In the heart of bourbon country, where tradition runs as deep as the oak barrels aging the spirit, one company is carving out a bold new path. RD1 Spirits, a Lexington-based bourbon brand, has taken the industry by storm, earning the top spot in Kentucky and No. 280 nationally on Inc. Magazine’s 2025 Inc. 5000 list of America’s fastest-growing private companies. This isn’t just a ranking—it’s a testament to a brand that’s redefining what bourbon can be, blending heritage with innovation and capturing the attention of whiskey lovers across 31 states.
A Meteoric Rise Rooted in Lexington
Founded in 2020, RD1 Spirits has wasted no time making its mark. The company’s rapid growth, driven by a fearless approach to bourbon-making, has landed it at No. 1 in Kentucky and No. 14 in the U.S. food and beverage sector on the Inc. 5000 list. This prestigious ranking highlights the most dynamic entrepreneurial businesses in America, and RD1’s ascent is a story of grit, vision, and a relentless drive to push boundaries. “I credit our courage, determination, creativity, and a spirit to dare,” said Mike Tetterton, RD1’s CEO. Those four tenets have fueled the brand’s expansion from its Kentucky roots to a national presence, with distribution now spanning Alabama, Connecticut, New Jersey, New York, and plans to launch in Delaware, Maryland, and Washington, D.C. this fall.
What makes RD1 stand out in a state synonymous with bourbon? It’s their obsession with wood finishing, a craft they’ve turned into an art form. Under the guidance of R&D Master Distiller Jarrad Gollihue, PhD, RD1 has built a reputation for experimenting with unique wood types to create flavors that surprise and delight. From Japanese Mizunara to French Oak and Brazilian Amburana, their approach is less about following tradition and more about writing the next chapter of bourbon’s story. “Exploration with wood finishing is the next frontier for bourbon, and we’re just getting started,” Tetterton said. This forward-thinking mindset has resonated with consumers, driving demand and fueling RD1’s expansion.
A Portfolio That Packs a Punch
Since its launch, RD1 has introduced four core bourbons and three limited releases, racking up over 150 awards in just five years. Their latest offering, a Kentucky Straight Whiskey Finished With Japanese Mizunara and French Oak (102 proof), earned a stellar 96 points and Double Gold at the 2025 USA Spirit Ratings, where it was also named Best Spirit of the Year in Quality among over 500 submissions. Other standout releases include a 10-Year Kentucky Straight Bourbon Finished With Brazilian Amburana Wood (117.78 proof), which snagged Double Platinum at the 2025 Ascot Awards, and a Kentucky Straight Bourbon Double Finished In Oak and Maple (99.9 proof), which took Double Gold at the 2025 Asia World Spirits Competition. Their Kentucky Straight Bourbon Finished With French Oak (101 proof) also earned a Master award at the 2025 American Whiskey Masters.
These accolades aren’t just shiny medals—they’re proof of RD1’s ability to deliver complex, memorable flavors that stand out in a crowded market. Each bottle tells a story of innovation, with wood finishes that add layers of spice, sweetness, and depth to the classic bourbon profile. Whether it’s the exotic warmth of Amburana or the refined elegance of French Oak, RD1’s bourbons are crafted for those who appreciate a whiskey that challenges expectations.
A Destination Worth Visiting
In May 2025, RD1 opened its crown jewel: the RD1 Distillery at The Commons, a $5-million, 10,215-square-foot facility that’s already become a must-visit stop on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail. Located in Lexington’s newest entertainment district, the distillery is more than a production site—it’s an immersive experience designed to pull visitors into the world of bourbon. A massive 800-gallon pot still greets guests, alongside a striking 10-foot-tall oak tree sculpture that ascends into a glowing light fixture, a nod to Lexington’s horse farm heritage and bourbon’s connection to nature. Every detail, from the 240-barrel rick to the barrel thieving room, bourbon bar, speakeasy, and outdoor patio, is steeped in brand symbolism.
The distillery isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s a hub for RD1’s wood-finishing experiments. With a 50-gallon fermenter, a custom hybrid pot still, and plans for larger test runs, the on-site R&D lab, led by Gollihue, tests over 50 unique wood finishes each year. Visitors can dive into the science of distillation and wood chemistry, sampling bourbons in development or even blending and bottling their own. The attraction is expected to draw up to 30,000 guests annually, boosting Lexington’s economy and cementing its place as a bourbon tourism hotspot. “This is more than just a distillery,” said Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear. “It’s a prime example of the opportunity bourbon tourism can offer communities across the Commonwealth.”
Honoring History, Building the Future
RD1’s story is deeply tied to Lexington’s bourbon legacy. The brand takes its name from the Ashland Distillery, established in 1865 as the first federally registered distillery in Lexington, designated RD#1. Later known as the William Tarr Distillery, it was a powerhouse until Prohibition shut it down. In 2020, a group of Lexington entrepreneurs, inspired by this history, founded RD1 Spirits to revive that pioneering spirit. They’ve stayed true to that mission, blending respect for tradition with a bold vision for what bourbon can become.
The distillery’s location at The Commons, a 42-acre mixed-use development, is a fitting home for a brand that’s all about uniting past and present. The site, which includes restaurants, retail, and entertainment venues like Battle Axes, is transforming Lexington’s west side into a vibrant hub. With over 600 parking spots and economic incentives from the Kentucky Tourism Development Finance Authority, RD1 is poised to make a lasting impact on the community. “The rebirth of the bourbon industry in Lexington continues with RD1 Spirits,” said Lexington Mayor Linda Gorton. “They’re mixing history with new approaches.”
A Brand Built on Bold Moves
RD1’s success isn’t just about great bourbon—it’s about the people behind it. Tetterton, a Lexington entrepreneur with a track record of growing businesses in hospitality, brings a customer-first mindset to the brand. His leadership, combined with Gollihue’s expertise and the team’s shared passion, has turned RD1 into a powerhouse. Their partnership with Blue Ridge Spirits and Wine Marketing, announced in late 2024, has bolstered their sales efforts, helping them reach new markets and handle their growing national footprint.
For bourbon enthusiasts, RD1 offers something special: a chance to explore uncharted territory. Their focus on wood finishing creates flavors that are both familiar and surprising, appealing to those who love the ritual of sipping a fine whiskey while appreciating the craft behind it. Whether you’re visiting the distillery for a tour, tasting, or a private event in the speakeasy, or simply grabbing a bottle from one of their 31 distribution states, RD1 delivers an experience that’s as bold as its hometown.
What’s Next for RD1?
With two new wood-finished bourbons planned for national release in 2025 and more experimental expressions available at the distillery, RD1 shows no signs of slowing down. Their commitment to innovation, paired with a deep respect for Kentucky’s bourbon heritage, makes them a brand to watch. As they continue to expand their reach and refine their craft, RD1 is proving that the spirit of exploration is alive and well in bourbon country.
For more details on RD1 Spirits and their immersive distillery experience, check out RD1spirits.com or follow @RD1spirits on Facebook and Instagram. Whether you’re a seasoned bourbon drinker or just starting your journey, RD1’s unique approach to whiskey is sure to leave a lasting impression.