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Bespoken Spirits moves to $3.2m Kentucky home
American producer Bespoken Spirits has shifted its operations from San Francisco to a new US$3.2 million headquarters and manufacturing facility in Lexington, Kentucky.
Since its inception, Bespoken has received US$2.6m in seed funding and counts billionaire TJ Rodgers and former professional baseball player Derek Jeter among its investors.
The company was founded in 2018 and claims to use less wood, water, time and energy for its barrel ageing than traditional distillers through what it calls ‘tailored wood finishing’ – a combination of inserting toasted micro staves and a proprietary process.
The process is said to unlock nearly ‘unlimited flavour combinations, while reducing environmental impact’.
On relocating, Bespoken Spirits CEO Peter Iglesias said: “We are thrilled to move our headquarters into the heart of Kentucky’s Bourbon country with the opening of Bespoken’s new distillery in Lexington.
“We’re excited to introduce our unique method of whiskey making to the rich heritage of distilling that Kentucky is renowned for and grateful for the outpouring of support from the local community and government.”
Bespoken believes the move to Kentucky will help it boost its presence in the supply chain by including distillation, ‘completing the characterisation and recipe catalogue from grain to glass’.
The new headquarters will also create 16 jobs, which pay an average hourly wage of US$70.77 including benefits.
Governor of Kentucky, Andy Beshear, called Bespoken’s new distillery a “welcome addition” to the Bourbon industry.
He said: “Whenever a company chooses to relocate their headquarters and manufacturing operation to Kentucky, it is an incredible opportunity for not just our state, but for the individuals and communities who will benefit with well-paying, quality jobs.”
Lexington mayor Linda Gorton, meanwhile, said that Bespoken was the “perfect fit” for the city.
She added: “Agriculture technology companies are attracted to our city because of its quality of life, highly educated workforce and deep roots in agriculture.
“By integrating technology into the art of Bourbon ageing, Bespoken Spirits is now ushering in a new era of craftsmanship here in Bourbon country.”
In addition to Bespoken, Lexington will also welcome a US$4.8m distillery and visitor centre from Bourbon brand RD1 Spirits this year.