FRANKFORT, Ky. (AP) – Here’s a topic for barroom chats: Are today’s whiskeys better than old-time spirits? Kentucky lawmakers gave final approval Wednesday to a bill that could stir those conversations.
The legislation sent to Gov. Matt Bevin by the state Senate would allow vintage bottles of spirits to be put back into circulation in the state known as the world’s bourbon capital.
The measure would allow people who possess unopened, out-of-circulation bottles of spirits to sell them to bars, restaurants or liquor stores.
Supporters see it as another way to boost the booming bourbon tourism industry.
If the bill becomes law, it would tap into pent-up demand among people willing to sell their old bottles and whiskey fans longing to sample rare spirits, supporters said.
Kentucky bars and restaurants could seek out hard-to-get bottles to put on their shelves and pour out as shots or mixed in cocktails. The trend has become popular in cities in some other states.