Split Rock Distilling sits on the rocky Maine coast in Newcastle, about 15 minutes from downtown Damariscotta. Founded in 2013 by Topher Mallory and Matt Page, two friends who left corporate careers to chase their passion for craft spirits, the distillery operates out of a converted barn that overlooks the Damariscotta River. They specialize in whiskey, gin, and vodka, using locally sourced grains and pristine Maine water. The operation started small with a 250-gallon copper pot still from Vendome Copper & Brass Works, the same company that builds stills for major Kentucky bourbon distilleries. What began as weekend experiments in Mallory’s garage has grown into one of Maine’s most respected craft distilleries, though they’ve kept their focus on quality over quantity. The founders’ backgrounds in business and engineering show in their methodical approach to distillation and their attention to detail in every step of the process. The distillery’s name comes from the rocky Maine coastline that surrounds their location, and you can see why when you visit. The tasting room feels more like a friend’s well-appointed barn than a commercial space, with exposed beams and views of the water that make you want to settle in for the afternoon.