LOST LANTERN DECLARES 2023 THE SUMMER OF BOURBON

WEYBRIDGE, VT (June 14, 2023)—The bourbon world has evolved dramatically in the 21st century. Once in steep decline, bourbon has been reborn and is more popular than it has been in half a century. That has led to the proliferation of bourbon producers across the country, making America’s signature spirit in places where it was never made before. Great bourbon now comes from across the United States, from Nevada’s arid deserts to Texas’ sprawling plains, from the snowbelt of Ohio, to the rugged mountains of Colorado, and, of course, from its historic heartland of Kentucky.

Capturing this dynamic moment in the bourbon landscape, Lost Lantern, the award-winning independent bottler of American Whiskey founded by Nora Ganley-Roper and Adam Polonski, decided to shine a light on the depth and breadth of bourbon. “As an independent bottler, we routinely work with all styles of American whiskey, including bourbon. However, we have never devoted such a large release entirely to one single style of whiskey,” commented Polonski. “But as America’s iconic spirit, bourbon demands it. The bourbon world has transformed, and we want to showcase the incredible quality and ingenuity coming from all over the country.” 

Welcome to the Summer of Bourbon. 

Lost Lantern’s Summer of Bourbon includes eight whiskies ranging across all three of its product lines: the Blend Series (blends of whiskies from multiple distilleries), the Single Distillery Series (blends of multiple casks from a single distillery that showcase a unique side of that distillery) and the Single Cask Series (whiskies from a single barrel from a single distillery).

Beginning July 26th, the full Summer of Bourbon Collection will be available for sale online at LostLanternWhiskey.com and Seelbachs.com. Select releases will be available in California, New York, Kentucky, and Alberta, Canada.

BLEND SERIES

• Lost Lantern Far-Flung Bourbon (582 Bottles | 136.8 Proof) SRP: $110

SINGLE DISTILLERY SERIES

• Lost Lantern Soaring Spice Frey Ranch Distillery Nevada Straight Bourbon Whiskey (900 Btls | 127.6 Proof) SRP: $100

SINGLE CASK SERIES

• Lost Lantern Frey Ranch Distillery Nevada Straight Bourbon Single Cask (217 Btls | 137.2 Proof) SRP: $110
• Lost Lantern Boulder Spirits Colorado Straight Bourbon Single Cask (151 Btls | 142.6 Proof) SRP: $120
• Lost Lantern Ironroot Republic Texas Straight Bourbon Single Cask (167 Btls | 137.3 Proof) SRP: $120
• Lost Lantern Still Austin Texas Straight Bourbon Single Cask (167 Btls | 103.8 Proof) SRP: $80
• Lost Lantern Tom’s Foolery Ohio Straight Bourbon Single Cask (171 Btls | 113.8 Proof) SRP: $120
• Lost Lantern New Riff Kentucky Straight Bourbon Single Cask (214 Btls | 114.2 Proof) SRP: $90

All the Summer of Bourbon releases are non-chill-filtered, bottled at natural cask strength, and transparently labeled with the source distillery or distilleries on the label.

The Summer of Bourbon includes the first new entry in Lost Lantern’s Blend Series since 2020, when the independent bottler introduced American Vatted Malt Edition No. 1. Far-Flung Bourbon is a blend of straight bourbons from four distilleries in four states that have never been blended before: Frey Ranch in Nevada, Boulder Spirits in Colorado, Watershed Distillery in Ohio, and Still Austin Whiskey Co. in Texas. The release also includes the first bourbon in Lost Lantern’s Single Distillery Series: Soaring Spice, from Frey Ranch Distillery in Nevada. And finally, it includes six different single casks from six distilleries in five states. Three of these distilleries are returning favorites: Frey Ranch in Nevada, Boulder Spirits in Colorado, and Ironroot Republic in Texas. Three are first-time Lost Lantern partners: Still Austin in Texas, Tom’s Foolery in Ohio, and New Riff in Kentucky.

“The Summer of Bourbon shows that great bourbon can take many different forms,” Ganley-Roper said. “It can be made in many different ways in climates and aging conditions that are utterly different from each other, having a huge impact on flavor. This incredible diversity of styles and flavors is part of what makes the bourbon world so exciting.” Each distillery in the Summer of Bourbon collection was carefully chosen to showcase this depth and breadth. Together, they paint a portrait of the true range and quality of bourbon.

