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16 Must-visit Kentucky Distilleries

These Kentucky distilleries offer tours, tastings, and more for the ultimate trip through Bourbon Country.

Elizabeth Rhodes is a special projects editor at Travel + Leisure , covering everything from luxury hotels to theme parks to must-pack travel products. Originally from South Carolina, Elizabeth moved to New York City from London, where she started her career as a travel blogger and writer.

Most of the world's bourbon comes from Kentucky. All of the big bourbon names are here: Jim Beam, Woodford Reserve, Maker's Mark, Wild Turkey. The state's natural environment and weather are perfect for growing corn, an essential ingredient in bourbon, and distilling, so when spirit-savvy European immigrants settled in Kentucky in the 1700s, it was a match made in whiskey heaven.

Now, hundreds of years later, people can visit the state to experience the top Kentucky distilleries — some which have been crafting spirits for generations — including those along the Kentucky Bourbon Trail , a route with 42 distilleries offering tastings and tours.

Kentucky distillery tours, tastings, and experiences show visitors how spirits are made. Tour-goers walk away with a better grasp on the process, a more refined palate, and probably a few bottles to take home. Those looking for a well-rounded whiskey experience should start their journey at the Kentucky Bourbon Trail Welcome Center in Louisville. Here, visitors can learn more about bourbon history and plot their distillery stops.

Make Louisville your home base for a multiday trip along the trail — the city is home to its own Urban Bourbon Trail . The bars on it serve at least 60 kinds of bourbon and have trained staff who can answer questions, so you're sure to leave Kentucky with a new appreciation for the brown spirit.

Here are 16 Kentucky distilleries all bourbon fans should visit — and don't worry, some even offer gin or vodka for those hoping for variety.

Wild Turkey, Lawrenceburg

With an award-winning visitor center designed with the traditional silhouette of a Kentucky tobacco barn, a tasting room that looks out over the Kentucky River, and a gift shop selling souvenirs and Wild Turkey bourbon (of course), this is the perfect place to learn how the famous brand's spirits are made. You might even spot Hall of Fame distillers Jimmy and Eddie Russell hard at work.

Bulleit Distilling Co., Shelbyville

Bulleit Distilling Co. opened its distillery to visitors in 2017, making it a relatively new addition to the Kentucky distillery scene, but the bourbon made here is based on family tradition dating back to the 1800s. A "high-rye recipe" sets the spirit apart from others in Kentucky Bourbon Country. Stop at the Shelbyville distillery to give it a taste and learn about the brand's history through an interactive, multisensory experience.

James B. Beam Distilling Co., Clermont

Jim Beam is one of the most recognizable names in Kentucky bourbon, which makes the James B. Beam Distilling Co. a must-experience for many. The distillery is located in Clermont, where the first Jim Beam was distilled in the late 18th century. Guests can take a tour, dine on Kentucky burgoo and hot honey fried chicken in The Kitchen Table Restaurant, and sample its signature cocktails at the bar.

Maker's Mark Distillery, Loretto

An iconic brand known for its red wax-dipped bottles, the Maker's Mark Distillery in Loretto is a National Historic Landmark. It also claims to be the largest distillery in the world and the first in Kentucky's Bourbon Country. On tours, guests can learn about the history of the brand, dating back to the 1950s, its makers, and its centuries-old recipe. You can even Make Your Mark by hand-dipping a bottle to take home in the classic red wax at the DIY dipping station.

Woodford Reserve Distillery, Versailles

Visit Woodford Reserve's historic distillery in Versailles for tours and tastings in a beautiful pastoral environment speckled with pre-Prohibition warehouses and made serene by trickling Glenn’s Creek. Another National Historic Landmark, the distillery is where Woodford Reserve says the "art of making fine bourbon first took place" in 1812.

Buffalo Trace Distillery, Frankfort

This family-owned distillery has traditions dating back to the late 1700s. Now a National Historic Landmark, Buffalo Trace Distillery welcomes whiskey drinkers to sip and learn about the history of bourbon production on a tour. It's not all about the brown beverage here, either: Buffalo Trace also makes some tasty vodkas and refreshing sodas.

Four Roses Distillery, Lawrenceburg

Take a tour or enjoy a guided tasting at this Lawrenceburg distillery . Built in 1910, the unique Spanish mission-style facility is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, so you can enjoy a history lesson while learning about Four Roses' unique recipes. After your tour, you can sit down with a seasonal cocktail at Bar 1888 (fun fact: 1888 was the year "Four Roses" became trademarked).

Angel's Envy Distillery, Louisville

Located on Louisville's Whiskey Row, this distillery offers unique tours and tasting experiences. The Bottle Your Own Single Barrel option, for example, gives visitors the chance to bring home a bottle they filled themselves. Besides tours, you can also take courses here, including a fun Manhattan or rye cocktail-making class that puts you behind the bar.

Castle & Key Distillery, Frankfort

Often regarded as one of the best distilleries in the country, Castle & Key offers tours and tastings in the Old Taylor Distillery in Frankfort. The Castle itself stands as the main attraction, but the grounds also include a sunken garden and beautiful springhouse. Exploring the property is as fun as tasting the bourbon in a cocktail from Counter 17. And if you tire of bourbon (hey, it happens), then try a Castle & Key-distilled gin or vodka instead.

Bardstown Bourbon Company, Bardstown

This innovative distillery , located on 100 acres in a small town south of Louisville, offers experiences ranging from blind tastings and blending demonstrations to food pairings and mixology classes. There's also an on-site restaurant with boozy milkshakes, poutine, chicharrónes, and bourbon-spiked bread pudding.

Green River Distilling Co., Owensboro

Learn how whiskey goes from grain to barrel, partake in a custom called barrel "thieving" (tasting bourbon straight from the barrel), or sit with the experts at Green River Distilling Co. while you sip. The distillery is in Owensboro, just across the Ohio River from Indiana. Without a tour, you'll still have a great experience sampling a flight at the cocktail lounge.

Heaven Hill Bourbon Experience, Bardstown

Founded in 1935, Heaven Hill Distillery maintains more than a million barrels aging in 60 warehouses across Kentucky for a portfolio of brands. Go for a tour at Heaven Hill Bourbon Experience, in the maker's birthplace of Bardstown, for a behind-the-scenes look at its production process, stroll through the on-site museum, and enjoy a tasting at the Five Brothers Bar.

James E. Pepper Distillery, Lexington

Named for the Kentucky colonel and third-generation distiller who advocated for his family's whiskey recipe in the 1800s, the James E. Pepper Distillery reopened in 2018 after being dormant for half a century. Now at the heart of the Lexington Distillery District, it welcomes bourbon lovers in for tastings and a casual history lesson on the distillery, the family, its ties to horse racing, and how the American Revolution played a role in Pepper-made bourbon.

Limestone Branch Distillery, Lebanon

Keeping family bourbon and moonshine recipes alive for more than 200 years, Limestone Branch is run by a couple of seventh-generation distillers. The Lebanon location is a tranquil place to visit for an old-fashioned tour and a cocktail of the highest quality from the Minor's Lounge on site. It's particularly worthwhile if you also have an interest in gin, as the clear spirit is produced here, too.

Old Forester Distilling Co., Louisville

Take a tour of Old Forester 's Whiskey Row facility to learn how the 1870-founded brand ferments, distills, matures, and bottles its bourbon. Per usual, each tour ends with a tasting. However, if you miss out — this place gets busy and books tours months in advance — you'll still walk away with a higher whiskey IQ after trying the bourbon varieties at George's Bar.

Kentucky Peerless Distilling Company, Louisville

Housed in a former tobacco warehouse at the end of Whiskey Row in downtown Louisville, Kentucky Peerless is really into making rye whiskey, but it also does bourbon. A visit to the distillery can be enhanced by a guided tasting, distillery tour, or private VIP Heritage Experience. A bonus to your visit: meeting the distillery cat, aptly named Rye.

13 Best Bourbon Trail Tours: A Regional Travel Guide to Kentucky’s Distilleries

Ready, Set, Bourbon! Check out this guide to the best bourbon trail tours in Kentucky including Maker's Mark, Evan Williams, Woodford Reserve, & more...

Ready to sip your way through the best bourbon trail tours in Kentucky? This in-depth bourbon distillery tour guide will take you through 13 of the best Kentucky bourbon distillery tours like Maker’s Mark, Woodford Reserve, Old Forester, Evan Williams, Buffalo Trace, Jim Beam, & many more.

