Philip Mestayer, Stephen Mestayer and Jeep Mestayer pose with the recently released T-Moon by Distillerie Acadian.

A family owned local business has brought the art of distilling liquor to the Teche Area, and became a national success in the process.

Distillerie Acadian is a family-owned distillery making the finest small batch liquors, bourbon and whiskey in Louisiana. The company describes itself as steeped in a tradition of God, family, friends, hard work and integrity, and co-owner Philip Mestayer said the business had been a long time coming for the family. Father Stephen Mestayer and sons Philip and Jeep operate the distillery.

How did the concept of Distillerie come about?

Being that there are not many whiskey and bourbon distilleries in Louisiana, the family became very interested in the idea that we could make and sell our own quality product.

When did the family start the distillery, and why?

While the permitting process through the federal and state government started, the family researched the mashing and distillation process and began building the fermentation and distillation equipment. The family began distilling product to be aged over the next few years once the permits were received in 2016. The family always envisioned the journey as a way to bring the family closer together and only producing products that they felt were of the finest quality.

When did it open?

The family discussed opening a distillery for years but it wasn’t until 2016 that the distillery officially opened.

What’s been the local response to a brewery coming to the area?

The local support has always been very strong. The community has given us exceptional support and encouragement, and continues to elevate the distillery’s expectations.

What are you most excited for people to see/taste at Distillerie?

At Distillerie Acadian, we currently make two products: T-Moon and Cajun’s Cut. T-Moon hit the stores in late February and the customer responses have far exceeded the distillery’s hopes. T-Moon is known as an aged spirit. While it uses a grain mash to make the alcohol, the distillery also incorporates Louisiana Cane Sugar to the mash to produce a unique flavor profile that is unmatched by any other. At 80 proof, the spirit, which is aged with charred American white oak, delivers a smoothness that anyone can enjoy.

The other product that the distillery produces is Cajuns Cut – Louisiana Straight Bourbon Whiskey. The bourbon is made with a four-grain mash of corn, rye, wheat and barley malt which is distilled and then aged in brand new white American oak barrels. Cajun’s Cut is 94 proof and set to hit the shelves at the beginning of July.

It is difficult to suggest to a customer one product over the other, as they both deliver such a uniquely different flavor-packed experience, and each person has their own personal taste preferences. We can only suggest that you try them both.