Wilmington’s distilleries are award-winning, unique, and churning out new collaborations on the regular. So, if you are looking for your next favorite single-barrel or want to make a silky-smooth martini from home, we have the guide for you. Browse this list to keep it local, and bring a stellar spirit to your next social gathering—that’s a win-win, if you ask us!
Here are a few ILM favorites that keep our hearts (and our glasses) full.
Blue Shark Vodka
Fun fact: Blue Shark Vodka was Wilmington’s first distillery, opening in the summer of 2019.
Using all North Carolina non-GMO heirloom corn, the vodka is distilled and triple filtered for a smooth taste, earning it the nickname, “the shark that doesn’t bite.” Fans can grab the handblown bottles with a glass shark figurine swimming inside at most ABC stores around the state. In addition to using all North Carolina ingredients, the company is family-owned and female-run, with some proceeds going to shark research.
They’re passionate about ocean conservation and really great Vodka—but hey, who isn’t?
End of Days Distillery
Sound ominous? End of Days opened its distillery in 2020, but the real story behind the moniker is more heartwarming.
Husband-wife team Shane and Beth Faulkner transformed a metal shell building into a trendy gathering and events space, complete with a dreamy copper still peaking in through the back room. One night, the family was sitting around a campfire and noticed they kept repeating the phrase, “at the end of the day.” The phrase seems to sum things up and point to what really matters in life.
End of Days opened in February 2020 with three spirits customers can try on-site: Port of Entry Gin, Port of Entry Vodka, and Port of Entry Rum. Today, their list is much longer—with several series and ready-to-drink cocktails on the menu. But there’s one recent release we are so excited about: Shelby Vodka, a high-octane collab with Shelby American. This is an ultra-premium and limited-edition vodka, distilled seven times. It’s crisp, clean, approachable, and built for the bold…or a dirty martini.
Momentum Distillery
Find NC vodka, single barrel bourbon, barrel-aged rum, gin, and more at Momentum on Front Street. Besides being a family business, they collaborate with other businesses to support our growing spirit culture! Their mission is simple: to create fun and unique spirits. Additionally, they now offer shipping to 45 states! Stay up-to-date by checking their site. Momentum stays active in the community and lists its upcoming events on the home page.
Wilmington Distillery
Part distillery, part bar. Visit Wilmington Distillery on Dock Street for something fun any day of the week, even Sunday! Plus, they host plenty of live music events, sip & shares, and other fun happenings. We love the beer and wine, but it’s those locally crafted spirits that shine: spiced rum, vodka, limoncello, whiskey, and more. Check out their exceptional selection, and stick around for the good vibes.
We all love a great cocktail, but what else do you love about ILM? For neighborhood guides, foodie lists, and local business hits, keep up with us here.
