Iconic Kentucky Whiskey Ceremony Will Have To Wait For 2022

Image: Kentucky Distillers Association

Today, the Kentucky Distillers Association canceled an iconic day to those who follow the world of American whiskey. The Kentucky Bourbon Hall Of Fame Ceremony, the annual presentation that bestows the industry’s most prestigious award, has been canceled for 2021.

The Kentucky Distillers Association had been poised to hold the event in September, under expectation that vaccinations and community spread would be in a safe place in the Fall, but the decision levied indicates the Association’s discomfort with holding a large event as the pandemic continues to hang on.

Likely a wise choice given the state of the pandemic, the Association will look to resume hosting the event in 2022. The Kentucky Bourbon Trail has stayed atop the pandemic and distillery openings, closings, restrictions and special events with an encouraging ferocity. Posting weekly updates about the state of bourbon country amid COVID, it’s easy to see who is doing what.

Look for our coverage of the Hall of Fame Ceremony in 2022, as many notable industry veterans will likely be inducted with honors. Full press release below:

KENTUCKY DISTILLERS’ ASSOCIATION CANCELS KENTUCKY BOURBON HALL OF FAME® CEREMONY

FRANKFORT, Ky. – The Kentucky Distillers’ Association today announced that this year’s Kentucky Bourbon Hall of Fame® induction and ceremony has been canceled.

Created by the KDA in 2001, the Kentucky Bourbon Hall of Fame® recognizes individuals and organizations that have made a significant and transformational impact on Bourbon’s stature, growth and awareness.

It is the highest honor given by the signature industry and is presented annually during the Kentucky Bourbon Festival in Bardstown in September.

KDA President Eric Gregory said the prestigious event is known for its intimate celebration of the industry’s most revered champions and attracts dignitaries from around the country.

“While we are encouraged with vaccination rates and declining cases in Kentucky, the KDA Board of Directors does not want to diminish this elite event or take a chance and possibly endanger any of our industry’s legends, their families and friends,” Gregory said.

“The Hall of Fame is one of our industry’s most cherished events when we all come together and commend the storied legacies and achievements of these iconic individuals. We look forward to holding a proper, in-person ceremony next year.”

Founded in 1880, the Kentucky Distillers’ Association is the legendary voice for Kentucky’s signature Bourbon and distilled spirits industry. Its diverse and growing membership produces the overwhelming majority of the world’s Bourbon, from historic, global brands to emerging micro distilleries that are building the next generation of the Commonwealth’s timeless craft. A 501(c)(6) nonprofit organization, the KDA maintains an open membership policy, champions a strong commitment to the responsible and moderate consumption of spirits, and fights to curb underage drinking and drunk driving.

Learn more at www.kybourbon.com and www.kybourbontrail.com.

KENTUCKY BOURBON TRAIL®, KENTUCKY BOURBON TRAIL CRAFT TOUR®, KENTUCKY BOURBON AFFAIR™, KBT®, BOURBON TRAIL™ and KENTUCKY BOURBON HALL OF FAME® are trademarks/servicemarks of the Kentucky Distillers’ Association.Enjoy Bourbon like a true Kentuckian — Responsibly.