A native of Adair County, Kentucky, Head Distiller Cody Giles is a graduate of the University of Kentucky Chemical Engineering program, and their Distillation, Wine, and Brewing Studies program.  After completing his formal education, he joined the Pepper Distillery in 2017 while under construction and has been a critical member of the team since the distillery filled its first barrel.  Cody has overseen the distillation, maturation, and bottling of multiple whiskies, as well as expansion projects at the distillery in Lexington and warehouse property in Midway.

Since 2008, Owner/Operator Amir Peay has dedicated himself to the re-establishment of the iconic Pepper whiskey brand and the resurrection of the historic distillery in Lexington. With over 25 years of experience in the fine drinks and whiskey industry, Peay has been recognized as ‘one of Kentucky’s finest global bourbon ambassadors’ (Eric Gregory, President, Kentucky Distillers Association). He received the prestigious 2021 Craft Member of the Year Award from the Distilled Spirits Council of the United States—an honor bestowed upon leaders for their contributions to advancing the craft distiller community.