With Brandon McCraney: 

Brandon McCraney has spent years immersing himself in the spirits industry to dissect the world of whiskey. As Blender, he hand-selects and harvests each barrel to create distinct and flavorful small-batch spirits. As Distiller, he oversees the creation of house-made heirloom bourbon using a process known as élevage to age and infuse a depth of flavors. When not working on the stills or sampling barrels, he leads Olde Raleigh’s workshops and Whiskey Master Classes.

Brandon’s role extends beyond the walls of the distillery, to foster partnerships with local farmers and introduce heirloom grains in the heart of Old Tobacco country. As a Raleigh resident, he aims to build a meaningful brand that gives back to the community he loves. The goal is to showcase the positive environmental and economic impacts distilleries contribute from farm to glass.

This desire to have a broad impact stems from his experience as a Captain in the U.S. Air Force, where he proudly served for four years. Brandon’s education includes a Bachelor’s degree from North Carolina State University and Master’s Degrees from the University of Cincinnati and Harvard University. He is a certified Executive Bourbon Steward, Whiskey Sommelier, and has industry affiliations with Moonshine University, the American Distilling Institute and the U.K.’s Institute of Brewing and Distilling.

Description

Olde Raleigh Distillery is a blend of old and new, just like its signature blended whiskey! Come take a behind-the-scenes tour with Brandon…

Admire the beautiful and sustainable repurposed design of Olde Raleigh, from its handcrafted bar to its cocktail table whiskey barrels. Explore the barrel room and discover the way that everything from wood to weather can transform flavor. Enlighten your knowledge of spirits and learn not only the basics of distilling but the differences between distilling and the art of blending. And last but certainly not least, end your tour with a taste of Olde Raleigh’s newest, unique blended batch.

A special custom tour is also offered which includes a more in-depth and hands-on exploration of the blending process involving special barrel tastings and a full signature cocktail offered to each participant.