Macon & Carson Distillery: The Legacy of Northwest Arkansas Apple Brandy
The small town of Bentonville in Northwest Arkansas is known for its rich history, vibrant community, and of course, its apple brandy. Macon & Carson Apple Brandy was once the largest distillery west of the Mississippi River, producing over 215,000 gallons of apple brandy annually. Here, we dive into the fascinating history and revival of this iconic spirit.
The Early Years
Macon & Carson Apple Brandy was founded by brothers Emery John and Robert Gideon Macon in 1893. Their dream of creating high-quality apple brandy was fueled by the abundance of diverse apple varietals in Benton County, which led to the area being dubbed the “Land of the Big Red Apple.” At its peak, the distillery produced up to 600 gallons of apple brandy per day, making it a significant economic driver for the region[3].
A Legacy (Almost) Lost
Despite its grandeur, the distillery’s success was short-lived. By 1914, only a few counties in Arkansas were still allowing the sale of alcohol, and prohibition swept the state. The WCTU (Woman’s Christian Temperance Union) and activist Carry Nation played key roles in this movement. Macon & Carson was forced to close its doors due to these restrictive laws. The site of the distillery was later sold to produce apple cider vinegar, signaling the end of an era[3].
Revival and Resurrection
Over a century later, a group of passionate enthusiasts in Northwest Arkansas came together to revive the legacy of Macon & Carson Apple Brandy. This initiative was inspired by Robert G. Macon’s dream and his brother’s contributions. The new venture is proud to use regionally sourced apples from the Ozark region, adhering to the traditional recipes and methods of their predecessors[1][3]. Today, RG Macon & Carson offers an 110-proof Ozark Reserve Apple Brandy, which has won a silver award in the Las Vegas Global Spirits Awards.
Modern-Day Distillation
In partnership with Tall Pines Distillery in Noel, Missouri, RG Macon & Carson continues the tradition of producing high-quality apple brandy. The Ozark Reserve Apple Brandy is available exclusively at Tall Pines Distillery. This modern incarnation of Macon & Carson Apple Brandy boasts complex flavors, including floral blossom, pear blossom, and orange zest on the nose, with notes of caramelized apples, brown sugar, and allspice on the palate. It’s a sipper that honors the rich history of Northwest Arkansas and the Macon brothers’ determination.
An Heirloom Revived
Macon and Carson Apple Brandy is more than just a drink; it’s about preserving heritage and embracing tradition. From its inception in the 19th century to its modern-day resurrection, this apple brandy remains deeply rooted in Northwest Arkansas’ identity. Whether you’re a whiskey enthusiast, cocktail aficionado, or simply someone looking to taste a piece of American history, Macon & Carson Apple Brandy offers a journey through time that each sip initiates.
- Historical significance: Founded in 1893 and once the largest distillery west of the Mississippi.
- Resurgence: Revived in 2016 with an aim to bring back the original spirit and recipes.
- Awards: Silver award winner at the Las Vegas Global Spirits Awards.
- Flavors: A complex blend of floral, sweet, and spicy notes.
Appreciate the craftsmanship and legacy of Northwest Arkansas with a dram of Macon & Carson Apple Brandy. For those who enjoy unique spirits or are looking to try an heirloom product, this apple brandy is a must-consider. Its tale of revival stands as a testament to community passion and dedication to preserving local heritage.
