Chevy Chaser Magazine, October 2025 by Smiley Pete Publishing

8 Essential Lexington Distilleries

A LOOK AT ALL THE UNIQUE MUST-VISIT DISTILLERIES IN OUR OWN BACKYARD

PASSING THE MIC CD CENTRAL MAKES WAY FOR CUT CORNER RECORDS ON OUR TABLE CIDER-BRINED BRATWURST RECIPE A QUICK SIX HOLISTIC HEALING SPECIALIST DOREEN ADAMS

Nick S. Morrow, DMD W. Scott Jenkins, DMD, MD

Matthew N. Gayheart, DMD, MD

JOSEPH HILLENMEYER GARDEN DESIGN

SPRING REVEALS WHAT WINTER CONCEIVES

JOSEPHHILLENMEYER.COM

At JHGD, we know spring’s beauty is born in the stillness of fall and winter. In these hushed months, ideas becomes sketches and textures become plans because vision must take root long before the first bloom. What feels effortless in a Joseph Hillenmeyer garden is the culmination of discipline, foresight, and refinement, shaped carefully in the seasons that came before.

Contributors

Michelle Aiello is a Chicago-born writer, editor and indie publisher. Her interests include living room karaoke, snail mail and all things vintage. She contributes to our monthly “tadoo list” (our calendar of cultural happenings, page 41).

With a passion for live music and Appalachia, Madylin Goins (photography for “On Our Table,” page 36) is a Lexingtonbased journalist and photographer committed to promoting artists and the stories that keep the hills alive.

Mick Je ries (photography for “Passing the Mic,” page 8) is a longtime contributor of words and images to the Smiley Pete universe. He works in an ever-changing array as graphic designer, photographer, writer, radio show host and oral historian to celebrate and evangelize the ever-unfolding zeitgeist of Lexington, his beloved home for more than three decades.

Matt Wickstrom (“Passing the Mic,” page 8 and “8 Essential Distilleries,” page 23) is a professional writer, music lover and founder of the music blog and radio program Wick’s Picks.

This month's Drink of the Month (“Black Magic,” page 39) came from Dark Arts Whiskey House, a whiskey blending, rebarreling and ﬁnishing house that describes its process as “anything but ordinary.” Dark Arts opened a new a facility in Lexington’s Distillery District earlier this summer.

This month's On Our Table recipe (“Cider-Brined Bratwursts with Homemade Banana Pepper Mustard & Diced Green Apples,” page 36) came from Little Fork at Wise Bird Cider Co., a casual eatery that aims to provide easy-on-the-wallet meals that pair with the cidery's award-winning ciders. Little Fork and Wise Bird are located in Lexington's Distillery District. ■

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CIVIC CONNECTIONS

The Urban County Council wants to hear from you!

BY LAYTON GARLINGTON LFUCG PUBLIC INFORMATION OFFICER

That statement might sound obvious to some and a little suspicious to others, but in recent years, Lexington’s Council has taken meaningful steps to modernize how residents can interact with their representatives.

In 2022, the local civics organization CivicLex released a report outlining how residents provide input into LFUCG’s legislative process and recommending ways to improve it. Rather than letting that report gather dust on a shelf, Council created a Public Input Subcommittee to make sure the recommendations were acted upon.

GARLINGTON

One outcome of that effort was the recommendation that Council establish its own Public Information Officer — a role dedicated to helping residents understand Council’s work and how to get involved. I stepped into that role in May 2025, becoming the second person to serve in this capacity. My job is to help bridge the gap between the work being done by the Council and the public they serve.

The subcommittee also focused on two major opportunity areas outlined by CivicLex: Many people weren’t sure when their input could make the most impact, and Council’s meeting times were often inaccessible to working residents. To address those challenges, the subcommittee proposed creating an online tool for public input. That idea grew into Engage Lexington, a platform designed to make it easier for you to share your thoughts directly with Council from wherever you are.

Engage Lexington is now a central hub where residents can follow Council initiatives, learn about upcoming decisions, and share feedback without having to attend a meeting in person. Each project page includes background information, documents, and opportunities to comment, so you can weigh in when it works for your schedule.

Already, Engage Lexington has been used to gather public input on topics ranging from budget priorities to neighborhood traffic safety. It allows Council members to see not only what people think, but also why — offering richer context than a simple yes-or-no.

Council created this platform because your voice matters. If you haven’t yet, I encourage you to visit Engage.LexingtonKY.gov, register for an account, explore ongoing projects, and share your thoughts directly with Council. n

PASSING THE MIC

FANS CELEBRATE MEMORIES AT CD CENTRAL AS THE BELOVED RECORD STORE CLOSES TO MAKE WAY FOR THE RETURN OF CUT CORNER RECORDS

STORY BY MATT WICKSTROM

PHOTOS BY MICK JEFFRIES

After three decades in business, a beloved Lexington record store has counted down its final days.

CD Central owner Steve Baron, who first launched the shop out of South Hill Station in 1995, announced on social media in early August that he would close the store in early September. The news was met with mixed emotions from customers sad to see the business go but also congratulatory to Baron as he eyes retirement. Dozens of comments poured in, with people sharing stories of hanging out in the store as teenagers (and now shopping there with their own teenage kids), remembering other South Limestone businesses that have come and gone since CD Central has been open, and even recalling meeting future spouses among the racks.

Baron says the decision — one he’s considered for a couple of years — stemmmed from a desire to travel and spend time with family, and not from financial strain. In fact, the closing came during one of the shop's strongest business stretches ever.

“We’re still seeing growth in the business, and we’re on track to have one of our best years ever,” Baron said. “It hurts to shut down something that is doing well, but all things must come to an end eventually. You hear stories about guys who refuse to retire and work until they’re 90, but I didn’t want to do that.”

And for fans, there’s a silver lining: CD Central has now transitioned into a new version of a Lexington mainstay from the past, Cut Corner Records (more on that in a minute).

