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Woodford Reserve Distillery

One of the prettiest drives to a Kentucky distillery goes to Woodford Reserve. Travel past picturesque horse farms with black fences on your way to this bourbon destination.

Built on the oldest distilling site in Kentucky, these hallowed grounds now house Woodford Reserve’s trademark copper pot stills and entire bourbon operation. Traditions started by Elijah Pepper in the early 1800s continue with Master Distiller Chris Morris and the Woodford Reserve brand.

Woodford Reserve Distillery Tours

See historic spaces and learn the five elements that make up the bourbon-making process. Walk past the Scottish-style copper pot stills and see new make as it flows through. Then go inside an old bourbon barrel warehouse and smell the angel’s share in the air. The educational bourbon tour covers history, sources of flavor, bottling and more.

Mint Julep Experiences goes to Woodford Reserve for distillery tours weekly on our public tours

Woodford Reserve Bourbon Tastings

Your guided sensory tasting will help you pick out the complex flavors in each bourbon or whiskey you taste. Frequent flights includes Woodford Reserve Distiller’s Select, Rye and Double Oaked.

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Things to know about Woodford Reserve

Frequently asked questions.

Where is Woodford Reserve made?

The Woodford Reserve address is 7855 McCracken Pike in Versailles, Ky.

Who owns Woodford Reserve?

Woodford Reserve is owned by the Brown-Forman Corporation. Sister brands include Old Forester, Early Times and Coopers Craft.

What bourbons and whiskeys does Woodford Reserve produce?

Woodford Reserve Distillery makes Woodford Reserve bourbon and Woodford Reserve Rye, Malt and Wheat Whiskeys, as well as Woodford Double Oaked and Master’s Collection products.

Is Woodford Reserve on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail?

Yes, Woodford Reserve is a member of the Kentucky Bourbon Trail®.

Which distilleries are near Woodford Reserve?

Distilleries near Woodford Reserve include Wild Turkey, Buffalo Trace and Four Roses.

Where can I find out more about Woodford Reserve?

Learn about Woodford Reserve at woodfordreserve.com .

Start Planning Your Kentucky Bourbon Distillery Tour

Let’s start planning your ultimate Kentucky bourbon distillery tour today! We offer a variety of public tours as well as custom-made experiences that are tailored to your every bourbon desire.

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Bourbon Reviews, Distillery News and Information

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Woodford Reserve Distillery Tour Review

• January 30, 2024
• Distilleries , Distillery Reviews

Woodford Reserve Distillery 7785 McCracken Pike Versailles, KY 40383 859-879-1812 www.woodfordreserve.com Tour / Review

Please enjoy our Woodford Reserve Distillery Tour Review!

The Woodford Reserve Distillery

Discretely nestled among the horse farms in Woodford County Kentucky is the home of Woodford Reserve Distillery. Located just 8 miles north of Versailles, Woodford Reserve is a beautiful and unique piece of Kentucky’s distilling history. Beautiful because the original farm-distillery land continues to be some of the finest in the Bluegrass region and unique because there have been only 4 owners of the distillery since 1812.

Woodford Reserve Distillery History: Ownership Changes and Developments

Around the aforementioned time, Elijah Pepper set up his grist mill and distillery on his 200 acre farm along Glenn’s Creek. After 66 years in the Pepper family, ownership was transferred to Labrot and Graham in 1878. Although L & G made great improvements and upgrades to the business, by 1940, Prohibition had taken its toll and the distillery was sold to Brown-Forman Distillers Corporation (currently the Brown-Forman Corporation ).

Continued consumer abandonment of Kentucky’s brown spirit in the 50’s and 60’s led the company to stop distilling and eventually sell the distillery to local farmer, Freeman Hockensmith, in 1973. Hockensmith used the property mostly for agricultural storage, but also made a brief attempt at producing fuel alcohol. Renewed interest in creating a premium bourbon drove the Brown-Forman Corporation to repurchase the aged Labrot & Grahman distillery for the second time in 1994. After a total rehabilitation of the buildings and the addition of a brand new Visitor Center, the distillery opened to the public in 1996.

Woodford Reserve Distillery Tours and Tastings

The distillery’s designation as a National Historic Landmark in 2002 was well deserved. A tour of the distillery solidifies this distinction. There are a variety of tours and tasting available at Woodford. “ Woodford Reserve’s Path To Flavor ” tour is the most popular. This 70 minute experience includes a walking tour of the distillery, as well as a tasting of Woodford’s whiskeys. The cost is $32. If you don’t have time for a 70 minute experience, then opt for “ The Spectacle For The Senses Tasting “. This 45 minute guided tasting costs $25 and includes five samples of Woodford’s family of whiskeys paired with lite bites.

Additional Tour Information

Woodford Reserve Distillery also offers a variety of other tours and tastings, including special ones that may be available for a limited time. The current experiences include:

• VIP Master Distiller Tour Experience – Two-hour behind-the-scenes tour and tasting with Master Distiller Emeritus Chris Morris and/or Master Distiller Elizabeth McCall – Very Limited – $500 (includes limited edition bottle)
• Innovation Inspired Tour and Tasting – 70 minute tour with an elevated tasting and the opportunity to purchase an allocated whiskey – Friday & Saturdays Only – $125
• Mixology Experience – 45 minute experience in Woodford Reserve Distillery’s Cocktail Lounge where guests learn to make various classic cocktails and their history; guests receive a souvenir rocks glass, recipes for all of the signature Woodford Reserve cocktails and bourbon balls – $50
• From the Reserve: A Curated Cocktail Experience – Guests explore crafting luxury cocktails with rare whiskeys from Woodford’s curated archival collection and receive a souvenir Double Old Fashioned tumbler – limited – Saturdays only – $150
• Indulge The Senses Experience – a tasting of special chocolates, bourbons & a cocktail – February 2024 only, Wednesday-Sundays – $40
• The Perfect Pair – similar to the Indulge The Senses Experience, but led by Master Distiller Elizabeth McCall, and includes a gift pack of Double Oaked, Double Double Oaked and Compartes Chocolates to take home with you – Very Limited February 14 & 15 only – $250

Tour Times And Locations

All experiences (unless otherwise noted) begin at the Visitor Center which is located on the south side of McCracken Pike. Generally, there is ample parking, even during the very busy summer months, as there is a second lot available across the road on the north side of McCracken Pike. Tours and tastings (except as noted above) are offered Wednesday-Sunday as of January 2024. However they will be offered 7 days a week for the weeks of March 3rd & 10th, and then every week beginning in April 2024. For the most up to date distillery hours, tour times, and tour availability, visit woodfordreserve.com .

Tour Experience

On our visit, we took “Woodford Reserve’s Path To Flavor” tour. We met our tour guide, Jaime, inside the Visitor Center and after his introduction and short safety spiel, we headed outside and down the softly sloped pathway toward the distillery. This is a walking tour, but very easy, with minimal stairs. Along the way Jamie covered much of the history of Woodford Reserve Distillery from its owners to its many buildings.

Upon entering the distillery proper through the fermentation room, we learned that portions of the building date back to 1838. While in the fermentation room, Jamie discussed Woodford’s mashing process and their 5 sources of flavor (Grain, Water, Fermentation, Distillation, Maturation). Although the eight 7500 gallon cypress fermenters might look really old, they are not. Half were put in when the distillery opened in the 90’s while the others came later as production grew.

