In a historic moment for spirits enthusiasts and the local community, Western Kentucky Distilling Co. has proudly announced the grand opening of its brand-new, state-of-the-art distillery, nestled in the heart of Beaver Dam, Kentucky. This monumental venture, with a staggering investment of $30 million, marks a significant milestone in the revival of spirits production in Ohio County, as it signifies the first official distillery since the days of Prohibition.
At the helm of this ambitious endeavor is the accomplished eighth-generation distiller, Jacob Call, who will not only lead the distillery as its Chief Operating Officer but will also serve as the Master Distiller, ensuring the authenticity and quality of the spirits produced. Joining him is JD Edwards, a Kentucky native, who takes the role of President of Western Kentucky Distilling Co., making it clear that this venture is deeply rooted in the traditions and culture of the state.
The distillery, located at 1880 Old Liberty Church Road, Beaver Dam, Kentucky, finds its home within the Bluegrass Crossing Business Center, built upon land that was once a thriving farm. Spanning an impressive 25,000 square feet across 80 acres, the site includes a staggering 15 warehouses, collectively encompassing an additional 300,000 square feet.
One of the most remarkable aspects of this new distillery is its colossal production capacity. Western Kentucky Distilling Co. boasts the capability to distill over 50,000 barrels of bourbon and rye whiskey annually, with storage facilities accommodating up to 250,000 barrels. This monumental capacity showcases the commitment to delivering high-quality spirits not only to the local community but to enthusiasts worldwide.
The project's immediate impact on the region is evident, with 25 jobs already created, and an additional 35 full-time positions anticipated as production ramps up. This influx of employment opportunities is a testament to the distillery's commitment to being a valuable contributor to the local economy.
Jacob Call, reflecting on the distillery's grand opening, remarked, "It's a proud moment for our team at Western Kentucky Distilling Co. as we open the doors and start making Kentucky bourbon and rye whiskey within our walls. Kentucky whiskey has a rich history in our state, and it's an honor for our distillery to become part of that legacy. As the first official distillery in Ohio County since Prohibition, we're excited to be part of the community and also bring jobs to the region."
In addition to the distillery's commitment to its heritage and community, it's worth noting that Western Kentucky Distilling Co. is proudly 100% Kentucky owned. The dedication to the state's rich distilling traditions is evident in every aspect of the operation, with key team members boasting long-standing family histories in Kentucky, and the production equipment sourced locally. This includes a Vendome 36-inch copper still and a plan to use locally grown Kentucky corn in their distillation process.
As Western Kentucky Distilling Co. opens its doors and welcomes the world to experience the art of crafting premium bourbon and rye whiskey, it not only fulfills a dream but also embarks on a journey to secure its place in the annals of Kentucky's storied spirits heritage. With authenticity, passion, and a deep commitment to the local community, this distillery is poised to become a key player in the revival of spirits production in the region, carrying on a tradition that has been deeply rooted in the soul of Kentucky for generations.
