kentucky whiskey tour map

Your guide for mastering the Bourbon Trail,™ with real-world advice and suggested itineraries from your favorite Bourbon writers, local experts and
 industry icons.

Know Before You Go

For many Bourbon lovers, a visit to the Trail™ is the culmination of a lifelong dream. We want you to make the most of every moment.

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37 ‘voices from the trail’ entries.

Fred Minnick: My Trail Experience

Regional Mixologists Compete for the Best Mint Julep Recipe

Bourbon comes to copper & kings, jeptha creed introduces ‘big game day’ bloody mary.

46 Distilleries Along the Kentucky Bourbon Trail

Exploring the Kentucky Bourbon Trail is one of the best ways to learn about bourbon, Kentucky history, and take scenic drives in bluegrass country, all in one trip.

No wonder it has attracted 2.5 million visitors from all over the country in the last five years.

In this article, I’ll cover pretty much everything you need to know about the Kentucky Bourbon Trail, including which distilleries to visit, when to go and where to stay.

What is the Kentucky Bourbon Trail?

The Kentucky Distillers’ Association (KDA) established the Kentucky Bourbon Trail in 1999 as a road-trip style experience with 10 major distilleries in the Louisville and Lexington areas.

Today, the Kentucky Bourbon Trail is a collection of 18 major bourbon whiskey distilleries (Heritage Distilleries) and 23 smaller and newer microdistilleries (Craft Distilleries) that will give you the ultimate experience of learning all about Kentucky bourbon: its history, technology, craftsmanship, and artistry.

Of course, all the bourbon tasting sessions are a great perk, too.

Each of the bourbon distilleries offers a completely different experience and I highly recommend you visit them all (if you have the time, of course).

What is Kentucky Bourbon?

Before you explore the Kentucky Bourbon Trail, here’s a brief explainer of some of the products you’ll encounter.

Whiskey is a broad term for an alcoholic beverage made from a fermented grain mash that is distilled and aged in oak barrels.

For a whiskey to be called bourbon , it must meet the following requirements:

• Made in the USA
• Mash must be at least 51% corn
• Mash must be distilled at 160 proof or less
• Aged in new charred oak barrels at 125 proof or less
• No additional coloring or flavoring in the mash
• Bottled at a minimum of 80 proof

Major Distilleries on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail

In general, distillery tours last approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour. You’ll get to learn some history and facts about Kentucky bourbon, view a few or all steps of bourbon production, and taste a few of their product offerings.

0. Kentucky Bourbon Trail® Welcome Center

The Frazier History Museum houses several educational exhibits and collections that tell of Kentucky’s history and its place in national and even international history.

Perhaps this is why this was made the official starting point of the Kentucky Bourbon Trail in 2018 even though it’s not a distillery.

At the welcome center, you can talk to the friendly concierges who’ll have information on the trail’s distilleries and all the best places to experience the best of Kentucky cuisine and nightlife.

You can also buy your Kentucky Bourbon Trail Passport and Field Guide here. This contains information about all the distilleries on the trail, maps, cocktail recipes, trip planning resources, and many more.

Get a stamp from every distillery that you tour, complete the stamps on the passport, and get special gifts.

Essential Information

• Location: 829 W Main St., Louisville, KY
• Phone: 502-753-1699
• Hours: Mon–Sat 10am–5pm; Sun 12am–5pm

1. Michter’s Fort Nelson Distillery

A short walk down the block from Ground Zero of the Kentucky Bourbon Trail is Michter’s Fort Nelson Distillery.

Learn about their unique process, from high-quality ingredients to chill filtering their products.

• Location: 801 W Main St., Louisville, KY
• Phone : 502-389-4290
• Must-try Products: Kentucky Straight Bourbon, Sour Mash, 10-Year Kentucky Straight Bourbon
• Tours : Discovery Tour ($20 per head); Founders Tour ($50 per head); Legacy Tour ($100 per head)
• Hours : Wed–Sat 11am – 5pm; Sun 1pm–5pm; Mon–Tue closed

2. Evan Williams Bourbon Experience

Evan Williams was the first distillery on Whiskey Row, opening way back in 1783 on the banks of the Ohio River.

Their place feels like a museum that takes you on a fascinating journey throughout time, where you’ll learn all about this area of the state and all about the history of bourbon in this Kentucky distillery.

• Location : 528 W Main St., Louisville, KY
• Phone : 502-272-2623
• Must-try Products: Kentucky Straight Bourbon, Honey Bourbon, Single Barrel Bourbon
• Tours: Traditional Tour and Tasting ($18 per head); Speakeasy Tasting Experience ($25 per head); The Ideal Bartender Experience ($35 per head)
• Hours: Tue–Thu 11am – 5pm; Fri–Sat 10am–5pm; Sun, 1pm–5pm

3. Old Forester Distilling Co.

Old Forester is the only bourbon continuously distilled by the founders before, during, and after Prohibition, with their first bourbon produced way back in 1870.

They take great pride in their process, and you get to witness all the stages when you take their tour.

• Location: 119 W Main St., Louisville, KY
• Phone: 502-779-2222
• Must-try Products: Kentucky Straight Bourbon, 1920 Prohibition Style, 2004 Birthday Bourbon Tours: Old Forester Tour ($32 per head); Nothing Better In The Market ($70 per head)
• Hours: Tue–Sat 10am–5pm; Sun–Mon closed

4. Angel’s Envy Distillery

Angel’s Envy specializes in finished bourbon and rye; their bourbon is finished in port wine barrels, and their rye is finished in rum casks.

Finished bourbon is a bit controversial (see the definition of bourbon above), but it doesn’t make Angel’s Envy products less exquisite.

• Location : 500 E Main St., Louisville, KY
• Must-try Products: Port Finished Bourbon, Rum Finished Rye, Finished Cask Strength Tours: Signature Tour ($25 per head); Bottle Your Own Tour (temporarily unavailable; $99 per head)
• Hours: Mon, Wed: 10am–5pm; Tue 12pm–5pm; Thu 10am–7pm; Fri–Sat: 10am–8pm; Sun: 12:30pm–5:30pm

5. Rabbit Hole Distillery

Rabbit Hole Distillery is one of the most recent additions to the Kentucky Bourbon Trail; their ultra-modern facility in Nulu (New Louisville) opened in August 2018.

The husband and wife team who founded this distillery aims to innovate and elevate the art of bourbon.

• Location : 711 E Jefferson St., Louisville, KY
• Phone: 502-561-2000
• Must-try Products: Cavehill (4-Grain Bourbon), Heigold (High Rye Bourbon), Founder’s Collection: Boxergrail (Cask Strength Rye Whiskey)
• Tours: Distillery Tour ($25 per head)

6. Stitzel–Weller Distillery

Stitzel–Weller Distillery has had a long history, even closing for 22 years before gaining new life in 2014.

Today, they are home to three brands of bourbon, all exceptional in their own unique way.

• Location: 3860 Fitzgerald Road, Louisville, KY
• Phone: 502-810-3800
• Must-try Products: Blade And Bow Bourbon, I.W. Harper 15-Year-Old Bourbon, Orphan Barrel Rhetoric (20- to 25-Year-Old Bourbon)
• Tours: The Stitzel-Weller Experience ($25 per head); Progressive Walking & Tasting Tour ($65 per head)
• Tastings: Chocolate Tasting Experience ($30 per head); A Taste of History ($30 per head); Cocktails Through The Ages ($60 per head)
• Hours: Wed–Sat, 10am–5:30pm; Sun, 12:30pm–5:30pm; Mon–Tue closed

7. Bulleit Distilling Company

Bulleit Frontier Whiskey was formerly produced in Stitzel–Weller Distillery until they moved into their new distillery in Shelbyville. They’ve won awards for their sustainable approach to producing great whiskey.

• Location : 3464 Benson Pike, Shelbyville, KY
• Phone: 502-647-5799
• Must-try Products: Kentucky Straight Bourbon, Rye Whiskey, Barrel Strength Bourbon
• Tours: The Frontier Whiskey Experience ($22 per head)
• Tastings: Unlocking the Senses ($18 per head)
• Hours: Wed–Sat 10am–5pm; Sun 11:30pm–5pm; Mon–Tue closed

8. Lexington Brewing and Distilling Co. (Makers of Town Branch Bourbon)

The only distillery and brewery on the trail, you can learn about both bourbon-making and beer-making when touring their facility, plus tastings of bourbon and beer at the end of the tour.

• Location : 401 Cross St., Lexington, KY
• Phone: 859-255-2337
• Must-try Products: Town Branch Kentucky Straight Bourbon, Town Branch Small Batch Straight Rye Whiskey, Town Brand Single Malt Whiskey
• Tours: Brewery & Distillery Tour and Tasting ($13 per head)
• Hours: Mon–Sat 9:30am–5pm; Sun 12pm–5pm; Mon–Tue closed

9. Woodford Reserve Distillery

Operating since 1812, the Woodford Reserve Distillery is the oldest on this list and the only distillery on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail designated as a National Historic Landmark.