Each distillery offers a unique experience, from the tour of the distillery to the tasting room. With this in-depth bourbon distillery tour guide, you can easily plan your trip and choose the best bourbon trail tours in Kentucky to suit your taste and preferences. Get ready to discover the rich history and distinct flavors of Kentucky’s signature drink!

3 Tips for Kentucky’s Bourbon Trail

1. When you are planning, ask yourself: What is my favorite bourbon brand (or the one I’d like to know more about)?

Once you settle on those favorites, see what other distilleries are located nearby that you might enjoy touring and tasting then reserve those to fill in the rest of the day.

2. RESERVE IN ADVANCE.

As soon as you know that you’re taking this trip, start reserving bourbon distillery tours immediately . The best tours book up fast, particularly on the weekends. On my most recent trip in July of 2023, I had to adjust my trip to a day earlier because so many of the tours I wanted to take were already booked.

That being said, if there’s a distillery tour you would like to take that’s located on “Whiskey Row” in downtown Louisville but you can’t book it online, my advice is to go in person and talk to one of the guides at the reservation desk. They might not be able to get you in on a specialty tour, but they can typically get you a space on the regular tour.

*Also note that most distilleries in July (and for some in December as well) close their fermentation facilities for maintenance, meaning you won’t be able to tour those areas.

3. Base yourself in Louisville in a hotel on or near Whiskey Row.

From here, you can easily walk or Uber / Lyft to 4+ amazing distilleries, which is a great option if the time on your trip is limited. I most recently stayed at Hotel Distil on Whiskey Row, and I would gladly stay there again. It’s an ideal location for walking to all major downtown attractions and distilleries. Plus the Hotel Distil also houses one of Louisville’s best restaurants, Repeal .

Regional Guide to Kentucky’s Distilleries

The Kentucky Bourbon distilleries listed below are grouped within each region and then ranked for their tour and bourbon quality.  The majority of Kentucky’s distilleries are spread throughout the regions of:

• Loretto, Clermont, & Bardstown
• Versailles, Lawrenceburg, & Franklin

Due to the distance between these regions and potentially conflicting tour times, it might be difficult to tour 2 to 3 of your favorite bourbon distilleries in one day. So here are my top three tips for planning your bourbon trail trip.

Now, time to talk about Kentucky’s distilleries…

13 Best Bourbon Trail Tours

Table of Contents

Region: louisville bourbon distilleries, “whiskey row”, evan williams experience.

“Civilization begins with distillation.” William Faulkner

The  Evan Williams Experience  is located in downtown Louisville on historic “Whiskey Row.”

The seamless tour features state-of-the-art films and interactive elements to relay the history of Evan Williams and the art of distilling bourbon. All tours conclude with a bourbon tasting in one of the upstairs rooms on the recreated street of “Whiskey Row.”

One tasting room is a “speakeasy” that once stood on that site with Prohibition-era replica tables where the bourbon could be hidden inside. An easy lift on the tabletop in front of you reveals the inner compartment that contains pre-filled bourbon glasses.

Although it’s one of the lower-priced bourbons, Evan Williams  is remarkably good in its flavor profile, smoothness, and complexity, and Evan Williams Single Barrel is excellent. Whenever I’ve done a blind bourbon-tasting flight, their Single Barrel always ranks in my top 3.

General Tour Information

•  Traditional Tour & Tasting: $18

Evan Williams offers several more extensive tours as well as seasonal tasting experiences, so check their website for the most recent offerings.

Old Forester Distillery

“Always carry a flagon of whisky in case of snakebite, and furthermore, always carry a small snake.” – W.C. Fields

The Old Forester Distillery Tour & Visitor Center opened on “Whiskey Row” in the summer of 2018. Although it’s a relative newcomer to Louisville’s historic downtown district, Old Forester is the only bourbon continuously sold by the same company before, during, and after Prohibition.

But that’s not the bourbon’s only claim to historic fame. In 1870, George Garvin Brown ensured his bourbon’s consistent quality by becoming the first distiller to sell the bourbon in a sealed glass bottle.

The general tour is a top-quality experience with one of the most memorable aspects being that you can see the meticulous barrel-making process first-hand.

It’s one thing to look at a charred American white oak barrel stave, but it’s something else to see (and feel the heat) of that charring in person.

The Old Forester Distillery tour ends as most tours do in a private room with four bourbons to taste.

Paired with the tasting is Old Forester’s chocolate-dipped bourbon modjeskas, which are marshmallows wrapped in caramel and then dipped in bourbon dark chocolate, topped off with smoked sea salt. If you love them, you can buy a bag in the gift shop which is filled with loads of other great gifts.

If you’re in a hurry and can’t find the time to tour Old Forester, you can pay a visit to George’s Bar which is a cozy cocktail lounge offering cocktails and flights in the visitor center.

• Old Forester Tour: $32
• Nothing Better In The Market Tour: $70

Angel’s Envy Distillery Tour

“I wish to live to 150 years old, but the day I die, I wish it to be with a cigarette in one hand and a glass of whiskey in the other.” – Ava Gardner

While I prefer both the Evan Williams Experience and Old Forester Distillery tours over this one, Angel’s Envy is still well worth the visit. The gift shop is large and well-stocked, and the facility is interesting to tour.

The standard tour is exactly that, “standard,” with not a lot of extras to experience, but you will learn the intricate process of making bourbon and why all bourbon is whiskey, but not all whiskey is bourbon.

What makes Angel’s Envy a standout from other bourbons and ryes on the Bourbon Trail is their emphasis on “finishing” the bourbon.

In addition to meeting the bourbon standard aging process (a minimum of two years in a new charred American oak barrel), Angel’s Envy then places its bourbon in port barrels and its rye in rum barrels to finish, lending each one a more distinctive flavor profile which you’ll explore during the tasting at the end of the tour.

500 E Main St, Louisville, KY 40202

• The Signature Tour: $25
• Private Select Tour: $45

Angel’s Envy offers several experiences and classes, so check their website for the most up-to-date offerings.

Michter’s Distillery

“Happiness is having a rare steak, a bottle of whisky, and a dog to eat the rare steak.” – Johnny Carson

Also located on Louisville’s historic “Whiskey Row,” Michter’s Distillery is a great option for those who prefer a tour that doesn’t involve a lot of walking, given that the entire tour takes place in one large room.

Situated across the street from the iconic Louisville Slugger Museum , Michter’s is a smaller facility with limited space, but the tasting is where the tour shines. The guide places an emphasis on tasting notes and the role that smell plays in how we perceive flavors.

801 W Main St, Louisville, KY 40202

• The Discovery Tour: $25
• The Founder’s Tour: $50
• The Legacy Tour: $100

The 2nd floor features The Bar at Fort Nelson which is a relaxed space filled with leather club chairs where you can enjoy classic and creative cocktails. Click here for more information on the Bar at Fort Nelson.

Stitzel-Weller Distillery Tour

“It is true that whisky improves with age. The older I get, the more I like it.” Robert Black

The Stitzel-Weller Distillery is only a 20-minute drive from downtown Louisville, making it one of the most convenient and historic outlying distillery stops along the Kentucky Bourbon Trail. Originally opened on Derby Day in 1935 and reopened to the public in 2014, the Stitzel-Weller Distillery is one of the true cathedrals of the American whiskey industry. 

Bulleit Bourbon (and their Rye) has long been one of my favorite Kentucky bourbons. It’s hard to miss that orange label, tilted just slightly as it curves around the lower half of the bottle. 

In the past few years, I’ve enjoyed the Stitzel-Weller standard tour which guides you around the historic property and buildings, ending with a tasting of these four bourbons in a private tasting room:

• Bulleit Bourbon
• Bulleit 10 Year
• I.W. Harper
• Blade and Bow

Most recently, I booked their new progressive walking tour which combines the tasting with the tour. I really enjoyed this different take on the standard tour where periodically you pause, pull out the provided glass cairn (which is yours to keep as part of the tour), and sip the various bourbons and whiskeys offered along the way. The setting is also picturesque as you stroll from building to building.

3860 Fitzgerald Road, Louisville, KY 40216

• The Stitzel-Weller Experience: $25
• Progressive Walking Tour & Taste: $65

Stitzel-Weller offers a variety of additional classes and experiences, so check their website for the most up-to-date offerings.

