Thanks to some new laws around the state, a wave of new local Wilmington distilleries are closely following the brewery boom from the last decade. The Wilmington area’s first distillery opened last year with another two opening their doors in 2020. Word has it more are on their way and we love a good cocktail!

And just because the local spirit scene is new — do not make the mistake of thinking these cocktails are secondary. These distillers are already nabbing awards for their craftsmanship.

Here are the local spirits you should try and one Wilmington distillery open to the public to go visit:

Blue Shark Vodka

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.” While the distillery is not open to the public, 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.

2. End of Days Distillery

Sound ominous? Yes, End of Days opened their distillery in 2020, but the real story behind the monicker is more heartwarming.
Husband-wife team Shane and Beth Faulkner opened up a distillery to the public at 1815 Castle Street. They 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 camp fire 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.

3. Mason Inlet Distillery

Mason Inlet Distillery is actually distilling something uncommon — something distiller and owner Tom Curran calls contemporary brandy. It’s clear, unlike most dark brown brandies and is infused with fresh fruits and juices to create a unique product. So far Mason Inlet has released a line of these brandies including cucumber, pineapple, banana, and a limited-edition lemon. The liquor is “double-double-distilled” according to their website, and bottles are sealed with a wax topper.