• Location : 7785 McCracken Pike Versailles, KY
• Phone: 859-879-1812
• Must-try Products: Kentucky Straight Bourbon, Distiller’s Select, Master’s Collection
• Tours: (strictly reservations required) Path To Flavor Tour ($32 per head); Innovation Inspired Tour and Tasting ($125 per head); VIP Master Distiller Tour Experience ($500 per head)
• Tastings: (strictly reservations required) Spectacle For The Senses ($25 per head)
• Hours: Vary depending on the specific tour booked

10. Rare Breed Distilling (Makers of Wild Turkey Bourbon)

The Wild Turkey Bourbon is another popular distillery on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail and is one of the few Kentucky distilleries that produce some of the most popular bourbons in the world.

• Location : 1417 Versailles Rd, Lawrenceburg, KY
• Phone: 502-839-4544
• Must-try Products: Wild Turkey Bourbon, Rare Breed Bourbon, Wild Turkey American Honey Sting
• Tours: Temporarily unavailable due to renovations; check back for updated tour options
• Hours: Thu–Sat 9am–5pm; Sun 12pm–4pm; Mon–Wed closed

11. Four Roses Distillery

The distillery was built in 1910 and has always produced Four Roses Bourbon, although, for a number of decades in the 20th century, it was only sold in Europe and Japan.

Their expanded visitor center just opened at the end of 2021, with modern facilities tucked inside Spanish architecture.

• Location : 1224 Bonds Mill Rd, Lawrenceburg, KY
• Phone: 502-839-3436/502-839-2655
• Must-try Products: Kentucky Straight Bourbon, Small Batch, Single Barrel
• Tours: Distillery Legacy Tour ($22 per head)
• Tastings: Single Barrel Flight ($45 per head); A Taste of History ($16 per head)
• Hours: Wed–Sat 9am–4pm; Sun 12pm–4pm; Mon–Tue closed

12. Bardstown Bourbon Company

Bardstown Bourbon’s location is one of the most sophisticated ones on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail, with a focus on open spaces and clear glass.

They also have a kitchen and bar right on the premises where you can get a sumptuous meal before or after your tasting and/or tour.

• Location : 1500 Parkway Dr., Bardstown, KY
• Phone:  502-233-4769
• Must-try Products: Fusion Series Kentucky Straight Bourbon, Discovery Series Blended Whiskey
• Tours: From Distillate to Barrel Tour ($15 per head); Behind the Scenes with Head Distiller ($50 per head); Tour with The Master Distiller ($95 per head); Fill Your Own Bottle VIP Experience ($295 per head)
• Tastings: Bardstown Bourbon Company Tasting ($20 per head); Rickhouse Barrel Thieving ($30 per head); A Taste of Whiskey History ($250 per head)
• Hours: Wed–Sun 10am–5pm; Mon–Tue closed

13. Lux Row Distillers

Lux Row Distillers produces bourbon and whiskey for 5 different brands. Their distillery opened in 2018, though the parent company Luxco has been around since the 1950s.

Photo Credit: Anthony

• Location : 1 Lux Row, 3050 E John Rowan Blvd, Bardstown, KY
• Phone: 502-337-7420
• Must-try Products: Blood Oath Bourbon, Ezra Brooks Bourbon, Rebel Bourbon
• Tours: Warehouse & Whiskey ($10 per head); Lux Row Distillers Production Tour ($15 per head)
• Tastings: Lux Row Premium Tasting ($25 per head)
• Hours: Tue–Sat 10am–4pm; Sun–Mon closed

14. Heaven Hill Bourbon Experience

Founded in 1935 by the Shapira family, Heaven Hill Distillery is the country’s largest family-owned and operated distilled spirits supplier.

The visitor center in Bardstown is not where their current distillery is—they’re currently distilling in the historic Bernheim Distillery in Louisville. Sadly, their original distillery burned down in 1996.

• Location : 1311 Gilkey Run Rd., Bardstown, KY
• Phone: 502-272-2623
• Must-try Products: Heaven Hill Bottled-in-Bond Bourbon, Henry McKenna Single Barrel, Larceny Kentucky Straight Bourbon
• Tastings: Magic of the Mashbill ($18 per head); Whiskey Connoisseur Experience ($25 per head); You Do Bourbon ($40 per head)
• Hours: Mon–Thu 11am–5pm; Fri–Sat 10am–5pm; Sun 1pm–5pm

15. James B. Beam Distilling Company

Jim Beam is the top-selling bourbon in the world, and their distillery is known as the birthplace of bourbon and easily the most popular on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail.

Their newly renovated American Outpost replaced the American Stillhouse in 202 as a visitor and retail center.

• Location : 568 Happy Hollow Rd, Clermont, KY
• Phone: 502-543-9877
• Must-try Products: Jim Beam Kentucky Straight Bourbon, Jim Beam Black, Jim Beam Honey
• Tours: Beam Made Bourbon ($22 per head);
• Tasting: Meet the Family ($12 per head); Basil Hayden Culinary Tasting Experience ($50 per head)
• Hours: Wed–Sat 9am–5:30pm; Sun 12pm–4pm; Mon–Tue closed

16. Maker’s Mark

Another favorite on the trail, Maker’s Mark Distillery is perfect if you’re looking for both aesthetics and history.

Take your time strolling through the grounds and take lots of pictures. Buy yourself an undipped bottle in the gift shop and you’ll get to hand-dip it in red wax.

• Location: 3350 Burks Spring Rd, Loretto, KY
• Phone: 270-865-2099
• Must-try Products: Kentucky Straight Bourbon, Maker’s Mark 46, Maker’s Mark Private Selection
• Tours: The Maker’s Mark Tour ($22 per head)
• Hours: Mon–Sat 9:30am–5pm; Sun closed

17. Wilderness Trail Distillery

The Wilderness Trail Distillery joined the trail in 2019, making it the newest stop.

It’s also a chance to learn a different way to make bourbon; they use the sweet mash technique instead of the sour mash technique, bringing out a more subtle blend of flavors.

• Location : 4095 Lebanon Rd, Danville, KY
• Phone: 859-402-8707
• Must-try Products: Kentucky Straight Bourbon, 6-Year Bourbon, Wheated Bottled in Bond
• Tours: Distillery Tour ($15 per head)
• Hours: Tue–Sat 9am–5pm; Sun–Mon closed

18. Green River Distilling Company

The Green River Distillery is another historic distillery, producing bourbon for various brands since the end of Prohibition.

This stop is quite a distance away from the other distilleries on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail (it’s not even in the same time zone), but you won’t regret driving out here if you have the time.

• Location : 10 Distillery Road in Owensboro, KY
• Phone: 270-691-9001
• Must-try Products: Kentucky Straight Bourbon
• Tours: Distillery Tour and Tasting ($20 per head); Barrel Thieving Distillery Tour ($45 per head)
• Tastings: Sit and Sip ($12 per head)
• Hours: Mon–Sat 10am–3pm; Sun closed

Planning Your Kentucky Bourbon Trail Itinerary

There are many ways to plan your trip, but here’s our suggested itinerary based on the general area of the distilleries.

• Days One and Two: Louisville Area: Welcome Center + 6 Louisville distilleries
• Day Three: Lexington Area: Four Roses, Wild Turkey, Woodford, Town (+ Bulleit)
• Day Four: Bardstown Area: Bardstown, Lux Row, Heaven Hill, Jim Beam, Maker’s Mark
• Day Five: Outliers: Wilderness, Green River

When’s the best time to visit the Kentucky Bourbon Trail?

While Kentucky distilleries are open year-round, visiting during the fall or spring months is ideal. Bourbon is in full production, and the weather is just right.

I don’t recommend visiting during the summer months as the weather is hot and the temperatures inside can be unbearable.

Where should I stay on the Bourbon Trail?

I would recommend staying in the Louisville or Lexington areas so you can be as close as possible to more distilleries on the trail.

You’ll find that these places have the easiest access to the Kentucky Bourbon Trail and plenty of hotels, Airbnbs, and restaurants.

If I have to choose only one distillery on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail, which one should I choose?

It really depends on what you want out of this tour.

The James B. Beam Distilling Company is the birthplace of bourbon and the most popular one on this trail.

The Evan Williams Bourbon Experience does the best job explaining the history of the Kentucky Bourbon Trail and bourbon in general. It’s also been reported to be more family-friendly than most of the other distilleries on the trail.

The Discovery Tour at Old Forester provides the most detailed information about the entire bourbon distilling process from start to finish, from making the barrels to bottling the final product.

Touring the Lexington Brewing and Distilling Company is unique in that you’ll get to learn about both bourbon and beer.

Kentucky Bourbon Trail Craft Tour

Aside from their 18 Heritage distilleries, the Kentucky Bourbon Trail Craft Tour features 28 smaller but no less excellent distilleries, made to showcase the best of Kentucky craftsmanship and history.

The entire trail would take you a minimum of 5 days. I recommend you embark on this journey if you have a lot of time and money to spend (whether you live in the state or not).