Stitzel-Weller is also home to the Garden & Gun Club, located on the 2nd floor of their visitor’s center. Here you can rest your feet while enjoying a light bite and one of their curated cocktails. Click here for the Garden & Gun Club.

Region: Loretto, Clermont, & Bardstown

Maker’s mark distillery.

“Nothing is so musical as the sound of pouring bourbon for the first drink on a Sunday morning. Not Bach or Schubert or any of those masters.” Carson McCullers

The road to  Maker’s Mark bourbon distillery in Loretto, KY, can be a little confusing. On my first visit here, the route guidance told me that I had arrived, and there was nothing but fields, barns, and a small house or two scattered about. 

To avoid potential confusion and arrive in time for your tour, Maker’s Mark provides these instructions for getting to their distillery from Louisville:

Star Hill Farm is located at 3350 Burks Spring Rd., Loretto, KY, 40037. From Louisville: Driving time: Approximately 1 hour, 30 minutes. 

• Take I-65 South from Louisville to exit #112, Clermont/Bernheim Forest exit. At ramp turn left onto Hwy. 245 South to Bardstown. 

• Take Hwy. 245 to intersection of Hwy. 62, turning right, and continue on Hwy. 62 east for approx. 2 miles. Hwy. 62 runs into Hwy. 150 where you will turn left and continue approx. 2 miles and drive past My Old Kentucky Home State Park. 

• At intersection of Hwy. 150 and 49, turn right onto Hwy. 49 South and follow the brown historical landmark signs to Holy Cross, which will direct you to go left onto Hwy. 49. 

• Follow Hwy. 49 where you will turn left onto Hwy. 52 East into Loretto. Continue on through Loretto. 

• Turn left onto Bill Samuels Jr. Rd. and historic Maker’s Mark® Distillery is straight ahead. 

Regardless of which tour you reserve (they offer a wide variety and actively update them), you’re in for a great experience. Plus, Maker’s Mark is just a beautiful place. The grounds, house, and distillery buildings are picture-perfect. 

At the end of each tour, you’ll have an opportunity to taste a selection of their bourbon.  

I’ve had the opportunity to experience 2 of Maker’s Mark Distillery Tours, and if you only have time to tour one of Kentucky’s distilleries, make it this one. It was the hands-down favorite (on currently my 3rd trip) along the Bourbon Trail. 

General Distillery Tour Bourbon Tasting

• Maker’s White (which is basically moonshine or “white dog”)
• Regular Maker’s Mark (the kind you can buy anywhere)
• Maker’s 46 (which is made by inserting seasoned French Oak staves into the bourbon barrels to add additional rich flavor)
• Maker’s Cask Strength (bourbon derived from a single barrel and my favorite of the 4).

After the tasting, you’re given a decadent bourbon chocolate to savor before you walk under the Chihuly glass ceiling of the hallway to the Maker’s Mark gift shop. 

If you like, you can dip your own bottle of Maker’s Mark in their iconic red wax or buy an exclusive bottle of the Maker’s Private Select.

The distillery address is technically: 3350 Burks Spring Road, Loretto, KY 40037.

GPS will try to take you to the Business Office, but the Historic Distillery is more directly accessed using Bill Samuels Jr Road.    

• General Distillery Tour: $ 24
• Behind the Bourbon: $65

Be sure to check the Maker’s Mark website for the most up-to-date tours and experiences.

James B. Beam Distilling Co. (Jim Beam)

“I have never in my life seen a Kentuckian who didn’t have a gun, a pack of cards, and a jug of whiskey.” – Andrew Jackson

It doesn’t get much more iconic than Jim Beam bourbon . With its instantly recognizable name and its best-selling brands including Booker’s, Knob Creek, Basil Hayden, Old Grandad, and, of course, Jim Beam, the distillery is an impressive one to visit.

Located 30 minutes from Louisville by car, it’s an accessible bourbon trail distillery to visit if you don’t want to drive too far afield. Due to the fermentation tanks, rickhouses, and bottling facility being situated fairly far apart, this tour involves riding a large comfortable bus to a couple of the locations, but it’s a quick trip each time.

Quite a lot of thought has been put into the design and aesthetics of the tour experience, with the first building of the tour featuring an indoor waterfall illustrating Kentucky’s natural limestone filtration which makes the whiskey taste better.

Towards the end of the distillery tour, you’ll walk the Knob Creek bottling line where you can hand pick and purchase a Single Barrel bottle and customize the warm wax seal with your thumbprint.

Finally, you return to the Visitor’s Center where you’ll be able to taste four of their most popular bourbons before being set loose in their two-story gift shop.

I really enjoyed this tour, and I would happily do it again. Due to the popularity of this bourbon brand, I feel it’s a great place to start, but the tours fill up fast.

568 Happy Hollow Rd. Clermont, KY 40110

• Bourbon The Beam Way – Distillery Tour & Tasting: $28

Jim Beam Distillery offers several more tasting options and experiences that you can book, so check the website for the most up-to-date listings.

Another great feature of Jim Beam Distillery is their onsite restaurant, The Kitchen Table. Here you can order appetizers, salads, burgers, pizzas, brisket, fried chicken, and even dessert. The large cocktail bar in the center shakes and stirs up some great bourbon cocktails, or just order your favorite bourbon to sip neat.

If you’d like to make a reservation for The Kitchen Table, it’s available on Resy.

Willett Distillery

“There is no bad whiskey. There are only some whiskeys that aren’t as good as others.” Raymond Chandler

Located about 30 minutes from Maker’s Mark is the  Willett Distillery , perched on top of a hill overlooking the green valleys of Bardstown, KY.

One of the most recognizable aspects of Willett bourbon is their striking pot still bottle design.

This rustic family-owned distillery is beautiful and well-maintained from its photo-filled visitor waiting area to the final tasting room.

Because Willett Distillery functions on a smaller scale, only 1 tour experience is offered at this time, so if touring Willett Distillery is at the top of your wishlist, reserve early. They accept bookings 90 days in advance.

1869 Loretto Road, Bardstown, KY 40004.

• Distillery Production Tour with Tasting: $25

Willett Distillery also features “The Bar at Willett” where you can order up-scale small plates alongside classic and inventive cocktails. Reservations are required, so click this link if you’re interested in reserving The Bar at Willett.

Heaven Hill Distillery

“Whiskey is liquid sunshine” George Bernard Shaw

An official member of Kentucky’s Bourbon Trail, Heaven Hill Distillery is also located in Bardstown near the Willett Distillery. 

While their gift shop and visitor center are top-notch with self-guided exhibits and an informative film in their 1935 Distillery Theatre, the actual general tour is not that exciting or enticing, especially when compared to the quality of tours offered by Maker’s Mark & Jim Beam. 

Heaven Hill might not be a familiar name to you, but most likely, you’ve heard of some of their bourbon brands:

• Rittenhouse Rye
• Elijah Craig
• Evan Williams

While the website calls it a bourbon trail “tour,” it’s actually an informed tasting inside a room with a guide. You won’t be walking through rickhouses or seeing yellow bubbling mash unless you pay more for their “Bottled & Bond Tour & Tasting” for $35.

If you’re looking to sample more varieties of bourbon while giving your feet a rest from touring distilleries, or if you’re looking for a more “indoor” experience, Heaven Hill is a great option. 

1311 Gilkey Run, Rd, Bardstown, KY 40004

• Magic of the Mashbill: $18
• Whiskey Connoisseur Experience: $25
• Bottled-in-Bond Tour and Tasting: $35

Heaven Hill also offers a bar experience on the 2nd floor of the visitor’s center called Five Brothers Bar which features bourbon flights and cocktails.

Dining Tip: Eat Lunch in Historic Bardstown

In between touring the many Kentucky distilleries along the bourbon trail, you’re going to want some lunch or dinner, and Bardstown has a lot to offer. 

Perfect for lunch or dinner,  Talbott Tavern , built in 1779, is a site steeped in history.

“The Talbott Tavern is a uniquely well-crafted early American stone building and as a young boy Abraham Lincoln and his family stayed here. .. There are noticeable bullet holes in the now faded paintings where legend Jesse James shot them.” | Dry Stone Masonry Institute of America

In keeping with the theme of the bourbon trail, Talbott Tavern offers a customized flight where you choose your tasting made up of the wide variety of bourbon and rye they serve sourced from the surrounding distilleries. 

