KDA Welcomes Knox County’s Bargo 459 Into Its Ranks

The Kentucky Distillers’ Association today announced Bargo 459 in Knox County is the newest member of the non-profit trade group that unites and leads Kentucky’s signature Bourbon and distilled spirits industry. Bargo 459 is led by Matthew Bargo II, his wife, Susie, and their son, Matthew Bargo III.

Perched on Kentucky Highway 3041 overlooking the new Cumberland Run harness racing track, Bargo 459 is a small craft distillery where only a limited number of barrels are finished at a time. Its address is 133 Wes David Road in Corbin, Ky.

Their whiskey is all pot-distilled straight Bourbon that has been proofed with spring water from the Cumberland Gap and finished in either sherry or port casks. “We are focused on quality, not quantity,” said founder Matthew Bargo II.

Before developing his distillery and his whiskey, the elder Bargo said he researched thousands of articles, visited numerous Kentucky distilleries and interviewed older individuals who had been involved in creating moonshine during Prohibition.

“Making Bourbon is hard work,” he said. “Making good Bourbon is really hard work. Our goal is to consistently produce exceptional Bourbon that is a symphony of aroma and color with a rich lingering taste.

“In that spirited journey, we stand honored to join this esteemed association and harness its wealth of knowledge while contributing our own innovative approach. Our alignment with the KDA signifies our commitment to upholding the highest standards in Bourbon production.”

The distillery plans to release speciality small batch and single barrel runs with a diversity of cask finishes and limited-edition releases. It also is preparing to open a tasting room to welcome visitors to experience the Bargo 459 portfolio.

KDA President Eric Gregory said, “Kentucky’s Bourbon legacy is full of storied history and rich traditions that have been passed down and shared across the industry, and we applaud Matt and his family for their passion and dedication to our timeless craft.

“The KDA and our 100 distillery members and partners are excited to welcome Bargo 459 to our growing family of the Commonwealth’s finest distillers and the entire Knox County community that will benefit from their investment, their great whiskey and their tourism experiences.”

Bargo 459 joins the KDA as a “Craft” level member, aging between 1 and 10,000 barrels per year.