CD Central owner Steve Baron has passed the baton on his record store after 30 years in business.

PHOTO BY MICK JEFFRIES

Bittersweet Symphony

CD Central's growth had been fueled by customers both new and old, from loyalists dating back to the South Hill Station days to the fresh crop of UK students who descend on campus each fall, each finding something to love and listen to within the store’s walls.

One of them is Blake Carpenter, who said CD Central helped him through homesickness when he moved to Lexington from his native Middlesboro for school in 2005.

“When I first went to college, I went through a pretty bad spell of homesickness,” Carpenter said. “Between adjusting to it and being away from friends and parents, it was rough that first semester — then I found CD Central. I could get lost in there looking through music, discovering local bands, and finding a new poster to plaster on my dorm room wall. And for that little bit of time, I didn’t feel homesick. Graduation came and life moved on, but I could always depend on that store to lift my spirits. Even if I was just driving by, I’d look over and smile.”

PHOTO

MICK JEFFRIES

Supporting the local music scene was always a motive operandi of CD Central, and is a torch that Cut Corner intends to continue to carry.

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As Carpenter’s story illustrates, CD Central, which celebrated its 30th anniversary this summer, had long been more than a place to buy music: It’s been a hub for Lexington’s music community. Since its inception, the business consigned with local artists to sell their music, offered its window space to post concert flyers, sponsored a stage during the city’s Fourth of July Festival at Phoenix Park, and hosted countless in-store shows of its own.

“A-list” artists including Chris Stapleton, Jason Isbell, The Black Keys, The Avett Brothers, and Victoria Williams all performed there. CD Central was also among the first independent record stores in the country to participate in Record Store Day when it debuted in 2008.

“We’ve always wanted to be a part of the community and musical culture of Lexington and not just a store selling stuff,” Baron said. “That’s one of the things that separates local businesses from the others — the ability to engage with people locally on a grassroots level.”

Former employee Aayat Ali, who worked at CD Central from 2017 to 2020, described the shop as “a third space in its truest form,” creating a sense of nostalgia for both longtime patrons and first-time college students.

“It feels really special to have gotten a peak behind the curtain for the few years I worked there,” says Ali. “I left with lifelong connections and memories, and I’m thankful to Steve for curating that culture and letting me have a small part in it.”

Combining traditional cooking techniques with modern innovation, we provide an elevated Greek dining experience. Now with table service at our new beloved brick-and-mortar establishment in Lexington. Welcome to dinner at Athenian Grill.

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PHOTO BY MICK JEFFRIES

Encore: Cut Corner Records Returns

Although the closure marks the end of a decades-long run that saw the introduction of music downloading, then streaming, social media, and a global pandemic — even the comeback of vinyl — another music store has moved in to take its place, and it's a familiar name to longtime Lexingtonians. On September 13, the South Limestone space reopened as Cut Corner Records, reviving the name that adorned the storefront from 1979 until CD Central moved in in 1999.

The new venture is run by Louisville native Bob Lewis, former CD Central employee Tony Manuel, and a silent third partner. They’ve retained most of the shop’s inventory and fixtures, from CDs and vinyl inventories to display racks and countertops.

For Lewis, who attended UK and often slipped into the original Cut Corner between classes, the revival is personal. After the shop became CD Central, he continued coming back, even after he moved to Louisville for work.

“When [the three of us] first found out that CD Central was going to close, we got worried because we didn’t want to see something that wasn’t a record store potentially going in there,” Lewis said. “We started thinking of what we could do that would allow for that to continue on and the conversation naturally moved into taking an ownership role.”

Baron, who is leasing the building to the trio, agrees. “It tempers the disappointment of having to close the store knowing that there’s going to be another independent one moving in that’s run by local

people who are going to do a lot of the same things we were.”

Per Lewis, Cut Corner plans to offer an increased selection of vinyl, ephemera and other music accessories. Otherwise, customers shouldn't see many changes in day-to-day operations, apart from a different (yet familiar) name out front. Most of CD Central’s current employees will stay on, and Baron may still pop in from time to time.

“What I’ll miss most is the interactions with people. A lot of the work I’m not going to miss though,” Baron jokes. “They say when you retire that it’s important to have social networking and a lot of that for me has revolved around the store. I’ve met so many awesome people through the years that I’ll miss seeing on a regular basis, even though I’m excited for what comes next.” n

PHOTO BY MICK JEFFRIES

Owners of the new record store, Cut Corner Records, are Bob Lewis (left) and Tony Manuel (right), and a silent third parner.

QUICK 6

DOREEN ADAMS OF THIRD EYE KENTUCKY

INTRO AND QUESTIONS

BY SARAYA BREWER

Doreen Adams first noticed her heightened intuition as a child; in fact, one of her earliest memories related to her clairvoyant tendencies was when she predicted out loud that her elementary school teacher would be getting a divorce within the year. While it was not something her teacher wanted to hear at the time, it proved to be true (and is something that ended up working out for the best, Adams assures).

“As a child, it was a blessing and a curse at the same time,” she said, of growing up with this heightened ability to hear, see and feel things that others could not.

Today, she has harnessed it into a gift and a career, as a holistic healing specialist with Third Eye Kentucky. A spiritualistic center with a retail arm that sells crystals, healing stones and other holistic products, the Short Street business also offers Reiki readings, chakra balancing, aura cleansing, psychic readings, and other practices designed to encourage heightened consciousness and lowered anxiety. Adams addresses everything from navigating relationship challenges and healing from past wounds to understanding signs and synchronicities from the spiritual world, clearing blocked energy and more.

PHOTO FURNISHED

Holistic healing specialist Doreen Adams helps her clients reach heightened consciousness and lowered anxiety through psychic readings, chakra balancing, aura cleansing, Reiki and other practices.

