Frequently Asked Questions

Got questions? We’ve got answers. Find helpful information about our visiting and 21+ policies, spirits, liqueurs and Liquistry, ordering and distribution, events, live music, and Bear Barrels.

Let’s raise a glass to curiosity!

Visiting & 21+ Policies

Is House Of Applejay strictly 21+?

Yes. House Of Applejay is exclusively a 21+ facility. Children and anyone under 21 may not enter the tasting room, join a tasting or tour, visit the Bear Barrel Patio, or attend live music, watch parties, and special events.

Located in dry Gilmer County, we take our responsibility as an alcohol producer seriously. We respect every child’s right to an alcohol-free childhood and support Responsibility.org’s mission to prevent underage drinking and promote responsible alcohol choices.

Do I need to bring identification?

Yes. Please bring a valid, government-issued photo ID. Guests may be asked to verify their age before entering or purchasing alcoholic beverages.

Can designated drivers and non-drinking guests visit?

Yes. Designated drivers and non-drinking guests are welcome, provided they are at least 21 years old. Drinking is never required to enjoy a visit.

Do I need a reservation to visit the tasting room?

No. Walk-ins are welcome during regular business hours. Please check our Hours & Updates page before traveling, as hours may change for holidays, private functions, or special events.

What tasting options are available?

Guests can explore our award-winning spirits and liqueurs through available tasting experiences. Our team will explain the current tasting options when you arrive.

What are your tasting-room hours?

Our hours may change seasonally or for special events. Please visit our Hours & Updates page for the current schedule before planning your visit.

How do I book a History & Tasting Tour?

History & Tasting Tours must be booked in advance through our Tastings & Tours page. You’ll explore the history of liqueurs and distilling while tasting selected House Of Applejay creations.

Do you accommodate group visits?

Yes, but groups should contact us before visiting. Our tasting room is small, and advance notice allows us to provide the best possible experience. Every group member must be at least 21 years old.

Where is House Of Applejay located?

House Of Applejay is located at:

67 Fowler Street, Building B
East Ellijay, Georgia 30540

Please follow the signs for Building B and visit our Directions page before traveling.

Why doesn’t House Of Applejay accept tips?

We do not accept tips. Guests order and collect their drinks at the bar and return their glassware when finished. If you enjoyed your visit, the best way to support us is by leaving a review, recommending us to friends, or following House Of Applejay online.

Is food service or outside food available at the tasting room?

House Of Applejay does not offer food service or regularly host food trucks. Outside food and picnicking are not normally permitted unless announced for a special event or needed as a reasonable disability-related accommodation.

Is the tasting room accessible?

House Of Applejay welcomes guests with disabilities. Guests who would like information about accessible parking, entrances, seating, restrooms, or reasonable accommodations may contact us before visiting. Advance contact is helpful but not required for general admission.

How should I plan safe transportation?

Please designate a driver or arrange transportation before your visit. Our staff can also provide information about recommended bus tours and event transportation options.

Spirits, Liqueurs & Liquistry

What makes House Of Applejay Distillery unique?

House Of Applejay is an independent, women-owned, liqueur-first distillery in East Ellijay, Georgia. We place liqueurs at the center of production, flavor development, modern mixology, and the tasting-room experience. Our small-batch creations are inspired by the Southern Appalachians and centuries of liqueur-making tradition.

What does “liqueur-first distillery” mean?

It means liqueurs are our primary focus rather than a secondary addition to a whiskey, vodka, or gin portfolio. We approach liqueurs as complete, expressive spirits that can be enjoyed simply or used to build exceptional cocktails.

What spirits and liqueurs does House Of Applejay produce?

Our current released collection includes:

• Applejay from Ellijay — Apple Liqueur — 27.5% ABV
• Winter Cherry Mountain — Cherry Liqueur — 27.5% ABV
• Cranberry Mountain — Cranberry Liqueur — 27.5% ABV
• Mt. Wildcat — Old-Style Juniper Liqueur — 38% ABV
• Mt. Grassy Knob — Sweet Grass Naturally Flavored Vodka — 37.5% ABV
• Mt. Frozen Knob — Vodka — 40% ABV

Product availability may vary. Please refer to the individual bottle label and product page for current information.

What is the difference between liqueur and moonshine?

Liqueurs have a documented history spanning centuries. Under U.S. regulations, cordials and liqueurs are flavored distilled spirits made with fruits, flowers, plants, juices, other natural flavoring materials, or extracts derived from them, and must contain at least 2.5% sugar by weight of the finished product. For domestically produced liqueurs, TTB formula approval is required before label approval.

“Flavored moonshine” is not a federally defined class or type of distilled spirits. Depending on its formulation, a product marketed under that term may be classified as a flavored spirit, liqueur, or distilled spirits specialty. Distilled spirits specialty products may contain natural or artificial flavors, colors, sweeteners, or other added ingredients, depending on the formula.