…Let the Summer of Bourbon begin!

ABOUT LOST LANTERN

Founded by Nora Ganley-Roper and Adam Polonski, Lost Lantern is an award-winning independent bottler of American whiskey. In 2023, they were named Independent Bottler of the Year at the global Icons of Whisky Awards in London. The company seeks out the most unique and exciting whiskies being made across the U.S. and releases them as single casks and blends, always with a deep commitment to transparency.

For more information about Lost Lantern, to learn about upcoming, available and retired whiskies, or to subscribe to Lost Lantern’s newsletter, please visit LostLanternWhiskey.com.

Engage with Lost Lantern Whiskey on the following channels:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lostlanternwhiskey 
• Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/lostlanternwhiskey 
• Twitter: https://twitter.com/LostLanternDram 

CRAIGELLACHIE® BOTTLES 37 YEAR OLD LIMITED EDITION

HAMILTON, BERMUDA, 21^st June 2023 – Craigellachie Single Malt is pleased to announce the limited edition release of CRAIGELLACHIE® 37 Year Old Bourbon Cask.

Craigellachie distillery sits atop a rock overlooking the confluence of two great rivers, the Fiddich and the Spey. Built by whisky icons Peter Mackie and Alexander Edward in 1891, it is one of few in Scotland to have retained ‘worm tubs’ to cool its spirit. It crafts a style of whisky that remains true to itself. Fruity yet robust, fragrant yet weighty.

Distilled in 1984, the newly launched CRAIGELLACHIE 37 Year Old was first matured in refill casks before being transferred to first-fill Bourbon casks for finishing, allowing for even more depth and complexity in this bold and brooding Single Malt.

Malt Master, Stephanie Macleod comments “Slumbering in refill casks for more than three decades has really allowed for Craigellachie’s challenging distillery style to shine through. The pineapple flavour note Craigellachie is so well known for has aged beautifully. Finishing in first-fill casks  – one of the most influential types of cask, in terms of their contribution to the flavour – has bestowed notes of creamy coconut, vanilla and citrus to the aged malt, giving it a boost of indulgent complexity.”

Adding “The aroma opens with notes of pineapple tarte tatin and crème anglaise, balanced with soft cereals and notes of toasted banana bread. Faint whispers of fire embers emerge with the addition of water then fade to spicy vanilla and delicate oak-derived coconut. The palate is boldly complex with sweet acidity at first, mellowing to soft fruits and almonds with a long, indulgent finish.”

Bottled at 46.5% ABV, and limited to 3,012 bottles, Craigellachie 37 Year Old will be initially made available in travel retail for an exclusive two month period with GEBR. HEINEMANN until 1^st August in Istanbul, Frankfurt and Amsterdam. The expression will then be made available in the following markets: UK, Germany, France, China and Taiwan, priced at £3,800 / $3,245.

ABOUT CRAIGELLACHIE SINGLE MALT SCOTCH WHISKY:

CRAIGELLACHIE began production in 1891, built by Peter Mackie and Alexander Edward high on the craggy rock upon which the village of Craigellachie stands, above the confluence of two great rivers in the very heart of Speyside.

Described as “old-fashioned” even in 1891, staying true to traditions the distillery still uses worm tubs to cool the sprit, bestowing extra flavour and creating a distinctive muscular character. CRAIGELLACHIE is famously robust and challenging in style.

The brand’s core portfolio is comprised of CRAIGELLACHIE 13 Years Old, CRAIGELLACHIE 17 Years Old and CRAIGELLACHIE 23 Years Old.

The single malt brand of CRAIGELLACHIE is part of the portfolio of Bacardi Limited, headquartered in Hamilton, Bermuda. Bacardi Limited refers to the Bacardi group of companies, including Bacardi International Limited.

On top of the world – Bimber achieves the highest bottle of single malt on Earth

Bimber Distillery today announced that a bottle of its single malt whisky had reached the summit of Mt. Lhotse in Nepal – the fourth highest mountain in the world. At a height of 8,516 metres, this feat surpasses the previous record set in 1993 by over 2,000 metres.

