Around Town: Distilling A New Venture From The Makers of Firefly Distillery

Firefly Distillery: Where Southern Spirits Meet Lowcountry Culture
In the heart of South Carolina’s Lowcountry lies Firefly Distillery, a brand that has become synonymous with the region’s flavor and hospitality. Founded in 2005 by Scott Newitt and Jim Irvin, Firefly is perhaps best known for producing the world’s first sweet tea vodka. What began as a small operation on Wadmalaw Island quickly grew into the largest and most popular distillery in South Carolina, moving to a more expansive location in North Charleston in 2020.

Firefly’s story is as deeply rooted in the Lowcountry as the live oaks and marshes that surround it. From the moment you step onto the sprawling grounds, you’re greeted with the kind of Southern hospitality that makes you feel right at home. Surrounded by centuries-old oak trees and iconic marsh views, Firefly Distillery offers a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere perfect for escaping the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Whether you’re a seasoned spirits enthusiast or just looking to enjoy some time outdoors with friends and family, Firefly’s laid-back vibe invites you to stay a while.

The experience begins in the tasting room, where guests can sample a variety of Firefly’s famous spirits. The knowledgeable and lively staff guide you through the offerings, from the iconic flavored vodkas and moonshines to more recent small-batch bourbons and whiskeys. Those with a taste for cocktails will want to explore the distillery’s seasonal craft cocktail menu, allowing you to sip your drink while taking in the surrounding beauty.

What sets Firefly apart is not just the quality of its spirits, but the welcoming atmosphere and the green space to spread out, sit back, and stay a while. It’s more than just a place to taste; it’s a destination to savor and relax. Guests are encouraged to take their time, sip slowly, and fully embrace the Lowcountry’s leisurely pace. With plenty of green space to spread out, a covered Back Porch, live music on Saturdays, and local food trucks, it’s easy to lose track of time and enjoy the laid-back charm of this unique destination.

A New Era: Tom & Huck Distillers

This year rolled in a new era for the makers of Firefly Distillery. The newest venture, Tom & Huck Distillers, marks a strong step into the world of bourbons, whiskeys, and aged brown spirits. This new distilling collection brings a focus to high-quality spirits here in the maritime climate of the Lowcountry. Located on the grounds of the distillery, Tom & Huck Distillers is the brainchild of Scott Newitt and Jim Irvin, keeping family at its core.

“After over twenty years of crafting exceptional vodkas and moonshines influenced by southern flavors, we’re thrilled to announce Tom & Huck Distillers, continuing our adventure into the world of brown spirits,” says Scott Newitt, co-founder of Firefly Distillery and Tom & Huck Distillers. “As we created more in the way of aged spirits over the years, we’re excited to introduce new products, and offer an elevated experience for both the bourbon enthusiast and those who wish to explore brown spirits in more depth.”

Through the last twenty years, Newitt and Irvin stayed consistent and authentic, working incredibly hard to hone the subtleties of their craft and maximizing the benefits of their coastal location and climate to bring their newest adventure to life: Tom & Huck Distillers. The Tom & Huck Distillers collection of spirits is refined in a way that only two decades of experience and consistent attention to detail can deliver. Featured products under this collection include Steel Feathers, a line of flavored whiskeys; LIVE, a line of hand-selected straight bourbon whiskey; and the signature Bend & Steal American Whiskey, aged and then finished in Madeira casks.

One of the most fascinating aspects of Tom & Huck Distillers is how the Lowcountry’s maritime climate plays a role in aging the spirits. In Charleston’s hot and humid climate, the barrels in which the bourbon ages are more exposed to fluctuating temperatures, allowing the liquid to interact more intensely with the wood. This results in a richer, more complex flavor profile that reflects the unique character of the Lowcountry. It also allows for a quicker aging process than something you can even get in Kentucky, the bourbon capital of the world. The result is a bourbon that is undeniably Southern in its boldness and complexity, embodying the spirit of Charleston itself​.

A Southern Spirit and Sound: Live Bourbon and Concerts

In addition to producing some of the region’s finest spirits, Firefly Distillery has also made a name for itself as a premier destination for live music. The distillery regularly hosts concerts, where guests can enjoy Firefly’s signature drinks while taking in performances from local and national artists. The “LIVE” product line of straight bourbon whiskeys brings together the best of both worlds—great music and even better spirits.

These events create a lively, communal atmosphere that encourages guests to kick back and enjoy the full Lowcountry experience. With a cold drink in hand and the sound of music filling the air, it’s easy to see why Firefly has become a beloved spot for locals and visitors alike​.

Firefly Distillery’s blend of rich Southern heritage, innovative distilling, and vibrant entertainment makes it a true Lowcountry gem. Whether you're stopping by for a tour, tasting their award-winning spirits, or attending a concert, the Firefly experience is one that’s hard to forget. With the introduction of Tom & Huck Distillers, the distillery has cemented its reputation as a leader in the evolving Southern bourbon scene, capturing the essence of the Lowcountry in every bottle.

For those looking to explore Firefly or Tom & Huck Distillers, you can visit the distillery at 4201 Spruill Avenue in North Charleston, where Southern spirits and hospitality are always on tap.