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Bourbon, Tennessee Whiskey Sales Up in U.S., Overseas

Kentucky bourbon barrels
Kentucky bourbon barrels

A distilled spirits trade group says global thirst for Kentucky bourbon and Tennessee whiskey sent exports beyond $1 billion for the first time ever in 2013.

The Distilled Spirits Council says combined bourbon and Tennessee whiskey exports grew a projected 5 percent last year. Their revenues shot up even higher in the U.S., rising by a projected 10.2 percent last year.

The council says their performance overseas drove overall American distilled spirits exports above $1.5 billion. That marks the fourth straight year of record exports for American-crafted spirits.

The group says the steady rise reflects a growing reputation for America spirits overseas.