Since its debut in 2011, Moonshiners has captivated audiences with a world rarely seen—one full of tradition, danger, and often, laughter. Among the standout stars is Mark Ramsey, a veteran moonshiner whose craft and charisma have earned him a devoted following. However, recent events have left fans wondering: where is Mark Ramsey now, and will he be leaving Moonshiners for good?
Trouble With the Law
Issues with law enforcement are nothing new to the Moonshiners cast, but during the show’s 12th season, things took a more serious turn for Mark. A local policeman warned him that a case was being built against him over alleged illegal distillation activities. Concerned about the possibility of jail time, Mark and his longtime business partner Eric “Digger” Manes decided to step back temporarily.
To keep their operation afloat, they entrusted their Tennessee-based distillery to their friend Killer Bees, passing down their secrets and teaching him how to avoid detection. Although they left the business for the time being, Mark and Digger insisted their departure was not permanent.
Previous Close Calls
Mark and Digger’s brushes with the law are well documented. In an episode from season 11, the two were busted while preparing to distill in a rented basement. Although no formal charges were brought against them, police issued a stern warning after complaints surfaced about illegal whiskey-making in the area. Mark later admitted, “We’re not in handcuffs at the second, but honestly, we don’t know what our future holds.”
Beyond Moonshining
Even when he’s not working the still, Mark Ramsey remains deeply tied to the liquor business. Along with Digger, he collaborates with Sugarlands Distilling Company in Tennessee, contributing to the Moonshiners Legends product line launched in 2017. Their hazelnut moonshine recipe, inspired by their mentor Marvin “Popcorn” Sutton, has been a standout hit.
Mark and Digger are also involved with Adventure Distilling Company, where they help produce spirits and offer tours celebrating moonshine heritage. Mark’s wife, Sally Jane Clark, is a major part of this world too, managing Adventure Distilling and producing her own cinnamon-flavored liquor, “Sinna Shine,” through South Mountain Distilling.
Other Ventures
The pair’s entrepreneurial spirit extends beyond liquor. Mark and Digger endorse “Mowing With a Breeze,” a helmet-like mask designed to protect users from allergens and chemical smells during outdoor work. Their passion for the outdoors and practical inventions reflects their down-to-earth lifestyle.
The Pandemic Boom
Surprisingly, the COVID-19 pandemic brought an unexpected boom to the moonshine business. As Mark explained to Fox News in 2020, stress from quarantines led to a surge in alcohol demand. “Moonshine is an all-around cure-all. If you’re sad, you drink it to drown your sorrows. If you’re happy, you drink it to celebrate,” Mark said.
Despite supply chain challenges, Mark and Digger kept their operation running by relying on ingredients stockpiled early in the pandemic.
NASCAR Connections
In 2018, Sugarlands Distilling partnered with NASCAR to become its official moonshine, a natural fit given the historical ties between bootlegging and stock car racing. Mark and Digger have embraced the racing culture, even calling Talladega Superspeedway their “home track,” where they’ve been warmly welcomed by fans.
On-Screen and Beyond
Mark’s TV appearances extend beyond Moonshiners. He featured in the 2016 special Smoky Mountain Rise and in the 2017 spin-off Shiners on Shine. He has served as a judge on Master Distiller, a competition show that highlights America’s top spirit-makers, and also appeared on Expedition X during its 2021 season.
Through it all, Mark remains committed to honoring the traditions of moonshining while innovating for future generations. He recognizes the hardships and legal risks that come with the job but believes deeply in preserving the craft.
“The old-timers weren’t criminals—they were doing what they had to do to survive,” Mark told Fox News in 2020.
Is Moonshiners Real?
Despite some controversy over the show’s authenticity, Mark assures fans that what they see is genuine. “It’s authentic what we do,” he said in 2017. “We can permit ourselves to be found by the law because it’s very much against the law.”
Whether Moonshiners always shows events exactly as they happen or uses a bit of creative license, one thing is clear: Mark Ramsey, Digger Manes, and their fellow stars have left an indelible mark on television—and on the American spirit.
