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House Of Applejay Featured as “Winter’s Coziest Hidden Gem” by the Gilmer Chamber of Commerce

Cozy Up This Winter at House of Applejay Distillery — Ellijay’s Must-Visit Spirits Destination

East Ellijay, GA —Jan 20th, 2026 – Winter in North Georgia just got more spirited. In a recent feature from the Gilmer Chamber of Commerce titled “Winter’s Coziest Hidden Gem: House of Applejay Distillery,” the region’s only liqueur-first distillery is highlighted as an essential stop for winter visitors exploring Ellijay Wine Country.

Nestled in the Appalachian foothills, House of Applejay Distillery invites guests to escape the cold and indulge in a warm, engaging experience that celebrates handcrafted liqueurs made with all-natural ingredients and time-honored techniques. Founded by distiller and liqueurist Caroline Porsiel, whose work focuses on reviving historic liqueur-making traditions through modern American production, the distillery revives one of the world’s oldest spirits traditions through small-batch expressions shaped by a distinctly modern American perspective.

Visitors begin with a conversational tasting that not only showcases the distillery’s signature spirits but also tells the story of liqueur-making itself. Signature pours like the bright, apple-forward Applejay — inspired by Georgia’s apple heritage — and the richly layered Winter Cherry Mountain, winner of Double Gold at the 2025 San Francisco World Spirits Competition, reflect the quality and creativity behind every bottle.

Complementing the tasting room experience, the cocktail-forward menu features guest favorites such as the refreshing Georgia Iced Tea (with Applejay) and elevated Cherry Cola (made with Winter Cherry Mountain), while seasonal warm pours like the comforting Hot Teddy and indulgent Hot Cherry Chocolate add a cozy, fireside element to winter visits.

Guests also enjoy gathering inside the iconic Bear Barrels — Georgia’s largest sit-in barrels — which foster a relaxed, social atmosphere. House of Applejay’s recognition extends beyond the local level: Applejay from Ellijay was named one of the Coolest Things Made in Georgia by the Georgia Chamber of Commerce, and the distillery was voted Best Distillery in Georgia by Georgia Business Journal, underscoring its growing reputation within the state’s spirits and tourism landscape.

“As part of Ellijay Wine Country’s self-guided trail, House of Applejay is an all-year-round destination — a place to meet, sip, and experience liqueur culture in a way that feels both rooted and refreshingly new,” the Chamber notes.

Read the original Gilmer Chamber article:
https://www.gilmerchamber.com/blog/explore-the-ellijays/winters-coziest-hidden-gem-house-of-applejay-distillery/

### About House of Applejay Distillery:

House of Applejay Distillery is the Southeast’s only distillery dedicated exclusively to crafting all-natural, small-batch liqueurs and fine spirits. Located in East Ellijay, Georgia, the distillery emphasizes real ingredients, pristine Appalachian water, and traditional techniques. Guided tastings, award-winning expressions, and an educational, welcoming atmosphere make House of Applejay a standout destination in Ellijay Wine Country.