Distillation and Barreling

After our stop in fermentation, we moved on to the still area in the next room. Woodford triple distills its product, which explained the 3 beautiful copper pot stills we saw. As Jamie explained Woodford’s triple pot distillation process, we had plenty of time to view the amazing equipment and take a plethora of pictures. Interestingly, barreling takes place in the same room. The freshly distilled new make is sent to the nearby 1400 gallon gauge tank. This tank is used to proof down the spirit from 125 proof to its barrel entry proof of 110. Barrels were being filled while we were in the still area, so we were able to see in action how Woodford moves their barrels.

Barrel Run and Warehouse C

With the distillery lesson complete, we headed back outside to view the almost nine decades old barrel run. Built in 1934, Woodford Reserve Distillery’s barrel run is over 500 feet in length and helps to expedite barrel movement to the warehouses for their long rest. Once a barrel is filled in the distillery, it is moved out of the building via a rail system. The newly filled barrel moves through a window type exit on 2 rails. These two rails are spaced perfectly apart so that the barrels run the rails without needing a worker present. That’s definitely working smarter, not harder, as a full 53 gallon barrel weighs around 500 lbs.

While it’s hard to top the active barrel run, the next point of interest, Warehouse C, was a close second. Right across the way from the distillery, Warehouse C is Woodford’s oldest active barrel warehouse. This beautiful stone building was completed over 100 years ago and still houses around 5000 barrels. The smell of the angels’ share is delicious. Another interesting note Jamie made is that Woodford heats the warehouse in the winter from the bottom up so that the lower level barrels achieve the same heated aging as the upper level barrels do in the summer. Once again, they’re working smarter, not harder at Woodford.

Bottling Facility

As we left Warehouse C behind, a quick stop was made at the building next door. This Is Woodford’s bottling facility. It’s the second 100 year old plus building still in use on the property. Bottling takes place Monday-Friday and Woodford bottles all of its own products. Due to pandemic restrictions, we just got a peek at the process through a screened door. There were plenty of barrels and bottles swapping juice.

Tasting Experience

Having covered Woodford Reserve Distillery’s bourbon making process from start to finish, the only thing left to do now was taste. Jamie led the way to Dryer House which is where our tour’s tasting took place. It’s a very short distance from the distillery as well as Warehouse C. In the 1930’s the Dryer House replaced the open cattle feed station which received the spent grain from the distillery. The Slop Dryer house instead allowed the used grains to be piped in from the distillery, dried out, and then recycled as livestock feed. While livestock still enjoy the grains as feed, today’s Dryer House does not house slop, but instead, some very tasty spirits.

Our tour’s tasting consisted of 4 products: the Woodford Reserve Bourbon, the Woodford Malt Whiskey, the Woodford Reserve Rye, and a very special taste not bottled, the Woodford Reserve Bourbon straight from the barrel. The tasting lasted no more than about 15 minutes. Jamie led the way, providing guidance particularly for those who are new to tasting whiskey. The final treat was the Woodford Reserve bourbon ball. These are most delightful. Even better is that all samples, except for the straight from the barrel, are available for purchase in the gift shop. With the tasting completed, our tour had come to an end and so we headed back up the pathway to the visitor’s center.

Shopping and Conclusion

After some shopping in the very spacious and well stocked gift shop, our time at Woodford came to a close. Woodford Reserve Distillery is indeed a lovely place to visit. Due to its close proximity to Lexington and Frankfort however, tours are often booked well in advance, particularly on weekends. Don’t let that be a deterrent because its history and grounds alone are worth the trip. Visit Woodford’s outside bar, enjoy your favorite Woodford spirit, and then sit back and relax on the scenic patio soaking in all the rustic ambiance your senses can handle. Woodford Reserve is a must see for the history lover and the bourbon geek alike!

We hope you have enjoyed our Woodford Reserve Distillery Tour Review! If you would like to read about a couple of Woodford’s whiskeys, then check out our Woodford Double Double Oaked Review and our Woodford Three Grain Whiskey Review ! You can also check out our video virtual tour of the Woodford Reserve Distillery !

*NOTE: While the whiskey distilled at the Woodford Reserve Distillery is triple pot still distilled, whiskey distilled in column stills at Brown-Forman’s large Louisville distillery is also used in many of the Woodford Reserve whiskeys.

Original Visit Date: June 2021; Updated January 2024

Would you like to learn more about distilleries and bourbon? Are you planning a trip to Kentucky Distilleries? Maybe you would like to live the bourbon life vicariously through us?? If any of these are true, then check out BourbonObsessed.com today!

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The 6 Best Distilleries to Visit in Lexington, Kentucky

TripSavvy / Taylor McIntyre

When people think of Kentucky, they think of whiskey, but not just any whiskey. This is bourbon country—and Kentucky's legacy is well-earned. There are more whiskey barrels in Kentucky than there are people, with more than 11.4 million barrels of the brown stuff—according to the Kentucky Distillers' Association—compared to just over 4.5 million people. People from all over come to experience the famous Kentucky Bourbon Trail, and Lexington is an integral stop along that trail. There are eight distilleries in Lexington proper, including the renowned Woodford Reserve and smaller family-run distilleries, and a dozen more nearby. Here are six of the best distilleries in Lexington.

James E. Pepper Distillery

This Lexington staple first began distilling in 1779 during the American Revolution. However, it shut down during the 1960s when the bourbon industry experienced a recession. In 2017, the brand was able to reopen in its original home distillery, which is located in the now popular distillery district. You can tour the site and taste their award-winning "1776" rye whiskey. It's also a great location to check out other local spots like Ethereal Brewing and Crank and Boom Ice Cream, which are both next door.

Woodford Reserve

Courtesy of Woodford Reserve

Woodford Reserve is perhaps the most well-known distillery out of Lexington. This site began distilling back in 1812 and is now considered a National Historic Landmark. Now that Woodford has perfected making bourbon, this distillery focuses its future on making the practice more sustainable. More than 98 percent of all waste material is recycled, 10 acres of land are dedicated to native species conservation, and 97 percent of all food scraps are composted. This tour takes guests through the past and future of bourbon distilling and allows them to taste all their favorites along the way.

Buffalo Trace Distillery

Located in Frankfort, Buffalo Trace is one of the most popular distillery tours in the Lexington area, and it's easy to see why. As one of the oldest continuously running operations in the country (one of the few that lasted through prohibition), Buffalo Trace is also unique in that it keeps the mash for its products top secret. (However, the distillery's website has a simulator for guests to make up their own mash and test out different combinations.) While Buffalo Trace is their flagship brand, the distillery is also home to several other well-known brands, including cult-favorite Van Winkle, Sazerac Rye, and E.H. Taylor.

Town Branch Distillery

Courtesy of Lexington Brewing and Distilling Company

Town Branch Distillery is a part of the larger Lexington Brewing and Distilling Company. So if you’re not the biggest fan of whiskey or just craving something different between all your bourbon tastings, you can explore the brewery side! It’s one of the few distilleries in the world that doubles as a brewery. With seven beers available year-round (and five seasonally) and eight other liquors, everyone will find a favorite beverage. Town Branch is also located in downtown Lexington, making it one of the most accessible distilleries to visit.

Castle & Key Distillery

Castle & Key might be one of the newer distilleries in Lexington, but the brand itself holds important bourbon history. Formerly the Old Taylor Distillery, the ruins included limestone castle and old railroad tracks left abandoned and falling apart until 2014. The new owners have refurbished the historic buildings and created an outdoor space that is free and open to all visitors. This back patio sits along a river and includes a botanical walk and a bar serving up Castle and Key cocktails. The Manhattan comes highly recommended!

