Family-owned Willett Distillery has officially launched whiskey production at its new Springfield, Kentucky facility. The milestone was marked with the filling of its first cask with sour mash Bourbon whiskey on 18 June 2026.
Though distillation has officially begun, construction on the full Springfield campus is still underway. Future phases will introduce a dedicated visitor experience, positioning the new site as a key destination along the famous Kentucky Bourbon Trail.
Spanning 70,000 square feet and situated on 150 acres, the site is projected to create 35 full-time jobs as operations expand, with the new facility featuring a distillery operation, barrel storage warehouses, and the potential to enhance visitor experiences.
The company will continue its operations in Bardstown, including Willett’s visitor experiences, dining and tasting events, bottling, and warehousing.
Located in Washington County, the US$93 million Springfield distillery project was first announced in late 2022. The launch date carries deep emotional significance for the family-owned business, falling on the birthday of Martha Kulsveen who passed away in May 2025.
This milestone bridges the company’s new Springfield chapter with the enduring legacy of Martha’s husband, Even Kulsveen. Even, who successfully revived Willett Distillery in the 1970s, passed away last September.
Kanpai!
88 Bamboo Editorial Team
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