The United States is home to some of the largest and most influential whiskey distilleries in the world. These distilleries produce a wide range of spirits, from iconic bourbons to smooth Tennessee whiskeys, contributing to the global popularity of American whiskey. Here’s a look at the ten largest whiskey distilleries in the U.S. and what makes each of them stand out.
1. Jack Daniel’s Distillery
Location: Lynchburg, Tennessee
Owner: Brown-Forman Corporation
Jack Daniel’s is the world’s best-selling American whiskey brand. Founded in 1866, it is famous for its Old No. 7 Tennessee Whiskey and the unique Lincoln County Process, which involves charcoal filtering that gives the whiskey its smoothness. Despite its global reach, all Jack Daniel’s whiskey is produced in the small town of Lynchburg, Tennessee.
2. Jim Beam Distillery
Location: Clermont and Boston, Kentucky
Owner: Beam Suntory
Jim Beam is a cornerstone of the American bourbon industry with a history that spans over 225 years. Known for its flagship Jim Beam Bourbon, the distillery also produces premium labels such as Knob Creek, Basil Hayden’s, and Booker’s. Beam Suntory, the parent company, has expanded the brand’s global presence, maintaining Jim Beam’s status as one of the most recognizable names in bourbon.
3. Heaven Hill Distillery
Location: Bardstown, Kentucky
Owner: Heaven Hill Brands
Heaven Hill is the largest independent, family-owned distillery in the U.S. and the second-largest holder of bourbon whiskey in the world. Known for brands like Elijah Craig, Evan Williams, and Larceny, Heaven Hill has built a reputation for quality and innovation, producing a diverse array of bourbons and whiskeys that cater to a broad range of tastes.
4. Buffalo Trace Distillery
Location: Frankfort, Kentucky
Owner: Sazerac Company
Buffalo Trace is one of the oldest continuously operating distilleries in the U.S., with a rich history dating back to 1775. It is renowned for producing highly sought-after bourbons and whiskeys, including Buffalo Trace Bourbon, Eagle Rare, and the prestigious Pappy Van Winkle line. The distillery is celebrated for its craftsmanship, innovation, and a commitment to quality.
5. Brown-Forman Distillery
Location: Louisville, Kentucky
Owner: Brown- Forman Corporation
Brown-Forman is a major player in the whiskey industry, owning several prominent brands, including Old Forester and Woodford Reserve. Founded in 1870, the company has been at the forefront of whiskey innovation and sustainability, producing high-quality spirits that are appreciated by whiskey enthusiasts around the world.
6. Wild Turkey Distillery
Location: Lawrenceburg, Kentucky
Owner: Campari Group
Wild Turkey is known for its bold, high-rye bourbons and legendary master distiller Jimmy Russell, who has been crafting whiskey for over 60 years. The distillery produces well-loved expressions such as Wild Turkey 101 and Russell’s Reserve, each characterized by their robust flavors and commitment to traditional methods.
7. Maker’s Mark Distillery
Location: Loretto, Kentucky
Owner: Beam Suntory
Maker’s Mark is famous for its red wax-sealed bottles and smooth, wheated bourbon. Founded in 1953, Maker’s Mark focuses on quality and craftsmanship, using a unique mash bill with red winter wheat to create a softer, sweeter flavor profile. The distillery has become a cultural icon and remains a favorite among bourbon enthusiasts.
8. Four Roses Distillery
Location: Lawrenceburg, Kentucky
Owner: Kirin Brewery Company
Four Roses is known for its unique approach to bourbon production, using ten distinct recipes to create a range of flavors and profiles. The distillery’s flagship offerings, such as Four Roses Small Batch and Single Barrel, are celebrated for their smoothness and complexity. Four Roses has a rich history and a strong reputation for quality and consistency.
9. MGP Ingredients
Location: Lawrenceburg, Indiana
Owner: MGP (Midwest Grain Products)
MGP is a major supplier of whiskey to various brands and independent bottlers. While it does not typically bottle whiskey under its own name, MGP produces a wide range of high-quality bourbons and ryes used in many popular labels. The distillery is known for its consistent quality and ability to produce whiskey to specific flavor profiles.
10. Woodford Reserve Distillery
Location: Versailles, Kentucky
Owner: Brown-Forman Corporation
Woodford Reserve is known for its premium bourbons and commitment to craftsmanship. The distillery is located on the historic site of the Labrot & Graham Distillery, which dates back to 1812. Woodford Reserve is renowned for its rich and complex flavor profiles, with each batch crafted using a combination of pot still and column distillation methods.
