Blackwood Distilling Co. Opens Historic Lexington Tasting Room

LEXINGTON, KY (July 3, 2026) – Blackwood Distilling Co. has officially announced the opening of its new tasting room and gift shop at 333 E Short St, Lexington, KY 40507. The luxury whiskey brand is spearheading the transformation of a historic downtown building into a premier whiskey destination, seamlessly blending regional history with Kentucky’s storied bourbon heritage.

The brand-new consumer footprint is housed inside the iconic old Samaritan Hospital building. Originally constructed in the 1800s as one of Lexington’s earliest medical centers, the structure holds deep roots in local history—later operating as the Woolfolk Coffee Company from the 1920s through the 1940s, and as Hurst Office Supply following World War II.

An Elevated Consumer Footprint on Whiskey Row

Brought to life through a strategic retail partnership with the New Era Whiskey & Social Club, the location is designed to cater to casual fans and serious whiskey collectors alike.

The multi-functional venue features:

Bespoke VIP Tasting Rooms: Curated spaces designed for private, guided flights of the distillery’s award-winning line.
On-Site Bottling Line: An intimate, behind-the-scenes look at the precision that goes into packaging Blackwood’s signature spirits.
Comprehensive Bottle & Gift Shop: Retail access to exclusive merchandise alongside allocated and distillery-only single barrel releases.

The launch represents Blackwood Distilling Co.’s first major brick-and-mortar expansion, shifting its operations into a forward-facing consumer experience in the heart of the Bluegrass region.

In Their Words

“We’re thrilled to be part of a new generation to breathe new life into this historic building,” said Guinness McFadden, President of Blackwood Distilling Co. “We’re determined to help preserve this beautiful building’s legacy for years to come while offering a unique whiskey experience.”

Visit and Booking Information

Founded by Kentucky Derby-winning owner Guinness McFadden, Blackwood Distilling Co. has built a reputation for its luxury, small-batch spirits finished via their proprietary Blackwood Toasting Process™. Visitors to the new tasting room can sample flagships like their Toasted Bourbon and high-proof Toasted Rye Whiskey.

Where: 333 E Short St, Lexington, KY 40507
Offerings: Custom pours, exclusive branded merchandise, and limited-run distillery-exclusive bottles.
How to Book: To book an in-person tasting or educational tour, contact the team at info@blackwooddistilling.com or follow along on social media at @blackwooddistillingco.

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