distillery tours frankfort ky

Experience The World's Bourbon Destination

Explore 200 years of history along the bourbon trail. Located in Frankfort, Kentucky, our tours and tastings are always complimentary, but registration is recommended.

Tours at Buffalo Trace Distillery

Honor Tradition, Embrace Change

Hard Hat Tour

Old Taylor Tour

Arboretum and Botanical Gardens Tour

National Historic Landmark Tour

Looking for the perfect gift, let us help you choose a gift for everyone on your list. our gift finder makes it easy.

Visiting Buffalo Trace Distillery

Plan Your Visit

No trip along the bourbon trail is complete without a visit to Buffalo Trace Distillery, the world’s bourbon destination.

Purchasing and Tasting at Buffalo Trace Distillery

Frequently Asked Questions

George T. Stagg Gallery and Gift Shop

Visit our gift shop located in former Warehouse A, an historic 1881 aging warehouse to shop a curated selection of our award-winning spirits as well as branded apparel, home goods, and gifts. 

Buffalo Trace Online Gift Shop

Shop our online gift shop for wide assortment of exclusive merchandise conveniently shipped to your home.

Buffalo Trace Distillery Tours & Tastings

Distillery hours.

Monday - Saturday: 9 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Sunday: 11:00 a.m – 5:00 p.m.

Buffalo Trace Distillery is closed Easter Sunday, Independence Day, Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day.  

Gift Shop Hours

Monday - Saturday: 9 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Sunday: 11:00 a.m – 5:00 p.m.

Photography Guidelines

Click here to view information on our Photography Guidelines

Parking Directions

THE 5 BEST Frankfort Distillery Tours

Distillery tours in frankfort.

• Distillery Tours
• Sightseeing Tours
• Factory Tours
• Kayaking & Canoeing
• Wine Tours & Tastings
• Historical & Heritage Tours
• Private Tours
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• Good for Big Groups
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Good for Kids
• Budget-friendly
• Good for Couples
• Adventurous
• Hidden Gems
• Honeymoon spot
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Kentucky River Tours

2. Neat Kentucky Tours

3. Rolling Barrel Tours

4. Louisville Guest Services

5. j. mattingly 1845, what travelers are saying.

• Kentucky River Tours
• Neat Kentucky Tours
• Rolling Barrel Tours
• J. Mattingly 1845
• Louisville Guest Services

CATCH THE BOURBON BOAT

"the nation's only boat-based bourbon tour".

Experience the  Kentucky Bourbon Trail ® by boat- a unique way to learn about the Kentucky River’s influence on the history of bourbon.

Come see why early whiskey distillers cherished this river, and decided to build their fortunes on it’s banks. discover the  kentucky bourbon trail ® from a new perspective, w ith kentucky river tours..

"Had a fun family outing to celebrate Father’s Day! Highly recommend a Kentucky River Tour. Captain Allison and Captain Nathan were super knowledgeable and friendly!"

Slide title

"A relaxing ride up the Kentucky River, filled with the beautiful sites and interesting information (both historic and current) about the area. Hosted by Captains Allison and Nathan, the tour could not have been more delightful. Best hour off my week. Highly recommend!"

"We did one of their tours today and highly recommend this company. Check it out!"

"My son came in town from Wisconsin and we decided to take the river boat ride. It is probably one of the best things to do in Kentucky. We were all extremely impressed with the way the trip was run and Captain Nathan was very knowledgeable of the events of history. We enjoyed it immensely."

"A beautiful, pleasant, informative trip on the river is such an awesome way to spend the afternoon. Pairs PERFECTLY with a trip to Buffalo Trace!"

"Had a great time on the new Bourbon Tour, Nathan is so knowledgeable about the Kentucky River, tons of fun and educational too."

Kate from Frankfort, Kentucky

"Captains Allison and Nathan are both great! They took us on a beautiful tour of Frankfort's Kentucky River. They showed us lots of points of interest and catered to our 3 year-old's love of turtles by slowing down the boat so she could see them sunbathing. The boat was pristine and had all of the necessary safety equipment. I would highly recommend this adventure!"

