By Ania Cajuste, DVI Intern
With major development projects on the horizon and more people coming to live and work in Downtown Jacksonville, it has become a great place for entrepreneurs and small businesses to put down roots. There are so many businesses that are unique to DTJax, some that you may have heard of as well as a few hidden gems. “Found in DTJax” is your guide the shops, restaurants and venues that you can find ONLY in Downtown Jacksonville.
November edition: Manifest Distilling
Founded in 2016, Manifest Distilling is located in Downtown Jacksonville’s Sports District, home of the Everbank Field and other sports venues.
Manifest prides itself in utilizing American-made distillation equipment, as well as using grains sourced from a network of co-ops throughout North America. The distillation process for their spirits is greatly influenced by the Siebel Institute, a brew school that is famous for its techniques.
A few noteworthy aspects of the distillery include:
The Standard- A guided tour that gives an overview of the production area, with the chance to view and learn about spirits. Tours end in the tasting room, with free samples of spirits and cocktails.
Distiller’s Tour- A more detailed tour of the production process that provides a look into the science of distillation and what goes into making the spirits you love to drink. This tour ends with tasting as well, but with sensory perception, nosing and blind tasting.
Private Tastings- Private guided tastings are available for groups of 10+.
The distillery’s 9,000 square foot space boasts a modern, upscale design and consists of three versatile spaces: the bar, the tasting room and the distillery. Each space connects with rolling glass doors allowing for a range of private or semi-private events. The bar can host 60 people, the tasting room can host 30 people and the distillery can host 167 people. The selection of spaces allows them to host a variety of different events, such as weddings, birthday parties and business functions.
Currently, Manifest offers five different spirits: Potato Vodka, Gin, Rye, Barreled Gin and Florida Citrus Vodka, with several of them earning awards from events such as the New York World Wine & Spirits Competition.
Manifest spirits can be purchased in their tasting room, ordered online through EZRA’S shipping to 36 states in the U.S. or found in select stores all over Jacksonville.