Grandaddy Mimm's Distilling Co. "The Co-Op"

If you're looking for a place where Appalachian legends come to life, then Grandaddy Mimm's Distilling Co. is a mandatory stop on your itinerary. Located in the heart of Blairsville, this modern distillery in the USA specializes in producing authentic corn whiskey, vodka, and other spirits.

Grandaddy Mimm's Distillery Co-Op. Иллюстрация. Источник: Kupi.com AI

It is not just a production site, but a true community hub, designed in the style of old American cooperatives. The establishment is named after Jack "Mimm" McClure, a legendary bootlegger whose family recipes from the Great Depression era form the foundation of the entire product line. Today, the grandfather's legacy is carried on by his grandson, Tommy Townsend, who carefully preserves the distillation traditions.

Visitors will find a cozy atmosphere here, filled with the aromas of grain and history. In addition to tastings, the distillery offers a look at authentic artifacts from the past and shows how modern technology blends with production methods tested over decades. It is the perfect spot for those who appreciate quality spirits and genuine human stories.

To clarify details for your visit or to book a tour, it is recommended to contact the administration in advance. The distillery is located in the heart of the city and is easy to spot thanks to its prominent building. Staff members are always happy to answer questions about their products and the availability of special events.

The main adventure at Grandaddy Mimm's is, undoubtedly, the tasting. Visitors can sample the entire line of drinks: from classic corn moonshine in various flavors to smooth Owltown vodka and aged whiskey. Each pour is accompanied by a story about the secret ingredient or family anecdote behind that particular spirit.

A behind-the-scenes production tour is a must. You'll be shown how the stills operate and introduced to the stages of turning local raw materials into potent spirits. Among the equipment, you might encounter real treasures: an antique music box and a slot machine that belonged to Grandaddy Mimm himself back in the mid-20th century.

For those who just want to relax, there is a bar where bartenders craft signature cocktails using the distillery's products. It’s a great place to exchange a few words with the owners or fellow travelers, take atmospheric photos against the backdrop of copper stills, and purchase a few bottles of unique spirits you won't find on regular store shelves.

Grandaddy Mimm's Distilling Co. is located in the very center of Blairsville at 112 Wellborn St. This location is incredibly convenient for those who wish to stroll through the city's historic streets after a tasting. The town itself is situated in a picturesque mountain region in North Georgia, approximately a two-hour drive northeast of Atlanta.

The primary way to reach the distillery is by car. Travelers from Atlanta are recommended to follow US-19/129 or take I-985 through Helen, then continue heading north. Public transportation is limited in this region, so for a comfortable trip, it is best to use a personal vehicle or a taxi if you are already in the Appalachian area.

Parking spaces are provided near the distillery, making it much easier for road-trippers. During the summer season and mountain festivals, traffic can build up on the roads leading into the mountains, so plan your route with a little extra time to fully enjoy the atmosphere of North Georgia.

The roots of this establishment go back to the Great Depression era. In 1933, the legendary Jack "Mimm" McClure began producing his famous moonshine (corn whiskey) to provide for his family during hard times. His recipe quickly became known throughout Towns County as the best, and Mimm himself became a local legend. In 1941, he even opened his own establishment, The Border Hop, right on the state line, where he sold more than just spirits, creating a unique social atmosphere.

After Jack’s passing in 1969, his unique recipes were considered lost for many decades. However, in 2011, his grandson, the renowned country musician Tommy Townsend, decided to revive the family legacy. With the help of his Uncle George, who remembered the specifics of the process, Tommy managed to recreate the exact taste that once made his grandfather famous throughout the Appalachians.

Legal production began in 2012, and in 2016, the distillery moved to its current home in Blairsville. Today, it is more than just a facility; it’s a true family cooperative where Tommy’s daughter and son-in-law also work. They use copper stills built according to Mimm's own designs and water from local mountain springs, ensuring the products remain as authentic as possible.

Interestingly, inside the distillery, you can see genuine artifacts from Grandaddy Mimm's old bar, including a vintage slot machine and an original Victrola player. These items serve as a bridge between the past and the present, reminding visitors of a time when whiskey production was a matter of honor and family survival.

For a standard introduction to the distillery, including a tasting of several spirits and a brief look at the exhibits, 1–2 hours is sufficient for most tourists. If you plan to take a detailed production tour and want to take your time listening to stories from the owners, it is better to set aside a bit more time.

If your goal is simply to stop by and pick up a couple of bottles of signature moonshine or Owltown vodka as a souvenir, your visit will take about 30–45 minutes. However, the atmosphere of the establishment invites you to linger, sample cocktails, and chat with the locals.

The distillery welcomes guests Monday through Thursday from 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM. On Friday and Saturday, the establishment stays open longer—until 8:00 PM, making it a perfect spot to kick off an evening out in the city. The distillery is closed on Sundays.

Please keep in mind that the schedule may change on holidays or during private events. It is recommended to check the current opening hours on the distillery's official website before your visit.

The city of Blairsville is famous for its hospitality, and a visit to the distillery can easily be paired with a walk to other interesting sites within walking distance. Exploring the area will allow you to better experience the spirit of North Georgia and its rich history.

Just a few minutes' walk away, you'll find museums and cultural centers detailing mountain life, as well as cozy spots to grab a bite after your tasting.