American MadE

bourbon & Spirits

where we meet in the middle  

 Mean Spirits Distillery

   Mean Spirits Distillery

our mission

Our Mission is to Craft Exceptional Distilled Spirits that Awaken the Senses, Elevate Every Occasion, and Honor the Art of True Craftsmanship.

From Bold Bourbon and Smooth American Single Malt to Spicy Rye, Crisp Vodka, and Refreshing Gin, Every Bottle is Crafted with Dedication and Skill.

who we are

owners

Lou Shepard and Dave Hall, Co-owners of Mean Spirits Distillery in Norfolk, Virginia, Share More Than a Business—They Share 56 Years of Combined Service in the U.S. Navy, Where they Operated at the Highest Level of Naval Special Warfare.

That Same Operational Excellence and Experience Drives Everything They Do at Mean Spirits Distillery.   

Our Story

Craft, Service, and Soul

View Our Shop

Every Bottle Begins Long Before the Label. We Select Grains, Ferment Slowly, Distill with Precision, and Mature in Carefully Chosen Barrels Shaped by Norfolk’s Climate.

Each Cask is Tasted, Blended for Balance, Proofed with Patience, and Bottled On-site—Disciplined Craftsmanship You Can Taste in Every Pour.

What’s Pouring Next

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We’re building immersive tasting rooms, guided distillery tours, and a calendar of signature events—plus special bottles and limited collaboration releases crafted with partners we admire. Join the list to be notified the moment dates are announced, reservations open, pre-sale tickets go live, and exclusive releases drop. You’ll also receive progress updates, behind-the-scenes looks, and early access to limited experiences as we bring these offerings to life.

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our philosophy 

family, friends & community

Our vision

Mean Spirits Distillery was Founded on the Belief That Premium Spirits Bring People Together.

When a Population Comes Together, That Central Point is the MEAN.

We Celebrate What Unites Us Through Every Bottle We Produce.

May 13, 2025

Navy SEAL Foundation

May 13, 2025

A story lived in sips

May 13, 2025

Barrique: synonymous with excellence

Service Beyond the Bottle