Highlands Distilling Company sits in Marion, Virginia, in the heart of Smyth County where the Blue Ridge Mountains meet Appalachian tradition. Founded in 2018 by husband-and-wife team Jason and Amy Souza, this operation grew from Jason’s background in brewing and a shared passion for creating spirits that reflect their mountain surroundings. The distillery occupies a 3,000-square-foot facility on Virginia Route 16, where they’ve installed custom copper stills and created a tasting room that feels more like a neighbor’s living room than a corporate experience. The Souzas didn’t stumble into distilling by accident. Jason spent years perfecting his craft in brewing before transitioning to spirits, while Amy brings business acumen that keeps everything running smoothly. They’re hands-on owners who you’ll likely meet during your visit, and they’ve built their operation around small-batch production that prioritizes quality over volume. The team sources local ingredients when possible and focuses on creating spirits that tell the story of southwestern Virginia. Visitors find themselves in an intimate setting where you can watch the production process, smell the mash cooking, and taste spirits straight from the source. The atmosphere is unpretentious and educational—these folks genuinely want you to understand what goes into making their products. You’re not just sampling spirits; you’re getting a crash course in craft distilling from people who live and breathe it every day.