If not, you can pick from a handful of Kentucky bourbon distilleries by area. The Craft Tour is divided into 4 regions: Northern, Central, Western, and Bluegrass.

Northern Kentucky Bourbon Trail Craft Tour

1) New Riff Distillery

Address: 24 Distillery Way, Newport, KY 41073 New Riff Distillery makes Bourbon, Rye, and soon Malted Rye. They also create special whiskey recipes and Kentucky Wild Gin. 2) Pensive Distillery Co

Address: 720 Monmouth St, Newport, KY 41071 Pensive Distillery Co is a trendy bar and eatery that serves American dishes for dinner and brunch. They make craft cocktails too. You can buy 100 proof bourbon, 80 proof bourbon, apple pie moonshine, and vodka from them. They also make their own spirits right here at the distillery. 3) Second Sights Spirits

4) Augusta Distillery 

Address: 207 Seminary Ave, Augusta, KY 41002 Augusta Distillery is a new player on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail. It’s located by the small Kentucky river town on limestone banks, a historic spot on the original Bourbon Trail. In 2023, Augusta Distillery snagged the San Francisco Spirits Awards for its Buckner’s 13-year-old single-barrel bourbon. You can join their “Pardon Our Dust” tour and barrel tasting for $29; it lasts an hour. 5) The Old Pogue Distillery 

6) Neeley Family Distillery 

Address: 4360 KY-1130, Sparta, KY 41086 Neeley Family Distillery creates a variety of products like bourbon, whiskey, rum, moonshine, vodka, and gin, all under the Neeley Family brand. Using traditional methods, the Neeley family crafts their award-winning Kentucky Bourbon with triple-copper pot distillation. Everything is pot distilled, sweet mashed, and made right on-site. The craft distillery has both indoor and outdoor bars and can be rented for events. It’s right by the Kentucky Speedway. 7) Boone County Distillery Co 

Address: 10601 Toebben Dr, Independence, KY 41051 Proudly part of the Kentucky Bourbon Trail Craft Tour and B-Line, Boone County Distilling is a small bourbon distillery in Boone County, Kentucky. They offer one-hour tours for $8 per person. Explore their history, see behind-the-scenes spirit production, and savor the aroma of their 1,000-barrel rick house. The tour ends with an educational tasting of their products in the tasting room.

Central Kentucky Bourbon Trail Craft Tour

8) Kentucky Artisan Distillery 

9) Kentucky Peerless Distillery Co. 

Address: 120 N 10th St, Louisville, KY 40202 Kentucky Peerless Distilling Co has been around since the late 1800s, passing through generations. They, like a few others, sold their product for medicinal purposes during Prohibition, but had to close down. However, in 2015, they made a comeback. Situated on 100 acres of active farmland, the company now produces top-notch Kentucky bourbon, whiskey, and rye brands. 10) Copper & Kings 

11) Jeptha Creed Distillery

Address: 500 Gordon Ln, Shelbyville, KY 40065 Jeptha Creed Distillery sits on 64 acres of Shelbyville Kentucky farmland. Woman-owned and operated by dynamic mother-and-daughter duo Joyce and Autumn Nethery, the company is crafting the next generation of high-end, delicious heritage distilled spirits with only the best ingredients locally grown and sourced. Jeptha Creed Distillery also offers moonshine, brandy, vodka, bourbon, and other ground-to-glass spirits. They have mixology classes, barrel tasting and spirit tasting, aside from the famous Kentucky Bourbon trail. 12) Willett Distillery 

Address: 1869 Loretto Rd, Bardstown, KY 40004 Willett Distillery is a private, family-owned-and-operated company that produces bourbon and rye whiskey. The rustic outpost is open for distillery tours, a tasting room & bar gifts. 13) Preservation Distillery and Farm

14) Log Still Distillery 

Address: 225 Dee Head Rd, New Haven, KY 40051 Log Still Distillery is a large, family-owned area spanning 300+ acres. Visit the Tasting Room to savor Monk’s Road premium Bourbons and Gins. They also have a massive 2300-seat Amphitheater known as the Amp, and a unique train experience. 15) Limestone Branch Distillery 

Address: 1280 Veterans Memorial Hwy, Lebanon, KY 40033 Stephen and Paul Beam founded Limestone Branch Distillery, continuing a 200-year legacy of Kentucky Bourbon. Look out for their well-known bourbons, Yellowstone Select and Limited Edition.  Limestone Branch Distillery is also home to Minor Case Rye Whiskey finished in Sherry Casks, and some unique products from their experimental collection.

Western Kentucky Bourbon Trail Craft Tour

16) Boundary Oak Distillery 

Address: 2000 Boundary Oak Dr, Radcliff, KY 40160 Boundary Oak Distillery is named after a 100-year-old, big oak tree on Brent Goodin’s family farm. They use water from a natural limestone spring at the tree’s base to craft small-batch Boundary Oak moonshine, bourbon, and amber. 17) The Bard Distillery

18) Casey Jones Distillery

Address: 2815 Witty Ln, Hopkinsville, KY 42240 Casey Jones Distillery sits on a charming 74-acre farm in Western Kentucky’s rolling hills. They specialize in small-batch, handcrafted craft spirits, including Kentucky Proud Bourbons, Barrel Cuts, Rye, and Moonshine. Their authentic square pot distilling sets them apart. 19) MB Roland Distillery  

Address: 137 Barkers Mill Rd, Pembroke, KY 42266 MB Roland Distillery is Kentucky’s first modern completely “grain to grass” craft distillery. It is also one of the founding members of the Kentucky Bourbon Trail Craft Tour. Aside from their world-famous bourbons, MB Roland Distillery also makes other unique whiskies not made at a typical Kentucky distillery, such as their “Dark Fired Whiskey,” their hemped bourbon, straight malt whiskey, and more. 20) Dueling Grounds Distillery

Address: 208 Harding Rd, Franklin, KY 42134 Dueling Grounds Distillery is a new whiskey spot between Nashville and the caves. They make Linkumpinch Bourbon by hand, aged for four years, available in single barrels and bottled in bond. You can also try their American Dry Gin and Barrel Aged Gin. Plus, don’t miss out on their pizza kitchen open from Friday through Sunday.

Bluegrass Kentucky Bourbon Trail Craft Tour

21) Whiskey Thief Distilling Co.

Address: 283 Crab Orchard Rd, Frankfort, KY 40601

Whiskey Thief Distilling , which is nestled on the beautiful 127-acre The Boys Farm, has been operating for over 10 years.

Whiskey Thief Distilling grows their own grains that they distill. They are also the first and only Kentucky Distillery to offer every visitor a single-barrel thieving/tasting experience, at barrel strength.

22) Castle & Key Distillery

Address: 4445 McCracken Pike, Frankfort, KY 40601

“The Castle” was originally the site of the Old Taylor Distillery (built in 1887 and first served as a distillery as early as 1819). It became the birthplace of Kentucky’s bourbon Tourism.

In 2014, the ruins of the once grand location were bought, restored, and became Castle & Key Distillery.

Today, the place offers admittance to the grounds at no cost. Castle & Key hosts various tour experiences, seasonal live music (Spring House Music Series), and weddings. They also have a bar on the property, where you can sample their proprietary bourbon distilled and released at the historic place.

23) Barrel House Distilling Co.

Address: 1200 Manchester St, Lexington, KY 40504

Barrel House Distilling Company is the maker of Pure Blue Vodka, Devil John Dark Shine, Oak Rum, Barrel House Select, Devil John Moonshine, and RockCastle Bourbon, among other award-winning spirits.

24) James E. Pepper Distillery

Address: 1228 Manchester St UNIT 100, Lexington, KY 40504

Colonel James E. Pepper (1850-1906) was a bold Bourbon industrialist and a lively promoter of his family brand. He was the third generation in the Pepper family making Old Pepper whiskey since 1780, back during the American Revolution.

His distillery in Lexington was once the largest in the U.S. from 1880 to 1967, but it was abandoned, along with the brand, for over 50 years.

After a decade of historical research and a multi-year reconstruction effort, new owner Amir Peay and team relaunched the brand, renovated the historic distillery, and reopened using the OG owner’s name “James E. Pepper” Distillery.

25) RD1 Spirits

Address: 1170 Manchester St Suite 190, Lexington, KY 40508

In 1865, the Ashland Distillery was established, the first to obtain a federally registered distillery license, and was assigned RD#1. Today, the remains of the original distillery can be found at the heart of Lexington’s Distillery District.

The RD1 Spirits brand was reborn in 2021 in hopes of producing the highest-quality Kentucky bourbon, whiskey, and rye brands that showcases the “Bluegrass Glory.”

26) Fresh Bourbon

Address: 377 E Main St ST. 100, Lexington, KY 40507

Sean and Tia Edwards, owners of Fresh Bourbon Distillery , lead one of the few Black-owned distilleries in the heart of Lexington.

Their distillery, nestled in the Bluegrass Region, provides a distinct Kentucky Bourbon and Mixology Cocktail Experience.

