FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
August 6, 2021
Contact: Press@paul.senate.gov, 202-224-4343
WASHINGTON, D.C. – This week, U.S. Senator Rand Paul (R-KY) Ranking Member of the U.S. Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, recognized Three Boys Farm Distillery of Graefenburg, Kentucky, as the U.S. Senate Small Business of the Week.
Dr. Paul entered the following into the Congressional Record:
Mr. PAUL. Mr. President, as Ranking Member of the Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, each week I recognize an outstanding Kentucky small business that exemplifies the American entrepreneurial spirit. This week, it is my privilege to recognize Three Boys Farm Distillery in Graefenburg, Kentucky, as the Senate Small Business of the Week.
In 2011, Ross and Heather Caldwell moved their family from Colorado to Kentucky, and quickly pursued their dream of opening a distillery. Before moving to Kentucky, Ross and Heather purchased a 122-acre farm providing them a space to open a distillery, and have remaining land to graze cattle and grow corn for use in their single barrel bourbon and whiskey. Like many small business owners, the journey to open their business was no easy task, as Ross and Heather navigated red tape and burdensome regulations before getting their business off the ground. After many hurdles, Three Boys Farm Distillery opened its doors in 2013, named in tribute to the Caldwells’ triplets: Patrick, Andrew, and Ethan. Over the years, family has remained the foundation of this small business with Ross serving as Master Distiller, but growth has led to hiring nine additional employees, including another master distiller.
Today, Three Boys Farm Distillery is renowned for its bourbon and rye whiskey. Their products are sold throughout the United States, and have drawn praise nationwide. The distillery’s bourbon and whiskey tastings are a hit among Kentuckians and tour groups, alike, drawing visitors from around the United States and abroad. Uniquely, Three Boys Farm Distillery allows guests to sample and bottle their own whiskey and bourbon straight from the barrel. Over the years, Three Boys Farm Distillery has also become a popular event venue for weddings and family reunions. Additionally, the distillery supports other local artisans and small businesses by selling their goods at the distillery’s on-site gift shop.
Like many small businesses, Three Boys Farm Distillery was faced with challenges caused by the coronavirus pandemic but overcame them by adapting their business model throughout the ever-changing government regulations. The distillery expanded their shipping operations to provide long-time consumers access to their products, and relied on the recommendations from their loyal customers to grow their customer base when distillery tours and tastings were prohibited. Furthermore, Three Boys Farm Distillery expanded its bottling operations to assist outside companies bottle and label their products for sale. While expanding the distillery’s operations helped Three Boys Farm Distillery stay afloat during the pandemic, longtime friend of the Caldwells, Walter Zausch, a University of Kentucky alum, provided additional assistance by investing in the business and becoming a majority owner. Rebounding from the pandemic, this summer, Three Boys Farm Distillery began hosting live concerts featuring local artists, and continues to provide Kentuckians with a place to relax, build community, and enjoy a glass of bourbon with friends.
Three Boys Farm Distillery is a remarkable example of the resilience and adaptability of locally-owned small businesses. Small businesses, like Three Boys Farm Distillery, form the heart of towns across Kentucky, and play a critical role in Kentucky’s bourbon and whiskey industry. Congratulations to Ross, Heather, Walter, and the entire team at Three Boys Farm Distillery. I wish them the best of luck, and I look forward to watching their continued growth and success in Kentucky.
As Ranking Member of the Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, Dr. Paul continues the tradition of honoring America’s small businesses and entrepreneurs. The Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship oversees proposed legislation on matters relating to the Small Business Administration and investigates all problems relating to America’s small businesses.
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