Kentucky Distillers’ Association Announces Increase of Bourbon Aging in Kentucky
The amount of bourbon barrels aging in Kentucky continues to increase due to consumer demand. It may be hard to believe, but there are now nearly 10 million bourbon barrels aging in the Commonwealth of Kentucky! Bourbon not only caters to consumers worldwide, but it fuels so much of Kentucky’s economy and tourism.
Around this time last year, there were approximately 9.1 million barrels of bourbon making that twice the number of barrels than there are people in the bluegrass state. Prior to this record breaking number, the number was at the 2nd highest in history in 1968 at 8.7 million.
According to the Kentucky Distillers’ Association press release, the 2020 inventory broke numerous state records.
How Many Barrels of Bourbon Are Aging in Kentucky?
- Total barrels of Bourbon and other spirits: 9,864,197
- Total barrels of just Bourbon: 9,266,228
- Number of barrels of Bourbon filled last year: 2,122,954.
Additionally, the KDA states that this marks the second year in a row that Kentucky distillers have filled two million barrels, the first time that’s happened in the modern era. The numbers listed are based on tracked inventory bourbon warehouse records reported from January 1, 2020. The numbers were submitted to the KY Department of Revenue from 42 distillers and additional licensed distilling/storing companies (most of which are members of the Kentucky Distillers’ Association.
“To the world, Kentucky’s iconic Bourbon and spirits industry is renowned and loved for its delicious, high-quality products. To Kentucky, the industry represents our history and future, with thousands of Kentuckians employed at distilleries and adjacent businesses.
Gov. Andy Beshear
Although this is all very good news, unfortunately, the global pandemic is causing a decline in tourism and hospitality which effects the distillers themselves, but also many restaurants and bars. Undoubtedly, distilleries are also paying record numbers in taxes ($29 million.) However, purchasing and collecting bottles of bourbon has become a fun hobby, alongside at home cocktails and love for the history of bourbon.
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