27) Bluegrass Distillers

Address: 501 W 6th St #165, Lexington, KY 40508

Bluegrass Distillers offers guided tours & tastings of bourbons & rye whiskeys in the heart of the Kentucky bluegrass region.

This craft bourbon distillery is one of few Kentucky distilleries to allow guests to draw bourbon straight from the barrel, cork it and label the bottle themselves.

28) Hartfield & Co.

Address: 320 Pleasant St, Paris, KY 40361

Hartfield & Co. is located downtown within beautiful and historic Paris Kentucky, in the heart of the Bluegrass in the birthplace of Bourbon Whiskey – Bourbon County. They are the first distillery to legally produce Bourbon from Bourbon County in 94 years, since Prohibition closed 26 distilleries in the county in 1920.

Today, Hartfield & Co. keeps the pre-Prohibition style (locally-sourced and in small batches) to capture the Bourbon Whiskey the distillery is known for.

Tips for Planning your Kentucky Bourbon Trail trip

• You don’t need to take a tour of every distillery.
• But if you feel you need to, book a slot ahead of time if you can, especially for the more popular ones.
• Show up early
• Decide early on whether you’re taking a tour bus or driving.

After you finish the trail, maybe visit Indiana Caverns , which is an adventure park half an hour away from Louisville via I-64.

Or maybe Mammoth Cave National Park ! It’s about 90 minutes south of Louisville and one of the largest caves (spanning over 400 miles!) in the world.

Other Alcohol-Themed Trails to Explore

If you plan to drink your way around the country, check out other similar itineraries:

• Louisiana Distilleries
• Tennessee Whiskey Trail
• Connecticut Wine Trail
• Hermann, MO Wine Trail
• New England Wineries

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All products and listings featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. If you purchase something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

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A Guide to the Kentucky Bourbon Trail

As the Kentucky Bourbon Trail—the official route that includes dozens of distillers of America’s Spirit (the corn whiskey distilled in oak barrels that’s only made here)—celebrates its 25th anniversary, there’s never been a better time to experience it. With a quarter-century under its belt, the trail of makers has seen smaller bourbon networks spring up nearby—like the Kentucky Craft Trail —for a smaller feel. And for something more urban, there’s now Louisville’s Urban Bourbon Trail , and Northern Kentucky’s B-Line of bourbon bars located just outside of bustling Cincinnati.

But no matter which bourbon trail you prefer, a trip to Kentucky isn't complete without experiencing a bourbon maker (or a few) of your choosing. Here are the stops and routes to consider for a Kentucky bourbon trip—whether you want the urban side of the route, or to get into the countryside for more remote producers—and the unique lodging options along the way.

Getting to the Kentucky Bourbon Trail

Most travelers will find Louisville to be the easiest destination to fly into, but Cincinnati is a good alternative if you’re starting on the northern end of the state to work your way south. To collect stamps and for some guidance along the way, download the official Kentucky Bourbon Trail app and field guide before you go, and know that reservations are also recommended at the big-name distilleries. And it should go without saying, but imbibing travelers should plan ahead how to get around: use a tour operator like the Kentucky Bourbon Bus , or a designated driver.

Hotel Distil is located in a converted barrel warehouse steps away from Whiskey Row.

When it comes to bourbon tourism, there’s no place quite like Louisville . You’ll see its character come out as soon as you land at the airport, which has multiple stores selling the Kentucky-made spirit, and iconic rocking chairs made from whiskey barrels.

Distilleries to visit and other things to do

You could easily hit dozens of distilleries within a weekend in Louisville, since most are within a short walk of downtown. Each one offers something different but at the very least has tours of the facility that typically include a tasting, often rare picks. Some distilleries offer something beyond the ordinary—at Michter’s , visitors can see the company’s original still, salvaged from the former Pennsylvania location, and fill their own bottles. Angel’s Envy also has their own bottling experience and monthly cocktail classes to help you craft the perfect drink with the company’s spirits.

Start at Churchill Downs , where the Kentucky Derby, the biggest day in horse racing, takes place. The museum features exhibits on famous past winners, the over-the-top attire worn by guests and, of course, the iconic mint julep. The Frazier Museum of History covers the state's history, including famous citizens and inventions plus interactive exhibits on how the spirits are made (and there's even a speakeasy). Don’t forget to get your official Kentucky Bourbon Trail passport here. Wander through Cave Hill Cemetery and Arboretum , Louisville’s historic burial ground, where the state’s biggest names, Colonel Harlan Sanders and Muhammad Ali, are buried.

Where to eat and drink

Louisville’s culinary scene is among the best in the region and no chef has helped cement its reputation like Edward Lee. Make a reservation at his flagship restaurant, 610 Magnolia , for his creative spin on Southern cuisine.

Start the day with the fresh-baked pastries and sandwiches at Butchertown Grocery . Bar Vetti has playful Italian fare and tasty cocktails. And if you aren’t bourboned out, end the night with a cocktail at Neat Bourbon Bar , voted one of the nation’s top bourbon bars.

Where to stay

Louisville is home to the historic Brown Hotel , plus there’s the contemporary art-addled 21C Museum Hotel , design-forward Hotel Genevieve , and the Myriad Hotel set in a former disco ball factory. But if you’re in town strictly here for bourbon, your best bet is the Hotel Distil, Autograph Collection : The converted barrel warehouse has a fantastic restaurant and location steps away from the fun of Whiskey Row.

Detour: If you’re road tripping between Louisville and Bardstown, detour to the town of Clermont, where you’ll find the sprawling Bernheim Arboretum and the incomparable James B. Beam Distilling Co. —take part in Master Distiller-led tasting before a delicious Southern-style meal (and one of the deliciously balanced bourbon cocktails) at the Kitchen Table Restauran t.

For a unique stay along the Kentucky Bourbon Trail, book a barrel-shaped cabin with Bourbon Barrel Retreats.

Called the “Bourbon Capital,” Bardstown’s history is deeply entwined with the spirit. There’s a mix of old and new distilleries to explore as well as the charming downtown. It’s a popular day trip option, but there’s enough to keep you overnight.

Distilleries to visit and things to do

All the heavy hitters are based in Bardstown, like Heaven Hill , the largest independently run bourbon distillery, with museum quality exhibits on bourbon history, the founding Shapira family, and its selection of brands like Elijah Craig and Larceny. Then visit the farm at Preservation Distillery , where longhorn steers roam the fields. Any whiskey nerd will want to stop by the Oscar Getz Museum of Whiskey History , located in an 1800s school and orphanage. It takes its name from a whiskey wholesaler who contributed the bulk of the museum’s collection of bourbon advertisements, bottles, and other artifacts.

The Old Talbott Tavern has a storied history beyond its menu, including past guests like Jesse James, Abraham Lincoln, and Daniel Boone. Dating back to 1779, it’s deeply tied to bourbon history, owned for a time by Jim Beam’s brother. It’s the best spot in town for a Hot Brown, Kentucky’s famous sandwich—plus, you can even spend the night. Scout & Scholar Brewing is a casual brewpub for wings, sandwiches, beer, and even barrel pick bourbons.

The options in Bardstown include bed and breakfasts and a few chain hotels but for something different, book a stay at the Bourbon Barrel Retreats , cabins made in the shape of whiskey barrels. Set between Bardstown and Louisville, all come equipped with kitchenettes and access to fire pits and hammocks for post-tour relaxation.

Detour: If you want to take your time on the Bourbon Trail up a notch, tour the Lebanon cooperage that makes white oak barrels for the state’s top distilleries.

End the night at Trifecta Glass Art Lounge, a speakeasy in a glassblowing studio.

Lexington and Frankfort

Set in the heart of horse country, the university town of Lexington and the nearby state capital of Frankfort are secondary options for basing yourself on the Bourbon Trail. Lexington has its own “urban bourbon” trail to explore, including stops like Fresh Bourbon Distillery and Bluegrass Distillers .

In Lexington, check out the exhibits at James E Pepper , one of the oldest distilleries in the area, before your tasting. At RD1 Spirits , choose from one of half a dozen tastings ranging from the basics to more in-depth mixology classes.

In Frankfort, Buffalo Trace Distillery has rightfully earned a place as an essential stop, where people line up for bottle releases and tours, including its Old Taylor distillery, arboretum, and landmark district. Don’t miss a chance to wander the gardens of Castle + Key , which surround the former E.H. Taylor distillery. This part of the Bourbon Trail has unique ways to see the area, including by bicycle or by riverboat . If your visit falls during spring and fall, don’t miss Keeneland , another famous horse race in the Bluegrass state.

Lexington has great dining, including Doodles , with its all-day breakfast, and Bourbon on Rye , which, of course, has a vast bourbon selection with elevated bar food. In Frankfort, Locals Food Hub & Pizza Pub crafts pizzas with the best local ingredients. End the night at Trifecta Glass Art Lounge , a speakeasy in a glassblowing studio.

The Manchester is the newest addition to Lexington’s hotel scene, with equestrian-inspired decor, vintage soaking tubs, and an in-house restaurant.