Four Roses Distillery

Courtesy of Four Roses Distillery

Four Roses is a veteran in the distilling world, making whiskey since 1888. It's unique because it's the only distillery with five different yeast strains and two different mashes, ultimately coming together in 10 different bourbon recipes, later mixed by hand to create their flagship bourbon. Four Roses offer tours that take guests through their complex process and a visitor center where you can enjoy a tasting or a Four Roses original cocktail. 

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Woodford Reserve Distillery Tour Versailles, Kentucky

Woodford reserve distillery tour: immersing yourself in kentucky’s bourbon heritage.

Experience the essence of Kentucky’s bourbon tradition with the Woodford Reserve Distillery Tour. Situated amidst the picturesque landscapes of Kentucky’s bourbon country, Woodford Reserve is not just a distillery; it’s a symbol of bourbon craftsmanship and culture. This tour invites both die-hard bourbon enthusiasts and curious newcomers to explore the rich history, meticulous craft, and unique flavors that define Woodford Reserve.

Discover the Legacy Woodford Reserve Distillery Tour

Your journey begins with an exploration of Woodford Reserve’s storied past. Learn about the distillery’s roots in Kentucky’s bourbon history, its heritage buildings, and how it has emerged as a globally acclaimed bourbon producer. The tour delves into the distillery’s traditional methods that have been passed down through generations, maintaining the essence of classic bourbon making.

A Deep Dive into Bourbon Production

Experience the art of bourbon making in an immersive way. The tour takes you through each step of the production process: selecting the finest grains, the intricacies of the sour mash process, the science behind fermentation, the traditional copper pot distillation, and the art of aging in new charred oak barrels. Witness how Woodford Reserve’s commitment to quality at every stage culminates in a bourbon of exceptional depth and character.

Tasting the Distinctive Woodford Reserve Bourbon

The highlight for many is the tasting session, where you’ll savor the rich flavors of Woodford Reserve’s bourbons. Guided by experts, these tastings help you identify the unique notes and aromas that make up Woodford Reserve’s signature profile. This session offers an appreciation for the subtleties that a premium bourbon can offer, from its complex nose to its long, smooth finish.

Exploring the Idyllic Distillery Grounds

The Woodford Reserve Distillery is set against the backdrop of Kentucky’s beautiful, rolling hills. Part of the tour involves a walk around the property, allowing visitors to enjoy the natural beauty that surrounds the distillery. This serene setting is an integral part of the bourbon’s identity, reflecting the harmony of nature and craftsmanship.

Sustainability and Craftsmanship

Learn about Woodford Reserve’s initiatives in sustainability and how they blend traditional craftsmanship with modern techniques. The tour showcases the distillery’s efforts to maintain eco-friendly practices, emphasizing its responsibility towards the environment while producing high-quality bourbon.

Interactive and Educational Experience

The Woodford Reserve Distillery Tour is designed to be both educational and interactive, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of bourbon making. It’s an opportunity to ask questions, engage with experienced distillers, and gain insights into the nuanced world of bourbon.

Special Editions and Distillery Exclusives

Discover Woodford Reserve’s special editions and distillery-exclusive releases. These limited offerings are a testament to the distillery’s innovative spirit, providing visitors with the chance to experience rare and unique expressions of bourbon.

Events and Community Involvement

Woodford Reserve is not just a producer of fine bourbon; it’s a vibrant part of the local community. The tour includes information about the distillery’s involvement in local events, culinary experiences, and cultural activities that celebrate Kentucky’s bourbon heritage.

A Must-Experience Kentucky Tradition The Woodford Reserve Distillery Tour offers an authentic immersion into the world of Kentucky bourbon. It’s more than just a tour; it’s an experience that connects you with the heart and soul of bourbon country, offering deep insights into one of America’s most cherished spirits.

Are you ready to embrace the spirit of Kentucky’s bourbon culture? Book your Woodford Reserve Distillery Tour now and step into a world where tradition meets excellence. Whether you’re a bourbon aficionado or eager to learn, this tour promises a memorable journey filled with rich flavors, history, and the beauty of Kentucky. Join us at Woodford Reserve, where every visit is more than a tour – it’s an experience to cherish. Reserve your spot today for an unforgettable journey into the heart of bourbon country!

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Woodford Reserve Straight Rye Whiskey – Woodford Reserve Distillery

Woodford Reserve Wheat Whiskey – Woodford Reserve Distillery

Woodford Reserve Bourbon – Woodford Reserve Distillery

Woodford Reserve Double Oaked – Woodford Reserve Distillery

Woodford Reserve Straight Malt Whiskey – Woodford Reserve Distillery

Vacation starts with our tours around kentucky, enjoy amazing tours along the kentucky bourbon trail with a great team of expert guides..

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The 22 Best Things To Do In Lexington, Kentucky

Whether you go for the bourbon trail, horse country, or a city getaway, Lexington is perfectly placed.

Explore Horse Country

Follow the bourbon trail, check out the city, where to eat, where to stay, make a rural pitstop.

Getty Images/Chris Boswell

It's easy to overlook Lexington at first, in the shadow of Louisville, which gets most of the attention thanks to the  Kentucky Derby and Whiskey Row. Yet, Lexington quietly enjoys the spoils of being a thriving town set in the ecologically stunning Kentucky landscape. From  bourbon distilleries  and horse racing to breezy Bluegrass hills and a vibrant downtown, you're never short on places to explore and local businesses to duck into. Lexington is perfectly placed for a getaway with so many activities to put on your list, no matter if you go during the blooming spring, colorful autumn, or snowy winter.

 Here are the best things to do on your next trip to Lexington, Kentucky.

Tour Keeneland Race Track

Dubbed a National Historic Landmark, Keeneland has helped keep the tradition of Thoroughbred racing alive for over eight decades. Moreover, the lush grounds are expertly crafted and kept up and worth a visit on their own. Year-round, you can book a morning tour that shows the early training sessions, as well as teaches guests about the history of Keeneland and thoroughbred racing.

keeneland.com , 4201 Versailles Rd, Lexington, KY 40510

Attend the Keeneland Races

The horse-racing events in Kentucky are set apart from other sporting events due to the pomp and circumstance that surrounds them. Spectators are expected to dress to the nines—hats, ascots, and all—to sip on mint juleps and bet on quirky-named horses. At Keeneland, you can plan a visit during the Spring Meet or Fall Meet.

Visit a Retirement Home for Racehorses

At Old Friends , a retirement farm for Thoroughbreds whose careers have ended, Michael Blowen gives racehorses the best kind of Kentucky retirement. When Blowen decided to start a retirement farm for racehorses, people were skeptical. "They all thought I was nuts," he says. Today, Blowen oversees three farms that serve as the residence for 260 retired or elderly horses. You can visit the main facility at Dream Chase Farm in Georgetown, Kentucky, and get the chance to meet past champion horses.

oldfriendsequine.org , 1841 Paynes Depot Rd, Georgetown, KY 40324

Reserve a Tour at Famed Horse Farms

Prestigious operations such as  Claiborne Farm ,  Spy Coast Farm , and  Ashford Stud  (home of Triple Crown winners American Pharoah and Justify) offer a fleeting glimpse into a largely exclusive world. You're able to book public group tours ahead of time, and therefore craft your own itinerary. During the tours, expect to learn the history of often generational horse farms, meet past champion horses, and take in the scenic views.