Another great option is the Scout & Scholar Brewing Company offering classic pub food and plenty of beer on tap if you’re looking for a break from all that bourbon. But if you’re not, they also offer Private Select Bourbon flights to expand your tasting profile.

Region: Versailles, Lawrenceburg, Franklin

Woodford reserve distillery.

“A good gulp of hot whiskey at bedtime—it’s not very scientific, but it helps.” Alexander Fleming (Inventor of Penicillin)

The Woodford Reserve tour is charming in every aspect—from the old barrel railway used to move the freshly filled barrels to the rickhouse to the on-site bottling facility and visitor/tasting center. This tour was one of the most memorable I have ever been on over the years I’ve been touring Kentucky’s distilleries along the bourbon trail.

The Woodford tour ends, as all do, with the bourbon tasting. The tasting room is located on the other side of the fireplace wall of the visitor center, with a rectangular bar facing the fire. The guide stands in the middle, offering tasting note tips.

We were able to taste the  regular Woodford Reserve  and the Cask Strength  (or dessert bourbon as they call it) combined with a chocolate bourbon truffle. 

7785 McCracken Pike, Versailles, KY 40383

• Woodford Reserve’s Path To Flavor Tour: $32

Woodford Reserve offers several additional tours and specialty experiences, so click the link below to see their current offerings.

Four Roses Distillery

“Whiskey, like a beautiful woman, demands appreciation.” Haruki Murakami

Situated on top of a breezy hill is the most romantic of the Kentucky distilleries along the Bourbon Trail:  Four Roses .

Established in 1888 originally on “Whiskey Row” by Paul Jones, a Louisville businessman, the Four Roses label is rooted in the story of his proposal to a Southern belle named Mary. After courting her for a number of years, Jones asked Mary to respond to his “final” marriage proposal by wearing a corsage of four red roses to a cotillion dance.  This time she accepted and entered the ballroom wearing the corsage.

While Four Roses bourbon is smooth and the distillery, with its Spanish Mission style architecture, has a unique and interesting story from 1888 to the present, the tour itself can still use some work. It’s more of a “Cliff’s Notes” brief summary version of how they make their bourbon.

Their bottling facility is located at a different location as well, so that element of the process can’t be witnessed on-site. If you have the time, you can take your distillery tour ticket stub and visit the bottling facility for free if you’re interested.

You will be given four bourbons to taste:  The Standard Yellow Lable Four Roses, The Small Batch, Single Barrel, and The Cask Strength.

Before or after your tour, browse the large gift shop fittingly accented throughout with roses or you can enjoy a cocktail or bourbon tasting in Bar 1888.

1224 Bonds Mill Road, Lawrenceburg, KY 40342

• Distillery Legacy Tour: $22

Four Roses Distillery offers several additional tasting experiences as well as seasonal offerings, so check their website for the most up-to-date tours.

Buffalo Trace Distillery

“Too much of anything is bad, but too much good whiskey is barely enough.” Mark Twain

Buffalo Trace Distillery is a juggernaut in the world of bourbon.

Consider the brands they make; in addition to the standard Buffalo Trace Bourbon, they are also responsible for crafting Eagle Rare, Blanton’s (John Wick’s bourbon of choice), Pappy Van Winkle, E.H. Taylor, Stagg, Sazerac Rye, and Weller to name a few.   

What sets Buffalo Trace Distillery even further apart from the competition is that they never charge for their tours. They are always complementary. That being said, you still have to reserve in advance, particularly if you want to go on a specialty experience like: The Buffalo Trace Hard Hat Tour .

Even if you’re not overly into bourbon, the grounds are beautiful, not to mention they have one of the largest and most interesting gift shops of the distilleries along the bourbon trail. The tours are also highly detailed and informative.

That being said, the bourbon tasting experience at the end of the tour leaves a little to be desired. Due to limited quantities, Buffalo Trace only offers a few brands for tasting and purchasing in the Visitor Center. 

113 Great Buffalo Trace, Franklin County, Frankfort, KY 40601

• All Buffalo Trace tours are complimentary including tours for large groups or tours that require reservations.
• The Trace Tour
• The Hard Hat Tour
• The Expansion Tour
• Old Taylor Tour

Additional Tours are available focusing on the gardens and historic landmarks, so check their website for current offerings.

Wild Turkey Distillery

“There’s no app for a bourbon buzz on a warm day in a cool, dark bar. The world will always want a drink.” Gillian Flynn

The  Wild Turkey Tour  is as industrial as it gets. Not that it makes the tour less interesting, but I prefer the smaller distilleries along the Bourbon Trail as opposed to the mass conglomerate operations. 

The tour lasts about one hour, and you get to see where they make the bourbon as well as where they bottle the various vodka brands that they own. An impressive operation, to say the least. 

The Visitor Center is a fun place to look around and learn a bit more about the history of the distillery location and the origin of the name. Currently, Wild Turkey is closed to visitors and tours as they refresh the visitor’s center, so I’m looking forward to see what updates they have in store.

1417 Versailles Rd, Lawrenceburg, KY 40342

Final Thoughts

“My own experience has been that the tools I need for my trade are paper, tobacco, food, and a little whisky.” William Faulkner

Every year, I look forward to visiting more distilleries along Kentucky’s bourbon trail so check back for updates.

The next two bourbon trail distilleries on my hit list include:

• Bulleit Distilling Company Visitor Experience
• Castle & Key Distillery

While I did a tour and tasting of Bulleit when it was located at the Stitzel-Weller facility, I have yet to visit their new Visitor Center experience that opened in 2019 in Shelbyville, KY. Click here for more information.

And finally, the distillery that is currently intriguing me the most is Castle & Key, which I saw from a distance when I was driving to Lexington. It actually looks like a castle, and in addition to their distillery and grounds tours, they offer a rotating calendar of events. Click here for more information.

Everyone’s taste is unique and preferences differ, but hopefully, this guide helps you discover your go-to bourbon as you forge your own path along Kentucky’s bourbon trail.

If you’re planning on staying in Louisville, then be sure to check out the Go-To Louisville KY Guide for Best Hotels, Attractions, & Dining .

Leave a Comment

7 thoughts on “13 best bourbon trail tours: a regional travel guide to kentucky’s distilleries”.

You’re welcome, and I’m glad you found the information helpful. Enjoy your trip this summer!

Thank you for posting all of the information with tour prices and your opinion. I am looking forward to visiting Kentucky this summer 2023.

Hi Terri, I would recommend checking out the Pegasus Kentucky Bourbon Trail Tour Packages. They are rated really well and offer several packages to choose from with a driver to take you to the distillery region of your choice for the tours. My personal favorite region is the South / Bardstown Distilleries which includes Maker’s Mark (my favorite tour).

https://www.takepegasusdistilled.com/distillery-packages

Hope this helps!

I want to find a package tour that goes to several distilleries/breweries, one inclusive price, and transportation. Is there such a thing?

I would recommend checking out the Pegasus Kentucky Bourbon Trail Tour Packages. They are rated really well and offer several packages to choose from with a driver to take you to the distillery region of your choice for the tours. My personal favorite region is the South / Bardstown Distilleries which includes Maker’s Mark (my favorite tour).

Here is the link: https://www.takepegasusdistilled.com/distillery-packages

If you’re staying in Louisville, The Brown Hotel is my favorite, but there are lots of great hotels along 3rd street between W Broadway and the Riverwalk which put you right in the middle of Louisville’s downtown scene where you can walk to restaurants and other attractions.

Hope these suggestions help, and I hope you have a great trip!

Want to schedule a tour for three and set up a driver to visit 2 top rated distillery’s Also will need accommodations for 2 nites. .any suggestions.

Thanks! Glad you enjoyed the post. I’ll be sure to check out your site as well!

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• Distillery Tours

Exciting Tours of the Kentucky Distilling Industry

An Insider's Guide to the Origin of Bourbon 

As the world’s thirst for Kentucky Bourbon grows, the state’s distilling industry continues to grow, offering new and improved visitor experiences. New bourbon attractions are opening all of the time in Bourbon Country.

At this moment, more than 20 working bourbon distilleries in Kentucky make more than 200 of your favorite brands. Most of these working bourbon distilleries offer active tours and unique visitor experiences that include tastings and gift shops.

