Meet The Shapira Family

Show us some ID and we’ll show you some great whiskey.

Since 1935, the Shapira family has been at the helm of the largest family-owned and operated distillery in America. Discover their quintessential American success story.

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Taking A Chance On Bourbon

In 1933, the end of Prohibition sparked new interest in Kentucky Bourbon. In Bardstown, Ed Shapira and his brothers agreed to invest in a new distillery, and eventually bought it outright. They had no inventory, no warehousing, and no brand.

Taking A Chance On Bourbon

It takes patience and perseverance to get something that is of great quality.
MAX Shapira

The Rise Of Heaven Hill

Shortly after, the Shapiras released Old Heaven Hill Bottled-in-Bond and upon its release, it became the best selling whiskey in the State of Kentucky. The rest, as they say, is history.

Today, we’re satisfying consumer interest with what is uniquely an American, iconic business.
MAX Shapira

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From Past to Present

At Heaven Hill Distillery, a lot has changed over the years. But one thing remains the same: the Shapira family’s commitment to producing great Kentucky Bourbon.

Looking To The Future

Under the stewardship of the second generation, Heaven Hill Distillery has grown to become the fourth largest supplier of distilled spirits in the United States. With a third generation now in place, the family legacy continues.

Because we are family-owned, we bring our independence and entrepreneurial spirit.
Kate Shapira Latts

Watch The Full Story

In the late 1800s, a Russian immigrant brought his entrepreneurial spirit to America. He settled in Kentucky, started a successful business, and raised five sons: the Shapira brothers. Learn more about the family that started it all.