Revival Vintage Spirits in Covington

Northern Kentucky

The up-and-coming bourbon region is across the border from Cincinnati in Northern Kentucky . It’s here where you’ll find some of the state’s oldest operations. And you typically won’t need a reservation to visit the distilleries like you might with some of the bigger ones.

In Maysville, Old Pogue has the state’s third distilling license and was even owned for a time by notorious gangster George Remus. Stop by the riverside tasting room for a sample. New Riff in Newport is known for its ryes, but has incredible bourbon tastings, especially its bottled in bond bottles. Second Sight Spirits in Ludlow has a carnival-type feel with a “fortune-telling” still creating Kentucky bourbon, brandy, and rum. Learn about the area’s Prohibition history on the Newport Gangster Tour, which highlights the wild heyday of the city with gambling, brothels, and bootleggers like Remus. Back in Covington, you won’t want to miss Revival Vintage Spirits , which offers tastings and sales of its dusty bottles.

Family-run Libby’s Southern Comfort in Covington crafts an excellent brunch with local dishes like goetta plus plenty of bourbon. Don’t miss the Old Kentucky Bourbon Bar , with its narrow shelves covered in every type of bourbon imaginable. Head to Baker’s Table Bakery on Wednesdays, when the shop sells its delicious sourdough pizzas.

Hotel Covington , set inside a 1912 department store. The chic spot features a shop of local goods, and a bourbon-forward restaurant.

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Kentucky distilleries interactive map, use the map below to learn more about kentucky distilleries. click to move it, zoom in or zoom out, and click on each distillery to learn more about it. click the square in the upper left corner in the gray bar to open the clickable list of all distilleries grouped by category..

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Orange: Distilleries that allow visitors Olive Green : Distilleries that allow visitors but make moonshine or spirits other than bourbon Yellow: Distilleries with gift shops and tasting only, no tours Dark Green: Production distilleries, no tours Gray: Unclear designation, closed or may not exist Purple: Corporate Office

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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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Kentucky Bourbon Trail: The Complete Guide

TripSavvy / Taylor McIntyre

A combination of ideal weather, limestone water sources, and a long history of the craft make Central Kentucky the bourbon capital of the world. Visiting the winding trail of bourbon distilleries here (now officially called the Kentucky Bourbon Trail) has become a main draw to the area, and a whole tourism industry itself. 

The distilleries of the Kentucky Bourbon Trail are deeply rooted in history, many beginning operations in the 18th or 19th centuries that are still operated by the same families generations later. Today, bourbon’s popularity is at an all-time high, and in the past 20 years or so, many new distilleries have popped up among old favorites. These newer operations often restore the beautiful, historical properties of Kentucky’s original stills—centuries-old distilleries that either never reopened after prohibition or closed for other reasons. Take the history and the gorgeous natural settings, and add delicious, often entertaining whiskey tours and tastings, and you'll see why traveling along the Kentucky Bourbon Trail is such a special experience. 

With so many great distilleries spread across the rolling hills of Kentucky, planning a trip on the Bourbon Trail can feel a bit overwhelming. Make the most of your time by including a diverse mix of ones to visit, from big names in the industry, to up-and-coming, smaller-batch operations. The Kentucky Bourbon Trail website includes a map of all area distilleries , general exploring tips, and a calendar of upcoming distillery events .

Consider Lexington and Louisville as practical bases for your trip: most distilleries are within these cities, or in the small towns orbiting them, and both cities have vibrant downtowns full of hotels, restaurants, and notable sights. 

Explore our guide to the Kentucky Bourbon Trail for suggested routes, can’t-miss spots, and other tips for having the best experience in bourbon country. 

How to Experience the Kentucky Bourbon Trail

A long weekend is a good amount of time to spend on the Bourbon Trail, but if you plan to combine your trip with other area activities, a week is definitely doable. Traveling directly between Louisville and Lexington (when you aren’t stopping at distilleries) takes less than an hour, and both cities have convenient airports. 

With the many distilleries within its city limits, Louisville is a good jumping-off point on the trail. Spend the next day slowly heading out of Louisville to visit a few distilleries on the city’s outskirts, and then use Lexington as a homebase for the next couple of days. 

Renting a car gives you the most freedom to explore, but it's not necessary. Ride sharing services are abundant in the area, and there are many guided tour options as well. Here's a sample itinerary to follow for your visit.

Day 1: Downtown Louisville 

In Louisville, stay downtown at the Brown Hotel , a city landmark full of history and romance. From the Brown, you can walk (or call a rideshare) to distilleries along the city’s historic Whiskey Row by the Ohio River, such as Angel’s Envy , Old Forester Distilling Co. , and the modern Rabbit Hole Distillery in Louisville’s artsy NULU district. For a lesson on the wild and crazy tales of the Prohibition Era, book a tour at Prohibition Craft Spirits . 

Have a classic, refined dinner at the hotel restaurant , or opt for a more funky choice in town ( Latin farm-to-table , asian fusion , or BBQ and oysters ). 

Day 2: Louisville to Lexington: Clermont, Shelbyville, and Loretto

After a hearty breakfast of biscuits , it’s time to hit the trail! You have the choice to head southeast out of Louisville to explore the Jim Beam facilities. Then it’s on to Maker’s Mark , one of the farther distilleries (about an hour out of the way in Loretto, Kentucky) but a favorite for the hand-dipped bottles, gorgeous 1,000-acre farm, and onsite restaurant. Alternatively, and on a more direct route into Lexington, you can head to Bulleit Distilling Co.'s new state-of-the-art facility in Shelbyville. 

A stay at the boutique 21C Hotel makes a great homebase in Lexington; this artsy, modern hotel is located right downtown, and the lobby also functions as a contemporary art gallery. 

Take the evening to explore downtown Lexington. Make sure to stop for a drink at the Bluegrass Tavern , a Lexington classic that boasts the largest bourbon collection in the state. If you need a break from bourbon, a fine margarita at Corto Lima will do the trick. For dinner, opt for classic and refined , or hip and casual . 

Day 3: Lexington, Frankfort, Versailles, and Lawrenceburg

After breakfast at the hotel, it’s a 30-minute drive to the Frankfort area, where touring the new distillery at Castle & Key is a true gem. The repurposed stone castle and the rest of the historical property are breathtaking, and the distillery’s chic branding (with plenty of merchandise to take home from the gift shop) adds to the overall charm of the location. 

Woodford Reserve (a seven-minute drive from Castle & Key) has its own restaurant and is a great mid-day stop for lunch and a tour of its beautiful grounds. 

Twenty minutes northwest of Woodford Reserve, you’ll find Buffalo Trace Distillery ; 25 minutes southwest is Lawrenceburg, Kentucky, home to the Four Roses and Wild Turkey distilleries. 

Before heading out of Lexington, check out the city’s historic Distillery District, home to the recently revived James E. Pepper Distiller (and several other restaurants, bars, and breweries), one of Kentucky’s first bourbon brands originally created during the American Revolution. 

Distillery Information and Rules 

• Most tours cost $10 to $15 (including tastings), and are open from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Some distilleries are closed on Mondays. Tours typically run every hour, and it’s usually best to reserve online ahead of time. 
• Children under 21 are welcome on tours, for free or at a discounted cost (and no sampling whiskey for them, of course).
• For more distillery rules and Kentucky Liquor laws, check out Kentucky Liquor Laws and The Bourbon Trail. 

Transportation Options

You’ll need a designated driver along the trail, as you’ll be sipping and tasting whiskeys. Even if there is a sober one among the group, it can be a good idea to arrange a local driver for navigating the winding country roads. Uber and Lyft are also all good choices, and if you've managed to stay sober, biking can also be a fun option. 

Where to Eat

Lexington or Louisville aren’t the only places to eat well in bourbon country. Everything from five-star restaurants to delicious sandwich stands can be found in the small towns along the way between distilleries.

Beyond the Trail

If time allows, consider the area’s other great export: thoroughbred horses. Races at Keeneland Race Course in Lexington take place in October and April, and at Churchill Downs in Louisville in November, May, and June . There are tours and special events at both facilities year round.

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Discover the Best Bourbon Trail Tours in Kentucky

Travel Guides

Explore the unique world of bourbon with these top 13 Kentucky bourbon trail tours. Sip on your favorites and discover Kentucky's distilleries.

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 “discover the best bourbon trail tours in kentucky”.

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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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. 

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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.

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Explore the rich tradition and proud history of "America's Official Native Spirit" on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail® tour, featuring a number of signature distilleries nestled among beautiful Bluegrass Region scenery.

Kentucky's legendary distilleries have crafted the world's finest Bourbons for more than 200 years, using secret recipes and methods passed down from generation to generation.

In 1999, the Kentucky Distillers' Association formed the Kentucky Bourbon Trail® tour to give visitors a firsthand look at the art and science of crafting Bourbon, and to educate them about the rich history and proud tradition of Kentucky's signature spirit.

Bourbon tourism is skyrocketing, with nearly 2 million visitors from all 50 states and 25 countries to the world-famous Kentucky Bourbon Trail® tour in the last five years alone.

