Craft bourbon distilleries gain ground as innovative producers reshape the American whiskey scene

Across the United States, a new generation of craft bourbon distilleries is quietly reshaping the whiskey landscape. While established brands like Buffalo Trace and Maker’s Mark remain popular, smaller producers are gaining attention for their innovative approaches and distinctive flavors. These lesser-known bourbons are emerging from states both expected and surprising, offering enthusiasts a fresh perspective on America’s native spirit.

In Newport, Kentucky, New Riff Distilling has quickly built a reputation for quality with its Bottled in Bond Bourbon. Adhering to strict federal standards—aged at least four years, bottled at 100 proof, and non-chill filtered—New Riff’s bourbon stands out for its balance of caramel sweetness and spicy rye notes. The distillery, founded in 2014, has become a favorite among those seeking something beyond the mainstream.

Wilderness Trail Distillery in Danville, Kentucky, takes a different approach by using a sweet mash process rather than the more common sour mash. This method, combined with careful aging in low-heat warehouses, results in a bourbon that is rich and complex, with flavors of dark cherry and black pepper. Wilderness Trail’s commitment to traditional techniques and patience in aging has earned it respect among bourbon aficionados.

Pinhook Bourbon, based in Frankfort, Kentucky, treats its releases like wine vintages. Each batch is unique, reflecting the nuances of the year’s production. The Bourbon Heist release is notable for its blend of honeyed sweetness and roasted peanut undertones. Pinhook’s vintage approach appeals to collectors and drinkers interested in exploring subtle differences from year to year.

Chattanooga Whiskey in Tennessee is making waves with its 111-proof bourbon. Unfiltered and robust, this whiskey delivers bold flavors of toasted marshmallow and espresso. Founded in 2011, Chattanooga Whiskey has helped revive legal distilling in the city after a century-long ban. Its high-proof offerings have attracted both cocktail enthusiasts and those who prefer sipping whiskey neat.

Frey Ranch Distillery in Fallon, Nevada, demonstrates that great bourbon can come from unexpected places. As a grain-to-glass operation, Frey Ranch grows all its own grains on-site. This control over ingredients gives its straight bourbon a distinctive citrus brightness alongside classic caramel notes. The distillery’s agricultural roots set it apart from many competitors.

In Borden, Indiana, Starlight Distillery produces Carl T. Bourbon using small-batch methods and family expertise. The Huber family experiments with various cask finishes—including honey and port—adding layers of flavor to their core product. Carl T. Bourbon is known for its buttery texture and hints of maple syrup and toasted almond.

Texas’ Ironroot Republic Distillery leverages the state’s intense climate to accelerate bourbon aging. Its Harbinger expression is high-proof and full-bodied, featuring dark chocolate and dried fruit flavors balanced by oak spice. Ironroot’s approach highlights how regional conditions can influence the final character of a whiskey.

Bluegrass Distillers in Lexington, Kentucky, has embraced the trend of finishing bourbon in toasted oak barrels. Their Toasted Oak Bourbon offers notes of vanilla and coconut with a subtle smokiness reminiscent of campfire. This style appeals to drinkers looking for something familiar yet distinct from traditional charred barrel-aged bourbons.

Kings County Distillery in Brooklyn, New York, pushes boundaries with its Peated Bourbon—a rare style that combines American corn-based sweetness with smoky flavors more commonly found in Scotch whisky. The result is an unusual but compelling blend of caramel, earthy peat, and citrus peel.

Redwood Empire Distilling in Sonoma County, California—better known for wine than whiskey—produces Pipe Dream Bourbon with a smooth profile featuring baked apple and cinnamon notes. Redwood Empire sources some of its grains locally and ages its spirits among the region’s famous redwoods, adding another layer of uniqueness to its products.

These ten craft bourbons represent just a fraction of what is happening across the country as independent distilleries experiment with ingredients, aging techniques, and barrel finishes. Many are family-owned or operated by small teams passionate about their craft. Their willingness to innovate while respecting tradition is drawing new fans to American whiskey.

The rise of these producers reflects broader trends in consumer preferences toward authenticity and variety. As more drinkers seek out unique bottles beyond the big brands, craft distilleries are responding with creativity and dedication to quality. For those willing to explore beyond familiar labels, there is an expanding world of bourbon waiting to be discovered on shelves nationwide.