A $5 million immersive brand destination in Lexington focused on wood-finished bourbon — featuring an R&D distillery, barrel thieving, an indoor forest experience, and a hidden speakeasy.
RD1 Spirits is one of the newest and most impressive additions to the Lexington bourbon scene. Their 10,215-square-foot facility at The Commons opened in May 2025 and is already drawing rave reviews. The name honors Lexington's first federally registered distillery from 1865 — the Ashland Distillery, designated RD #1. What sets RD1 apart is their obsession with wood finishing. Led by R&D Master Distiller Dr. Jarrad Gollihue (a former UK James B. Beam Institute researcher), they experiment with unique woods from around the world to create distinct flavor profiles. The "RD1 Forest" is an indoor experiential zone where you walk among trees while learning about forestry science and wood chemistry — it's unlike anything else on the trail. The two-story space includes a self-guided museum-style lobby, private tasting rooms, a bourbon bar with craft cocktails, a hidden speakeasy behind a secret door, a 240-barrel rick visible from inside and out, and a gift shop with limited releases including their exclusive 12-year single barrel. Barrel thieving — pulling bourbon straight from the cask — is one of their signature experiences. You can also customize your own label. Walk-ins are welcome but reservations are recommended.
Taste barrel-strength RD1 expressions and explore their wood-finishing portfolio. Includes the self-guided lobby tour and RD1 Forest experience. Interactive and sensory-driven — a bourbon lover's dream.
Pull bourbon straight from the barrel, taste multiple expressions, and create a custom-labeled bottle to take home. The most hands-on experience at RD1.
RD1 is gaining popularity fast — they're projecting 30,000 visitors annually. Book online a week ahead for weekend experiences. Walk-ins can access the bar and self-guided lobby tour. The location at The Commons is easy to find, about a mile from downtown Lexington.
Booking Method: Website
Hardest Slots: Fri/Sat afternoon
Cancellation: 24hr notice
Walk-Up Chance: Good (bar and lobby)
The gift shop carries RD1's full portfolio plus distillery-exclusive releases like their 12-year single barrel ($799 — a collector's item). More affordable options are available too. Unique merchandise and custom-labeled bottles make great souvenirs. Limited releases rotate regularly.
RD1 is the most exciting new distillery experience in Lexington. The wood-finishing focus is genuinely innovative, the facility is stunning, and the barrel thieving experience is unforgettable. The hidden speakeasy and wraparound patio add polish. Pair with James E. Pepper and Fresh Bourbon for a world-class Lexington distillery day.
Address: 113 Turner Commons Way, Suite 110, Lexington, KY 40508
Hours: Mon–Thu 11 AM – 6 PM, Fri–Sat 11 AM – 7 PM, Sun 12 PM – 6 PM (Closed Wed)
Parking: Free parking at The Commons.
Kids: Not ideal — upscale bourbon-focused environment. No tasting under 21.
Distillery District production tour. Great combo.
Sensory tasting experience downtown.
Craft distillery in the District.
Restaurants, entertainment, and walking trails at your doorstep.
Itinerary Fit — See how RD1 Spirits fits into our 3-Day Bourbon Trail Itinerary and plan your day-by-day route with nearby stops.