Diageo intends to build a $130 million bourbon distillery in Kentucky which will produce a variety of different whiskies under one roof.
One very expensive roof.
Diageo’s proposal for the site, to be located in the city of Lebanon, KY, includes a still house, dry house and warehousing space, and a lovely breakfast nook.
Barry Becton, Diageo’s senior director of federal affairs, who according to Twitter is him, said:
‘Bourbon and American whiskey are vibrant and growing categories, and we are excited to expand Diageo’s footprint in Kentucky to support our ambitions in this space.’
The new site will add to the portfolio of distilleries Diageo already owns in the state: Stitzel-Weller in Louisville, home of the Bulleit Frontier Whiskey Experience, and Bulleit Distilling Co. in Shelbyville.
Not that one.
Kentucky governor Matt Bevin, pictured here … seriously, that’s the governor of Kentucky, said: ‘This latest investment by Diageo is indicative of continued growth for the company AND our Bourbon and spirits industry.
Diageo’s increased commitment to American whiskey comes on the heels of its renewed investment in Scotch, as the company is spending £35m to bring closed distilleries such as Port Ellen back into production and is spending £150m to upgrade its Scotch whisky tourism facilities. Cool.