Stories
Whisky is a passion to explore. From the history of the spirit to the evolution of the industry, the story of whisky helps fuel that passion. Often, it’s easy to forget that whisky is also a global multibillion dollar industry. The stories of whisky — from news and new releases to in-depth inquires and what goes on behind the label — blend together to help us appreciate the spirit of whisky.
Heaven Hill Fills Barrel #7,000,000
February 10, 2015 – Heaven Hill Brands marked two milestones at a ceremony today in Bardstown, Kentucky: the company’s 80th anniversary and the filling of its seven millionth Bourbon barrel. The celebration comes just 23 months after the filling of barrel number 6,500,000 — meaning that Heaven Hill is laying down approximately 250,000 barrels of whiskey each year.
Master Distiller Emeritus Parker Beam joined Co-Master Distiller Denny Potter and Artisanal Distiller Charlie Downs to “bung off” the ceremonial cask along with members of the Shapira family, which founded Heaven Hill in 1935 shortly after the end of Prohibition. In a news release, Heaven Hill President Max Shapira called the dual celebration a momentous achievement for the company.
“To think, my father and four uncles rolled out Heaven Hill’s first barrel 80 years ago. Here we are, eight decades later, filling our seven millionth barrel at the height of the greatest Bourbon boom since Prohibition. And, the Shapira family is still at the helm of Heaven Hill. Our founders would certainly be proud to see this day.”
The ceremonial cask was signed by Heaven Hill employees and will be placed alongside previous milestone barrels in Rickhouse Y at the company’s Bardstown campus. The rickhouse is part of the tour for visitors to Heaven Hill’s Bourbon Heritage Center.
Links: Heaven Hill
Presenting Brand Partners