Visit the official site to learn more: www.kybourbontrail.com

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15 Best Bourbon Tours in Kentucky (2024 Edition)

• Written By Lydia Martin
• February 13, 2023

Last Updated on February 22, 2024 by Lydia Martin

Kentucky is known for bluegrass and horse racing, but another reason to visit the state is the Kentucky distilleries, and its impressive roster has reached 73.

If you plan to take Kentucky’s bourbon trail, here are the best bourbon tours in Kentucky that you should not miss out on! 

Table of Contents

Top 15 Bourbon Tours To Experience in Kentucky 

1. angel’s envy distillery.

Address: 500 E Main St Louisville, KY 40202

Best Time To Visit: December to March

Opening Hours: 

• Monday and Wednesday – 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
• Tuesday – 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM
• Thursday – 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM
• Friday and Saturday – 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
• Sunday – 12:30 PM – 5:30 PM

Tour Price: $25 – $99

What They Offer:

Angel’s Envy is one of the Kentucky distilleries that offer appointment signature tours. You will have a chance to see the bourbon distillation process and then a guided bourbon tasting .

At the end of the Angel’s Envy tour , you will taste their own Rye Finished in Caribbean Rum Casks and Angel’s Envy Bourbon Finished in Port Casks. 

2. Buffalo Trace Distillery

Address:   113 Great Buffalo Trace, Frankfort, KY 40601

• Monday to Saturday – 9:00 AM -5:00 PM
• Sunday – 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Tour Price: FREE

Buffalo Trace Distillery is a family-owned distillery, and even if it is not included in the Kentucky bourbon trail, you should not miss out Buffalo Trace tour and tasting.

Buffalo Trace offers a historic distillery visit, production and bottling process, and bourbon tasting for free! 

3. Bulleit Distilling Co.

Address:   3900 Benson Pike, Shelbyville, KY 40065

Best Time To Visit: December to February

• Wednesday to Saturday – 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
• Sunday – 11:30 PM – 5:00 PM

Tour Price: $22  

Bulleit Distilling Co is a Kentucky distillery that offers a full tour of their bourbon distillery where you can see up close the making of Bulleit bourbon.

A guided tour portion includes a shuttle ride plus a 15-minute rye whiskey tasting at their assigned tasting room.

We have some of the top snacks for bourbon tasting here . 

4. Castle & Key Distillery

Address: 4445 McCracken Pike, Frankfort, KY 40601, United States

• Thursday to Saturday – 10:30 AM – 5:00 PM
• Sunday – 12:00 PM – 5:00 AM 

Tour Price: $30

Castle & Key Distillery is a bourbon distillery that offers a guided tour so the guests can explore the distillery’s rich history.

In addition, the distillery tour includes a visit to the current production process of the bourbon.

The tours conclude with a neat tasting which every bourbon lover looks forward to. 

5. Evan Williams Bourbon Experience

Address: 528 W Main St, Louisville, KY 40202, United States

• Tuesday to Thursday -11:00 AM – 5:00 PM
• Friday to Saturday – 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
• Sunday – 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM

Tour Price : $15 – $25

When planning to take the bourbon trail, do not miss visiting Evan Williams distillery because it is one of the best Kentucky distillery tours in the state.

One-hour distillery tour includes a trip to their bourbon history, viewing their bourbon distilling process, and a guided tasting.

But what’s our favorite place to stay for the Bourbon Trail ?

6. Four Roses Distillery

Address:  1224 Bonds Mill Rd Lawrenceburg, KY 40342

• Wednesday to Saturday – 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
• Sunday – 12:00 NN – 4:00 PM

Tour Price: $16-$45

Four Roses distillery situated in Lawrenceburg is a historic distillery made in 1910. It is a National Historic Landmark in Kentucky because of its Spanish mission style distillery.

The three Kentucky distillery tours offer in-depth history and bourbon production of Four Roses; make sure to drop by their large gift shop. 

7. Green River Distilling Co.

Address: 10 Distillery Rd, Owensboro, KY 42301

• Monday to Saturday – 10:00 AM, 11:00 AM, 1:00 PM and 2:00 PM

Tour Price: $12 – $45 

Learn how bourbon goes from mash bill to barrel with Owensboro’s Green River Distilling Co. distillery tour.

Bourbon lovers would surely enjoy the tasting experience of the brand, plus you can grab a delicious cocktail at their lounger after the tour. 

Read: The Best Whiskey Distilleries in Scotland

8. Heaven Hill Distillery

Address: 1311 Gilkey Run Rd, Bardstown, KY 40004

• Monday to Saturday – 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Tour Price:  $25 – $40

Heaven Hill Distillery tour is different from other distilleries because the tour revolves around tasting, purchasing bottles, and exploring the hands-on lab. 

While it does not hold a personal tour around the production of Kentucky bourbon, you can inspect yeast in the microscope and test your sense of smell at their nosing station. 

9. Jim Beam Distillery

Address: 568 Happy Hollow Road, Clermont, KY

Best Time To Visit: January to March

• Wednesday to Saturday – 9:30 AM – 3:30 PM
• Sunday – 12:15 PM – 2:45 PM

Tour Price: $22

Part of the Kentucky bourbon trail is the tour to Jim Beam Distillery (James B. Beam Distilling Co.). Like most distilleries in Kentucky, Jim Beam offers several interactive tours for guests.

In Beam Made Bourbon Distillery Tour, guests will walk through the bourbon production with the barrel tour and then taste bourbon whiskey . 

10. Maker’s Mark Distillery

Address: 3350 Burks Spring Rd, Loretto, KY 40037

Best Time To Visit:  January to March

• Monday to Saturday – 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM
• Sunday – 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM

If you want outdoor distillery tours, you can check out Maker’s Mark distillery, consisting of ¼ mile of walking.

Maker’s Mark distillery is a National Historic Landmark, so it can be your favorite tour because it is picture-perfect.

However, you have to get online reservations at Maker’s Mark to experience this state-of-the-art landmark. 

Be toured around a few production buildings for crafting bourbon, and the tour will end with a bourbon tasting of Maker’s Mark bourbon. 

11. Mitcher’s Fort Nelson Distillery

Address : Michter’s Fort Nelson Distillery, 801 West Main Street, Louisville, KY 40202

• Wednesday to Saturday – 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
• Sunday – 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM

Tour Price: $20

Mitcher’s Fort Nelson Distillery in downtown Louisville is the home of one of the great-tasting bourbons, Mitcher’s Fort.

Make sure to drop by the distillery when taking the bourbon trail because you will learn the extra steps in the brand’s production process- from barreling to the bottling line. 

Read : Some Bourbons You Can Only Get In Kentucky

12. Old Forester Distillery

Address: 119 W Main St, Louisville, KY 40202

Tour Price: $32

Old Forester Distillery is one of the oldest Kentucky distilleries you can find in the bourbon country, so take their legacy tour.

Be guided from fermentation to tasting four expressions. The bourbon distilleries like Old Forester ensure that your trip will be worthwhile. 

13. Rabbit Hole

Address: 711 E Jefferson St, Louisville, KY 40202

Best Time To Visit:  December to February

• Tuesday to Saturday- 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Tour Price: $25

Rabbit Hole Distillery is a state-of-the-art distillery in Louisville that hubs culture and food at their on-site restaurant.

The immersive one-hour tour starts with a dram of Cavehill, whiskey-making process, and an overlooking lounge where you can taste four award-winning spirits from the distillery. 

14. Wild Turkey

Address: 1525 Tyrone Rd, Lawrenceburg, KY 40342

• Thursday to Saturday – 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Tour Price: $10

Discover and experience Wild Turkey bourbon’s complex and perfected process and walk through the memory lane in their Wild Turkey bourbon tour.

The distillery sits on top of the Kentucky River, and like other bourbon brands, it will end with a tasting of their sample goods, so relax and enjoy! 

15. Woodford Reserve Distillery

Address: 7785 McCracken Pike, Versailles, KY 40383

• Tuesday to Saturday – 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
• Sunday – 12:00 NN – 4:30 PM

The Woodford Reserve Distillery bourbon tour is a guided experience where you can learn and explore Woodford Reserve history and how they produce premium bourbons.

The Woodford Reserve tour concludes with tasting the award-winning craft bourbon, but you have to book three months in advance because they only allow 16 guests per tour. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the best way to do a bourbon tour?

The best way to do a bourbon tour is by doing a mix of tours, tasting, and interactive activities.

While most tours offer tasting and tours, few distilleries offer cocktail-making classes and in-depth behind-the-scenes tours. 

What is the best time to do the Bourbon tour?

The best time to do the Bourbon tour is from the end of November to March. The weather is favorable to hold a tour, plus there are least tourists this month, so it is less crowded.

You will enjoy the unique tours without worrying about the weather and the crowd. 

What is the best bourbon distillery to visit in Kentucky?

Choosing the best bourbon distillery to visit in Kentucky depends on personal preferences, but some renowned options are Buffalo Trace, Maker’s Mark, and Woodford Reserve.

