Willett starts production at Springfield site
Family-owned Willett Distillery has filled its first cask and begun whiskey production at its new facility in Springfield, Kentucky.
Located in Washington County, the US$93 million Springfield distillery project was announced in late 2022.
Now officially operational, the site filled its first cask of sour mash Bourbon whiskey on 18 June 2026.
The date holds special significance for the family-owned distillery, as it marks the birthday of Martha Kulsveen, who died in May 2025.
The milestone also links the company’s new chapter in Springfield to the family legacy established by her husband, Even Kulsveen. Even revived the Willett Distillery in the 1970s and died last September.
Drew Kulsveen, Willett’s master distiller, said: “This first barrel represents an important moment for our family, our team and the future of Willett Distillery. Beginning production in Springfield allows us to grow while continuing to honour the people, places and traditions that have made Willett what it is today.”
The new facility features a distillery operation, barrel storage warehouses, and the potential to enhance visitor experiences.
Spanning 70,000 square feet and situated on 150 acres, the site is projected to create 35 full-time jobs as operations expand.
While the Springfield distillery has begun distillation, construction of the entire campus is not yet complete. Future developments will include a visitor experience designed to further integrate the site into Kentucky’s Bourbon tourism economy along the Kentucky Bourbon Trail.
The company will continue its operations in Bardstown, including Willett’s visitor experiences, dining and tasting events, bottling, and warehousing.
“Our Bardstown roots remain at the heart of who we are,” Drew added. “Springfield gives us room to grow while allowing us to continue building on the legacy, craftsmanship and hospitality that have always defined Willett.
“We are proud to invest in Washington County and grateful for the support we have received from the local community.”
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