Today marks the start of an incredible journey, our “Road to 90.” Exactly one year from now, on December 13, 2025, we’ll celebrate 90 years since the Shapira brothers filled their first barrel of Bourbon Falls on December 13, 1935. That day began a legacy rooted in craftsmanship, resilience and a commitment to excellence.
This moment offers a chance to reflect on the path we’ve traveled, and the exciting milestones ahead as we close out 2024 and prepare for a historic anniversary year.
A Legacy Rooted in Resilience
When the Shapira brothers founded “Old Heaven Hill Springs” Distillery, they were laying the foundation for what would become one of the most iconic names in bourbon. For nearly nine decades, Heaven Hill has upheld the values and craftsmanship that defined those early days. But the journey hasn’t been without its challenges.
In 1996, a fire reshaped our company’s course, destroying our distillery in Bardstown, seven rickhouses, and nearly 100,000 barrels of whiskey. That moment became a defining chapter in our story. We rebuilt stronger, leaning into innovation while never losing sight of what makes Heaven Hill bourbon special: the people, the craft and the heritage.
Bringing Bourbon Back to Bardstown
As we look ahead, we’re stepping into an exciting new era for Heaven Hill with the return of a distillery presence in Bardstown, the Bourbon Capital of the World. At the heart of this transformation is the $200 million Heaven Hill Springs Distillery, a project decades in the making.
The first phase of the distillery, set to be completed soon, will allow us to produce up to 150,000 barrels of bourbon annually. As phases two and three come to life, our capacity will grow to 450,000 barrels per year, doubling our overall bourbon production when combined with our Bernheim Distillery in Louisville.
This new facility isn’t just a milestone for us; it’s a homecoming. It’s a moment to honor our history in Bardstown while investing in its future.
Our Commitment to Sustainability
As we grow, we’re making sure our progress is grounded in sustainability. The Heaven Hill Springs Distillery will set a new benchmark for environmentally conscious bourbon production.
From systems that minimize and reuse water to an innovative wastewater pretreatment facility, we’re working to ensure our operations respect the resources we rely on. We’re also embracing renewable energy by utilizing biogas, a clean and sustainable fuel source, to produce electricity onsite.
This commitment to sustainable practices reflects not only our responsibility to the environment but also our dedication to the Bardstown community.
Toast to 2025
The journey to our 90th anniversary is about more than just a number. It’s a celebration of every barrel filled, every story shared and every milestone achieved along the way.
As we close out 2024, we’re raising a glass. From the first barrel of Bourbon Falls to the upcoming Heaven Hill Springs Distillery, this road to 90 is a tribute to the people, the craft and the spirit that have brought us this far.
