Virgil Kaine Whiskey Partners with Cannon Distillery, Opens New Charleston Event Space

Virgil Kaine, a Lowcountry Whiskey Company has partnered with Cannon Distillery in a move that reunites the whiskey brand with its Charleston roots.
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Two Charleston-area spirits makers are joining forces in a strategic partnership that brings a major new events and production facility to James Island. Virgil Kaine, a Lowcountry Whiskey Company has partnered with Cannon Distillery in a move that reunites the whiskey brand with its Charleston roots. The collaboration includes a new 14,000-square-foot facility featuring a dedicated event space, tasting room, and retail shop.

Additionally, The Cannon Collective portfolio will now include all Cannon and Virgil Kaine products, allowing both companies to expand their reach in Georgian and South Carolinian markets. 

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Virgil Kaine & Cannon Distillery

Both companies bring significant culinary expertise to the partnership. Virgil Kaine, founded in 2011 by Charleston chefs Szlam and Ryan Meany, has released eight limited-edition whiskeys since its inception.

Cannon Distillery founder Kris Kincaid established his Avondale-based operation in 2017, focusing on craft cocktail-friendly spirits under Master Distiller Roderick Hale Waver.

“What I love about this partnership is that it enables us to really focus on what we do best — use our culinary know-how to create unique, flavorful, high-quality spirits, and ultimately enhance the customer experience,” said Kincaid. “Both of our teams have cut our teeth in the Charleston hospitality scene and navigated the distribution school of hard knocks. Those experiences are invaluable to our partnership. But we aren’t hardcore accountants or hospitality executives focused solely on the bottom line. We are bringing a new perspective to the game, and I think we are creating something incredibly special that customers will love.”

New Facility Expands Offerings

The new Cannon Distillery James Island location at 1734 Signal Point Road features The Rickhouse, a 7,500-square-foot event space, alongside full catering services and a retail shop offering products from both distilleries, plus Nippitaty Gin.

“This is an exciting time because we are going back to our roots,” said Virgil Kaine Founder David Szlam. “Not only does Virgil Kaine now have a home in Charleston where our passionate supporters can come visit us, but having a distillery so close will enable us to be more hands-on with the product.

“This partnership deepens the bond among passionate and enthusiastic entrepreneurs who share common values and aspirations. We have built something unique and exciting, and I can’t wait to see what we accomplish together.”

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