Minister Nally will meet with lawmakers and industry leaders to gain insights into the legislative framework behind bourbon’s legal designation, the creation of the Kentucky Bourbon Trail, and strategies that have successfully attracted investment and visitors.

“Alberta’s distilling industry is thriving, and we want to ensure it reaches its full potential. By learning from Kentucky’s success, we can strengthen our industry, create new opportunities for businesses and support local communities.”

Dale Nally, Minister of Service Alberta and Red Tape Reduction

Kentucky has built bourbon into a globally recognized product and a cornerstone of its tourism strategy, drawing more than two million visitors each year. Minister Nally’s mission will explore how these achievements were realized and how Alberta can apply similar strategies at home.

The trip will also include discussions with Kentucky lawmakers on reducing administrative burdens and improving government efficiency. Minister Nally will share Alberta’s progress on red tape reduction and highlight the province’s commitment to making it easier for businesses to succeed in Alberta.

Minister Nally will be joined by one staff member and an official from Service Alberta and Red Tape Reduction. Representatives from Alberta’s liquor and tourism sectors have also been invited to participate at their own expense.

Mission expenses will be posted on the travel and expense disclosure page.

Alberta’s government is committed to working with partners at home and abroad to open new opportunities for people and businesses, and to strengthen Alberta’s reputation on the global stage.

Quick facts

  • The Kentucky Bourbon Trail was established by the Kentucky Distillers’ Association in 1999.  
  • Initially the Kentucky Bourbon Trail included 10 distillers, and the network has since increased to 41 (18 major distillers and 23 smaller producers).  
  • The Kentucky Bourbon Trail attracts two million visitors a year and has hosted more than 20 million since its inception.  
  • There are 38 whisky producers in Alberta.  
  • Alberta whiskies have received international recognition.
    • Alberta distillers won gold, silver, and bronze medals in several categories, including Rye, New Make and Young Spirit, Flavoured Whisky, Canadian Blended, and Single Malt at the 2024 World Whiskies Awards.

Itinerary for Minister Nally*

Sept. 2
  • Travel to Louisville, Kentucky.

Sept. 3
  • Meetings with government officials.

Sept. 4
  • Meeting with Kentucky Distillers’ Association, tour and briefings.

Sept. 5
  • Meetings with government officials, tour.

Sept. 6
  • Meetings and policy sessions with officials, distillery tours. 

Sept. 7
  • Industry tours.

Sept. 8
  • Return to Alberta.

*Subject to change.

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