California is redefining the bourbon landscape, emerging as a significant player in the distilling industry. As of 2024, the state boasts the highest number of distilleries in the United States, totaling 104, according to data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). This remarkable growth positions California ahead of Kentucky, traditionally known as the heart of bourbon production and home to the famed “bourbon capital of the world,” which now ranks fourth with 82 distilleries.
The surge in California’s distillery count is staggering, showing a dramatic 940% increase since 2011 when only ten distilleries operated in the state. Prior to that, in 2001, California had no distilleries at all. Texas closely follows, with 103 distilleries in 2024, up from just 16 a decade ago.
Daniel Ufland, founder of The Whisky Masters, highlighted the impressive growth of both California and Texas in the craft spirits market. “It’s been exciting to watch these two states develop their own craft spirit scenes,” he stated. “California’s growth trajectory, especially post-2010, has been explosive, while Texas has shown impressive consistent growth since 2006.”
Despite California’s ascent, Kentucky remains influential in the bourbon industry. The Bluegrass State has increased its distillery count from 19 to 84 over the same ten-year period, maintaining its position as a leader in distillery employment, with over 6,000 jobs compared to California’s 917.
According to the BLS, Kentucky’s Louisville Metro area ranks first in the nation for distillery concentration, boasting 22 times the national average. This highlights Kentucky’s ongoing significance in the bourbon sector, even as new players emerge.
The overall number of distilleries in the U.S. has seen a steady rise, jumping from just 66 in 2001 to over 1,400 by 2021. Notably, distilleries, breweries, and wineries accounted for nearly 85% of the beverage manufacturing industry in 2021.
While the precise factors behind California’s booming distillery scene remain unclear, Ufland noted that local distillers are increasingly experimenting with regional botanicals and fruit-based spirits. “In Texas, they’re crafting bold new whiskeys that capture the state’s big, bold personality. In traditional spots like Kentucky, craft distillers are finding ways to honor and reinvent bourbon-making traditions,” he added.
As of 2024, the states with the highest number of distilleries are as follows:
- California: 104
- Texas: 103
- New York: 84
- Kentucky: 82
- Colorado: 75
- Florida: 71
- Illinois: 69
- Pennsylvania: 64
- Washington: 59
- Michigan: 58
With this rapid growth, California is solidifying its status as a formidable contender in the world of bourbon and craft spirits.
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