Governor Andy Beshear today celebrated the grand opening of Horse Soldier Farms, a new $200 million distillery and full-scale bourbon tourism attraction in Somerset, Pulaski County, Kentucky. This significant investment adds another major project to Kentucky's thriving bourbon and tourism sectors, which saw a record $14.6 billion in economic impact in 2025.
Horse Soldier Farms, which opens its doors this week, features a 50,000-square-foot distillery visitor center and The Outpost retail center. The project, initially announced in December 2019, is expected to significantly boost the local economy, complementing Lake Cumberland as a premier off-the-water attraction and drawing visitors to the region.
Gov. Beshear emphasized bourbon's role in the state's prosperity. "Bourbon is essential to Kentucky’s success, creating high-quality jobs and helping drive our record-breaking tourism industry across our state," said Gov. Beshear. "I am happy to be here in Somerset celebrating the next step for Horse Soldier Bourbon and the grand opening of Horse Soldier Farms."
John Koko, president and CEO of Horse Soldier Bourbon, reflected on the company's origins. "In many ways, this feels like coming home," Koko said, noting their journey began at Fort Campbell and their return to build a legacy. The company, officially established in 2015, traces its roots to elite Green Berets, dubbed "Horse Soldiers," deployed after 9/11. Each bottle of their award-winning bourbon is molded by steel from the World Trade Center towers.
Local officials also lauded the development. Pulaski County Judge/Executive Marshall Todd highlighted the distillery's fit, stating, "As a veteran-owned business built on service, sacrifice and the American spirit, Horse Soldier Farms is a perfect fit for our community." Somerset Mayor Alan Keck added that the project represents more than an investment, but a shared belief in faith, family, service, and patriotism. Eric Gregory, president of the Kentucky Distillers’ Association, welcomed Horse Soldier Farms to the Kentucky Bourbon Trail tour.
This new attraction further strengthens Kentucky's $8.6 billion bourbon and spirits industry. Since the start of the Beshear administration, the spirits sector has seen over $5.4 billion in planned investments and more than 2,100 new jobs announced, contributing to the state's record economic growth and creating opportunities for future generations.