"This is our 2nd trip to the Kentucky area and the boat tour was a perfect add to the trip. Extremely informative and just relaxing. Is a great compliment to the bourbon trail and I would highly recommend!! Captain was fun, full of history and great to listen to and we Thank him for adding to our vacation."

"A trip with Captain Nathan and Allison is relaxing and as comfortable as if you were with old friends. Totally enjoyable ride along the lovely Kentucky river with those who know the history and share it’s interesting stories. The boat is quite comfortable and the ride was smooth. Even on a cloudy afternoon they fill it with Kentucky hospitality and charm. Would definitely recommend this delightful tour!"

We're an Official Sponsor of The

701 Wilkinson Blvd, Frankfort, KY 40601

(502) 219-3318

[email protected]

TOURS OFFERED

• Bourbon Themed Tour
• Historic River Tours
• Kentucky River Tour 
• Bourbon Tour
• River Boat Tours
• Buffalo Trace Tours
• Bourbon Trail Tours
• Bourbon Distillery Tour

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BOOK A TOUR

BAR, MUSIC, AND FOOD REOPEN MARCH 

ABOUT       FAQ       CAREERS       PRO SHOP       SPIRITS    

502-552-1001.

THE DESTINATION FOR BOURBON WANDERLUSTERS

283 CRAB ORCHARD RD

Frankfort, ky 40601, social 'proof'.

LOVED THE TOUR AND THE  BOURBON. OUR FAVORITE DISTILLERY THAT WE VISITED! THANK YOU FOR THE HOSPITALITY!

Laura & George - Huntsville, AL

THE BOURBON IS AMAZING

-not sure it tops the people. thank you for this awesome experience.

Sarah & Jaden, Indianapolis, IN

FOOD & BAR OPEN FRIDAYS & SATURDAYS THROUGH NOVEMBER

@whiskeythief.

@WHISKEYTHIEFDISTILLING

Let's keep in touch.

UNCUT &

Whiskey Thief Distilling Co. in rural Franklin County is a celebration of single-barrel Bourbon crafted by single-batch distillation. Located on a 127-acre working farm in the heart of Kentucky, our 10-year-old distillery combines a unique thieving experience with Bluegrass hospitality for a one-of-a-kind whiskey adventure.

For Bourbon wanderlusters who know there’s nothing like uncovering a hidden gem, Whiskey Thief Distilling Co. is a destination unlike any other.

MON - THU:  10:00 AM - 5:00 PM (4:30PM LAST TOUR)

Fri - sat:  10:00 am - 5:00 pm (4:30pm last tour), sun:  11:00am - 5:00 pm (4:30pm last tour).

WHERE'S THE THIEF?

THE PRO SHOP

After you finish your Tasting & Tour, stop in the Pro Shop. Our spirits are only sold direct, on-site, including our moonshines, our Prototype Gins, and seasonal bottles.

We also hand-select spirits and exclusive single-barrel offerings from our bottling customers & partners. All that plus our own merchandise.

FROM THE LAND...

THREE BOYS FARM

Three Boys Farm Distillery is located on a 127-acre working farm in rural Franklin County, Kentucky. We grow our own corn and other grains that we use in our pot-still single distillation process.

If you are traveling through Kentucky, we are easy to find -- a half-mile north of I-64 at exit 48 (Graefenburg/Lawrenceburg exit).

ABOUT       FAQ       SHOP   

KENTUCKY'S FIRST AND ONLY THIEVE-YOUR-OWN BOURBON EXPERIENCE

The Unmissable Distillery Tours

Experience kentucky's heartbeat.

Step into the core of bourbon country, where every distillery visit is an immersion into the soul of Kentucky. Each sip isn’t merely a taste of bourbon, but a taste of time-honored stories, handed down through generations and lovingly shaped by the hands that know it best. Dive deep, explore the untold, and relish every drop of Kentucky’s iconic spirit.

Why Choose Kentucky?

Kentucky’s undulating hills, crystal-clear waters, and unmistakable seasons craft the perfect environment for world-class bourbons. Beyond the landscape lies a legacy. This state stands proud as America’s bourbon heartland, a place where age-old recipes, time-tested techniques, and unmatched passion come together.