SOLAR IS DEAD IN 2026

TAKE ADVANTAGE OF 30% TAX CREDIT NOW THROUGH DEC. 31.

The U.S. government’s 30% federal tax credit for installing solar panels or a geothermal heat pump, disappears completely on January 1st, 2026. We’re talking just three months away. If renewable energy has been on your mind, l’d encourage you to at least find out what your options are while you can still get the maximum tax benefits. An energy assessment doesn’t cost anything, but could save you thousands. Call us today.

Ask the Home Services Expert with Jamie Clark

We had an interesting call about a whiteboard Wednesday appearance last month so I thought I’d start with that this month.

Kudos: I wanted to call and compliment you on the Whiteboard Wednesday segment you had on TV this week. In the show you mentioned a friend on Facebook who was upset that they had a HVAC company come and give a replacement quote but would not give it to her because her HUSBAND was not present! Now to be clear I’m an old hippy and I even burned a bra or two back in my prime! But I was so encouraged that you were as upset about that as I was. I heard you say that you’re a girl dad, and you were raised by a single mother, and maybe that’s why you get it. But I was so thrilled to hear you say that respect for all, not just women or men, is a priority for Synergy and all your employees! Thank you for setting a higher standard in your industry!

Shila H.

Jamie: You would think in 2025 that this is an uncommon issue but the fact is we hear similar stories all the time. Some companies will not give an estimate if both the decision makers are not there at the time of the visit and that’s basically code for wanting to give the estimate to the husband which is sad. In my opinion I ﬁnd that the wife is normally more concerned with how the home heats and cools, more concerned about dust and allergens, more concerned about losing power so I think it’s short sighted to not have the conversation with the more concerned party. Heck, I know plenty of men who would live in a tent with a tailgate chair and a big screen TV and be as happy as can be!

Question: Is there a better time of year to get a Generac generator?

Alan O.

Answer: A generator is much like an insurance policy, the best time to get it is before you need it. I always encourage customers to get one now and

not wait because when we have the next big storm and power outage we get slammed with customers and get booked out on our schedule. After the storm last September that followed hurricane Hellene we were so busy we booked out several months whereas right now we are only booked out a couple weeks. Don’t wait! Many generator customers have been wanting one for years and the next power outage might be the one to push you into doing it. With simple ﬁnancing or 18 months same as cash we can make it easy and aﬀordable so don’t wait!

Question: I live in Shadeland East and we are all electric with very high winter bills. I’m told we can convert to gas and see a big diﬀerence. Is this something Synergy can do for us?

Kelly C.

Answer: Not just can we, we specialize in this. Shadeland east is a unique subdivision because of the time it was built. It was the late 1970’s and Columbia gas was part of the embargo and was not running new gas lines to new subdivisions. At the same time heat pumps were just getting popular but construction codes had not been adapted to all electric homes, so those homes are not very well insulated by today’s stricter standards. Gas is a much hotter heat and more forgiving to poorly insulated homes. I have converted many houses in your neighborhood to gas now that it’s available. We also can upgrade the insulation at the same time and it’s not uncommon to see energy savings of better than 50% while at the same time making the home more comfortable and improving the dust/ air quality. If we could cut your bill by 50% how quickly could you pay oﬀ the cost? I’d say pretty quick. I would not replace my HVAC in your subdivision without at least having the conversation of switching to gas or dual fuel.

Do you have a question or a concern about your home’s efficiency, comfort or air quality? Send your questions or comments to info@ mysynergyhome.com.

Adams recently took the time to answer a few questions for us about her practice.

When & how did you first tap into your heightened intuition and clairvoyant tendencies? I first noticed my gift when I was about seven years old. Growing up, it was confusing and hard to understand why I sensed and saw things others didn’t. Over time, I learned to listen to my intuition and began connecting deeply with energy. It felt natural, but it also took patience to embrace it fully.

Was there a defining moment when you knew this would be your life’s work? Yes. There was a moment when I helped someone close to me through a very dark time. I guided them using what I felt and saw, and the peace it brought them changed me. That experience made me realize this gift wasn’t just for me. It was meant to help others find clarity and healing.

Do you need to be in-person with someone to connect with their energy or spirit guides? No, I don’t. Energy has no limits, and spirit communicates beyond distance. I can connect just as strongly whether someone is sitting in front of me or miles away. It’s about tuning into their energy and opening myself up to receive the messages meant for them.

“Many people think my work is about predicting the future, but it’s really about healing, clarity and understanding energy.”

–

Doreen Adams

What’s the most vivid or memorable spiritual encounter you’ve had? One of my most vivid moments was during a meditation when I felt completely surrounded by light. It was warm, peaceful and full of guidance. I received messages that later helped someone through an important life decision. Moments like that remind me that we’re always supported, even when we cannot see it.

What’s something people misunderstand most about your work? How do you respond to people who are skeptical of your abilities? Many people think my work is about predicting the future, but it’s really about healing, clarity and understanding energy. I’ve learned not to convince anyone. I just focus on helping the people who are open and ready to receive guidance. Over time, many skeptics see the results for themselves.

What can you tell me about your work with horses? What’s your history with the equine world, and what is it about horses that you feel opens up your line of intuitive communication with them? I’ve always had a deep connection with horses. Spending time around them, I noticed how easily they respond to energy and intention. Horses are highly intuitive and mirror emotions in a way that opens a stronger channel of communication for me. When I’m near them, I can sense things more clearly, and that connection helps me guide both the horses and their owners. n

“Relaxing the body. Quieting the mind. Opening the heart.”

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CHEVY CHASE, YOU ROCK .

What a night and what a neighborhood. The Chevy Chase Street Fair brought together friends, families and neighbors for an unforgettable evening of food, music and community in the heart of Chevy Chase.

A huge thank you to Kroger, Wildcat Moving, Bank of the Bluegrass and LeafFilter for helping us celebrate in style. Smiley Pete Publishing is proud to bring this community tradition to life year after year.

