Is Bulleit owned by Jim Beam?

Answered by John Watkins

Bulleit is not owned by Jim Beam. It is actually owned by the Diageo conglomerate. Jim Beam, on the other hand, is a separate brand of bourbon produced by Beam Suntory, a subsidiary of the company Suntory Holdings.

As a sommelier and brewer, I have had the opportunity to taste and experience a wide range of bourbons, including Bulleit. I find it fascinating to explore the different distilleries and brands that contribute to the rich and diverse world of bourbon.

Bulleit Bourbon has gained popularity over the years for its unique flavor profile and smoothness. It is a Kentucky straight bourbon whiskey, meaning it is made in Kentucky and meets the strict legal requirements for bourbon production.

The Bulleit brand was originally founded in the mid-1800s by Augustus Bulleit, a tavern keeper and distiller. However, the brand fell into obscurity and was eventually revived by Tom Bulleit, a lawyer from Kentucky, in the 1980s. Tom Bulleit's passion for bourbon and his desire to honor his family's legacy led him to recreate his ancestor's bourbon recipe and reintroduce the Bulleit brand to the world.

In 1997, Bulleit Bourbon caught the attention of the industry giant, Diageo, who saw the potential in the brand and acquired it. Diageo has since invested in the expansion and modernization of the Bulleit Distillery in Shelbyville, Kentucky, to meet the growing demand for the bourbon.

It is worth noting that Bulleit Bourbon is produced at two different distilleries. The original distillery in Lawrenceburg, Indiana, which was contracted to produce Bulleit Bourbon for a number of years, and the newer distillery in Shelbyville, Kentucky. The transition from the Lawrenceburg distillery to the Shelbyville distillery was completed in 2017.

Personally, I have always enjoyed the smoothness and complexity of Bulleit Bourbon. Its high content gives it a distinctive spiciness, which pairs well with its notes of caramel, vanilla, and oak. Whether sipped neat, on the rocks, or used as a base for , Bulleit Bourbon offers a satisfying and flavorful experience.

Bulleit Bourbon is not owned by Jim Beam, but rather by the Diageo beverage conglomerate. The brand has a rich history and has gained recognition for its unique flavor profile and smoothness. As a sommelier and brewer, I appreciate the diversity of bourbons available, and Bulleit Bourbon is certainly one that stands out for its quality and craftsmanship.