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Established through a generous, $5 million gift from Suntory Global Spirits in 2019, the James B. Beam Institute for Kentucky Spirits at the University of Kentucky is the bourbon industry's research and development vehicle. The Beam Institute offers multidisciplinary research strengths to ensure sustained competitiveness of Kentucky's spirits industry and its supply chain. A further commitment is to develop the state’s workforce and provide opportunities for economic growth via process efficiency and outreach. In creating exceptional teaching, research and outreach programs, the Beam Institute is a leader for Kentucky’s spirits industry from farm to product.

2023 Annual Report

Annual Report (PDF)

Mission

The Beam Institute will lead the global advancement of the American whiskey industry through workforce education, scientific discovery, environmental sustainability, community and social responsibility. 

Events

Distillery Safety Series - Risk Assessment

- James B. Beam Institute for Kentucky Spirits

Learn all about risk assessments in whiskey production with Funshine Enterprises, LLC, CARERC and the Beam Institute

Bourbon Grains Workshop

James B. Beam Institute for KY Spirits

Learn all about grains for whiskey - email now for more information!

Signature Industries Career Fair

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Stay tuned for more information!

How Bourbon Impacts the Commonwealth:

Source: Kentucky Distillers' Association Economic Impact Report (released January 2024)

+23K


Jobs Generated


+12M


Barrels Aging in Kentucky

$9B


Economic Impact


+21M


Bushels of Corn and Grains Purchased by Distillers

$358M


State and Local Tax Revenue


2.5M


Visitor Experiences

Research and teaching go hand in hand here...
it's what we do every day.

Dr. Seth Debolt, Institute Director
Find us at 1320 Nicholasville Road Lexington, KY

Contact Information

Seth DeBolt, Ph.D.
Director

309 Plant Science Building Lexington, KY 40546-0312

beaminstitute@uky.edu