North Carolina craft spirits innovator Oaklore Distilling Co today announced a new strategic partnership with Johnson Brothers of North Carolina, a leading wine, spirits and beer distributor. Aimed at broadening the availability of Oaklore’s premium spirits in bars, restaurants, and retailers throughout the state, this collaboration marks Oaklore’s ascent in the craft whiskey space as consumers more consistently seek out high-quality, locally produced spirits.
With Johnson Brothers at the helm of the brand’s regional distribution strategy, North Carolina whiskey fans will be able to taste a spirit that represents the Tar Heel state’s unique Piedmont region. Relative to other American Whiskey producing regions, North Carolina’s Piedmont is an ideal climate, particularly when it comes to barrel aging. The humid subtropical environment experiences broad temperature swings more frequently than in Kentucky and other regions, resulting in a more consistent, year-by-year aging process — one that naturally allows for a more uniform whiskey profile.
A multi-generational, family-owned distributor founded in 1953, Johnson Brothers has established operations in 17 states and employs more than 4,000 workers. The brand is committed to its founding values of work ethic, passion, innovation, teamwork, excellence and integrity.
“We have seen a real trend of consumers actively seeking out local spirits as their go-to everyday selections, particularly in the whiskey category,” noted Thomas Bogan, co-founder of Oaklore Distilling Co. “From our hometown of Charlotte to Raleigh-Durham, Asheville, the Outer Banks and beyond, we’re excited to see our core range of whiskeys and specialty releases available on back bars and liquor store shelves across the state through this new partnership with Johnson Brothers. This also will serve as the foundation of our sales strategy as we expand across the U.S.”
“We are thrilled to partner with Oaklore Distilling Co and bring their exceptional spirits to more consumers throughout North Carolina,” said Will Clements, North Carolina spirits director at Johnson Brothers. “Their commitment to craftsmanship and community aligns perfectly with our values, and we look forward to a very successful collaboration.”
Opened in 2022 by neighbors Matt Simpkins and Thomas Bogan, Oaklore Distilling Co has rapidly gained recognition for its award-winning products, community engagement and ongoing philanthropic efforts. The distillery offers a wide range of spirits, including its Four Grain Bourbon, 6-year-old North Carolina Straight Rye Whiskey and its Story Series limited-edition whiskey releases. In June of this year, Oaklore launched a charitable initiative to support Hurricane Helene recovery efforts. For every Oaklore cocktail sold at select participating bars and restaurants in the Charlotte area, the company donated $5 to the Community Foundation of Henderson County up to $10,000.
Oaklore’s whiskeys are also available for national shipping via the brand’s website.
