In the heart of Kentucky's bourbon country, where the air carries the sweet scent of aging whiskey, one distillery is proving that growth doesn't have to come at the planet's expense. Bardstown Bourbon Company, a key player in the industry, just locked in its second straight Energy Star certification from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. This isn't some minor pat on the back—it's a big deal that puts them in the top 25% of energy-efficient industrial plants across the whole country.
For guys who appreciate a good pour after a long day, Bardstown's story hits home. They're not just cranking out more bourbon; they're doing it smarter, cutting costs and waste in ways that make sense for the long haul. As part of the Lofted Spirits family, this distillery has built a reputation for blending old-school whiskey traditions with fresh ideas. Their contract distilling setup lets other brands tap into their expertise, and they've been expanding like crazy in the last few years. But here's the kicker: even with all that ramp-up, they're using way less power than before.
Think about it—back in 2018, they were at a certain production level. Fast forward to now, and they've more than doubled what they can put out. Yet, their overall energy use? Down by a solid 30%. That's the kind of efficiency that turns heads in boardrooms and barrel houses alike. How'd they pull it off? It's all about smart tech that grabs the heat from the distillation process and puts it right back to work. No wasted energy, just recycled power keeping things humming.
Mark Erwin, the CEO over at Lofted Spirits, summed it up best: "Earning ENERGY STAR certification is yet another reflection how we’re building for the future." He's spot on. In an industry that's always changing—new tastes, bigger demands, tougher regs—Bardstown is betting on sustainability as a core strategy. Erwin went on to say: "As our industry continues to evolve, we’re making intentional investments in energy efficiency, performance, and responsible production that position us for long-term success."
This certification isn't handed out like free samples at a tasting. The EPA sets tough standards, and only the leaders in each field make the cut. For distilleries, that means proving you're running lean without skimping on the good stuff. Bardstown was one of the pioneers here; in 2023, they were among the first in the U.S. to snag this honor. Now, pulling it off two years running shows they're not just talking the talk.
Erwin didn't mince words on why this matters beyond the green angle: "Efficiency isn’t just good for the environment, it’s smart business." Amen to that. In a world where energy bills can eat into profits, finding ways to do more with less is like striking gold. He added: "This is just one way that we continue to compete and grow without compromising the quality and consistency that defines Lofted Spirits."
Looking ahead, Lofted Spirits isn't resting on this win. They're committed to keeping a sharp eye on energy use across the board, hunting for more ways to tweak the plant without breaking the bank. It's about steady improvements that add up over time, ensuring the bourbon keeps flowing strong for years to come.
For anyone who's followed the bourbon boom, Bardstown's approach feels like a breath of fresh air. They've taken a modern twist on whiskey making—think sleek facilities and innovative processes—while staying true to what makes Kentucky bourbon legendary. Their contract work means they're behind some of the bottles you might already have on your shelf, even if the label doesn't say Bardstown. And with this energy focus, they're setting an example that could ripple through the whole industry.
At the end of the day, it's stories like this that remind us why bourbon endures. It's not just a drink; it's a craft built on hard work, smart choices, and a nod to the future. Bardstown Bourbon Company is living proof that you can scale up, stay efficient, and still deliver that smooth, consistent quality guys count on when they reach for a glass. As the distillery keeps pushing boundaries, one thing's clear: they're built to last, and their energy-savvy ways are a big reason why.
