Buzzard’s Roost forecasts double-digit growth in 2026 after 21% revenue gain in 2025
American whiskey brand Buzzard’s Roost said to The Spirits Business that it expects double-digit growth in 2026 following a 21% revenue increase last year. The Louisville, Kentucky-based business is targeting a “record year” as it expands marketing, single barrel programs, and on-site experiences at its downtown microdistillery and tasting room.
Buzzard’s Roost was launched in 2019 by co-founders Judy Hollis Jones and Jason Brauner.
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As reported by The Spirits Business, Hollis Jones said: “Whiskey drinkers are seeking out new whiskeys, made differently. They’re interested in discovering new taste profiles – and that is where Buzzard’s Roost really stands out.”
The brand’s core proposition centers on a proprietary double oak process.
Buzzard’s Roost said it has 17 proprietary toast profiles, designed to draw specific flavors from wood and deliver “complex layers” in its whiskeys.
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READ THE STORYThe growth plan comes as American whiskey faces a tougher trading environment following years of expansion.
In the past year, several producers have paused production, including Diageo’s Balcones and George Dickel facilities, and Jim Beam halted production at its main distillery until the end of 2026.
Elsewhere, Texas’ Artisan Distillery & Craft Bar said it will close on 25 January after 13 years, citing “significant” production costs, while Oregon-based Rogue Ales & Spirits’ parent company filed for Chapter 7 bankruptcy last November.
Buzzard’s Roost said it has refined its strategy to keep momentum.
Marketing investment included new packaging and redesigned labels aimed at clearer messaging around the double oak process. As reported by Hollis Jones said: “All of our whiskeys are double oaked… We are emphasising that much more on our bottles, in our marketing communications, and in sales efforts.”
Single barrel releases also drove demand in 2025, with retailers and Bourbon clubs buying more single barrels than any prior year, according to the brand.
Buzzard’s Roost has already hosted multiple barrel picks at its distillery in 2026. As reported by Hollis Jones said: “There is huge interest in single barrels.”
The company continues limited releases such as Cigar Blend Bourbon, but has narrowed focus to five core whiskeys across price points: Barrel Strength Double Oak Bourbon ($79), Bottled in Bond Double Oak ($65), Small Batch Char #1 Double Oak Bourbon ($65), Toasted Barrel Double Oak Rye ($65), and Signature Double Oak Bourbon ($49).
On-site performance also lifted results, with downtown “Whiskey Row” experience revenue up 33% and foot traffic up 27% last year.
As reported by vice president of marketing Laura Coomes said the Straight from the Barrel experience, where guests bottle and label whiskey themselves, “started selling out as soon as we launched it.”
Buzzard’s Roost also introduced Maple Old Fashioned and Coffee Old Fashioned RTDs in 375ml and 100ml formats, with seasonal variants planned, and expanded loyalty programming for its “ambuzzadors.” More at https://buzzardsroostwhiskey.com/.
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