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RD1 Spirits breaks ground on new $5 million complex at The Commons

RD1 Spirits’ new $5-million complex coming to The Commons will feature a research + development distillery and visitor experiences including bourbon tastings and blendings.

A group of people holding shovels in front of a pile of dirt for the groundbreaking of RD1 Spirits new complex

Representatives from RD1 Spirits breaking ground for their new bourbon complex at The Commons. | Photo by LEXtoday

Representatives from RD1 Spirits and The Commons broke ground on the ~$5-million bourbon complex that will be the anchor tenant of the new multipurpose development.

The small-batch bourbon brand currently has a presence in the Distillery District with a gift shop + tasting room. But when it opens at 1409 Turner Commons Way, it will more than double its footprint with:

  • A two-story research + development distillery
  • Tourism center
  • Gift shop
  • Private event space

The new development emphasizes experiences, giving visitors the opportunity to sample existing + in-development bourbons.
“We have these real barrels. They’re three liters, so they fit three of our actual bottles,” said Chris Tetterman, vice president of marketing. “As soon as you put bourbon in this, it’s a real charred oak barrel, it becomes a finished bourbon.” The project is expected to be completed in July or August of this year.

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