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Summer is almost here and it’s time to get out and explore what Appalachia has to offer. Western North Carolina has become a hot spot for micro-distilleries with one of the finest being located in Lenoir. If you appreciate a tasty glass of brandy and are looking for fun things to do in Lenoir NC, look no further than Carolina Distillery.

Carolina Distillery was founded in 2008 by Keith Nordan and Chris Hollifield. They currently make, own, and ship Carriage House Apple Brandy, Carriage House Strawberry Infusion Brandy, Carriage House White, and Carriage House Apple Pie Brandy. The distillery was originally located in an old carriage house in Downtown Lenoir, which gave Carriage House Apple Brandy its signature name. Their single-barrel brandy is handcrafted with the experience of three generations of North Carolina moonshiners.

Back in the day, moonshiners used whatever was on hand if corn wasn’t available. This included fruits such as peaches, strawberries, and apples. Using only fresh, locally grown ingredients, the brandy is distilled in a copper pot still and single-barrel proofed to give each batch its own unique flavor. Carolina Distillery’s goal is to become the leader in North Carolina spirits production, and are keen on developing a strong local, national, and eventually global customer base. Patrons can tour the distillery on Fridays and Saturdays between noon and 5 pm, or by appointment. The tours include a flight of samples and a commemorative shot glass to take home. The distillery can also be rented out for special events such as wedding receptions, birthday parties, high school problems, bachelor/bachelorette parties, etc., and include catering services.

Moonshine has been a part of North Carolina culture for centuries. Made from a combination of copper and corn, opportunities for bootleggers soared when North Carolina became the first Southern state to enact prohibition. While national prohibition ended 1933, North Carolina remained a dry state until 1935. In present-day North Carolina, micro-distilleries continue to multiply. Some of the best in the Western NC area include Broadslab, Howling Moon, Climax, and Carolina Distillery. We’re thrilled to have Carolina Distillery right here in Lenoir.

Tucked into the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Lenoir is by far the most charming when it comes to mountain towns in North Carolina. Our vibrant community is full of artists and nature lovers, and is perhaps best known as the birthplace of some of the most skilled and gifted craftsmen in the industry.

Lenoir is also home to one the finest mountain communities in the Carolinas, The Coves Mountain River Club. A quick glimpse into daily life includes savoring a sunset or sunrise at our mountaintop Pigsah Mountain Lodge, sipping wine or strolling through Evelyn’s vineyard, and even planting flowers and fruits in Isabel’s Garden set along the mountain fed Johns River. Residents have over 39 miles of hiking trails to explore before taking a dip in Coleton’s Swimming Hole during the summer months. It’s no wonder we were named 2017 Best Mountain Community of the Year by a respected online real estate review website.

If you’re looking to build or buy your dream home in Western North Carolina, didi you know we offer all types of homesite options, from a private cul-de-sac estate to a river frontage on the Johns River and several home sites with breathtaking long range mountain views. We can show you a variety of builder floor plans to maximize the scenic beauty and they include everything from master suites, generous guest bedrooms, detachable garages, vaulted rooms with exposed timbers, and screened outdoor living porches.            

Whether you’re a brand new resident or simply visiting, Lenoir remains a vibrant, charming town all year round. Our residents never run out of fun things to do in Lenoir NC while living in their North Carolina mountain homes.  Come take a peek for yourself. 

If you’re exploring the area for the first time, ask for our 84 page Complimentary Magazine