We visited Muddy River Distillery with a Groupon last weekend -- it included a tour, a tasting & a shot glass. Hold on to your shot glass - it gives you free tours for life! I so wish I lived closer!
The owners were super friendly and you could tell they love what they do. We went to the 4:00 tour, but if you're a better planner I heard the 5:00 is the longer, more informative tour. We didn't have reservations but they seemed flexible with walk-ins.
The owner talks to you a bit about Muddy River, what they are working on, where you can find them - but let's be real, we're all waiting for the tasting. You get to taste 6 of their spirits - including a couple of moonshines. My faves were the coconut rum and the amaretto moonshine, yum!
They have a shop in the front where you can buy direct from them (1 bottle/per person/per year, thanks NC laws). I would definitely visit again, hopefully for the 5:00 tour next time!
Tip: Bring a bottle of water to cleanse your palate between tastes!