Kentucky Grit

BRANDING, PACKAGE DESIGN

B.H. James Distillers is a spirits producer based in Adairville, Kentucky, a region steeped in pre-Prohibition whiskey-making history. Focused on small-batch craftsmanship, the brand honors Kentucky’s heritage while creating distinctive spirits that stand out in today’s market.

Kentucky Grit Corn Whiskey bottle from Logan County, backlit to highlight label
Close-up of vintage style labels emphasizing quality guarantee, authenticity, and ingredients for whiskey or bourbon distillers, featuring barrels and the city of Adairville, Kentucky.

For their Kentucky Grit family of small-batch American whiskeys, a new wordmark and label design were developed to capture the true Kentucky spirit—and, as the name suggests, a bit of grit. Drawing inspiration from
pre-Prohibition whiskey aesthetics, the design incorporates custom seals, stamps, and a tax band for an authentic, handcrafted feel. The updated design was also adapted for their 100ml flask packaging.

Kentucky Grit Corn Whiskey bottle from Logan County, with second bottle in background
Kentucky Grit Corn Whiskey bottle from Logan County, displayed with whiskey glass
Label for Kentucky Grit whiskey, aged a minimum of 9 months, crafted with grain from Logan County, Kentucky, distiller Shawn McCormick, bottled at B.H. James Distillers, Adaireville, Kentucky, noting wisdom, moderation, responsibility, enjoyment.
Kentucky Grit Corn Whiskey bottle from Logan County, close-up of label details
Kentucky Grit Corn Whiskey bottle from Logan County, detail shot of tax band label
Close-up of a United States Geological Survey badge with the words "GEOLOGICAL SURVEY" and "USA" visible.
Kentucky Grit Corn Whiskey from Logan County logo on rustic wooden background

Photography: George E. Baker Jr.

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