From varying recipes and yeast strains to barrel char and age levels, each bourbon distillery practices the art of making bourbon just a little differently. You will find a unique experience in the sights, sounds and tastes of each tour as you take in the magic that is making whiskey during each of the tours highlighted below.

Each of the Kentucky Bourbon distilleries on this list, from the craft variety makers to the world’s largest producers, invite visitors to stop by to learn about their brands and have a taste.

Check out the many different bourbon experiences offered in each region of Bourbon County:

Angel’s Envy Distillery

Barrel House Distilling Co.

Barton’s 1792 Distillery

Boone County Distilling Company

Brough Brothers Distillery

Buffalo Trace Distillery

Buzzard’s Roost Spirits

Casey Jones Distillery

Castle & Key Distillery

Copper & Kings American Brandy

Evan Williams Bourbon Experience

Four Roses Bourbon Warehouse and Bottling

Four Roses Distillery

Frazier History Museum: Kentucky Bourbon Trail® Welcome Center

Green River Distilling Co.

Hartfield & Company Distillery

Heaven Hill Distilleries

Jeptha Creed Distillery

Jim Beam American Stillhouse

Kentucky Artisan Distillery

Kentucky Mist Moonshine Distillery

Kentucky Peerless Distilling

Limestone Branch Distillery

Log Still Distillery at Dant Crossing

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The purpose of fun is to have some, so come join us on a kentucky bourbon trail tour.

Mint Julep Experiences has been providing top-notch luxury bourbon trail tours in Bourbon Country for more than 12 years. As the leading tour company for the Kentucky Bourbon Trail ®, we  have given thousands of public and custom tours for tourists and locals alike. Mint Julep takes care of every detail and caters to every need, to create one-of-a-kind bourbon tours.

Kentucky Bourbon Trail® Tours

Mint Julep Experiences will help you learn the art, history and craftsmanship of America’s Native Spirit as you travel through Bourbon Country for guided distillery tours and tastings! We’ll also make a stop for a local lunch along the way.

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You’ll work with one of our Kentucky Bourbon Trail® experts to customize your day based on your group’s size, interests and other requests. We’ve tailored tours for all occasions — from birthday celebrations and corporate luncheons to bachelor parties.

Mint Julep Experiences plans the entire adventure, start to finish, so you can relax and leave the rest to us. Offering premium bourbon trail bus transportation, we enrich the experience with knowledgeable drivers, enthusiastic guides and clean and comfortable vehicles.

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Best of Bourbon Country

From name brands to small batch craft, bourbon distilleries are making a splash throughout the Commonwealth! More than 1 million visitors travel to Kentucky each year for the ultimate bourbon experience, and many choose Mint Julep Experiences for all their Kentucky bourbon tour needs.

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Tour Bourbon Country’s dozens of bourbon distilleries big and small, old and new, traditional and innovative. Mint Julep Experiences’ Bourbon Trail Tours give you an immersive experience with Kentucky’s best bourbon distilleries along the Kentucky Bourbon Trail® and beyond. The Kentucky Bourbon Trail® began in 1999 and has since entertained more than 2.5 million guests, expanding year after year.

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Explore Kentucky

14 Best Distilleries To Visit Along Kentucky's Bourbon Trail

There may not be another drink more mysterious than bourbon. It's known for caramel, vanilla, and oak notes, yet each bottle is unique, carrying different tastes, aromas, and surprising finishes. The amber-colored whiskey has been around since the 1700s when settlers in Kentucky (mainly Scottish, Irish, and German) realized they had the perfect soil for growing grains that would eventually be distilled as bourbon, according to History.com . Today, Kentucky still reigns as the number one producer of bourbon, claiming 95% of all bourbon distilleries. 

It seems Kentucky was destined for the job. It isn't just the soil that makes the land perfect. Fred Minnick, author of "Whiskey Women" and "Bourbon Curious: A Simple Tasting Guide for the Savvy Drinker" tells History.com  that the water plays a big factor because of how the natural limestone works to filter out minerals. That's right — even the water is perfect. All of that is to say if you love bourbon, Kentucky's Bourbon Trail is the place to be. With 37 distilleries, there is truly nowhere else on earth where you will find more bourbon within a 250-mile radius. Feel free to visit them all, but if you find it tough to choose, read on as we look at the best distilleries to visit along Kentucky's Bourbon Trail. Pack your bags and get started.

Evan Williams

According to Explore Kentucky History , Evan Williams is said to be the first commercial distillery in Kentucky. Evan Williams himself came to Louisville, Kentucky from Wales in 1780. You'll find a historical marker (#2445) in his honor in Louisville. Just three years later, after realizing he'd settled in a land where the soil and water were perfect for distilling bourbon, he opened a distillery. 

The brand's website  explains that its bourbon, named after Evan Williams himself, is aged even longer than required by law, creating a Kentucky Straight Bourbon with bold character. As the first distillery in Kentucky, placed along the banks of the Ohio River way back in 1783, Evan Williams is proud to still be delivering one of the smoothest bourbons for novices and connoisseurs alike to enjoy. Today, Evan Williams bourbon is distilled at Heaven Hill Distillery, and you can enjoy the Evan Williams experience in downtown Louisville where they offer tours, tastings, and a fun speakeasy area as well (via Bourbon Trail Tours ).

Angel's Envy

If anything, you've got to visit Angel's Envy to hear the story of such a fantastic name. During the aging process of bourbon, some alcohol evaporates. It's said that the missing bourbon is the "angel's share," per Vine Pair , hence what's left is the angel's envy. You'll notice that Angel's Envy has a beautifully shaped bottle that is inspired by Angel's wings. Angel's Envy distillery is one of the youngest on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail, as it began in only 2011. Today, you'll find the distillery in downtown Louisville, as the first full-production distillery to open its doors in that city. 

If you are looking for one of the smoothest bourbons in the world , you'll be in the right place at Angel's Envy. The distillery is known for bending rules in a good way, such as using second-barrel finishing techniques, which are usually only seen in the making of Scotch. Gentleman Ranter's explains that Angel's ages its bourbon in charred American oak barrels for up to six years and in the last few months it is moved to port wine casks, creating a drink that is ridiculously smooth and easy to sip.

According to Michter's , George Washington bought bottles of their bourbon straight from the distillery back during the Revolutionary War to keep his men warm through the long winter at Valley Forge. If President Washington visited, you probably should as well. Michter's began its journey in Pennsylvania back in 1753. It was founded by a Swiss Mennonite farmer named John Shenk.

It wasn't until the 1990s that Michter's found its home in Kentucky, after a long history of dealing with issues such as prohibition, bankruptcy, and the near disappearance of the Michter name. This delightful and sometimes hard-to-find bourbon owes its rareness to barrels that are toasted before they are charred, which helps to expose deeper layers of the interior of the barrels, offering greater levels of flavor to the bourbon, per Cocktails and Bars . You can visit Michter's distillery along the Bourbon Trail in Louisville, right across from the Louisville Slugger Museum.

Old Forester

In case you haven't noticed, most bourbon is steeped in history and heritage, and that's one of the reasons bourbon drinkers love it. Old Forester doesn't disappoint in this area. The founder, George Garvin Brown of Munfordville, Kentucky, created the first bottle of Forester in 1870, according to the brand's website . After purchasing the Mattingly Distillery, George created the first double-barreled bourbon, called "Very Old Fine Whisky," in 1910. A fire shut down production, so the whisky was all dumped, and although it was ready to bottle, he decided to put it all into second barrels. The stories just get better. In the 1940s, during World War II, the Old Forester distillery converted the entire production line so they could produce industrial-grade alcohol. This was done to help out the troops and the entire war effort. You just have to love bourbon stories. 

A fun tidbit about Old Forester is that it is the only bourbon that has remained in the same company before, during, and after prohibition. Tour Old Forester and hear all the great stories about George Garvin Brown on Whiskey Row in Louisville, Kentucky.

Everything you need to know about Bulleit bourbon is summed up by the distillers on its website , which reads "Our aging philosophy is simple: We wait until our bourbon is ready." Simple, yet essential words that describe a bourbon known for its extra spice and smoothness. Bulleit's claim to fame is their higher use of rye in the mash.

