Since its inception in 2001, the Kentucky Bourbon Hall of Fame®, created by the Kentucky Distillers’ Association (KDA), has been dedicated to recognizing the passion, sacrifice, and hard work of those who have shaped the Kentucky Bourbon industry into the global phenomenon it is today. Every September, during National Bourbon Heritage Month, new inductees are honored for their contributions to this iconic American spirit.
The 2024 class of inductees brings together pioneers who have blazed trails in the industry, from the first Black chemist at Brown-Forman to visionary distillery founders and innovators in Bourbon tourism. This year’s honorees represent a wide range of talents and backgrounds, each leaving a lasting legacy on the Bourbon world.
One of the most notable honorees this year is Ken Lewis, the retired Founder and CEO of New Riff Distilling. Lewis has been awarded the prestigious Parker Beam Lifetime Achievement Award, a fitting recognition for a career that has redefined Bourbon retail and production. As the founder of The Party Source megastore, Lewis spearheaded legal reforms that allowed for Sunday alcohol sales and credit card purchases, revolutionizing the retail landscape. In 2014, he launched New Riff Distilling in Northern Kentucky, focusing on innovation and collaboration to create one of the world’s premier craft distilleries.
Eric Gregory, President of the Kentucky Distillers’ Association, praised this year’s inductees, stating, “Our signature Bourbon industry would not be what it is today without these distinguished honorees. Each has played a vital role in cementing Kentucky’s place as the undisputed home of Bourbon. We are proud to honor them for their dedication and contributions.”
The 2024 Kentucky Bourbon Hall of Fame Inductees:
Elmer Lucille Allen – Brown-Forman
A trailblazing figure, Elmer Lucille Allen made history as the first Black chemist at Brown-Forman, the home of iconic brands like Old Forester and Woodford Reserve. Allen’s impact went beyond the lab, as she championed diversity and inclusion in the Louisville community. Among her many accomplishments, she founded the Chickasaw Little League and worked to bring African American art into the mainstream.
Dee Ford – Angel’s Envy Distillery
Dee Ford has been a driving force in Bourbon hospitality, propelling Angel’s Envy and the Kentucky Bourbon Trail® to international fame. As Chair of the KDA’s Kentucky Bourbon Trail® Committee, Ford has helped shape Kentucky Bourbon tourism into a global must-see attraction, setting high standards for hospitality and guest experiences.
Ken Lewis – New Riff Distilling
Ken Lewis, a visionary in both Bourbon retail and production, built an empire with The Party Source and later founded New Riff Distilling, which has become a leader in craft Bourbon innovation. His entrepreneurial spirit and policy leadership have helped shape the modern Bourbon industry, particularly in the areas of retail legislation and craft distilling.
Peter Loftin – Bardstown Bourbon Company
The late Peter T. Loftin was a pioneer in Bourbon tourism, founding the Bardstown Bourbon Company in 2014. He transformed custom whiskey production and created a Napa Valley-style destination experience with a world-class restaurant and vintage spirits lounge. Loftin’s vision redefined the possibilities of Bourbon tourism, and his legacy continues to influence the industry.
Corky Taylor – Kentucky Peerless Distilling
R.M. “Corky” Taylor revived his family’s legacy by restoring the Kentucky Peerless Distilling Co., originally founded by his great-grandfather, Henry Kraver. After a successful career in financial services, Taylor dedicated himself to bringing back the historic distillery, earning national recognition for the quality and patience that defined the brand from its origins in 1889.