Embark on a Kentucky Distillery Journey:

1. travel through time:.

Delve into bourbon’s rich tapestry. From its inception, through the days of prohibition, and onto its global acclaim, each distillery has a tale waiting to be shared.

2. Craftsmanship at its Finest:

From grain selection to the art of fermentation, distillation, and aging – be a witness to the magic that turns humble ingredients into bourbon brilliance.

3. Savor the Legacy:

A tour isn’t complete without immersing your senses. From the velvety caramel notes to the bold embrace of oak, unearth what makes each bourbon stand out.

4. Hear it From the Locals:

Interact with guides deeply rooted in the bourbon world, ensuring you hear tales and insights that aren’t part of the usual narrative.

Explore Our Tours

Discover the diverse world of Bourbon Town Tours. Our carefully crafted experiences immerse you in the rich heritage of Kentucky, offering expert guidance, flexible cancellations, insider tips, group-friendly options, captivating photography tours, and advanced bourbon journeys.

LOUISVILLE AREA

Angel’s envy distillery tour – louisville, kentucky, evan williams distillery tour – louisville, kentucky, stitzel-weller distillery tour – louisville, kentucky, old forester distillery tour – louisville, kentucky, rabbit hole distillery tour – louisville, kentucky, peerless distilling co. – louisville, ky, bardstown & beyond, heaven hill distillery tour – bardstown, kentucky, jim beam distillery tour – clermont, kentucky, limestone branch distillery tour – lebanon, kentucky, lux row distillery tour – bardstown, kentucky, maker’s mark distillery tour – loretto, kentucky, preservation distillery tour – bardstown, kentucky, willett distillery tour bardstown, kentucky, frankfort / lexington, buffalo trace distillery tour frankfort, kentucky, bulleit distillery tour – shelbyville, ky, castle & key distillery tour – frankfort, kentucky, four roses distillery tour – lawrenceburg, kentucky, james e. pepper distillery tour lexington, kentucky, jeptha creed distillery tour shelbyville, kentucky, whiskey thief distillery tour frankfort, kentucky, woodford reserve distillery tour versailles, kentucky, a journey crafted just for you.

Be it the seasoned bourbon lover or the curious explorer, our distillery tours cater to everyone. Solo, coupled, or with friends, a lasting memory is promised to all.

There's More to Discover

While bourbon takes center stage, Kentucky distilleries have other spirits up their sleeve. From sharp rye whiskies to playful moonshines and artisanal gins, there’s a symphony of flavors awaiting.

Seamlessly Plan Your Expedition

Securing your spot on a Kentucky distillery tour is straightforward and effortless. Opt for an extensive multi-day experience or an intimate visit to a single iconic distillery; we're here to make it happen.

Get in Touch:

Eager to set forth on this spirited sojourn? Drop us a line, and together, let’s design a moment you’ll treasure.

Kentucky is more than a state. It’s an emotion, a sentiment, particularly when bourbon is the topic. Here, distilleries aren’t mere production houses; they’re sanctuaries of tradition. On our tours, you’re not a mere visitor; you become a keeper of its legacy. So, let’s toast to the unparalleled spirit of Kentucky.

Enjoy Amazing Tours Along the Kentucky Bourbon Trail With A Great Team Of Expert Guides.

• 1-844-BOURBON / 844-268-7266
• [email protected]
• Louisville, Kentucky

Book Now, Bourbon Later.

Use our interactive maps to explore your way through the birthplace of Bourbon. No matter where you begin, you’ve made the right choice.

Handcrafted Bourbon Adventures

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• NO ALCOHOL SHIPPING. NO SHIPPING ALCOHOL! WE CAN’T SHIP ALCOHOL!! HOW MANY TIMES DO WE NEED TO SAY IT?? 25% restocking fee on any canceled order, read CAREFULLY!
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Hours of Operation

Sun. – thur.  11 am.  –  6 pm., fri. & sat.  10 am.  –  6 pm., to make a purchase only daily from 9 am. no tastings until open time, walk-ins welcome during hours of operation..

A little different…a lot better.

