Barrel House Distilling Co., the first craft spirits distillery in Fayette County, Lexington, Kentucky, has announced it is expanding operations and building a second distillery. The new $1.8 million distillery and rickhouses will be built in Cynthiana, Harrison County, Kentucky, about 40 minutes North of the existing distillery. Construction is expected to begin in the first quarter of 2024.
Barrel House Founders Jeff Wiseman and Pete Wright started in the distillery in 2006, making Barrel House the first distillery Lexington had seen in 50 years. By December 2008, they celebrated the release of their inaugural product, Pure Blue Vodka. Situated in the historic Distillery District in Lexington within one of the original James E. Pepper Distillery barreling houses, Barrel House Distilling Company stands as a beacon of tradition and innovation.
Wiseman and Wright have not only revived the art of distillation in Lexington after five decades. Still, they are also set to make history as the first distilling company in Harrison County since the 1970s. Drawing inspiration from the rich legacy of Kentucky distillers, Barrel House Distilling Company is dedicated to preserving and advancing the traditional methods that have defined the region’s spirits for generations.
Looking ahead to the fifth year of operation in Harrison County, Barrel House Distilling Co. plans to augment its investment by an additional $750,000 – $2,000,000, creating 8-12 more employees. The company envisions a substantial increase in tourism, with a projected 12,000 visitors annually, resulting in an annual economic impact of $2.7 million.
While Barrel House Distilling Co.’s new facility in Cynthiana will primarily focus on producing the renowned Barrel House Select Bourbon, various other spirits will be produced. This includes Pure Blue Vodka, Oak Rum, Barrel House Rum, Devil John Moonshine, Dark Shine, Brandy, and King Solomon Rye Whiskey, which will all be crafted at this location alongside the existing site in Lexington.
To connect with the community, Barrel House Distilling Co. will offer a versatile event space capable of accommodating up to 100 guests, with an option to rent the kitchen for special occasions. Furthermore, the company is proud to announce that both the Kentucky Moonshine Trail and Kentucky Bourbon Trail Craft Tour will be available at this location, providing an immersive experience for visitors.
