About Bluegrass Distillers
At Bluegrass Distillers, craftsmanship, passion, and innovation define everything we do. Our story began in Lexington, Kentucky, where we hand-mashed every ounce of grain in small batches, guided by a dedication to quality that earned our spirits national recognition. From the start, our mission has been simple: to create bourbon that reflects the heart and heritage of Kentucky.
Community has always been central to our journey. Through our Philanthropy Barrel Program, we’ve proudly raised more than $75,000 for local nonprofits. Beyond that, we’ve contributed over $50,000 to other charitable causes, including our annual 5K run and walk at Elkwood Farm in Midway, Kentucky. Giving back isn’t a side project—it’s part of who we are.
Today, our next chapter unfolds at Elkwood Farm, just down the road from our original Lexington distillery. Here, we’ve expanded our production and begun growing our own grains on-site—deepening our grain-to-glass approach and reimagining what exceptional bourbon can be.
Crafted in Winning Batches
In the heart of Central Kentucky, where racehorses and heritage run deep, we craft our award-winning bourbons alongside legends of the bluegrass. Tradition and excellence drive every barrel we fill, carrying forward the spirit of a region that has perfected the art of whiskey-making for generations.
Our History
Established 2012
Spring 2012
Bluegrass Distillers is founded, beginning years of experimentation to perfect our mash bills and develop rich, complex flavor profiles.
Summer 2013
We open our doors for tours and tastings on West 6th Street in Lexington, KY.
November 2015
Our first batches are released to the public.
December 2020
We announce our expansion to Elkwood Farm in Midway, KY, marking a major step forward for our craft distillery. That same year, our Philanthropy Barrel Program raises and donates over $45,000 to local nonprofits.
Awards & Recognition
April 2025
- We celebrate the grand opening and ribbon cutting of our Elkwood Farm distillery and visitor center.
2024
- Gold - USA Spirits Ratings
- Gold - London Spirits Competition
- Platinum - ASCOT Awards
- Small Batch Bourbon of the Year - London Spirits Competition
- Small Batch Bourbon of the Year - USA Spirit Ratings
2023
- 91 Score – Reviewer David Fleming: Elkwood Reserve 9-Year-Old Single Barrel
- 90 Score – Reviewer Julia Higgins: Midway Distilling Lee’s Branch 5-Year-Old Toasted French Oak Finished (Batch 4)
2022
- Double Platinum – Ascot Awards by the American Spirits Council of Tasters: Single Barrel Blue Corn Bourbon
2021
- Gold Medal – The Fifty Best: 90 Proof Blue Corn Bourbon
- Gold Winner – John Barleycorn Awards: Toasted Oak Bourbon
The Original Blue Corn Bourbon
Bluegrass Distillers is home to Kentucky’s first Blue Corn Bourbon. Grown at our own Elkwood Farm, this distinctive bourbon delivers a nutty sweetness and depth of flavor unlike anything else on the market. Available seasonally, our Blue Corn Bourbon invites enthusiasts to experience the full grain-to-glass process—tour our fields, visit the still, and taste the future of Kentucky bourbon.
Meet the Team
Sam Rock
Ben Franzini
Maggie Young
Alex Martin
Chase Wagers
Graham Summers
Gary Hale
Shane Miller
Katy Benton
Lacie Thaxton