Until next year, Chevy Chase Street Fair!

ESSENTIAL LEXINGTON DISTILLERIES

Kentucky has long been synonymous with bourbon, but the past two decades have seen a boom unlike anything that’s come before it. Lexington and Central Kentucky have been at the epicenter of that growth with everything from revived century-old facilities to tech start-ups turned distillers and the ﬁrst Black-owned bourbon company in the state since the end of slavery now calling the region home.

BY MATT WICKSTROM AND SARAYA BREWER

PARTNERING WITH BGCF IS A SURE BET.

Ashley and John Backer partner with the Community Foundation to support their family giving, and Pin Oak Stud turns to BGCF to organize its corporate philanthropy.

We’re here to help with your equine, corporate or family giving. Join Ashley and John, and establish your charitable fund at the Community Foundation today.

John Backer, CFO, Pin Oak Stud

Ashley Backer, Community Volunteer and BGCF Fundholder

Barrel House Distilling Co.

1200 Manchester St. • barrelhousedistillery.com

Founded by friends Pete Wright and Jeff Wiseman, Barrel House was one of the first businesses to open in Lexington’s revived Distillery District when it opened in 2008. The first “craft distillery” to open in the state, Barrel House stays true to its roots and to the foundations of bourbon and distillation by keeping everything small batch and handcrafted rather than automating larger batches, according to lead distiller and operations manager Dan Dotson.

Since releasing its first product, Pure Blue Vodka, Barrel House has gone on to produce a portfolio of spirits that includes Devil John Moonshine, Oak Rum and Licking River Rye, but Dotson says the product that sets the company apart is its award-winning Rockcastle Bourbon, named after the limestone-rich spring water that it sources from that county. This fall the company will release its 20th batch of that bourbon, which is released only twice a year.

After touring the intimate distillery, visitors also can try Barrel House’s creations at the adjoining Elkhorn Tavern, a cozy bar that feels equal parts speakeasy and hunting lodge, with an eclectic and uniquely Kentucky food and beverage menu. Notably, the company broke ground in 2024 on a new $1.8 million facility in Harrison County (Cynthiana), which, when it opens, will be that county’s first distilling company since the 1970s.

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BARREL HOUSE DISTILLING CO. PHOTO FURNISHED

Bespoken Spirits

101 W. Loudon Ave. • bespokenspirits.com

Originally founded as a technology company in San Francisco, Bespoken has excelled using a unique patented rapidaging process to create bourbons that match hyper-specific flavor and taste profiles. The company uses a tailored wood finishing process, maturing the spirit in stainless steel kegs that are infused with micro-staves (small, toasted wood pieces), a method that enables a rapid and precise flavor development while reducing resource waste.

Located within Greyline Station, Bespoken’s home base underscores the company’s innovative approach, with a sleek and modern tasting room and production areas that feel more like a high-tech lab than a traditional distillery. The distillery got o to a rockin’ start last year, with a grand opening party that featured an intimate concert and tasting event with southern rock legends Lynyrd Skynyrd, with whom the company had collaborated to create a 90-proof whiskey called Hell House.

No stranger to high proﬁle collaborations and celebrity endorsements, the company also drew early investment from Baseball Hall of Famer Derek Jeter and has created partnerships with University of Kentucky Athletics’ NIL fundraising collective (a bourbon brand called Club Blue) and country rock band Whiskey Myers (called Uncle Chicken’s), among others.

Guided tours and tasting experiences are available at the facility.

Bluegrass Distillers

158 W. Leestown Road (Midway) • bluegrassdistillers.com

Founded in 2012 by Woodford County native Sam Rock, Bluegrass Distillers opened its doors to the public in its original downtown Lexington location in 2013. This summer, the company moved to a new $8 million facility on a historic Midway farm (which makes it the only distillery on this list not actually based in Lexington, but we’re giving it a pass).

Bluegrass Distillers crafts award-winning bourbons with a seed-to-grass approach using (mostly) grains grown on its 62-acre Elkwood Farm. With history dating back to the 1830s, the property is listed on the National Historic Register, and features a mansion that patrons are able to visit during a distillery tour. The tour walks guests through the property while providing an up-close look at every step of the bourbonmaking process.

“For us, it’s about keeping bourbon rooted in the place it comes from and making something authentic to Kentucky,” said Maggie Young, the company’s director of marketing and distribution.

The distillery’s move to this new location in June has increased its production capacity by over 100 percent, setting the company up for steady growth into the future as they continue to honor the craft bourbon traditions that came before them. Additional attractions, like a café, a music series, and other events designed to bring people together at the farm will be rolled out in the months ahead.

BLUEGRASS DISTILLERS PHOTO FURNISHED

Dark Arts Whiskey House

1170 Manchester St. #190 • www.darkartswhiskey.com

Just over two years since the brand o cially launched in April 2023, Dark Arts Whiskey House opened a stunning new guest experience facility earlier this summer in the heart of Lexington’s Distillery District.

Located in the space in the original James E. Pepper Distillery building most recently occupied by RD1 Spirits, Dark Arts describes itself as a “blending, re-barreling and ﬁnishing house…inspired by alchemists of old.”

Under the direction of master blender/chief alchemist Macauley Minton, the company incorporates philosophies from the ancient art of alchemy—an ancient tradition that combines philosophical, spiritual and experimental practices to understand and transform matter in pursuit of spiritual and material perfection—into a modern-day whiskey-making practice.

In layman’s terms: Minton and his team of blenders craft unique and elevated custom-blended whiskeys by procuring barrels of high-quality spirits from Kentucky and Indiana, then aging/ﬁnishing them in unconventional barrels, from exotic oaks such as Japanese Mizunara, French Jupilles and Brazilian Amburana, to Madeira, port or even maple syrup casks. These woods impart unique ﬂavors and qualities while respecting the whiskey’s core.

