Jim Beam to Halt Production at Main Kentucky Distillery for All of 2026. Jim Beam, one of the world's best-known bourbon brands, says it will pause production at its main Kentucky distillery for the whole of next year. The company says the shutdown will allow it to invest in upgrades at the site, while adjusting output to match consumer demand. The distillery's owner, Suntory Global Spirits, stressed that other operations in Kentucky – including another distillery, bottling and warehousing plants – will continue running, and the visitor centre will stay open. Jim Beam is now discussing how to deploy its workforce during the pause and is in talks with the workers' union. The move comes as Kentucky's bourbon industry faces growing pressure. Warehouses across the state are holding a record 16 million barrels, driving up tax costs, while US trade tariffs and retaliation linked to President Donald Trump's policies have added uncertainty. For an industry built on patience, this is a strategic pause – not a full stop.