Muddy River Distillery sits on Main Street in Mt. Holly, a small North Carolina town that’s seen its share of reinvention. Founded by husband-and-wife team Tony and Glenda Sachs, the distillery opened its doors in 2014 after Tony left his corporate job to chase a long-held dream of making whiskey. The couple converted a former automotive shop into their production facility and tasting room, creating a space that feels more like a neighborhood hangout than a slick tourist destination. They focus on small-batch bourbon, moonshine, and flavored spirits, with Tony handling production while Glenda manages the business side and hospitality.
The Sachs didn’t stumble into distilling by accident. Tony spent years perfecting recipes as a hobbyist, testing different grain bills and aging techniques in his garage before taking the leap into commercial production. Getting the distillery off the ground meant navigating North Carolina’s complex liquor laws and convincing local officials that a distillery could be a positive addition to Mt. Holly’s downtown revitalization efforts. They started with a 250-gallon copper still and have gradually expanded their operation while keeping the intimate, family-run feel that draws regulars back week after week.
When you visit, you’re likely to meet Tony or Glenda personally, and they’re genuinely interested in talking about their process and the challenges of running a small distillery. The tasting room has a relaxed vibe with exposed brick walls and industrial touches that nod to the building’s automotive past. You can sample their current lineup, watch production through large windows, and get honest answers about what works and what they’re still tweaking. It’s the kind of place where conversations happen easily and you leave feeling like you’ve made friends, not just tried some spirits.
