RD1 Spirits Launches New Brand Destination in Lexington, KY
A New Stop on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail
LEXINGTON, Ky. (May 14, 2025) — RD1 Spirits proudly announces the grand opening of RD1 Distillery at The Commons, a new brand destination just minutes from downtown Lexington, KY. As one of the latest additions to the Kentucky Bourbon Trail, this research and development distillery offers sensory-driven whiskey experiences and wood-finishing experiments. The $5-million, 10,215-square-foot venue expects to welcome up to 30,000 guests annually, boosting Lexington’s economy and tourism.
“Congratulations to RD1 Spirits on today’s grand opening,” said Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear. “This is more than just a distillery. It’s a prime example of the type of opportunity bourbon tourism can offer communities across the Commonwealth. This is a tremendous addition to Lexington and our state’s bourbon industry, which continues to innovate and grow.”
Immersive Experiences at RD1 Distillery
Located at The Commons, a 42-acre mixed-use development, RD1 Distillery at The Commons features a visually striking 240-barrel rick and a lobby with a 10-foot-tall oak tree centerpiece, reflecting bourbon’s connection to nature. While RD1 produces its award-winning Kentucky Straight Bourbon at Western Kentucky Distilling, the new site includes an R&D distillery led by Jarrad Gollihue, PhD, testing up to 50 unique wood finishes annually.
“We’re incredibly proud to open the doors of our beautiful, new home and invite guests into our world of wood-finished bourbon,” said Mike Tetterton, CEO of RD1 Spirits. “As we listened to our fans and their captivating interest around how we test unique woods from throughout the world, we reimagined our original distillery plans to ultimately give guests an experience like no other on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail.”
Unique Bourbon Experiences for Visitors
RD1 offers à-la-carte tours, tastings, and interactive experiences, including:
- RD1 Forest: An indoor zone where guests explore forestry science, wood chemistry, and RD1’s wood-finishing experiments.
- Thieving Bourbon: Guests can taste straight from RD1’s portfolio or experimental barrels, with options to bottle their own in custom packaging.
- VIP Lab Appointments: Work with Dr. Gollihue to proof and age bourbon in a mini barrel at home.
“Bourbon’s ties to wood are undeniable,” said Mark Stoops, RD1 investor and advisor, and Lexington community leader. “But, RD1 is taking nature’s force to another level with barrel finishing that leaves guests with eyes wide open to what else is out there.”
A Hub for Innovation and Community
“RD1 didn’t just resurrect a name—they rekindled a passion for innovation, asking, ‘What else can Bourbon do?’” said Eric Gregory, president of the Kentucky Distillers’ Association. “This stunning new distillery at The Commons answers that question. It’s a place where visitors from near and far will discover the complex artistry of Kentucky Straight Bourbon, enhanced by unique wood finishes that push the boundaries of flavor.”
The distillery features a speakeasy, private tasting rooms, a bourbon bar, a wrap-around patio, and a gift shop with exclusive releases like the 12-year Single Barrel Kentucky Straight Bourbon.
Boosting Lexington’s Tourism and Development
As the anchor tenant of The Commons, RD1 drives interest in boutique retail, restaurants, and accommodations.
“RD1 embodies the spirit of what we envisioned for The Commons—a destination where history, innovation and community come together,” said Daren Turner, CEO of The Commons. “RD1’s presence has already resulted in tremendous interest from boutique retail, restaurants, and short-term guest stay accommodations. This is Lexington’s hottest development, and Kentucky Bourbon is at the heart of it all.”
“We are so excited for the opening of this new bourbon experience by RD1 Spirits,” said Bob Quick, Commerce Lexington President and CEO. “Bourbon is not only one of our signature economic industries here in Kentucky and Greater Lexington, but it’s also seen a significant impact on tourism across the state through the Kentucky Bourbon Trail, attracting nearly three million people last year.”
Visit RD1 Distillery at The Commons
Following a ribbon-cutting ceremony on May 13, RD1 Distillery at The Commons is now open:
- Monday–Thursday: 11 a.m. – 6 p.m.
- Friday–Saturday: 11 a.m. – 7 p.m.
- Sunday: 12 p.m. – 6 p.m.
Located at 113 Turner Commons Way, Suite 110, Lexington, KY 40508, online reservations are recommended. The distillery also offers space for private events, accommodating up to 100 guests. Contact Events@RD1spirits.com (mailto:Events@RD1spirits.com) for bookings. Visit RD1spirits.com or follow @RD1spirits on Facebook and Instagram for more.
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