Why We Love Whiskey: A Brief History and McCray’s Selection of Southern Spirits

There’s something about whiskey that just feels right in the South. It’s warm, bold, a little smoky, and somehow, both comforting and refined all at once. At McCray’s Tavern Smyrna, whiskey isn’t just another spirit behind the bar. It’s part of the experience, woven into the menu, the atmosphere, and the conversations you hear between regulars who know their bourbon from their rye.

For those who appreciate a well-poured glass or want to understand what makes whiskey such a beloved Southern tradition, McCray’s is a great place to start, or keep exploring. But before we get into what makes their selection so special, let’s take a moment to understand how this golden-hued spirit made its way into Southern hearts in the first place.

A Sip of History: Whiskey’s Journey South

Whiskey’s roots trace back centuries to Scotland and Ireland, where distillers used barley and peat to create strong, smoky liquors to warm them through cold winters. Immigrants from those regions brought their knowledge to America, and when they settled in the Appalachian regions of Kentucky, Tennessee, and Virginia, they adapted their methods to the crops they had on hand, primarily corn.

That shift gave birth to what we now call bourbon, a whiskey made primarily from corn and aged in new charred oak barrels. Over time, Southern distillers built not only local businesses but a cultural movement. Bourbon became known for its deep sweetness, smooth finish, and the richness that comes from years spent aging in oak.

Meanwhile, rye whiskey, spicier, drier, and once more popular in the Northeast, found a resurgence among craft distillers down South. Today, both bourbon and rye are key players in any serious whiskey program, and McCray’s Tavern is no exception.

McCray’s: A Whiskey Lover’s Hideout

Tucked into the heart of Smyrna historic square, McCray’s feels like it was made for sipping whiskey. The brick walls, warm wood interiors, and buzzing neighborhood energy give it a timeless vibe. Whether you’re tucked into a booth on a quiet evening or pulling up a barstool on game night, you’ll find a menu and the staff that makes whiskey approachable no matter your experience level.

At McCray’s, the whiskey selection is thoughtful but unpretentious. You won’t need to flash a collector’s card or speak in tasting notes to get something fantastic poured in your glass.

Southern Spirits, Curated with Care

The bar carries a range of Southern whiskeys, from well-known favorites like Buffalo Trace, Maker’s Mark, and Four Roses to more boutique bottles like Angel’s Envy, WhistlePig, and Woodford Reserve Double Oaked. If you’re lucky, you might catch a limited-time barrel pick or a rare bottle release.

Not sure what to try? The bartenders are friendly, never pushy, and genuinely enjoy guiding people through a flight. Whether you’re new to whiskey or ready to deep-dive into single-barrel selections, there’s room at the bar for your taste buds to roam.

And if you prefer your whiskey in cocktail form? McCray’s has you covered. Try a barrel-aged Old Fashioned, a house-crafted Whiskey Smash, or one of their rotating seasonal bourbon drinks. The mixology program plays well with the classics but isn’t afraid to shake things up (pun intended).

Whiskey Meets Food

One of the best things about whiskey is how well it plays with food, and McCray’s Tavern Smyrna menu makes the most of it. Rich, savory dishes like the prime steak frites, smoked wings, and short rib grilled cheese are a perfect match for bourbon’s sweetness and depth.

Even the Southern-fried classics on the menu, like chicken and waffles or shrimp & grits, pair beautifully with a glass of rye or a smoky bourbon-forward cocktail. It’s not about being fancy, it’s about flavor.

If you’re not sure what pairs best with what, just ask. The staff can recommend pairings that go beyond the obvious and help you discover your next favorite combo.

Why It Matters

In a time where cocktail trends shift weekly and menus can sometimes feel like a guessing game, McCray’s does something special: it keeps things simple, grounded, and full of Southern character. Their whiskey program doesn’t just serve drinks, it tells a story. One rooted in craft, in community, and in a love for the kind of spirit that brings people together.

Whether you’re a seasoned bourbon fan or just curious about the hype, McCray’s Smyrna is a great place to sip slowly, eat well, and enjoy a little Southern tradition poured neat.