Est. 1880
In 1880, Colonel A.S. Winstead founded Silk Velvet in Henderson, Kentucky, crafting a bourbon that quickly gained national recognition for its unparalleled smoothness. With a commitment to handcrafted sour mash whiskey, Winstead built a legacy that defined excellence in Kentucky bourbon.
Prohibition
Silk Velvet flourished for decades, becoming a staple of quality bourbon, but like many legendary brands, it fell silent with Prohibition. The Winstead Distillery shuttered its doors, and a bourbon that once reached all corners of the country faded into history.
Revival
After more than a century of silence, Silk Velvet is reborn. The Hargis family, lifelong Hendersonians, partnered with Jacob Call, an 8th-generation master distiller, to hand-select barrels that honor the legacy of the original Silk Velvet. With every bottle, the spirit of Colonel Winstead’s vision lives on—rich, velvety, and unforgettable.
A Legacy Reborn
Honoring the Past
First crafted in 1880 by Colonel A.S. Winstead, Silk Velvet was built on quality, craftsmanship, and a passion for great bourbon. Over the decades, its reputation spread across the nation. Today, we uphold that standard, ensuring every bottle reflects the same smooth character and attention to detail that made Silk Velvet a legend.
A Legacy for the Future
More than a revival, this is a continuation of a story worth telling. With its roots in the heritage of Kentucky whiskey-making, Silk Velvet preserves the artistry of the past while delivering a bourbon that speaks to today’s discerning drinkers. The next chapter has begun—one sip at a time.
Crafted to Perfection
Silk Velvet is a 6-year-old Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, crafted with 75% corn, 21% rye, and 4% malted barley. Aged in #4 charred new white oak barrels, it delivers a bold yet velvety-smooth drinking experience.
Each barrel is hand-selected by Jacob Call and the Hargis Family, ensuring every bottle meets the highest standard of quality, character, and craftsmanship. Jacob Call, an 8th-generation master distiller, comes from one of Kentucky’s oldest bourbon families, dating back to 1791. Over his career, he has produced some of the most awarded bourbons in the industry, including multiple Whisky Advocate Top 20 placements. Now, at the helm of Western Kentucky Distilling Co., he brings decades of expertise to every bottle of Silk Velvet.
With rich, complex flavors and a silky smooth finish, Silk Velvet is more than just a bourbon—it’s a tribute to tradition, blending history with modern refinement.
