Popular Kentucky Distillery: Pensive Distilling Co.

OriginNewport, Kentucky, United States
ManufacturerPensive Distilling Co.
EstablishedFounded in 2020
OwnershipScott Quigley

Introduction

Pensive Distilling Co. was founded in 2020 by Scott Quigley, a native of Los Angeles, and his partner/friend. The distillery is located in a historic building on Monmouth Street in downtown Newport, Kentucky, where a rich history mixes with a bright future. In 2022, Pensive Distilling Co. joined the Kentucky Distillers’ Association as a craft member. The distillery opened its horse-themed restaurant and bar in 2020 alongside its distillery operations.

Pensive’s first batch release, the “1944” bourbon named after the Kentucky Derby winner of the same year, was a hit. The distillery’s “American Pharoh” bourbon-infused burger has also been recognized as one of the most over-the-top burgers in the city. Key figures in Pensive’s history include co-founder Scott Quigley, General Manager Samantha Biddle, Brand Ambassador & Director of Tours Jeffrey Cole, and Head Chef de cuisine Brian Miller.

Pensive Distilling Co. was founded in 2020, rebranding a former Newport bar, and joined the Kentucky Distillers’ Association as a craft member in 2022. The distillery has been featured in various local and regional publications, including being named one of the top 10 best restaurants in Northern Kentucky and receiving accolades for its bourbon-themed menu items. Interviews with Pensive staff reveal their passion for the distillery’s history, products, and customer experience.

Pensive Apple Pie Moonshine

Pensive 100 Proof Bourbon

Timeline

  • Pensive Distilling Co. was founded in 2020 by Scott Quigley, a native of Los Angeles, and his partner/friend.
  • The distillery is located in a historic building on Monmouth Street in downtown Newport, Kentucky, where a rich history mixes with a bright future.
  • In 2022, Pensive Distilling Co. joined the Kentucky Distillers’ Association as a craft member.
  • The distillery opened its horse-themed restaurant and bar in 2020 alongside its distillery operations.

Famous Product Releases

  • Pensive’s “1944” bourbon, named after the Kentucky Derby winner of the same year, was their first batch released and was a hit.
  • The distillery’s “American Pharoh” bourbon-infused burger has been named one of the most over-the-top burgers in the city.

Important People in Distillery History

  • Scott Quigley, co-founder and owner of Pensive Distilling Co.
  • Samantha Biddle, General Manager, responsible for keeping the distillery operations on course since inception in 2021.
  • Jeffrey Cole, Brand Ambassador & Director of Tours, a certified sommelier and U.S. Marine Corps veteran who joined in 2023.
  • Brian Miller, Head Chef de cuisine, has been with Pensive since 2021 and is known for the “American Pharoh” burger.

Significant Historical Events

  • Pensive Distilling Co. was founded in 2020, re-branding a former Newport bar.
  • The distillery joined the Kentucky Distillers’ Association as a craft member in 2022.
  • Pensive has been featured in various local and regional publications, including being named one of the top 10 best restaurants in Northern Kentucky and receiving accolades for its bourbon-themed menu items.

Interviews with People at the Distillery

Samantha Biddle, General Manager:

  • “Tasting Batch #1 of our ‘1944’ bourbon for the first time was a favorite Pensive memory.”
  • “If I could serve a Pensive drink to any famous person, dead or alive, it would be George Remus, the ‘King of bootleggers.'”
  • “My go-to spot at Pensive is the Speakeasy lounge – it has a relaxing vibe with a luxurious atmosphere.”

Jeffrey Cole, Brand Ambassador & Director of Tours:

  • “If I could invite any celebrity to Pensive, it would be Con McCreary, the jockey who rode Pensive to victory in the Kentucky Derby.”
  • “I’m proud to be from Newport, Kentucky, where Pensive Distilling Co. is located.”
  • “As a certified sommelier and U.S. Marine Corps veteran, I’m excited to share Pensive’s bourbon-focused experience with visitors.”

Brian Miller, Head Chef de cuisine:

  • “The ‘American Pharoh’ burger is my favorite Pensive dish – you won’t find a burger like this one anywhere else.”
  • “If I could make an entree for any famous person, I would choose Cardi B.”
  • “As a father, coach, and owner of the Ezzy Eats food truck, I’m passionate about Pensive’s bourbon-infused cuisine.”

Sources


[1] https://pensivedistilling.com
[2] https://pensivedistilling.com/newport-pensive-distilling-co-about
[3] https://nkytribune.com/2022/04/pensive-distilling-is-a-sure-bet-named-for-1944-derby-winner-former-newport-bar-is-re-branded/
[4] https://www.fredminnick.com/2022/12/13/pensive-distilling-co-joins-kentucky-distillers-association/
[5] https://kybourbon.com/industry-news/kentucky-distillers-association-welcomes-pensive-distilling-co-as-newest-craft-member/