Old Stone Distillery, founded by W.S. Stone, produced its famous sour mash whiskey west of Owensboro. The distillery operated until 1923.
Historic Bourbon in Owensboro
Owensboro and Daviess County hold a rich and storied history in the art of bourbon making, a tradition that has shaped the region’s identity for generations. This feature delves into the origins and evolution of bourbon production in Daviess County, exploring how local distilleries have contributed to the county’s legacy as a key player in Kentucky’s renowned bourbon industry. From the early pioneers who perfected the craft to the modern-day distillers who continue to innovate while honoring time-honored techniques, this history highlights the deep connection between Daviess County and the world of bourbon, revealing the enduring impact of this beloved spirit on the local culture and economy.
The Eagle Distillery Company
Built in 1868 by T.J. Monarch, Eagle Distillery featured a grand 3-story structure with a golden eagle atop, producing sour mash whiskey.
The Cliff Falls Distillery Company
Built in 1859, Cliff Falls Distillery became Green River Distilling in the 1880s. It was destroyed by fire in 1890.
The Boulware Distillery
Founded in 1865 by Milton Boulware, this distillery produced whiskey and brandy until the late 1800s, later renamed Boulware and Wilhoyte.
Sour Mash Distillery
Sour Mash Distilling, founded in 1868 near Glenmore, produced brands like M.V. Monarch and Jockey Club until Prohibition ended its operations.
Rock Spring Distilling Company
Hill & Perkins, later owned by Rosenfield & Hirsch, burned in 1905 but was rebuilt, operating until Prohibition.
MP Mattingly
Built in 1855, Mattingly’s distillery produced the renowned ‘Old Stone’ whiskey, reaching 4,000-5,000 barrels a year by 1905.
Kentucky Distillers (Old Stanley Distillery)
Opened in 1962, Kentucky Distillers produced bourbon until 1980. The facility still stands but is no longer used for distilling.
JWM Field
Founded in 1873 by J.W. Morton Field, this distillery gained fame for quality whiskey, operating until Prohibition.
John Hanning Distillery
Built in 1869, John Hanning Distillery produced its renowned Hand-Made Sour Mash Whiskey until Prohibition in 1920.
Hill & Perkins
Founded in 1878, Hill & Perkins became Rock Springs Distilling by 1889, operating until 1918 as Prohibition loomed.
Green River Distilling
Founded as Cliff Falls in 1881, Green River Distilling was renamed in 1888 and became famous as ‘The Whiskey Without a Headache.’ It later won multiple global awards before being sold in 1916.
Glenmore Distillery
Founded in 1872, Glenmore Distillery gained fame for its Kentucky Tavern brand. Now owned by Sazerac, it remains a major bottling facility.
Fleischmann’s Distilling Company
Built in 1874, Daviess County Distilling produced the Kentucky Club brand until closing in 1989 after a long history of ownership changes.
Daviess County Distilling
Built in 1874, Daviess County Distilling became part of Green River Spirits in 2014, reviving bourbon production by 2016.
Applegate Distilling Company
Built in the late 1870s near Yelvington, the Applegate Distillery operated until 1907, with remnants lasting into the 1900s.