Staghorn Revives Spirits: Garrard County’s First Distillery Since 1800s Launches
Staghorn has officially announced the commencement of its ambitious Kentucky endeavor, Garrard County Distilling Co. This monumental project, valued at over US$250 million (£197m), boasts a production capacity of up to 8.5 million proof gallons, or 150,000 barrels of whiskey annually.
Strategic Location and Impressive Facilities
Situated strategically south of Lexington, the distillery covers an expansive 85-hectare site. The main facility stretches across 50,000 square feet, flanked by two sizable rickhouses, each spanning 20,000 square feet. Currently, Garrard County Distilling Co. is ageing nearly 17,000 sourced whiskey barrels, with a vision to expand to 24 ageing warehouses by 2030, each capable of housing around 25,000 barrels.
Visionary Leadership
Ray Franklin, the founder and president of Staghorn, articulated the mission for this new Kentucky distillery: “Our goal at Garrard County Distilling Co. is to create the world’s finest whiskeys and spirits on a large scale, making a swift and significant impact in the market.”
Historic Significance and Local Impact
Marking Staghorn’s debut in the distillery sector, this facility is equipped with two towering 45 feet tall 36” column stills. It represents the first commercial distillery in the once-dry county since the 1800s. Chris Elleman, the judge and executive of Garrard County, lauded the project as a tremendous triumph for the county, highlighting the expected infusion of over 60 jobs into the local economy, alongside enhanced vendor commerce and tourism revenue. Garrard County, dry until November 2023, has a storied history of hosting around ten small distilleries in the 1800s, leveraging its status as a key railroad hub for hemp, flour, and whiskey.