In addition to guided tastings of the brand’s more than 80 products, guest experiences o ered at the facility include an “Alchemical Journey” tasting and a “Thief From the Barrel” experience that allows guests to choose a ﬂight of four pours directly from the barrel, with an option to bottle your own favorite to take home. The distillery also features a moody and atmospheric bar that serves up creative cocktails highlighting the distillery’s whiskeys.

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DARK ARTS WHISKEY HOUSE PHOTO FURNISHED

Fresh Bourbon Distilling Co.

377 E. Main St. • freshbourbon.com

Since 2017, Fresh Bourbon Distilling Co. has been working to make Kentucky’s signature spirit more approachable and inclusive than ever.

The company is spearheaded by Tia and Sean Edwards, who have been recognized by the state as the first Black distillery owners. The company launched its first bourbon in 2020, in partnership with the Paris, Kentucky-based Hartfield & Co. Distillery, and in September 2022 opened a tasting room in downtown Lexington. Describing its signature product as “gently sweet and approachable with surprising complexity and satisfying depth,” Fresh Bourbon is geared toward providing a new bourbon experience that caters to how tasters want to drink their bourbon, whether that’s neat, on the rocks or in a cocktail.

Visitors to the downtown Lexington facility can indulge in Fresh Bourbon’s spirits in a tasting room described as “sexy, elegant and upscale,” offering a unique sensory experience with taste and aroma pairings. The facility also offers a mixology course where guests can build their own Old-Fashioned cocktails.

In 2020, Fresh Bourbon announced plans to build a $5.4 million, 34,000 sq. ft. facility downtown, but a specific location has yet to be announced.

James E. Pepper

1228 Manchester St. #100 jamesepepper.com

Originally built by larger-than-life bourbon industrialist Colonel James E. Pepper, the James E. Pepper Distillery building was said to be the largest and most technologically advanced whiskey distillery in the United States at the time it originally opened in 1880. After that distillery closed in 1958, the campus housing its operations sat vacant until 2008. Since then, the original Pepper Distillery buildings have anchored one of Lexington’s top entertainment hubs, the Distillery District, with a variety of restaurants, music venues and other businesses having opened in and around the facility in recent years.

Late 2017 saw a full circle move when the James E. Pepper Distilling Co. recommenced operations in the original distillery, with a brand relaunch overseen by whiskey entrepreneur Amir Peay. Each of the brand’s current concoctions, crafted by master distiller Cody Giles, aim to embrace the brand’s near 250-year heritage while also pushing the boundaries of whiskey-making.

“The James E. Pepper Distillery is more than just a place to enjoy bourbon; it’s a living piece of Lexington’s history,” said operations assistant Katherine Foley. “We are proud to carry forward the story of one of America’s oldest whiskey brands, while also contributing to the vibrant culture of the Distillery District.”

FRESH BOURBON DISTILLING CO. PHOTO FURNISHED

JAMES E. PEPPER PHOTO FURNISHED

Lexington Brewing & Distilling Co.

401 Cross St. • lexingtonbrewingco.com

The only member of this list that produces beer in addition to spirits, Lexington Brewing & Distilling is home to products that include Town Branch Kentucky Straight Bourbon and Kentucky Bourbon Barrel Ale.

Founded in 1999 by the late Pearse Lyons, founder and president of Alltech, Inc., the company operated primarily as a brewery until the 2012 launch of its adjacent Town Branch Distillery, which marked the first new distillery in Lexington in over a century.

The company is now led by Lyons’ son Mark, who holds a Ph. D. in solid-state fermentation and has a love for brewing and distilling that has been carried down through many generations in his family. The company continues to break new ground, with pre-batched cocktails like Bourbonola, a Prohibition-style take on a bourbon and coke blending Town Branch Kentucky Straight Bourbon with cherry and vanilla cola.

RD1 Spirits

113 Turner Cmns. Way #110 • rd1spirits.com

Founded in 2020 and originally located in Lexington’s Distillery District, RD1 Spirits has quickly emerged as a bold voice in Kentucky bourbon. In May 2025, the brand opened a striking new $5 million, 10,215-square-foot facility in The Commons, a burgeoning 42-acre lifestyle and entertainment district located minutes from downtown.

The two-story destination blends work, life and play “in spirited fashion,” featuring an upstairs bourbon bar, speakeasy, wraparound patio and retail shop. The visitor center is designed to be more than just a tasting room—it’s a full sensory experience. Guests can explore interactive bourbon history exhibits, the immersive “RD1 Forest” focused on wood science, à-la-carte tours, barrel-thieving tastings, and VIP lab sessions led by Master Distiller Dr. Jarrad Gollihue, Ph.D., a former research scholar at the University of Kentucky’s James B. Beam Institute.

RD1’s lineup reflects its innovative ethos, with expressions that include a Kentucky Straight Bourbon finished with French oak, a Bourbon finished in rare Brazilian Amburana wood, a Double-finished Bourbon in oak and maple barrels, and a unique whiskey finished in Japanese Mizunara and French oak.

The most recent addition to the Kentucky Bourbon Trail, RD1 Spirits aims to welcome over 30,000 visitors annually, offering a modern take on heritage, flavor and community. n

RD1 DISTILLERY PHOTO FURNISHED

LEXINGTON BREWING & DISTILLING CO. PHOTO FURNISHED

Wise Bird's Cider-Brined Brat

with Homemade Banana Pepper Mustard & Diced Green Apples

Perfect for the crisp fall weather ahead, this recipe calls on not one, but two delicious local beverages to impart ﬂavor and zest: hard cider from Lexington’s Wise Bird Cider Co. (made with apples from Evans Orchard) for brining, and Ale-8-One in its zingy apple topping. Read on to ﬁnd out how to recreate at home this favorite recipe, which is also served at Wise Bird’s in-house restaurant, Little Fork.

