Bourbon’s popularity is a global phenomenon, but you need only look at Bardstown, Kentucky, to see the most profound impacts of its evolution. This historic city of 13,500 people is booming while enduring growing pains. The economic impacts from a massive influx of tourists to America’s bourbon epicenter are positive, but with crowds comes pressure on infrastructure, services and accommodations. The demand for hotels, bars and restaurants is at an all-time high, and investors from across the globe are addressing those needs.
Still, as a two-century-old Kentucky cultural and entertainment center—long before it was discovered by bourbon drinkers – many locals want to ensure the traditional Bardstown experience doesn’t disappear amid novel entertainment options. Researched and written by Steve Coomes, The Rebirth of Bourbon: Building a Tourism Economy in Small-Town USA tells the story of the rising popularity of bourbon—along with its accompanying challenges—through nearly 50 interviews of the whiskey makers and business builders who pushed the industry forward in Bardstown.
Price, $26.50 (includes sales tax, postage and personalization)
