Sake brewing with Kentucky water
LOUISVILLE, KY – In a state renowned for its bourbon and burgeoning craft brewing industry, a new player has emerged in the spirits industry, and its driving force is also one of Kentucky’s abundant natural resources – water. The Void Sake Co., is Kentucky’s first sake brewery, casting a new flavor profile into the state’s growing spirits and beverage sector.
The company, founded by Brandon Floan, Joe Rice and Justin LeVaughn, was born out of their shared experience in the craft brewing sector and a desire to launch a venture of their own. The concept was birthed from the idea of filling a “void” in the Kentucky spirits industry. Rice shared, “We all individually talked about pursuing something in the craft beverage space,” We played around with the idea that there was a “void” of sake across the country, especially in Kentucky. So, we saw the opportunity to fill that void and to bring something different to the state.”
LeVaughn, who possesses a deep passion for brewing, was fascinated by koji, a crucial ingredient in sake that is a mold that grows on rice. After utilizing it to make a beer for Lexington’s Ethereal Brewing, he and his partners ventured into sake brewing. The experimentation resulted in a brew that was both unique and different from conventional beer brewing and winemaking.
Central to their brewing processes is water, which LeVaughn explained played a pivotal role in the sake-making process. They discovered that Kentucky’s water is ideal for crafting delicious sake. “It’s extremely important. From washing the rice, soaking the rice, steaming the rice, and then, just like any other beverage, it’s the majority of the actual beverage,” LeVaughn elucidated. “Our water in Kentucky leads to a very strong, healthy fermentation, which is nice.”
The Void’s new taproom was officially opened in February and now offers a considerable expansion from its humble beginnings. Serving as a host to local musicians and food trucks, the venue is now a vibrant addition to Lexington’s growing nightlife and craft beverage scene. The overwhelming success of The Void can be attributed in part to Kentucky’s reliable water supply and supportive infrastructure.
The Void Sake Co. symbolizes innovation in Kentucky’s thriving and diversified spirits industry. As they toast to a bright and spirited future, one thing is clear – Kentucky’s growing economy is ceaselessly fueled by water.
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