Old Forester Distillery
- Product: Ridgelight
- Location: Louisville KY
- Contractor: Messer Construction
- Architect: Bravura Architects
- Specs:
- CSI Code: 08 63 00
- 24948
About this Project
If you’re a fan of good sippin’ whiskey, you probably already know about Old Forester. Old Forester, America’s first bottled bourbon, was introduced by George Garvin Brown more than 140 years ago. Brown believed Old Forester was so pure and consistent that he sealed it, signed it, and pledged “There is nothing better in the market.”
The company that owns Old Forester, Brown-Forman, is opening a new distillery and whiskey experience to celebrate Old Forester. As a part of Kentucky’s rich history, it’s only right that the distillery is located in the historic Whiskey District of Louisville.

New overhead skylight to enhance the whiskey-tasting experience
As part of the revitalized location, Crystal Structures manufactured and installed an overhead skylight 26′ wide by 47′ long. Under the skylight the distillery opens to exhibits, tasting rooms, bourbon-making demonstrations, and event spaces. The new distillery also marks the continued comeback of bourbon interests along Louisville’s historic Whiskey Row, especially after a fire in 2016 threatened to destroy the location.
What’s exciting about this project, aside from the bourbon, is knowing that we’ve helped bring an old building back to life. It is a great feeling.