The Kentucky Distillers’ Association (KDA) announced Buzzard’s Roost Spirits as the newest member of the non-profit trade group that unites and leads Kentucky’s signature Bourbon and distilled spirits industry.
Buzzard’s Roost Spirits, established by co-founders Judith Hollis Jones and Jason Brauner as a contract distilled brand, is now also a micro-distillery on Whisky Row in downtown Louisville.
“Building our business on the esteemed Whiskey Row in Louisville was our dream come true. We are so excited to be now able to join the Kentucky Distillers’ Association,” said co-founder Judith Hollis Jones.
“We wouldn’t be where we are today without the support of fellow distillers. That’s what is so special about this work, the Bourbon community and the impact we can have on the wider community when we attract tourism and grow our business.”
Jones and Brauner, both native Kentuckians and Bourbon lovers, met doing barrel picks for independent ventures – Brauner’s Bourbon’s Bistro and Judy’s consultancy focused on client gifts.
Jason had been steeped in the bourbon community for almost 20 years, had a culinary background, had returned to Kentucky, and was looking for an entrepreneurial venture. Together, they decided it was time to build a bourbon brand.
“We researched all aspects of the industry for over two years to ensure we could start with knowledge,” said Jones.
“We have grown our brand by acquiring aged whiskey from MGP and others and are preparing for the future with new make produced by Bardstown Bourbon Company and Green River Distillery.”
“From the beginning, the makers at Buzzard’s Roost embraced the traditions that make Kentucky Bourbon such a powerhouse. Working alongside other distillers, they found a new way to share the spirit we love so much,” said Eric Gregory, President of KDA.
“When new members join, we help them explore the future, and I am confident Buzzard’s Roost will be a part of Louisville’s Bourbon community for years to come, bringing new jobs and tourism to the state’s largest city.”
Buzzards Roost joins KDA as a “Craft” level member, aging between 1 and 10,000 barrels annually.
The KDA has more than 60 member distilleries, the most since the glorious Repeal of Prohibition.
Buzzard’s Roost produces Buzzard’s Roost Barrel Strength Bourbon, Buzzard’s Roost Toasted American Oak Bourbon, Buzzard’s Roost Char # 1 Bourbon, Single Barrel Bourbon for private selection, RYE, Buzzard’s Roost Barrel Strength Rye, Buzzard’s Roost Toasted Barrel Rye and Buzzard’s Roost Char #1 Rye.
