GITNUX MARKETDATA REPORT 2024

Bourbon Popularity Statistics

Bourbon is enjoying a resurgence in popularity, with sales increasing steadily each year and capturing a growing market share of the spirits industry.

Last Updated: June 20, 2024

Written & Summarized by: Jannik Lindner

How we write

In this post, we explore the remarkable growth and popularity of bourbon, a quintessential American spirit. From booming revenues and exports to shifting consumer preferences and industry innovations, the statistics paint a compelling picture of bourbon’s rise to prominence in the beverage world. Join us as we delve into the numbers that showcase bourbon’s enduring appeal and economic impact.

Statistic 1

"In 2020, Bourbon revenues in the United States were $4.3 billion."

Statistic 2

"In 2020, Bourbon exports totaled $1 billion, despite the 25% tariff."

Statistic 3

"U.S. bourbon production increased 150% from 1999 (455,000 barrels) to 2019 (1.7 million barrels)."

Statistic 4

"As of 2019, there are now 68 bourbon distilleries in Kentucky, up from 8 in 2009."

Statistic 5

"As of 2018, bourbon and Tennessee whiskey sales within the U.S. rose by 6.6%."

Statistic 6

"UK bourbon consumption has grown by 27% over five years up to 2017."

Statistic 7

"As of 2017, 39% of bourbon consumers in the U.S. are millennials."

Statistic 8

"Bourbon makes up for two-thirds of all U.S. spirits exports as of 2020."

Statistic 9

"Sales of high-end premium bourbon have grown by 338% between 2009 and 2019."

Statistic 10

"As of 2019, bourbon and Tennessee whiskey exports to the EU totaled $702 million."

Statistic 11

"Bourbon sales increased by 8.1% in Australia from 2018 - 2019."

Statistic 12

"In 2015, Millennial drinkers bought 28.5% of Brown-Forman's bourbon by dollar value sold."

Statistic 13

"In 2020, there were 8.1 million barrels of bourbon aging in Kentucky, the highest number in over 40 years."

Statistic 14

"The share of American women who prefer bourbon almost doubled from 15% in the late 1990s to 29% in 2019."

Statistic 15

"In 2016, Whiskey including bourbon was reported to be the favorite drink of 26% Americans."

Statistic 16

"The bourbon industry helps in providing approximately 17,500 jobs with an annual payroll of $800 million in Kentucky as of 2019."

Statistic 17

"Bourbon tourism in Kentucky reported record-breaking visits in 2019 with 1.7 million visitors from all 50 states and 40 countries worldwide."

Statistic 18

"In 2016, Beam Suntory, a major bourbon producer, experienced a sales increase of 8% for its bourbon brands."

Statistic 19

"Super-premium bourbon and Tennessee whiskey brands (retailing above $30 a bottle) grew by 13% in volume and 15.7% in value in 2020."

Statistic 20

"Bourbon production as of 2020, has more than doubled since 1999."

In conclusion, the statistics presented clearly demonstrate the significant and growing popularity of bourbon in the United States and around the world. From soaring revenues and exports to substantial increases in production and distilleries, bourbon has become a powerhouse in the spirits industry. The statistics highlight a strong demand for high-end premium bourbon, as well as a shift in consumer preferences towards this classic American spirit. With its economic impact evident through job creation and tourism in Kentucky, bourbon’s allure and market dominance are undeniable, making it a key player in the global spirits market.

Jannik Lindner

Jannik is the Co-Founder of Gitnux and has been working in the digital space since 2016. He is specialized in content and tech.

Can You Trust Our Report?

The statistics are checked by us and then entered into the database. Our market data reports have been linked to by some of the largest publishers and companies on the Internet.

Learn more about our process here.