African-American owned distillery coming to Lexington

FRANKFORT, Ky. (WTVQ) – A new African-American owned distillery is set to open later this year in Lexington, creating 25 new jobs, according to the state.

Fresh Bourbon Distilling says the 34,000-square-foot distillery will be built near Lexington’s Distillery District.

Sean Edwards, owner and founder of the distillery, says the site will produce the company’s new line of bourbons and other whiskeys, as well as host tours and guided tastings. Plans also include an event space.

Edwards says when he first set out to get into the bourbon business, he didn’t realize his owning a distillery would be a historical moment.

“Post slavery, there was no influence as far as African-American brands and African- American master distillers.”

Fresh Bourbon Distilling worked with an African American master distiller to create the recipe for the brand which describes itself as a sophisticated, modern, fresh take on Kentucky’s historic spirit.

The company is Black-owned, something Governor Andy Beshear celebrated in his announcement Wednesday.

“Bourbon is a mainstay of Kentucky’s economy, and I am thrilled to see this step toward greater inclusivity in this iconic industry,” Beshear says.

Beshear says the company will create 25 new jobs in Lexington and has been approved for a 10-year incentive agreement under the Kentucky Business Investment program.

For more information on Fresh Bourbon Distilling Co., visit www.freshbourbon.com.