PIKEVILLE, Ky. (WYMT) -Brothers Wright Distilling Co. is brewing up something new. Thursday, the company announced its acquisition of Pikeville’s Dueling Barrels Brewery and Distillery.
The company, based in Pike County, will expand its reach into the more than 30,000 square foot storefront in Downtown Pikeville previously owned by Alltech’s Lyons Brewing and Distilling Co. The acquisition includes the brewery and distillery, Pearse’s Place restaurant, the welcome center and the tasting room.
“This acquisition represents more than just an expansion of our operations — it’s a deepening of our investment in Pikeville, Pike County, and the future of Eastern Kentucky,” said Shannon Wright, co-founder of Brothers Wright Distilling Co. “We’re proud to be part of the downtown Pikeville scene and are committed to growing not just our business, but the entire region’s economy through job creation, tourism, and celebrating the culture that makes this place home.”
According to a news release, the space has been “a cornerstone of Pikeville’s economic revitalization and will now enter an exciting new chapter under local, family-owned leadership.”
“Dueling Barrels Brewery & Distillery reflects two of our family’s greatest passions — craft brewing and distilling as well as community impact through entrepreneurship,” said Mark Lyons, CEO of Lyons Brewing & Distilling. “Although my father never had the opportunity to open the Pikeville distillery he had dreamt of and dedicated himself to making a reality, my mother and I know that he would be thrilled to see Dueling Barrels begin a new chapter with an entrepreneurial family who share our passion for the craft. We are honored to see our distillery become the Wright Brothers’ new home and are excited about what is in store for the City of Pikeville and spirits enthusiasts everywhere.”
The news release said Brothers Wright will centralize its primary production at the new location, with plans to install more equipment to increase production.
“The existing 350-gallon moonshine still will be relocated to the company’s Aflex site, where Brothers Wright is actively in construction on a 12,000-square-foot expansion featuring a barrel filling line, packaging line, coal mining museum, restaurant, and live music venue. The Aflex location — home to the brand’s unique underground barrel-aging mine — will also offer dedicated tours showcasing the region’s history, innovative spirit, and underground facilities,” the release said.
Pearse’s Place will remain open and its workers will stay in place, according to the release. However, the restaurant will be relocated to the ground floor, with street access on Second Street.
“The move will enhance visibility and community interaction, connecting more directly to Pikeville’s recently revitalized Second Street. A small stage is planned for the current retail space to support local music acts, alongside an expansion of the upstairs kitchen and a refreshed food and beverage program,” the release said. “The upstairs space will also be made available as a rentable venue for private events, local business functions, and community gatherings.”
Kendall Wright, the other co-founders of Brothers Wright, said it is an honor to continue the vision brought to the city by the Lyons family.
“Dueling Barrels has become a symbol of pride for the community, and we’re excited to build on that legacy — infusing new energy and experiences while preserving the spirit and story that make this place so special,” Wright said.
The exact timeline for the changes and grand opening events have not been announced.
Copyright 2025 WYMT. All rights reserved.