Each distillery offers a unique experience, from historic facilities to picturesque landscapes. Buffalo Trace, for instance, boasts a rich history and a diverse range of bourbon expressions, making it a popular choice among enthusiasts.

How many days do you need for the Kentucky Bourbon Trail?

The Kentucky Bourbon Trail typically takes about 3 to 4 days to complete, allowing visitors to fully immerse themselves in the bourbon culture.

This timeframe accommodates tours and tastings at multiple distilleries, as well as exploration of nearby attractions. However, the duration can be customized based on individual preferences and the number of distilleries one wishes to visit.

Is Jim Beam distillery worth visiting?

Absolutely! The Jim Beam distillery, located in Clermont, Kentucky, is one of the most iconic and historic distilleries in the state.

It offers engaging tours, showcasing the bourbon-making process, and provides a glimpse into the Beam family’s distilling legacy. The picturesque surroundings and diverse bourbon selections make it a worthwhile stop for both bourbon novices and connoisseurs.

Where is the best place to start the Bourbon Trail?

Louisville, with its central location and vibrant bourbon scene, is often considered the ideal starting point for the Bourbon Trail.

This city is home to the Frazier History Museum, featuring the Kentucky Bourbon Trail Welcome Center, offering an informative introduction to the bourbon industry. From Louisville, visitors can easily access various distilleries along the trail.

What to wear to a Kentucky Bourbon tour?

Dress comfortably and casually for a Kentucky Bourbon tour, as many distilleries have relaxed dress codes. Comfortable footwear is advisable, especially if the tour involves walking through the distillery grounds. Given the often unpredictable Kentucky weather, it’s wise to bring layers, as tours may include both indoor and outdoor elements.

Sunglasses, a hat, and sunscreen can also be beneficial for outdoor tours during sunny days. Overall, the emphasis is on practical and relaxed attire, allowing visitors to enjoy the bourbon experience to the fullest.

What city has the most bourbon distilleries?

Louisville, Kentucky, is often considered the city with the most bourbon distilleries. As the largest city on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail, Louisville serves as a central hub for bourbon enthusiasts.

It is home to a variety of distilleries, including iconic ones like Angel’s Envy, Evan Williams Bourbon Experience, and the Bulleit Frontier Whiskey Experience, offering a diverse range of bourbon experiences for visitors.

Which state has the best bourbon?

Kentucky is widely regarded as the state with the best bourbon. The Bluegrass State has a deep-rooted bourbon heritage, with its limestone-rich water and climate creating optimal conditions for bourbon production.

Kentucky’s commitment to traditional craftsmanship and adherence to strict standards contribute to the exceptional quality of its bourbons, making it a global leader in the industry.

What do you wear on the Bourbon Trail?

Casual and comfortable attire is suitable for the Kentucky Bourbon Trail. Since tours may involve walking through distillery facilities, comfortable shoes are recommended.

Dressing in layers is advisable due to potential variations in indoor and outdoor temperatures. Sunglasses, a hat, and sunscreen can be useful for outdoor tours, especially during sunny weather. The emphasis is on practical and relaxed clothing, allowing visitors to enjoy the bourbon experience without any clothing restrictions.

Do you need reservations for the Kentucky Bourbon Trail?

While some distilleries on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail may welcome walk-in visitors, it is advisable to make reservations, especially during peak seasons.

Popular distilleries often have high demand for tours and tastings, and making reservations ensures that you secure a spot and have a smoother experience. Check the specific distilleries’ policies, as some may require reservations for certain tours or events.

Can you visit Kentucky distilleries without a tour?

Yes, many Kentucky distilleries allow visitors to explore their grounds without a formal tour. While tours provide in-depth insights into the bourbon-making process, history, and traditions, some distilleries offer self-guided experiences or have areas open to the public without requiring a guided tour.

It’s advisable to check each distillery’s policies in advance to determine whether reservations or specific tour arrangements are necessary for your preferred visit.

Finval Verdict: Best Bourbon Tours In Kentucky

The best bourbon tour in Kentucky is the Angel’s Envy Distillery because, aside from the conventional bourbon tour that involves history and tasting, they offer interactive activities. The tour starts at the distillery store, then in the heart of the production process, and ends at the finishing room for tasting. 

Also, you can experience a hands-on bottling of a 750 ml bourbon for a separate fee and get to bring it home with a commemorative case and display stand. Imagine how fun it would be to learn the bourbon process [ 1 ] and get home with your own spirit that you bottled! 

• https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/food-science/bourbon-whiskey

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Kentucky Bourbon Trail: A Local’s Guide – Everything You Need to Know

• 10 minute read

• February 11, 2023

Thinking about Visiting the KY Bourbon Trail? Start your planning here!

You can’t come to Kentucky and not take a tour of the bourbon distilleries. It’s like going to Napa Valley and not visiting any wineries. The Kentucky Bourbon Trail is a must-do for anyone interested in learning about or tasting this iconic American whiskey. And as a local, I’m the perfect person to give you the lowdown on everything you need to know about taking this trail. So sit back, grab a glass of your favorite bourbon, and get ready for a virtual tour of the Kentucky Bourbon Trail!

SEE ALSO: Best Bourbon Distillery Gift Shops

Table of Contents

Passport & field guide, bourbon trail map, distilleries, bourbon trail tours & reservations, events & experiences, itineraries, transportation, hotels, airbnbs, and where to stay, where to eat and drink, where to shop: distillery gift shops, liquor stores, shop local, shop bourbon gear now, taste the state’s rich bourbon history..

If you’re looking for an unforgettable experience, why not take a tour of the Kentucky Bourbon Trail. This tour was designed to educate visitors on the state’s long-standing and unrivaled bourbon history. Along your journey, you can explore many of Kentucky’s great distilleries while tasting some of the world’s finest bourbons crafted from generations-old recipes. The Kentucky Bourbon Trail offers a unique opportunity to learn about America’s original craft spirit directly from the people who know it best. So whether you’re an experienced connoisseur or new to the game, there’s something for everyone on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail!

The Bourbon Trail Passport & Field Guide is a must-have for any exploration of America’s native spirit. Developed by the Kentucky Distillers’ Association in 1999, this handy book provides an up-to-date map of every distillery of the iconic beverage, as well as further information such as additional resources and local events of interest. Not only does the passport make matching your tour to a boozey GPS easy, but it also reveals facts about the unique history and culture behind your chosen drinking spots. With expert advice on what tasty concoctions await you at each establishment, even novices will feel like an old pro in this world of rich flavors and warm welcomes. The Bourbon Trail Passport and Field Guide provides all the tools necessary to maximize your drinking experience – be it for leisurely sipping or educational investigation – allowing you to travel through sites that have crafted some of the oldest bourbons in existence and be back for dinner with time to spare!

Taking a spin around Kentucky’s famous Bourbon Trail is an experience like no other. From the distilleries in Louisville and Lexington to the “Bourbon Capital of the World” in Bardstown , you will find iconic locations with a rich history to explore. Venturing further down the trail will take you to places like Clermont, Lawrenceburg, and Henderson. Enjoy your stay with unique experiences like craft tours, whiskey tastings, special exhibits, and other attractions centered around bourbon. A trip to Wild Turkey Distillery in Lawrenceburg gives you a peek of into Jimmy Russel’s bourbon lore while Bardstown’s Heaven Hill Bourbon Heritage Center offers glimpses into The Bible Barrel Collection telling the stories of each bottle. Create lasting memories on this boozy adventure with some of Kentucky’s finest bourbons!

If you’re looking for a libation-filled self-guided tour through the best distilleries in Kentucky, then the Bourbon Trail is just the ticket! Jim Beam has been around since 1795 and is one of the oldest distilleries on the Trail. Its interactive exhibits will take you back to its earliest days, from where it’s come and made some of the most iconic Bourbon drinks that are enjoyed globally today. Then there’s Maker’s Mark who specialize in their famous wheated bourbon style and offer a unique experience for tourists – signing your own wax dipped bottle of Maker’s Mark as a souvenir. Heaven Hill Distillery offers guided tours on different styles of bourbon production as well as Four Roses Distillery where they highlight several expressions that incorporate small batch production. With so much to do and learn, there’s no wonder why this KY Bourbon Trail is so popular!

• Angel’s Envy Distillery in Louisville
• Bulleit Frontier Experience at the Stitzel–Weller Distillery in Louisville
• Bulleit Distilling Co. in Shelbyville
• Evan Williams Bourbon Experience in Louisville
• Michter’s Fort Nelson Distillery in Louisville
• Old Forester Distilling Co. in Louisville
• Rabbit Hole Distillery in Louisville
• Town Branch Distillery in Lexington
• Woodford Reserve Distillery near Versailles
• Wilderness Trail in Danville
• Four Roses Distillery in Lawrenceburg
• Wild Turkey Distillery in Lawrenceburg
• Bardstown Bourbon Company in Bardstown
• Lux Row Distillers in Bardstown
• Maker’s Mark Distillery in Loretto
• Heaven Hill Visitor Center in Bardstown
• James B. Beam in Clermont
• Green River Distilling Co. in Owensboro

Taking a tour of the Kentucky Bourbon Trail should be at the top of everyone’s to-do list for their next trip down south! It’s an unforgettable experience filled with mouth-watering flavors, unique aromas, and plenty of history. The rich culture and hospitality found along the trail are impossible to forget. But don’t delay – book your reservation in advance as these acclaimed tours are known to sell out quickly.

