NOLA Distillery Tour

10/26/24 just had the best experience with Allison at NOLA Distillery. Had a great tasting and tour. Highly recommend a stop. She gave us great info on local restaurants as well. Oh, and the tastings and drinks were amazing. A must stop!

Allison was super friendly and helpful. We had a great experience and tour of the distillery! Would definitely recommend!!

Today, I led a group to a local distillery as part of our Second Line Music Experience. The goal was simple: to support local businesses and promote the vibrant culture of New Orleans, especially since the Second Line parade was set to start right next door. What should have been an enriching and enjoyable experience quickly took a shocking and unacceptable turn when the manager of the distillery displayed blatant racism and rudeness in front of my group. As soon as we arrived, we were greeted with hostility. The manager immediately questioned why we hadn’t called ahead, insisting that we needed permission to gather there, despite the fact that the Second Line was already scheduled to take place on that street. Vendors were set up, and people were already gathering outside in anticipation. Her comments made no sense in the context of what was happening around us. It was clear to me that her objections weren’t rooted in logistics or any legitimate concerns about the event. Instead, her behavior felt personal—an unnecessary display of nastiness meant to make us feel unwelcome. The way she treated us in front of my guests was shocking, and it was clear that racism was at the root of her attitude. What makes the situation even more frustrating is that the bartender on duty was nothing but kind and accommodating. They understood the nature of the event and were happy to have us there, treating us with the respect and hospitality that you’d expect from a local establishment. Yet the manager’s behavior overshadowed what could have been a positive interaction for everyone involved. Her blatant disrespect and hostility turned what should have been a celebration of New Orleans culture into a situation where my group—and I as a local—felt disrespected and marginalized. As someone who has been a part of the New Orleans community my entire life, I make it a priority to uplift and promote local businesses. This city is built on the strength of its people and its unique cultural heritage. However, to be treated in such a demeaning and racist way in my own neighborhood is deeply upsetting and unacceptable. No one—especially not in a city as diverse as New Orleans—should have to encounter such behavior while simply trying to patronize a local business. It’s important to understand that racism and rudeness like this don’t just harm the individuals being disrespected—they harm the business itself. We came to support their cash bar, to bring more exposure to their establishment, and to celebrate the culture of our city. Instead, we were met with hostility and blatant racism. I can’t help but wonder how many other people have experienced similar treatment and how much damage it must be doing to their business in the long run. I strongly encourage anyone considering a visit to this distillery to avoid it until they address this issue and take responsibility for the unacceptable actions of their management. Racism has no place in our society, and it certainly shouldn’t be tolerated in a city as diverse and culturally rich as New Orleans. Our city thrives on its inclusivity and the pride we have in our diverse community. Until this business reflects those values, I cannot recommend it to anyone. Choose to support establishments that embody the true spirit of New Orleans—welcoming, inclusive, and proud of the unique and diverse culture we’ve built.