Chicken Cock Whiskey Joins KDA
The Kentucky Distillers’ Association (KDA) today announced Bardstown’s Chicken Cock Whiskey as the newest member of the non-profit trade group that unites and leads Kentucky’s signature Bourbon and distilled spirits industry.
A historic brand dating back to 1856, Chicken Cock Whiskey was rediscovered in 2012 by the CEO and Founder of Grain & Barrel Spirits, Matti Anttila. It was fully revived in 2017 through a collaboration with Bardstown Bourbon Company.
Chicken Cock Whiskey proudly boasts a diverse portfolio of offerings, a brand home and micro-distillery named Circa 1856 in Bardstown, Ky., and a production operation. Circa 1856 showcases the brand’s portfolio through tastings, cocktails, and single pours. It opened in 2024 and is located at 103 East Stephen Foster Avenue, just off the town square.
KDA President, Eric Gregory expressed his excitement as the KDA community grows. “As Chicken Cock Whiskey enters the fold, we are thrilled to see our membership expanding as excitement around Kentucky Bourbon flourishes. Bourbon continues to build Kentucky and add additional flavors, experiences, and opportunities. With more distilleries and new opportunities for tourism, Bourbon is creating more reasons for visitors from around the world to spend time and money in our state and our local communities.”
Chicken Cock Whiskey joins the KDA as a “Craft” level member, aging between 1 and 1,000 barrels per year.
