Kyle Merklein

Kyle Merklein’s passion for bourbon and distillation is rooted in both science and craftsmanship. As Master Distiller at Holladay Distillery in Weston, Missouri, he combines his technical expertise with a deep appreciation for the art of whiskey-making, ensuring that every bottle reflects the highest standards of quality and innovation.

Born in September 1988 and raised in Phillipsburg, Kansas, Merklein developed an early interest in science, agriculture, and fermentation—foundations that would later shape his career in spirits production. Growing up around agriculture, he was drawn to farming, though his father cautioned him about its unpredictability and the uncontrollable challenges of weather. Instead, he pursued his passion for science, earning a B.S. in Biological Systems Engineering and an M.S. in Biological and Agricultural Engineering from Kansas State University. His graduate research focused on optimizing fermentation systems, setting the stage for his future in the distilled spirits industry.

Kyle’s professional journey began at Cargill, where he worked as a Production Shift Manager, refining glycerin and producing biodiesel. This role allowed him to apply his academic knowledge of food safety and operational efficiency in a practical setting. While pursuing his master’s degree, he transitioned to RBC Medical Innovations as a Systems Test Engineer, gaining valuable experience in product development and quality assurance. However, his interest in learning more about fermentation and its production led him to the distilled spirits industry. He joined MGP Ingredients in Atchison, Kansas, as a Production Shift Manager working with neutral grain spirits and gin—it was this experience and opportunity which confirmed his interest in distilling.

In 2016, Kyle joined Holladay Distillery as the distillery’s Research and Development Manager, focusing on bourbon production and new product development. His understanding of fermentation and aging, combined with his innovative mindset, quickly positioned him as a natural fit for the role of Master Distiller of which he would attain that same year. While Merklein’s promotion within Holladay was off to a fast start, he understood the bourbon industry requires patience.  Emphasizing quality from the start, Kyle believed to create an exceptional distillate one must not assign a predetermined age, allowing the barrel and aging to shape a final product the consumer will enjoy. Holladay Distillery would wait six years before first introducing their Ben Holladay Bottled in Bond expression in 2022.  Under his leadership, Holladay continues to experiment with different barrels and finishes, particularly in their Ancient Cave collection, pushing the boundaries of bourbon innovation.

Kyle resides in Atchison, Kansas, with his wife and two children. He enjoys tackling the technical complexities of bourbon-making, whether it's resolving production challenges or analyzing flavor compounds using a GC/MS chromatogram to identify molecular structures and chemical properties. He remains excited about the future of the industry, embracing both tradition and innovation. His philosophy centers around the measure of time—making decisions today that will yield the best results years down the road. Whether it's producing a high-quality distillate, selecting the right barrels, or patiently aging bourbon in the rickhouse, he firmly believes that dedication and consistency will always lead to excellence.

Holladay Distillery is the largest producer of bourbon in Missouri, with distribution across the United States and internationally. The distillery is located just 16 miles (25 minutes) northwest of Kansas City International Airport.

Contributed By Brad Martens, Columbia, Missouri