John Emerald Distilling Company: Alabama's Spirit Pioneer

4.9 (119)

Experience the taste of Alabama's first legal distillery since Prohibition. Tours, tastings, and handcrafted spirits await in historic downtown Opelika.

Home
Alabama
Opelika
John Emerald Distilling Company

John Emerald Distilling Company, Opelika's pride, is a family-run craft distillery and the first legal distillery in Alabama since Prohibition. Named after John Emerald Sharp, it produces award-winning whiskey, rum, gin, and vodka, offering tours and tastings in a beautifully restored cotton warehouse.

A brief summary to John Emerald Distilling Company

706 N Railroad Ave, Opelika, Alabama, 36801, US
Click to display
Click to display

Monday 1 pm-7 pm
Tuesday 1 pm-11 pm
Wednesday 1 pm-11 pm
Thursday 1 pm-11 pm
Friday 12 pm-12 am
Saturday 12 pm-12 am
Sunday 1 pm-7 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring John Emerald Distilling Company.

Check the distillery's website for tour schedules and to book tickets in advance, especially for weekend visits.
Sample a tasting flight to experience a variety of John Emerald's spirits.
Explore downtown Opelika's other shops and restaurants while you're in the area.

Do you manage this location?

Take control to get all the benefits, like improved information, better appearance, and stronger visibility across AI-powered discovery. Learn more

Activate your presence

Other nearby places you may find interesting

Opelika CSX - NS Diamond Crossing

Opelika CSX - NS Diamond Crossing: A Railfan's Delight

Siddique Nature Park

Siddique Nature Park: Opelika's Wildlife Oasis

Mary Olive Thomas Demonstration Forest

Mary Olive Thomas Demonstration Forest: A Natural Classroom

Getting There

Walking

John Emerald Distilling Company is located in downtown Opelika, easily accessible on foot from most points in the downtown area. From the intersection of 8th Street and Railroad Avenue, walk north on Railroad Avenue for a few blocks. The distillery will be on your left. No costs involved.
Public Transport

Opelika is served by Lee-Russell Public Transit (LRPT). Check the LRPT website or app for schedules and routes to the downtown area. From the nearest bus stop, walk to N Railroad Ave. Single ride fares are typically around $1.25.
Taxi/Ride-Share

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in Opelika. Request a ride to 706 N Railroad Ave, Opelika. The average cost for a short trip within Opelika is around $10-$15.

Discover more about John Emerald Distilling Company

Located in a revitalized cotton warehouse in downtown Opelika, the John Emerald Distilling Company is more than just a distillery; it's a testament to family legacy and Southern spirit. Founded by father-son duo John and Jimmy Sharp, the distillery honors their Scottish heritage and family members through its carefully crafted spirits. John Emerald Distilling Company holds the distinction of being the first legal distillery in Alabama since Prohibition, which ended in 1915 in Alabama. The distillery produces a range of spirits, including the award-winning John's Alabama Single Malt Whiskey, Hugh Wesley's Gin, Elizabeth Vodka, Spurgeon's Barrel Aged Rum, and Gene's Spiced Rum. Each spirit is named after a family member, adding a personal touch to the brand. Visitors can explore the distillery through guided tours, learning about the distilling process from grain to glass. The tours typically last 30-45 minutes and offer insights into the craftsmanship behind each spirit. The tasting room offers craft cocktails and neat pours, allowing guests to sample the distillery's creations. The distillery also hosts events and private parties, contributing to Opelika's vibrant atmosphere.