During May 2023, Founder Member Philip Pinchin strove to climb Lhotse to raise funds for medical charity Cobalt. As part of Bimber’s support for this heroic endeavour, a unique marriage of three different cask types was created, including some of the distillery’s oldest and finest stock. A sample of the ‘Lhotse Challenge 2023’ release accompanied the climbing team from London all the way to Nepal and finally on the 24^th May 2023 the bottle was brought to the summit of the mountain.

Following the competition of the climb, the summit bottle has now been returned to Bimber and will shortly be auctioned together with a full-sized 70cl edition presented with a hand-painted label to raise additional funds for Cobalt.

Speaking of the achievement Bimber spokesperson Matt McKay said: “We were astounded to discover that the climbing team had successfully reached the summit of Lhotse with the bottle of Bimber single malt. Similarly to all of the world’s highest mountains – climbs of this height are extraordinarily challenging to undertake and even more so to complete. To achieve the summit *and* to take the time to photograph the Bimber Lhotse Challenge 2023 bottle at the top is just remarkable. Together with our generous members and supporters we have raised over £7,000 for Philip’s charity climb – achieving the highest bottle of single malt on Earth at the same time makes us feel on top of the world!”

www.bimberdistillery.co.uk

About Bimber

Bimber Distillery produces world-class single malt whisky, handcrafted with passion in West London. As a leading distiller of English whisky, we combine generations of rich distilling heritage, with the finest quality ingredients to create the ultimate craft whisky experience.

The Macallan and Grupo Estévez announce partnership

We are delighted to announce that The Macallan has formed a partnership with Bodegas Grupo Estévez, S.L., in an affirmation of the extraordinary lengths the brand will go to ensure that its Single Malt Scotch Whisky is matured in the finest quality Sherry-seasoned oak casks.

Igor Boyadjian, MD, The Macallan, said the joint venture with Grupo Estévez and their superb and historic Sherries is the next natural step in The Macallan’s pursuit of incomparable craftsmanship and whisky mastery, ensuring a sustainable supply of highest-quality Sherry production for our Sherry-seasoned casks.

Igor said: “Our partnership with Grupo Estévez builds on The Macallan’s long-standing, deep relationship with the Jerez community and with our wide range of valued suppliers in the Sherry industry that have always played a critical role in the quality of our exceptional Scotch Whisky.

“We hand select our Sherry-seasoned oak casks from Jerez for richness and complexity. The partnership with Grupo Estévez demonstrates the creativity and innovation that has driven The Macallan since it was founded almost 200 years ago and continues the brand’s evolution through masters collaborating with masters.”

Grupo Estévez, led by CEO José Ramón Estévez, are owners of renowned vineyards and bodegas in Jerez’s “Sherry Triangle” where they make and mature the ultra-premium Valdespino brand of Sherries and aperitifs.  Valdespino is one of the most historic and prestigious bodegas in Jerez, dating back to 1264 and having ownership of exclusive vineyards in the Pago de Macharnudo, considered the “Grand Cru” of Jerez.

Under this new partnership, the Valdespino brand of ultra-premium Sherries and aperitifs will be added to the Edrington portfolio and their growth will be supported by the distribution and marketing capabilities of The Macallan in selected international markets. The expertise of Sherry Wine making will be retained through the existing leadership team led by Grupo Estévez CEO, José Ramón Estévez.

José Ramón Estévez said he and his family were incredibly pleased to be forming a joint venture with The Macallan, and explained that up till now, Grupo Estévez has focused on production of their ultra-premium Sherries and aperitifs.

He said: “This will be the first time we have used our beautiful Sherry for cask seasoning, and we are so pleased that we will do this exclusively for The Macallan, which is synonymous with the highest quality Scotch Whisky. We look forward to contributing to that quality in the years ahead through the seasoning of The Macallan casks with our Sherry.

“We are also extremely excited to be working with The Macallan team to help build our exceptional Valdespino Sherries and aperitifs internationally. Both The Macallan and Grupo Estévez have a shared commitment to quality for our consumers and respect for the societies we live and work in and to the environment.”

Scott McCroskie, CEO of Edrington said: “The Estévez family are a perfect partner for The Macallan in Jerez, owning some of the finest Sherries and Vermouths in the world, and custodians of such historic vineyards and bodegas. This is a partnership full of promise for The Macallan in the brand’s constant quest to continue producing exceptional quality Single Malt Scotch Whiskies that are so well-loved by consumers around the globe.”