A pot distilled, hand-crafted, single barrel, barrel strength bourbon that has no equal on the market

From Old Crow to GCD

David Meier, the owner of Glenns Creek Distilling, has always had a love for where things are made, how they are made, and the level of craftsmanship that went into their making. This love of creation was one of the driving forces behind his career in manufacturing and his yearning to create something of his own.

VISITOR EXPERIENCE

Glenns creek distillery, “a little different, a lot better.”, bourbon without the bs..

As we get older, and Dave and John are older,  we recognize BS when we see it and we avoid products and services attempting to BS us.  Hopefully, we offer you our pot distilled Bourbon and you decide IF they are good. Seems to have worked for us so far. Come see, try our products and decide for yourself.

KAYAK’s Frankfort Travel Guide

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Our Distilleries

Immerse yourself, experience the artistry in our craft.

When you visit our award-winning distilleries you will see, smell, taste and hear how our spirits are made. You’ll learn of our history and the heritage of our craft. You’ll witness the science, technology and artistry of distilling in the adept hands of our world-class teams.

New Orleans, Louisiana

The sazerac house.

Your experience at The Sazerac House will be one part history, two parts interactive exhibits, a mixture of spirited events and a dash of rich New Orleans culture. Plan a visit to experience distinctive tastes and traditions that can only be found in the Big Easy. This is where the past, present and future come together. Try the famous Sazerac cocktail which was invented nearby by the industrious innovators of the 1800s.

Complimentary 1-hour tours are held throughout the day.

Online reservations for tours is required.

101 Magazine St. New Orleans, LA 70130

Phone: (504) 910-0100

Tuesday – Saturday 1:00 pm to 6:00 pm

Segonzac, France

Domaine sazerac de segonzac.

Sazerac has returned to its 1640 roots with our own cognac estate and distillery. The picturesque Domaine Sazerac de Segonzac is set amongst 220 acres of beautiful, historic, organically cultivated vineyards in the very heart of the Cognac region of France. You’ll visit our 18th century farm buildings and statuesque 19th century mansion which we are preserving with traditional artisanal methods. On the rolling, chalky slopes of the Grande Champagne, cognac’s “premier cru,” we are recreating tastes unique to our Domaine by merging our historic traditions and rare vines with the most advanced technologies resulting in our unique Sazerac de Forge & Fils Cognac.

Franklin County, Kentucky

Buffalo trace distillery.

For over 200 years, Buffalo Trace Distillery has been defined by its dedication to a single craft: the making of fine bourbon whiskey. Buffalo Trace Distillery has earned its place of prominence among the legendary spirit makers of the world through its dedication to “honoring tradition and embracing change.” Your experience will take you back in time and increase your understanding of how great whiskeys are made. It’s no wonder Buffalo Trace Distillery has been recognized as the Distiller and Visitor Attraction of the Year multiple times, as it is a place not to be missed in a lifetime.

We offer 7 different complimentary tours onsite: The Trace Tour, Hard Hat Tour, National Historic Landmark Tour, Bourbon Barrel Tour, Ghost Tour, E.H. Taylor Tour and The Expansion Tour. 

Online reservations for distillery tours required.

113 Great Buffalo Trace Frankfort, KY 40601

Phone: (866) 729-3722

Tour times vary based on tour. Monday - Saturday: 10 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Sunday: 11:30 a.m – 4:30 p.m.

The Trace Tour leaves every hour, on the hour or more frequently as needed.

MONTRÉAL, CANADA

Old montréal distillery.

On a visit to Old Montréal Distillery you’ll experience the fine art of blending. Our facility dates back to 1929 with an illustrious legacy of spirits innovation. We’re located near the Old Port with a stunning view of the city skyline and the majestic Mont Royal in the background. Montréal’s status as the epicenter of the Canadian Whisky industry was firmly established by the mid-20th century due to the success of legendary Master Blender Sam Bronfman of the Seagram company. Bronfman passed his knowledge directly to Seagram Master Blender Art Dawe who in turn passed it to our Master Blender Drew Mayville. The lineage continues unbroken. At Old Montréal Distillery we are reinventing Canadian whisky as we take the science of distilling and the art of blending to an exciting new level.

Bardstown, Kentucky

Barton 1792 distillery.

