Welcome to Southern Kentucky Distillery (SKD), a spirited hub nestled in the picturesque foothills of Appalachia. Founded by three passionate locals, SKD marries tradition with innovation, producing exquisite spirits that capture the essence of our unique heritage. Located between Lake Cumberland, Dale Hollow Lake, and the Cumberland River, our distillery is perfectly positioned to welcome both locals and tourists, offering a rich experience that goes beyond the bottle. Whether you’re a seasoned spirits enthusiast or a curious traveler, SKD promises a journey through history, craftsmanship, and unparalleled flavor.
Who We Are
Founding and Mission
Southern Kentucky Distillery was founded in 2022 by three partners—Junior Cecil, Dr. Michael Wilson, and Kevin Daily—each bringing unique expertise and a shared vision. Our mission is not just to produce high-quality spirits but to revive and celebrate the rich distilling traditions of Cumberland County. With the first legally distilled alcohol produced in the area since prohibition, SKD is a testament to resilience, innovation, and community spirit.
Meet the Founders
Junior Cecil is the heart and soul of our moonshine operations. Holding a BS from Eastern Kentucky University and an M.Ed from Lindsey Wilson College, Junior has a deep-rooted understanding of moonshine. He has developed all our delightful moonshine flavors, making him a local legend in and around the four-county area.
Dr. Michael Wilson brings a unique blend of scientific rigor and hands-on expertise to SKD. With a BS from the University of Kentucky and a DO from Lincoln Memorial University, he practices as an ER doctor while being hyper-focused on process optimization at the distillery. His meticulous approach ensures that every batch of spirits meets our high standards for quality and consistency.
Kevin Daily rounds out the trio with his extensive background in fuel alcohol starch conversion, yeast fermentation, and business development. Holding a BS from the University of Kentucky, Kevin is the mastermind behind our efficient and innovative production processes. His business acumen and technical skills are crucial to SKD’s continued growth and success.
Together, these three founders embody the spirit of Southern Kentucky Distillery, blending tradition and modernity to create extraordinary spirits that honor our past and inspire our future.
Our Story
Historical Significance
In 2022, Southern Kentucky Distillery made history by producing the first legal bourbon in Cumberland County since the days of prohibition. This milestone wasn’t just about creating a product; it was about reviving a long-lost tradition and rekindling the spirit of a community. Cumberland County remained “dry” for decades until its residents voted to make it “wet” in 2016, paving the way for ventures like SKD. Our distillery stands as a beacon of progress and a nod to the rich heritage of Southern Kentucky’s distilling past.
Our Unique Location
Nestled in the foothills of Appalachia, SKD offers more than just great spirits—it’s a destination. Every year, thousands of visitors flock to this area to enjoy its natural beauty and recreational opportunities. Our distillery adds another dimension to their visit, providing tours, tastings, and a unique blend of local culture, history, and craftsmanship.
Southern Kentucky Distillery Products
Slate Fork Moonshine
Our Slate Fork Moonshine is something special. Originating from a homemade Southern Appalachia recipe in one of our founders’ kitchens, it has evolved into a product that defines SKD. With a sweetness that excites the taste buds, Slate Fork Moonshine comes in a variety of flavors that cater to diverse preferences. Whether you’re drawn to the fruity notes of Strawberry Lemonade, Green Apple, Peach, Watermelon, and Blackberry, or the unique twist of our popular Dingleberry, there’s a flavor for everyone. And for those who crave more of a kick, our 100-proof Stump Water offers a robust alternative. Each bottle of Slate Fork Moonshine is crafted to deliver a delightful experience, whether you prefer it sweet or with a bit of heat.
Broadhead Bourbon
Broadhead Bourbon is our pride and joy, a true embodiment of Kentucky bourbon traditions. Distilled in the foothills of Cumberland County and aged for four years in genuine charred white oak barrels, our bourbon is a harmonious blend of tradition and innovation. Using locally sourced grain, we ensure that every batch meets the highest standards of quality. The dramatic temperature changes in Kentucky allow the barrels to expand and contract, infusing the bourbon with a rich tapestry of flavors and colors. Although the first release of Broadhead Bourbon won’t be until 2027, the anticipation is already building among bourbon aficionados.