Out-of-towners both near and far flock to this legendary destination, meaning that standing room won’t be available if you wait until the last minute! Step into the storied heritage of Kentucky bourbon and book your Bourbon Trail Tours well before you even make the trip! Otherwise, you may be limited to touring only the gift shop, all jokes aside. It’s no surprise that this one-of-a-kind attraction has gained popularity – after all, nothing screams ‘Kentucky’ louder than a sip of bourbon or two!

Exploring the Bourbon Trail is an experience like no other! Take part in barrel thieving, an experience involving full barrels of whiskey in the rick house, which are at various levels through their aging process. Later, join fellow spirit connoisseurs from across the globe at the annual Kentucky Bourbon Festival for tasting events and hands-on distillery workshops. With fun activities throughout the trail, you’re bound for an unforgettable adventure!

Planning a Kentucky Bourbon Trail itinerary is an adventure in itself! Whether you have a long weekend or a full week, there are endless options for exploring the art of bourbon making. A classic three-day excursion may include stops at Jim Beam and Wild Turkey in Lawrenceburg, Maker’s Mark in Loretto and Woodford Reserve near Versailles. After your whiskey pilgrimage through central Kentucky, wind down with dinner and –of course–an excellent bourbon cocktail at a cozy Louisville eatery. If you’re looking to make your vacation even more unique, consider adding a Horse Country tour en route to a famous Woodford County distillery, visit a barrel cooperage, or take part in an exclusive barrel pick experience. No matter how much time you have to explore the Bourbon Trail, there is no shortage of fun and flavorsome activities to captivate your palette.

Exploring the renowned Bourbon Trail is a must for any connoisseur of fine spirits! Whether you’re looking for a toe-dipping excursion or an all-out immersion, there are plenty of itineraries to choose from. For the casual sipper, a day in Lexington entailing visits to Ethereal Brewing and Castle & Key Distillery should do the trick. Serious aficionados may opt for a two-day excursion up and down Versailles Road, making sure to include stops at Mash House on Main, Bluegrass Distillers, Labrot & Graham Visitor’s Center, Town Branch Distillery and Jadehaus Brewery. If you really want to experience it all, then consider camping out in Kentucky over the course of a week. During that time you can visit historic distilleries from Four Roses Bourbon in Lawrenceburg to Jim Beam American Stillhouse (with its Statue of Colonel James B. Beam!) in Clermont – not mentioning craft breweries from Miracle Mile Brewing Company to Lion’s Tooth Brewing Co – cheers!

If you’re looking to embark on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail, then Mint Julep Experiences and Pegasus Distillery Experiences private tours with luxury cars as well as a unique bourbon boat option down the Ohio River. Or for a more immersive journey, Central Kentucky Tours offer guided jaunts that really bring out the best of each distillery. If you are just visiting Louisville, why not try Loulift – they provide shuttles from one distillery to another so you don’t miss any of the action! Get ready for an inspirational hour of sipping bourbon while soaking up all the culture of Kentucky’s Whiskey Road!

• Mint Julep Experiences
• Pegasus Distillery Experiences
• Central Kentucky Tours

If you’re headed to the Bourbon Trail, then you know there are plenty of places to stay along the way! From Hotel Distil in Louisville to the Lodge at Dant Crossing, your accommodation can make all the difference for a great trip. Not into hotel living? Recently Airbnb has made it easier than ever to snag a rental wherever you’re headed, so finding something more unique or convenient is easier than ever. Wherever you end up on the Bourbon Trail, make sure you pick a place that fits your style.

Hotel Distil in Louisville, a hotel that features urban-style rooms with deluxe amenities and remote workstations, but also offers affordable rates on weekdays. If you’re looking for something a bit more traditional but still economical, The Lodge at Dan Crossing is located in the heart of bourbon country and just minutes away from many attractions. Another possibility for those looking for a unique experience is Airbnb rentals near some of the major distilleries, where you can find cozy rooms nestled in local neighborhoods and establishments with all the comforts of home.Bon voyage!

The Bourbon Trail is an amazing destination that allows visitors to explore the foothills of Kentucky and get a taste of all the great Bourbons they have to offer. With so much culture, history, and deliciousness concentrated in one area, it’s hard to know where to begin. If you’re looking for somewhere special to eat and drink near the Bourbon Trail, Bourbon Bistro has some of the most mouthwatering southern food you can find! For something a bit more historic, try The Old Talbott Tavern – it was established as far back as 1779! And who can ignore Gertie’s Whiskey Bar with its specialty craft Bourbons for those who want a real experience? For lunch or dinner night time drinks, Bardstown Bourbon Company Kitchen & Bar is a must-see. Then finish off with Justins’ House of Bourbon and Proof on Main when you want top-notch Bourbons choices mixed with some excellent cuisine. Last but not least, don’t forget Watch Hill Proper if you’re looking for the perfect spot to spend your evenings.

Planning a trip to the bourbon trail? It’s important to get your taste buds ready for the experience! Bourbons Bistro is a delicious spot to wet your whistle, featuring hundreds of Bourbons and inventive food offerings. If you’re looking for a bar-style atmosphere with homemade cocktails, keep an eye out for Gertie’s Whiskey Bar–the decor and historic building will be sure to enchant you. Justins’ House of Bourbon offers relaxed cocktails and Kentucky noshes, plus live music on weekends. Proof On Main also serves up great small plates alongside an extensive selection of Bourbons and whiskeys. Last but not least is Watch Hill Proper, boasting lively drinks inspired by local ingredients and flavors. With so many choices in the area, there’s surely something to please everyone!

If you find yourself looking for a place to shop while on the Bourbon Trail, you have several options. Distillery gift shops are great places to find limited edition bottles and apparel that celebrate the spirit. Toddy’s Liquor Store in Bardstown is an excellent choice if you can make it there; it’s known for its selection of rare bourbons. But don’t forget the smaller local shops either! Justins’ House of Bourbon in Louisville or shop local KY Supply Co products and regional souvenirs that help showcase your trip on the Bourbon Trail and support small businesses at the same time. You can even shop online prior to your trip at kysupplyco.com for the best bourbon apparel and accessories to ensure you show up in style! Several of the distillery gift shops offer the “same ole products,” but this Kentucky shop offers exclusive and unique products that you won’t find anywhere else.

A must-do for any whiskey lover.

The Kentucky Bourbon Trail is the ultimate travel experience for anyone who loves whiskey. Visitors will get to take a behind-the-scenes look at some of the most iconic distilleries in the world and learn about the fascinating history and unique flavor profiles of their favorite liquors. Along their journey, guests can also explore artisan shops, cozy cafes and beautiful bourbon country landscapes, giving them a great insight into small town America. On top of all that fun and learning, they will receive a special souvenir to commemorate their trip – an official Kentucky Bourbon Trail passport! So what are you waiting for? Come join us on the trail and make lasting memories with true American whiskey connoisseurs!

There are many different things to do along the Kentucky Bourbon Trail, which makes it a great destination for any whiskey lover. With so many different distilleries, each with its own unique story and flavor profile, there is something for everyone on the trail. In addition to distillery tours and tastings, there are also many events and experiences that take place along the trail throughout the year. Whether you are looking to explore the rich history of bourbon in Kentucky or simply want to taste some of the best whiskey in the world, the Kentucky Bourbon Trail is a must-do for any fan of this iconic American spirit.

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KENTUCKY DERBY 150: BACCARAT EDITION

The ultimate expression of american whiskey.

Woodford Reserve®, “Presenting Sponsor of the Kentucky Derby®,” commemorates the 150th running of the world’s most famous race with a unique and extraordinary expression of American Whiskey. This Cognac cask finished American Whiskey, aged in handcrafted couture barrels seasoned in the Kentucky Derby Winner’s Circle at Churchill Downs®, is presented in stunning Baccarat crystal. This truly remarkable Woodford Reserve expression is a tribute to 150 years of greatness.

Buy Online for Pickup at the Distillery

The barrels, american white oak staves, seasoned in the kentucky derby winner's circle, were hand-raised into two couture barrels., the whiskey, these couture barrels were filled with woodford reserve's rare xo cognac cask finished american whiskey for its third barrel influence., the decanter, this thrice-barreled whiskey is presented in stunning baccarat crystal. to pay homage to the famous garland of roses, baccarat infused the crystal stopper with 24k gold to create the striking red color..

Tasting Notes

Color: Carnelian Red Aroma: Rich floral and red fruit notes sweetened with honey and textured with hearty oak and brown spices. Taste: Brown sugar-caramelized citrus peel, rich toasted oak, caramel, warming spices and dried dark fruit. Finish: Big and bold with a long smoothing fruit and spice presence.

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