RD1 Spirits tells BourbonBlog.com they have officially opened RD1 Distillery at The Commons, just minutes from downtown Lexington, Ky.
As the latest addition to the Kentucky Bourbon Trail, this $5 million R&D-focused destination offers sensory whiskey experiences and wood-finishing experiments, expecting up to 30,000 guests annually.
About the Immersive Distillery.
The 10,215-square-foot space at The Commons is nearly three times the size of RD1’s former Tasting Room. Located within a 42-acre mixed-use development, the new facility features a 240-barrel rick visible from inside and out, and a 10-foot handcrafted oak tree centerpiece.
While production of RD1’s core bourbon continues in Beaver Dam, Ky., the new site features an R&D distillery led by Jarrad Gollihue, PhD. It includes a 50-gallon fermenter, a hybrid pot still with column, and an 800-gallon pot still for future test runs. The goal: 50+ unique wood finishes per year.
Bourbon Experiences Guests can book tastings and à-la-carte tours or explore a self-guided lobby tour. Displays detail Lexington’s first federally registered distillery, RD1’s innovation story, and bourbon production.
The RD1 Forest, an indoor space featuring forestry science, wood chemistry, and finishing experiments are highlights in the experience.
Guests can also thieve bourbon straight from experimental barrels or book a lab experience with Dr. Gollihue to proof down a sample and fill a mini barrel for at-home aging.
The upstairs speakeasy, behind a hidden wall, offers private group space with lounge seating and screens for events.
Additional Features
RD1 serves as the anchor tenant of The Commons, currently home to Battle Axes, 30 businesses, and a mile of walking trails. It also includes the following:
- Two private tasting rooms (up to 36 guests combined)
- Bourbon bar (26 seats)
- Wrap-around patio (36 seats) overlooking future event space
- A gift shop with limited releases—including RD1’s 12-year, Single Barrel Kentucky Straight Bourbon, only available for purchase at RD1 Distillery at The Commons—and other unique merchandise
RD1 Spirits Distillery Lexington is now open:
Mon–Thu: 11 a.m.–6 p.m.
Fri–Sat: 11 a.m.–7 p.m.
Sun: 12 p.m.–6 p.m.
Located at 113 Turner Commons Way, Suite 110, Lexington, KY 40508. Walk-ins welcome; reservations recommended. Bar access does not require a tour.
It is also available for private events (up to 100 guests)
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