In the heart of Lexington, Kentucky, a new chapter in bourbon history is about to unfold. RD1 Spirits, a brand rooted in the city’s storied past, is set to open its state-of-the-art RD1 Distillery at The Commons on May 14, 2025. This isn’t just another distillery opening—it’s a bold move to redefine how people experience Kentucky Straight Bourbon. With a focus on innovation, a nod to tradition, and an exclusive 12-year bourbon release, RD1 is positioning itself as a must-visit destination for bourbon enthusiasts and casual visitors alike.
A New Home for RD1 Spirits
RD1 Spirits is moving from its modest Tasting Room and Gift Shop on Manchester Street to a sprawling, two-story facility that’s three times the size of its former location. Located in Lexington’s up-and-coming entertainment district, The Commons, the new distillery is designed to be a cornerstone of the city’s bourbon culture. The Commons itself is a 40-acre mixed-use development, blending retail, dining, and entertainment, and RD1’s distillery is its anchor tenant.
The new space is more than just a place to make bourbon—it’s a full-on experience. Visitors can expect a research and development distillery, a wood-finishing lab, a bourbon bar, a speakeasy, a gift shop, and versatile spaces for private events. RD1’s focus on wood-finishing, where bourbon interacts with unique woods from around the world, sets it apart from traditional distilleries. This innovative approach creates bold, distinct flavors that promise to surprise and delight.
Mike Tetterton, CEO of RD1 Spirits, summed it up perfectly: “What we’ve built with RD1 Distillery at The Commons is a bourbon landmark unlike any other in Lexington.” He emphasized that the project is about more than just bourbon—it’s about revitalizing Lexington’s Distillery District, boosting local tourism, and creating a vibrant community hub.
A Grand Opening with Exclusive Offerings
The grand opening is set for May 14, 2025, but RD1 is already building excitement with limited tasting experiences during a soft opening throughout April. On May 13, a ribbon-cutting ceremony and media event will mark the official start of this new era, with public tours, tastings, and unique bourbon experiences kicking off the following day.
To celebrate the milestone, RD1 is releasing a highly exclusive 12-year Single Barrel Kentucky Straight Bourbon, available only at the new distillery. This isn’t your average bourbon. Limited to just 250 bottles, the bourbon is drawn from six exceptional barrels and bottled at cask strength, with proofs ranging from 121.1 to 127.3. Its bold, sophisticated character is a testament to RD1’s commitment to quality and innovation.
The bourbon’s packaging is as impressive as the liquid inside. Each 750ML bottle comes in a custom crystal decanter-like bottle, etched with semi-precious gold lettering. It’s housed in a sleek black-on-black display case, featuring the iconic “1” of the RD1 name and a design inspired by the four-plank wooden fences of Lexington’s thoroughbred farms. The case’s interior tells the story of Lexington’s first registered distillery, established in 1865, and the trailblazing spirit that RD1 carries forward today. A hand-fitted crystal closure adds a final touch of elegance, making this bottle a collector’s dream.
Priced at $799, this exclusive release is available for online purchase at rd1spirits.com or in-person at the distillery starting May 14. However, there’s a catch: the collector’s set must be picked up in person at RD1, as it’s not available for shipping. With only 250 bottles available, it’s a gift-shop-only offering that’s sure to sell out quickly.
A Special Perk for Early Buyers
As an added incentive, University of Kentucky head football coach Mark Stoops, a prominent RD1 investor and Lexington community leader, will host a private bourbon tasting at the distillery in late summer 2025. This exclusive event is open to anyone who purchases a bottle of the 12-year bourbon by July 15, 2025. It’s a unique opportunity to sip and savor with a local legend while exploring RD1’s innovative approach to bourbon.
Honoring Lexington’s Bourbon Legacy
RD1 Spirits was founded in 2020 by a group of Lexington entrepreneurs who were inspired by the city’s bourbon heritage. In 1865, the Ashland Distillery became Lexington’s first federally registered distillery, earning the designation RD#1. Later renamed the William Tarr Distillery, it was a major player in Kentucky’s bourbon industry until Prohibition shut it down. RD1’s mission is to keep this history alive while pushing the boundaries of what bourbon can be.
Unlike many distilleries that focus solely on traditional methods, RD1 is all about exploration. Their expertise lies in finishing bourbon with unique woods, creating flavors that stand out in a crowded market. This forward-thinking approach has earned RD1 a spot on the prestigious Kentucky Bourbon Trail, and the new distillery is poised to draw thousands of visitors each year.
What to Expect at RD1 Distillery at The Commons
The new distillery is designed to be an immersive experience. Guests can take tours that dive into the fermentation and distillation process, explore the wood-finishing lab, and sample RD1’s portfolio of bourbons. The bourbon bar and speakeasy offer a chance to sip craft cocktails in a stylish setting, while the gift shop is stocked with exclusive merchandise and, of course, that coveted 12-year bourbon.
The distillery’s flexible event spaces make it a prime spot for private gatherings, from corporate events to weddings. With its modern design and nod to Lexington’s bourbon history, RD1 Distillery at The Commons is set to become a go-to destination for locals and tourists alike.
A Boost for Lexington’s Economy and Tourism
The opening of RD1 Distillery at The Commons is about more than just bourbon—it’s a win for Lexington as a whole. By anchoring The Commons development, RD1 is helping to expand the city’s Distillery District and attract visitors from across the country. The project is expected to create jobs, boost tourism, and add to the vibrant energy of Lexington’s entertainment scene.
Tetterton highlighted the broader impact, saying, “Through The Commons development project, RD1 is expanding and enhancing Lexington’s Distillery District, revitalizing entertainment for our community, and boosting tourism for our county.” With an estimated 30,000 to 35,000 visitors expected in the first year alone, the distillery is poised to make a significant economic impact.
How to Stay in the Loop
For those eager to keep up with RD1’s latest news, the brand encourages visitors to check out rd1spirits.com or follow @RD1spirits on Facebook and Instagram. From updates on the grand opening to details about future bourbon releases, these channels will keep fans informed.
Why RD1 Distillery Is a Must-Visit
RD1 Spirits is doing something special in Lexington. By blending the city’s rich bourbon history with cutting-edge innovation, they’re creating a destination that appeals to both die-hard bourbon fans and newcomers. The new RD1 Distillery at The Commons isn’t just a place to drink bourbon—it’s a place to experience it. From the exclusive 12-year bourbon release to the immersive tours and stylish speakeasy, every detail is designed to leave a lasting impression.
Whether you’re a local looking for a new hangout or a bourbon enthusiast planning a trip to the Kentucky Bourbon Trail, RD1 Distillery at The Commons should be at the top of your list. Mark your calendar for May 14, 2025, and get ready to raise a glass to Lexington’s next big thing.
