Staghorn, Atlanta-based spirits company and the name behind the new Garrard County Distilling Co, has appointed Jeff Hopmayer (pictured) to its advisory board. Hopmayer, who founded bulk bourbon and whisky supplier Brindiamo Group, will provide counsel for Staghorn’s premium spirit business.

 

The immediate focus for Hopmayer, in his new board role, will be to advise on the Garrard County Distilling Co as it is established and expanded. The distillery began production in January 2024 in Lexington, Kentucky — a dry county until November 2023. Around 10,000 barrels of whisky have been produced at the distillery in the three months since its opening.

 

Staghorn lauds Hopmayer’s reputation as one of “excellence and innovation” within the industry. Hopmayer has led Brindiamo Group be one of the leading suppliers of bulk bourbon and whisky in the world, as well as expanding its services to include consultancy, asset management, barrel supply, and storage facilities.

 

Hopmayer’s involvement in and connection to the whisky industry runs deep, with initiatives such as the Brindiamo Penthouse in Kentucky and support for the World Whiskies Awards.

 

Staghorn founder Ray Franklin commented: “Jeff and I have been friends for years and as I was building the team that would support my vision for Staghorn, I knew immediately that he needed to be involved. Jeff has a keen ability to not only see potential, but to know the fastest, most beneficial way to capitalise on it. His relationships in the industry are second to none.”

 

In February, Garrard County Distilling Co appointed Lisa Wicker as its first master distiller.