The Kentucky Distillers’ Association announced Balance Distilling Company in Warren County as the newest member of the non-profit trade group that unites and leads Kentucky’s signature Bourbon and distilled spirits industry. 

Veteran Luke Jean founded Balance Distilling in 2020 and began production in 2022. Starting with batches of rum, gin, moonshine and whiskey, Balance is resurrecting the historic Mammoth Cave Bourbon brand that dates back to the 1860s. 

The brand will also be found at The Lodge at Mammoth Cave, where many visitors who have traveled to experience the world’s longest cave system begin their journey. This partnership will highlight the history of local moonshiners who have used intricate cave systems throughout Kentucky for generations. 

Located at 3558 Bohannon Road in Smiths Grove, the distillery has the ability to produce 5,000 proof gallons annually. Balance Distilling is currently the only operating distillery in Warren County, which began allowing legal alcohol sales in 2019. 

A public affairs officer with the Army Reserve and a graduate of Western Kentucky University in Bowling Green, Jean said joining the KDA is a significant moment that symbolizes upward growth for Balance Distilling and the Western Kentucky region.

“We built our distillery and revived an important Bourbon brand on the heritage and legacy of one of the great wonders of the world — Mammoth Cave,” he said in a news release. “Our products and our business will continue to build on those attributes, integrating what we learn from our new Bourbon family with the KDA.” 

KDA President Eric Gregory added, “We are thrilled to welcome Balance Distilling as our newest member and a shining example of how Bourbon curiosity continues to drive new tourism, new businesses, new jobs, and new opportunities to communities across the Commonwealth.”

As proof of how Bourbon Builds Kentucky, Gregory said the Western Kentucky region now features 18 distilleries responsible for 1,300 jobs carrying an $80 million payroll, generating $443 million in annual economic impact and $10 million in local and state tax revenue.

Learn more about Balance Distilling Company at www.balancedistilling.com.

Balance Distilling Company joins KDA as a “Craft” level member, aging between 1 and 1,000 barrels per year. The KDA now has over 120 members, including 70 distilling members and more than 50 industry partner and champion members. 

Visit the KDA and its Kentucky Bourbon Trail adventure at www.kybourbon.com and www.kybourbontrail.com for more information and details on how to join the KDA’s growing Bourbon family.

Read more: Balance Distilling Revives Classic Mammoth Cave Bourbon