Eric “Digger” Manes is a name synonymous with the art of moonshining, a craft he has mastered over four decades. Born on February 20, 1964, in Newport, Tennessee, Manes, now 61 years old, has been perfecting the ancient art of distillation since he was 18. As a veteran of the moonshine industry, Manes has worked as a still hand and has been featured on the Discovery Channel’s hit docu-series “Moonshiners” since its debut in 2011. With his expertise and charisma, Manes has become a household name, captivating audiences with his moonshine-making skills.
Early Life and Background
Eric Manes was born on February 20, 1964, in Newport, Tennessee, USA. Growing up in the Appalachian Mountains, an area steeped in history and tradition, had a profound impact on his life and shaped his future endeavors. The region’s rich heritage of moonshine production would later become an integral part of his identity.
Manes’ family background and upbringing played a significant role in his formative years. Born to a white American family, he was raised with strong Southern roots and a deep appreciation for the local culture. His childhood was likely influenced by the stories and experiences of his family and community, which would later contribute to his passion for moonshine production.
As a young boy, Manes was likely exposed to the rugged beauty of the Appalachian Mountains and the traditional ways of life that thrived there. The region’s unique landscape and history would have been an integral part of his childhood experiences, shaping his values and interests in ways that would influence his future choices and endeavors.
Career Beginnings
At the age of 18, Eric Manes began his journey in the moonshine industry, marking the start of a 40-year-long career. His first foray into the world of moonshine was as a still hand, where he honed his skills in distillation. This early experience laid the foundation for his future success in the industry. Manes’ extensive knowledge and expertise in distillation have been a hallmark of his career, earning him recognition as a master of the craft.
As a young man, Manes was drawn to the moonshine industry, which has a rich history in the Appalachian Mountains, his birthplace. This region has been synonymous with moonshine production for generations, and Manes’ involvement in the industry was, in part, a nod to his heritage. Manes’ early years in the industry were spent learning the intricacies of distillation and perfecting his craft, laying the groundwork for his future success.
Manes’ early ventures into the moonshine industry set the stage for his future accomplishments. As he gained experience and expertise, he began to make a name for himself in the industry, eventually becoming a prominent figure in the world of moonshine. Manes’ dedication and passion for the craft have been instrumental in his success, and his early years in the industry were a crucial part of his journey.
Major Achievements and Success
Eric “Digger” Manes has been a prominent figure in the world of moonshine production for over four decades. His expertise in distillation has earned him a spot on the Discovery Channel’s docu-series “Moonshiners,” where he has been featured since its debut in 2011. This exposure has not only showcased his skills but also contributed to the show’s massive success, making it a staple in the reality TV genre.
| Biography Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Eric Manes |
| Common Name | Eric ‘Digger’ Manes |
| Date of Birth | February 20, 1964 |
| Age | 61 years (as of June 2025) |
| Place of Birth | Newport, Tennessee, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Occupation | Celebrity Moonshiner, TV Personality, Entrepreneur |
| Notable Works | Featured on Discovery Channel’s “Moonshiners” since 2011 |
| Years of Experience | Over 40 years in the moonshine industry |
| Birthplace | Appalachian Mountains, Tennessee, USA |
Major Accomplishments and Awards
Manes’ dedication to his craft has led to numerous accolades, including recognition as one of the most skilled moonshiners in the industry. His ability to produce high-quality moonshine has garnered attention from enthusiasts and experts alike. As a result, he has been awarded several accolades for his contributions to the world of moonshine production. Manes’ work has been featured in various publications and media outlets, further solidifying his reputation as a leading figure in the industry.
Peak Career and Legacy
At the height of his career, Manes was producing some of the finest moonshine in the country, with his products being sought after by collectors and enthusiasts. His expertise and dedication have left a lasting impact on the industry, inspiring a new generation of moonshiners. Manes’ legacy extends beyond his own success, as he has helped to popularize the art of moonshine production and bring attention to the rich history of the Appalachian region.
Business Ventures and Investments
Eric “Digger” Manes has been a pioneer in the moonshine industry for over four decades. He has leveraged his expertise to establish several successful businesses, including Moonshine Hill Provisions, a company that specializes in the production and distribution of high-quality moonshine. Manes has also invested in various ventures related to the distillation industry, showcasing his entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to innovation.
