Craft Breweries, Distilleries, and Wineries That Put Mississippi on the Map
Nestled in the heart of Jackson, the capital city about 150 miles north of the Gulf Coast, Pig & Pint Brewery offers a vibrant entry point into Mississippi’s craft beer scene. This brewery combines Southern hospitality with a passion for creative brews, specializing in robust stouts and hop-forward IPAs. Visitors can enjoy their spacious taproom, which features a rotating lineup of seasonal beers alongside fan favorites like their peanut butter porter. The brewery’s location near downtown Jackson also makes it an ideal stop after exploring the Mississippi Museum of Art or the historic Fondren District. Evenings here are lively and welcoming, especially on weekends when local musicians add a soundtrack to the flavorful experience.
Heading east from Jackson toward Meridian, about a two-hour drive, you’ll find the charming city of Meridian, home to the 100 Men Hall Distillery. This boutique distillery draws on Mississippi’s deep traditions in moonshining and Southern spirits, crafting small-batch whiskey and rum with uniquely local character. The tasting room sits within a beautifully restored historic building in downtown Meridian’s revitalized district, connecting visitors to a bygone era of Southern distilling. Their signature small-batch bourbon, aged in oak barrels, reveals hints of pecan and caramel, flavors rooted in the region’s agricultural bounty. A guided tour here offers not only samples but stories that bring Mississippi’s spirited heritage to life.
On the western edge of the state near Natchez, about 90 miles south of Jackson, Natchez Brewing Company stands out with its commitment to blending local flavors and culture into their brews. The taproom overlooks the Mississippi River, providing a stunning backdrop that complements their lineup of craft beers named after Mississippi landmarks and legends. Sampling their “Bluff Wheat” while gazing across the mighty river is a quintessential experience for visitors who want a taste of the South with a view. The brewery’s riverside patio becomes especially magical during spring and fall when the weather is mild, and the sunsets over the water paint the sky in warm hues.
In the small town of Hernando, just 30 minutes north of Memphis, Mississippi, you’ll find the rustic yet sophisticated environment of Shell Landing Vineyards. This boutique winery, set in the rolling hills of DeSoto County, takes advantage of the area’s unique terroir to produce surprisingly robust wines in a state not traditionally known for viticulture. Visitors can stroll through vineyards framed by lush greenery, then sample their signature muscadine and Norton varietals in a cozy tasting room. The vineyards come alive in late summer during harvest season, when the grapevines are heavy and ripe, making it the ideal time for a visit that combines scenic tranquility with a nuanced wine experience.
Back down in Hattiesburg, about 90 miles south of Jackson, Southern Prohibition Brewing has made a name for itself by pushing the boundaries of craft brewing in Mississippi. Their barrel-aged sour beers and inventive IPAs are a draw for enthusiasts willing to explore bold flavors. The brewery’s taproom, located near the University of Southern Mississippi, features a communal vibe where locals and visitors gather to share stories and discover Mississippi’s evolving beer culture. The brewery is also known for its seasonal events that make spring and fall particularly exciting times to visit, when the tap list bursts with fresh, experimental batches that showcase local ingredients.
Traveling south toward the Mississippi Gulf Coast, the town of Ocean Springs, just minutes from Biloxi, hosts the charming and historic Seaman’s Hill Winery. This winery prides itself on crafting locally inspired wines and ciders that reflect the Gulf Coast’s subtropical climate. The tasting room, housed in a renovated bungalow near the water, provides a cozy setting to try their signature blackberry and fig wines, fruits harvested from nearby orchards. Ocean Springs’ vibrant arts scene pairs well with a leisurely wine tasting, especially during the cooler months from late fall through early spring when the Gulf breezes make outdoor seating particularly pleasant.
Finally, for an immersive distillery experience near the Mississippi Delta, head to Clarksdale, approximately 75 miles north of Jackson. Cathead Distillery occupies a historic cottonseed oil mill and infuses its spirits with the spirit of the blues, a genre born in the very soil of the Delta. The distillery’s standout is its cat-themed vodka, crafted with a smoothness that belies its potent kick. Visitors can tour the facility and explore exhibits that link the distilling process with the region’s rich musical heritage. The best time to visit is during the winter months, when Clarksdale hosts its famous blues festivals, allowing travelers to pair great music with local flavors in one unforgettable trip.
Each of these destinations brings a distinct slice of Mississippi’s burgeoning craft beverage culture to life. From riverfront breweries and hilltop vineyards to historic distilleries honoring the past while innovating for the future, the state offers a flavorful journey for anyone eager to sip their way through Southern tradition and contemporary creativity. Whether you’re a seasoned connoisseur or simply curious, Mississippi’s craft breweries, wineries, and distilleries invite you to savor its unique tastes and stories in places that feel like home.