As with many bourbons, the story starts out a bit sad but has a happy ending. The Rum Howler Blog writes that Augustus Bulleit, the creator of Bulleit bourbon back in 1830, disappeared while transporting the bourbon across the country, and Bulleit bourbon disappeared as well for over 100 years. Thankfully, generations later, Thomas E. Bulleit, Jr. said enough is enough and brought Bulleit bourbon back to life. According to Bourbonr , it's not a whiskey that is difficult to run across. You'll see it in most bars and liquor stores; however, as a common shelf bourbon, it gives novices and connoisseurs a unique taste, unlike some of the others on the shelf. Check out Bulleit bourbon at the Bulleit Distilling Co. in Shelbyville, Kentucky.

Ready for a little romance? Four Roses has you covered. It starts with a tempting beauty and ends with a "yes" to a proposal. According to Four Roses Bourbon , Paul Jones, Jr. fell in love with a Southern belle and had to have her. In the most romantic gesture ever, he wrote a letter to her, asking for her hand in marriage. To top his amorous proposal, she replied by writing that she would wear a rose corsage to the grand ball they would both be attending if her answer were "yes." And, you guessed it — she wore four roses. Jones was certainly relieved to not be humiliated with a "no" and we are all relieved he continued to make fine bourbon, aptly naming it Four Roses.

Four Roses is known for the fact that it has 10 different bourbon recipes, and each has its own notes. This is done by creating different yeast strains and separate mash bills. The distillery is as gorgeous as the romantic rose label and can be toured along the Kentucky Bourbon trail in Lawrenceburg, Kentucky.

Woodford Reserve

If you drink bourbon, you've heard of Woodford Reserve. It's one of the most popular bourbons out there. And although the price point is a decent one at around $50 a bottle, Woodford Reserve is considered a premium bourbon. 

According to The Spirits Educator , the story of Woodford Reserve begins in the cute little Kentucky town of Versailles. There, a man named Elijah Pepper began to distill corn into whiskey in 1797. His son would then take over in 1835 and hire a Scottish scientist to help with the distilling process. That scientist, Dr. James C. Crow, is credited with inventing the sour mash that is still used in bourbon fermenting today. After a few more changes in hand, the distillery would eventually end up with Brown-Forman in 1994 and the bourbon was named Woodford after the county in which it resides.

The distillery, which is along the Kentucky Bourbon Trail, is considered one of the most beautiful ones to see. Woodford Reserve's website  explains that they offer several different tour options and you should aim to book them a few months in advance because they sell out.

The history of Jim Beam began with the American dream and some corn. The Boehm family hailed from Germany and arrived in America in 1740 when the country was still 13 colonies. Fast forward 48 years and the family not only moved to Kentucky to take advantage of government incentives that were offered for farming corn, but they also Americanized their name as many immigrants did back then, to Beam (via JimBeam.com ). 

Whiskey, namely rye whiskey, was already popular by then, but Jacob Beam made the decision to start using up excess corn and turned it into a mash for distilling. Their bourbon whiskey was born and folks all over loved Jim Beam. He sold his first barrel in 1795, and the story continues today. By the way, Kentucky already had 2,000 distilleries by the early 1800s, so selling a barrel of a new one you've made was no easy task.

Bourbon law says you must age the whiskey at least two years for it to be considered bourbon. However, Jim Beam is known for its four-year aging process to bring bourbon fans a satisfyingly smooth spirit. Seeing the Jim Beam distillery is seeing a business that began two centuries ago. You'll find them in Clermont, Kentucky where they offer tours and Kentucky hospitality.

Maker's Mark

Maker's Mark begins with Bill Samuels, Sr., who is quoted as saying he wanted a bourbon "that won't blow my ears off," per the brand's website . And that's what happened, but let's back it up a little first. Bill's family already had a bourbon recipe that was 170 years old. He decided to experiment with it, determined to create a bourbon that wouldn't blow his ears off and he, well ... set the drapes on fire, along with the ancient family recipe, while doing so. Thankfully, Bill had spunk and he continued on. He wisely used bread making to experiment with grains and soon he'd find the secret that would make Maker's Mark stand out amongst the bourbon crowd — red winter wheat instead of rye. Brilliant.

It's the red winter wheat that gives Maker's its sweet notes, making it an excellent bourbon in cocktails like the Old Fashioned , and also perfect for sipping neat so you can enjoy Maker's Mark's delicately sweet notes.

We can't end without discussing the dripping red wax that seals the bottle. It's purely decorative and was designed by one of the first women in the bourbon industry, Margie Samuels, whose name resides in the Kentucky Bourbon Hall of Fame. The red wax makes Maker's Mark stand out on the shelves and consumers can't help but be curious. Visit Maker's Mark in Loretto, Kentucky along the Bourbon Trail. 

Heaven Hill

Prohibition ended and the Shapira family got busy making bourbon. Heaven Hill Brands writes that the family was taking quite a risk. The Great Depression was at its peak, the family had no whiskey at the time, and no brand of their own. Today, something people often don't realize about Heaven Hill is that it's the largest, independent, family-owned distillery in the world today, making 19 different bourbons and whiskeys, including Evan Williams and Elijah Craig. The distillery makes a whopping 1,300 barrels a day. Hard work and a dream pay off.

Heaven Hill Distillery explains that the business began in Bardstown, Kentucky by a gentleman named William Heavenhill. The name was misspelled one time as "Heaven Hill" while filling out official paperwork as the business was being formed. It would have cost $10 to fix it, so the separated words of the name remained.

One of the Shapira brothers, Max, was once quoted as saying, "When you're in the business of making products that you can't sell for four years or longer, it takes patience and perseverance" (via Heaven Hill Distillery ). It certainly does. Eventually, the Jim Beam family entered the picture and helped make Heaven Hill the world-renowned distillery it is today. You can visit this amazing place in downtown Louisville, Kentucky.

Willet Distillery is one of the last truly family-owned distilleries in Kentucky. They are very proud of it and believe so highly in their family-owned business that they regularly turn down investors. At one point, the distillery closed because of the financial pressures that came in the 1980s when clear spirits, such as vodka, were king. Fast forward to 1984, when the Kulsveen couple purchased the property from the Willets and brought the Willet Distillery back to life. From there, Willet would become seriously premium. It's one of the most expensive bourbons in the world , with some bottles selling for $4,000.

Willet is known for its willingness to share things, such as its mash bill, with the public. Most distilleries keep those numbers a secret. Because of the past history of Willet, especially having to close the doors at one time, Drew Kulsveen was quoted in Whisky Magazine as saying that customer tastes dictate their business. If people have a change of taste, we have to protect ourselves." That's why they are now seeking the distilling of other spirits as well. Visit the Willet Distillery, rich in history, in Bardstown, Kentucky.

Wild Turkey

It took three different stories to merge and bring us the beloved American bourbon called Wild Turkey, according to The Whiskey Jug . It includes the Ripy family who began a distillery called Old Moore in 1850. Then the story continues with a change in name to Austin Nichols, since the Ripys merged with that distillery, and finally, in 1940 we see the first bottle that's named Wild Turkey, which Austin Nichols came up with while hunting turkeys. By the way, in 2016, Matthew McConaughey became the creative director for the distillery.

Wild Turkey prides itself in using only non-GMO corn in their mash bill (which is kept quite secretive). Bourbon Obsessed points out that Wild Turkey is a classic bourbon, delivering those bourbon notes you'd expect while also hitting your nose and palate with a surprising spiciness.

The distillery is located in Lawrenceburg, Kentucky, and offers plenty of tours for Kentucky Bourbon Trail visitors. Wild Turkey writes that its new visitors' site is something to see, and it has even received several awards.

Green River

Along the bourbon trail, you'll find craft distilleries, which are smaller distilleries that are motivated by innovation and creativity, obeying the laws of bourbon production, of course, but also looking for new ways to make it even better. When it comes to innovation today, Green River Distillery is at the forefront. 

Green River believes in doing things correctly because bourbon is bourbon. Master distiller at Green River Distillery, Jacob Call explains that making good bourbon doesn't require a magic bullet. There are certain processes that have to be followed and the right ingredients have to be used. On the other hand, the distillery also believes in shaking up the bourbon world by trying new things, such as aging bourbon in unique barrels. Green River is currently experimenting with wine and rum barrels. 

