Scot Sanborn has been waiting for this day for a long time.

But after an arduous federal approval process, he’s almost ready to kick off the Triad’s only legal distillery, and the first in Winston-Salem in more than 200 years.

Sutler’s Spirit, named for the men who used to supply alcohol to troops in conflicts such as the Revolutionary and Civil wars, has announced its grand opening party on April 25. The event will also double as the company’s gin release. Down the road, Sutler’s Spirit will also sell rum.

Other distilleries are planned in the Triad — equipment and signage is already visible at Broad Branch distillery on Trade Street in Winston-Salem — but Sutler’s is the first to officially open its doors.

It’s been more than a year in process; Triad City Beat printed the first interview with Sanborn a year ago. The distillery operates at the West End Mill Works, between Hoots brewery and bar and the Porch Cantina restaurant.

Join the First Amendment Society, a membership that goes directly to funding TCB‘s newsroom.

We believe that reporting can save the world.

The TCB First Amendment Society recognizes the vital role of a free, unfettered press with a bundling of local experiences designed to build community, and unique engagements with our newsroom that will help you understand, and shape, local journalism’s critical role in uplifting the people in our cities.

All revenue goes directly into the newsroom as reporters’ salaries and freelance commissions.

⚡ Join The Society ⚡