Marlin & Barrel Distillery Grand Opening

Submitted by Gerry Clare
Roving Reporter
March 25, 2015 1:00 a.m.

Another foggy morning did not dampen the “spirits” of those who attended the Chamber ribbon cutting and grand opening of the new distillery at 115 South Second Street on Friday, March 20th. Roger and Heather Morenc, founders and owners of the new business were busy at the tasting bar after the ceremony as customers packed the newly renovated building for the first batches of vodka and rum.

The former warehouse has distillery in the rear with the stills, oak barrels and bottled spirits, visible through the window at the front in the bar area. The Morencs and Frank Hoffmeister, the Brand Ambassador, were pleased at the turnout and have almost sold out their first batches, which will have to be replenished. They were selling the product, made from Florida sugar cane, in distinctive bottles signed with the opening date, as well as T-shirts, glasses and other items.

In evidence nearby was an old bathtub, found in Jacksonville by the roadside and now painted and “figuratively” ready for the next production of gin. Following the gin product will be rye. The owners are very excited about the turnout and encouragement they have received and have plenty of room in the front of the house to set up tables and catering for special events, weddings and parties as well.

When asked why they opened a distillery here in downtown Fernandina Beach, Morenc mentioned that he had been working up the corporate ladder for over 20 years, when he was offered a new promotion out of this area, where he and his wife are raising their children. After thinking about it, they realized that they really didn’t want to leave and decided to create “something they could be proud of that was their own.” The Morencs are completely “hands on” and involved in every aspect of the business and couldn’t imagine moving away from this wonderful beach community that they love, although Heather continues to work from home at her job.

They will be open Wednesday, Thursday and Friday evenings and Saturday afternoon on and hope to have their website up and running soon. They can be reached at 321-230-4755.

Editor’s Note: Gerry began free lance writing for fun and is the author of a published book (available on Amazon and at Books Plus) about funny real estate experiences. Gerry is a longtime member of our local American Business Women’s Chapter, a volunteer cancer driver and church deacon who loves to read, travel and meet interesting people.