If that isn't enticing enough, all of Green River Distillery's corn is locally sourced, often within just a few miles of the distillery. On top of that, they give 1% of their sales to environmental causes. It's not just a distillery in Kentucky. It's a part of Kentucky and cares about the environment. Visit this innovative craft distillery along the Kentucky Bourbon Trail in Owensboro, Kentucky.

Castle and Key

The distillery, Old Taylor, which once housed the infamous bourbon Colonel G.H. Taylor, was left abandoned until Castle and Key purchased the property and restored it into something beautiful, according to Sipping History . It was Will Arvin, in 2012, who visited the grounds of the old distillery and found roofs caving in, weeds growing wild, and, all in all, a historical place that was falling apart. He fell in love and the site for Castle and Key was born. Castle and Key is another new craft distillery, but the building and grounds that house it are full of rich history. Thanks to the restoration, tours are now happening again, and visitors hear not only the new Castle and Key story but the stories of Old Taylor as well. 

Castle and Key writes that quality is of the utmost importance to the distillery. After all, it's practically on hallowed ground. The distillery make this promise clear by encouraging customers to let them know how they feel about the bourbon and their experiences. Although this craft distillery is along the bourbon trail, Castle and Key offers more than bourbon. It also distills gin, vodka, and rye whiskey. There's something for everyone. Visit Castle and Key in Frankfort, Kentucky. 

We provide a customized private tour day of bourbon distilleries at affordable rates.

See more distilleries.  Learn more with us.

Why Our Private Tour Day Is Different

Work Directly With The Owner:

When you call, text or email, you will be dealing directly with the owner who has 18+ years of experience in the bourbon industry working for one of the largest whiskey distillers in the world, not someone who works doing inside sales and hasn’t made it to all of the distilleries or maybe none of them.  

Our Tour Guides :

Our tour guides are knowledgeable bourbon industry professionals who have worked in a variety of segments including distilleries, liquor stores, bars, restaurants, other tour companies or just plain bourbon geeks.  They can answer your bourbon questions.

Visit Distilleries With Your Customized Agenda:  

Start when you want.  Go where you want.  Go with people you want to be with.  Not a large, public bus tour.  No waiting around for others. 

Buy 'Hard t o Find' Bourbon Bottles:

We know where to shop and can take you there .  

Visit The Distilleries

Bardstown Area

Heaven Hill

Limestone Branch

Preservation

Bardstown Bourbon Co.

Boundary Oak Distillery

Maker's Mark

Louisville Area

Jefferson's Reserve 

Angel's Envy

Michter's

Rabbit Hole

Old Forester

Evan Williams

Jeptha Creed

Buffalo Trace

Woodford Reserve

Wild Turkey

Glenns Creek (Old Crow)

Castle & Key (Old Taylor)

Hard to Find Bourbons

Other Experiences

Chur chill Downs, Horse Farms, Wineries and Breweries - If you want to customize your tour day with a stop at either, let us know in advance and we can make the adjustments needed in your agenda. 

Bachelor/Bachelorette Party Weekends - We can customize any of our tour days to accommodate your group even on short notice.  

Reviews and Tour Options

Each tour can be customized, tripadvisor reviews: all direct "quotes", read for yourself.

Our private tour with KBIT was perfection!  

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Tour A: Frankfort Area Distilleries

Take your pick of three:  Buffalo Trace, Woodford Reserve, Four Roses, Bulleit, Wild Turkey, Castle & Key, Whiskey Thief, or Glenn's Creek.  

Take your pick of three:  Maker's Mark, Heaven Hill, Willett, Jim Beam, Limestone Branch, Lux Row, Preservation, Bardstown Bourbon Co., Boundary Oak Distillery, Four Roses (Cox's Creek) or Log Still.

Louisville Area Distilleries 

Tour b: bardstown area distilleries.

Take your pick of three: Jefferson's Reserve, Stitzel-Weller, Angel's Envy, Rabbit Hole, Peerless, Michter's, Old Forester or Evan Williams.  

Tour D: 'Best of' Distilleries

Visit three between Frankfort, Louisville or Bardstown areas.  Add $50 to the total cost of the trip for additional miles driven.

Part of Our Fleet

Over 1,500 tour groups, 7,000+ people since 2016.

Private suv/van transportation at affordable rates      - pricing i s for three distillery stops with a louisville pickup.      - a 4th stop at a liquor store or distillery can be added for $50.      - distillery tickets cost is not included in 'tour day' price below.      - our 'concierge ticket service' is used by most customers.        - taxes & fees are 14. 5 % .       - minimum gratuity of 18%.      - 'transportation upgrade options' under the 'fine print' below.      - lexington pickup is avail able for $100  for  just tour a.      - kentucky derby weekend rates are higher.      - add 10 % per person for the 'premium package'., information or tour request:.

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THE 'FINE PRINT' FOR ALL KENTUCKY BOURBON INSIDER DISTILLERY TOURS Included in 'Tour Day' Price:   We will work with you to customize an agenda for the day and will purchase 'public tour' tickets in advance once the 50% deposit is paid as part of our 'Concierge Ticket Service'.  A bourbon tour guide and designated driver will pick-up and drop-off at Louisville hotels or residences.  Not Included in 'Tour Day' Price:   Tour tickets and/or tasting fees charged by each distillery are not included.  The average distillery ticket is between $20 to $25 and includes a tasting.  Some distilleries offer free or discounted tours and tasting to veterans, military and law enforcement with proper ID.  We do not include lunch or gratuities for our bourbon tour guides in our listed price.  Taxes and fees of 14.5% will be listed on the deposit request and final invoice.  The 18% minimum gratuity will automatically be added to your 50% deposit request and final invoice.

Deposit & Full Payment:   One half of our bourbon tour fee and the estimated distillery ticket costs is due the day the tour is booked with the remaining amount due based on the actual cost of distillery tickets at the end of the tour day.  All major credit cards are accepted via the Square online payment system.  If the final invoice is not paid after five business days, a $100 late payment fee will be applied.

Cancellation & Changes Policy:   If you cancel at least 14 day(s) in advance of the tour date, there is a $100 service fee for each tour day booked with us and your remaining deposit will be refunded unless tickets for Glenn's Creek are purchased as these are not refundable.  If you reschedule at least 14 day(s) in advance of the tour date, there is no service fee and your remaining deposit will be applied to your new date unless tickets for Glenn's Creek are purchased as these are not refundable.  If you cancel under 14 day(s) in advance of the scheduled departure, your deposit will be forfeited. 

Transportation Upgrade Options:   This is a 'private tour' transportation experience.  No outside guests will be in your vehicle.  Once our 'Fleet Vehicles' are booked, we will use other rental vehicles on busy days.  For two, three or four people, a four door sedan or a 'Standard Class SUV' (Ford Edge or similar) will typically be used.  For five or six people, a 'Standard Elite Class SUV' (Nissan Pathfinder or similar) or MiniVan (Dodge Caravan or similar) with a 3rd row will typically be used.  Upgrade to a 'Fullsize Class SUV' (Tahoe or similar) for $175 or a 'Premium Class SUV' (Suburban, Ford Expedition or similar) for $225 or a passenger van (Mercedes Benz Sprinter, Ford Transit, Chevy Express or similar) for $275 per day.  For seven to eleven people, a passenger van (Mercedes Benz Sprinter, Ford Transit, Chevy Express or similar) will be used.

Distillery Tours:   Unless discussed and agreed to at the time of booking, all distillery tours will be booked for the standard 'public tour' offering at each distillery.  Some specialty tours offered by distilleries will sell out weeks or months in advance.   

Other Topics:   Minimum drinking age is 21 years and proper identification is checked at most all of the distilleries regardless of age.  The distilleries ask that you drink responsibly while visiting their facilities and on their tours.  For customer review details, please check Trip Advisor.  If your tour day runs longer than nine hours, your group will be charged $50 per hour thereafter. 

Tour Day Per Person, Per Day, Per Vehicle Rates:

Mercedes Benz or Ford Passenger Van (white)

11 People:    $13 9 pp (max 11 people per van)

10 People:    $14 9 per person

9 People:      $15 9 per person

8 People:      $16 9 per person

7 People:      $179 per person

Land Rover or Similar SUV, Minivan w/ 3rd Row

6 People:      $179 per person

5 People:      $189 per person

4 People:      $199 per person

Range Rover or Similar Sedan

3 People:      $239 per person

2 People:      $279 pp (Sun/Mon/Tue/Wed/Thur)

2 People:      $299 pp (Fridays & Saturdays)

1 Person:      $1,000 (Saturdays & Sundays)

Tours & Tastings

Experience the truest expression of Woodford Reserve at our historic distillery in Versailles, KY.