RECIPE BY WISE BIRD CIDER’S LITTLE FORK KITCHEN | PHOTO BY MADYLIN GOINS

Cider-Brined Brats

Ingredients:

• 750 ml Wise Bird Cider’s Commonwealth Gold Hard Cider

• Fresh brats of your choosing

Directions:

Add cider to a pot large enough to hold your brats. Bring cider to a rolling boil. Reduce heat and simmer.

Add brats and simmer for 30 minutes. Remove brats and lightly fry/sear or grill until the outside is golden brown.

Banana Pepper Mustard

Ingredients:

• ¼ cup gluten-free flour

• 1 cup Dijon mustard

• 1 ½ cups sugar

• 32-ounce jar of banana pepper rings

• 1 cup apple cider vinegar

• 2 teaspoons salt

• ¼ cup water

Directions:

Add all ingredients to a blender/food processor and blend until smooth. Place mixture in a pot and bring to a rolling boil, while stirring constantly for five minutes. Remove from heat and let cool.

Crunchy Green Apple Topping

Ingredients:

• Granny Smith apples

• Bottle or can of Ale-8-One

Directions:

Dice apples and soak in Ale-8-One for 30 minutes. Add more apples if you want more of this zing-y topping.

Bring it all together!

Toast your brat bun, add your beautifully brined and seared brat, then add Banana Pepper Mustard and Crunchy Green Apple Topping to taste. n

Little Fork at Wise Bird Cider Co.

Wise Bird Cider Co.’s restaurant, Little Fork, offers a variety of both hand-held meals and fork-friendly bites with an emphasis on providing gluten-free items as well as vegetarian and vegan fare. Chef Sarah Prater’s menu is designed to provide delicious, easy-on-the-wallet dishes that pair with Wise Bird’s award-winning ciders, prioritizing locally-sourced ingredients from local organizations. Wise Bird is located in Lexington’s Distillery District and is open for dinner Tuesday through Sunday as well as lunch service Friday through Sunday.

PHOTOS BY MADYLIN GOINS

raise your glass.

Lexington Bourbon Week is back Nov. 6-15, 2025!

Join us for 10 days of unforgettable bourbon experiences, presented by Give270, the local organization that raises funds for nonpro ts through engaging, bourbon-focused events.

Sip your way through o -menu cocktail creations, sample exclusive tastings, explore distilleries, and score giveaways and surprises along the way. Discover new avors, celebrate your favorites, and be part of a week that brings the city together over the spirit we love.

Don’t miss your chance to toast, taste, and explore! Opportunities for sponsorship and restaurant/bar participation remain for a select few. Contact Amy at events@smileypete.com. lexingtonbourbonweek.com

DRINK OF THE MONTH

Black Magic

An incantation of rare woods and old-world bitterness, Black Magic channels the deep mystique of toasted Mizunara stave finished bourbon. Italian vermouth and bitter liqueur swirl with black walnut and orange, casting a spell that’s equal parts shadow and sophistication. A ritual best performed after dark.

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ ounces Dark Arts Whiskey House Straight Bourbon Finished with Toasted Mizunara Oak Staves

• ½ ounce Italian red bitter liqueur (Mazzura suggested)

• ½ ounce Italian sweet vermouth (Cocchi Vermouth di Torino suggested)

• ½ ounce walnut liqueur (Nux Alpina suggested)

• 2 dashes orange bitters (Bittercube suggested)

Method:

Combine all ingredients in a mixing glass with ice. Stir for 12 counts or until the glass is chilled.

Strain into rocks glass with a large ice cube. Garnish with an orange twist. n

RECIPE AND PHOTO BY DARK ARTS WHISKEY HOUSE

Events Calendar

CONCERTS & GIGS

Unknown Mortal Orchestra. Oct. 3. Psychedelic grooves meet lo-ﬁ intimacy with the kaleidoscopic sound of the New Zealand indie psych band Unknown Mortal Orchestra, which is deﬁned by hypnotic rhythms and a genre-defying approach to global grooves. 8 p.m. The Burl (outdoors), 375 Thompson Rd. www.theburlky.com

The Kentucky Gentlemen. Oct. 7. Twin brothers Brandon and Derek Campbell mix soulful harmonies with radio-ready polish for a unique sound blending country, pop and R&B. With breakout singles like “Vibin’” putting them on the Nashville map, the pair deliver a show that’s both homegrown and high-gloss. 8 p.m. The Burl, 375 Thompson Rd. www. theburlky.com

Kansas, Je erson Starship, Molly Hatchet. Oct. 9.

A classic rock triple bill hits Gatton Park as the legendary rockers Kansas joins forces with Je erson Starship and Molly Hatchet. From the timeless harmonies of “Carry On Wayward Son” to the cosmic rock of “Jane” and the Southern swagger of “Flirtin’ With Disaster,” this once-ina-lifetime show is a journey through rock history. 7 p.m. CommonSpirit Health Stage at Gatton Park, 795 Manchester St. gattonpark.org

Deafheaven. Oct. 12. Black metal collides with shoegaze in Deafheaven’s wall-ofsound live sets. Known for their critically acclaimed album “Sunbather,” the band pushes heavy music into soaring, cinematic territory.

8 p.m. Manchester Music Hall, 899 Manchester St. manchestermusichall.com

Jammy Bu et. Oct. 12. A tribute with a twist: local players mash up the easybreezy hits of Jimmy Bu ett with the improvisational ﬁre of jam bands. Expect “Margaritaville” stretched into a danceable jam session, beach balls in the air, and a celebratory vibe in honor of the king of the Parrot Heads. 8 p.m.

