Dan Callaway Named Master Blender at Lofted Spirits, after overseeing innovation across Bardstown Bourbon and Green River Whiskey
A Strategic Appointment at a Pivotal Time
Lofted Spirits has officially named Dan Callaway as Master Blender, a role in which he will lead whiskey innovation and product development across the company’s growing portfolio—including Bardstown Bourbon Company, Green River Whiskey, and Lofted Custom Spirits.
Callaway’s promotion reflects Lofted Spirits’ commitment to innovation rooted in quality and transparency. In his new position, Callaway will guide blending and finishing strategies, develop new products, and lead high-profile collaborations both in-house and for custom distilling clients.
An Unconventional Path to Whiskey Leadership
Callaway brings a distinctive background to the role. A classically trained musician, he performed with the Louisiana Philharmonic and toured with the Hollywood Concert Orchestra before transitioning into hospitality, where he became a certified sommelier. His shift into whiskey brought both artistry and technical precision into focus—skills that continue to shape his approach to blending.
Raising the Bar with Global Collaborations
During his tenure at Bardstown Bourbon, Callaway helped introduce a series of experimental and collaborative finishes that have received wide acclaim. These include whiskey expressions aged in barrels from Amrut Whisky (India), Foursquare Rum (Barbados), Amaro Nonino (Italy), and Château de Laubade (France).
These partnerships not only expanded the brand’s flavor profiles but also helped reposition American whiskey as a global player in innovation and quality.
Accolades and Industry Recognition
The impact of Callaway’s work is reflected in the accolades the company has earned. Bardstown Bourbon was named Icons of Whisky’s Global Brand Innovator of the Year (2025), one of its releases topped Whisky Advocate‘s ratings as the highest-rated American whiskey in 2024, and the IWSC named Lofted Spirits Worldwide Whisky Producer of the Year in 2023.
These honors underscore Callaway’s growing reputation for pushing the boundaries of traditional whiskey-making while maintaining strong ties to authenticity.
Supporting Custom Spirits and Contract Innovation
Beyond Bardstown Bourbon and Green River Whiskey, Callaway will continue to influence Lofted Custom Spirits, the company’s contract production and private label division. This division offers clients tailored support for distillation, aging, blending, and bottling—a growing segment that benefits from Callaway’s ability to match flavor profiles to brand identities.
Industry Engagement and Leadership
Callaway’s leadership extends beyond the distillery. He serves as Vice Chairman of the Kentucky Bourbon Festival and is a judge for the International Wine and Spirits Competition. His involvement ensures that Lofted Spirits stays connected to broader industry conversations and maintains a strong presence within the whiskey community.
Looking Ahead
John Hargrove, CEO of Lofted Spirits, commented on the appointment: “Dan’s blend of creative insight and technical expertise continues to elevate our brands and our partners. His leadership as Master Blender reflects our vision to push boundaries without compromising quality.”
As Dan Callaway steps into this expanded role, he brings with him a track record of innovation and a deep respect for the craft—qualities that position him well to shape the future of American whiskey at Lofted Spirits.
Dan has Been Featured on The Bourbon Road
Dan Callaway has also been a recurring guest on The Bourbon Road podcast, where he has shared insights into his approach to blending, innovation, and the evolving whiskey landscape. He was first featured in Episode 32 and returned more recently in Episode 394, offering listeners a behind-the-scenes look at both his personal journey and the creative processes behind Bardstown Bourbon Company. Dan continues to be a close friend of the show and a respected voice in the whiskey community.
Leave A Comment