to Brad, though he has been all around the world, he has been in and out of North Carolina since the 80s and has found himself coming back time and time again. He and Jessica made the decision to settle down in Southern Pines, which he truly considers to be “home.”

As it stands, Brad Halling American Whisky Ko. is currently 95% veteran and military family owned, with both Brad and Jessica being veterans themselves. The Hallings will be incorporating a fallen eagle feather into all product designs to represent the fallen who have served the country.

Brad and Jessica remain extremely grateful for the near constant outpour of community support they have received, specifically thanking the people of Moore County who have believed in them every step of the way even when others did not.

The distillery will be located at 175 Yadkin Road in Southern Pines. For more information and to keep up with Brad and Jessica’s journey, follow them on Instagram at @hallingwhiskey.

Feature photo: Owners Brad (left) and Jessica Halling with Southern Pines Mayor Carol Haney.

~Article and feature photo by Sandhills Sentinel Reporter Abegail Murphy.

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