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Menhaden Whisky Society Presents
Experience an unforgettable evening of American whiskey, craftsmanship, and innovation as the Menhaden Whisky Society welcomes Dixon Dedman, Founder and Master Blender of 2XO Whiskey, to 34° North Restaurant.
Meaning of "2XO" in Whisky
In the context of whisky, "2XO" stands for "Two Times Oak", a name coined by master blender Dixon Dedman for his award‑winning Kentucky straight bourbon brand.
The term refers to a unique blending and finishing process where each 2XO expression is given additional oak exposure beyond standard bourbon aging. Dedman pioneered a double‑barreling technique: he takes hand‑selected aged whiskey and re‑barrels it into new charred oak barrels. This extra oak interaction adds sweetness to balance the spice from rye in the mash bills, creating a distinctive combination of intense flavors, complexity, and character.
Meet Dixon Dedman
Founder & Master Blender, 2XO Whiskey
Dixon Dedman is one of the most recognized names in modern American whiskey. A Kentucky native and fifth-generation hospitality professional, Dixon is the great-great-grandson of Charles Mortimer Dedman, who founded the historic Kentucky Owl whiskey brand in 1879.
More than a century later, Dixon revived Kentucky Owl, earning national recognition for his distinctive approach to blending bourbon and rye. He later launched 2XO Whiskey — Two Times Oak, built around his signature blending process that introduces additional new charred oak to carefully selected mature whiskey.
With generations of Kentucky heritage behind him and an innovative approach to whiskey making today, Dixon brings a rare combination of history, hospitality, blending expertise, and storytelling to the Menhaden Whisky Society.
Executive Chef Tyler Smith and the 34° North culinary team will present chef-crafted small plates thoughtfully paired with the evening’s featured 2XO expressions.
Featured Whisky Pours
- French Oak Bourbon Whisky
- American Oak Straight Bourbon Whisky
- White Oak Straight Rye Whisky
Reservations
- $40 per person, plus tax & service charges
- Call 252-838-7234
- Online registration: 34DegreesNorthRestaurant.com/Menhaden-Whisky-Society
Reservations must be secured with a credit card.
Make It a Coastal Escape
Why end the evening after the final pour?
Turn your whisky experience into a November getaway on the Crystal Coast and enjoy 20% off select stays at the Beaufort Hotel.
Experience holiday Beaufort, waterfront dining at 34° North Restaurant and an evening of exceptional bourbon—all in one coastal escape.
About the Menhaden Whisky Society
At 34° North Restaurant, whisky lovers gather to explore, taste and honor Beaufort’s maritime legacy—from storied barrels to working fishing boats. Each month brings a new theme, spirited conversation and memorable experiences inspired by the soul of the Crystal Coast.