Jeptha Creed Distillery
“Use your passion and drive to master your chosen craft. Mastering your craft will give you the confidence and courage to pursue your entrepreneurial endeavors, and the respect you need and deserve will follow.”
Joyce Nethery, co-owner of Jeptha Creed Distillery
We recently spent a day in Shelby County, where we were wowed at Jeptha Creed Distillery.
Jeptha Creed Distillery is a female-owned and operated distillery on a five-generation farm family. The enterprise was opened in 2016 by mother-daughter duo, Joyce and Autumn Nethery, on 64 acres of family land, where many of the ingredients are grown. When asked about what it’s like being a female business owner in Kentucky’s tourism industry, Autumn Nethery said, “The bourbon industry has always been very warm, welcoming, and respectful. Everyone in the industry really wants to see each other succeed. We are blessed to be a part of Kentucky’s thriving tourism industry and love the privilege we have of sharing our passion with others.”
During our visit, we opted for the barrel tasting, and wow!! When our fabulous tour guide opened the barn doors – we were blown away by the beauty of the barn. What a superb atmosphere for tasting bourbon. If you have the time – this is a MUST bourbon experience in Kentucky.
The barn is set up with comfortable leather seating and a barrel ready to thief. Our guide, Alex, explained the fascinating history of Jeptha Creed and told several endearing stories about the Nethery family. She also explained how they chose their heirloom Bloody Butcher Corn, how they raise this corn themselves, and how the corn transitions in color on the cob. Joyce Nethery believes that their corn is a factor in the welcome they have received from the bourbon industry. Joyce said, “I also think one of the reasons the industry has been so welcoming is because of our authenticity. From growing our Bloody Butcher corn, to hand bottling and labeling our spirits, we’re really putting in the work and I think the industry has really respected that.” During our visit, we could see the authenticity shine through and found it all so interesting.
Of course, the top of the experience was getting to use the whiskey thief to take the bourbon straight out of the barrel for a taste. As each barrel is different – each one of these tastings would be a completely new experience. And, if you choose, you can take a bottle home straight from the barrel to enjoy again and again.
They are releasing their 6-Year Wheated Bourbon at the beginning of May, so that would make it a great time to visit! If you don’t have time for the barrel tasting experience, they do offer a free tasting in their retail space as well as a full bar. They also have a cafe on site and offer a summer concert series in their outdoor amphitheater. The Creed Cafe is currently open from Thursday-Sunday and pizza is their specialty! We hope you enjoy your visit as much as we did!