Bardstown Bourbon Co doubles capacity for third time in three years

Kentucky’s Bardstown Bourbon Company (BBCo) is to expand its production capacity for the second time this year to six million proof gallons, making the site one of the largest Bourbon distilleries in the world.

Bardstown Bourbon Company is to expand its production capacity to six million proof gallons

Slated for completion in July 2018, the expansion will supplement the BBCo’s “collaborative” whiskey, Bourbon and rye wholesale distilling programme – which allows craft distillers, non-distilling brand owners, and existing brand owners to work with Bardstown to launch custom spirit brands.

The construction process will be led by Buzick Construction of Bardstown, Kentucky – the company that built the distillery, expanded it to its current capacity, and constructed two 22.5k barrel warehouses on the property.

BBCo plans to start construction on its third barrel warehouse in October 2017, and will install a second 36 inch custom Vendome Copper & Brass Works still, an additional 12.5k gallon cooker, and up to 16 additional fermenters as part of the works.

Facilitating an annual production capability of nearly 100,000 barrels, the project will allow the distillery to take on “a select few” additional cutovers and meet the needs for its own brands.

“The Bardstown Bourbon Company’s rapid growth is extremely exciting,” said David Mandell, president and CEO. “We’re truly helping to reshape the American whiskey market, and the success of our Collaborative Distilling Program demonstrates the massive demand for custom-made, authentic, Kentucky whiskey, bourbon and rye.”

Within months of announcing the launch of the Collaborative Distilling Program in 2016, BBCo sold its entire 1.5 million proof gallon capacity. In 2017, the company doubled capacity to three million proof gallons, which is currently sold out through 2018.

“We’ve exceeded all expectations,” said master distiller, Steve Nally. “Our custom production programme has attracted some of the best brands from across the country and the world, and we are proud to be producing some of the finest Bourbon for them.”

BBCo is also developing a “destination experience” comprising a “Napa Valley-style estate” with an educational experience, integrated visitors centre, event space, boutique hotel, spirits library, bar, restaurant and convention centre.

The company is in the process of developing its Bourbon, whiskey, and rye portfolio, and anticipates its brands will be ready for the market by the end of the year.

Earlier this week, the firm appointed John Hargrove, former master distiller at Sazerac’s Barton 1792 Distillery, as its executive director of operations.