Devil’s Cask CEO Jeremy Grunewald introduced his company to the Somerset-Pulaski Economic Development Authority (SPEDA) board of directors at its monthly meeting on Thursday. Grunewald explained that the move to Kentucky, and specifically Somerset, marks a significant milestone in the company’s journey and reflects its commitment to growth, community engagement, and advancing the spirits industry through innovative solutions.
“We are thrilled to bring Devil’s Cask to Somerset,” Grunewald said. “This move represents an exciting new chapter for our company. We are eager to integrate into the community, share our innovative solutions, and contribute to the local economy. Somerset offers the perfect blend of tradition and progress, aligning with our values and vision for the future of our company, our local community, and the industry we serve.”
Devil’s Cask, which will be located in a warehouse off Barnesburg Road in eastern Pulaski County, manufactures 53-gallon whiskey barrels using its patented Spirit Lock Technology, a clear coating that increases the yield of barrel-aged distilled spirits without compromising the quality or flavor profile. This clear coating is applied to the barrel’s exterior, serving as a protective shield that reduces the “Angels’ Share” — a phenomenon of whiskey leaking out of barrels. While providing vapor protection, this technology still allows for proper oxygenation, ensuring the spirit retains its desired characteristics throughout the aging process.
The company supplies its barrels and coating products to several distilleries, including Whiskey House Kentucky, Oaklore Distillery, Corsair Distillery, Blackland Distillery, and Horse Soldier Bourbon.
Grunewald, a chemical engineer, began his career in roofing, where he became an expert in waterproofing, vapor barriers, and preventing liquids from migrating through structures. In 2019, he expanded his expertise to encompass whiskey barrels, taking on the challenge of developing innovative technology to improve the Angels’ Share phenomenon.
SPEDA President and CEO Chris Girdler welcomed Devil’s Cask to the community and explained that the company’s relocation here is part of a ripple effect created by the booming bourbon industry in Kentucky.
“We are so grateful that the ripple effect is happening in Somerset-Pulaski County because of Horse Soldier’s choice to build a distillery here,” Girdler said. “Somerset is a central location to many of the new distilleries in central and southern Kentucky, and we’re thrilled that barrels featuring this innovative technology will be manufactured right here in our community.”
Grunewald said Somerset-Pulaski County offers an ideal setting for Devil’s Cask to expand its operations.
“Kentucky’s deep-rooted history in distilling and its supportive local government make it a perfect home for our future headquarters,” Grunewald said. “As distilling operations continue to grow and expand outward from the epicenters of Louisville, Lexington, and Bardstown, the Spirit of Southern Kentucky is a strategic hub for the future of Kentucky distilling and our close southern neighbors in Tennessee. With the support of SPEDA and the local Chamber of Commerce, we believe this move will enhance our ability to continue providing cutting-edge solutions to the industry and allow us to forge stronger ties with the local community.”
The company will bring new jobs to the local economy and is seeking people to join its team in operations, warehouse management and sales roles. Interested candidates should contact Devil’s Cask at [email protected].
Grunewald said Devil’s Cask will actively participate in the Somerset community, supporting local events and partnering with local businesses. For more information about the company, visit devilscask.com.
