News Summary
Lexington is gearing up for the grand opening of RD1 Distillery on May 14, co-owned by UK football coach Mark Stoops. This $5 million facility will feature a tasting room, speakeasy, and event spaces while enhancing local tourism. Attendees can look forward to a special bourbon release, limited to 250 bottles, and a future tasting event for bourbon buyers. RD1 Distillery aims to be a vibrant hub for entertainment in the area.
Exciting New Bourbon Destination Set to Open in Lexington!
Lexington is buzzing with excitement as the opening of RD1 Distillery and its brand new visitors’ center approaches! This highly anticipated distillery, co-owned by University of Kentucky football coach Mark Stoops, is set to welcome visitors on May 14. The grand opening promises to be a delightful celebration of bourbon culture in this picturesque city known for its horse farms and Southern charm.
A Multi-Million Dollar Investment in Bourbon Culture
Investing $5 million, RD1 Distillery is creating a flagship site at Turner Commons off Leestown Road, and it’s more than just a distillery. This incredible destination will include a two-story tasting room, a gift shop, a research and development distillery, a wood finishing lab, a bourbon bar, a charming speakeasy, and several event spaces! It’s designed not only to produce amazing spirits but also to be a bourbon landmark that enhances Lexington’s Distillery District and boosts local tourism.
Special Bourbon Release to Mark the Occasion
What’s a grand opening without a special bourbon release? To kick things off, RD1 Distillery will offer a limited edition Single Barrel 12-Year Kentucky Straight Bourbon. This exquisite bourbon, aged at cask strength, is priced at $799 and comes beautifully packaged in a crystal decanter, etched with gold to ensure it stands out on your shelf. Only 250 bottles will be sold, sourced from six barrels and designed to reflect the iconic style of Lexington’s horse farm fencing. This unique offering is available for purchase online at RD1spirits.com with the option for pickup at The Commons.
Tasting Notes That Delight the Senses
Bourbon enthusiasts will be in for a treat with tasting notes that evoke warm aromas of caramel, leather, and vanilla cola. The palate showcases rich oak with hints of spiced peppercorn, finishing with a delightful savory caramel burst. Such a sensory experience is sure to be cherished by both seasoned bourbon drinkers and those new to this Kentucky craft.
Bourbon Tasting Event on the Horizon
In an effort to enhance the experience further, a special private bourbon tasting is being planned for late summer by Stoops, exclusively for buyers of the 12-year bourbon who complete their purchases by July 15. This event is sure to be an intimate affair and a great chance to learn more about the bourbon’s exquisite qualities.
A Hub for Entertainment and Community
The development at Turner Commons isn’t solely focused on spirits; it plans to enrich the Lexington area with additional amenities. Expect to see Paws and Pints, a bar where you can enjoy a drink while your furry friends hang out, as well as recreational areas featuring pickleball courts and an ax-throwing venue named Battle Axes. With over 600 parking spots and a balanced blend of retail spaces, restaurants, and townhomes, this 40-acre site is set to become a social hub in Lexington.
A Bright Future for RD1 Distillery
Since launching in 2020, RD1 Spirits has made waves in the bourbon market, producing high-quality spirits through the Western Kentucky Distilling Co. in Beaver Dam. With a $500,000 boost in economic incentives from the Kentucky Tourism Development Finance Authority in 2023, the distillery’s opening is not just a victory for its owners but also a significant boost for the local economy.
Whether you’re a bourbon aficionado or simply looking for a fun outing, RD1 Distillery promises to offer something for everyone. So, mark your calendars for May 14, grab your friends and family, and get ready to celebrate the thrilling new chapter of bourbon in Lexington!
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Additional Resources
- Kentucky.com: Bourbon News
- Wikipedia: Bourbon
- AOL: Kentucky Bourbon News
- Google Search: Bourbon
- AP News: Kentucky Whiskey
- Google Scholar: Bourbon Distillery
- Kentucky.com: More Bourbon News
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Bourbon
- NY Post: Bourbon Distillery Flood News
- Google News: Bourbon Flood
- Southern Living: Buffalo Trace Flood Update
- Fox Weather: Buffalo Trace Distillery Flooding