The Kentucky Distillers’ Association Selects Lewis

For Brand Refresh of its Legendary

Kentucky Bourbon Trail® Program

FRANKFORT, Ky. – The Kentucky Distillers’ Association today announced its selection of Lewis to refresh its Kentucky Bourbon Trail® branding assets ahead of the world-famous tourism attraction’s 25-year anniversary next year.

Founded in 1951, Lewis is a full-service marketing agency that delivers business growth at pivotal times for organizations in categories from healthcare to beverage marketing to education, based on insights from their own proprietary business intelligence and data science, to deliver provable results with measurable return on investment.

Lewis is located in Nashville, Tenn. and has 100 total employees working across three offices including Birmingham, Ala. and Mobile, Ala. Creative work from Lewis has won hundreds of local, regional and national awards, and the agency has been internationally recognized with feature stories in Communication Arts, Graphis, and Novum. Graphis ranked Lewis as one of the top 15 advertising agencies worldwide for its creative product.

Mandy Ryan, the KDA’s Director of Kentucky Bourbon Trail® Experiences, said the historic non-profit trade group received dozens of proposals from around the world to refresh the hallmark tourism program that the KDA founded in 1999.

“It was impressive to see the breadth of talent and incredible enthusiasm this project evoked from so many great agencies,” she said. “ Within that accomplished field, Lewis’ proposal immediately caught our attention.”

Ryan said the selection committee also was swayed by the Lewis team’s personable and passionate approach. “Their work is modern and engaging, and their excitement about this project put them over the top.

“We believe the expertise Lewis brings will provide the perfect approach to shepherd us into the KBT®’s next era.”

The last branding project took place in 2009 when only eight distilleries participated in the KBT® program. That number is now 42 distilleries, including 24 on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail Craft Tour®, created in 2012 as the first tour in the country to showcase smaller distilleries.

“It’s been incredible to witness how much KBT® has grown and evolved in the last 13 years,” Ryan said. “As we near the KBT’s 25th anniversary, we needed a refreshed look, feel and voice reflecting today’s Kentucky Bourbon culture and its affluent, diverse demographic.”

Additionally, Lewis and the KDA are exploring new digital tools to help tourists plan and guide their way across the birthplace of Bourbon. “In 2009, smart phones had just reached the market and there wasn’t much demand for digital assets,” Ryan said.

“Now people rely on their phones to plan their trips and navigate the Commonwealth’s scenic byways. Our new image must uphold our rich distilling legacy but help move tourism resources into the modern age, reflecting and welcoming the contemporary Bourbon consumer.”

Katie Peninger, VP Account Service at Lewis, said, “We were already thrilled about the opportunity to work on something as legendary as the Kentucky Bourbon Trail®, but the minute we met them in person, there was an instant connection that just felt comfortable. We knew they were our people.”

Peninger said the agency’s work would build upon their previous brand experience with successful beverage companies as well as Lewis’ considerable tourism, economic development and placemaking experience. “It’s the perfect combination of needs for an agency like ours.”

About Lewis

Lewis is a full-service marketing agency that delivers business growth at pivotal moments for companies. With more than 100 employees at offices in Nashville, Tenn., Birmingham, Ala., and Mobile, Ala., Lewis develops internationally-acclaimed branding and creative advertising campaigns, based on our own business intelligence and data science, to deliver provable results with measurable ROI. Learn more at www.lewiscommunications.com.

About The Kentucky Bourbon Trail®

The Kentucky Bourbon Trail® and Kentucky Bourbon Trail Craft Tour® are among the region’s most popular tourism attractions, with total attendance exceeding 2 million visits each year.

Guests come from all 50 states and around the world, with more than 70 percent from outside Kentucky.

The KBT® has advanced Kentucky’s hospitality industry through Bourbon-themed restaurants, hotels, tour companies and more. And, the KDA has led the way in modernizing Kentucky’s archaic alcohol laws to help distilleries reach a Napa Valley level of amenities and attractions.

Bourbon is one of Kentucky’s most treasured industries, a booming $9 billion economic and tourism powerhouse sustaining more than 22,500 jobs with an annual payroll topping $1.23 billion each year.

