Southern Grace Distillery is a relatively new craft distillery that finds its home in a former North Carolina prison. This unique headquarters are something celebrated by the distillery and are used by the brand as a way to distinguish themselves in the crowded world of craft whiskey. The distillery currently only has one offering, known as Conviction -- a play on the prison theme of the brand. Conviction is touted by Southern Grace Distillery as the first bourbon to be aged behind bars and has been referred to as prison whiskey.
While the prison theme may not sound terribly appealing, the final product by Southern Grace Distillery is actually quite amazing. Notes of baked cereal and sweet corn are found on the palette, while aromas of apple and molasses round out the experience. The whiskey is produced to cask strength which provides it with a lower proof, but allows the whiskey to feature better flavor concentration and is incredibly approachable.
Prison-Aged Whiskies
Southern Grace Distillery Produces Its Quality Whiskey In an Old Prison
Trend Themes
1. Prison-inspired Spirits - There is an opportunity for craft distilleries to create unique, prison-inspired spirits that offer a distinct flavor and brand story.
2. Repurposed Industrial Spaces - Repurposing industrial spaces, such as former prisons, can offer a unique brand experience for craft distilleries and other companies in the food and beverage industry.
3. Cask Strength Whiskey - As consumers become increasingly interested in artisanal and craft spirits, there is an opportunity for distilleries to produce cask strength whiskey for its more concentrated flavor and unique selling proposition.
Industry Implications
1. Craft Distilling - Craft distilleries have the opportunity to create unique and memorable brand experiences by repurposing industrial spaces and offering prison-inspired spirits.
2. Food and Beverage - Other companies in the food and beverage industry can follow Southern Grace Distillery's example and repurpose industrial spaces for unique brand experiences.
3. Luxury Spirits - Cask strength whiskey offers an opportunity for luxury spirits brands to showcase the more concentrated and intense flavor profiles of their products.