What is the difference between liquor and liqueur?

Liquor is a general term for distilled spirits such as vodka, whiskey, rum, brandy, and gin. A liqueur is a federally defined class of flavored distilled spirits containing sweetness.

House Of Applejay specializes in small-batch liqueurs made with natural flavoring ingredients and without artificial flavors, artificial colors, or added preservatives.

What is a liqueurist?

A liqueurist is a specialist in the history, formulation, production, and use of liqueurs. Much like a distiller or winemaker, a liqueurist develops recipes, carefully balances ingredients, and creates distinctive liqueurs, each with its own flavor, character, and purpose.

Caroline Porsiel independently developed this contemporary definition and adopted the professional title “liqueurist” to describe her specialized work in modern American liqueur making. Through House of Applejay and Liquistry, she has defined the role as a distinct practice centered on the art, craft, and modern use of liqueurs.

What is Liquistry?

Liquistry is the guiding philosophy behind how House Of Applejay develops liqueurs. It brings together natural ingredients, liqueur-making traditions, modern production, and contemporary mixology.

What are Liquistry Cocktails?

Liquistry Cocktails are built around liqueurs rather than treating them as an afterthought. A carefully balanced liqueur can provide flavor, sweetness, aroma, and structure—often reducing the need for simple syrup and multiple additional ingredients.

Are your products made with high quality ingredients?

Yes. House Of Applejay products are made with selected ingredients and without artificial flavors, colors, aromas, glitter, or preservatives. This commitment is central to our production philosophy.

Are liqueurs always extremely sweet?

No. Liqueurs contain sweetness, but the level and balance vary considerably. House Of Applejay develops flavor-forward liqueurs that balance sweetness with fruit, herbs, botanicals, spices, or combinations thereof.

Do you serve cocktails in the tasting room?

Yes. Our tasting room serves signature cocktails made with House Of Applejay spirits and liqueurs. The menu includes original recipes, seasonal offerings, and Liquistry Cocktails.

How should House Of Applejay liqueurs be enjoyed?

Our liqueurs can be enjoyed neat, over ice, paired with food, or mixed into cocktails. Visit our Cocktail Library for recipes and serving inspiration.

Do you serve cocktails in the tasting room?

Yes. Our tasting room serves signature cocktails made with House Of Applejay spirits and liqueurs. The menu includes original recipes, seasonal offerings, and Liquistry Cocktails.

Where can I find cocktail recipes?

Visit our Cocktail Library to explore signature cocktails, Liquistry Cocktails, BearTender recipes, garnishes, and cocktails organized by bottle.

Do you sell cocktail cherries and garnishes?

No. We do not sell cocktail cherries or garnishes. However, the recipe for our cocktail cherries is available online and in our tasting room.

What is the alcohol content of your products?

Our products range from 15% to 40% alcohol by volume. The exact alcohol content is shown on every bottle and individual product page.

Are House Of Applejay products made in East Ellijay?

Yes. House Of Applejay develops and produces its small-batch spirits and liqueurs at our distillery in East Ellijay, Georgia.

Do your liqueurs need to be refrigerated?

Bottled spirits and liqueurs generally do not require refrigeration. Store bottles tightly closed in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Follow the specific storage instructions provided for cocktail cherries and other garnishes.

How long do your liqueurs last after opening?

When tightly closed and stored away from heat and direct sunlight, our liqueurs maintain their quality for an extended period. Contact us if you have a question about a specific bottle or product.

Do your products contain allergens?

Ingredients vary by product. Anyone with a food allergy or specific dietary concern should speak with our team or contact us before purchasing or tasting a product.

Is House Of Applejay women-owned?

Yes. House Of Applejay is a women-owned and operated distillery founded and led by Caroline Porsiel. Her mother, Sabine Porsiel, works alongside her in the distillery.

What is the story behind Applejay from Ellijay?

Our flagship liqueur pays tribute to the Ellijays—Georgia’s apple capital at the foothills of the Southern Appalachians. Applejay from Ellijay captures the essence of crisp, sweet apples in a bottle, celebrating our local roots with every sip.

Applejay from Ellijay was selected for the Georgia Chamber’s Coolest Thing Made in Georgia competition in both 2025 and 2026 and advanced to Georgia’s Top 16 in 2026.

Have your products won any awards?

Yes. Winter Cherry Mountain Liqueur received Double Gold at the 2025 San Francisco World Spirits Competition—the only fruit liqueur from the United States to earn that distinction that year.

Every House Of Applejay product has earned recognition, including a clean sweep at the 2024 New York World Spirits Competition: one Gold, three Silver, and one Bronze.

These honors celebrate the quality and craftsmanship behind our small-batch spirits and liqueurs made with natural ingredients.

What is the AMBRU Campaign, and why does House Of Applejay support it?

