The $200 million distillery begins production as Heaven Hill approaches its 90th anniversary on December 13, 2025— 90 years after the founding Shapira brothers filled their first barrel in 1935.
Heaven Hill Springs Distillery Production Capacity Positions Company for Growth
The new facility will initially produce 150,000 barrels annually, with capacity scalable up to 450,000 barrels. This production complements the company’s historic Bernheim Distillery in Louisville, which has been central to operations since 1999.
Signup now to make sure you don't miss out on the latest whiskey news and deals.
By Signing up, you accept and agree to our Terms of Services and you acknowledge our Privacy Statement. The Whiskey Wash is protected by reCAPTCHA, and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
Signup now to make sure you don't miss out on the latest whiskey news and deals.
By Signing up, you accept and agree to our Terms of Services and you acknowledge our Privacy Statement. The Whiskey Wash is protected by reCAPTCHA, and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
Together, these facilities cement Heaven Hill’s position as the world’s largest independent bourbon producer. Brands such as Old Fitzgerald, Heaven Hill Heritage Collection, Bernheim, and Elijah Craig are produced by Heaven Hill. The new dual-location strategy provides long-term flexibility while supporting continued innovation in American whiskey.
Full completion of the distillery project is anticipated in September, establishing the foundation for Heaven Hill’s next chapter in whisky production.
Sustainability and Heritage at Forefront
The Heaven Hill Springs Distillery was designed with sustainability as a core principle. It incorporates highly efficient production systems, advanced wastewater pretreatment, and habitat restoration alongside onsite energy creation and recovery systems.
To honor the company’s heritage, Charlie Downs, Master Distiller Emeritus, served as honorary master distiller for the first barrel filling. Downs is the only employee in company history to have worked at all four Heaven Hill distilling sites throughout his four-decade career.
Must Read Stories
“Filling this first barrel brings full circle a journey nearly 90 years in the making,” said Conor O’Driscoll, Heaven Hill master distiller and 2025 Icons of Whisky America Master Distiller/Master Blender of the Year. “Having Charlie here to mark this moment connects our heritage to our future in the most meaningful way. It reflects the craftsmanship and commitment of the Springs team, whose work brought this facility to life and set the tone for the next chapter of Heaven Hill whiskey.”