Barton 1792 Distillery was established in 1879 and continues today as the oldest fully-operational Distillery in Bardstown, Kentucky. Home of the 2020 Best Whiskey in the World by Jim Murray, Barton 1792 Distillery is situated in the Bourbon Capital of the World at the heart of bourbon country. With 196 glorious acres, 29 aging warehouses, an impressive still house, and many other unique buildings, the Distillery was built around the pristine Tom Moore Spring. Named in honor of the year Kentucky became the 15th state, this Distillery represents tradition, sophistication and determination.

501 Cathedral Manor 

Bardstown, KY 40004

Phone: (866) 239-4690

Monday – Saturday 9:00 am – 4:30 pm

Fredericksburg, Virginia

A. smith bowman distillery.

In 1934 A. Smith Bowman built a distillery on his family farm in Fairfax County and turned it into a remarkable enterprise. With the help of his two sons, he began whiskey production and until the 1950s, A. Smith Bowman Distillery was the sole producer of legal whiskey in the Commonwealth of Virginia. Today, our historic, family-owned distillery has relocated to Spotsylvania County near the city of Fredericksburg, 60 miles away from its original location. Continuing to utilize traditional processes in honor of one of Virginia’s great pioneers, our Distillery has twice won the “World’s Best Bourbon” accolade at the World Whiskies Awards, solidifying us as Virginia’s Most Award-Winning Distillery.

Complimentary tours are offered every hour. 

1 Bowman Dr. Fredericksburg, VA 22408

Phone: (540) 373-4555

Monday – Saturday 10:00 am – 5:00 pm Sunday 12 pm – 5:00 pm

Paul John Distillery

Hailing from the land of empire to independence, Mr. Paul P John was caught between the rugged coast of Scotland and the various hues of India. Charting his way through the narrow lanes of Scotland to investigate the country’s distillation processes and whisky culture, it occurred to him to embrace and yield a single malt made in India not just for the Indians to relish but for the whole world to experience. The result? “The Great Indian Single Malt.”

Established in 1992, John Distilleries became a leading spirits company within less than a decade and it continues to rise to new heights. Its creation, Paul John Single Malts, was launched in the United Kingdom in 2012, and was soon laureled by whisky connoisseurs around the world. The whisky critics continue to crown Paul John Single Malts with innumerable global awards, as consumers embrace these fine whiskies.

Tour packages are available for purchase online. 

M 21, Cuncolim Industrial Area, Cuncolim, Goa - 403703. India.

Phone: +91- 74477 88979

Monday-Saturday: 11 AM to 4 PM

Closed on Sunday & Public Holidays.

Sazerac Brands

Globally Spirited

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101 Magazine Street

New Orleans, LA 70130

The Kentucky Distilled Experience Tour eight top bourbon distilleries, breweries, and wineries around Frankfort

Frankfort is full of natural charm and beauty, overflowing with rich history and culture.  The city offers rolling hills, a winding river, and beautiful architecture. We believe Frankfort embodies everything that makes Kentucky special.  But, to truly understand her essence, let’s first explore her spirits. 

Buffalo Trace Distillery

Castle and Key Distillery

Glenn’s Creek Distilling

Three Boys Farm Distillery

Goodwood Brewery

Sig Luscher Brewery

West Sixth Brewery Farm

Prodigy Vineyards & Winery

Frankfort/Franklin County Tourist & Convention Commission 300 Saint Clair St., Suite 102 Frankfort, KY 40601

800-960-7200 502-875-8687

Tours & Tastings

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

Woodford Reserve's Path to Flavor Tour

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

Spectacle for the Senses Tasting

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

VIP Master Distiller Tour Experience

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

Innovation Inspired Tour and Tasting

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

Mixology Experience

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

From the Reserve: A Curated Cocktail Experience

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

Derby 150 Bottle Signing Event

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

Make a Mint Julep - Cocktail Class

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

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

WHERE ARE YOU SHIPPING?

