According to a report by Chris Lombardo of IBIS World, as of 2023, there are 809 whiskey and bourbon distilleries in the United States. This is an increase of 13.7% from 2022.

The Kentucky Distillers’ Association indicates that 95% of all bourbon is produced in Kentucky.  Kentucky is famous for producing bourbon, and 95% of the world’s bourbon is produced in the state.  Kentucky’s limestone rocks act as a filter, removing bitter elements like iron.  The state also produces and ages about 95% of the world’s bourbon. 

For our bourbon journey, we decided tackle the Kentucky Bourbon Trail (18 distilleries when we began) and the Kentucky Craft Trail – 23 distilleries when we started, but we stamped in for 24. Meanwhile, another one has recently been added. Early in our journey, it became clear that we would want to do them both – known as Make it a Double. The Kentucky distilleries are ever-changing and an enthusiast could easily invest all of their time in that great state!

Wherever you live, you are likely to find a whiskey, bourbon, or spirits trail near you! For example, Tennessee has 30 distilleries across the state. The number of distilleries has grown from three since Tennessee began reforming its prohibition-era laws in 2009. The Tennessee Whiskey Trail is a collaborative effort put together by over 30 Tennessee distillers. The trail aims to promote whiskey. The Jack Daniel Distillery in Lynchburg, TN is the oldest registered distillery in the United States. It was registered by Jack Daniel in 1866 and celebrated its 150th anniversary in 2016.

Kentucky Distilleries
Indiana Distilleries
Tennessee Distilleries
Other Distilleries