Gulf Stream Distillery sits in an industrial stretch of Fort Lauderdale, about a mile inland from the Intracoastal Waterway. Founded by partners Mike Jatich and Pepe Hernandez, the operation opened in 2018 after the duo spent years perfecting their craft and navigating Florida’s distilling regulations. Jatich brings decades of experience from the construction industry, while Hernandez handled the business development side of launching their venture. They focus on producing rum, vodka, and gin in small batches using a custom copper still setup in their 3,000-square-foot facility. The space feels more like a working laboratory than a tourist destination, with stainless steel fermentation tanks and copper equipment dominating the production floor. You’ll find them running a lean operation where the founders often handle everything from distilling to bottling to pouring tastings. Their approach centers on using quality ingredients and letting the spirits speak for themselves rather than relying on flashy marketing or elaborate tasting rooms.