James May-June 2025 web - Flipbook - Page 21
Big Creek Distilling Co.
• dah lo n eg a •
Just north from NoFo at the end of Georgia 400, is
Big Creek Distilling Co. located outside Dahlonega. It
is family-owned by a long line of entrepreneurs in the
Ponder family. Founded in 2020, the goal was to create
a destination distillery with handcrafted cocktails and
a state-of-the-art production facility. They are producing Georgia-grown bourbon that reflects the heritage,
pride, and agricultural strength of the state. As one
of the few distilleries focused on sourcing ingredients
locally, Big Creek Distilling Co. is on a mission to craft
a bourbon that not only meets the highest standards of
quality but also embodies the taste of Georgia itself.
“At Big Creek, we believe great
bourbon starts with the land— and
there’s no better place than Georgia,”
said Lee Ponder, the company’s founder
and distiller. “Working alongside local
farmers and barrel makers, we’re really
trying to define what a Georgia style
bourbon means to us.”
As the bourbon industry continues
to expand beyond Kentucky, Big Creek
Distilling Co. sees an opportunity to
help define what the nation’s spirit means for Georgia— setting a standard that blends tradition with
innovation, while honoring the farmers and communities that make it possible.
The distillery is in the heart of Georgia’s wine plateau, set in the rolling hills of the Georgia mountains. “Dahlonega is a community filled with wonderful locals
and bustling tourism” said Emily Ponder, experience officer and operations
manager. “Being born and raised in
Georgia, Dahlonega’s
location was a perfect
spot to plant roots for
our distillery.”
Open Wednesday
through Sunday,
visitors can meet
the Ponder family,
and tours, tastings and seasonal
craft cocktails are offered daily.
“The light and airy yet rustic
vibe allows customers to feel cozy
no matter what time of year,”
said one James online voter. “The
signature hand crafted cocktails
are beautiful and tasty. Overall,
the perfect place to spend your
afternoon or evening.”
M AY/J UNE 2025
21