The Burl, 375 Thompson Rd. www.theburlky.com

Cole Chaney. Oct. 17. Eastern Kentucky singer-songwriter Cole Chaney delivers raw, plainspoken Americana rooted in the grit of Appalachian storytelling. With haunting vocals and anthems like “Ill Will Creek,” his live set feels both intimate and anthemic. 8 p.m. The Burl, 375 Thompson Rd. www.theburlky.com

Outside the Spotlight: Fred Lonberg-Holm, Keefe Jackson, Christoph Erb, Gabby Fluke-Mogul Quartet. Oct. 20. This powerhouse lineup unites Chicago cellist Fred LonbergHolm, reedist Keefe Jackson, Swiss saxophonist Christoph Erb, and violinist Gabby Fluke-Mogul for an evening of fearless improvisation. 7 p.m., 21c Museum Hotel. www.outsidethespotlight.org

Randy Travis. Oct. 23. One of country music’s most beloved voices, Randy Travis brings decades of hits, heartfelt gospel songs and timeless classics to the Opera House stage. 7:30 p.m. Lexington Opera House, 401 W. Short St. lexingtonoperahouse.com

Ole 60. Oct 30-31. Kentucky’s rising roots-rockers bring two nights of whiskeysoaked Americana, sharp musicianship, and heartfelt storytelling to The Burl for a two-night run. 8 p.m. The Burl, 375 Thompson Rd. www.theburlky.com

Deafheaven will perform at Manchester Music Hall on Oct. 12. PHOTO FURNISHED

ART & EXHIBITS

Figure It Out. On display through Oct. 15. This compelling group showcase is centered around the human figure and features works by Travis Adams, Thomas Scoon, Deanna Clayton, Bryan Randa and Jack Gramann. It highlights masterful interpretations of the body and face in glass, with each artist bringing a unique and collectible approach to figurative work. Gallery hours: Mon.-Tues., by appt.; Wed.-Sun., 12-6 p.m. Trifecta Glass • Art • Lounge, 243 Walton Ave. Trifectadesignstudio.com

Awe & Wonder: Photographs by Dobree Adams and Poems by Jonathan Greene. On display through Oct. 25. Ranging from the canyons of Southern California, through her home along the Kentucky River, and across the Atlantic into quiet corners of rural France, the 16 photographs presented here by Dobree Adams capture moments of startling reverence. The soft, darkened edges around many of these images function like an inhale before a careful effort. Poems by Jonathan Greene will accompany the photographs in a rich, comfortable dialogue, speaking of quiet rituals and returning presence. In this immersive interplay between visual and verbal, Adams and Greene weave a gentle communion that winds together poet, artist, viewer and world. Presented in conjunction with the Louisville Photo Biennial. Gallery hours Thurs.-Sun, 11 a.m.- 6 p.m. 193 SHOP, 193 N. Limestone.

PRHBTN 13. On display Oct. 10-Nov. 21. This annual exhibition takes pride in being a great opportunity for Kentucky artists of all disciplines to present artworks regardless of age, experience, media, discipline or subject matter. Known for its no-holds-barred ethos, the exhibit has resulted in displaying some of the most provocative artwork in the city each year. Gallery hours: Wed.-Sat., 12-5 p.m. Lexington Art League at the Loudoun House Gallery, 209 Castlewood Dr. www.lexingtonartleague.org

America! America! On display Oct. 10-Nov. 21. This exhibit featuring artists Kim Dixon and Ciara LeRoy explores and deconstructs what it means to be a citizen via both artists’ shared and unique experiences within the Black American diaspora. Using mixed media that includes textiles, painting and drawing on canvas, paper and wood, the exhibit also challenges high art stereotypes, particularly those targeting the crafting arts, such as quilting and needlework, as only inhabiting the domestic sphere. Directly dispelling the construct of “home” by highlighting varying conflicts that “we” as individuals must navigate in our everyday lives, the exhibit conveys powerful messages and disarms viewers, invoking nostalgia while prompting deeper reflection. Pam Miller Downtown Arts Center City Gallery, 141 Main St. www.lexingtonky.gov/ about-downtown-arts-center

Self and Others: Japanese Photography after 1968. On display through Dec. 20. This exhibition focuses on three innovations developed in Japan in the 1970s — are-bure-boke (grainy-blurry-out of focus), konpora (contemporary), and I-photography (first-person). Gallery hours: Tues.-Fri, 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Sat., 12-5 p.m. University of Kentucky Art Museum, 405 Rose St. finearts.uky.edu/art-museum

and Others" is an exhibit focusing on innovative Japanese photography techniques, including this piece by Masatoshi

On display at UK Art Museum through Dec. 20.

"Self

Naito.

PHOTO FURNISHED Works by Deanna Clayton (pictured here), Travis Adams, Thomas Scoon, Bryan Randa and Jack Gramann will be on display through Oct. 15 at Trifecta Glass • Art • Lounge.

PHOTO FURNISHED

"Monet's Water Lillies III" by Dobree Adams is among the photographs on display at "Awe & Wonder" exhibit at 193 SHOP, the satellite lcoation of gallery Institute 193.

Jo Koy. Oct. 3. Comedy superstar Jo Koy takes the stage with his mix of sharp observational humor, family stories and infectious energy. After selling out arenas around the world, Koy brings his latest tour to Lexington for one night only. 8 p.m. Singletary Center for the Arts, 405 Rose St. finearts.uky.edu

Nurse Blake: But Did You Die Tour? Oct. 7. Nurse, influencer, and comedian Blake Lynch transforms his real-life hospital experiences into laugh-out-loud stories about patients, coworkers and life in scrubs. His fresh, irreverent perspective makes this show as cathartic as it is hilarious. 7 p.m. Lexington Opera House, 401 W. Short St. lexingtonoperahouse.com

World Ballet Co.: “Cinderella.” Oct. 8. This enchanting production combines the timeless music of Prokofiev with stunning choreography and dazzling costumes. Featuring 40 professional dancers, the performance brings the fairy-tale story to life with elegance and breathtaking stagecraft. 7 p.m. Lexington Opera House, 401 W. Short St. lexingtonoperahouse.com

