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🌾 19 - Broadslab Distillery Revisited

Where Moonshine Meets Modern Craft


Location: Benson, NC - Website: broadslabdistillery.com


A Legacy Reborn


Broadslab is North Carolina’s first farm distillery since Prohibition, founded by Jeremy Norris—a fifth-generation moonshiner. Located just off I-95, it’s a true grain-to-glass operation rooted in Southern tradition and elevated by innovation.


What Sets It Apart


·       Tobacco Barn Aging: Whiskey barrels rest in curing barns, absorbing heat and tobacco essence—a patented process unique to Broadslab.

·       Farm-to-Bottle: All grains are grown and milled on-site, ensuring full control over quality and terroir.

·       Historic Roots: The distillery honors its moonshining past while embracing modern craft standards.


Signature Bottles


·       Flue-Cured Bourbon & Rye: Aged in tobacco barns for a one-of-a-kind flavor.

·       Legacy Moonshine: Based on Jeremy’s grandfather’s original recipe.

·       Single Barrel Releases: Non-GMO, small-batch spirits handcrafted on the farm.


Personal Connection


Broadslab reminds me of the grape farm I grew up on—a family-run operation where his father and grandfather made homemade Concord grape wine every fall. The scent of ripening grapes on the vine still evokes those memories, and Broadslab’s commitment to heritage and hands-on production strikes a similar chord.

The Flue-Cured Bourbon isn’t like a peaty or smoky Scotch—it’s gentler, more grounded. The tobacco barn aging adds a subtle depth and authenticity that makes it a unique sipper, especially for those who appreciate nuance over intensity.


Personal Opinion


My second trip to Broadslab Distillery confirmed my previous personal opinion: a lack of enjoyment of the products for two reasons. First, I am not a fan of Rye whiskey or high-Rye Bourbon. Second, the Flue-Cured process—while not as strong as peat—still added a smoky, medicinal note to the products, which I do not care for in any whiskey. This is not to say others wouldn’t enjoy their products; they’re just not my cup of tea.


Final Thoughts


Broadslab offers a rare glimpse into old-school moonshining elevated to modern craft. Guests can tour the farm, taste unique spirits, and even stay overnight in restored tobacco barns via Airbnb. It’s rustic, immersive, and unforgettable—especially for those who value family legacy, sensory storytelling, and the quiet power of place.

 

 
 
 

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