Beam Suntory is suspending “all visitation” at Maker’s Mark and the Jim Beam American Stillhouse, the company told me. These two facilities accounted for nearly 500,000 visits on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail a year.

The suspension is due to the coronavirus outbreak, the company told me. It begins Monday, March 16.

Full Statement: “Beam Suntory is actively managing its response to the rapidly evolving COVID-19 pandemic, and we’re determined to do our part to support our communities and help contain the spread of the virus. Consistent with guidance from public health authorities to limit large gatherings, and given that our public tours include elements that bring groups together in relatively restricted spaces, we have temporarily suspended all visitation at both the Jim Beam American Stillhouse and Maker’s Mark Distillery. We understand that this may be disappointing to our fans and we apologize for any inconvenience. Please be assured that we are taking this action out of an abundance of caution because the health and wellbeing of our employees and loyal brand fans is paramount. We look forward to resuming tours in the future.”