Take Advantage of Kentucky Horse Park

Opened in 1978, the Kentucky Horse Park is the world’s only park dedicated to teaching people about horses and helping take care of and showcase the majestic animals. During most of the year, the park is home to up to 100 horses representing more than 25 different breeds. While you can explore the museum, visitor's center, and horse stalls, there is no better way to immerse yourself in horse culture than embarking on the guided 35-minute trail ride, which is suitable for first-time riders and takes you along the outskirts of the park.

kyhorsepark.com , 4089 Iron Works Pkwy, Lexington, KY 40511

Tour the Reader-Voted "South's Best Distillery"

There are 46 stops that make up the  Kentucky Bourbon Trail , but amongst the many options, make sure to plan a visit to what our readers previously voted the "South's Best:" The Woodford Reserve Distillery . The official bourbon of the Kentucky Derby, Woodford Reserve has garnered icon status since its founding in 1812, and even still uses a track system from the 1800s to roll barrels into the warehouses. Tours include bourbon tastings, and a visit to the Woodford Reserve Welcome Center comes with excellent cocktails and expert pours, as well as sweeping views from the veranda.

woodfordreserve.com , 7785 McCracken Pike, Versailles, KY 40383

Taste More Than Just Bourbon

Beyond just bourbon, there are some distilleries offering a unique range of distilled products.  Castle & Key Distillery , located half an hour from downtown Lexington in Frankfort, also offers tastings of its in-house gin and vodka that will appeal to those who don't prefer bourbon. Make sure to roam the gorgeous grounds that once housed the Old Taylor Distillery, a romantic castle built in the 1800s.

castleandkey.com , 4445 McCracken Pike, Frankfort, KY 40601

Explore More Well-Known Bourbon Legends

Fortunately, there is a distillery for practically every taste here. Heirloom distilleries such as Buffalo Trace and Maker's Mark are sure-fire delights for a bourbon lover. The  Maker’s Mark distillery is exactly what you hope a bourbon distillery will look like: a large black barn with cherry red shutters, the old homestead (now a visitors center) tucked beneath shade trees, landscaped paths, and a trickling stream named Whisky Creek. In downtown Frankfort, not far from Lexington, Buffalo Trace feels like an industrial frontier town, with most of the buildings on the 118-acre campus built before Prohibition.

Pay Visits to Small-Batch Bourbon Makers

Luckily, the industry hasn't stopped at the big names. Embark on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail Craft Tour to hit unique and newer small-batch labels with fresh perspectives. There are 28 stops to choose from, including Bluegrass Distillers which has a downtown Lexington location available for visits. For those hitting the road, family-run  Brough Brothers Distillery —the first Black-owned microdistillery in Kentucky—offers tasting and tours in the Park Hill area of Louisville, only a little over an hour's drive away from Lexington.

Spend an Evening in the Distillery District

The  Distillery District —housed in the Historic James E. Pepper Distillery, which had previously sat abandoned for five decades—is now the place to go to have a little tour of everything that Lexington has to offer, including working bourbon distilleries, restaurants, bars, and shops. Make a stop at the Barrel House Distillery , a craft distiller on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail; try authentic Kentucky burgoo at the Elkhorn Tavern ; and listen to music at Manchester Music Hall , which is located in the circa-1800s bourbon warehouse of Old Tarr Distillery.

lexingtondistillerydistrict.com , 1228 Manchester St, Lexington, KY 40504

If You Haven't, Try Ale-8

Ale-8-One—called Ale-8 for short—is a gingery, citrusy soft drink that tastes like a crisper, more mellowed take on ginger beer, and it's the only Kentucky-invented soft drink still being produced. The first batches were bottled in 1926, making it over 90 years old. Head to the downtown rooftop of  Belle's Cocktail House , and order a "bourbon & Ale-8."

bellesbar.com , 156 Market St, Lexington, KY 40507

Explore Downtown Lexington

Downtown Lexington has plenty of entertainment to spend a day exploring. On weekends, stop by the Lexington Farmers' Market. Peep the many murals throughout the city blocks. Head to The Square —a block of renovated Victorian-style buildings—to see the art scene at  Plymale Gallery ,  Main Cross Gallery , and the  Artist Attic . On the same block as the 21c Museum Hotel is  Bourbon on Rye , a modish take on a moody bourbon bar, where some truly well-versed bartenders will happily guide you without breaking the bank.

Enjoy Southern Cuisine at Dudley's On Short

A Lexington institution for nearly 40 years, Dudley's On Short is the perfect spot to grab a Southern-inspired upscale lunch or dinner, located in a circa-1880s bank. No meal is complete without "Dudley's Eggs," which are the perfect deviled egg bites to split. The brunch-and-lunch menu has standout shareables, including bacon beignets and smoked trout dip.

dudleysonshort.com , 259 W Short St #125, Lexington, KY 40507

Start or End Your Day at Pearl's

A bagel shop by morning and pizza-and-wine bar by evening, Pearl's in downtown Lexington is our kind of all-day café. The breakfast bagels are hand-rolled and honey-boiled, and the wood-fired pizza is delightfully poofy and charred, perfect for sharing with family and friends with a bottle of all-natural wine, which the restaurant specializes in.

pearlspizzapie.com , 133 N Limestone, Lexington, KY 40507

Indulge in Kentucky Barbecue at Blue Door Smokehouse

You'll find the best brisket in the area at Blue Door Smokehouse , hands down. Opened in 2013 by two Lexington natives, this BBQ joint doles out sandwiches and plates piled high with the smoked meats of your choice. Ask for the "Blue Door Special" to sample all the proteins in stock on any given day.

bluedoorsmokehouse.com , 226 Walton Ave, Lexington, KY 40502

Try the Latin Cuisine at Corto Lima

This Latin-inspired restaurant is run by James Beard-nominated chef Jonathan Lundy. At Corto Lima , you can expect a mix of flavor-packed dishes, such as shrimp ceviche, adobo chicken, and rock crab empanadas. Start with a batch of guacamole and a house margarita to wash it all down.

cortolima.com , 101 W Short St, Lexington, KY 40507

Grab a Slice at Missy's Pies

A local favorite since 1989, Missy's Pies offers the best homemade slices of delectable pies in town. Flavors vary according to day and season, but look out for customer-beloved options such as the chocolate-and-peanut butter "Combo" Pie, Black Bottom Banana Pie, and Coconut Cream Pie.

missyspieshop.com , 502 E High St, Lexington, KY 40502

Courtesy 21c Museum Hotel

Stay at an Award-Winning Museum Hotel

Located in downtown Lexington, the artsy  21c Museum Hotel is housed in a historic bank building. Except now, it offers such contemporary perks as a contemporary art museum and a notable in-house restaurant,  Lockbox . Explore the exhibits between comings and goings.

21cmuseumhotels.com/lexington , 167 W Main St, Lexington, KY 40507

Stay in the Distillery District

Located in Lexington's restored Distillery District walkable to the many restaurants and shops, The Manchester feels perfectly suited to the historic and soulful nature of Lexington. The interiors' supple leather and rich, earthy tones mimic the surrounding Bluegrass hills and Kentucky Bourbon Trail distilleries. The hotel offers 125 rooms with a bespoke bottle shop, lobby bar, and two in-house dining options—Appalachian-inspired Granddam—and rooftop bar Lost Palm.

themanchesterky.com , 941 Manchester St, Lexington, KY 40508

Stay at a Hip Pet-Friendly Hotel

The Elwood Hotel is adorned with a colorful mural on the front facade, and you can expect similar energy on the inside with vibrant art and decor. The 62-room boutique hotel is also welcoming to those with pets and has an in-house restaurant. Fiddletree Kitchen & Bar, located in the lobby, is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner for indoor dining, as well as an outdoor terrace with firepits. 

theelwoodhotel.com , 444 Parkway Dr, Lexington, KY 40504

Stop for Lunch at Wallace Station Deli

Make a pit stop at  Wallace Station Deli  near Midway, one of well-known Kentucky chef Ouita Michel's places. The 15-minute drive to Wallace Station from the highway will take you past some of the area's showiest horse farms. Order one of the Inside Out Hot Browns (their take on a  classic Kentucky sandwich ) and a cold bottle of Ale-8.

wallacestation.com , 3854 Old Frankfort Pike, Versailles, KY 40383

Tour the Kentucky Castle

One of the more unique landmarks you'll come across while driving around Kentucky's bourbon trail and horse country region, the Kentucky Castle offers various experiences, including tours of the castle grounds, themed dinners, or farm days. You can even stay on the grounds for an extra magical trip.

thekentuckycastle.com , 230 Pisgah Pike, Versailles, KY 40383

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(502) 409-2537

Woodford Reserve Distillery

It is said that the art of making fine bourbon first took place on the site of The Woodford Reserve Distillery in 1812.

