In the bustling heart of Zebulon, NC, Olde Raleigh Distillery has emerged as more than a simple small-batch distillery; it stands as a beacon of community renewal and artisanal excellence. Established by Brandon McCraney, the facility welcomed patrons in January 2021 after four years of meticulous planning, quickly gaining a reputation as a cherished local treasure.
“This venture is born out of passion,” McCraney expressed. “Beyond being a father and husband, crafting bourbon is what I love the most. We take pride in our blends, and whether you’re a bourbon aficionado or just curious, we’ve got some remarkable cocktails for you to try.”
Olde Raleigh Distillery distinguishes itself through a unique approach to blending, drawing inspiration from methods typically associated with Scottish traditions. McCraney curates bourbon barrels from across the United States, crafting blends from diverse mash bills—some with corn, malted barley, and rye, others featuring wheat. The outcome is a rich tapestry of flavors from bourbons aged between 3 to 17 years, sourced from five distinct states.
“Our blending philosophy emphasizes variety,” McCraney noted. “By integrating different recipes and grains, we create a complex flavor profile that’s as nuanced and unique as a blend like Johnnie Walker Black Label.”
A defining feature of Olde Raleigh is its eye-catching bottles, designed by McCraney with an emphasis on sustainability and artistry. “I envisioned a bottle you’d want to keep around, like a decanter,” he explained. “It mirrors our brand’s dedication to detail and our commitment to excellence.”
Within the distillery, the ambiance echoes the artistry of its products. The centerpiece bars, crafted from reclaimed beams and rafters, span 30 and 60 feet, respectively, while the aroma of aging bourbon permeates the air, enhancing the sensory experience.
Olde Raleigh Distillery operates as a true small business, with every bottle labeled and packaged by hand. McCraneys wife, an integral part of the operation, ensures that each label is placed with care. “Our employees do it allthey bottle, label, and experiment in different areas of the business,” McCraney said. “Its the essence of small business. Everyone here has a stake in what were building.”
For McCraney, Olde Raleigh Distillery is about more than bourbon. Its about creating a space for the community to gather and supporting Zebulons growth. The distillery includes an event space and regularly welcomes patrons who, as McCraney notes, are invested in its success.
“Our customers care about what were doing here,” he said. “They see the greater good in revitalizing this area. That support means everything to us.”
With its dedication to quality, sustainability, and community, Olde Raleigh Distillery is raising the bar for small businesses in downtown Zebulonone handcrafted bottle at a time.
