The Kentucky Distillers’ Association, the trade and lobby body representing the majority of Ky. distillers, said, “all production facilities are operating as usual with appropriate health and safety protocol,” in a press release.

The KDA said there are no confirmed cases of Coronavirus at any KDA member company and the virus has not impacted production.

In a special meeting today, KDA Board of Directors strongly recommended that members take all necessary precautions to protect the safety of guests and staff on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail tour from the Coronavirus outbreak, according to the press release. 

KDA members are sharing best practices and implementing strict measures to safeguard visitors, including enhanced sanitation procedures and reduced tour and tasting group sizes, while following guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and the state health department, the KDA said.

Some members are temporarily suspending all tours, while others are scaling back tours of sensitive areas like production and bottling facilities, said KDA Board Chairwoman Jessica Pendergrass.

“KDA member companies are taking these steps to ensure the health and well-being of visitors and employees, and to support broader initiatives across the Commonwealth to limit the spread of this most recent strain of Coronavirus,” Pendergrass said.  

“At the same time, we want to assure everyone that Bourbon production continues on schedule.”

KDA President Eric Gregory recommended that visitors contact participating KBT distilleries regarding currently scheduled tours or prior to scheduling a trip, as it is up to each distillery to determine policies in their hospitality facilities, including tours, gift shops, restaurants and bars. 

The trail recorded nearly 2-million visits last year, the KDA said.