The Spirit of Autumn: Exploring SC Distilleries
As the all-too-familiar humidity of summer yields to the crisp, cool magic of fall, South Carolinians still find themselves in pursuit of something to warm their bones. Whether it’s gathered around a cozy campfire or crowded amongst loved ones during a beloved holiday celebration, the spirit of fall often takes shape in the form of a cocktail glass and an old friend to share it with.
Many distilleries call the Palmetto State home, and there’s no better time to raise a glass than during the comforts of the fall season. Here are just a couple that we’re pleased to offer at The Willcox:
Firefly Vodka
Made from locally-grown tea leaves less than five miles from the distillery in Charleston, Firefly Spirits is a versatile favorite used in many libations, but are most famous for their sweet tea vodka that captures the heart of any Southerner. Creating the world’s very first sweet tea vodka, Firefly’s sweet tea vodka trail-blazes both in flavor and originality.
Spiked Sweet Tea Cocktail
- 3oz Firefly sweet tea vodka
- 1/2 oz lemon juice
- 1/2 simple syrup
- Sugar rim – optional
Shake all ingredients in a cocktail shaker, strain into chilled martini glass, garnish with a lemon
Charleston Distilling Vesey’s Bourbon
Another Carolinian classic is Vesey’s Bourbon Whiskey, made by Charleston Distilling Co. in the majestic Lowcountry. Bourbon is well-known for its rich, smokey flavors that perfectly accompany the brisk fall air. With soothing flavor notes of maple, baking spices, and oak, Vesey’s Bourbon is an indulgent comfort that warms from the inside.
The Willcox’s Hot Toddy:
- 2oz Charleston Distilling
- Vesey’s Bourbon
- 1 cinnamon stick
- Splash of lemon
- 1 oz honey
- Top with hot water
