Bourbon is a type of whiskey that is distilled from a fermented mash of at least 51% corn, and aged in charred oak barrels. While bourbon can be made anywhere in the United States, it is strongly associated with the state of Kentucky. In fact, the name "bourbon" is derived from Bourbon County, Kentucky, where the drink was first produced in the late 18th century.

The history of bourbon is intertwined with the history of Kentucky. In the late 1700s, a wave of settlers arrived in Kentucky, which was then a part of Virginia. These settlers brought with them the knowledge of distilling, and began to experiment with local ingredients to create a new type of whiskey. The fertile soil of Kentucky was perfect for growing corn, which was plentiful and affordable. This made it the perfect ingredient for the new spirit.

In the early days, bourbon was made in small batches by farmers and other settlers who wanted to turn their excess corn into a profitable product. As the drink gained popularity, more and more distilleries began to emerge in Kentucky. By the early 1800s, the state was producing more than half of the country's whiskey.

The growth of the bourbon industry in Kentucky was helped by a number of factors. The state was ideally located for shipping whiskey down the Ohio and Mississippi rivers to New Orleans and other ports. The invention of the steamboat in the early 1800s made transportation of goods even easier. In addition, the Civil War played a role in the popularity of bourbon. Soldiers on both sides of the conflict were given rations of whiskey, and many developed a taste for it.

Today, Kentucky is still the heart of the bourbon industry. The state is home to more than 70% of the world's bourbon production, and has more barrels of aging bourbon than it does residents. The industry is an important part of the state's economy, providing jobs and revenue. But bourbon is more than just a business in Kentucky - it's a cultural icon.

Bourbon is often associated with the genteel southern lifestyle of the "Old South". It has been celebrated in literature and music, and has even been used as a symbol of American freedom and independence. In recent years, the popularity of bourbon has soared, with new distilleries popping up all over the country. But for many, the true spirit of bourbon can only be found in the hills of Kentucky!

The history and culture of Kentucky bourbon runs deep. From its humble beginnings in the late 18th century to its current status as a global industry, bourbon has been an important part of Kentucky's past, present, and future. Whether you're a whiskey connoisseur or just someone who appreciates the finer things in life, a visit to Kentucky's bourbon distilleries is a must-do experience. Let LexInTouch coordinate a tour for you – and we will show you how it’s done!