Woodford Reserve's Path to Flavor Tour

Join us for a guided tour of our Distillery and historic location. Our most popular experience, you’ll explore all five sources of flavor from grain to glass. Finishing with a tasting of our award winning craft bourbons and whiskies you'll truly experience the Woodford Reserve difference. What to expect: - 70 minute tour and tasting, please dress for the weather as a portion is outdoors - Guests must be +21 to enter tasting portion of experience - Minors must have a ticket and be accompanied by a parent or guardian at all times - We do not offer a waitlist or cancellation list

Spectacle for the Senses Tasting

Our most interactive tasting! Your experience begins with a walk through history before you enter the Dryer House where you will taste 5 award winning whiskies expertly paired with lite bites. Designed by our Master Distiller it is sure to be a true spectacle for your senses! What to expect: - 45 min guided tasting with food pairing - Must be +21 years of age - We do not offer a waitlist or cancellation list

VIP Master Distiller Tour Experience

For the ultimate Woodford Reserve fan! Join Master Distiller Emeritus Chris Morris and/or Master Distiller Elizabeth McCall on a two-hour behind-the-scenes tour of the Distillery, Lab, Warehouse, and ending a Family of Brands tasting. Each ticket includes a limited edition bottle. This experience is limited to 8 guests and is only offered as our distiller's schedules permit. No waitlist option available

Innovation Inspired Tour and Tasting

Woodford Reserve Distillery is the home of innovation, where we push the creative bounds of our award-winning bourbons and whiskies. This experience includes a full distillery tour highlighting our five sources of flavor and finishes with an elevated tasting of a few of our most highly sought after whiskies. Each guest will receive a souvenir glass and have the opportunity to purchase an allocated whiskey at the conclusion of the experience. What to Expect: - 70 minute tour and tasting, please dress for the weather as a portion is outdoors - Guests must be +21 to enter tasting portion of experience - Minors must have a ticket and be accompanied by a parent or guardian at all times - We do not offer a waitlist or cancellation list

Mixology Experience

Enjoy a journey through the rich history of some of our favorite classic cocktails. Hosted in our Cocktail Lounge, this exclusive, limited experience will allow guests to learn and make various classics like the Old Fashioned with our Woodford Reserve family of whiskies while learning the origins of the cocktails and how it is intrinsically tied to the Woodford Reserve Distillery. Guests will also receive a souvenir rocks glass, recipes for all of our signature Woodford Reserve cocktails and bourbon balls. What to Expect: - 45 minute seated experience - Must be +21 to participate - We do not offer a waitlist or cancellation list. Note: This experience takes place in our Cocktail Lounge. Please follow signage onsite when you arrive.

From the Reserve: A Curated Cocktail Experience

In our most exclusive cocktail experience, you will explore crafting luxury cocktails with rare whiskies from our curated archival collection. A detailed demonstration of our favorite classic cocktails with an innovative twist draws on inspiration from some of Woodford Reserve's most rare whiskies from years past. Guests will also receive a souvenir Double Old Fashioned tumbler. What to expect: - 45 minute cocktail demonstration and tasting - Guests must be 21+ to participate - We do not offer a waitlist or cancellation list

Derby 150 Bottle Signing Event

It’s Derby season! Join us at the distillery to meet Master Distiller Elizabeth McCall & Master Distiller Emeritus Chris Morris and this year’s Derby bottle artist Wylie Caudill. Only 150 tickets are available for this annual event. Your ticket includes one Derby bottle, a seasonal cocktail, light bites and music. Additionally, the gift shop will remain open allowing you to shop for specialty Derby items and Woodford Reserve offerings! What to expect: - 45 minutes - Guests must be 21+ to participate - We do not offer a waitlist or cancellation list

Make a Mint Julep - Cocktail Class

Learn to make the official cocktail of the KY Derby with our team of trained mixologists. You’ll try your hand at muddling and mixing in this interactive experience featuring the classic Mint Julep along with a modern spin - the Chocolate Mint Julep. Class includes cocktail cards, the official KY Derby highball glass, bourbon balls and, of course, your Mint Juleps! What to expect: - 45 minute cocktail demonstration and tasting - Guests must be 21+ to participate - We do not offer a waitlist or cancellation list

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* For ticket refunds, we ask for a 24 hour notice before experience start time. For groups of 10 or more we need 14 day notice before experience start time for a refund.

WHERE ARE YOU SHIPPING?

At this time we are only shipping spirits to Kentucky, Nebraska, New Hampshire, North Dakota and Washington D.C.

Garden & Gun Partners With Kentucky Distilleries To Offer A Week Of Bourbon Experiences

Starting today (April 23rd, 2024), a week-long tourism experience will be held in Kentucky named Distilled. In partnership with Garden & Gun Magazine , distillers and tourism bureaus in Kentucky to offer a week of bourbon, music, food, and culture. 

Held in Kentucky's Bourbon County, Distilled offers a host of experiences. Below are a few, selected experiences that will cater to the bourbon lovers among you. 

Garden & Gun Distilled Launch Party 

The Stitzel-Weller Distillery will kick off the week with a cocktail party held in the stunning gardens. Hosted by Garden & Gun editor-in-chief, David DiBenedetto, the party will include bourbon from Blade and Bow, whiskey cocktails, and live music from Brother Smith and The Local Honeys. 

There will also be food stations including Creole and Cajun cuisine from Lawrence Weeks, North of Bourbon, and Ensō. 

Various stalls will host local businesses selling everything from bath products to baked goods. 

Tickets cost $85 and can be purchased on the Garden & Gun website . 

Rise From The Ruins 

The Castle & Key Distillery is an iconic site, integral to bourbon history. 

On April 25th, the distillery will host an exclusive tour of the distillery hosted by Castle & Key co-founder Will Arvin and landscape designer Jon Carloftis. Guests will see the historic Warehouse B – the longest bourbon rickhouse in the world. 

This will be followed by cocktails in The Sunken Garden, which were, originally, lovingly designed by Colonel E.H. Taylor Jr. to reflect his travels in Europe. 

Then on to the Old Bottling Ruins for dinner. This experience showcases how Castle & Key stood abandoned for years before being resurrected. The stark contrast shows just how far the distillery has come, whilst also paying tribute to its roots. 

The dinner menu has been curated by Cooper Vaughan of The Apiary in Lexington. Featuring herbs from the gin garden and curated whiskey cocktail pairings, this is the ultimate bourbon dining experience.

Music will be provided by Hancock & Shouse. 

Tickets cost $350. Get yours now via Garden & Gun . 

Women of Whiskey 

The Yew Dell Botanical Gardens will play host to a tribute to women in whiskey. 

On April 25th Garden & Gun will bring together women of Kentucky to provide a curated menu of food, cocktails, and bourbon. 

Ouita Michel (owner of Honeywood restaurant) Sam Fore (owner of Tuk Tuk Snack Shop) and Sara Bradley (owner of freight house) will provide a range of cuisines and flavors for the guests. 

Also in attendance will be leading female voices in Kentucky's bourbon industry including sisters Carrie Van Winkle Grenner and Louise Van Winkle Breen, owners of Pappy & Company. 

Marianne Eaves (Forbidden Bourbon), Jackie Zykan (HIdden Barn Whiskey), and Shaylyn Gammon (Blue Run Spirits) will use their expertise to offer bourbon pairings for the perfect refreshment in the Kentucky sun. 

Tickets for this afternoon of food, bourbon, and celebration of women in the industry cost $200. Get yours now . 

About Garden & Gun Magazine

“Garden & Gun” magazine, founded in 2007 in Charleston, South Carolina, artfully combines Southern culture with lifestyle elements. 

Named whimsically to reflect a ‘southern lifestyle’ rather than literal content, it covers a rich mix of topics from gardening, Southern cuisine, and travel to music and literature. 

Find out about all of the events on offer at Distilled here . 

Read the full article at Garden & Gun Partners With Kentucky Distilleries To Offer A Week Of Bourbon Experiences

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