Construction includes the renovation of two existing buildings and the addition of one new structure
Henderson, KY. (Sept. 30, 2024) – A groundbreaking ceremony for Henderson Distilling Co. occurred on September 30th at 10 a.m. at 405 N Main St. in Downtown Henderson. The company expects to open in the first quarter of 2025. The company officially announced its name as Rhythm River.
“Meredith and I are truly humbled by the vision and faith of our partners who have joined us in this venture. We are also immensely grateful for our state, county, and local partners who have helped get us to this point,” said Andrew Powell, co-founder of Henderson Distilling Co. “It is really exciting to get to rekindle the distilling industry in Henderson, and we are committed to creating world-class spirits and experiences that will be enjoyed and remembered for generations to come.”
Andrew and Meredith Powell, founders of Henderson Distilling Co. along with their investment team, plan to transform the former Henderson Municipal Power & Light campus into a fully operational distillery, creating 12 full-time jobs and making an investment of more than $5 million. The process equipment has been sourced and is prepared for shipment to Henderson as soon as the space is ready on the property.
Construction includes the renovation of two existing buildings and the addition of one new structure. Barrels will be stored in a renovated building located in the center of the property, while the visitor center will occupy a 7,000-square-foot renovated structure facing Main Street to welcome guests. Additionally, a new 7,380-square-foot Stillhouse will be built behind the visitor center.
Ground and site work are currently underway for Henderson Distilling Co.’s new craft distillery Stillhouse. This grain-to-glass production facility will produce bourbon and rye whiskeys along with other spirits, and feature 30-foot glass windows, offering guests views of the river, railroad bridge and column stills. Renderings were available for viewing at the groundbreaking event.
Renovations to the visitor center will take place after the construction of the Stillhouse. This space will include tasting rooms, retail areas, event space, and a cocktail bar. Andrew expressed his hope that the visitor center will flow into existing shops and restaurants to connect the distillery to Downtown Henderson.
Meredith will serve as the head distiller, overseeing all aspects of bourbon production, while Andrew will handle the business operations. He noted a unique characteristic of this distillery is the Powell family and all their investors have connections to Henderson, referring to their project as a “community distillery.”
The group purchased the property in January 2024. Soon after, they began working with Shrout Tate Wilson, a distillery engineering firm from Lexington, KY, as well as local architect Tim Skinner from Henderson.
Over the past few years, Andrew stated that they have conducted research, engaged consultants, learned from other distilleries, collaborated with the Kentucky Distilling Association (KDA), and participated in in-person workshops to ensure they are fully prepared for business.
Andrew Powell, founder of Henderson Distilling Co, expressed his appreciation for the partners who have supported them throughout their journey.
“We are elated to begin construction on our new stillhouse. As we’ve said since announcing this project—this is a project for our community, and we are excited to be creating a destination that will introduce more people to Henderson, Kentucky,” Powell said.
Henderson County Judge/Executive Brad Schneider expressed his excitement about welcoming visitors to Henderson.
“I am so proud for the ownership group of our new distillery. They have worked long and hard to bring this project from a dream to a groundbreaking. The distillery will be a tremendous addition to our historic downtown and draw thousands of visitors to our community. I can’t wait to cut the ribbon next year and to also taste the first bourbon from their barrels a few short years from now. To Andrew, Meredith and all their partners … CHEERS!”
City of Henderson Mayor Brad Staton highlighted the long-term benefits the distillery will bring to the community.
“I’m so proud when people take a chance on our community, invest their time and resources, and have great ideas they’re able to bring to life. Henderson and our tourism industry are going to benefit from this new venture for many decades to come,” Staton said.
Missy Vanderpool, executive director of Henderson Economic Development, expressed her excitement about the positive impact the distillery will have on job creation and tourism in Henderson.
“Today is an exciting day for Henderson, KY, as we break ground on our first craft distillery. We are incredibly thankful to Andrew and Meredith Powell, along with the Henderson Distilling Co. team, for their significant investment in our community,” Vanderpool said. “This project will not only create jobs but also boost tourism and foster local pride. This groundbreaking marks an exciting new chapter in Henderson’s future, and we look forward to the many opportunities it will bring to our community.”
Abby Dixon, executive director of the Henderson Tourist Commission, explained the impact bourbon has on tourism in Kentucky.
“This groundbreaking is a transformative moment for Henderson and our growing tourism economy,” Dixon said. “With the bourbon industry generating $9 billion for our state and welcoming 2 million visitors annually, we are ready to carve out our own place in this vibrant industry. Thanks to the visionaries who are bringing this project to life, we are solidifying our place on the map as a can’t-miss destination for bourbon enthusiasts to experience for themselves.”
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