PARTY IN THE FRONT.
BUSINESS IN THE BACK.
The Distillery
Home of the world’s first Sweet Tea Vodka, Firefly continues to make great spirits. From our popular original vodkas to our maritime influenced bourbon, and lineup of 11 moonshine flavors, Firefly has grown to include more than 30 innovative spirits.
WE’RE ONE BIG SOUTHERN FAMILY
A genuine mix of scientists, craftsmen, entrepreneurs, comedians, and cooks, we’ve captured lightning (bugs) in a jar, and just like to have a real good time.
How it Began
It’s a story that started off like any other. Two people (Jim and Scott) met through work (the wine business), became friends, and then came up with a crazy idea to go into business together, but not the wine business, their idea was a bit more spirited. And so, Firefly was born. Along with Jim’s wife Ann and Scott’s wife Trisha, the couples became pioneers for South Carolina distilling, working tirelessly on legislation to make it affordable to distill, sample and purchase bottled spirits at a distillery in South Carolina. The Distillery truly is a family affair with Ann’s son, Jay Macmurphy, leading the charge forward as head distiller. Jay is full of ideas, so keep an eye on him – he’s always cooking up something new in the still.
Meet the Makers
Jim Irvin
Firefly Distillery Co-Founder/Owner
As part-scientist, part-renaissance man, and “mastermind of Firefly distillations” Jim is in charge of what goes into the bottle. As he explains it, “I like to experiment in the Distillery lab using natural ingredients, figure out what tastes the best and then bottle it for our fans.”
Jim is a Vanderbilt University Chemistry and Biology graduate and he is always mixing up something good. Whether it’s a southern spirit or a Lowcountry libation, Jim loves to pour tasting samples for visitors in the Distillery Tasting Room.
Jim is a “Firefly Island” kind of guy with a southern gentleman charm. Friends describe him as always busy, yet laid back – he drinks his Firefly Moonshine “out of the jar.” Jim says, “We couldn’t be more pleased with the compliments we get. Y’all keep drinking it, and we’ll keep making it!”
Scott Newitt
Firefly Distillery Co-Founder/Owner
With roots in the wine industry, including a tenure at Gallo Winery in sales and marketing, Scott’s passion took a new turn in 2005 when he joined forces with Jim Irvin, co-owner and the very maker of the wine Scott once sold. Together, they embarked on an adventure in distillation that would change the spirits landscape forever.
Beyond spirits, music is a constant muse for Scott. From his early days playing in bands across the southeast, to the present where Firefly is not only a working distillery, but a major concert venue for national touring acts and legendary live performances, music also influences tasting notes for the Live Bourbon collection, with each barrel meticulously selected.
When he’s not tasting blends, hosting distillery tours, or tapping away on drums, Scott enjoys the outdoors and family time with his wife Trisha and their children, Drew, Patsy, and Peter. His favorite distillery spirit, Bend and Steal American Whiskey, epitomizes his entrepreneurial spirit, ensuring that hard working folks everywhere can savor the dedication and innovation behind his craft.
Jay Macmurphy
Head Distiller
Jay Macmurphy, Firefly’s seasoned head distiller, brings his extensive experience and technical expertise to Tom & Huck Distillers. Raised in Charleston with a passion for creating, Jay’s journey embodies resilience and innovation.
While building wooden boats on Shem Creek, Jay also worked in the family business for Irvin House Vineyards on Wadmalaw Island as a vintner. With an innate knack for blending and tasting, Jay fully immersed himself into the world of spirits and distillation.
As Firefly Distillery’s General Manager and head distiller, Jay oversees every aspect of the distillery, from personally transporting each individual barrel from the original distillery on Wadmalaw Island, in his truck, to crafting spirits and dreaming up new creations.
Jay’s discerning palate guides the selection of each distinctive Live Single Barrel Bourbon. Whether it’s oak, spice, or sweet, nutty notes, he enjoys discovering the unique variety of flavors that may be found in any given batch.
He also appreciates the craftsmanship and consistency of Bend & Steal American Whiskey, ensuring a consistent and exceptional tasting experience. “It’s a great whiskey and you always know exactly what you’re going to get,” Jay says.
Jay enjoys spending time outdoors on the water his wife Kimberly and their five children, surf foiling, and participating in offshore fishing competitions.
Riley Macmurphy
Head Blender and Purchaser
With familial legacy at its core, Jay Macmurphy’s eldest daughter, Riley, follows in her family’s footsteps, working alongside her father as she takes on the role as head blender for Firefly Distillery and Tom & Huck Distillers. This continues the tradition established by her father Jay and grandfather Jim Irvin, co-founder and the original scientist who developed Firefly Distillery’s signature spirits.
Honing the family craft, Riley Macmurphy becomes the third generation to uphold and enrich their distinguished legacy in the world of distilled spirits.
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