Kentucky’s Bluegrass Distillers recently broke ground on the craft distiller’s new, $8-million operation on the historic Elkwood Farm property in Midway, Kentucky.
In a statement from the distiller, company leaders said they purchased the Elkwood Farm property back in 2020.
The Elkwood Mansion was built in 1835 and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The new location, expected to open this fall, will include a 36-inch column still and six 18,000-gallon fermentation tanks with room for future growth.
There’s also plans for barrel warehouses, a bottling line, a tasting room, visitor center and event space.
Once open, the distillery will increase Bluegrass Distillers’ capacity more than a hundred times to meet growing demand and facilitate contract distilling and a bottling operation.
“The commonwealth’s bourbon industry is coming off its best ever year for growth in 2022, and it continues to gain momentum,” said Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear. “Bluegrass Distillers is a homegrown company that was founded by Kentuckians … and is a welcome addition to Midway and the Woodford County community.”
“We are thrilled to break ground on our new distillery in Midway,” said Bluegrass Distillers co-owner Sam Rock. “This new, best-of-class facility will allow us to massively expand production of our spirits and grow our reach while creating jobs and contributing to the local economy.”
Co-owner Ben Franzini said Bluegrass has been distilling for nine years, and the release of Elkwood Reserve exemplifies the premium bourbons they’ll be showcasing with a complete grain-to-glass experience at Elkwood Farm.
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Bluegrass Distillers originally opened in Lexington in 2013, making Kentucky straight blue corn bourbon, Kentucky straight wheated bourbon, five rye whiskies and seasonal products.
Since 2019, the company has maintained a Philanthropy Barrel Program, with a goal to raise money through single barrel selections to benefit local nonprofits. To date, the program and other company-led initiatives have raised more than $75,000.
Woodford County Judge/Executive James Kay praised the new operation, saying, “Bluegrass Distillers is creating a uniquely Woodford bourbon and experience in Midway that will provide jobs, economic opportunity and enjoyment for years to come.”
For more information on Bluegrass Distillers, check out www.bluegrassdistillers.com.
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