By Anna-Claire Terry
Staff Reporter
Co-owners and distillers Jimmy and John Sharp have plans in the works for exciting additions to John Emerald Distillery. Blueprints have been drawn up to add a new tasting room, bar and large double doors that will open into the outdoor area slated to be transformed into a park by the land owner.
According to Jimmy, the double doors will allow customers to enjoy a more relaxed and spacious environment. “People will be able to spread out more and we can better showcase our products,” he said. He said as the distillery’s success grows, it is important to make sure the facility grows as well.
The doors will cost an estimated $15,000. The Sharps will use “crowd funding” to help raise the money for the renovations. Those who donate will receive “perks” at the distillery.
“The doors are really a piece to a bigger puzzle,” Jimmy said. “The park area will be accessible to Red Clay Brewery and other surrounding businesses.”
The distillery has a page for donations on IndieGoGo.com, and will collect donations for the next two months.
Jimmy and John said expansions on the distillery could benefit the community by bringing people in to Opelika to shop and eat. “It’s adding to an outdoor space that will better downtown,” Jimmy said.
To make a donation, visit https://igg.me/at/JEDwall.