As traditional lenders retreat from the spirits space, private capital is stepping in to fill the gap. InvestBev, the leading private equity firm in the adult beverage industry, has sealed an eight-figure financing agreement with Registered Distillery One (RD1), a rising star in Kentucky’s bourbon scene. This deal arrives at a critical juncture for the bourbon market, where traditional lending remains tight, and independent brands are gaining traction among consumers. The capital will fuel RD1’s expansion, from boosting production to exploring new markets.
The bourbon industry continues to thrive, driven by strong consumer demand for craft and independent brands, as seen in the broader spirits market’s steady performance in 2024. Yet, challenges like constrained financing and locked-up inventory value persist. InvestBev’s private credit arm, InvestBev Credit, has stepped in decisively, deploying nearly $30 million in 2025 to help distilleries and brand operators like RD1 unlock their potential. Their flexible credit terms and deep industry know-how make them a lifeline for founders navigating a capital-scarce landscape.
For RD1, led by founder Mike Tetterton, this partnership offers more than just funds. InvestBev’s strategic support, industry connections, and tailored financial solutions position RD1 to scale efficiently. Tetterton praised the seamless process, noting InvestBev’s role as an ideal partner for this growth phase. RD1’s innovative approach, such as its wood-finished bourbon tasting sets featuring French Oak and Brazilian Amburana, adds a unique edge to its market presence. The deal aligns with InvestBev’s mission to back independent brands with smart capital, a strategy rooted in founder Brian Rosen’s third-generation expertise in the sector.
This agreement signals broader implications. For RD1, it’s a chance to cement its place in a competitive market, potentially rolling out premium lines or entering new regions. For InvestBev, it reinforces their reputation as a go-to financier for high-potential operators. The industry, meanwhile, may see this as a blueprint—proof that private capital can drive innovation where banks fall short. With bourbon’s popularity soaring and consumer interest in craft brands growing, InvestBev’s model could reshape how independent distilleries fund their ambitions.
Looking ahead, the bourbon sector faces both opportunity and uncertainty. Rising raw material costs and supply chain hurdles loom, but demand for unique, founder-led brands remains strong. RD1, with InvestBev’s backing, is well-placed to capitalize on this trend. Whether this financing approach becomes a new standard for the industry remains an open question, but it’s clear that partnerships like this are setting a new pace for bourbon’s future.