Two hundred years later, the distillery was designated as an official National Historic Landmark.

Although the property went through several ownership changes and was once used for agricultural storage, the Brown-Forman Corporation repurchased it in 1994.

After a total renovation of the buildings and the addition of a visitor center, the distillery opened to the public in 1996.

Contact us today to add Woodford to your custom trail tour .

Types of Tours at Woodford Reserve

There are five guided experiences at the Distillery that explore the history and technology of Woodford Reserve.

Tickets are priced differently based on the experience and all guests 21 and over can taste the award-winning craft bourbon at the conclusion of the tours.

• Path to Flavor Tour: This tour starts with the distillery grounds and explores the five main elements that go into Woodford Reserve flavors. This is an easy walking tour with very few stairs. The tour runs while the distillery is working, so you get to see the real work in action. You get to walk inside original buildings, well over 100 years old to see the entire bourbon-making process. For this tour, Woodford is often booked out several months in advance and all tours are capped at 16 guests, so early reservations are required.
• The Spectacle for the Senses: Want to get straight to the sipping? You can skip the tour and enjoy a 30-minute guided tasting with five samples from the Woodford family of brands. For the tastings, bourbon and whiskey samples are on rotation, pending availability and reservations must be made online ahead of time.
• VIP Master Distiller Tour: For the ultimate Woodford Reserve fan, this two-hour tour with Master Distiller and/or Assistant Master Distiller is a true VIP experience. With our leaders at the helm, you’ll get a behind-the-scenes tour of the Distillery, Lab, Warehouse, and of course, a tasting. Each ticket includes a limited edition bottle and the experience is limited to 8 guests. This tour is only available as the distiller’s schedules permit and are subject to change.
• Innovation Inspired Tour: This tour option focuses on what’s next for Woodford Reserve. You’ll still receive an in-depth tour of the property, but the tasting includes a more innovative line up and each guest receives a Woodford Reserve branded rocks glass at the end.
• Distillery Series Portfolio Tour: This experience showcases the grounds and buildings with a special treat for participants. The tasting includes three Distillery Series which are only available at the distillery and select local markets. Each ticket also includes three Distillery Series 375ml bottles to take home with you!

Additional Amenities

Woodford Distillery is open seven days a week and is located in Versailles, KY. The visitor’s center is spacious and well-stocked with unique gifts for the bar enthusiast. There’s also an outside bar to enjoy with a beautiful patio and a rustic atmosphere.

Although tours fill up fast, even if you don’t have a reservation, the history and grounds alone are worth the trip for both history lovers and bourbon geeks.

Become a Woodford Friend

Because the history of bourbon is the history of Kentucky, no visit is complete without stopping at the Woodford Reserve Distillery.

Contact Bluegrass Transportation to reserve your custom bourbon tour in the Bluegrass State.

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Distillery Nearby

8 Favorite Distilleries in Lexington, Kentucky

• December 6, 2023
• Distilleries , Trails & Tours

When most people think about Kentucky, the first thing that comes to mind is whiskey. The state has rightfully earned the title of bourbon country for producing excellent spirits.  There are more whiskey barrels in the state than the number of people, as it has 7 million barrels and only 4.5 million people.

People from all around the globe travel to Kentucky to experience its bourbon trail, and Lexington City is an integral part of that trail. It has over 14 family-owned distilleries, most of which have been operating for years.  This post highlights the top distilleries in Lexington, Kentucky, and other things you can do in the city.

1. Woodford Reserve 

Arguably the most famous distillery in Lexington, Woodford is also among the oldest. It started distillation in 1812 and currently ranks as a National History Landmark.  After over 200 years of operation, Woodford has fine-tuned its spirit-making process and focuses on making it sustainable.

For instance, they recycle over 98 percent of the waste material, have dedicated 10 acres to conserving native species, and compost 97 percent of all their food scraps.  When you book a distillery tour, the guide will walk you through their ancient buildings, elaborate on their history, and you will sample their renowned spirits.

Some of Woodford Reserve’s products are;

• Malt whiskey
• Double oaked bourbon
• Straight bourbon whiskey
• Wheat whiskey
• Rye whiskey

Location: 1228 Manchester St, Unit 100, Lexington, KY 40504

Phone: + 1 859-309-3230

2. James E. Pepper Distillery 

James E. Pepper began producing spirits in 1779 at the height of the American Revolution. However, it had to shut down in the early 1960s after a severe recession hit the bourbon.

In 2017, the famous brand reopened its doors after relocating to its original headquarters in the distillery district. You can visit James E. Pepper for a tour and a chance to taste some of their excellently made whiskey, which includes:

• 1776 Bourbon
• Rye bottled in bond
• Bourbon bottled in bond

Phone: +1 859-309-3230

3. Buffalo Trace Distillery 

Situated in Frankfort, Buffalo Trace is among the most famous distilleries in Lexington. The reason is that it’s one of the oldest spirit producers in the country. Buffalo Trace survived the prohibition period, a tumultuous time that saw many similar companies shut down.

The distillery attributes its immense success to always keeping the mash for its spirits top secret. However, on its website, you will find a simulator that you can use to create a unique mash and then test out various combinations.

Even though Buffalo Trace is the company’s flagship brand, it also has other top-selling products, like

• Sazerac Rye
• W.L. Weller
• Old Charter
• Bourbon Cream
• Wheatley Vodka
• Freddies Old Fashioned Soda
• Kosher Whiskey
• George T. Stagg
• Eagle Rare Bourbon
• Single Oak Project

The distillery is open Monday to Sunday for tours, or you can also check out their gift shop, which is open daily.

Location: 113 Great Buffalo Trace, Frankfort, KY 40601

Phone: +1 866-729-3722

4. Castle & Key Distillery 

Colonel Haynes Taylor Jr built a unique distillery in 1887 with buildings featuring a classic springhouse, castle, and sunken garden. Sadly, in 1920, the distillery had to close due to tough economic times caused by the prohibition.

As years passed, the property had different owners until 2014, when Will Arvin, the founder of Castle and Key, bought and renovated it. 

Even though the distillery isn’t as old as the others in Lexington, it has worked hard to earn a spot in the limelight, releasing spirits like 

• Harvest Seasonal Gin
• Roots of Ruin Gin
• Small Batch Bourbon Whiskey
• Sacred Spring Vodka
• Restoration Rye Whiskey
• The Woolgatherer
• Small Batch Wheated Bourbon Whiskey

The owners have also created an expansive outdoor area overlooking a river where you can sit and relax while enjoying their cocktails.

Location: 445 McCracken Pike, Frankfort, KY 40601

Phone: +1 502-395-9070

5. Town Branch Distillery 

Town Branch is a Lexington Brewing and Distilling Company subsidiary, so if you would like to sample something different, you can tour their brewery section.

