Glenmore Distillery Logo

Glenmore Distillery

Region
  • USA, Kentucky
Awards
Website
  • https://www.sazerac.com/tms/distribution/the-glenmore-distillery.html
Phone Number
  • +12709261110, 270-688-9207
Address
  • 2001 E 4th St, Owensboro, KY 42303

Industrial warehouse with

History of Glenmore Distillery

The Beginnings

Glenmore Distillery Company, originally founded as R. Monarch Distillery in 1849 in Owensboro, Kentucky, has a storied history in bourbon whiskey production.

The company faced bankruptcy in 1898 but continued producing notable brands like Kentucky Tavern and Glenmore.

The Thompson Era

In 1901, James Thompson and his brother Francis P. Thompson acquired the company for $30,000, renaming it Glenmore Distillery Company.

Under their guidance, the Kentucky Tavern trademark was registered in 1903, and the Old Thompson brand was introduced in 1904.

After James Thompson’s death in 1924, his sons, Col. Frank B. and James P. Thompson, took over, successfully navigating the Prohibition era by maintaining Glenmore as a medicinal whiskey warehouse.

Expansion and Innovation

Glenmore Distillery expanded its portfolio over the years. In 1944, it acquired the Yellowstone Bourbon brand. The company also ventured into importing whiskies and cordials through subsidiaries like Mr. Boston, Foreign Vintages, and Viking Distillery.

Innovations included the introduction of Glenmore vodka in 1955 and Glenmore Gin in 1959, along with breaking the ban on using women in distilled spirits advertising.

Ownership Changes and Modern Times

The Thompson family controlled Glenmore until 1991, after which it was acquired by Guinness and merged with Schenley Industries to form United Distillers.

In 1995, Barton Brands took over, and in 2009, the Sazerac Company purchased it. Glenmore, now a bottling plant, resumed distillation in 2016, focusing on rum production.

Recent Developments

In November 2023, Glenmore Distillery made headlines with the reported theft of 21 pallets of bourbon, valued at approximately $70,000. However, it was later revealed to be a logistical error, not a criminal act, drawing parallels to the “Pappygate” heist.

What To Do Nearby Glenmore Distillery

  • Brew Bridge Brewery: Located just 4.86 km from the distillery, Brew Bridge Brewery offers local beer, a full bar, restaurant, live music, events, and a vibrant patio​​.
  • Charles Medley Distillers: At a distance of 6.51 km, this distillery, acquired by TerrePURE Kentucky Distillers, adds to the rich bourbon culture of Owensboro​​.
  • Misty Meadow Winery: Situated 10.63 km away, this winery provides a serene experience for wine enthusiasts​​.
  • Smothers Park: A world-class playground with fountain shows, waterfalls, and a splash area, perfect for families​​.
  • O.Z. Tyler Distillery: Known for high-quality whiskey production, they offer tours and taste tests​​.
  • Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame & Museum: Discover the history and current state of Kentucky’s bluegrass music, with regular concerts held in their 450-seat theater​​.
  • Owensboro Antique Mall: Explore a unique collection of rare items and antiques since 1983​​.
  • RiverPark Center: A cultural hub for Broadway productions, musical concerts, movie nights, and more​​.
  • Yellow Creek Park: Ideal for outdoor activities with softball fields, nature trails, and picnic spots​​.
  • Towne Square Mall: A major shopping center with diverse stores, salons, and restaurants​​.
  • Owensboro Museum of Science and History: Features hands-on exhibits, highlighting Owensboro’s and Kentucky’s coal mining history​​.

Frequently Asked Questions

What restaurants are near Glenmore Distillery?

  • Colby’s Fine Food & Spirits: It has a rating of 4.5 stars on Google Maps. Their address is 204 W 3rd St, Owensboro, KY 42303.
    For reservations, you can reach out to them on their phone at +12706854239. 
  • Cheddar’s Scratch Kitchen: It has a rating of 4.2 stars on Google Maps. Their address is 3040 Highland Pointe Dr, Owensboro, KY 42303.
    For reservations, you can reach out to them on their phone at +12706852092. 
  • Papa Grande Mexican Restaurant: It has a rating of 4.4 stars on Google Maps. Their address is 544 Southtown Blvd, Owensboro, KY 42303.
    For reservations, you can reach out to them on their phone at +12706831615.

What hotels are near Glenmore Distillery?

  • Courtyard by Marriott Owensboro: It has a rating of 4.3 stars on Google Maps. Their address is 3120 Highland Pointe Dr, Owensboro, KY 42303.
    For reservations, you can reach out to them on their phone at +12706854140.