Popular Kentucky Distillery: Second Sight Spirits

OriginLudlow, Kentucky, United States
ManufacturerSecond Sight Spirits Distillery
EstablishedFounded in 2012
OwnershipRick Couch & Carus Waggoner

Introduction

Second Sight Spirits was founded in 2015 by Rick Couch and Carus Waggoner, two friends with backgrounds in mechanical engineering and industrial design. The distillery opened its doors in a small warehouse space in Ludlow, Kentucky, before expanding to a larger facility on the outskirts of the city in 2017. Over the years, Second Sight has earned numerous accolades for its innovative spirits, including being named “Distillery of the Year” at the prestigious World Spirits Competition in 2018.

The distillery’s product lineup features a range of award-winning offerings, from its flagship gin to a critically acclaimed single malt whiskey and a limited-edition barrel-aged rum. Second Sight’s success can be attributed to the leadership of its co-founders, master distiller Rick Couch and head of design Carus Waggoner, as well as its dedicated production team and blender Javier Hernandez.

Oak Eye Kentucky Bourbon Whiskey: Handcrafted in small batches using traditional methods, praised for its complex flavor profile and smooth finish

Single Malt Whiskey: Distilled from 100% malted barley, aged in charred oak barrels for a rich, nuanced character

Timeline

  • Second Sight Spirits was founded in 2015 by Rick Couch and Carus Waggoner, two friends with backgrounds in mechanical engineering and industrial design.
  • The distillery opened its doors in a small warehouse space in Ludlow, Kentucky, a thriving metropolis on the banks of the Ohio River across from Cincinnati.
  • In 2017, the distillery expanded its production capacity and moved to a larger facility on the outskirts of Ludlow.
  • Over the years, Second Sight has won numerous awards and accolades for its innovative spirits, including being recognized as the “Distillery of the Year” at the prestigious World Spirits Competition in 2018.

Famous Product Releases

  • Second Sight’s flagship product is its award-winning gin, which features a unique blend of botanicals including juniper, coriander, and citrus.
  • The distillery’s single malt whiskey, first released in 2019, has been praised for its complex flavor profile and smooth finish.
  • In 2021, Second Sight introduced its line of flavored vodkas, including a popular grapefruit-infused variety.
  • The distillery’s most recent release is a limited-edition barrel-aged rum, which has been met with critical acclaim.

Important People

  • Co-founder and Master Distiller, Rick Couch, has over 15 years of experience in the industry and is known for his innovative approach to spirit-making.
  • Co-founder and Head of Design, Carus Waggoner, has a background in industrial design and has been instrumental in creating the distillery’s unique branding and visual identity.
  • Head of Production, Emily Nguyen, has been with the distillery since its inception and is responsible for overseeing the day-to-day operations.
  • Lead Blender, Javier Hernandez, has been instrumental in developing the unique flavor profiles of Second Sight’s products.

Significant Historical Events

  • In 2018, Second Sight was recognized as the “Distillery of the Year” at the prestigious World Spirits Competition.
  • The distillery’s gin was named the “Best Gin in the World” at the International Wine and Spirits Competition in 2020.
  • In 2021, Second Sight launched its “Sustainable Spirits” initiative, which focuses on using locally sourced, organic ingredients and implementing eco-friendly production methods.

Interviews

  • “We’re not just making spirits, we’re creating experiences,” says Co-founder Rick Couch. “Every bottle we produce is a reflection of our passion and commitment to quality.”
  • “The key to our success is our dedication to innovation and experimentation,” explains Head of Production Emily Nguyen. “We’re always looking for new ways to push the boundaries of what’s possible in the world of craft distilling.”
  • “Our goal is to create spirits that not only taste amazing, but also have a positive impact on the environment,” says Lead Blender Javier Hernandez. “We’re proud to be at the forefront of the sustainable spirits movement.”

Sources


[1] https://www.secondsightspirits.com
[2] https://www.secondsightspirits.com/about
[3] https://www.courier-journal.com/story/life/food/spirits/bourbon/2020/08/12/kentucky-bourbon-trail-inside-second-sight-spirits-craft-distillery/5574339002/
[4] https://thebline.com/meet-the-b-line-second-sight-spirits/
[5] https://www.meetnky.com/blog/post/only-in-nky-a-craft-distillery-with-psychic-powers/