Even though Town Branch is smaller than the other distilleries on this post, it has a respectable collection of products ranging from liquors to complex teas and other beverages. They include

• Straight Bourbon Whiskey
• Single Malt Whiskey
• Small Batch Straight Rye Whiskey
• Single Barrel Reserve Rye Whiskey
• Single Barrel Reserve Bourbon Whiskey
• Mil Mediterranean Gin
• Pearse 12YR Founder’s Irish whiskey

Also, Town Branch is situated in downtown Lexington, which makes it easily accessible.

Location: 401 Cross St, Lexington, KY 40508-2806

Phone: +1 859-255-2337

6. Four Roses Distillery

Considered by many spirit lovers to be a veteran in the distillation world, Four Roses has been producing whiskey since the early 1880s.

Four Roses stands out from the rest as it is the only company with two different mashes and five yeast strains that combine to make ten unique bourbon recipes. The artisans then mix these ingredients by hand to make their signature bourbon.

When you visit the distillery for a tour, the guide will explain the company’s complex production process. They also have a visitor center that has a bar where you can sample some of their spirits, like

• Single Barrel Bourbon
• Small Batch Select Bourbon
• Small Batch Bourbon

Location: 1224 Bond Mill Rd, Lawrenceburg, KY 40342

Phone: +1 502-839-3436

7. Barrel House Distilling

Pete Wright and Jeff Wiseman envisioned making spirits that had a unique but classy feel, and thus, they founded Barrel House Distilling.  Since releasing its first drink in 2008, Pure Blue Vodka, the company has slowly increased its catalog and fine-tuned its beverage-making process using only traditional methods.

The distillery is open for tours from Tuesday to Sunday, but you must buy tickets in advance. They also have a gift shop where you will find their merchandise at discounted rates.

Some of the company’s top-selling products are

• Rockcastle Bourbon
• Barrel House Select
• Pure Blue Vodka
• Devil John Moonshine
• Devil John Dark’ Shine
• Barrel House Rum

Location: 1200 Manchester Street, Lexington, KY 40504

Phone: +1 859-259-0159

8. Bluegrass Distillers 

Bluegrass deeply believes that to make premium bourbon, you must combine innovation, passion, and craftsmanship. The distillery started operation in 2012 by mashing their grains by hand. This attention to detail enabled them to build a following in the country.

Currently, the company has immensely improved its production, grows corn on-site, and is constantly pushing to reach higher levels of whiskey production.

Bluegrass has an impressive product catalog that includes:

• Toasted Oak Bourbon
• Colonel Francisco Rye Whiskey
• Lee’s Branch

You can book a tour of the distillery and a chance to taste their products. It is open Monday to Thursday from 10 am to 4 pm and Friday to Saturday from 10 am to 6 pm.

Location: 501 W. 6th St, Lexington, KY 40508

Phone: +1 859-217-2377

Other things to do in Lexington, Kentucky 

After visiting and tasting excellent beverages from these distilleries, there are plenty of other places you can stop by in Lexington. We look at some of them below.

Tour and watch races at Keeneland.

If you enjoy horse racing, Keeneland is a place you must visit. It has two racing seasons in spring and fall, and it’s known globally as the top auction area for thoroughbreds.  Keeneland is open throughout the year and is only a few minute’s drive from Lexington’s downtown area, making it easily accessible.

Apart from watching the races, you can tour the facility (which is massive.) One of the key highlights at the facility is observing the horses while they’re doing morning training sessions.  You can also go through the library area to learn about the ancient traditions of the horse-rearing industry.

Location: 4201 Versailles Rd, Lexington, KY.

Enjoy the outdoors at Raven Run Nature Sanctuary. 

Raven Run is an expansive 734-acre sanctuary with a nature center, hiking trails, and impressive bird blinds. The shelter has numerous bird species and occasionally hosts events throughout the year. While at the sanctuary, you can participate in yoga sessions, running events, and nature exploration escapades.

Location: 3885 Raven Run Way, Lexington, Kentucky

Visit the Henry Clay Estate.

Set in a leafy, charming neighborhood a few minutes away from the downtown area, the Henry Clay Estate will give you an intriguing look into the city’s past.  Constructed in 1811 by African American workers, whom the owners later forced to work on the plantation fields, the property contains a deep history.

Once you arrive at the estate, guides wearing costumes will walk you through all the compound sections. You will see old furnishings used by the clay family and plenty of adjoining houses used by the workers.  There is also a gift shop on the premises, and if you want to hang around a little longer, head to the cafe where you can have light meals.

Location: 120 Sycamore Road, Lexington, Kentucky

Enjoy blooms at The Arboretum State Botanical Garden of Kentucky.

The Arboretum State Botanical Garden is a magnificent green space that covers over 100 acres.  While at the arboretum, you will explore varied landscapes such as numerous tree species, botanical gardens, and a spacious kids’ garden, where children will learn about food and participate in a few gardening exercises.

The management dedicated some gardens to particular plants and species. Hence, you will find some named Herb Garden, Witch Hazel Del, and Pollinator Garden. The administration also set aside a rose garden for the victims of the infamous Flight 5191.

Location: Alumni Drive, Lexington, Kentucky 

See the yearlings and foals at Mill Ridge Farm.

Take an eight-minute drive on the southern part of Keenland, and you will arrive at the doorstep of one of the state’s top thoroughbred breeders: Mill Ridge Farm.  The farm is open daily for visitors, and it’s known all over the country for having produced at least 52 champion racers. One of its horses has even won the Kentucky Derby.

Your tour will begin with a comprehensive presentation from a guide, explaining the details of their most successful horses. You will also learn about the Chandler family, which founded the farm in 1962.  After the presentation, you will follow the guide in your car to enjoy a scenic drive around the farm’s impressive 900 acres of land.

The top highlight of the day is getting close to the farm’s yearlings and fouls. The guide will allow you to feed them carrots and take pictures. It’s a heartwarming experience; even if you aren’t a horse fan, you must try it out.

Location: 2800 Bowman Mill Road, Lexington, Kentucky

Get a glimpse of plantation life at Waveland State Historic Site.

Built for the nephew of Daniel Boone in 1887, the Waveland State Historic Site is also called Joseph Bryan Estate. Nowadays, it provides an in-depth view of the 19th century plantation life.  Sitting on ten acres of land, the primary attraction on the property is the Greek Revival Mansion, which is over 145 years old.

There is also a smokehouse, servants’ quarters, and ice house. Guides can offer you a tour of the restored gardens. In addition, Waveland occasionally hosts events like Tea Tuesdays and baseball games in the summer.

Location: 225 Waveland Museum Lane, Lexington, Kentucky 

FAQs About Kentucky Distillery Tours

How many distilleries are in lexington, kentucky.

Lexington currently has 14 registered distilleries. However, that number will increase as more people enter the spirit-making industry.

Can you bring children to distillery tours in Lexington?

That will depend on an individual distillery’s rules and regulations. Some allow children, while others don’t. To be sure, you can check a distillery’s website. However, it’s worth noting that liquor tasting is only for adults.

How do I make the most of a distillery tour?

Start by preparing a set of questions you would like to ask the guides; doing so ensures you remember. Be observant throughout the tour and sample different types of spirits while at the bar area.

What is Lexington known for?

Lexington is also known as the world’s “ Horse Capital” because it has many horse farms producing high-quality thoroughbreds. Also, the state hosts plenty of annual horse races.

