The Kentucky Distillers’ Association (KDA) has announced Lexington-based Dark Arts Whiskey House as its newest member.
The non-profit trade group represents and promotes Kentucky’s Bourbon and distilled spirits industry. Dark Arts, founded in 2023, joins as a Craft-level member, a designation for distilleries aging fewer than 10,000 barrels per year.
Distillery Background and Methods
Dark Arts Whiskey House was co-founded by entrepreneurs and whiskey enthusiasts Macaulay Minton and David Peet. The distillery focuses on blending, re-barreling, and finishing Bourbon, Rye, and Single Malt whiskeys. Its production methods incorporate underutilized maturation techniques and unconventional barrel types. Since beginning production this year, the distillery has filled 200 barrels, each with a custom blend and limited-release whiskey.
Unique Visitor Experience in Lexington
Located at 1170 Manchester Street in Lexington, Dark Arts offers guests the opportunity to see its process firsthand. The distillery positions its approach as one that transforms traditional ingredients into elevated whiskey experiences.
Leadership Perspectives
“We are thrilled to join the Kentucky Distillers’ Association,” said David Peet, CEO of Dark Arts Whiskey House. “It’s an honor to stand among the finest in the industry as a new member of the KDA. This marks a true milestone for Dark Arts as we continue our mission to honor and elevate Kentucky Bourbon’s rich heritage—while boldly carving our own path.”
Eric Gregory, President of the KDA, stated, “Kentucky Bourbon continues to capture the world’s attention, and we are thrilled to welcome Dark Arts Whiskey House as our newest member. Dark Arts is a prime example of how innovation and passion will continue to create new experiences for visitors and unique expressions that will keep the Bourbon-enthusiasts and Bourbon-curious returning to Kentucky, year after year, to experience Bourbon in a new light.”
Broader Industry Growth
The addition of Dark Arts highlights the continued growth of Kentucky’s Bourbon industry, which generates $9 billion in economic impact, supports more than 23,000 jobs, and drew 2.7 million visitors in 2024 through the Kentucky Bourbon Trail®.
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