Friday morning, April 24, Silver Trail Distillery in Hardin, Kentucky experienced a massive equipment failure that caused an explosion and burned the distillery to the ground. Second and third distillers, Jay and Kyle Rogers, were airlifted to Vanderbilt University Hospital, where they have been in critical condition in the burn unit since. Thankfully, according to facebook updates, both are expected to recover from their injuries. In the meantime, several benefits and fundraising accounts have been announced to help cover medical expenses and help their loved ones through this tragedy.
The Silver Trail Distillery is a member of the Kentucky Bourbon Trail Craft Tour. Thier main product if 100% corn, unaged LBL Moonshine, which comes in a variety of flavors and proofs. Several Kentucky distilleries have offered to help with production while Silver Trail rebuilds. It’s worth noting that’s not something you are likely to see in other industries. Kentucky distilleries have the distinction of operating within a special community where people are willing to lend a helping hand to their neighbors. It’s during tragedies such as this one the rest of the world gets to see just how special Kentucky’s distilling industry really is.
The Kentucky Distillers’ Association has set up online donations for Jay and Kyle, which can be accessed here. All of bourbon country is coming together in support of these two distillers. The KDA, Bourbon Blog, and Fred Minnick are doing an excellent job of keeping the story updated on their respective sites. Click here for Bourbon Blog’s coverage and click here for Fred Minnick’s coverage. Best wishes to Jay and Kyle during their recovery!
Photo Courtesy of the Marshall County Daily
