Georgetown, Kentucky, a small town with a big story, has just rolled out a bold new campaign called Bourbon Genesis. It’s a celebration of the town’s claim as the birthplace of bourbon, America’s homegrown whiskey. This isn’t just a marketing push—it’s a deep dive into history, inviting folks to walk the same streets where bourbon’s story began back in 1789. For anyone who loves a good pour and a great tale, Georgetown’s latest move is worth a closer look.
The heart of Bourbon Genesis lies in Royal Spring Park, right in the middle of Georgetown’s charming downtown. This is where Reverend Elijah Craig, a Baptist preacher with a knack for innovation, set up shop over two centuries ago. Using the pure, limestone-filtered water from the park’s spring, Craig distilled a whiskey that was unlike anything else at the time. But he didn’t stop there. In 1789, he started aging his whiskey in new, charred oak barrels—a move that gave bourbon its distinctive amber color and rich flavors like caramel, vanilla, and a hint of spice. That process is still the gold standard for bourbon today. As Lori Saunders, the head of Georgetown/Scott County Tourism, put it, “Bourbon Genesis isn’t just a campaign—it’s a pilgrimage to where bourbon began.”
To launch this campaign, Georgetown pulled out all the stops. A crew of well-known bourbon influencers rolled into town, kicking things off with a private gathering at Local Feed, where Chef Justin Thompson laid out a spread that paired perfectly with the occasion. From there, the group headed to the Heaven Hill Bourbon Experience, a must-visit spot for whiskey fans. Their mission? To handpick a single barrel of Elijah Craig Bourbon, which was then bottled as the exclusive Bourbon Genesis Single Barrel. This wasn’t just any barrel—it was chosen by a lineup of heavy hitters in the bourbon world, including Orlando “OJ” Lima, Jack Beguedou (named Top Spirits Influencer by the American Distilling Institute in 2024), Victor Sizemore, Tom Wilmes, Seth Thompson, Jess Ann Zimlich, Jeremy Chapline, Justin Thompson, and Chad Cole. These folks know their whiskey, and their stamp of approval makes this bottle something special.
The Bourbon Genesis Single Barrel will make its big debut at the Founders’ Sip event, set for Friday, June 13, 2025, from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. at Maime’s Fine Wine & Gifts in Georgetown. Leading the event is Jeremy Atwood, a Kentucky-born bourbon expert who works as Heaven Hill’s Lead Bourbon Educator. With degrees in History and Theology, Atwood’s got a knack for weaving together stories and sips, making him the perfect guide for this launch. The event is open to the public, with tickets handed out first-come, first-served at the door. Those lucky enough to attend can buy one bottle of the Bourbon Genesis Single Barrel, priced at $115 for a 750 mL bottle at a stout 123 proof. After the event, bottles will be up for grabs at Maime’s, and members of the Taste, Select, Repeat subscription program will find one in their summer shipment.
What makes this bottle stand out isn’t just its high proof or its exclusive status. It’s the connection to Georgetown’s history and the care that went into selecting it. At 123 proof, it’s got a bold, fiery kick that’s balanced by the smooth, complex flavors Elijah Craig is known for. Whether you’re sipping it neat or mixing it into a classic cocktail, this bourbon is a tribute to the town and the preacher who started it all.
But Bourbon Genesis is about more than just a bottle. It’s a call to explore Georgetown itself, a place that blends old-school charm with a modern vibe. The downtown area is made for strolling, with local spots serving up hearty food, cold drinks, and a warm welcome. You can feel Craig’s spirit of innovation in the air, from the craft cocktails at Local Feed to the history-soaked grounds of Royal Spring Park. Georgetown isn’t just resting on its laurels as bourbon’s birthplace—it’s a living, breathing hub for whiskey culture.
For visitors, Georgetown offers plenty to dig into beyond bourbon. The town’s got scenic landscapes for those who want to stretch their legs, plus family-friendly spots and outdoor adventures that make it a solid weekend getaway. Whether you’re chasing history or just looking for a good time, Georgetown delivers. The campaign’s website, www.bourbongenesis.com, has all the details on what to see, where to eat, and how to make the most of your trip.
Georgetown’s Bourbon Genesis campaign is a reminder of why Kentucky is the heart of bourbon country. By shining a light on Elijah Craig’s legacy and offering a one-of-a-kind bottle to mark the occasion, the town is staking its claim as a must-visit for whiskey fans. The Founders’ Sip event is just the beginning—Georgetown’s got big plans to keep bourbon lovers coming back. So, grab a glass, plan a visit, and raise a toast to the place where bourbon was born.
