Stories
Whisky is a passion to explore. From the history of the spirit to the evolution of the industry, the story of whisky helps fuel that passion. Often, it’s easy to forget that whisky is also a global multibillion dollar industry. The stories of whisky — from news and new releases to in-depth inquires and what goes on behind the label — blend together to help us appreciate the spirit of whisky.
Kentucky Bourbon Hall of Fame to Induct Five New Members
The Kentucky Bourbon Hall of Fame has announced its Class of 2024, including the recipient of the Parker Beam Lifetime Achievement Award. New Riff Distilling founder Ken Lewis is this year’s honoree, not only for establishing New Riff ten years ago, but for his longtime ownership of The Party Source liquor megastore in Newport, Kentucky. Lewis was at the forefront of pushing for legislative changes to allow Sunday liquor sales in Kentucky, along with allowing credit card sales as well.
The inductees also include 93-year-old Elmer Lucille Allen, the first Black chemist at Brown-Forman and a trailblazer in the Bourbon industry, along with Angel’s Envy visitors center manager Dee Ford, Kentucky Peerless Distilling founder Corky Taylor, and the late Peter Loftin, the founder of the Bardstown Bourbon Company.
“Our signature Bourbon industry would not be what it is today without these distinguished honorees,” Kentucky Distillers Association president Eric Gregory said in the announcement. “Each put the industry before self, helping Kentucky cement its place in history as the international and undisputed home of Bourbon. And now we are honored to honor them. On behalf of our signature industry, we offer congratulations – and a heartfelt thank you – to these Bourbon heroes.”
The induction ceremony will be September 10 at The Legacy at Log Still Distillery, in conjunction with the Kentucky Bourbon Festival.
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