Explore Lexington Distilleries and More with Distillery Nearby

Now, you have a comprehensive list of top distilleries to visit while in Lexington and other attractions to make the most of your trip.  At Distillery Nearby , we aim to provide such information to spirit lovers so you know exactly where to visit every state. Check out our website for more tips on making cocktails, upcoming whiskey events, and to learn about your favorite drink.

December 2, 2023 - In Bar , Mezcal

December 7, 2023 - In Tequila

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Lexington, Kentucky

Bourbon Distilleries And Tours

Local distilleries, regional distilleries.

• Tour Providers
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Lexington: A Bourbon Lover's Paradise

For centuries, the best and brightest bourbon minds, the most skilled bourbon alchemists, and the most creative bourbon mixologists have called Lexington home. In that time, they’ve established world-class bourbon distilleries and bars, and invented some of the world’s most beloved bourbon cocktails. That’s what makes Lexington, Bourbonland.

Ways to Book

With 18 nearby distilleries to choose from, it can be hard to know where to start. That’s why we suggest either booking directly through a distillery or booking through a tour provider to curate the perfect experience for you.

Book Directly Through a Distillery 

Some of Kentucky’s top distilleries are right here in Lexington, each with their own unique charm and experiences to offer. We recommend making your reservation ahead of time, as tours often sell out!

Barrel House Distilling Co. - 1 mi Bespoken Spirits - 1 mi Bluegrass Distillers (Downtown) - 1 mi Dark Arts Whiskey House - 1.5 mi Fresh Bourbon Distillery - Downtown James E. Pepper Distillery - 1 mi Lexington Brewing and Distilling Co. - 0.5 mi RD1 Spirits - 1 mi

Lexington is right in the heart of Bourbon Country, which means we're within driving distance of almost all of the distilleries in the state. If you have some extra time, consider checking them out!

Bluegrass Distillers (Midway) - 12 mi Buffalo Trace Distillery - 26 mi Castle & Key Distillery - 27 mi Four Roses Distillery - 24 mi Glenns Creek Distillery - 28 mi Hartfield & Co . - 18 mi J. Mattingly 1845 Distillery - 29 mi Whiskey Thief Distilling Co . - 28 mi Wilderness Trail Distillery - 42 mi Wild Turkey Distillery - 22 mi Woodford Reserve Distillery - 21 mi  

Book Through A Tour Company

Enjoy a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the art of bourbon-making as you embark on an immersive experience at central Kentucky's top distilleries. Sit back and relax while a tour company handles everything for you—a great benefit of having local professionals assist with your trip!

Blue Grass Tours & Charter

Central kentucky tours, distilled experiences, horse and barrel tours, kentucky legacy tours, on tap tours, stone fences tours, limestone limousines.

Today, Lexington is known for being the heart of Bourbon Country, and the producer of some of the world’s best bourbon. We’re proud to be home to a number of stops on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail and the Kentucky Bourbon Trail Craft Tour.

Travel Guides

Reading is cool. get inspired and start planning., four roses: riding the bourbon roller coaster.

The legendary Four Roses Distillery has made strides since its founding, growing through the 21st

Beyond Bourbon: Finding the Spirit of Lexington

The best Lexington experiences involve distilleries, craft breweries, a day at the track, plenty of

How to Taste Bourbon

Crafting bourbon is an art, but believe it or not, so is drinking it. Savor the moment with these

Lexington’s Can’t Miss Bourbon Stops

Why is Bourbon so big in Kentucky? Water. Lexington and the Bluegrass Region are located above an

Bourbon Bars

Kentucky bourbon trail, free visitors guide.

Request a printed copy of our Visitors Guide and learn more about everything the Horse Capital of the World has to offer.

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Lexington Visitors Center 215 W Main St, Suite 75 Lexington, KY 40507 (800) 845-3959  | (859) 233-7299

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Unfiltered Kentucky Bourbon Tours

Affordable Bourbon Experiences

Premium-Level Service 

Pre-Batched Bourbon Experiences

Customizable 

Golf and Bourbon Days

Horse and Bourbon Days

Why Choose Us

Experienced Guides & Drivers

We're a team of bourbon nerds & industry folk: We're here to be your expert guides to the bourbon trail! 

No-Hassle  Booking

A lot goes into a trail trip: scheduling, booking, logistics, finding a DD. Let us cover this part - sit back & relax!

Small Groups = No Strangers

We're a private-only tour provider; we'd never load you on a bus with strangers, With UKT, you're always in good company. 

Best Prices on the Bourbon Trail

Same service, lower prices. Our guests enjoy savings of up to $500 per group versus our large competitors.

Our Pick-3 Distillery Regions 

SEE OPTIONS >

Louisville Area

See the world-famous whiskey row and a number of award-winning distilleries in the surrounding areas.

Distillery Options

*Angels Envy 

*Old Forester 

*Peerless 

*Prohibition 

*Bulleit 

*Rabbit Hole 

*Michter's

*Kentucky Artisan (Jefferson's)

*Jeptha Creed 

*Buzzard's Roost (Tasting Room)

* BBC (Tasting room)

* Stitzel Weller

* Evan Williams Experience

Bardstown Area

The undisputed capital of bourbon. Just 40 mins from Louisville, this old-feeling boozy city is not to be missed.  

*Four Roses (Bottling)

*Bardstown Bourbon Co

*Heaven Hill

*Lux Row 

*Preservation Distillery 

*Maker's Mark

*Log Still 

*Limestone Branch

Frankfort Area

The state capital of Kentucky. See where bourbon giants, history and mother-nature collide. 

*Buffalo Trace

*Wild Turkey (Under Construction)

*Castle & Key 

*Whiskey Thief

*J Mattingly (Tasting Room) 

*Glenn's Creek

*Four Roses 

* Woodford Reserve

* Bulleit 

*Jeptha Creed

SEE PRICING >

Mix & Match

Want to visit distilleries in different areas, no problem! Here are the possible options: 

Multi-region Options

* Louisville + Bardstown 

* Louisville + Frankfort 

* Louisville + Frankfort + Lexington

* Frankfort + Lexington

Lexington Area

Kentucky's second city. Lexington is a craft distillery mecca, and a world-class destination for horse lovers.

* James E Pepper

* RD1 (Tasting Room)

* Barrel House (Tasting Room)

* Lexington Brewing/Town Branch

* Woodford Reserve 

* Four Roses

*** All Frankfort Options ***

How to Book - Pick 3

Confirm Pickup Location

We offer convenient pickup at your Louisville, Bardstown, Lexington, or Frankfort Hotel or Airbnb. 

Select Your Region

Pick from one of the four regions in our service area: Louisville, Lexington, Frankfort, or Bardstown

Pick Your Top 5 Distilleries 

Pick your top 5! We'll then coordinate with you and book 3 distilleries based on your selections and availability. 

Book Your Trip! 

Simply pay a 50% deposit to reserve your trip. We'll handle the logistics, booking, driving, and everything else!

Pricing and Rates

Pick 3 tour-inclusive rates taxes & fees inclu ded   , parties of 2-3.

Chrysler 300 or similar luxury sedan

PARTIES OF 4-6

Ford Expedition Extended

Parties OF 7 OR MORE

Transit Van 

2 Passengers - $449 Per Person 

3 Passengers - $369 Per Person

4 Passengers - $319 Per Person

5-6 Passengers - $279 Per Person

7-12 Passengers - $249 Per Person

Additional Information

Included With Standard Price  ​

Private vehicle, driver, and transportation

Pickup at designated hotel or Airbnb

Base admission to 3 distilleries

Water & snacks 

Taxes & fees 

Drop-off at original pickup spot. 

