Do you know how Georgia became the Peach State?

It all goes back to 1850, when twenty-year old P.J. Berckmans sailed to the United States from Belgium in search of the American Dream. He went on to purchase more than 315 acres in Augusta, Georgia to establish Fruitland Nurseries.

During his lifetime, he planted more than 3 million peach trees in Augusta. He became known as the father of peach tree culture in the South, giving Georgia its claim to fame.

In addition, Berckmans planted azaleas, oaks, daffodils, magnolias, camellias, wisteria, dogwoods, tall pines, and every other type of seedling he could get his hands on.

In 1931, Fruitland Nurseries was purchased by investors to build a golf club that has since become the most famous in the world. Berckmans’ original residence, with its iconic landscaping, still remains as the course’s clubhouse today, and his son Louis Alphonse helped design the course.

Berckmans Vodka honors the legacy of P.J.’s influence on the South. Our spirit brings people together outdoors to enjoy our beautiful country. We are proud of our history, and believe our culture is worth celebrating.