The AMBRU Campaign is a national initiative supporting the recognition and advancement of American Brandy and American Rum. Caroline Porsiel is a co-founder of the campaign, which promotes American production, industry collaboration, education, tourism, and international growth for these historic American spirits.

Do you practice sustainable production?

Sustainability matters to us. From eco-friendly packaging materials to reusable bottles and promoting local tourism, we're committed to minimizing our environmental footprint while supporting our community.

Ordering & Distribution

How can I order House Of Applejay products?

Yes, we’re live for ordering!

Order House Of Applejay products now:👉 Click here how to order

Available for licensed buyers in Georgia— more states are in the works! 

Where can I buy House Of Applejay products?

Our products are available at the distillery and through select retailers. Visit our Where to Buy page for current locations and availability.

Can consumers order House Of Applejay products online?

Our online trade-ordering system is intended for licensed restaurants, bars, and retailers. Consumers can purchase bottles at the distillery or through participating retail locations.

Does House Of Applejay ship directly to consumers?

House Of Applejay does not currently ship directly to consumers through our website. Please visit our Where to Buy page for available purchasing options.

In which states are your products available?

House Of Applejay products are available at our Georgia tasting room and through select markets in Georgia. Availability varies, so please check our Where to Buy page before traveling.

How can restaurants, bars, and retailers order?

Licensed Georgia buyers can order through Savannah Distribution. For ordering assistance or information about another market, email info@houseofapplejay.com.

Who distributes House Of Applejay in Georgia?

House Of Applejay is distributed in Georgia by Savannah Distributing. Licensed buyers may contact Savannah Distribution or House Of Applejay for ordering assistance.

Can I ask my local retailer to carry House Of Applejay?

Absolutely. Please ask your retailer, restaurant, or bar to contact us at info@houseofapplejay.com. We will be happy to provide the appropriate distribution information.

Can I purchase a bottle as a gift?

Yes. Bottles may be purchased as gifts for adults who are at least 21 years old. All purchases and transfers must comply with applicable alcohol laws.

How can a distributor contact House Of Applejay?

Distribution inquiries are welcome. Please email info@houseofapplejay.com or call 404-771-4332.

Events, Music & Bear Barrels

Does House Of Applejay host special events?

Yes. We host seasonal celebrations, live music, historical programs, watch parties, tasting experiences, and signature events throughout the year. Every event is strictly 21+.

When does House Of Applejay offer live music?

Live music is offered on select dates throughout the year. Visit our Upcoming Events page or follow House Of Applejay on Facebook and Instagram for current announcements.

Are tickets or reservations required for events?

Requirements vary by event. Each event listing will explain whether advance registration, tickets, or reservations are required. Seating may be limited.

Are all events strictly 21+?

Yes. House Of Applejay is an exclusively 21+ facility. Children and anyone under 21 may not enter the tasting room, participate in tastings or tours, visit the Bear Barrel Patio, or attend live music, watch parties, and special events.

We take our responsibilities as an alcohol producer seriously and support Responsibility.org’s mission to prevent underage drinking and encourage responsible alcohol choices.

What are House Of Applejay watch parties?

Our watch parties bring major sporting events to the tasting room on our 100-inch screen. Guests can enjoy House Of Applejay cocktails while watching together in a relaxed mountain setting.

Are tastings available during watch parties and special events?

Tastings may be paused during select watch parties or high-attendance events. Cocktails remain available unless otherwise stated in the event announcement.

What is the Bear Barrel Patio?

The Bear Barrel Patio is our outdoor tasting area featuring custom barrel-shaped seating inspired by black bears and distilling traditions. The Bear Barrels provide a distinctive outdoor setting protected from the elements.

Is the Bear Barrel Patio open in bad weather?

Outdoor availability depends on current weather and event conditions. The Bear Barrels provide some protection, but the patio may close during severe or unsafe weather.

Are dogs allowed during outdoor events?

Leashed dogs are welcome unless an individual event announcement states otherwise. Owners are responsible for supervising their dogs throughout the visit.

Can I arrange a private event or group experience?

Please contact us to discuss your group or event. Availability depends on the date, group size, and tasting-room schedule. Every attendee must be at least 21 years old.

What is the story behind the Bear Barrels?

The Bear Barrels combine two symbols closely connected to House Of Applejay: the black bears of the Southern Appalachians and the barrels traditionally associated with spirits. They have become a signature part of the distillery experience.

Can Bear Barrels be purchased for commercial use?

Commercial inquiries are welcome. Please contact info@houseofapplejay.com to discuss available styles, pricing, and potential projects.

How can I stay updated about events, new products, and changing hours?

Subscribe to our newsletter, visit our Hours & Updates and Upcoming Events pages, or follow House Of Applejay on Facebook and Instagram.

Contact House Of Applejay

How can I contact House Of Applejay?

Email info@houseofapplejay.com or call 404-771-4332.

What is the distillery’s address?

House Of Applejay Distillery
67 Fowler Street, Building B
East Ellijay, Georgia 30540