Beam Institute Industry Conference reaches Kentucky and beyond

The James B. Beam Institute for Kentucky Spirits (JBBI) took over the University of Kentucky’s campus this week for the annual James Beam Industry Conference. In partnership with the Kentucky Distillers’ Association (KDA), the conference serves all members of the industry in areas that include production, procurement, finance, branding, tourism and research.

Although 750 Kentuckians attended this year’s conference, it has grown to include 14 countries, 39 states, Puerto Rico and Washington D.C., with more than 1,100 attendees.

The idea for the conference came from the University of Kentucky’s mission of service. Seth DeBolt, Ph.D., JBBI director, and Ilka Balk, associate director, wanted to offer something different to industry members.

“Inviting folks to campus allows us to showcase that, while we are a central hub for spirits education, we also support research and economic development,” Balk said. “We wanted to offer something that didn’t feel transactional — experts speaking directly from their experience, their research.”

KDA has partnered in developing and hosting the conference since its inception, helping to connect academic research with real-world industry application through its extensive network of distillers, suppliers and partners.

“This is where the future of our industry takes shape,” said Colleen Thomas, KDA vice president of membership and operations. “By bringing together the researchers driving new discovery with the industry leaders navigating today’s realities, our partnership with JBBI creates a forum that doesn’t just reflect the industry — it helps define where it goes next.”

Also, for the first time, the conference served as the launchpad for the class-crafted Wildcask Bourbon. Students in in UK’s commercialization of distilled spirits course unveiled the second release of Wildcask Bourbon, a student‑created brand developed at JBBI. After working since August to refine the blend and branding, the class produced a new 2026 edition that builds on the success of the inaugural release while introducing its own unique character. The bourbon — crafted from a carefully selected combination of four sourced whiskies and bottled at 100 proof — was available for presale exclusively to conference attendees, marking a hands‑on milestone in the students’ education and entrepreneurial experience.

JBBI’s mission is to lead the global advancement of the American whiskey industry through workforce education, scientific discovery, environmental sustainability, community and social responsibility. DeBolt said this conference checks all those boxes.

“Having the support of the university and the KDA is integral to this conference’s success,” DeBolt said. “Each year I am thrilled for the opportunity to emphasize technology transfer, serve our industry partners, create a welcoming networking environment and be a platform for the next generation of the spirits workforce.”

The momentum of the conference is not slowing any time soon. The eighth annual JBBI Industry Conference is March 15-17, 2027, on UK’s campus.

 Stay up to date with the work happening at JBBI at beaminstitute.mgcafe.uky.edu.