LUDLOW, Ky. – The Kentucky Distillers’ Association today announced that Second Sight Spirits in Kenton County is the newest and 28th member of the non-profit trade group that promotes, protects and unites the state’s signature Bourbon and distilled spirits industry.
Second Sight co-founders Carus Waggoner and Rick Couch grew up in Northern Kentucky andrecentl y moved back from Las Vegas, where they worked with Cirque Du Soleil on Beatles Love and Viva Elvis.
“We’ve been impressed with the job Rick and Carus have done by utilizing their theatrical talents in designing their distillery experience,” KDA President Eric Gregory said. “That’s the great thing about all our members – each one is truly unique.”
Second Sight is located in downtown Ludlow at 301 B Elm Street. The term “second sight” refers to an extrasensory ability to see the future, and the company’s still is designed to look like a fortune teller with a custom crystal ball condenser.
“Our vision of artisan distilling will focus on premium, local products presented in an innovative way,” Waggoner said. “We believe everything we do should be good for the spirit using the best ingredients to excite, engage and entertain our consumers.”
Couch said, “Being surrounded by the inspiring sights and sounds of Las Vegas gave us an intimate understanding of the processes and techniques it takes to make a world-class product and present it in an exciting way for Northern Kentucky.”
Their first product, Unbarreled Rum, is already in stores and an artisan gin is in the works.
Second Sight’s tasting room is open Friday from 5 to 8 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday from noon to 5 p.m. Tastings and tours are free. Tours are given on the hour. Last tour Friday is 7 p.m. and 4 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday.
Visit www.secondsightspirits.com for more information.
Founded in 1880, the KDA is the state’s voice for Bourbon and spirits issues. Second Sight is its 28th member and 20th craft member, building upon its record for the highest number of distilleries since the repeal of Prohibition.
The KDA’s diverse membership produces 90 percent of the world’s Bourbon, from legendary, global brands to emerging micro distilleries that are building the next generation of the timeless craft and strengthening Kentucky’s rightful place as the one, true authentic home for Bourbon.
Kentucky Bourbon is one of the Commonwealth’s most historic and treasured industries, a thriving $3 billion economic engine that generates more than 15,400 jobs with an annual payroll topping $700 million and pours $166 million into state and local coffers each year.
The KDA recently announced that the state’s inventory of aging Bourbon barrels set a 40-year high in 2014 with 5,669,682 million charred oak casks gently sleeping in Bluegrass warehouses. Production has soared more than 170 percent since the turn of the century, with only 485,020 barrels filled in 1999. Distilleries crafted 1,306,375 barrels last year – the highest production mark since 1970 and the third straight year with a million barrels born.
“This is a magical time for Kentucky Bourbon, and we’re excited to welcome Second Sight to our ranks,” Gregory said. “We look forward to working with them and our craft partners to secure the integrity of our industry and bolster the Golden Age of Bourbon.”