Ancient Sun Vodka
Our Ancient Sun Vodka is crafted for those who appreciate purity and sophistication. Utilizing a multi-distillation and filtration process, along with ozonation, we create a vodka that’s exceptionally smooth and clean. Distilled from grain and made with limestone-filtered water, Ancient Sun Vodka is naturally non-GMO, gluten-free, and contains no additives. This vodka embodies the long-standing tradition of sun, water, beach, and boat—elements that define our local culture. Whether enjoyed neat or in a cocktail, Ancient Sun Vodka is designed for fun in the sun and perfect moments of relaxation.
Our Tours and Tastings
At Southern Kentucky Distillery, experiencing our distillery firsthand is the best way to understand the passion and craftsmanship that goes into each bottle. Our distillery tours offer an immersive journey through the art and science of distillation, providing visitors with a behind-the-scenes look at our operations.
The Tour Experience
Our guided tours are priced at $15 per person and provide a comprehensive overview of our distillery process. From fermentation to distilling, bottling, and barreling, you’ll get to see every step involved in creating our premium products. Our knowledgeable guides will share fascinating insights about the history of distillation in Cumberland County, the science behind our techniques, and the stories that make SKD unique. Book a distillery tour.
Tastings
The tour includes a moonshine tasting session, where you can sample our current lineup of spirits. It’s a perfect opportunity to discover new favorites and appreciate the meticulous care that goes into each pour.
By the end of the tour, you’ll not only have gained a deeper appreciation for our spirits but also a sense of connection to the heritage and community that define Southern Kentucky Distillery.
Industry Support and Collaboration
Southern Kentucky Distillery is proud to be supported by some of the industry’s most respected names. Our journey would not have been possible without the expertise and collaboration of key partners who believe in our mission and contribute to our success.
Expert Contributions
Dr. Patrick Heist, a renowned figure in fermentation and quality control, plays a crucial role in ensuring that our products meet the highest standards. His guidance and expertise are invaluable assets to our operation.
On the distillation engineering and fabrication front, we are fortunate to have Joseph Dehner and Red Boot Stills (IA), along with Frontline Bioenergy (IA), contributing their skills and knowledge. Their work has been instrumental in building the state-of-the-art facilities that set SKD apart.
Additionally, Michael Chapman at Prettech Canada supports us in process design and fabrication, ensuring that every aspect of our production is optimized for quality and efficiency. We are deeply grateful to all these individuals and organizations for their support and belief in our vision.
Community and Collaboration
Beyond technical expertise, the support from our collaborators extends to a shared commitment to excellence and community. The relationships we’ve built with industry leaders are a testament to the collaborative spirit that drives Southern Kentucky Distillery. Together, we are pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in the world of spirits, while staying true to the traditions that define us.
Come Visit our Southern Kentucky Distillery
If you’re looking for a unique experience that combines rich history, masterful craftsmanship, and unparalleled flavor, we invite you to visit Southern Kentucky Distillery. Located in the charming town of Burkesville, KY, our distillery offers more than just a tour—it’s a journey through the heart of Southern Kentucky’s distilling heritage.
Book a Tour: Join us for an insightful and engaging tour of our distillery. For just $15, you’ll get a behind-the-scenes look at our production process and enjoy a tasting session of our premium spirits. Tours can be booked online or by phone at (270) 456-5151.
Location: We are conveniently located at 4890 Albany Road, Burkesville, KY 42717. Our scenic surroundings between Lake Cumberland, Dale Hollow Lake, and the Cumberland River make for a memorable visit, whether you’re a local or a tourist.
What to Expect: During your visit, you’ll learn about the history of distillation in Cumberland County, see the meticulous process behind each of our products, and taste the distinct spirits that make SKD special. It’s an experience you won’t want to miss.
Stay Connected
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