Digger & Mark Reveal the Legal Line They’re Afraid to Cross and Why It Still Haunts Them.
Moonshiners’ Eric “Digger” Manes & Mark Ramsey Open Up About Their Struggles, Prison Fears, and the Future of Moonshining
Eric “Digger” Manes and Mark Ramsey, stars of Moonshiners, have always been at the forefront of the clandestine world of moonshining. But in Season 15, their journey took a more sobering turn after an intense run-in with the law. Following an ordeal where the pair faced potential arrest, Digger and Mark have recalibrated their approach to both moonshining and life. In a recent exclusive interview, they share the lessons learned, their ongoing commitment to traditional methods, and the difficult decisions they’ve made to keep themselves—and their team—safe.
A Life-Altering Wake-Up Call
The moment that changed everything for Digger and Mark was last season’s brush with law enforcement. After being caught with a working still, the duo was detained by Officer David Robertson. Luckily for them, they were released, as the still had been damaged, making it non-functional. But the experience left a lasting impact. In the interview, Digger admits, “It will change your life. I promise you,” reflecting on the fear and reality of facing potential jail time.
Despite not being arrested, the fear of legal consequences continues to loom large over their operations. Mark candidly states, “It’s a threat that is always there. It’s something that could always happen. You never get completely comfortable with where you are.” For Digger and Mark, the risks of their craft are part of the challenge, but they have come to accept it as an inherent part of the moonshining world.
Making Hard Decisions for the Team’s Safety
One of the toughest decisions Digger and Mark had to make this season was to send away their colleagues Amanda Bryant and Kelly Williamson. While it wasn’t easy, the two felt it was necessary for everyone’s safety. As Digger puts it, “If we could prevent somebody from being collateral damage from the attention we’re drawing, we’re going to do just that.”
The duo also found support and guidance from their mentor, J.B. Rader, who they fondly refer to as their “Obi-Wan.” According to Digger, J.B. not only saved his life once from carbon monoxide poisoning but also helped keep them grounded. “We stepped back and looked at things. He told us, just like popcorn, we got too damn big for our britches. We took his advice, and we’re going to move forward at a slower pace.”
Staying True to Traditional Moonshining
In this season of Moonshiners, Digger and Mark are returning to their roots, focusing on the simple, traditional method of moonshining. Despite the booming popularity of high-tech methods and commercial distillation, the duo is steadfast in their belief that corn liquor is where they belong. As Digger explains, “We cut our teeth on corn and sugar liquor. That’s just where we think we belong.”
Mark adds that the challenges this season came from an entirely different angle. While the industry has seen price increases and shortages in supplies, they also faced unforeseen difficulties that forced them to rethink their approach. “We had to take approaches we wouldn’t usually take,” Mark says, hinting at some of the unexpected obstacles they had to overcome.
The Competitive Nature of Moonshining
While Digger and Mark’s bond remains strong, they have also acknowledged the increasing level of competition. When asked about the rising talent in moonshining, Digger admits that it’s getting harder to find contestants with the right skills. “We’re starting to get really great distillers. We’ve opened ourselves up to that,” he says, showing how the competition is evolving. “It’s extremely difficult to choose the best one,” Mark adds, acknowledging the growing skill and knowledge in the craft.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Moonshining
As the season progresses, the duo is facing more challenges than ever before, but their unwavering bond and commitment to the craft keep them going. Despite their success and years of experience, they remain humble and always willing to learn. “You’re the smartest you’ll ever be the day you die. Keep your eyes and ears open because you may just learn something,” Digger reflects.
For Digger and Mark, moonshining is not just about making liquor—it’s about living a life of tradition, hard work, and a deep respect for the craft. The legacy they’re building goes beyond just selling liquor; it’s about the people they meet, the lessons they learn, and the family they’ve created in the process.
With the industry continuing to evolve, Digger and Mark are prepared for whatever comes next, embracing the challenges and changes ahead. As Mark sums up, “The best drink of liquor has never been made yet.” For these two, the journey is far from over, and they are determined to keep pushing the boundaries of moonshining while staying true to the traditions that brought them to where they are today.
A New Chapter in Moonshining
As the Moonshiners season continues, Digger and Mark’s story is far from finished. Their friendship, commitment to traditional methods, and ability to adapt to challenges have been key to their success. Fans will continue to watch as the duo navigates the ups and downs of the moonshining world, facing new obstacles, and, perhaps most importantly, keeping their operations—and themselves—safe from the ever-present threat of the law.
With a clear sense of purpose, unwavering resolve, and a commitment to their craft, Digger and Mark are ready for whatever comes next—whether it’s in the distillery or beyond.
