FRANKFORT, Ky. — The Kentucky Distillers’ Association today welcomed Lexington’s Dark Arts Whiskey House as the newest member of the non-profit trade group that unites and leads Kentucky’s signature Bourbon and distilled spirits industry.

Co-founded in 2023 by entrepreneurs and whiskey enthusiasts Macaulay Minton and David Peet, Dark Arts Whiskey House hones its craft by blending, re-barreling, and finishing Bourbon, Rye, and Single Malt whiskeys using underutilized maturation techniques and unconventional barrels.

Since beginning production this year, Dark Arts has filled 200 barrels to date, each with a custom blend, limited-release whiskey. Located at 1170 Manchester Street in Lexington, Dark Arts offers visitors a front-row seat to witness the distillery’s mastery as they create products that transform traditional ingredients into an elevated experience.  

“We are thrilled to join the Kentucky Distillers’ Association,” said David Peet, Dark Arts Whiskey House CEO. “It’s an honor to stand among the finest in the industry as a new member of the KDA. This marks a true milestone for Dark Arts as we continue our mission to honor and elevate Kentucky Bourbon’s rich heritage—while boldly carving our own path.”

KDA President, Eric Gregory, said, “Kentucky Bourbon continues to capture the world’s attention, and we are thrilled to welcome Dark Arts Whiskey House as our newest member.  

“Dark Arts is a prime example of how innovation and passion will continue to create new experiences for visitors and unique expressions that will keep the Bourbon-enthusiasts and Bourbon-curious returning to Kentucky, year after year, to experience Bourbon in a new light.”

The addition of Dark Arts Whiskey House to the KDA reflects the continued expansion of Kentucky’s Bourbon industry, a $9 billion economic engine that generates more than 23,000 jobs and attracted 2.7 million visitors in 2024 through the Kentucky Bourbon Trail®.

Learn more about Dark Arts Whiskey House at www.darkartswhiskey.com.

Dark Arts Whiskey House joins KDA as a “Craft” level member, aging less than 10,000 barrels per year. Visit the KDA and its Kentucky Bourbon Trail® adventure at www.kybourbon.com and www.kybourbontrail.com.

About the Kentucky Distillers' Association:

Founded in 1880, the Kentucky Distillers’ Association is the Worldwide Voice of Bourbon™. Its diverse and growing membership produces the overwhelming majority of the world’s Bourbon, from historic, global brands to emerging micro distilleries that are fostering the next generation of the Commonwealth’s timeless craft. Kentucky Bourbon is a $9 billion economic engine generating more than 23,500 jobs and attracting over 2 million visits annually through the KDA’s Kentucky Bourbon Trail® experience. A 501(c)(6) nonprofit organization, the KDA maintains an open membership policy, champions a strong commitment to the responsible and moderate consumption of spirits, and fights to curb underage drinking and drunk driving. Learn more at www.kybourbon.com and www.kybourbontrail.com.