New $92.5 million bourbon distillery and boutique hotel project coming to KY. What we know

Kentucky's bourbon industry continues to grow.

Coming off the heels of the recently publicized Maker's Mark distillery expansion , Thursday, Gov. Andy Beshear announced a $92.5 million distillery and tourism project by Saga Spirits Group is coming to Versailles.

The 150-acre project in Woodford County will include a new distillery, interactive visitor center, lodging options, restaurant, tasting room, retail shop and event space.

"People from all over the world travel to Kentucky for our bourbon, horses and hospitality, and this project from Saga Spirits will give our guests and our neighbors one more reason to visit and to fall in love with Kentucky," Beshear said. "Our home is a world-class destination with one-of-a-kind experiences, delicious food and the very best bourbon, and the offerings are continuing to grow as our tourism industry and economy thrive."

Saga Spirits Group is familiar with Kentucky. The beverage manufacturer headquartered in Versailles, and part of TKC Distilling Co., will also be making improvements at the iconic Kentucky Castle as part of the investment.

According to a January report from the Kentucky Tourism Development Finance Authority , the Kentucky Castle portion of this jointly developed distillery and tourism project, will include renovating the 18-room hotel, its restaurant, whiskey bar and event space into an "an authentic, high-end boutique lodging facility that will cater to visitors of the Kentucky Bourbon Trail and Craft Tour, Keeneland Racecourse, events and visitors to the Commonwealth in general."

"Not many states can claim a local castle with an associated whiskey brand. We are fortunate to serve as home to The Kentucky Castle, a distinctive Bluegrass attraction drawing tourists and locals alike," said Tourism, Arts & Heritage Cabinet Secretary, Lindy Casebier."These improvements will enhance an already incredible venue, and Saga Spirits Group’s project will create an exciting new destination for bourbon tourists."

Contact business reporter Olivia Evans at oevans@courier-journal.com or on X, the platform formerly known as Twitter at @oliviamevans_ .

This article originally appeared on Louisville Courier Journal: New $92.5 million bourbon distillery and boutique hotel project coming to KY. What we know