John Emerald Distilling Company, located in the heart of historic downtown Opelika, isn’t just a place to grab a cocktail – it’s a testament to family legacy and the rich tradition of Southern spirits. This one of a kind distillery is owned by father-son duo John and Jimmy Sharp, who set out to bring an authentic, traditional approach to the art of distilling. They proudly produced Alabama’s first legal whiskey and rum since the Prohibition era, reviving a craft that’s deeply rooted in the state’s history.
Jimmy Sharp and his father John Sharp opened the distillery in 2013. The name pays homage to John’s father, John Emerald Sharp. John Emerald Distilling Company prides itself on handcrafting small-batch spirits, including whiskey, gin, rum, and vodka, each made with locally sourced ingredients and a deep commitment to excellence. The unique bottle design often features an animal on the label.
“The animals mean that particular product is ground-to-glass. It went straight from the farm all the way to the bottle.” said Jimmy.
The Sharps’ commitment to quality and creativity is evident in every bottle, from their flagship John’s Alabama Single Malt Whiskey, which boasts complex, smoky flavors, to their floral Hugh Wesley’s Gin, a nod to the classic Southern botanicals. In addition to their acclaimed whiskey and rum, they offer a range of other spirits that reflect their commitment to quality and craftsmanship.
The distillery itself is housed in a beautifully restored, former cotton warehouse in downtown Opelika and hosts tours and tastings to showcase the special process behind each spirit. Guests can enjoy guided samplings and learn firsthand about the artistry involved, creating an experience that feels more like a visit to a friend’s home than a commercial distillery.
With their spirits rooted in values of honoring God, their fellow man, and their family, The Sharps aim to "extend the concept of family to the community through growing relationships with everyone who walks through the door," said Jimmy.
Their journey is inspired by their Scottish heritage, drawing from a deep respect for time-honored methods while embracing new techniques that keep each spirit distinctive and fresh. The success of John Emerald Distilling Company stems from John and Jimmy’s strong work ethic and passion for their craft and the community’s unwavering support for this hometown favorite.
“The folks that come here are just great. They drink responsibly, and they enjoy themselves and enjoy our spirits, which is important,” said John.
John Emerald’s presence is interwoven in Opelika’s identity, bringing people together and adding a unique, local flavor.
For locals and visitors alike, John Emerald Distilling Company is more than a stop on the craft spirits trail – it’s an invitation to celebrate the joy and dedication that a family business can bring to a community.