What's on Tap in Ocala/Marion County, Florida?

Ocala/Marion County, Florida is a charming locale in Central Florida. It's welcoming and eclectic, and not often associated with the theme park scene located 75 miles southeast, or the coastal community situated 70 miles to the southwest. There's something unique brewing in this off the beaten path location. So what's on tap in the area? Let's start with Infinite Ale Works.

Located in the downtown Ocala historic district, in a repurposed auto service garage, Infinite Ale Works comes complete with foosball, ping-pong tables and an indie store selling local craft salsa, chips, ice-cream and more. Still hungry? Order a gourmet pizza from Pi On Broadway, their sister company which is located a few blocks over, or enjoy a fresh twist on tapas. Ask for the tomato goat cheese dip, the tuna crudo or the chickpea-crusted ahi lettuce wraps just to name a few. Plus, they'll deliver it all right to your barstool.

The owner's love of Belgian craft beers (try Saison) and with more than 40 craft beers on tap, Infinite Ale Works is becoming a favorite gathering spot for travelers and locals alike. On any given night, expect a German wheat beer, a Lambic or Belgian quad, or even a nitrogen-tapped milk stout, and don't expect the same beer menu to be on tap the next time your return. What you can expect is a friendly bartender, a welcoming crowd and an atmosphere that makes you feel at home.

The County is full of surprises. Did you know the County has a farm-to-bottle distillery in their backyard? Ocala/Marion County is home to Fish Hawk Spirits as the owners were drawn to the area because of the many crystal clear water sources. In fact, the distillery uses the artesian waters of Rainbow Springs, in Dunnellon, Florida for its purity. Fish Hawk Spirits is unique as it combines the crystal clear spring waters with farm fresh ingredients from across the state, starting in their backyard as oats are harvested from their farm in Ocala/ Marion County while other Florida farmers provide fresh blueberries, tangerines, watermelons and more.

What's new(s): This fall Fish Hawk Spirits will launch six new whiskey blends. The first three to hit the shelves are:

Siren Song – A bold handcrafted whiskey with a smooth taste and clarity resembling that of Rainbow Springs. Siren Song is destined to become an instant classic for the true whiskey connoisseur.

Conquistador 1513 – A sophisticated blend, this spirit uses Florida-grown raw and smoked oats, mashed then distilled and infused with charred American Oak chips. The Conquistador 1513 lives up to its namesake, honoring the Spanish discoverers who reached Florida in the early 1500s with a single sip—a discovery of flavor on its own.

Silver Queen – A royal blend, only 100 bottles of this spirit will be available this season. Silver Queen is crafted in handmade bins and made with Silver Queen corn, grown locally on Fish Hawks farm and is, of course, GMO-free. This rare batch is flavored with the entire corn plant, allowing the sugar found in the stalk to give this whiskey a sweet and full-bodied taste.

Stay tuned as Fish Hawk Spirits will be launching three additional spirits in late fall and for travelers visiting The Horse Capital of the World™, a visit to the area wouldn't be complete without a guided horseback ride to the distillery to truly embody the heart of the destination. This tour offers guests a one of a kind experience while showcasing the signature spirits Fish Hawk's has to offer. For reservations, call 352-445-1292.

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About: Outdoor adventures abound. Ocala/Marion County offers countless opportunities to connect with nature and relax in a classic Florida destination. Home to the Ocala National Forest, the second largest national forest in the state, as well as historical Silver Springs. This unique destination is ideal for both leisure and business travelers who seek authentic outdoor experiences. Known as the Horse Capital of the World™ with more than 700 horse farms, the County boasts a legacy of breeding and training world champion thoroughbreds. Centrally located less than two hours from Orlando, Daytona Beach and Tampa, Ocala/Marion County is a must-stop when visiting Central Florida. For more information on Ocala/Marion County, visit our website, follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest and Twitter, or call toll-free 1.888.FL.OCALA.

For more information:

Ashley Dobbs

352-438-2800

ashley.dobbs@marioncountyfl.org