Jim Rutledge is a living legend in the world of bourbon, celebrated for his transformative contributions to the industry. Born and raised in Kentucky, Rutledge’s deep connection to bourbon culture culminated in a remarkable career that has left an indelible mark on American whiskey.
From 1994 to 2015, Rutledge served as the Master Distiller at Four Roses Bourbon. Under his leadership, Four Roses regained its status as a premium bourbon, known for its complex flavor profiles and meticulous craftsmanship. His innovative approach to blending Four Roses’ ten distinct recipes showcased his expertise and passion, elevating the distillery to global acclaim.
Rutledge’s contributions have been widely recognized. In 2001, he was inducted into the Bourbon Hall of Fame, honoring his impact on the industry. In 2012, he earned a rare distinction as one of only 13 inductees into the Icons of Whiskey Hall of Fame, and one of just two Americans to receive this prestigious global honor. His leadership extended beyond the distillery, serving on the Kentucky Distillers Association’s Board of Directors and as a former Chairman of the Kentucky Bourbon Festival Board, where he helped promote bourbon heritage, tourism, and growth of bourbon's market reach.
After retiring from Four Roses in 2015, Rutledge remained a pivotal figure in the industry. As a highly sought-after consultant and contract distiller, he lent his expertise to various distilleries across Kentucky’s Bluegrass region, crafting exceptional whiskies and mentoring the next generation of distillers. His reputation for precision and innovation have made him a trusted authority in the field.
Today, Jim Rutledge continues to shape the bourbon landscape as an owner, master distiller, and blender at Pennyroyal Distillery. His work at Pennyroyal reflects his lifelong commitment to quality and tradition, ensuring his legacy as a bourbon icon endures.
