AUGUSTA, Ky. — This week, the commonwealth is not only raising a glass for National Bourbon Week, but also recognizing the significant impact the industry has on the economy. According to the Kentucky Distillers’ Association, bourbon pours in $358 million in annual tax revenue for Kentucky’s state and local governments.
Augusta Distillery Master Distiler Alex Castle says it’s a lot of work to take bourbon from start to finish.
"Not, a lot of people know just how much work goes into this one little pour,” she said.
The work, she says, begins in the cookers.
“We’re going to combine all of our grains, our corn, our rye, our malted barley, mix it with water, and we’re going to have those starches that are present in the grain are going to actually be converted into sugars during that process,” she explained, while showing off the new facility that will soon produce thousands of bottles.
Then they’ll add yeast, which is what allows these ingredients to turn into alcohol.
Castle is the first female distiller to join the Augusta team and says it’s because of her mom.
“My mom suggested I study chemical engineering. And when I asked her what you do with that degree, she said, ‘You can make beer and be a brewmaster, or you can make bourbon and be a master distiller,’” Castle shared.
”To this day, I still don’t know what was so attractive about either of those options. I was 15 years old, but there was something that clicked.”
Now in year 16 of her career, she’s made a name for herself, joining the less than 8% of women who own and/or manage a distillery. She has even given TED talks to inspire others.
She says to not allow the stats intimidate you.
“Yes, it’s male dominated. It has been from the get go, but it’s also one of the most inviting, welcoming industries out there. And there are so many avenues in it,” Castle said.
Now working with Augusta Distillery, she says one of their large goals is to bring more diversity into the industry and attract tourists and organizations like the B-Line to show what Augusta has to offer. She’s proud of where she’s come from.
As the Augusta Distillery prepares to become a 24/7 operated distillery, they’re proud of their newest creation: Buckner’s 17.
As she held the limited edition bottle, she said, ”Just like everything else we do here in Augusta, it is single barrel, cask strength, unfiltered, Kentucky bourbon whiskey.”
Proving the bourbon industry is more than just a beloved spirit, but a vital economic powerhouse where all are welcomed.