Welcome to Kentucky, where bourbon barrels outnumber residents. After all, bourbon is Kentucky—its craftsmanship and flavors cannot be separated from the culture and history of the state. Discover that culture and history—and enjoy great food, fabulous drinks, and incredible people—on your own Kentucky bourbon road trip.

The State of Bourbon showcases the region's finest distilleries as well as the local restaurants, hotels, parks, and adventures that every bourbon lover needs to experience. Bluegrass natives Cameron M. Ludwick and Blair Thomas Hess highlight some of their favorite stops on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail, the Urban Bourbon Trail, and the Craft Bourbon Trail, at stills and rick houses where the history and heritage of the nation's only native spirit come to life.

Not just a trail or tasting guide, The State of Bourbon will lead you across Kentucky, through the history of the spirit, and into your own bourbon adventure.

Photographs by: Elliott Hess