Membership

The Kentucky Distillers’ Association was founded in 1880 to unite the Commonwealth’s signature Bourbon industry, promote our amber art around the world and protect its enduring spirit from those who would do it harm.

Today, the venerable non-profit group encompasses 37 unique companies – the most since the repeal of Prohibition – from legendary brands and renowned global icons to emerging distillers that are building the next generation of our timeless craft.

All have one common goal: to be part of a distilling family committed to securing the integrity of our industry and strengthening Kentucky’s rightful place as the one, true and authentic home for Bourbon.

KDA’s member distilleries have achieved much by working together. The KDA’s leadership in the 2014 General Assembly led to passage of the Bourbon Barrel Reinvestment Credit, saving the industry millions each year through virtual elimination of this discriminatory tax.

We successfully championed the creation of a new craft distillers license, which drastically lowers fees and helps Kentucky compete for these important new businesses.

Our KBT^TM promotional and educational offerings — the Kentucky Bourbon Trail® and Kentucky Bourbon Trail Craft Tour® experiences — are the hottest tourism attractions in the region, educating more than one million visits last year alone from all 50 states and more than 50 countries.

And there’s more – Media relations. International trade development. Private sampling events. Technical assistance, economic development support, networking, legal defense, marketing strategies, government and regulatory advocacy – all are benefits of your KDA membership.

The KDA maintains an open membership policy. If you’re interested in joining, please review the applications below and contact us to learn what it takes to be a KDA member. We’ve been waiting for you since 1880.