A South Carolina craft distillery known for its unconventional name and small-batch spirits has closed its doors after filing for bankruptcy earlier this month. The beloved business had a rocky start opening its doors in the height of the COVID pandemic, and was only open for six years prior to the bankruptcy filing.
Distillery founded as a retirement venture
Rotten Little Bastard Distillery was founded by Brian and Brigid Fackrell, who launched the business as a retirement project after relocating to Beaufort, South Carolina. The couple spent several years learning the distilling trade and developing the concept before opening the facility to the public.
The distillery officially opened in August 2020 in a former Kmart building on Boundary Street, at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Rotten Little Bastard produced a variety of handcrafted spirits, including vodka, gin, rum, moonshine, and bourbon-style whiskey. The company also hosted tasting tours, classes, and private events at its Beaufort tasting room, helping it build a loyal local following.Â
The distillery’s unusual name came from a childhood nickname given to co-founder Brian Fackrell by his mother.
Chapter 7 bankruptcy filed in March
RLB Distillery Company Inc., which operates as Rotten Little Bastard Distillery, filed for Chapter 7 bankruptcy on March 10, 2026, in the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the District of South Carolina. A Chapter 7 filing means the business will be liquidated and a court-appointed trustee will oversee the sale of its assets to repay creditors.
According to court documents, the company reported roughly $152,000 in total assets and about $395,000 in liabilities. Assets included approximately $80,000 in inventory and more than $66,000 in machinery and equipment.
The distillery generated about $278,000 in revenue in 2024 and $221,660 in 2025, according to bankruptcy filings.
Economic pressures and industry headwinds
Owners cited several factors behind the closure, including the distillery’s challenging launch during the pandemic and health changes in one of the owners that reduced their capabilities to run the business. The owners said they attempted to find investors or a buyer but were unable to secure a deal amid the current economic environment.
Remaining inventory will continue to be sold through South Carolina liquor stores and online distributors while supplies last as the liquidation process moves forward.
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