The Kentucky Bourbon Hall of Fame has unveiled its 2024 class, recognizing a group of remarkable individuals who have made significant contributions to the bourbon industry. This year's inductees include a pioneering chemist, a dedicated visitor center manager, two innovative distillery founders, and a groundbreaking retailer-turned-distiller. These honorees have each played a vital role in shaping Kentucky’s bourbon heritage.
Honorees of the 2024 Class
Elmer Lucille Allen, 93, Louisville
Elmer Lucille Allen stands out as a trailblazer, being the first Black chemist at Brown-Forman and potentially the entire American whiskey industry. Her legacy extends beyond her professional achievements; she has been an active advocate for her community. Allen’s efforts include founding the Chickasaw Little League and promoting African American art and artists, ensuring their place in the mainstream cultural landscape.
Dee Ford, 59, Louisville
Dee Ford has been a driving force in making bourbon tourism a global attraction. Her leadership and vision at Angel’s Envy and on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail Committee have significantly boosted Kentucky’s profile as a premier destination for bourbon enthusiasts. Since 2014, Ford has chaired the committee, fostering best practices that have amplified the state’s hospitality and international reputation.
Ken Lewis, 71, Cincinnati
Ken Lewis, this year’s recipient of the Parker Beam Lifetime Achievement Award, has had a profound impact on the spirits industry. He initially made waves as a retailer, founding The Party Source megastore and advocating for legal changes that allowed Sunday and credit card sales of alcohol. In 2014, Lewis established New Riff Distilling in Northern Kentucky, aiming to create a world-class small distillery that combines innovation with tradition.
Peter T. Loftin (posthumous), 61, Miami
Peter T. Loftin was a visionary entrepreneur who founded Bardstown Bourbon Company in 2014. Loftin’s innovative approach transformed bourbon tourism, creating a Napa Valley-style experience with a state-of-the-art distillery, restaurant, and vintage spirits lounge. His contributions have set new standards for collaborative distilling and hospitality in the bourbon industry.
R.M. Corky Taylor, 75, Henderson, Ky.
R.M. Corky Taylor realized a lifelong dream by resurrecting his great-grandfather’s whiskey company, Kentucky Peerless Distilling Co. Taylor, along with his son, meticulously revived the family business, maintaining high standards of quality that date back to 1889. Their dedication has earned the distillery national recognition and numerous awards.
Ceremony and Festival
The Kentucky Distillers’ Association (KDA), which established the Kentucky Bourbon Hall of Fame in 2001, oversees the selection process for these prestigious honors. Each year, the KDA and its member distilleries nominate candidates, and a committee, including past Parker Beam Lifetime Achievement Award recipients, selects the inductees.
The 2024 induction ceremony will take place on Tuesday, September 10, at The Legacy at Log Still in Nelson County, Kentucky. This exclusive, invitation-only event coincides with the Kentucky Bourbon Festival in Bardstown, known for gathering some of the industry’s most respected figures. The ceremony and luncheon are supported by sponsors like Brindiamo Group, Blue & Co., LLC, Bardstown Tourism, Buzick Construction, Inc., Stedman Machine Company, and Vendome Copper & Brass Works Corp.
For more information about the Kentucky Bourbon Hall of Fame and this year’s inductees, visit www.kybourbon.com/industry/hall-of-fame.
These five inductees exemplify the dedication, innovation, and passion that have propelled Kentucky bourbon to global acclaim. Their stories highlight the diverse paths that have contributed to the rich tapestry of bourbon history, ensuring its continued legacy for future generations.