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

• Old Rip Van Winkle 10 year
• Van Winkle Special Reserve
• Pappy Van Winkle’s Family Reserve 15 year
• Pappy Van Winkle’s Family Reserve 20 year
• Pappy Van Winkle’s Family Reserve 23 year
• Van Winkle Family Reserve Rye
• Shop Dry Goods
• Buy the Pappy Book
• Buy the Pappyland Book

pappy’s philosophy

“Always fine bourbon” was one man’s drive, and has lived through four generations.

a letter from the van winkle family

We are frequently asked why our whiskey is so hard to find. It’s difficult to put a finger on just one or two particular reasons, but here are a few things that have led to the popularity and scarcity of our whiskey.

First, the whiskey is very good. When something is good, you naturally tell others about it. Word of mouth is priceless.

In the early nineties we received a very high rating from the Chicago Beverage Testing Institute . That led to receiving many awards from tasting competitions by beverage magazines both here and abroad. Even celebrity chefs have touted our whiskey as being their favorite. That type of advertising is something we could never afford, but it has certainly contributed to our brand becoming a cult phenomenon. For that we are grateful.

Another contributing factor was joining the Sazerac/Buffalo Trace family. This merger spread knowledge of our brand way beyond Kentucky and into other major markets.

One last thing to know is that, unfortunately, some retailers choose to use this demand as a reason to increase their pricing. We know it’s often sold for far beyond our suggested retail prices, which you can find on the product pages of this site.

We greatly appreciate all of our fans and your support. We hope that you have the chance to try some of our fine whiskey for yourself.

Read an additional statement from the Van Winkles

meet the rest of our family

Each of our whiskeys tells its own story. Some long, some short, but all fine stories.

At the Old Rip Van Winkle Distillery, we kindly remind everyone to drink responsibly, and ask that only individuals of legal drinking age enter this site.

Our Story Is Best Told With All Five Senses

Spirit shipping now available to Kentucky, DC, Nebraska, New Hampshire, North Dakota, and select military bases.

Explore our historic grounds, learn how we set the standard of excellence in spirits and hospitality, and take in the beauty that Castle & Key is known for.

You don’t need a ticket to sit in a chair and listen to the creek. Enjoy the beauty of our historic grounds, including the Springhouse, Botanical Trail, and Glenns Creek with a cocktail in hand.

Elevate your guest’s experience with any of our one-of-a-kind venue spaces, designed to leave both you and your attendees speechless and ready to come back for more.

A Complete Guide to the Kentucky Bourbon Trail

Everything you need to know to sample your way around the land of wild turkey and maker’s mark..

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The Kentucky Bourbon Trail extends throughout the Bluegrass State from big cities to historic hamlets like Bardstown, which has been dubbed the Bourbon Capital of the World.

Photo by Jason Busa/Shutterstock

For whiskey lovers, the Kentucky Bourbon Trail is a bucket-list trip, full of opportunities to visit distilleries and learn about bourbon—plus, of course, plenty of sampling along the way.

Kentucky is the spiritual home of bourbon, an American whiskey made with at least 51 percent corn and aged in new, charred, white oak barrels. That said, many Kentucky distilleries also make other types of whiskey (like rye or American single malts) or other types of spirits. But if you’re headed to Kentucky, it’s a safe bet that you’ll find plenty of bourbon, first and foremost—including some pours you can’t find anywhere else. Here’s how to navigate the world of Kentucky bourbon.

What is the Kentucky Bourbon Trail?

The official Kentucky Bourbon Trail exists under the auspices of the Kentucky Distillers’ Association (who have trademarked the phrase), and it includes 18 distilleries, as well as 32 smaller distilleries designated as the “ Kentucky Bourbon Trail Craft Tour. ” This official trail doesn’t necessarily include every bourbon producer in the state. But it’s still a pretty comprehensive overview, and the KBT provides a useful way to organize a visit—including a website with plenty of maps and links. Those who prefer a hard-copy guide can purchase a Bourbon Trail Passport & Field Guide ($15) with similar info. Kentucky’s bourbon distilleries are sprawled across the state, with most of them within about 100 miles from Louisville, the logical starting point for the journey.