A key export, the iconic industry is currently in the middle of a $5.2 billion building boom, from innovative new tourism experiences to expanded production facilities, bottling centers and aging warehouses, all to meet the growing global thirst for Kentucky Bourbon.

Bourbon production has soared more than 475% since the turn of the century.

Kentucky now boasts more than 11.4 million barrels of Bourbon aging in warehouses across the Bluegrass, the most in its revered distilling history. Distillers filled more than 2.6 million barrels last year alone, the fourth year in a row that production topped the 2 million mark.

Learn more at www.kybourbontrail.com and www.kybourbon.com.

Founded in 1880, the Kentucky Distillers’ Association is the legendary voice for Kentucky’s signature Bourbon and distilled spirits industry. Its diverse and growing membership produces the overwhelming majority of the world’s Bourbon, from historic, global brands to emerging micro distilleries that are fostering the next generation of the Commonwealth’s landmark economic engine and its thriving, timeless craft. Member benefits include media relations, international trade development, private sampling events, technical assistance, economic development support, networking, legal defense, marketing strategies, governmental and regulatory advocacy and innovative tourism experiences through the KDA’s world-famous Kentucky Bourbon Trail® and Kentucky Bourbon Trail Craft Tour® adventures. A 501(c)(6) nonprofit organization, the KDA maintains an open membership policy, champions a strong commitment to the responsible and moderate consumption of spirits, and fights to curb underage drinking and drunk driving. Learn more at www.kybourbon.com and www.kybourbontrail.com 

New independent whisky bottler Halcyon Spirits unveils its inaugural release

— A 30 Year Old Macallan (matured in a first fill sherry cask) will be the first whisky released by the independent bottling brand —

A new family-owned independent whisky bottler, Halcyon Spirits, has launched today and debuted its first-ever release – a single cask Macallan 30 Year Old which was distilled in 1993.

The independent bottling brand, which is based in Aberdeenshire, was developed by brothers Daniel and Craig Milne, who also co-founded global auction platform Whisky Hammer and whisky e-retailer Still Spirit.

The Macallan 30 Year Old has been matured in a first fill sherry cask and bottled by Halcyon Spirits at 49.8% ABV cask strength. Priced at £2,950 per bottle, only 238 bottles are available for purchase online via the Halcyon Spirits website.

The whisky has been described by David Robertson, an independent whisky expert and former Macallan Master Distiller, as “a superb example of a well matured Spanish oak sherry vintage whisky, displaying many of the classic characteristics of a 25–35-year-old Macallan.”

To support global action on climate change, Halcyon Spirits will fund the planting of ten trees for every bottle sold, meaning this inaugural release alone will result in 2,380 trees being planted.

Daniel and Craig Milne launched Halcyon Spirits following the recent completion of a state-of-the-art cask warehouse housing over 2,000 casks – a decision that allows the brothers to securely store, mature, and bottle whisky from Scotland’s most sought-after distilleries.

The casks selected by the Halcyon team are bottled on site in Aberdeenshire. As single cask releases, only a few hundred bottles will be available from each cask, with this inaugural release marking the first of just a few must-have releases from Halcyon Spirits planned for this year.

Daniel Milne, Co-Founder and Managing Director of Halcyon Spirits, said: “Launching Halcyon Spirits has been a true passion project for my brother Craig and I. As whisky fanatics ourselves, our goal is to be able to find and share incredible whiskies with others.

“The name ‘Halcyon’ encapsulates our dedication to bottle exceptional whiskies which, when enjoyed, can allow our customers to relive memories of joy and nostalgia. The name also has deep significance to our family as it pays homage to our grandfather’s fishing boat, Halcyon BF187.

“We are in a fortunate position to have direct access to a fantastic selection of quality maturing whisky casks, which makes the journey of selection and bottling incredibly exciting.”

To find out more about Halcyon Spirits, visit www.halcyonspirits.com

Tasting Notes

By David Robertson, independent whisky expert and former Macallan Master Distiller

Colour – Mahogany with rich red highlights. Terrific beading and viscosity.

