Brothers Wright Distilling Co. has acquired Dueling Barrels Brewery & Distillery, Pearse’s Place restaurant, welcome center and tasting room in downtown Pikeville, Kentucky. This milestone marks a significant expansion and investment for Brothers Wright Distilling Co. in the region’s economy and the state’s already rich distilling industry. The 30,000-square-foot-plus facility, previously owned and operated by Alltech’s Lyons Brewing & Distilling Co., has been a cornerstone of Pikeville’s economic revitalization and will now enter an exciting new chapter under local, family-owned leadership.
“This acquisition represents more than just an expansion of our operations—it’s a deepening of our investment in Pikeville, Pike County, and the future of Eastern Kentucky,” says Shannon Wright, co-founder of Brothers Wright Distilling Co. “We’re proud to be part of the downtown Pikeville scene and are committed to growing not just our business, but the entire region’s economy through job creation, tourism, and celebrating the culture that makes this place home.”
Dueling Barrels was originally envisioned by the late Dr. Pearse Lyons and his wife, Deirdre Lyons, co-founders of Alltech, who saw the Appalachian region’s landscape, people, and rich traditions as reminiscent of their Irish heritage. Together, they brought to life a facility that was not only Eastern Kentucky’s first combined beer, bourbon, and moonshine operation, but also a symbol of pride and economic potential for the community.
“Dueling Barrels Brewery & Distillery reflects two of our family’s greatest passions — craft brewing and distilling as well as community impact through entrepreneurship,” says Mark Lyons, CEO of Lyons Brewing & Distilling. “Although my father never had the opportunity to open the Pikeville distillery he had dreamt of and dedicated himself to making a reality, my mother and I know that he would be thrilled to see Dueling Barrels begin a new chapter with an entrepreneurial family who share our passion for the craft. We are honored to see our distillery become the Wright Brothers’ new home and are excited about what is in store for the City of Pikeville and spirits enthusiasts everywhere.”
Founded on a 1,200-acre reclaimed mining property, later converted to a farm in Pike Co unty, Brothers Wright Distilling Co. was established by brothers Shannon and Kendall Wright. The company is known for aging its Kentucky straight bourbon whiskey in an over
100-year-old repurposed underground coal mine — a method that reflects the region’s res ilience, ingenuity, and history. The brothers’ deep respect for Appalachian culture and co al-mining heritage has shaped their values and commitment to authentic craftsmanship.
With the acquisition, Brothers Wright will now centralize its primary spirits production in Pikeville. The downtown facility includes three Vendome copper pot stills, 19 stainless steel fermenters, two traditional cypress fermenters, and beer brewing equipment capable of producing 40,000 barrels annually. Plans are underway to install a 14-inch Vendome column still, significantly increasing capacity for both in-house production and contract distilling services.
The existing 350-gallon moonshine still will be relocated to the company’s Aflex site, where Brothers Wright is actively in construction on a 12,000-square-foot expansion featuring a barrel filling line, packaging line, coal mining museum, restaurant, and live music venue.
Pearse’s Place, the on-site 150-seat restaurant, will remain open during the transition with current sta^ retained. However, Brothers Wright plans to relocate the restaurant from the upstairs space to the more accessible ground floor on Second Street. The move will enhance visibility and community interaction, connecting more directly to Pikeville’s recently revitalized second street. A small stage is planned for the current retail space to support local music acts, alongside an expansion of the upstairs kitchen and a refreshed food and beverage program. The upstairs space will also be made available as a rentable venue for private events, local business functions, and community gatherings.
“We are honored to carry forward the vision the Lyons family brought to life in Pikeville,” says Kendall Wright, co-founder of Brothers Wright Distilling Co. “Dueling Barrels has become a symbol of pride for the community, and we’re excited to build on that legacy — infusing new energy and experiences while preserving the spirit and story that make this place so special.”
This acquisition not only reinforces and expands Pikeville’s role in the Kentucky’s bourbon industry but also serves as a catalyst for local tourism, job creation, and cultural preservation. Brothers Wright Distilling Co. is committed to working hand-in-hand with the Pikeville community to create a meaningful and lasting impact.
More details about upcoming changes, new o^erings, and grand reopening events will be announced in the coming months.