A SPIRITED ADVENTURE

By Heather Turk

Whether you are looking for an enlightening activity to enjoy with friends or you love drinking quality spirits, Alligator Bay Distillers in Punta Gorda/ Englewood Beach has got it covered.

Celebrating its seventh anniversary in April, the family owned and operated small batch craft distillery operates from inside of a 3,000-square-foot warehouse located in Punta Gorda. Known for its handcrafted, award-winning rums and whiskey, the distillery produces 10,000 bottles a year and is one of only a few Florida distilleries to use a traditional pot still during its production process. Guests can learn more about the production process and see the production facilities up close by taking a complimentary 25-minute tour of the distillery.

“A lot of guests who visit the distillery are first-time visitors, and they leave saying, ‘I didn’t know it took that much to make liquor,’” said Alexander Voss, who along with his brother, Benjamin, co-founded Alligator Bay Distillers. “People are fascinated to see the step-by-step process with the science that we incorporate.”

Guided tours are offered at the top of the hour from 11 a.m. until 3 p.m., Monday through Saturday, and generally cap off at

15 people, making them an ideal activity for birthday or bachelor/bachelorette parties. While walk-ins are welcome (space permitting), it is always best to book a tour online in advance.

Although guests receive free samples of the distillery’s available spirits at the conclusion of every tour, the distillery also has a bar onsite serving craft spirit cocktails for visitors to enjoy. Its signature piña colada is made from ingredients sourced within a 100-mile radius of the distillery, making it a true Florida libation. Bottled spirits are available for purchase as well, so guests can bring a taste of Florida home with them. alligatorbaydistillers.com