Charlotte, NC – July 31, 2025 – 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 steady 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, with truly developed character and a richer taste.

A multi-generational, family-owned distributor founded in 1953, Johnson Brothers has a longstanding reputation for excellence in the beverage industry. With operations in 17 states and a team of over 4,000, Johnson Brothers is committed to its founding values of work ethic, passion, innovation, teamwork, excellence and integrity. The company’s extensive network and dedication to quality service make it an ideal partner for Oaklore’s expansion plans.

“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 – NC 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, unwavering 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 their Story Series limited-edition whiskey releases, along with vodka, gin and rum – all crafted with meticulous attention to detail. 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 www.oakloredistilling.com. In addition, the full portfolio of products can be found at the company’s distillery in Matthews, NC.

Follow Oaklore Distilling Co. on Instagram and Facebook. To learn more, visit www.oakloredistilling.com.
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ABOUT OAKLORE DISTILLING CO.
Built on the idea of community, Oaklore Distilling Co. in Charlotte, NC celebrates great spirits and the stories that come along with them. Born of friendship and passion in 2017 Matt Simpkins, Thomas Bogan, and Travis Masters have spent years learning the art of distilling and crafting Oaklore’s signature line of spirits. Oaklore spirits – 100 percent Carolina crafted – are created with dedication to the process, ingredients, quality and presentation. Oaklore Distilling Co. was named No.1 distillery by the Charlotte Observer’s Best in 2023 and 2024. For more information, visit www.oakloredistilling.com.

ABOUT JOHNSON BROTHERS
Johnson Brothers is a leading wine, spirits, and beer distributor in the United States. Founded in 1953 by Lynn Johnson, the company remains family-owned and operates in 17 states with a team of over 4,000. Committed to its founding values of work ethic, passion, innovation, teamwork, excellence, and integrity, Johnson Brothers partners with top-tier suppliers globally to offer an exceptional portfolio of world-class brands to its customers.