North Carolina craft distillery Oaklore Distilling Co. announced a new strategic partnership with Johnson Brothers of North Carolina, a wine, spirits and beer distributor. 

Aimed at broadening the availability of Oaklore’s premium spirits in bars, restaurants and retailers throughout the state, this collaboration marks Oaklore’s steady ascent in the craft whiskey space as consumers more consistently seek out high-quality, locally produced spirits.

With Johnson Brothers at the helm of the brand’s regional distribution strategy, North Carolina whiskey fans will be able to taste a spirit that represents the Tar Heel state’s unique Piedmont Region. 

Relative to other American Whiskey producing regions, North Carolina’s Piedmont is an ideal climate, particularly when it comes to barrel aging. The humid subtropical environment experiences broad temperature swings more frequently than in Kentucky and other regions, resulting in a more consistent, year-by-year aging process – one that naturally allows for a more uniform whiskey profile, with truly developed character and a richer taste.

A multi-generational, family-owned distributor founded in 1953, Johnson Brothers has a longstanding reputation for excellence in the beverage industry. With operations in 17 states and a team of over 4,000, Johnson Brothers is committed to its founding values of work ethic, passion, innovation, teamwork, excellence and integrity. The company’s extensive network and dedication to quality service make it an ideal partner for Oaklore’s expansion plans.

“We have seen a real trend of consumers actively seeking out local spirits as their go-to everyday selections, particularly in the whiskey category,” Thomas Bogan, co-founder of Oaklore Distilling Co., said in a news release “From our hometown of Charlotte to Raleigh-Durham, Asheville, the Outer Banks and beyond, we’re excited to see our core range of whiskeys and specialty releases available on back bars and liquor store shelves across the state through this new partnership with Johnson Brothers. This also will serve as the foundation of our sales strategy as we expand across the U.S.”

“We are thrilled to partner with Oaklore Distilling Co. and bring their exceptional spirits to more consumers throughout North Carolina,” Will Clements, NC Spirits Director at Johnson Brothers, said. “Their commitment to craftsmanship and community aligns perfectly with our values, and we look forward to a very successful collaboration.”

In June of this year, Oaklore launched a charitable initiative to support Hurricane Helene recovery efforts. For every Oaklore cocktail sold at select participating bars and restaurants in the Charlotte area, the company donated $5 to the Community Foundation of Henderson County up to $10,000.

Oaklore’s whiskeys are available for national shipping via www.oakloredistilling.com. In addition, the full portfolio of products can be found at the company’s distillery in Matthews, NC.

Read more: Five Questions with Tom and Matt from Oaklore Distillery

ABOUT OAKLORE DISTILLING CO.

Built on the idea of community, Oaklore Distilling Co. in Charlotte, N.C., celebrates great spirits and the stories that come along with them. Born of friendship and passion in 2017 Matt Simpkins, Thomas Bogan, and Travis Masters have spent years learning the art of distilling and crafting Oaklore’s signature line of spirits. Oaklore spirits are created with dedication to the process, ingredients, quality and presentation. Oaklore Distilling Co. was named No.1 distillery by the Charlotte Observer’s Best in 2023 and 2024. For more information, visit www.oakloredistilling.com.