From Orchard to Glass: The First Three Spirits That Defined Flag Hill

Spirit of the Season: Our Apple-Distilled Originals

There’s something special about fall in New Hampshire — the way the air sharpens, the hillsides glow with color, and the orchards come alive with the scent of ripe apples. Long before Flag Hill became known for its whiskeys, our story began right there — in the orchard. Our first three spirits were born from local apples, distilled here in Lee, New Hampshire, and crafted to honor the people and places that define our state.

Rooted in the Orchard

Each year, we work with Apple Hill Farm in Concord, where crisp, flavorful apples have been grown for decades by Chuck and Diane Souther. Those apples form the base for our distillations — a clean, vibrant apple spirit that became the foundation for three distinct expressions. Our grapes were too important for our wine so we looked to apples as a local and available source for fermentation. They have defined the roots of our distillery for over twenty years.

General John Stark Vodka

Named for New Hampshire’s Revolutionary War hero and author of the state motto, “Live Free or Die,” General John Stark Vodka embodies a bold, independent spirit. Distilled entirely from apples, it’s remarkably smooth with a particular buttery softness from the apples — a true reflection of its orchard roots. Enjoy it simply: stirred with ice for a crisp martini, or in an apple cider mule that feels just right as the weather turns cold.

Karner Blue Gin

The Karner Blue, New Hampshire's state butterfly, is the inspiration from our original gin. Crafted with our apple-based spirit and infused with a thoughtful blend

of botanicals, Karner Blue Gin offers bright citrus, round herbal notes, and a gentle juniper balance. It’s a gin with a sense of place — perfect in a fall negroni or paired with tonic and a twist of orange for a refreshing echo of summer amid the changing leaves.

Josiah Bartlett Apple Brandy

Our Josiah Bartlett Apple Brandy honors New Hampshire’s first governor — a man known for wisdom and warmth, much like this spirit. Aged patiently in toasted oak barrels, it captures the essence of baked apples, spice, and a hint of caramel. Sip it neat by the fire, mix it into a brandy old fashioned, or serve it alongside Thanksgiving pie for a pairing that celebrates New England tradition in every sip.

A Taste of New Hampshire Heritage

These three spirits are more than just the first pages in Flag Hill Distillery story — they’re a reminder of where we began and what continues to inspire us as we grow and change for the future. Dinking one of our products, you aren't simply pouring another bottle from the shelf, you are engaged with the story and history of New Hampshire