Muddy River Distillery: A great addition to a day trip in Mount Holly

Since making the move to the historic Mount Holly Cotton Mill last August, Muddy River Distillery has been thriving. We checked in to see how things have evolved, and there’s never been a better time to visit! With engaging distillery tours on Saturdays, live music on Saturday nights, and delicious bites to enjoy, it’s the perfect spot for a weekend outing.

Tours & Tastings

Every Saturday from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM, Muddy River Distillery offers engaging behind-the-scenes tours showcasing the craft behind their award-winning Carolina rum. Visitors can experience the full distillation process and learn about the artistry that goes into each bottle.

A highlight of the tour is the history and renovation of the Mount Holly Cotton Mill, a landmark dating back to 1875. Once a textile mill, the building has been carefully restored into a modern distillery while maintaining its historic charm. Guests will also have the opportunity to taste a selection of Muddy River’s finest rums, each crafted with natural ingredients and aged to perfection. Tours run every 45 minutes, and for just $10, visitors receive a shot glass and samples. No reservations are required—just stop by and enjoy the experience.

Crafting Quality Carolina Rum

Muddy River Distillery is committed to doing things the right way. They use only high-quality, natural ingredients in their products. Their Queen Charlotte’s Reserve barrel-aged rums are aged exclusively in virgin American white oak barrels, allowing the flavors to blend with the oak tannins for a smooth and elevated drinking experience. By using virgin white oak, they ensure a consistent product in every batch, making each sip of Queen Charlotte’s Reserve a signature experience.

"Queen Charlotte's Rum is the gateway rum for the bourbon drinker." – Owner, Robbie D.

Saturday Night Live Music & Bites

The experience doesn’t end with the tour. Saturday evenings bring live music from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM, Muddy River Distillery hosts live music, creating the perfect atmosphere for a relaxing evening. Guests can enjoy handcrafted cocktails alongside a menu of shareable bites, including pimento cheese, wings, Bavarian pretzels, charcuterie boards, and flatbreads.

Visit their website for the list of local artists.

Explore More in Mount Holly

Muddy River Distillery is the perfect addition to a day trip to Mount Holly. Before or after visiting the distillery, explore Tuckaseegee Park’s scenic trails, browse unique downtown shops, or stop by Traust Brewery—another highlight on the Ridgeline Craft Beverage Trail. Be sure to check out special events like the Mount Holly Concert Series for even more entertainment.

About Muddy River Distillery

Founded in 2011, Muddy River Distillery has been dedicated to crafting high-quality Carolina rum with all-natural ingredients. Their Queen Charlotte’s Reserve is barrel-aged in virgin American white oak, creating a smooth and refined flavor. With continued growth at their Mount Holly location, now is the perfect time to experience all that Muddy River has to offer.

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Ridgeline Craft Beverage Trail

Make plans to visit soon and see why Muddy River Distillery is a must-stop destination on the Ridgeline Craft Beverage Trail!