Charleston: Striped Pig Distillery Tour and Tasting

Imagine wandering through Charleston’s historic streets and then stepping behind the scenes of its first distillery since Prohibition. That’s exactly what you get with the Striped Pig Distillery Tour and Tasting. This experience offers a unique peek into the art of spirit-making, combined with a friendly, family-run atmosphere that keeps it authentic and accessible.

What we really appreciate about this tour is how knowledgeable guides make the process engaging, bringing the story of the distillery to life with humor and insight. Plus, the chance to sample award-winning spirits—from vodka to bourbon—means you leave with more than just memories; you have the taste to remember them by.

A potential drawback? The tour is just 45 minutes, so if you’re hoping for a full-on deep dive into distillery operations, you might wish for a bit more time. Still, it’s perfectly suited for curious travelers who enjoy a hands-on experience, as well as those interested in supporting local, woman-owned businesses. If you love discovering local flavors and learning about small-scale craft, this tour is a winner.

Key Points

• First distillery in Charleston since Prohibition offers a historic touch.
• Engaging guides enhance the understanding of spirit-making.
• Tasting session features award-winning spirits with high ratings.
• Short but informative tour packed with insight and flavor.
• Opportunity to purchase bottles directly from the distillery.
• Wheelchair accessible and suitable for most visitors over 21.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What Is the Charleston Striped Pig Distillery Tour?

This guided experience takes you behind the scenes of Charleston’s first distillery since the 1930s, offering a taste of the city’s resilience and entrepreneurial spirit. Female ownership and family-running make it stand out as a genuinely local venture that’s proud of its roots.

The tour lasts about 45 minutes, a manageable chunk of time that lets you explore the facility, learn about the history, and see how different spirits like vodka, rum, gin, bourbon, and tequila are crafted. The small group setting ensures you get personalized attention, making it easy to ask questions and soak up the stories.

The Itinerary and What to Expect

Upon arrival, you’ll find the distillery behind Duvall Catering off Azalea Drive, a quiet spot away from the bustling historic district. The visit starts with a brief history of the distillery, highlighting its significance as a pioneer in Charleston’s post-Prohibition era.

Your guide—likely someone like Remy, praised for being great and informative—walks you through the distillation process. We loved the way guides explain technical details in simple language without dumbing down the craft. You’ll see the equipment and get a sense of the small-batch, family-run nature of their operation, which emphasizes quality over quantity.

Following the tour, you’ll move to the tasting session. Here, you’ll sample a curated selection of spirits that have earned over 500 five-star reviews, so the quality is not in question. Expect to taste their award-winning vodka, rum, gin, bourbon, tequila, and other specialties. The spirits are known for their distinct flavors and craftsmanship, making it worth paying attention to the subtle differences.

Why the Tasting Matters

The tasting is the real highlight. It’s a chance to appreciate the skill that goes into each bottle, as well as the flavors that have earned numerous accolades. Many visitors mention the friendly, approachable atmosphere, which makes trying spirits feel more like enjoying a drink with friends than a formal lesson.

If you find a particular spirit you enjoy, you’re encouraged to purchase bottles to take home. Prices are reasonable, and buying directly from the distillery supports the local business and helps keep the spirits’ story alive.

Additional Offerings and Considerations

Post-tour, you’re welcome to stay at the full bar for craft cocktails—an inviting way to continue your sampling experience. The bar menu is crafted from their spirits, allowing you to see how the flavors translate into cocktails.

Transportation isn’t included, so plan accordingly. The tour operates in the afternoon, making it a perfect midday activity to balance out historic sights or a relaxing way to end your day.

The tour is wheelchair accessible, and legal drinking age is strictly 21 and over. Remember to bring a passport or ID for proof of age.

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The Big Picture: Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience appeals most to travelers who enjoy supporting local businesses and want a more intimate look at Charleston’s craft spirits scene. It’s ideal for those who value authentic stories over commercialized attractions and appreciate knowledgeable guides who can make technical details fun and understandable.

If you’re a fan of small-batch spirits or simply curious about how your favorite liquors are made, this tour offers a compelling, taste-driven experience. It’s also perfect for celebrating special occasions, such as the reviewer’s 39th wedding anniversary, adding a personal touch to your Charleston visit.

Final Thoughts

The Striped Pig Distillery Tour and Tasting offers a rare glimpse into Charleston’s spirit-making history, combined with the craftsmanship of a passionate, woman-owned business. It’s a compact, engaging experience that offers genuine value for the price of around $22 per person.

What makes this tour stand out is the friendly guidance and high-quality spirits. It’s not just about seeing where spirits are made but truly understanding and appreciating the effort that goes into each bottle. The ability to buy bottles on-site adds a tangible souvenir to remember your visit.

For travelers who crave authentic, small-scale experiences and want a memorable taste of Charleston’s local flavor, this tour is hard to beat. It’s perfect for those who enjoy learning about the craft, savoring spirits, and supporting small businesses — all in a relaxed, welcoming environment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for people under 21?
No, it’s only for those 21 and over, as it involves tasting spirits.

How long does the tour last?
The guided tour and tasting take about 45 minutes.

Where do I meet for the tour?
The distillery is located behind Duvall Catering off Azalea Drive. You head inside and up to the bar area.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes, the distillery is wheelchair accessible.

What is included in the price?
You get a guided tour of the distillery, a brief history, and a tasting of their award-winning spirits.

Can I buy spirits to take home?
Absolutely. Bottles are available for purchase after the tasting.

Is there a bar where I can enjoy cocktails?
Yes, after the tour, you can stay and enjoy craft cocktails made from their spirits.

Do I need to reserve in advance?
Yes, reservations are recommended. You can reserve now and pay later, offering flexibility.

What should I bring?
Bring a passport or ID card to prove you are 21+.

How much does the tour cost?
It’s $22 per person, which is quite reasonable given the quality and intimacy of the experience.

To sum it up, the Charleston Striped Pig Distillery Tour and Tasting offers a sincere and engaging dive into local spirit craftsmanship. It’s perfect for curious travelers wanting to support small, woman-owned businesses and eager to taste a variety of quality spirits. Whether you’re celebrating a special moment or simply want a different way to enjoy Charleston, this tour balances informative storytelling with flavorful fun — a genuine highlight for those who appreciate craftsmanship and authenticity.

You can check availability for your dates here: