Category, food: Which 200-year old brand of bourbon is the largest selling in the world?

With a history stretching back to 1795, this iconic Kentucky bourbon has been guided by the same family for seven generations. Founded by Jacob Beam, the distillery has grown from a small family operation into the number one selling bourbon on the planet, solidifying its place as a global spirits leader. While the family had been making whiskey for over a century, the brand's modern identity was forged in the wake of Prohibition.

After the national ban on alcohol was lifted, James B. "Jim" Beam, then 70 years old, rebuilt the family's distillery in Clermont, Kentucky, in a remarkable 120 days. The bourbon was officially renamed in his honor in 1943 to recognize his tireless effort in resurrecting the business. Today, the recipe and process remain largely unchanged, adhering to the strict U.S. regulations that define bourbon, including being made from at least 51% corn and aged in new, charred oak barrels. This commitment to tradition has helped it maintain its worldwide popularity.