Who started Chattanooga Whiskey?

Answered by Willie Powers

Chattanooga Whiskey was founded by Tim Piersant and Joe Ledbetter. These two individuals are the driving force behind the success of Chattanooga Whiskey Company, which is based in Chattanooga, Tennessee, USA.

Tim Piersant and Joe Ledbetter had a vision to bring back the historic tradition of whiskey-making in Chattanooga. They recognized the rich whiskey heritage of the city, which was once known as the “Whiskey Capital of the World” before Prohibition shut down all legal distilleries in the area. Inspired by this history, they set out to revitalize the whiskey industry in Chattanooga.

In 2011, Piersant and Ledbetter launched a grassroots campaign called the “Vote Whiskey” movement. They fought to change the outdated laws that prohibited the production of whiskey within the city limits of Chattanooga. Their efforts paid off when the laws were changed in 2013, paving the way for the establishment of their own distillery.

With the legal barriers removed, Piersant and Ledbetter wasted no time in turning their dream into a reality. They began the construction of their distillery in 2014 and after three years of hard work and dedication, the Chattanooga Whiskey Company opened its doors in 2017.

Since then, Chattanooga Whiskey has become one of the largest craft whiskey producers in the state of Tennessee. They have gained a reputation for their commitment to quality and their passion for preserving the heritage of whiskey-making in Chattanooga.

Piersant and Ledbetter’s entrepreneurial spirit and determination have not only brought Chattanooga Whiskey to life but have also contributed to the revitalization of the local economy. Their distillery has become a popular tourist attraction, drawing visitors from near and far to experience the unique taste of Chattanooga Whiskey.

Tim Piersant and Joe Ledbetter are the founders of Chattanooga Whiskey. Their vision, perseverance, and passion for whiskey-making have made Chattanooga Whiskey Company a prominent player in the craft whiskey industry, and their dedication to preserving the whiskey heritage of Chattanooga is commendable.