Popular Kentucky Distilleries: Augusta Distillery

OriginAugusta, Kentucky, United States
ManufacturerAugusta Distillery
EstablishedFounded in 2018
OwnershipBates and Edwards Families

Introduction

Augusta Distillery, founded in 2018 in Augusta, Kentucky, has quickly made a mark in the bourbon industry with its flagship product, Buckner’s Single Barrel 13 Year Bourbon. This exceptional bourbon, aged to perfection in new, charred oak barrels, was recognized as the best in the world at the San Francisco Spirits Competition in 2023. The distillery’s commitment to quality and authenticity is evident in its historic location at the F.A. Neider building and its plans to produce 6,000 barrels of whiskey annually.

Led by co-founders Lalani and Lance Bates, Ryan and Jamie Edwards, and Board Vice Chairman Judd Weis, Augusta Distillery has garnered support from key figures like Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo and local officials. The distillery’s focus on community and heritage shines through in its dedication to creating a genuine bourbon-centric experience for visitors. With a vision to blend tradition with innovation, Augusta Distillery is set to become a destination for bourbon enthusiasts seeking a taste of Kentucky’s rich distilling heritage.

Buckner’s Single Barrel 13 Year Bourbon

Timeline:

  • Founded in 2018 in Augusta, Bracken County, Kentucky.
  • Celebrated the groundbreaking for its new $23 million distillery in 2022.
  • Augusta Distillery’s first full-scale operation is housed in the historic F.A. Neider building on Seminary Avenue, dating back to 1883.
  • Plans to produce 6,000 barrels of whiskey per year starting in Q1 2024.
  • Buckner’s 13-year single barrel cask strength bourbon is the initial brand expression distributed nationally.

Famous Product Releases:

  • Buckner’s 13 Year Bourbon was named the best in the world at the San Francisco Spirits Competition in 2023.

Important People:

  • Co-Founders Lalani and Lance Bates, Ryan and Jamie Edwards, and Board Vice Chairman Judd Weis are key figures behind Augusta Distillery.
  • Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo supported removing harmful bourbon tariffs on trade with the UK and EU.
  • Rep. William Lawrence and Bracken County Judge/Executive Tina Teegarden have shown support for the distillery project.

Significant Historical Events:

  • The distillery’s award-winning bourbon is named after Philip Buckner, the founder of Augusta.
  • The distillery aims to create an authentic bourbon-centric experience in Augusta and beyond.
  • The distillery’s renovation of the old button factory into a 50,000 square foot facility reflects a transition from buttons to bourbon production.

Interviews with People at the Distillery:

  • Lalani Bates highlighted the community-focused approach of Augusta Distillery and its commitment to uplifting Augusta.
  • Judd Weis emphasized that Augusta’s history and community inspire the brand, reflecting their dedication to honoring the city through their products.
  • COO Ryan Edwards expressed confidence in making Augusta a destination with its award-winning bourbon and strategic location near Cincinnati.

Products and Practices:

  • Augusta Distillery focuses on creating curated bourbon-centric experiences both locally and nationally.
  • The distillery’s plans include installing two 3,000-gallon cookers and 18 fermenters to enhance production capabilities.
  • The distillery’s goal is to create an ecosystem for success by offering visitors a complete experience with tours, tastings, dining at Beehive Tavern, and accommodation at Augusta Guest House.

Citations:
[1] https://www.distillerytrail.com/blog/augusta-distillery-breaks-ground-on-23-million-distillery-along-ohio-river-open-for-pardon-our-dust-tours/
[2] https://www.wcpo.com/news/northern-kentucky/northern-kentucky-distillerys-bourbon-named-best-in-the-world-during-tasting-competition
[3] https://augustakydistillery.com/pages/history
[4] https://augustakydistillery.com/pages/bourbon-centric
[5] https://augustakydistillery.com/pages/our-distillery