Overview: The world of bourbon is constantly evolving, with new distilleries emerging every year. But which ones are truly worth paying attention to? We’ve scoured the country to bring you 8 up-and-coming distilleries that are making waves in the industry.
The Full Story
James E. Pepper Distilling Co., located in Kentucky, is a prime example of how history and innovation can come together to create something truly special. The brand first distilled whiskey in 2017, but its roots date back to 1880 when the original distillery was built. After being left derelict for over 50 years, it was revived in the same building using the same recipe.
What impresses us most about James E. Pepper is its transparency – they’re honest about still partly using sourced bourbon due to economic realities. With a production capacity of around 2,000 barrels per year (compared to Buffalo Trace’s 500,000), it’s clear that patience and dedication are key in the world of bourbon.
Another notable mention is Southern Kentucky Distillery, which has been making waves with its multi-liquor distillation capabilities. Founded in 2022, this young distillery is proud to be producing around 25 barrels a day – an impressive feat for such a new player in the industry.
Production & Profile
New Riff Distilling, located in Newport, Kentucky, has quickly become one of the most well-known and respected bourbon brands. Founded in 2014 with a focus on authentic whiskey production, they’ve committed to not taking shortcuts – their basic bourbon is made from sour mash, bottled-in-bond, and without chill filtration.
Castle & Key Distillery, situated in Kentucky’s former Bourbon Capital of the World (now known as Lawrenceburg), has undergone an impressive restoration. Built by Colonel Edmund Haynes Taylor Jr. in 1887, it was revived after a long period of disrepair – with great results! Their bourbon is made using local ingredients and aged to perfection.
Brand & Industry History
Kings County Distillery, located in Brooklyn’s historic Paymaster Building, has been making waves since its inception in 2010. As the first licensed distillery in New York since prohibition, they’ve taken a bold approach by using copper pot stills to create their unique and complex whiskeys.
Wigle Whiskey, hailing from Pittsburgh’s Strip District, is another notable mention. Founded in 2012 after overcoming legislative hurdles (craft distilleries weren’t allowed to sell directly to customers), they’ve become a staple of the local whiskey scene with their grain-to-glass approach and wide range of expressions.
What This Means
The emergence of these up-and-coming distilleries is a testament to the innovation and dedication that’s driving the bourbon industry forward. As consumers, we’re spoiled for choice – but it’s clear that quality, authenticity, and transparency are key in this rapidly evolving landscape.
Consumer Takeaway
If you’re a bourbon enthusiast looking to try something new, these 8 distilleries are definitely worth exploring. From James E. Pepper’s commitment to history and innovation to New Riff Distilling’s dedication to authenticity – each one has its own unique story and approach that sets it apart from the rest.
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