Moonshine Capital of Georgia

Once designated the “Moonshine Capital of Georgia,” Rabun County has a long-standing history in the production of alcoholic spirits. During the early 20th century, moonshine was often the only source of income available for subsistence farmers in the rural mountains of Northeast Georgia. And the beautiful, yet formidable mountains themselves provided the perfect environment for bootleggers to carry out their activities, which many viewed as a craft as much as a business.

Today, of course, those stills have long since been dismantled and other, more practical industries have grown up in the county to take their place, primarily tourism. Fortunately, the amazing mountains of the Southern Appalachians also provide the perfect environment for activities such as hiking, camping, waterfalling, mountain biking and so much more. Visitors revel in the spectacular views and pristine natural landscapes that take them out of the ordinary and in to the extraordinary. However, despite the newfound appeal of the area, the traditions and culture of those early moonshiners are not completely lost. Moonshining is alive and well in Rabun County (legally)! 

Travelers today, come to the mountains of Northeast Georgia to find an easy and affordable treasure trove of outdoor adventure coupled with quaint, small-town charm. Just two hours north of Atlanta, Rabun County has become the backyard playground for many urban warriors who long for escape on the weekends. But along with their need for fresh air and thrilling activities, they bring their thirst for quality consumption, particularly in beverages.

As a result, the once thriving industry has been reborn. In the heart of Downtown Clayton, Moonrise Distillery has set up shop, crafting artisan spirits that have earned praises both statewide and nationally, winning many awards for their spirits and for the distillery overall. At Moonrise, they’re distilling as it’s been done since the early 1850’s, using a double-distillation process for a more refined and complex craft spirit and aging by taste, not time. Visit the distillery to see them plying their skills and enjoy the results at the barrel house.

Or for those who prefer a more refined ambiance, stop by the Moonrise Speakeasy to sample expertly made cocktails served in Italian crystal while you relax by the fire on an over-stuffed sofa. For a nouvelle twist to locally crafted spirits, look no further than Oldknow Bev Co., a micro-distillery specializing in botanical gins, seltzers, amaros, and alpine liqueurs. After a day on the trails or lakes, relax and enjoy the stunning views of the mountains from the back patio while you sip their unique and delectable concoctions. 

Beyond artisan spirits, Rabun County also hosts some outstanding mountain wineries. Terra Incognita is Georgia’s highest elevation vineyard, offering panoramic views from the top of Stoney Mountain along with their award-winning varietals. Tiger Mountain Vineyards, the first vineyard in Georgia to grow noble European grapes such as Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay, is like a trip to Tuscany with its old-world charm. 

Stonewall Creek Vineyards, voted Georgia’s best winery in 2025 by James Magazine, feels straight out of a classic novel. 12 Spies Vineyard is like your own backyard winery, with its relaxed atmosphere and live music on weekends. And, if you’re a beer lover, Currahee Brewing Co. will fill the bill with a brew for every palate.

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Clearly, the legacy of those original moonshiners is honored by a new generation of distillers, brewers, and vintners, earning Rabun County a renovated reputation for excellence in the production of award-winning libations. And the great thing is, it all goes hand in hand with those ever-present, beautiful mountains and their incredible surroundings. Visit ExploreRabun.com to plan your visit today.