FOUNDED IN THE SPIRIT OF ADVENTURE

Our Story

Dread River was founded in the spirit of adventure, on the notion that life is precious, not fragile. We distill spirits for those inspired by challenge, who value progress over comfort, who seek out boundaries and push beyond them. At Dread River, every bottle is a story, every glass is an opportunity; to listen, to confide, to connect.

Let the current of adventure carry you and when you toast to your accomplishments, reach for us.

Bold. elegant. ready for anything.

Straight Bourbon

Straight Bourbon distilled from 60% corn, 30% wheat, and 10% malted barley, Dread River's flagship bourbon is the first bourbon distilled in Birmingham in over 100 years.

Silver Medal Winner at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition.

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sherry finished rye

Made from 90% rye and 10% malted barley, this rye spends the last six months of its aging process in sherry barrels. With hints of tart cherry, the aroma is sweet and full. The spice of the rye is offset by toasted oak and sherry sweetness.

Gold Medal Winner at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition.

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Blended whiskey

This blended whiskey was the first aged Dread River product and offers vanilla, caramel flavors with a nice butterscotch and chocolate finish, and a sweet and smoky aroma.

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Vodka

Made from 100% Italian Wheat, Dread River's Vodka is sweet and floral and has a hint of citrus on the nose. This produces a crisp, clean finish with a lingering vanilla flavor on the pallet.

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Gin

Made with nine botanicals, herbs, and variations of citrus, Dread River's Gin has a refreshing and unconventional flavor, with hints of grapefruit, lemongrass, cucumber, and a subtle but delightful juniper finish.

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Rum

Our take on sweet, Caribbean-style unaged rum, we combine molasses and dark brown sugar to distill this rich, tropical spirit.

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Blue agave spirit

Like Mexican tequilas, but distilled in Birmingham, AL, this "agave spirit" is surprisingly mellow with subtle fruity, earthy, herbal notes on the palate and a strong citrus fragrance.

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Double barrel aged agave

Our Double Barrel Aged Agave is the inaugural product in our Adventure Series. Distilled in Birmingham from 100% Blue Agave and aged nearly 3 years in both Bourbon and Sherry casks, this spirit is spicy, smoky, and even a little sweet.

Silver Medal Winner at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition.

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THE SPIRITS

Introducing the Quarterly Release Program from Norman’s Bourbon – your exclusive opportunity to own a piece of bourbon heritage. Each quarter, we release a limited number of our handcrafted bourbon barrels (1.75 liters) , allowing you to experience the art of aging bourbon in your own way. Each release brings expert aging techniques, unique flavors, carefully crafted with a variety of Mash Bills, Scotches, Rums, Tequilas, and Aged Agaves to mention a few.

Quarterly Release Program

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OUR REVIEWS

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, Dread River spirits are available for online purchase and can be shipped across the United States, certain states are excluded. Please visit our online shop for more details. Alabama residents can also find our products at ABC stores, local package stores, or by visiting our Tasting Room.

Our Tasting Room is open Tuesday through Friday from 3 pm - 10 pm and Saturday 12 pm - 11 pm. Our bottle shop is open Tuesday through Saturday from 11 am until close. We also offer reservations for special events. For more information, please give us a call at 205-588-1744.

Yes, we offer guided tours of our distillery, where you can learn about the production process and the artistry behind our spirits. Reserve your spot in advance through our website or call us at 205-588-1744.

Yes! Our Tasting Room features a full-service kitchen, where we offer a curated selection of dishes to pair with our handcrafted spirits. Our bar serves a range of unique cocktails made completely from our own craft spirits..

Absolutely! We have a stunning 4,000 sq. ft. event space that can be customized for any occasion, from intimate gatherings to large corporate events or weddings! Inquire about booking your event by contacting our events team at events@dreadriver.com.

We offer a variety of handcrafted spirits, including Straight Bourbon, Blackstrap Rum, Vodka, Gin, Rye Whiskey, and Agave Spirits, all created with the finest ingredients and attention to detail.

We offer exclusive content, early access to product releases, and special event invitations through our newsletter. Be sure to sign up on our website to join the adventure and stay updated on discounts and new products. >

Yes, Dread River spirits are available at ABC stores and local package stores throughout Birmingham. You can also visit our Tasting Room at the distillery for a more personalized experience.

Yes! Our 4,000 sq. ft. event space is ideal for weddings, receptions, corporate events, and other celebrations. We offer catering, audio/visual support, and customized planning to ensure your event is unforgettable.

A visit to Dread River offers a unique, elevated experience. You’ll enjoy a combination of handcrafted spirits, delicious food, an elegant atmosphere, and a story-driven adventure inspired by the spirit of overcoming challenges.

Our Quarterly Release Program offers an exclusive opportunity to own limited-edition barrels of our handcrafted bourbon. Each quarter, we release a select batch of barrels, giving you the chance to experience rare aging techniques and unique flavors.

Yes, as an alcohol manufacturer, you must be 21 or older to enjoy our tasting room and purchase alcohol on-site. Guests under 21 can visit with an adult but will not be able to participate in tastings.

You can reach us by phone at 205-588-1744 or email us at info@dreadriver.com. For specific inquiries, feel free to reach out to Suzanne Cisneros (Director of Operations) at suzanne@dreadriver.com, or for sales, contact Clifford Adams at sales@dreadriver.com.

Dread River's whiskey is crafted in small batches with a focus on bold flavors, rich traditions, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. Our flagship bourbon, made from 60% corn, 30% wheat, and 10% malted barley, is the first bourbon distilled in Birmingham in over 100 years.