“Mrs. Doubtfire: The New Musical Comedy.” Oct. 10-12. Based on the hit film, this Broadway musical blends heartwarming family drama with comedy and show-stopping musical numbers. Follow Daniel Hillard’s hilarious transformation into everyone’s favorite nanny. Fri., 7:30 p.m.; Sat., 1 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.; Sun., 1 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. Lexington Opera House, 401 W. Short St. lexingtonoperahouse.com

LexPhil: The Witching Hour. Oct. 11. The Lexington Philharmonic’s 2025-’26 season will kick off with a thrilling program in which mystery, imagination and orchestral music collide. The night will begin with “This Midnight Hour” by Anna Clyne, an atmospheric work inspired by two works of poetry. Then acclaimed pianist Spencer Myer will join the orchestra for Liszt’s “Totentanz“ (Dance of Death). The evening will conclude with Berlioz’s “Symphonie Fantastique.” 7:30 p.m. Singletary Center for the Arts, 405 Rose St. www.lexphil.org

Adam Sandler

ADAM SANDLER; PHOTO FURNISHED

Scarefest. Oct. 14-19. Lexington’s premier horror and paranormal convention returns with six days of thrills, chills and celebrity encounters. Expect film screenings, panels, haunted attractions, meet-and-greets and a sprawling vendor floor filled with everything from spooky art to ghosthunting gear. Central Bank Center, 430 W. Vine St. scarefestweekend.com

Kentucky Ballet Theatre: “Dracula.” Oct. 18-19. A gothic ballet tradition, “Dracula” returns to the Opera House with eerie sets, dramatic costumes and choreography that marries classical technique with theatrical flair. Perfect for Halloween season, this production turns the legendary vampire tale into a mesmerizing dance spectacle. Sat., 7:30 p.m.; Sun., 2 p.m.Lexington Opera House, 401 W. Short St. www.kyballet.com

Deconstructing “Abbey Road" with Scott Freiman. Oct. 22. Musicologist and storyteller Scott Freiman dissects the Beatles’ landmark album track by track, revealing the studio secrets and cultural context behind the band’s 1969 masterpiece. A must for both lifelong fans and curious newcomers. 7:30 p.m. Singletary Center for the Arts, 405 Rose St. finearts.uky.edu

Everest Nepalese & Indian Cuisine

EVEREST CATERING

From birthdays to anniversaries to the ultimate tailgate, Everest Catering brings ﬂavor to every occasion. Whether it’s an intimate gathering or a big celebration, we’ll take care of the details so you can enjoy the moment.

Delicious. Memorable. Effortless. That’s Everest.

The perfect addition to your Keeneland and football tailgate parties! We oﬀer boxed lunches and sandwich platters for groups large or small.

PHOTO FURNISHED

Kentucky Ballet Theatre presents the gothic ballet tradition "Dracula" at the Lexington Opera House Oct. 18-19.

“I

- John D.

An Evening with Ebony G. Patterson

OCT

23

Internationally acclaimed Jamaican-born artist Ebony G. Patterson shares stories behind her vibrant, politically charged installations and mixed-media works. Diving into themes of beauty, identity and social justice, the talk will offer audiences rare insight into her creative process. 7:30 p.m. Singletary Center for the Arts, 405 Rose St. finearts.uky.edu

“The Love Song of R. Buckminster Fuller”: A Film by Sam Green with Live Score from Yo La Tengo. Oct. 24. Part documentary, part live concert, this unique event pairs filmmaker Sam Green’s exploration of visionary architect Buckminster Fuller with an original score by indie rock trio Yo La Tengo, performed live by the band. 7:30 p.m. Singletary Center for the Arts, 405 Rose St. finearts.uky.edu

Individualized College Planning/College Search Resumé Building ACT Test Prep Scholarships Navigate College Admissions/Financial Aid

Heather McMahan. Oct. 23. The Instagram-famous comedian and actress brings her bold, self-deprecating humor to Lexington. Known for her unfiltered takes on modern life, relationships and family, McMahan delivers an evening that’s equal parts cathartic and sidesplitting. 7 p.m. Lexington Opera House, 401 W. Short St. lexingtonoperahouse.com n Your

EBONY G. PATTERSON; PHOTO: FRANK ISHMAN, COURTESY OF THE ARTIST AND MONIQUE MELOCHE GALLERY, CHICAGO.

PETE’S PROPERTIES

Marne Ave. $235,000

Lincoln Ave. $262,000

Sherman Ave. $312,000 1140 Chinoe Rd. $370,000 1014 Aurora Ave. $390,000 721 Tremont Ave. $452,500 203 Bassett Ave. $500,000 430 Henry Clay Blvd. $505,000

Dr. $775,000 2128 Roswell Dr. $783,000 2253 Guilford Ln. $1,275,000 40514 3756 Bingham Dr. $275,000 2404 English Station Dr. $280,280 4772 Rhema Way $495,000 1704 Twain Ridge Dr. $507,000 2217 Dogwood Trace Blvd. $530,000 1321 Copper Creek Dr. $566,500 40515

966 Jairus Dr. $285,000 584 Southpoint Dr. $365,000 598 Southpoint Dr. $379,000 4712 Hobbs Way $412,000 4424 Brookridge Dr. $415,000 1074 Rockbridge Rd. $457,500 953 Firethorn Pl. $495,000 768 Emmett Creek Ln. $570,000 4213 Kitano Ct. $612,000 536 Brookwater Ln. $625,000 n

Recent arm’s length residential sales for this magazine’s distribution area. Information compiled by Fayette County Property Valuation Administrator David O’Neill. For more information on any of these properties, or others, please visit www.fayettepva.com.

BIGGEST MOVER: 368 QUEENSWAY DR. $1,530,000