Overview
James B. Beam Distilling Co. in Clermont, Kentucky, is the flagship home of Jim Beam bourbon and one of the most important production campuses in Kentucky whiskey. Formerly known to many visitors simply as the Jim Beam American Stillhouse, the destination now presents the Beam family story through a modern visitor experience, restaurant, tastings, tours, and education around bourbon production.
The distillery is closely associated with Jim Beam, Knob Creek, Basil Hayden, Baker’s, Booker’s, Old Grand-Dad, Old Overholt, and other brands in the Beam whiskey portfolio. It is a major Kentucky Bourbon Trail destination and a key site for understanding the growth of bourbon from family distilling tradition to global category leadership.
History
The Beam family’s bourbon history is traditionally traced to Jacob Beam, who sold his first barrels of whiskey in Kentucky in the late eighteenth century. The modern Clermont operation is tied to the post-Prohibition rebuilding of the Jim Beam brand under James B. Beam, whose name is now used for the visitor-facing distillery campus.
Over generations, the Beam family became one of the defining dynasties in bourbon. The company’s history includes both large-scale production and influential small-batch innovation, especially through the development of brands that helped shape modern premium bourbon.
Ownership and Operations
James B. Beam Distilling Co. is part of Suntory Global Spirits. The Beam operation remains closely identified with multi-generational Beam family whiskey makers, including Fred Noe and Freddie Noe. Production is large scale, but the site also highlights experimentation, blending, and special releases through the Fred B. Noe Distillery and related innovation programs.
The distillery produces bourbon and rye whiskey using disclosed and undisclosed recipes depending on the brand. Mash bills should be verified by brand because the Beam portfolio includes traditional Kentucky straight bourbon, high-rye bourbon, rye whiskey, single barrel releases, and limited-edition blends.
Brands Produced
Major brands associated with the Beam system include Jim Beam, Jim Beam Black, Jim Beam Single Barrel, Knob Creek, Basil Hayden, Baker’s, Booker’s, Old Grand-Dad, Old Overholt, and Little Book. Some brands and expressions may involve different production, maturation, or bottling sites within the broader company network.
Visitor Experience
The Clermont campus offers tours, tastings, a visitor center, retail experiences, and The Kitchen Table restaurant. Visitors can explore the Beam family story, learn about fermentation, distillation, aging, and blending, and purchase select bottles where available. Current hours, ticket availability, and age restrictions should be confirmed directly before planning a trip.
Why This Distillery Matters
James B. Beam Distilling Co. matters because it connects bourbon’s family-distilling heritage with modern global whiskey production. The Beam name is central to Kentucky bourbon history, and the Clermont campus gives visitors a concentrated look at both the classic Jim Beam identity and the premium brands that helped define the small-batch era.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is James B. Beam Distilling Co. located?
It is located in Clermont, Kentucky.
Who owns James B. Beam Distilling Co.?
It is part of Suntory Global Spirits.
Is this the same as Jim Beam Distillery?
Yes. James B. Beam Distilling Co. is the modern name for the historic Jim Beam visitor and production campus in Clermont.
Does James B. Beam Distilling Co. offer tours?
Yes. Tours, tastings, retail, and dining are offered, subject to current scheduling and availability.