Both of us are at Hilton Head Distillery on the island. Rum first, gin second, bourbon third — the order they make sense in for that climate. Hilton Head is the kind of regional craft distillery that earns its identity instead of imitating the Kentucky houses.

What is Hilton Head Distillery?

Hilton Head Distillery at 14 Cardinal Road on Hilton Head Island is the Lowcountry’s craft distillery — Hilton Head Island’s first and only working distillery. Opened September 2016. Founded by Joe Fenton (also founder of Dark Corner Distillery in Greenville, South Carolina); Whitney Meriwether is General Manager and Master Distiller. The lineup includes Aelder Elixir, Atlantic Bourbon, Reserve Single Malt Whiskey, and the Panela and Solera rums.

The visitor experience leans into the coastal Carolina identity rather than borrowing from the bourbon trail aesthetic — the production blends West Indies rum traditions with Carolina whiskey methods. Daily guided tours include tastings of six craft spirits served neat with a souvenir glass.