Deadwood has a long history, with gold miners, outlaws, and stories from every corner. If you’re visiting and want to get a feel for the local culture, stop by Full Throttle Distillery. Here, moonshine isn’t just something you drink; it’s part of how this town grew up.
What Is Moonshine?
Moonshine is often misunderstood. It’s a corn-based spirit that was once made in secret, but today it’s crafted legally and more cleanly. At Full Throttle, we stick to small-batch production using copper stills. The result is straightforward and consistent.
Our recipes go back to early distilling methods from the Appalachian region. That approach is what gives each bottle its character.
Who Makes It?
Dr. Paul Higgs leads our distilling. With a background in chemistry, he pays attention to the details. The grain, the process, the aging, he oversees it all. We don’t mass-produce, and nothing gets bottled without being checked.
Full Throttle has a different feel from most tasting rooms. The setting comes from our founder, Michael Ballard’s, background in biker culture. It’s open to anyone who wants to stop in for a pour, a bottle, or a casual visit.
Hosting a Group or Event?
If you’re planning a birthday, team gathering, or casual meet-up, we have space for it. We offer:
- Tasting sessions
- Event rentals with food options
- Group packages
Call ahead, and we’ll walk you through options. Contact us here.
Not Sure What to Try?
Here’s a basic starting list:
- Corn Moonshine – Traditional and strong
- Apple Pie Shine – Slightly sweet
Our staff can help if you don’t know what fits your taste.
It’s easy to end up in a chain bar that doesn’t show you much of the local side of Deadwood. People often miss the smaller, more personal places like Full Throttle. That’s where they find more of the town’s actual character.
Smaller distilleries are becoming more popular. People want something made with purpose, not mass-produced. We’re keeping with that trend by using classic techniques while testing new flavors in limited releases.
Plan Your Visit
We’re located at 645 Main St #2 in Deadwood. No reservation needed. Stop in any day of the week, or call ahead for groups.
Stop by for a tasting
Call to schedule a group visit to +1 605-920-8240
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FAQ: Visiting Full Throttle Distillery in Deadwood, SD
Can I see how the spirits are made?
We don’t offer full tours, but we’re happy to explain the process during your visit.
Is food available at this location?
Yes! Grab a seat, check our menu or ask our team what they can recommend based on your taste.
Are kids allowed inside?
Yes. Guests under 21 can enter with a parent or guardian, but cannot take part in tastings or purchases.
Do you ship your products?
We don’t ship directly from the Deadwood distillery.
