The state of Kentucky has a reputation for quality spirits, especially bourbon, resulting in the state being known as the “Bourbon Capital of the World”. Roughly 95% of the world’s bourbon is produced within state borders, and the industry is one of the state’s largest draws.
Now, an often-overlooked aspect of the distillation process faces the challenges of modern trade. Cooperage, the process of making the barrels used for distilleries, is a market niche having to deal with wood shortages and creating sustainable business practices. But according to 4th generation cooper Brad Boswell, the reward is well worth the struggle.
“The barrels, you know, that we make, primarily go to the spirits industry, so it’s pretty important relationships. Y’know, they’re long-term relationships, and I guess that brings me to the point that we’re looking forward also to the next generation, to the next three generations, looking 70 to 100 years down the road.”
Boswell, CEO of Independent Stave Company, aims to maintain the practice his family is known for while also bringing a new generation of coopers into Kentucky’s spirits industry. Hear more with Brad Boswell on Eastern Standard on WEKU.
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