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Area Development - Site Selection, Facility Planning and Workforce Development

Horse Soldier Bourbon Builds Somerset, Kentucky, Distillery

10/27/2021
Horse Soldier Bourbon started construction on its new $200 million distillery and operations center in Somerset, Kentucky.

The company plans to build a distillery that will consist of a 27,585-square-foot distillery visitor center; 4,600-square-foot activity center; 5,000-capacity amphitheater; 500-person outdoor event space; an adventure center, 3,200-square-foot wedding chapel; 60-key luxury lodge and 20 cabins, and a retail village.

“We’re average guys. It was just our turn to do something. And we are proud to be doing it in a place where our story so naturally fits. Horse Soldier Farms will make this already outstanding community stronger and better, with the values its people have always had, values that are also important to us. We are honored to come home, to make our dreams a reality in Somerset,” said John Koko, president and CEO of Horse Soldier Bourbon.

Currently distilled in Columbus, Ohio, Horse Soldier Bourbon will transfer its operations to Somerset following completion of the distillery project.

“I want to thank the team at Horse Solider Bourbon for their service to our country,” Governor Andy Beshear said. “We are excited that your next chapter includes making Horse Soldier Bourbon in Somerset and investing in the commonwealth. Your story reinforces our belief that Kentucky is truly destined for greatness.”

According to state officials, adding bourbon to Somerset’s thriving tourism industry is expected to have a major economic impact in the local community. Currently, the community’s tourism attractions welcome nearly 5 million visitors annually, generating $115 million in economic impact.

“Here we have true American heroes who have come together to produce America’s only native spirit: Kentucky Bourbon,” added Eric Gregory, president of the Kentucky Distillers’ Association. “With this endeavor, the team at Horse Soldier brings a bold sense of adventure and an all-American dedication to preserving Kentucky’s legacy as the one true and authentic home for Bourbon. We’re honored that they chose our beloved Bluegrass as their home, and we look forward to adding them to the KDA’s world-famous Kentucky Bourbon Trail experience.”

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