Nose – Rich dried fruits – prunes, dates, figs and raisins. Intense old-style orange zest marmalade. Treacle and vanilla toffee sweetness. A cornucopia of redolent spices – cloves, cracked black pepper, aniseed and liquorice. Roasted tropical fruits – pineapple and mango – and polished antique oak.

Taste – Deliciously powerful, intense, tannic Spanish oak. Spices of cloves, ginger, nutmeg and cinnamon. Sweet treacle and vanilla toffee and fudge.

Finish – Lingering, long, beautifully drying and moreish. Mature oak spices with dried fruits and a late fresh orange marmalade finish. 

About Halcyon Spirits

Halcyon Spirits is a family-owned independent bottling brand based in Aberdeenshire, Scotland. It was incorporated in 2020 by Daniel and Craig Milne, two brothers with an enduring passion for whisky, before launching its inaugural release in June 2023.

As founders of the Whisky Hammer auction platform and Still Spirit online whisky e-retailer, and having recently completed the build of a state of the art cask warehouse, releasing their own independent whisky bottler was the next step in a long-held ambition.

To find out more about Halcyon Spirits, visit www.halcyonspirits.com

Heaven Hill Distillery Launches Square 6 Wheated Bourbon

Square 6 Wheated Bourbon is the third Evan Williams Bourbon Experience craft product of its series.

LOUISVILLE, KY (June 12, 2023) – Today, Heaven Hill announced the launch of Square 6 Wheated Bourbon, the latest innovative product to come from the Evan Williams Bourbon Experience. This is the third Square 6 product produced exclusively at the artisanal distillery located at 528 W Main Street in Louisville, just steps from the site of Williams’ original distillery founded in 1783.

The Square 6 Wheated Bourbon is comprised of two distinct Wheated Bourbon mashbills which were carefully blended post-aging. The first mashbill consists of 74% Corn, 16% Wheat, and 10% Malted Barley, and the second mashbill consists of 68% Corn, 20% Wheat, and 12% Malted Barley. Unlike its predecessors in the Square 6 line which were bottled at 95 proof, the Square 6 Wheated Bourbon has been bottled at 105 proof, which further highlights the wheated taste profile.

With initial aromas of caramel, vanilla, figs, bing cherries and oak, the Square 6 Wheated Bourbon follows with tasting notes of sweet confectioners’ sugar and walnuts on the palate. The finish boasts of walnuts, oak tannins, baking spices cinnamon and cola. Artisanal Distiller Jodie Filiatreau and team distill one barrel of American Whiskey per day at the Evan Williams Bourbon Experience and is continually crafting innovative mashbills and tweaking the hand-crafted pot still process for each new recipe.

“Blending two Wheated Bourbon mashbills gives Square 6 Wheated Bourbon a completely unique taste which differentiates it from others in the market,” says Filiatreau. “We are excited for fans of the Square 6 line to try this latest release and we hope Wheated Bourbon lovers will want to add this to their collections as well.”

The initial release of the Square 6 series in May 2021 featured a new mashbill for Heaven Hill, a High Rye Bourbon consisting of 52% corn, 35% rye and 13% malted barley. In October of 2022, the Evan Williams Bourbon Experience released the Square 6 High-Rye Rye Whiskey featuring a mashbill consisting of 51% Rye, 35% Corn and 14% Malted Barley. The continuation of the Evan Williams Square 6 series distilled in the one barrel per day, hand crafted, copper pot still facility is a testament to Heaven Hill’s commitment to quality, craft, innovation, and tradition.

The limited release of Square 6 Wheated Bourbon will be available in small quantities as a unique offering at the Evan Williams Bourbon Experience and available at select Kentucky retailers for a suggested retail price of $89.99.

 ABOUT THE EVAN WILLIAMS BOURBON EXPERIENCE: The Evan Williams Bourbon Experience® (www.EvanWilliamsBourbonExperience.com) celebrates the legacy of Evan Williams, Kentucky’s first commercial distiller, through an immersive visitor’s center experience which brings to life the history and tradition of Kentucky’s native spirit. An official stop on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail®, the facility offers guests a historical glimpse back in time to see Evan Williams’ original distillery through high-definition video recreations of the Louisville wharf and Main Street in the late 18th Century, plus recreations of Whiskey Row building facades along Main Street from the 1890’s through the present. Meanwhile, visitors learn the essential differences between distilling during Evan Williams’ era and Heaven Hill Distillery’s modern Bernheim Distillery operations.