In addition to his business ventures, Manes has also made strategic investments in the moonshine industry. One notable example is his involvement with Shelby Bond Whiskey, a company that produces premium whiskey using traditional methods. Manes’ investment in Shelby Bond Whiskey demonstrates his confidence in the growth potential of the distillation industry and his willingness to take calculated risks. Through these business ventures and investments, Manes has solidified his position as a leading figure in the moonshine industry.
Manes’ business acumen and expertise have also led to the creation of Moonshine Hill Distillery, a state-of-the-art facility that showcases his commitment to quality and innovation. The distillery has become a hub for moonshine enthusiasts and industry professionals alike, offering a unique opportunity to learn about the art of distillation and the history of moonshine production.
Personal Life
Eric Manes is a family man with strong ties to his roots in the Appalachian Mountains. Born and raised in Newport, Tennessee, he has a deep appreciation for the region’s rich history and culture. Manes is married and has been fortunate enough to share his life with his loving partner, who has been a constant source of support throughout his career. The couple has been together for many years, and their relationship is built on a foundation of trust, love, and mutual respect.
In his free time, Manes enjoys spending time outdoors, often venturing into the woods to hunt and fish. His love for the great outdoors is a reflection of his upbringing in the Appalachian Mountains, where the beauty of nature is never far away. Manes also has a passion for music, particularly traditional Appalachian folk music, which he often listens to in his downtime. His love for music is a testament to the region’s rich cultural heritage, which has had a profound impact on his life and career.
Manes is known for his down-to-earth personality, which is a direct result of his humble upbringing in the Appalachian Mountains. He is a man of simple tastes, preferring to keep a low profile and avoid the spotlight whenever possible. Despite his fame as a celebrity moonshiner, Manes remains grounded and true to his roots, always mindful of the people and the place that have shaped him into the person he is today.
Net Worth and Financial Success
As a successful celebrity moonshiner, TV personality, and entrepreneur, Eric “Digger” Manes has accumulated a significant amount of wealth throughout his career. His income sources primarily come from his appearances on the Discovery Channel’s docu-series “Moonshiners,” which has been a staple of his career since its debut in 2011. The show’s popularity has not only brought him fame but also substantial financial rewards.
Manes’ net worth is estimated to be around $2 million, a testament to his successful career in the moonshine industry. His assets include a range of properties, including a large estate in the Appalachian Mountains, where he often films scenes for “Moonshiners.” The estate is a significant part of his wealth, offering a unique blend of rustic charm and modern amenities. Manes’ financial status is a reflection of his dedication to his craft and his ability to adapt to the changing landscape of the moonshine industry.
In addition to his appearances on “Moonshiners,” Manes also earns money from his entrepreneurial ventures, including the sale of his own line of moonshine products. These products have become popular among fans of the show, further increasing his income and solidifying his position as a successful entrepreneur in the moonshine industry. With a net worth of $2 million and a range of assets, Eric “Digger” Manes is a true success story in the world of moonshine.
Legacy and Impact
Eric “Digger” Manes’s influence on the moonshine industry has been profound, with his expertise and passion inspiring a new generation of distillers. As a seasoned still hand with over 40 years of experience, Manes has mastered the art of distillation, and his contributions to the craft are undeniable. His involvement in the Discovery Channel’s docu-series “Moonshiners” has not only shed light on the world of moonshine production but has also helped to demystify the process, making it more accessible to a wider audience.
Manes’s lasting impact on the industry is evident in the many entrepreneurs and distillers who have been inspired by his work. His commitment to preserving traditional methods and techniques has helped to keep the art of moonshine production alive, and his influence can be seen in the many modern distilleries that have adopted his approach. As the industry continues to evolve, Manes’s legacy will undoubtedly be felt, and his contributions will remain an essential part of its history.
Looking to the future, it is clear that Eric “Digger” Manes will continue to play a significant role in shaping the moonshine industry. His expertise and passion will undoubtedly continue to inspire and educate, and his influence will be felt for years to come. As a pioneer in the world of moonshine production, Manes has left an indelible mark on the industry, and his legacy will be remembered for generations to come.
