Augusta Distillery—the Augusta, Kentucky-based company behind the Buckner’s series and Old Route 8 bourbons—proudly announces the appointment of Alexandra “Alex” Castle as its first master distiller and director of distillery operations. A native of Burlington, Kentucky, Castle brings her extensive bourbon distilling expertise to her home state, overseeing all production operations in anticipation of one of the bourbon industry’s most eagerly awaited distillery unveilings.
“We are delighted to welcome Alex to our team,” said Ryan Edwards, president of Augusta Distillery. “Alex’s stellar reputation precedes her. Her exceptional bourbon and distilling knowledge will provide an immediate boost to Augusta Distillery’s mission to produce world-class bourbon. We consider ourselves fortunate to have her on board.”
“I’m incredibly excited to be joining the team at Augusta,” said Castle. “I have always dreamed of returning to my home state and making Kentucky bourbon whiskey once more. I am grateful for the team at Augusta Distillery and the trust they’re putting in me. I know it’s going to be an amazing journey and we’re just getting started.”
Castle’s affinity for whiskey traces back to her upbringing in the heart of the country’s bourbon belt. Her journey led her to pursue a bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering from the University of Kentucky. Most recently, Castle was the master distiller at Old Dominick Distillery in Memphis, Tennessee. Prior to that, she was a distiller at Wild Turkey in Lawrenceburg, Ken.
In addition to establishing herself as a renowned distiller, Castle has been a devoted industry advocate. In 2020, she was named the first female president of the Tennessee Distillers Guild, for which she has been instrumental in bolstering tourism for Tenn.’s burgeoning whiskey trail. She has also been active in industry advocacy groups, including her role as a board member of the Distilled Spirits Council of the United States.
Castle will officially join Augusta Distillery to fire up the company’s stills on May 28. The company’s initial bourbon barrels will roll out in June.