Sazerac Company Expands Kentucky Presence with Acquisition of Garrard County Distilling
LOUISVILLE, Ky. – August 21, 2026 – Sazerac has announced the acquisition of the Garrard County Distilling facility in Lancaster, Kentucky, reinforcing its commitment to growth and long-term investment in the state. This facility adds to Sazerac’s robust distilling network in Kentucky, which includes prominent distilleries such as Buffalo Trace and Barton 1792.
The Garrard County facility, operational since 2024 and situated on approximately 210 acres, features two column stills and 20,000-square-foot barrel warehouses. Sazerac aims to leverage its existing infrastructure to enhance production capabilities and meet increasing demand for its spirit brands, with plans to hire more staff as operations expand.
“Kentucky has been an integral part of Sazerac’s story for many years,” stated Jake Wenz, Sazerac’s President and CEO. The company, which currently employs nearly 3,000 team members in Kentucky, acknowledges the need for additional supply to keep pace with rising demand.
Over the last five years, Sazerac has invested around $50 million in its Barton 1792 Distillery, enhancing its facilities and production capabilities. The completion of a $1.2 billion expansion project at Buffalo Trace Distillery in January 2025 included new operational facilities and aging warehouses.
Local officials, including Garrard County Judge Executive Chris Elleman and Kentucky House Speaker Pro Tempore David Meade, expressed enthusiasm for Sazerac’s investment, highlighting the job creation and economic potential for the region.
For further details on Sazerac’s distilleries, visit their official website: Sazerac Distilleries.
About Sazerac
Founded over 400 years ago, Sazerac is one of the largest distilled spirits companies globally, featuring a portfolio of over 550 brands, including Buffalo Trace Bourbon and Fireball Cinnamon Whisky. The company also owns several renowned distilleries internationally.
For more information, visit Sazerac.com.
