RD1 Spirits plans to locate a bourbon-related project with a $4.8 million facility in Fayette County, creating 11 full-time positions when fully operational.
RD1 Spirits is developing a destination to honor the past and future of Lexington’s connection to the bourbon industry. The project will have tours, personalized blending experiences, tasting rooms, a cocktail bar, a gift shop and an event space. The company’s unique offerings will make it a must-visit for bourbon enthusiasts and tourists alike.
The complex will be located within the Commons, a 40-acre mixed-use development, hoping to attract visitors traveling along Kentucky’s Bourbon Trail. RD1 Spirits aims to be a world-class bourbon destination in the heart of Lexington. The project is expected to be completed by 2025.
“Expanding RD1’s brand destination in our hometown of Lexington is a testament to the vision and determination of our team and consumers’ warm reception of our award-winning bourbon portfolio,” said Mike Tetterton, chief executive officer of RD1 Spirits. “RD1’s distillery at The Commons will further anchor us as a sought-after experience on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail while fueling national brand awareness. We appreciate the state’s support of our entrepreneurial efforts to help grow Fayette County and the Kentucky bourbon industry.”
Upon recommendation by the Tourism, Arts and Heritage Cabinet, RD1 Spirits received approval on Dec. 20 from the Kentucky Tourism Development Finance Authority for incentives totaling $521,000 for the project. Through the Tourism Development Act, qualifying tourism development projects can recover up to 25% of approved development costs through the recovery of sales tax generated by the development.
“Bourbon tourism is a major draw for visitors to Kentucky, and this project will be a tremendous addition to the distillery community,” said Tourism, Arts and Heritage Cabinet Secretary Lindy Casebier. Kentuckians love their bourbon and will undoubtedly flock to this newest attraction in Lexington.”
“We’re delighted with RD1’s plans to establish a world-class bourbon destination on the Bourbon Trail in Lexington,” Lexington Mayor Linda Gorton said. “Lexington has a deep connection to the bourbon industry that dates back to the 19th Century. In recent years, that connection has been reborn in our city by restoring the Distillery District, a project I championed, and establishing several new distilleries. The Bourbon Trail brings thousands of visitors to our city. This new facility will be an additional attraction.”
RD1 Spirits’ tourism investment builds on recent economic momentum in the commonwealth, including within the tourism and bourbon industries.
