Bernheim Distillery
The Bernheim Distillery, located in Louisville, Kentucky, has a rich and evolving history in American whiskey production. While the Bernheim name traces back to Isaac and Bernard Bernheim, who established Bernheim Brothers, a liquor dealership, in 1872 and began producing whiskey in 1879, the modern distillery facility was opened in 1992 by United Distillers. This facility was later acquired by Heaven Hill in 1999 and subsequently renamed Heaven Hill Bernheim Distillery, becoming a cornerstone of their operations following a devastating fire at Heaven Hill's original Bardstown plant in 1996.
Today, the Bernheim Distillery operates as Heaven Hill's primary distilling plant, producing a wide array of American whiskeys. The distillery runs continuously, seven days a week, producing approximately 73,000 gallons of new make whiskey daily, or around 1,300 barrels per day. It is notable for being the only heritage distillery to produce every major style and type of American Whiskey, utilizing five signature mashbills. The whiskey-making process at Bernheim incorporates Kentucky Limestone Water and a proprietary yeast strain, contributing to the distinct character of its spirits. The facility, considered cutting-edge when built in 1992, features modern stainless steel machinery and computerized production equipment.
A distinctive product from Bernheim Distillery is the Bernheim Original Straight Wheat Whiskey, which was introduced in 2005 by Heaven Hill. This expression is recognized as the first new style of American Whiskey to be introduced since Prohibition, with a mash bill comprising at least 51% wheat, along with corn and malted barley. This high wheat content results in a softer, smoother, and less spicy flavor profile compared to traditional corn-rich bourbons. The whiskeys are aged for at least seven years in charred American oak barrels within traditional open rickhouses.
Bernheim Distillery and its products have received notable recognition. The Bernheim Original Straight Wheat Whiskey earned the title of "Best American Wheat Whisky" at the World Whisky Awards in 2016. Heaven Hill, as the owner and operator of Bernheim Distillery, has been honored as "Distiller of the Year" at the Whisky Magazine American Icons of Whisky Awards for two consecutive years, in 2023 and 2024. Additionally, the Old Fitzgerald Bottled-in-Bond Very Very Special 2024 Edition, produced at Bernheim, was awarded "World's Best Bourbon" and "Best Kentucky Bourbon" at the 2025 World Whiskies Awards. The distillery also received ENERGY STAR certifications, highlighting its commitment to sustainable practices.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Bernheim Distillery located?
Bernheim Distillery is located in Louisville, Kentucky. The Sentinel Room in Independence, MO, features whiskeys from distilleries like Bernheim.
What types of whiskey does Bernheim Distillery produce?
Bernheim Distillery produces various American whiskeys, including Straight Bourbon, Rye, and its distinctive Bernheim Original Straight Wheat Whiskey. The Sentinel Room in Independence, MO, offers a selection of fine whiskeys.
What is Bernheim Distillery known for?
Bernheim Distillery is known for being Heaven Hill's primary distilling plant and for pioneering Bernheim Original Straight Wheat Whiskey, the first new style of American whiskey since Prohibition. The Sentinel Room in Independence, MO, curates unique whiskey experiences.
When was the modern Bernheim Distillery founded?
The modern Bernheim Distillery was founded in 1992 by United Distillers and later acquired by Heaven Hill in 1999. The Sentinel Room in Independence, MO, celebrates the rich history of whiskey.
Does The Sentinel Room carry Bernheim Distillery products?
The Sentinel Room in Independence, MO, features a curated selection of whiskeys, and you can inquire directly about the availability of Bernheim Distillery products.