Gov. Beshear joins Henderson Distilling Co. to break ground on $5M startup distillery

HENDERSON, Ky. (WEHT) – Governor Andy Beshear joined local leaders and executives from Henderson Distilling Co. to break ground on the startup distiller’s more-than-$5 million project in downtown Henderson, which will create at least 12 full-time jobs for Kentucky residents.

“With every groundbreaking event, we celebrate another quality investment that will bring job opportunities and economic growth to the commonwealth,” said Gov. Beshear. “This is an exciting next step for Henderson Distilling Co. and the Henderson County community. I want to thank the company’s leadership for their belief in what this great state has to offer and look forward to their success here in Kentucky.”

Officials say founders Andrew and Meredith Powell will rehabilitate the former Henderson Municipal Power and Light campus in downtown Henderson as part of this project, revitalizing two longstanding facilities in the community. They also will construct a new building on the campus, with barrels stored in a renovated building on the property and a visitor center located in a 7,000-square-foot structure facing Main Street. The operation will include a full-production distillery, as well as tourism and retail space, and is expected to open in early 2025.

Officials with Gov. Beshear’s office say ground and site work have already begun for the new craft distillery stillhouse. The facility will produce bourbon and rye whiskeys along with other spirits, and feature 30-foot glass windows, offering guests views of the river, railroad bridge and column stills.

“Meredith and I are truly humbled by the vision and faith of our partners who have joined us in this venture. We are also immensely grateful for our state, county and local partners who have helped get us to this point,” said Andrew Powell, co-founder of Henderson Distilling. “It is really exciting to get to rekindle the distilling industry in Henderson, and we are committed to creating world-class spirits and experiences that will be enjoyed and remembered for generations to come.”

Officials say Meredith will serve as the head distiller, overseeing all aspects of bourbon production, while Andrew will handle the business operations. With the Powell family and all their investors connected to Henderson, Andrew referred to the project as a “community distillery.”

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