Craig Beam is the Master Distiller at Jackson Purchase Distillery and a 2025 inductee to the Kentucky Bourbon Hall of Fame. He began his bourbon education at just ten years old, learning from his grandfather Earl—a nephew of Jim Beam and Master Distiller at Heaven Hill for over 30 years—and later from his father Parker, who succeeded Earl as Master Distiller in 1975. In 1983, Craig officially joined Heaven Hill, gaining hands-on experience in every aspect of distillery operations, from sweeping floors to managing rickhouses and running stills. He worked closely with his father on flagship brands while introducing acclaimed new labels, including the Evan Williams and Elijah Craig single barrel series, and successfully launching the Parker's Heritage series and Larceny Wheated Bourbon. Now Craig brings his vast bourbon-making experience to Jackson Purchase Distillery, returning to the Master Distiller role with one of Kentucky's fastest growing distilleries.