The Kentucky bourbon industry, valued at $9 billion, finds itself in a precarious position as it navigates the complexities of the ongoing Trump trade war. Distillers are preparing for potential retaliatory tariffs, which could raise costs for consumers and threaten jobs within the spirits sector. State officials and industry advocates are voicing concerns over the impact of these tariffs, with calls for a strategic response to protect local producers. Meanwhile, some distillers are looking to capitalize on market gaps created by the turmoil. As the situation develops, the bourbon community continues to brace for the repercussions of trade disputes, urging lawmakers to reconsider the necessity of such tariffs.