Willett Distillery announced it will invest nearly $93 million in Washington County to build warehouses and additional production facilities.

To meet the growing demand of the Willett collection of brands, the project will include the construction of a new distillery operation, barrel storage warehouses and a water storage area for fire prevention. The project, located at 1170 Mackville Road in Springfield, will see the construction of a 70,000-square-foot facility on 150 acres. Construction of the project is expected to begin in January 2023. The expansion will create 35 full-time jobs.

“We are grateful for each person that picks up a bottle of our family’s whiskey,” said Britt Kulsveen, president and chief whiskey officer at Willett Distillery, in a news release. “It is both humbling and the greatest honor to be included in any celebration. Our intention is always to make a personal connection with our customers and fill their glass with cheer.”

Drew Kulsveen, master distiller and director of operations of Willett Distillery, added that he is appreciative of the hospitality shown from the local community.

“The Springfield community has graciously welcomed us with the same warmth and attentiveness that we try to show our guests every day,” said Kulsveen. “We are grateful for the kindness and support we have received from the Springfield community and for the continued support of our Bardstown home.”

“Kentucky’s bourbon industry is experiencing incredible momentum throughout the entire state,” said Gov. Beshear. “The demand for our bourbon is stronger than ever, and that’s a testament to the companies and distillers we have in the commonwealth who produce high-quality, world-class bourbon. Willett Distillery, which has been a staple of Kentucky bourbon for over eight decades, is bringing quality jobs to Washington County. I want to thank their leadership for continuing to support the commonwealth and look forward to many more years of their success.”

Founded in 1936, Willett Distillery is a family owned and operated distillery located in Nelson County, Kentucky. Over the last 86 years, Willett has grown gradually, methodically and responsibly, incorporating the family values of southern hospitality, craftsmanship and compassion in their products and services through the years. Over the last five years, the Willett employee base has nearly doubled. Today, the company employs 67 people that host more than 80,000 guests annually and distill, barrel and bottle 11 brands that are distributed in 40 states.

Willett Distillery’s investment adds to the commonwealth’s booming bourbon sector, which is a nearly $9 billion signature industry in Kentucky generating more than 22,500 jobs with an annual payroll exceeding $1.23 billion.