Known as a man of sterling worth and integrity, Jacob Beam was a farmer, miller and pioneer. In the 1780s, he moved his family to the foothills of Kentucky before it was yet a state. Turns out the rich Kentucky soil is perfect for growing corn. He used the excess corn to make whiskey, which would be the start of a bourbon dynasty. His commitment to quality and consistency laid the foundation for one of the most successful bourbon brands in history. Beam’s use of a family yeast strain, which is still in use today, was a significant innovation that ensures the unique flavor of his bourbon.

Jim Beam remains a household name, with products like Jim Beam White Label and Jim Beam Black leading the market. The brand’s Knob Creek line is known for its robust and nuanced flavors.

Evan Williams is often recognized as Kentucky’s first commercial distiller. He established his distillery on the banks of the Ohio River in 1783, setting a precedent for future bourbon makers. Williams’ meticulous approach to distillation and aging helped elevate the quality of bourbon and set high standards for the industry.

The Evan Williams brand continues to thrive, with the Evan Williams Black Label and Evan Williams Single Barrel being particularly popular. These products are celebrated for their smoothness and rich, caramel notes. The distillery is also noted for their seasonal flavors.

Meredith Basil Hayden, Sr., was a rye farmer who migrated to Kentucky and began distilling bourbon with a higher rye content than his contemporaries. This innovation resulted in a spicier, more robust flavor profile that set his bourbon apart. Hayden’s approach influenced many future distillers and contributed to the diversity of bourbon styles available today. The Basil Hayden’s we know is a result of Booker Noe’s efforts to create a similar high-rye mash bill.

The Basil Hayden brand is known for its approachable yet complex bourbons. The Basil Hayden Kentucky Straight Bourbon, Malted Rye and Toast are favorites among bourbon enthusiasts.