Bourbon tourism gets new shot of momentum

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (AP) — The world’s leading bourbon maker is giving another shot of momentum for bourbon tourism in Louisville.

Beam Suntory, the company behind the Jim Beam brand, has announced plans to open an attraction featuring a small working distillery.

The company said Wednesday the Jim Beam Urban Stillhouse is expected to open next year in a downtown entertainment district. Its request for tax incentives related to the multimillion-dollar project has won preliminary approval from the Kentucky Tourism Development Finance Authority.

Beam Suntory vice president Kevin Smith says the venture will offer a hands-on opportunity to experience bourbon’s heritage and craftsmanship.

It becomes the latest big name in bourbon to open or roll out plans for projects in Louisville to tap into the growing popularity of Kentucky’s $3 billion bourbon industry.

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