Diageo to build carbon neutral distillery in US

Global beverage company Diageo is constructing its new Kentucky whiskey distillery, expected to be carbon neutral.

Diageo claimed that once completed, the distillery would be one of the largest in North America and a first for the company.

Initially, the distillery will engage in the production of Bulleit Bourbon whiskey, expected to complement the existing production at the Bulleit Distilling in Shelbyville, Kentucky.

Diageo North America Supply president Perry Jones said: “As a company, we know that our long-term sustainable growth depends on reducing our reliance on fossil fuels that contribute to climate change.

“This groundbreaking undertaking to electrify our operations and then power them with renewable electricity will result in one of the largest carbon-neutral distilleries in North America.

“This is a significant step to strengthen our commitment to minimizing our carbon emissions and will result in an important reduction of Diageo’s environmental impact on a global level.”

The initiative is said to strengthen the company’s global commitment to reduce its carbon emissions and address climate change.

Diageo added that the distillery being built in Lebanon, Kentucky would be entirely powered by renewable electricity and will have the capacity to produce up to ten million proof gallons per year.

The 72,000ft² distillery would feature dry house, warehousing facilities and equipped with electrode boilers. Steam generated by the boilers will be used for cooking, distillation and drying process.

In addition to Bulleit, Diageo’s Lebanon Distillery will have the capacity to distil a variety of bourbon and American whiskey brands.

Recently, Diageo has announced a programme to support the recovery of pubs and bars from the Covid-19 pandemic.