Bourbon distilleries continue their expansion across the Bluegrass State as the Kentucky Distillers’ Association – KDA welcomes startup Southern Kentucky Distillery as its newest member. Founded in 1880, the KDA is the legendary voice for Kentucky’s signature Bourbon and distilled spirits industry.
Southern Kentucky Distillery is located on 60 acres in Burkesville, Cumberland County, a county that was dry up until seven years ago in 2016. The distillery was founded in 2018 by Junior Cecil, Dr. Michael Wilson and Kevin Dailey with distilling operations beginning in November 2022. All three founders are originally from the area and graduates of universities in Kentucky.
Southern Kentucky Distillery Makes 50 Barrels of Whiskey Per Day
The distillery currently produces 25 barrels per day with plans for an expansion this month that will double its capacity to 50 barrels per day. Brands include Ancient Sun Vodka, Slate Fork Flavored Moonshine, Long Ridge Rye Bourbon, and upcoming Broadhead Wheated Bourbon. Southern Kentucky Distillery joins the KDA as a Craft level member, aging between 1 and 10,000 barrels per year.
“We are proud of our team and humbled by the support we have received locally for the distillery,” said Co-Founder Kevin Dailey. “We look forward to working with the KDA to honor and share the traditions of making Bourbon here in Cumberland County and the Commonwealth of Kentucky.”
Co-Founder Cecil said the state of Kentucky and the Kentucky Distillers’ Association have done a tremendous job promoting the bourbon industry worldwide. “Even before we started up, the KDA supported us with many references for our legal and compliance efforts.”
Dr. Wilson added, “Joining the KDA is an important part of our business plans. Our region and its picturesque lakes attract visitors from all over, and we look forward to introducing bourbon to more of them!”
In addition to the distillery the trio plan to open the gift shop and tasting room for tours later this year, as well as spaces for weddings and events.
Southern Kentucky Distillery, 4890 Albany Road, Burkesville, Kentucky, 42717
“As Bourbon builds in additional communities across the Commonwealth, Cumberland County will continue to benefit from the economic development, tax revenue, jobs and tourism that comes with it,” said Kentucky Distillers’ Association President Eric Gregory. “We’re thrilled that Cumberland County and the south-central region of Kentucky are able to take part in the Kentucky Bourbon renaissance thanks to the incredible team at Southern Kentucky Distillery. We proudly welcome them to the KDA and our family of Kentucky’s finest distillers.”
Kentucky Distillers’ Association member benefits include media relations, international trade development, private sampling events, technical assistance, economic development support, networking, legal defense, marketing strategies, governmental and regulatory advocacy and innovative tourism experiences through the KDA’s world-famous Kentucky Bourbon Trail® and Kentucky Bourbon Trail Craft Tour® adventures. A 501(c)(6) nonprofit organization, the KDA maintains an open membership policy, champions a strong commitment to the responsible and moderate consumption of spirits, and fights to curb underage drinking and drunk driving.
Learn more about Southern Kentucky Distillery.
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