NEW: A look at Mobile’s first-ever distillery, Deerfish

Locally sourced and craft-distilled liquors are coming to Mobile.

The first-ever distillery in the Port City is set to open in 2025. It’s called Deerfish Distilling Co and we sat down with co-owner Ashley Halford to talk moving to Mobile, perfecting the craft and how to make the perfect distillery.

“The opportunity of a lifetime for us”

Austin Halford was born and raised in Mobile. He moved up to Montana in 2017, where he met his wife Ashley at, of all places, a distillery.

Their love for one another, and distilling quality liquors, brought them to the Pacific Northwest, where they perfected their craft.

Eventually, Austin wanted to move closer to family. Around that time, the Halfords wanted to start their own distillery—something Mobile has been lacking.

“Getting to move home and be the first craft distillers in Mobile? That’s the opportunity of a lifetime for us.”

Ashley Halford, Deerfish Distilling Co.

The Halfords utilize locally grown grain and grapes to keep the “craft” in craft distilling.

“Using as many local raw materials as possible results in a product we can all be proud of here in Mobile.”

Ashley Halford, Deerfish Distilling Co.

The best part? While the whiskey ages, they have some other drinks ready to drop ASAP.

“We are going to release a line of vodka-based seltzers using natural flavors that really speak to the south. We’d like to do a line of seasonal craft cocktails as well where we can utilize local produce to do special small-batch releases. A gin line will also likely be in the works, where we can source local botanicals to further highlight Mobile.”

Ashley Halford, Deerfish Distilling Co.

Coming 2025

Deerfish Distilling Co. secured an adorable space on Government Street. It’s the former home of Lush Home Decor, which moved into a higher-profile location on Dauphin Street.

“Not only is it in a prime location, but the building itself is just, for lack of better words, cool. The glass roll up doors will showcase our distillery operations and be visible to those walking or driving by. The storefront side is perfect for a start up retail and tasting area – we’re looking forward to utilizing local catering and food trucks to provide a variety of food pairings for our spirit tastings. I think my favorite part is the exposed brick area that will ultimately become our rack house for barreled spirits.”

It’s still a work in progress right now, but the Halfords have plans to open in the new year. In the meantime, keep up with them on Facebook.

Are you excited for Mobile’s first craft distillery? Let us know on Facebook, Instagram or LinkedIn.