If you’re a fan of spirits, you’ll want to stop by the St. Augustine Distillery during your vacation there, one of the most popular St. Augustine things to do. The flavors of Florida produced here reflect Florida’s passion for the fun and sun of the state. Visiting this breathtaking historic attraction brings not only the joys of the drink, but the intrigue of history.
Started by a group of locals passionate about the process, the St. Augustine distillery sells small batch spirits to the local community. Aiming to make some of the best drinks in the world, the St. Augustine Distillery works with Florida’s natural offerings of citrus, sugar, corn, and wheat. After collaborating with farmers who grow unique Florida crops, the distillery found success by pushing the envelope and creating some of the country’s best spirits.
Florida’s Oldest Ice Plant
It’s interesting to know that this distillery rests in an ice plant from 1907. The original group wanted to find a space big enough for a distillery and for teaching guests about spirits. Luckily, the Historic HP&L Ice Plant had the necessary space for their needs. The group took over the historic site and restored it to working condition, saving some of the original photos to share with the community.
This ice plant, now a distillery, is a part of the Lincolnville neighborhood history, and the distillery owners respect its dignity. Home first to one of Florida’s first ice and power complexes, it is now the home of Florida’s first bourbon distillery. It is fitting that the factory was restored once again to bring a unique product to the people of Florida.
Spirits
The spirits here are created using the basics of American distilling. Only the best regional and local agriculture is added to the spirits, which has won these spirits a number of awards. The copper pot stills help create the unique flavor of this spirit line, which is crafted with quality in mind – not quantity. This company creates much less volume than other distilleries, but this is due to their attention to quality ingredients and processes. A few of their signature spirits are the Florida Double Cask Bourbon, Florida Can Vodka, Pot Distilled Rum, and Barrel-Finished Gin, among others. Grab some before they sell out, as they tend to do quickly.
Tours
If you’re visiting St. Augustine, you must make this a destination. The tours are free, as are the tastings. You’ll be able to watch as the spirits are being made, and you’ll have a chance to learn about the history of Florida’s ice and power operations. You’ll sample the wares in the tasting room, which is not to be missed, because you’ll savor unique American products. The tours run every 30 minutes, so if you miss a tour, stick around and wait until the next one begins. Weekend tours begin at 10:30 and run until 5:30. Children are welcome, but will not be able to enter the tasting room.
Rental Space
St. Augustine Distillery offers space for gatherings! You’ll be able to host many types of parties in the event room, which accommodates up to 60 people for seated events, and 100 people for standing room only. Add a special experience, such as the “Behind the Barrels” tour, for your group. Take advantage of the outdoor patio, museum space, and special accommodations for group gatherings, parties, and entertainment. Outside catering will be necessary, as the distillery does not offer food options.
History and Drink
Explore the museum on a self-guided tour if desired, and purchase our spirits in the store. Hold an event at the distillery, or simply stop by to see how it’s all done. They are passionate about what they do, and the site is steeped in history that you are sure to enjoy as one of the top places to see on a St. Augustine vacation. They give back to their community and work hard to preserve their piece of history.
