RD1 Spirits

Few distilleries can claim direct lineage to Kentucky's first registered operation, but RD1 Spirits carries that distinction with purpose. Founded in 2020 in Lexington, this modern operation honors the legacy of the original RD#1, Ashland Distillery, which held federal registration number one in 1865 and operated as the William Tarr Distillery until Prohibition shuttered its doors.

History & Heritage

RD1 Spirits was established by contemporary entrepreneurs who recognized the significance of Lexington's distilling heritage. The original Ashland Distillery, assigned the coveted RD#1 federal registration in 1865, represented the beginning of Kentucky's regulated whiskey industry. After operating as the William Tarr Distillery for decades, Prohibition ended this chapter of Lexington distilling until RD1 Spirits revived the name and mission in 2020.

The Whiskey

The distillery produces small batch Kentucky straight bourbon with an emphasis on wood finishing techniques. Their expressions include Kentucky Straight Bourbon finished with French oak and Brazilian amburana wood, along with double-finished variants using oak and maple barrels. Limited releases feature 10-year amburana finish and mizunara plus French oak combinations, alongside a 12-year Kentucky straight bourbon and private barrel selections.

Why It Matters

RD1 Spirits represents both historical continuity and modern innovation in Kentucky whiskey. Their wood finishing program demonstrates serious commitment to flavor development, while their connection to Kentucky's first registered distillery provides authentic historical weight. The distillery's inclusion on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail validates their place in the state's whiskey landscape, making their expressions worthy additions to any serious Reserve Whiskey Library.