Kentucky distillers filled more than 2.1 million barrels of Bourbon last year and aged 9.1 million barrels of spirits, the Kentucky Distillers’ Association said.
That’s the highest inventory in the 52 years that barrel inventory records have been kept at the KDA, a non-profit trade group. It’s also the first and only time since 1967 that distillers filled more than 2 million barrels of America’s only native spirit.
The previous record was 8.7 million total barrels in 1968 and 1.9 million barrels filled in 1967.
Of the 9.1 million barrels of spirits, Bourbon makes up the largest amount at 8.5 million barrels.
Kentucky now counts 2 barrels of Bourbon and aging spirits for every person living in the Commonwealth, according to the latest U.S. Census projections that estimate the state’s population at 4.5 million residents.
“This is a historic day that cements Kentucky’s rightful title as the one, true and authentic home for Bourbon and distilled spirits,” KDA President Eric Gregory said. “It’s also further proof of Kentucky Bourbon’s monumental economic impact and ever-increasing demand.”
Amounts include all distilleries compiled from state Department of Revenue data as of Jan. 1. Founded in 1880, the KDA represents 39 of the state’s distilleries, from legendary, global brands to emerging distillers that are building upon centuries of craftsmanship and tradition.