The Kentucky Bourbon Trail has unveiled a new logo and visual identity to celebrate its 25th anniversary, marking a fresh chapter for this iconic bourbon tourism experience. The redesign honors the trail’s rich history while appealing to a modern audience, from long-time bourbon enthusiasts to newcomers exploring the spirit.
The old logo combined bold and cursive typography with “Bourbon” in a script style highlighting Kentucky Bourbon’s artisanal nature. Barrel-inspired details in the letters “Trail” and “Kentucky” hinted at the production process, while warm brown tones evoked aged bourbon. While meaningful, the design felt cluttered and outdated, making it less adaptable for different uses.
The new logo takes a cleaner, more modern approach. A sleek sans-serif font replaces the mix of bold and cursive, creating a cohesive wordmark with a streamlined, contemporary look. The design incorporates metallic copper tones, inspired by the copper stills used in distillation, paired with a dark teal background. This color combination evokes Kentucky bourbon’s premium quality and heritage while adding a fresh and elegant touch. The typography’s sharp details and balanced proportions add a sense of sophistication, enhancing its versatility across various applications.
One of the biggest changes is the departure from literal imagery. The new logo avoids direct references to barrels or Kentucky state shapes, opting for a minimalist, abstract design that maintains a sense of authenticity. The copper accents tie the logo to bourbon production while keeping the design modern and adaptable.
The updated branding extends beyond the logo, with typefaces and colors reinforcing its refined identity. Klim Type Foundry’s Signifier, known for its sharp angles and polished feel, is paired with GT America from Grilli Type, a practical and approachable font. Together, these typefaces balance sophistication and readability, making the brand feel premium without being inaccessible.
The color palette further ties into the bourbon theme. Inspired by distillation equipment, copper tones dominate the design, while muted teal and warm metallic accents add depth. This restrained yet striking combination bridges the trail’s traditional roots and forward-thinking vision, creating a look that works across both physical and digital platforms.
The updated logo and identity reflect a thoughtful evolution of the Kentucky Bourbon Trail. With its clean design, intentional color choices, and versatile typography, the rebranding celebrates the trail’s legacy while positioning it for continued success in a global digital tourism market.
