Discover Old Glory Distilling Co.
Tucked away at 451 Alfred Thun Rd in Clarksville, TN, Old Glory Distilling Co. is one of those rare places where craft, flavor, and Southern hospitality come together so effortlessly that you almost forget you’re in a distillery. The moment you walk in, the aroma of oak barrels mingles with the faint sweetness of mash, and there’s an instant sense that this place was built on pride and passion rather than pretense. Whether it’s your first time visiting or your tenth, the experience is never quite the same-because everything here, from the small-batch spirits to the seasonal menu at the adjoining diner, feels personal.
Having visited more than a handful of craft distilleries across Tennessee, I can confidently say Old Glory stands apart for its authenticity. During my first tasting, one of the guides explained how each spirit is made from locally sourced grains-mostly corn, rye, and malted barley grown by nearby farmers. According to the American Distilling Institute, locally sourced ingredients not only improve flavor consistency but also reduce environmental impact, something this establishment clearly takes seriously. The bourbon, aged patiently in charred oak barrels, delivers a smooth yet complex profile with notes of caramel and spice. The Tennessee whiskey, meanwhile, goes through the Lincoln County Process, a charcoal mellowing technique that gives it its signature smoothness.
But what surprised me most was the food. The diner connected to the distillery has turned into a local favorite, and for good reason. The menu balances Southern classics with creative twists-think bourbon-glazed ribs, stone-ground grits topped with smoked shrimp, and house-made pies that taste like they came straight out of Grandma’s kitchen. On my last visit, the fried chicken sandwich-crispy on the outside, tender inside-was paired perfectly with a small pour of their Red Eye Rye. It’s the kind of pairing that tells you the team here understands not just spirits but the art of comfort food.
If you ask locals about where to spend an afternoon in Clarksville, you’ll hear this name again and again. The on-site tours give guests a behind-the-scenes look at the distillation process, from milling to fermentation to aging. Visitors often comment in their reviews about how knowledgeable and friendly the staff are-many of whom grew up right in the area. There’s a sense of pride that runs deep here, and it shows in the way they talk about their work. One of the distillers even shared that they collaborate with other Tennessee distilleries to promote sustainable practices, which is rare in an industry often built on competition.
What also makes this spot remarkable is its ability to blend tradition with innovation. While the building itself gives off a rustic, old-world charm with wooden beams and copper stills gleaming under soft lighting, the tasting room feels modern and welcoming. The company regularly hosts live music nights, charity events, and cocktail classes that draw both locals and tourists. A recent report from the Tennessee Whiskey Trail organization highlighted how such community events not only support tourism but also strengthen local culture-a fact clearly visible here.
Beyond the drinks and food, what really defines Old Glory is the story behind it. The founders started small, driven by a desire to create something truly representative of Tennessee craftsmanship. Over the years, they’ve earned recognition from whiskey experts and travel publications alike, including mentions in Whiskey Advocate and Southern Living. Still, they’ve managed to maintain that homegrown warmth that makes guests feel like family rather than customers.
It’s not hard to see why people keep coming back. Every detail-from the handwritten cocktail boards to the cozy outdoor seating that overlooks Clarksville’s quiet hills-adds to the experience. If you ever find yourself in Middle Tennessee and want a taste of true Southern character, this is the place to be. Whether you’re here for a tasting flight, a full meal, or just a relaxing evening with friends, the balance of craftsmanship, hospitality, and flavor makes this spot more than worth the stop.
