Kentucky Bourbon Distilleries: Imbibing New Traditions

Sipping on Tradition: A Deep Dive into Kentucky Bourbon Distilleries

Oh, bourbon! That sweet, amber nectar that warms the soul and tells a tale of the Bluegrass State with every sip. But what’s better than talking about Kentucky’s signature drink? Diving ‘neat’ and deep into the ever-expanding universe of Kentucky bourbon distilleries. Whether you’re a greenhorn to the bourbon scene or a seasoned enthusiast chomping at the bit to discover new spirits and storied bars, buckle up, and let’s embark on a little tour de Kentucky.

The Tippling Boom in Kentucky

It’s a bourbon gold rush out here, folks! New distilleries pop up faster than corks on Derby Day, making Kentucky the equivalent of Disneyland for adults. Each one, from Eastern to Western Kentucky, adds unique flavors and stories to the commonwealth’s rich tapestry. Some are already spilling their hearts out in bottles, while others tease us with the promise of future tours and tastings. As of now, these rookies haven’t joined the legendary Kentucky Bourbon Trail, but don’t you worry – they’re already crafting their legacies.

From Coal to Barrel: Brothers Wright Distilling

Picture this: a disused underground coal mine turned whiskey wonderland. That’s exactly what brothers Kendall and Shannon Wright had in mind for Pike County. Being crafty, they’ve invested a cool $38 million into creating a distillery, welcome center, and even a cozy lodge for a sip-and-stay experience. But the pièce de résistance? They’re aging bourbon in the sprawling underground tunnels. Talk about a miner’s touch!

If you’re itching for some of their spirits, “Brothers Wright,” “Barrel Proof,” or “Rye Bourbon” might just be sitting on a store shelf near you, waiting to play a part in your next toast.

Bourbon with a Dash of Nostalgia: J. Mattingly 1845 Distillery

Frankfort’s new kid on the block, J. Mattingly, is really an old soul in a modern flask. Jeff Mattingly brings his forefather’s distilling prowess to today’s scene, revitalizing a family legacy that’s connected to big names like Brown Forman and Maker’s Mark. With a shiny new $6 million distillery, they’re not just inviting us in for a drink – they’re offering the chance to blend a personal, brag-worthy bottle. Ah, the art of the blend!

But wait, there’s more – special edition releases like “Open Doors” bourbon, “Frankfort Hayride” light whiskey, and “Rye’lly” rye await those with a palate for the unique and historic.

The Confluence of Craft and Career: Potter Jane Distilling Co.

Denny Potter and Jane Bowie, the forces behind Potter Jane, are the Bonnie and Clyde of bourbon – minus the crime and with a lot more whiskey. These two Maker’s Mark alums have concrete (or should we say limestone?) plans for a $50 million distillery in Springfield, with aspirations of crafting bourbons that sing bourbon ballads to the heart.

Their motto? “Why rush perfection?” They’re focusing on age-old methods and small rickhouses perched atop Kentucky’s rolling hills. Meanwhile, they’ll be whiskey fairy godparents to other brands through contract distilling services until their own bourbon babies come of age.

Whiskey House: The Contractor’s Dream

Ever wanted a space where you could craft whiskey to your heart’s content without the nitty-gritty of branding? Enter Whiskey House in Elizabethtown. Spearheaded by Bardstown Bourbon Co.’s alumni, this outfit is setting the stage to be the ‘Willy Wonka’ of whiskey manufacturing – minus the Oompa Loompas, of course.

Practicality is king here, as they focus on pushing the boundaries of bespoke contract distilling services without the fuss of tours or traditional brand development. Think of them as the behind-the-scenes maestros of your future favorite bourbon.

Back to the Future with Western Distilling Co.

Western Distilling has burst onto the scene in Beaver Dam, laying claim as Ohio County’s first official post-Prohibition distillery. They’re marrying past and present, filling their first barrel and plotting a course to distill 50,000 more yearly.

Master Distiller Jacob Call and founder J.D. Edwards have set up an ambitious plan that could well cement Western Distilling as both a contract distilling powerhouse and a future creators’ hub.

So there you have it, folks – a taste of the bourbon industry’s vibrant expansion, from time-honored traditions to the cutting edge. These distilleries are pouring their hearts into every bottle, creating liquid lore that’s defining Kentucky’s spirited renaissance. Sip on that!

Written by Janet Patton, who covers the four B’s – bars, bourbon, business, and (why not?) bees – for the Herald-Leader. Her stories have the kick of a finely-aged Kentucky rye and the smoothness of a triple-distilled wheated whiskey. Want more tipsy tales and boozy news? Support her excellent reportage and become a digital subscriber. Keep on sippin’!

And while these distilleries ferment their future, let’s raise a glass to their ambition, craftsmanship, and – dare we say – spirit! After all, Kentucky bourbon isn’t just a drink; it’s a heritage distilled.