Kentucky Distillers Raise A Glass To Honor Dave Pickerell

November 2, 2018

Fred Minnick (left) and Dave Pickerell (right) on stage during the Bourbon + Workshop at Bourbon & Beyond.
Photo courtesy of Bourbon +

“The Kentucky Distillers’ Association and its 40 members are saddened and shocked at the untimely passing of our friend and colleague, Dave Pickerell. In addition to his past duties as Master Distiller at Maker’s Mark, Dave was a longtime member of the KDA Board of Directors and was instrumental in the relaunch of the KDA as a full-time organization in 2007. We all know and remember Dave as a larger-than-life figure, always present at whiskey events with his trademark hat, holding court and educating throngs of fans on the art and science of distilling. Dave has left an indelible influence on many brands, and few will ever match his passion for whiskey and Kentucky Bourbon. We hope whiskey fans around the world will keep Dave and his family in their prayers, and raise a glass of their favorite spirit tonight to honor his memory and celebrate his life and legacy. He will be missed.”

• KDA President Eric Gregory