How long to spend

It’s possible to visit a good number of the best-known distilleries within three or four days. Most visitors use Louisville as a home base, spending a day or two exploring the city’s “Whiskey Row” and other distilleries within city limits. From there, it makes sense to drive about an hour east toward Lexington, perhaps visiting Wild Turkey, Four Roses, and Woodford Reserve, before returning to Louisville. The following day, head southbound toward Loretto, home of Maker’s Mark, stopping at Bardstown and its distilleries along the way. Expect to spend an hour or two at each distillery; visiting two or three distilleries a day is a realistic pace.

Quite a few are located farther afield, in more rural areas, meaning more travel time is necessary to get there. (Green River, in Owensboro, is furthest removed; it’s even in a different time zone, though it’s only about 100 miles from Louisville.)

For people who want to visit all 18 distilleries, the KBT recommends at least four days. However, a week to nine days might make for a more relaxed and enjoyable experience, particularly for those who want to visit craft distilleries along the way or make a detour to explore surrounding areas.

In addition, the KBT recommends at least a week to visit the Kentucky Craft Distillery circuit; many of the facilities are near the core KBT distilleries or en route. It’s worth doing a little advance planning and mapping to maximize visits.

The Kentucky Bourbon Trail consists of numerous well-known distilleries—and plenty of lesser-known spots equally worth a visit.

Courtesy of @GoToLouisville@GoToLouisville

Which distilleries are on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail?

There are 18 KBT distilleries —it’s essentially a who’s who of the bourbon names you’ll spot at a well-stocked bar or liquor store:

• Angel’s Envy
• Bardstown Bourbon Co.
• Evan Williams
• Four Roses Distillery ; Four Roses Warehouse & Bottling (two different locations)
• Green River
• Heaven Hill
• James B. Beam
• Maker’s Mark
• Old Forester
• Rabbit Hole
• Stitzel-Weller
• Town Branch
• Wild Turkey
• Wilderness Trail
• Woodford Reserve

How to get around

Within Louisville, it’s easy to reach distilleries on foot or via taxis or rideshares. Beyond city limits, you need a car to get around; particularly in more rural areas, ridesharing isn’t always available. To delegate the transportation and/or planning, consider booking tours with a company like the famous Mint Julep or Pegasus Distillery Tours . They’ll shuttle you or your group around; many of the tours focus on specific interests, like culinary or horse farm tours, or offer VIP access to tastings or other experiences. However you’re getting around, don’t drink and drive.

How to plan a distillery visit

Planning ahead is strongly encouraged. Many distilleries are closed during the week (most often Monday and/or Tuesday), and hours may vary, so check a distillery’s website before heading out. (Also: Note that part of Kentucky is in the Central time zone, so you may need to factor that in.) For those traveling with kids: Some places welcome all ages, while others are limited to those 21 years old and over.

Do you need reservations for the Kentucky Bourbon Trail?

Not always, but it helps, particularly during the peak summer and fall tourist seasons. That said, many tours are reservation only and charge a fee. Most cost around $25, but that can range much higher when special bottlings or cocktails are involved, and they tend to run about 60 to 90 minutes.

In general, visiting two or three distilleries in a day is plenty. Most tours cover the same “how-bourbon-is-made” info, and especially if you’re sampling, it all starts to add up. But it’s well worth it for bourbon fans looking to learn about America’s native whiskey and snap up hard-to-find bottles to add to a collection.

The historic Old Forester Distilling Co. is one of the major stops on Louisville’s Whiskey Row.

Photo by Joseph Hendrickson/Shutterstock

Start in Louisville

Louisville is ideal as a home base for a bourbon tour: In addition to distillery experiences available within city limits, it’s also relatively central to Lexington, Clermont, and Bardstown and has plenty of appealing bars, restaurants, and cultural attractions.

Start with Whiskey Row, which is home to Michter’s Fort Nelson Distillery (and its top-notch bar), Old Forester Distilling (keep an eye out for special whiskey drops here), and Angel’s Envy . From there, the NuLu district offers the modern design of Rabbit Hole Distillery and its second-floor Overlook bar, with drinks by the Death & Co. team. Grab a rideshare for the five-mile drive to West Louisville to tour the historic Stitzel-Weller Distillery , which opened in 1935 but had been closed to the public for many years. (Attention horse fans: The Kentucky Derby Museum is nearby.)

