Tagged: Alcohol

Kentucky’s signature spirit is getting some love from a well-respected publication.

National Geographic has designated the Kentucky Bourbon Trail as one of its top 10 "Best Spring Trips."

The Kentucky tourism attraction is showcased along with excursions and festivals in New Zealand, India, the Netherlands, Portugal, Romania, South Africa and Argentina.

Only three American trips made the top 10.

The Bourbon Trail attracted more than 500,000 visitors in 2012, the first time the tour has broken the half-million mark since its creation in 1999 by the Kentucky Distillers' Association.

A Kentucky legislative leader says progress on reforming the state’s liquor laws  is slow going.  Last year, a federal judge threw out the state law that blocks grocery stores and gas stations from selling wine and spirits.

That same judge later stayed his ruling to prevent a sudden surge in liquor retailers and to allow Kentucky lawmakers to re-write the regulations.  But House Speaker Greg Stumbo says so far, no one has put forward a proposal to properly address the issue.

“Everyone hopes that there will be some sort of reasonable proposal from the entire industry that takes in consideration the court’s ruling. To date I haven’t seen that.”

Some southeastern Kentucky residents say campaigns on a vote that could allow alcohol sales in the community have taken a negative turn. McCreary County voters head to the polls next Tuesday to decide the controversial issue.

Bourbon and barbecue are teaming up next month in Danville to benefit Heart of Kentucky United Way. The second annual Kentucky State Barbecue Festival on Sept. 7 will feature a charity bourbon barrel auction.