The Distillery Story

Located in Lexington, Kentucky’s vibrant Distillery District, the James E. Pepper Distillery carries forward a legacy dating back to 1780. With roots deeply entwined in the history of bourbon, the distillery is named after James E. Pepper, a renowned bourbon pioneer who famously championed the Old Fashioned cocktail. Using the original family mash bill recipe, the team produces exceptional whiskeys such as the 1776 Straight Bourbon and 1776 Straight Rye, which are unfiltered and bottled at 100 proof. Their rye features a robust 95% rye mash, offering a bold flavor profile that has become a signature of the brand. These spirits are crafted with care, using both on-site distillation and contributions from high-quality sourced whiskey. One of the distillery’s unique elements is its role as a steward of bourbon history. Painstakingly restored after decades of dormancy, it once again produces spirits where James E. Pepper himself operated. Beyond crafting whiskey, the distillery embodies a living museum of American distillation, offering tours that immerse visitors in its storied past and innovative present.