KENTUCKY DISTILLERS CELEBRATE

NATIONAL BOURBON DAY MARKING INDUSTRY’S IMPORTANCE TO THE COMMONWEALTH

Launch of Bourbon Builds Kentucky campaign highlights the signature industry’s impact locally and statewide

FRANKFORT, Ky. – The Kentucky Distillers’ Association celebrates National Bourbon Day with the launch of bourbonbuildskentucky.com, a new campaign that showcases all the ways that Bourbon and Kentucky are stronger together.

From growing local economies to working side-by-side with Kentucky farmers to attracting tourists from across the world, Bourbon continues to expand its role in building Kentucky.

“In Kentucky, National Bourbon Day is more than just enjoying a glass of Bourbon with friends and family. We love that, but it’s not all that we’re about,” said Eric Gregory, president of the non-profit trade group founded in 1880.

“Kentucky is the birthplace of Bourbon and home to some of the oldest distilleries in the world. Today we celebrate the people behind our timeless craft – the families, farmers, bartenders, servers, distillers and more – who have made Kentucky Bourbon the signature industry that it is today.”

Year after year, Bourbon pours money and support into the state and local communities through jobs, taxes, capital projects, agriculture, tourism and more.

As a $9 billion signature industry, Bourbon generates more than 22,500 jobs with an annual payroll topping $1.23 billion, boasting an average annual pay of $74,000 for those in the industry.

Based on completed and planned projects from the world’s leading Bourbon companies and new craft distilleries that call Kentucky home, Bourbon will account for an astounding total of $5.2 billion in capital projects by the end of 2025.

Gov. Andy Beshear highlighted the signature industry’s importance to Kentucky and beyond.

“Kentucky has more than 200 years of history and heritage in perfecting America’s spirit, creating 95% of the world’s bourbon – and 100% of the bourbon worth drinking. I am proud to celebrate National Bourbon Day, highlighting the past, present and future of this important industry here in Kentucky,” Gov. Beshear said.

Kentucky distillers are proud of the generations of families involved in Kentucky’s agriculture industry who provide the crops needed to make Bourbon and give it a distinct flavor. Each year, distilleries use between 15 and 20 million bushels of corn and other grains to make the world’s finest Bourbons.

Each year, the Kentucky Bourbon Trail® adventure and the Kentucky Bourbon Trail Craft Tour® experience bring an influx of out-of-state tourists who spend hundreds to thousands of dollars per trip. Recent survey data show visitors come from all 50 states and across the world, they’re arriving in larger groups and staying longer in Kentucky’s communities. Last year, the Kentucky Bourbon Trail® and Kentucky Bourbon Trail Craft Tour® recorded a record 2.13 million visits.

As the one, true and authentic home for Bourbon, the Kentucky Distillers’ Association raises a glass to all those who help make the industry a success. As always, enjoy like a true Kentuckian: responsibly.

Visit bourbonbuildskentucky.com to learn more about how Bourbon builds the economy, supports farmers, and drives tourism in communities across the Commonwealth.

Founded in 1880, the Kentucky Distillers’ Association is the legendary voice for Kentucky’s signature Bourbon and distilled spirits industry. Its diverse and growing membership produces the overwhelming majority of the world’s Bourbon, from historic, global brands to emerging micro distilleries that are fostering the next generation of the Commonwealth’s landmark economic engine and its thriving, timeless craft. Member benefits include media relations, international trade development, private sampling events, technical assistance, economic development support, networking, legal defense, marketing strategies, governmental and regulatory advocacy and innovative tourism experiences through the KDA’s world-famous Kentucky Bourbon Trail® and Kentucky Bourbon Trail Craft Tour® adventures. A 501(c)(6) nonprofit organization, the KDA maintains an open membership policy, champions a strong commitment to the responsible and moderate consumption of spirits, and fights to curb underage drinking and drunk driving. Learn more at www.kybourbon.com and www.kybourbontrail.com

Hardin’s Creek™ Debuts ‘The Kentucky Series’ as The Next Release Of Highly Limited And Ultra-Rare Expressions

Beam Suntory launches ARDRAY® marking a new era in blended Scotch whisky