Kentucky Bourbon: The Essential Guide to the American Spirit

by Susan Reigler, Julian Van Winkle III (foreword)

Raise your glass to the liquid bounty of the Bluegrass State with this lavish, comprehensive companion.


Celebrate Kentucky bourbon, from Angel’s Envy and Buffalo Trace to Willett and Woodford Reserve, by exploring the history of the drink, its heritage, influence, and how production affects what you taste in the glass. Each chapter of this handsomely illustrated volume profiles one distillery, featuring engaging stories of its origins, evolution, and initiatives for the future. Tasting notes for recommended bottles include popular favorites and worthy splurges so you can learn more about your preferred drams and discover exciting new expressions to try. Capsule biographies illuminate the achievements of distillers and other colorful characters alongside archival images and gorgeous photography that bring the fields, stills, rickhouses, bottles, and whiskeys beautifully to life. Meticulously researched, this thorough compendium also highlights must-visit events and attractions near the distilleries, allowing you to plan a pilgrimage or relive the experience of a lifetime. Kentucky Bourbon will help you enjoy the crown jewel of the commonwealth in all its splendor.

248 pages, Hardcover

Published August 19, 2025

Reviews

[John (LHBC) · Rating 3 out of 5]

Susan Reigler’s Kentucky Bourbon: The Essential Guide to the American Spirit is clearly the product of serious expertise and care. Reigler knows bourbon history, production, and culture cold, and she explains it in a way that feels welcoming rather than preachy. By the end, you understand not just where bourbon comes from, but why Kentucky still defines the category. It is the kind of book that makes a casual drinker more curious and a regular bourbon fan more thoughtful with every pour.

That said, the audio format is a mixed bag. Christina Delaine’s narration is strong and steady, but the material itself often works against her. This book leans heavily on lists, tasting notes, and detailed distillery breakdowns, which are useful information but not always engaging to hear straight through. There were moments where I found myself wishing I could see the pages instead of listening, especially during longer runs of stats or bottle recommendations. It is informative audio, just not especially immersive.

Still, there is real value here. Listening to this felt like taking a comprehensive bourbon class rather than being told a single story, and that has its own appeal. If you want a deep, structured understanding of Kentucky bourbon, this delivers. Just know going in that this is a reference-style listen, not a narrative one. Think of it as bourbon education for your ears, best paired with an actual glass in hand.

[LM · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kentucky Bourbon by Susan Reigler, narrated by Christina Delaine, is the perfect companion for both newcomers to Kentucky bourbon and seasoned enthusiasts. Reigler offers a concise yet rich history of the heritage, craftsmanship, and nuances behind some of the most celebrated bourbon distilleries, pairing it with helpful tips and standout details along the way.

The book reads like a guided tour through Kentucky’s bourbon landscape, highlighting the unique character of each distillery. For anyone planning a trip, the recommendations for lodging and dining are especially valuable, and the overview of annual bourbon events—complete with when they take place—adds even more depth.

This is truly an all-encompassing tribute to Kentucky bourbon, presented with clarity, enthusiasm, and appreciation. I found it both informative and inspiring. In fact, I’m planning a trip next spring for my husband’s birthday, and this book provided everything I need to begin the planning process.

Thank you to Susan Reigler, HighBridge Audio, and NetGalley for the ALC.

[Belva W · Rating 5 out of 5]

In Kentucky Bourbon, Susan Reigler shares her vast knowledge about everything bourbon, taking you on a tour through distilleries, restaurants, events, etc. I found the histories of the legacy distilleries as well as newer ones to be very interesting. I was born, raised and live in Kentucky so I love championing the parts of our beautiful state that make it unique. This would make a great coffee table book or gift for bourbon aficionados or anyone interested in doing a bourbon tour. In fact, I plan on picking up a couple copies myself. My thanks to Highbridge Audio for providing the audiobook via NetGalley for review. All opinions are my own.

[Roberta Godoy · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a very interesting way to learn more about the drink. It includes some history, some tasting tips and prices, and lots of information for those who know nothing about the drink to learn more and become interested in visiting distilleries and taking a tasting tour.

Excellent audiobook narration by Christina Delaine.

[Jacob Smith · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was a good over view of Kentucky Bourbon. Great pictures and a good variety of information. Definitely recommend for anyone looking to get some quick information on what the KY Bourbon Trail provides.

[Emilie M · Rating 4 out of 5]

I think this is my third book I’ve read on bourbon? And this is definitely the one I’d recommend reading FIRST, before going on the bourbon trail or if deciding which distilleries to visit!