Whiskey Fungus Removal in London, KY

Whiskey fungus (Baudoinia compniacensis), also called bourbon fungus, is a black, sooty fungus that feeds on ethanol vapor. As bourbon ages in barrels, a small amount of alcohol evaporates through the wood (the “angel’s share”). Wherever that vapor drifts and settles, the fungus can grow.

That is why it shows up near bourbon rickhouses and barrel warehouses. Sazerac has built a barrel warehouse campus at Rowland Acres in London, and some London-area homeowners have reported more of the black growth on their property.

Signs You Have Whiskey Fungus

• A black, soot-like film on siding, brick, roofs, gutters, fences or concrete
• Dark coating that looks like smoke or soot damage but has no fire source
• Black growth that comes back after you scrub or pressure wash it
• Neighbors’ homes, signs and outdoor furniture showing the same black coating

Why Soft Washing, Not High Pressure

Blasting whiskey fungus with a high-pressure wand can force water behind siding, strip paint and damage shingles, and it often only removes the surface layer. We soft wash instead: a cleaning solution applied at low pressure, given time to work, then gently rinsed. It is safer for your surfaces and cleans the growth off, not just the top layer.

As long as barrels are aging nearby, the fungus can return. Many homeowners near warehouses plan on a regular maintenance cleaning, so ask us about a schedule that fits your property.