Among the smaller Craft Trail distilleries nearby in downtown Louisville: Kentucky Peerless Distilling Co. and Copper & Kings, an industrial-chic space that started as a brandy facility and has only recently begun producing bourbon. Look for the monarch butterfly garden out front and the rooftop restaurant/bar with sweeping city views.

When the distilleries close, continue bourbon tasting at Louisville bars like the Silver Dollar , a Bakersfield-style honky-tonk owned by whiskey expert Larry Rice; Trouble Bar , where you choose among flights curated by local experts; or the 1920s-inspired Neat Bourbon Bar & Bottle Shop .

Where to stay in Louisville

Consider a stay at Hotel Distil , a bourbon-themed hotel located in a historic building on Louisville’s “Whiskey Row”; the boutique-y 21c Museum Hotel is also home to stellar restaurant Proof on Main .

You could also try Galt House Hotel , a much larger venue with views of the Ohio River, or the genteel Brown Hotel , which dates back to 1923 and offers skyline views from the restored rooftop garden.

Day trip options from Louisville

Visit a couple of distilleries during each of these day trips with Louisville as a convenient home base, or combine them for a longer road trip. Here are a few potential options to build an itinerary.

1. Clermont

From Louisville, it’s about a 30-minute drive south to Clermont to reach James B. Beam Distilling—known for making Jim Beam, Knob Creek, and Basil Hayden, among others. They’ve been busy over at Beam: In 2022, the distillery cut the ribbon on a new $45 million “homestead experience.” The new space includes the Kitchen Table , a 5,000-square-foot restaurant and bar, and the Fred B. Noe Craft Distillery, a facility to explore new fermentation and distillation techniques.

2. Bardstown

Either starting out from Louisville or continuing on from Beam, head to Heaven Hill , the family-owned distillery that makes such legendary brands as Elijah Craig, Old Fitzgerald, and Henry McKenna, among many others. While the company’s new $200 million distillery is slated to open at the end of 2024, this remains a fine place to learn about bourbon production and snap up exclusive bottles.

See also two sleek, state-of-the-art newcomers: Lux Row Distillers and Bardstown Bourbon Company (the latter focuses on elaborate bourbon blends).

You’ll love strolling the grounds of the Maker’s Mark Distillery, which has been designated a National Historic Landmark.

Photo by Fiona Young-Brown/Shutterstock

3. Lebanon/Loretto

Maker’s Mark is on many a bourbon lover’s must-see list. Visit the distillery and tour the grounds, but don’t leave without dipping your own bottle in the iconic red wax.

This might be the endpoint of a route heading south through Clermont and/or Bardstown. Since the distillery is fairly remote from Louisville, plan to stay overnight—if possible, at the Samuels House , an Airbnb-style house rental owned by the family behind Maker’s Mark, stocked with a collection of whiskey memorabilia.

Add on a tour of the Kentucky Cooperage Visitor Center to learn how barrels are made, and see firsthand how they’re charred with a burst of flame—a key part of the bourbon-making process. (Note: You can also go directly from Louisville to Maker’s Mark by helicopter .)

4. Frankfort/Lexington

From Louisville, it’s also about an hour east to Frankfort, home of Buffalo Trace . Choose from several different themed tours of the sprawling facility, such as the “Old Taylor Tour,” which focuses on the legacy of E.H. Taylor, who revolutionized the bourbon industry; or a tour through the property’s arboretum and botanical gardens.

Continue on to Four Roses in Lawrenceburg, housed in a 1910 mission-style building, or Woodford Reserve in Versailles (pronounced “ver-sales”). Of note, Lexington, the “Horse Capital of the World,” is home to multitudes of thoroughbreds, so consider adding a horse farm tour to your itinerary.

5. Danville

About an hour south of Lexington, the picturesque Wilderness Trail Distillery is in the heart of the Bluegrass region. The distillery is a relative newcomer, having launched in 2012 and releasing its first bourbon in 2018. In that short time, it has garnered plenty of attention and is already expanding capacity. Starting with 44 acres, the distillery purchased another 124 acres in 2021, adding six new fermentation tanks and six new barrel houses.

This article originally appeared online in August 2022; it was updated most recently on April 24, 2024, to include current information.

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