Muddy River Distillery
Muddy River Distillery, the oldest rum distillery in the Carolinas, is setting up shop in a historic cotton mill complex. Built in 1875, Mount Holly Cotton Mill is on the National Register of Historic Places and awaits the transformation into a welcoming space for friends, families, and pets to enjoy a beverage. Opening its doors in June 2024, Muddy River Distillery promises a unique experience steeped in history.
Author: Caroline Porsiel
Caroline Porsiel is a master distiller and liqueurist based in East Ellijay, Georgia. She founded House of Applejay, a fine spirits and liqueur distillery, in 2022 with her mother, Sabine, crafting award-winning products like Applejay from Ellijay, Mt. Frozen Knob Vodka, and Winter Cherry Mountain Liqueur. The distillery won a 2024 Best of Georgia Award and a 2025 Double Gold Medal at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition for its Winter Cherry Mountain Liqueur. As a founding member of the AMBRU Campaign, launched in 2020, Porsiel advocates for the global recognition of American Brandy and Rum. She continues to drive innovation in the craft spirits industry from her active distillery in the heart of Georgia’s apple country.
