Lofted Spirits cuts production at 2 Kentucky distilleries

LOUISIVLLE, Ky. (WDRB) — Two Kentucky distilleries owned by Lofted Spirits are reducing production amidst the decline in demand for American whiskey, according to our partners at Louisville Business First.

Bardstown Bourbon Co., based out of Bardstown, Kentucky, significantly cut down their production schedule, with operations reduced to one shift. This pullback indicates another sign of weaker demand for contract whiskey.

Green River Distilling Co. of Owensboro, Kentucky, is also reducing their operations. A Lofted Spirits representative said Green River is operating on an "as-need basis," for both contract clients and the brand, LBF reported.

Both companies have tasting rooms on Main Street in downtown Louisville.

The company declined to say how many jobs may be affected by these reductions. They made the following statement earlier this month:

"Like much of the American whiskey industry, we are making adjustments to meet current demand for contract whiskey. We will continue to adjust for the market — whether that’s growing or shrinking. This is the reality of the industry, and we are building for the long term."

The reductions come after major leadership changes within both distilleries.

BBC president Pete Marino announced in February he would be stepping down from his role in June. This came on the heels of a whistleblower complaint filed by the former vice president of human resources, according to previous LBF reporting.

Three weeks prior to that, Aaron Harris, head distiller and operations manager of Green River, announced via LinkedIn he was seeking new leadership opportunities.

LBF also reported in March 2025 that Green River planned to lay off 26 employees — about 30% of their workforce.

Even with decreased production and employment, Lofted did say both brands grew by 44% in 2025, with their biggest month of shipments in history in January.