About Us
A Legacy of Craftsmanship
and Community
Hancock County, and especially Kiln, MS, has long been a hotbed of whiskey production. Father and son duo, James and Matt Crittenden, decided it was time to set up their own still in Kiln, MS. Inspired by the romance of making whiskey—and well aware of the heartbreak of doing so without a license—Matt leveraged his legal background to make it official.
After a year of navigating paperwork and processes, the Crittendens became legal whiskey producers. With a commitment to quality, they chose American-made equipment, including fermenters custom-built in Kiln. The installation process was a labor of love, accomplished with the help of family and friends.




Our Process, Perfected
At Cut Above Whiskey, we don’t take shortcuts. Starting production in 2017, we’ve maintained a meticulous process:
- Using whole grains and cold deep well water.
- Mashing, fermenting, distilling, aging, and bottling—all on-site.
- Sourcing fresh Mississippi grains, ground daily for optimal flavor.
- Aging in 53-gallon charred American white oak barrels, letting nature do the work.
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Experience Cut Above Whiskey
Discover the essence of Kiln, Mississippi, in every sip of Cut Above Whiskey. Rooted in tradition and crafted with care, our whiskey is made from locally sourced grains and aged to perfection. From our iconic Kiln Shine to our daily-barreled rye and bourbon, every bottle tells a story of passion and quality.
Visit our facility to witness the magic of whiskey-making—from grain to bottle—under one roof. Explore our rich heritage, dedication to craftsmanship, and the true taste of Mississippi.

Contact
-
19193 Highway 43
Kiln, Mississippi 39556 - (228) 255-2058
- info@cutabovewhiskey.com
Useful Links
- Copyright 2025 Crittenden Cut Above