After studying Sustainable Agriculture, William went on to work as a small batch cheese maker for several years at a local creamery before teaming up with his mentor, retired Scottish master distiller Edwin Dodson, to start Oak and Grist Distilling Company. As buncombe county’s only 100% grain to glass distillery, William and Oak and Grist strive to create regionally inspired spirits by starting with locally sourced grains and botanicals. Since opening in 2017, Oak and Grist has crafted award-winning gin and whiskey that foster a stronger connection between farmer, producer, consumer and place. With an eye on civic responsibility and involvement, each product that comes out of the distillery, directly benefits a local non-profit with every bottle purchase.