In the picturesque landscape of Tennessee, where the Smoky Mountains meet the rolling plains, lies a gem of American spirits craftsmanship—Old Glory Distilling. This distillery embodies the rich heritage of American bourbon while offering a fresh, innovative approach to the art of distilling. As bourbon gains global recognition, Old Glory Distilling stands out not just for its exceptional products but also for its unique place in the distilling landscape of Tennessee. I wanted to do a review that delves into the history of bourbon, the distinctiveness of a Tennessee bourbon distillery, the history of Old Glory Distilling, their product lineup, and an overview of their restaurant.
Old Glory has an easy access location right off exit 4 on Interstate I-24 in Clarksville, TN. Just about a 45 min drive from Nashville
A History of Bourbon
Bourbon, an iconic American spirit, has a storied history deeply intertwined with the cultural fabric of the United States. Originating in the late 18th century, bourbon is a type of American whiskey primarily made from corn, with a legal requirement that it must be aged in new charred oak barrels. Its roots can be traced to the early settlers in Kentucky, a region whose fertile soil and favorable climate made it ideal for growing corn. The spirit was named after Bourbon County, Kentucky, where it was first produced and became popular.
The origins of bourbon are a blend of myth and fact. One story attributes the creation of bourbon to Elijah Craig, a Baptist preacher who is said to have aged his whiskey in charred oak barrels, imparting the distinctive flavors that characterize bourbon today. While the exact details are shrouded in legend, what is clear is that bourbon quickly became a symbol of American craftsmanship and ingenuity.
Bourbon’s legal definition was solidified with the Bottled-in-Bond Act of 1897, which set standards for bourbon production and helped to ensure quality and consistency. Over the years, bourbon has evolved from a regional specialty into a globally recognized and cherished spirit. The legacy of bourbon is a testament to American tradition, skill, and resilience.
Tennessee and Bourbon: An Unlikely Pairing
While bourbon is traditionally associated with Kentucky, Tennessee has its own rich history with whiskey production, primarily known for its Tennessee whiskey. The distinction between Tennessee whiskey and bourbon lies in the additional steps involved in the production of Tennessee whiskey, particularly the Lincoln County Process, which involves filtering the spirit through charcoal before aging.
It is relatively unusual for a distillery in Tennessee to produce bourbon, given the state’s longstanding association with Tennessee whiskey. However, this unique positioning offers a distinct advantage. Tennessee’s climate, with its hot summers and mild winters, creates an ideal environment for the aging process of bourbon, allowing the spirit to develop complex flavors over time. This juxtaposition of traditional bourbon production within the Tennessee whiskey landscape makes Old Glory Distilling an intriguing and innovative player in the world of American spirits.
Old Glory Distilling: A Brief History
Old Glory Distilling was founded in 2016 by a team of passionate individuals dedicated to preserving and advancing the craft of American spirits. Situated in the heart of Tennessee, the distillery aims to merge traditional bourbon-making techniques with modern innovation, creating a distinctive product that pays homage to both history and contemporary taste.
The vision behind Old Glory Distilling was to create a brand that celebrates American heritage while embracing new methods and ideas. The founders, driven by a commitment to quality and authenticity, set out to build a distillery that would not only produce exceptional bourbon but also become a cultural and social hub within the community.
Since its inception, Old Glory Distilling has been dedicated to maintaining a high standard of craftsmanship. The distillery’s team consists of experienced distillers who bring both traditional expertise and modern innovation to the production process. Their commitment to quality is reflected in every bottle of bourbon that bears the Old Glory name.
The Distilling Process and Product Lineup
Old Glory Distilling produces a range of bourbons that highlight the depth and complexity of the spirit. The distillery’s commitment to quality begins with carefully selected ingredients, including high-quality corn, rye, and malted barley. The grains are sourced from local farms, ensuring that the bourbon is imbued with a sense of place and authenticity.
One of the standout features of Old Glory Distilling’s bourbon is the use of a proprietary yeast strain that has been carefully cultivated to enhance the flavor profile of the spirit. The distillers employ time-honored techniques, such as copper pot stills and traditional aging methods, to create a bourbon that is both rich and nuanced.
Product Offerings
Although I didn’t try the Gin, or the Vodka, they do have those offerings as well.
The Distillery’s Restaurant
Complementing the distillery’s offerings is its restaurant, a beloved establishment that reflects the same commitment to quality and authenticity as the bourbon itself. The restaurant provides a warm and welcoming atmosphere, where guests can enjoy a range of culinary delights that pair perfectly with Old Glory’s spirits.
I enjoyed a very nice brunch at the restaurant, and I must admit, any place that give Crackle Barrel a run for its money on breakfast is a must go on my list! 
Sidebar: The Restaurant Experience
Old Glory Distilling’s restaurant is more than just a place to dine; it is a celebration of Southern hospitality and culinary excellence. The menu features a variety of dishes that highlight local ingredients and traditional Southern flavors, with options ranging from hearty barbecue to sophisticated farm-to-table fare.
One of the standout offerings is the bourbon-infused dishes, where Old Glory’s spirits are used to enhance the flavors of various dishes. For example, the Bourbon Glazed Ribs and Bourbon Pecan Pie showcase the versatility of Old Glory’s products and offer a unique dining experience that complements the distillery’s spirit offerings.
The restaurant also hosts special events and tastings, providing an opportunity for guests to explore the nuances of Old Glory’s bourbons while enjoying delicious food in a vibrant and convivial setting. The combination of exceptional food and fine spirits makes the restaurant a must-visit destination for both locals and visitors alike.
My final thoughts
Old Glory Distilling represents a harmonious blend of tradition and innovation within the American bourbon landscape. By operating in Tennessee—a state known for its Tennessee whiskey—Old Glory Distilling offers a refreshing and distinctive take on bourbon that honors both its historical roots and contemporary advancements. I can honestly say, it was refreshing to taste a solid small batch bourbon from a Tennessee distiller and not be all show. This is a true contender for a bourbon drinker and one that would go well in any cabinet.
The distillery’s dedication to quality, authenticity, and craftsmanship is evident in every bottle of bourbon they produce. From their flagship Old Glory Straight Bourbon to their limited-edition Single Barrel releases, each product embodies the spirit of American heritage and the commitment to excellence.
The addition of their restaurant further enriches the Old Glory experience, providing a culinary complement to their exceptional spirits and creating a vibrant space for community engagement.
In a world where the spirit industry is constantly evolving, Old Glory Distilling stands out as a beacon of tradition, innovation, and quality. Whether you are a seasoned bourbon enthusiast or a curious newcomer, a visit to Old Glory Distilling promises a memorable journey through the heart of American craftsmanship and Southern hospitality.