Our Story

Every great whiskey has a story, and Irons One is no exception. It’s a story of passion, dedication, and bold decisions—one that begins with Jeff Irons, whose vision turned a dream into reality.

Jeff’s Journey with Whiskey

Jeff Iron’s journey with whiskey began in high school, sipping whiskey neat as he developed an appreciation for its complex flavors. Over the years, his fascination deepened, fueled by encounters with homemade moonshine during his college days in Virginia. Eventually, this passion led him to found Irons One Distillery, crafting small-batch whiskey with an uncompromising commitment to quality. His dedication to every step of the process—from mashing to bottling—set the standard for what Irons One stands for today.

A Legacy Continued: Jim McCarty’s Involvement

When it came time for Jeff to pass the torch, he found the perfect partner in Jim McCarty, a man whose own connection to whiskey is steeped in family history. Jim’s grandfather was a moonshiner in eastern Tennessee during Prohibition, running whiskey along the Mississippi River. While the days of illegal distilling are long gone, the legacy of craftsmanship and resilience remains.

For Jim, the opportunity to take over Irons One was more than just a business venture—it was a chance to honor his family’s heritage while continuing Jeff’s tradition of excellence. Under Jim’s care, Irons One remains committed to small-batch, handcrafted whiskey, staying true to its roots while embracing the future.

Every bottle of Irons One whiskey tells a story—of bold risks, undeniable charm, and dedication to doing things the right way. From Jeff’s original vision to Jim’s family-inspired passion, Irons One is a testament to the spirit of craft whiskey.

We invite you to be part of the story. Whether it’s a pour of our Char Edition or another handcrafted favorite, every sip is a connection to the people and passion behind the bottle.

Cheers to great stories and even better whiskey,
The Irons One Team