Some of the best ideas are born far from boardrooms. They come to life through friendship, curiosity and a willingness to try something new. That is exactly how BottomsUp Distillery began, rooted right here in South Carolina with a story that feels as genuine as the spirit they create.
For Trae Carson, the journey started alongside his dad, George. What began as a fun side project making moonshine quickly turned into something more. There were plenty of trial-and-error moments, a mix of success and failure, but each step fueled a growing passion. Carson had a clear vision. He wanted to create something so smooth and enjoyable that even friends who typically avoided liquor would come back for another sip.
That vision found its personality in Charleston. Sitting by a pool, the name “BottomsUp” was born, inspired by the playful image of a duck diving beneath the water. It was lighthearted, memorable and perfectly captured the tone they were after. Something proudly Southern, yet fun and approachable, the kind of brand that invites people to relax and enjoy the moment.
As the idea gained momentum, Carson knew he needed the right people by his side. Enter Timothy Martin, a close friend from his time in the National Guard. As the two prepared to transition out of military life, they began talking about what came next. Martin had seen Carson’s earlier work and did not hesitate. He called Carson the very next day, ready to jump in and help bring the vision to life. It was a partnership built on trust, shared goals and a deep belief in what they were creating together.
From there, the process became intentional. They spent two full years developing their label in Columbia, carefully crafting every detail until it felt exactly right. Nothing was rushed. Every element, from the design to the messaging, was created to reflect their story and values.
A turning point came when Carson walked into Hollow Creek Distillery in Lexington and asked for a few minutes of time with Craig, an experienced distiller. What was supposed to be a brief 5-minute conversation quickly turned into something much more. Forty-five minutes later, plans were forming for the future. Craig agreed to contract distill their product, but with one important challenge. They needed to find distribution.
So, they got to work.
Then came the call that changed everything. One of the largest distributors in the country reached out and pointed them in the right direction. One connection led to another, and before long, BottomsUp Distillery found itself partnered with the Molson Coors Beverage Company. It was a moment that validated years of patience, persistence and belief.
Their flagship vodka reflects that journey. Handcrafted in small batches and distilled ten times from Carolina corn. It delivers a clean, smooth taste that stands on its own or elevates any cocktail. It is approachable, refined, and undeniably memorable.
I had the chance to experience it firsthand at a pairing dinner hosted at Prime Steakhouse in Aiken, and it left a lasting impression. Each course was thoughtfully paired, each cocktail carefully crafted, and every sip told the story of the people behind it.
BottomsUp Distillery is more than a brand. It is a reminder that great things take time, that friendships matter and that sometimes the best ideas start with a simple moment and grow into something worth raising a glass to.
BottomsUP Distillery can be reached at 803-957-7999 or via email at trae@bottomsupspirits.net.
“I wanted to create a drink so smooth even my friends that don’t drink would want to.”