The Oldest Business In Kentucky Is Also The Most Recognizable Brand Of Bourbon In The World

Kentucky’s history is long and fascinating and some stories and businesses from the Bluegrass date back just as far or even further. Kentucky became a state in 1792 and at that time, believe it or not, our well-known bourbon industry was already in the works. In fact, by 1795 one company officially began selling its creations and it is now known as the oldest business in Kentucky. Of course, we are talking about Jim Beam, which is not only the oldest business in the state, but is also most likely the most recognizable brand of bourbon in the world.

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But you may not realize that Jim Beam began way back in 1795 when Jacob Beam sold his first barrel of Old Jake Beam Sour Mash. The Beam family story actually goes back even further than that, meaning bourbon may actually be older than the commonwealth of Kentucky.

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They eventually Americanized their name to Beam and made their way to Kentucky, which at the time was a part of Virginia.

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Jim Beam has always been a local favorite, even 200 years ago, and it's had thousands of competitors throughout the decades.

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The business was passed through 7 generations, each one creating new innovations and beverages that the local community and the rest of the world have embraced.

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That is a number that is difficult to comprehend and puts a true perspective on the impact Jim Beam has had on the distilling world.

Facebook/Jim Beam American Stillhouse

Jim Beam would likely credit its success to innovation and always looking ahead, while relying on what has always worked in the past. This is a common theme in the distilling world that fans and consumers seem to appreciate.

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The next time you pour a glass or hit up the Bourbon Trail, cheers to the long history of Jim Beam and to the future and prosperity of local distilleries in Kentucky.

Jim Beam is extremely well known throughout the Bluegrass State, but it’s also very likely the most recognizable brand of bourbon in the world. And as the oldest business in Kentucky at 225 years old, we can expect to see many more years, decades, and even centuries of bourbon making ahead of us. Is Jim Beam your favorite brand of bourbon in the Bluegrass? What other older businesses in Kentucky do you love? Let us know in the comments!

For more information on Jim Beam and to learn all about its long history, visit its website and follow along on Facebook.

And for another historic place in the Bluegrass, check out the oldest church in Kentucky that also dates back to the late 1700s.