Stories
Whisky is a passion to explore. From the history of the spirit to the evolution of the industry, the story of whisky helps fuel that passion. Often, it’s easy to forget that whisky is also a global multibillion dollar industry. The stories of whisky — from news and new releases to in-depth inquires and what goes on behind the label — blend together to help us appreciate the spirit of whisky.
Backlash Begins Over Barrel Tax Phaseout
Nelson County officials took the first step Friday in what could be a moratorium on new bourbon rickhouses and other distillery construction.
Bardstown is the county seat of Nelson County, and millions of dollars in new construction projects are already underway or in the planning stages.
The proposed 90-day moratorium on new projects would give local officials a chance to review current ordinances that affect the Bourbon industry with an eye to protecting prime agricultural land and public health.
Nelson County Judge Executive Tim Hutchins told the Lexington Herald Leader that “I didn’t get elected by the distilleries or big business…I got elected by the citizens of Nelson County.”
In addition, Bullitt County officials won’t consider any new bourbon-related construction unless the industry agrees to bear costs associated with their projects.
Three rickhouse projects have already been approved, but Judge Executive Jerry Summers says nobody in the county has an appetite for them now.
Ironically, Summers is a retired Beam Suntory executive and a member of the Kentucky Bourbon Hall of Fame.
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