** Price matching available  - If you find a lower rate, let us know! We'll do our best to match it. 

Transportation-Only Rates

2 Passengers - $299 Per Person

3 Passengers - $219 Per Person

4 Passengers - $209 Per Person

5-6 Passengers - $189 Per Person

Transit Van or Chevy Luxury Van

7-8 Passengers - $149 Per Person

9-13 Passengers -$119 Per Person

9 hours of DIY distillery transportation 

** Transportation-Only: Book your own tours, or visit bars gift shops, and campuses all day!  

Multi-Day Discount 

Book a 2nd Day & Get 10% OFF

BOOK NOW >

About Unfiltered KY Tours

Your Preferred Tour Company 

Unfiltered KY Tours was created to be a difference maker in our world of Kentucky tourism.

After working for other bourbon tour companies, I found that a lot of bourbon tourists are thrown into high-volume experiences that weren't really made for them. So, we decided to focus on curated tours centered around a guest's favorite brands and their idea of a perfect Kentucky bourbon tour day. 

I also heard of about folks having anxiety spending the day with strangers on large tour buses. So, I wanted to offer private tours that are close in price to some of those big-box tour companies for added peace and privacy

More than anything, I want to offer a tour experience that give guests the same kind of hospitality as they'll encounter on the bourbon trail, without breaking the bank. 

Thanks for giving my small business a chance! We look forward to sharing the unfiltered side of Kentucky with you! 

- Chuck (UKT Owner/Operator)

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Frequently asked questions.

We look forward to welcoming you at Woodford Reserve. Let us know if you have any other questions.

At this time we do not have a waitlist or cancellation list. We recommend checking back on the website for potential openings.

If you are unable to attend a scheduled experience, you will receive a full refund if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the experience start time. Groups of 10 or more guests require a 14-day cancellation in advance of the experience start time.

We no longer offer rental space for events.

The Woodford Reserve Distillery tour path is wheelchair/handicap accessible. Please note there are 32 steps up to the fermentation floor, but there is access to an elevator to assist if needed.

The recommended attire to visit the distillery is casual and comfortable. No vulgar or profane attire allowed. Be aware that during the spring and summer months, the distillery may be very hot with temperatures exceeding 90 degrees. We also recommend closed-toed shoes, as there is walking, as well as 32 steps on the tour path.

Yes, you may visit the gift shop and bar without purchasing a tour ticket.

Service animals are allowed on the tour path.  All other animals are not allowed on our tours or ticketed experiences.  We do have a dedicated pet relief area in the Visitor’s Center grass lot.

Although we are honored you would consider Woodford Reserve to be part of your special day, we do not host weddings, ceremonies, engagement photography sessions, or receptions.

Since Woodford Reserve Distillery is a working production facility, we do not allow self-guided tours, or guests to roam the distillery without a guide.

Please visit this page to view current hours and closures.

Unfortunately, the gift shop is legally unable to ship your bottle. We cannot accept pre-pays or orders over the phone.

We do not have a restaurant onsite.  We do have light bites available at our Cocktail Lounge.

We do have limited RV and trailer parking in the Welcome Center parking lot. For more information, please contact us at 859-879-1812.

If you are unable to book a certain time/date, this means the tour is booked out. Tour groups are capped at 20 guests. If you are able to book some of your party, but not all, this may mean the tour has exceeded 20 guests. You may need to select another time to accommodate your group. For more information, please contact us at 859-879-1812.

There is one bar on-site, located in the Welcome Center. It offers a range of cocktails, non-alcohol options, neat and rocks pours starting at $13.00. The bar offers a selection of snacks for purchase.

At this time, we do not allow outside food to be brought into the facility. If you prefer to bring your own food, we do offer picnic tables in the Visitor’s Center grass lot. For more information, please contact us at 859-879-1812.

Woodford Reserve is honored that you would like to include us on your special day. However, we do not allow engagement photos, senior photos, or any other type of professional photography on site, unless otherwise approved.

For the most recent updates on bottle releases, distillery events, or distillery information, please sign up for the Woodford Reserve Newsletter, located on the website.  For information on what is currently available at our Distillery Gift Shop, please contact us at 859-879-1940.  Please note that we are legally unable to ship bottles.

Guests of all ages are allowed to visit and tour the our distillery.  Children must be supervised by an adult at all times, and only guests over 21 years old are able to participate in the optional tasting at the end of the tour.  Tasting only experiences are reserved for those 21 and older.  A government-issued photo ID is required to sample beverage alcohol.

Yes, we offer Designated Driver discount for our friends choosing to drive and not imbibe.  We ask that you limit one designated driver per group, we will give our DD the option to sit in on the tasting or opt out entirely.   We ask that guests do not share their bourbon and rye samples.

Woodford Reserve is honored to offer a 10% discount in the gift shop (bottle sales excluded) and a 50% discount on our Path to Flavor Tour and Spectacle of the Senses Tasting experiences, with proof of service. We thank our military and Veterans for their service.

At this time, the Kentucky House Bill 415 currently allows shipping to select reciprocal states – Kentucky, Nebraska, New Hampshire, North Dakota, and Washington D.C.

We recommend signing up for our emails at woodfordreserve.com/register to be the first to know about future releases and expansions.

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Woodford Reserve Distillery

7785 McCracken Pike Versailles, KY 40383

The art of making fine whiskey first took place on the site of the Woodford Reserve Distillery, a National Historic Landmark, in 1812. It is now home of innovative whiskeys, under the guidance of Master Distiller Elizabeth McCall and Master Distiller Emeritus Chris Morris. Elizabeth and Chris have been integral in driving innovation and shaping the story of Woodford Reserve, sharing the belief that the keys to making the World’s Finest Bourbon are not only time and patience, but science and art.

CLAIM TO FAME

With cypress fermentation tanks, three copper pot stills and a historic limestone warehouse, Woodford Reserve is unique among Kentucky distilleries. It celebrates the past while producing modern American whiskeys.

Featured Amenities

• Cocktail Bar
• Notable Architecture
• Military Discounts
• Open 7 Days (Except Holidays)

Signature Recipe

Woodford Spire

Ingredients

1 1/2 ounces Woodford Reserve

2 ounces Lemonade

1 ounce Cranberry Juice

Lemon Twist to garnish

Instructions/Notes

Add ingredients to mixing glass and stir. Pour over ice. Garnish with lemon twist.

© Copyright 2024 Kentucky Distillers; Association. All rights reserved. Kentucky Bourbon Trail®, Bourbon Trail ™, and Kentucky Bourbon Trail Craft Tour® are trademarks of the Kentucky Distillers' Association. Enjoy Bourbon like a true Kentuckian — Responsibly. All content and photography shall not be reproduced without written permission from the Kentucky Distillers' Association. See our privacy policy here.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do distilleries offer samples.

All distilleries offer a tasting at the end of their standard tour. Some offer tasting-only experiences as well. But remember, slow down, savor your experiences and drink responsibly.

Can you buy Bourbon at the distilleries?

Under Kentucky law, visitors can purchase up to 9 liters per customer, per day at distillery gift shops. Options to ship product back to your home may be available. Please consult with each distillery and know that your state laws might prohibit shipping.

How long are the distillery tours?

While each distillery tour is unique, plan on spending at least an hour and a half at each to tour, taste, and visit the gift shop. Many distilleries offer extended and abbreviated tours in addition to a standard one hour tour. If you’re interested in times for a specific distillery tour, visit that distillery’s website for availability.

Is there an admission fee for tours?

While there are no admission fees to visit your favorite distilleries, all distilleries charge a fee for their tours. Some distilleries have abbreviated or extended specialty tours that vary in cost. Please visit each distillery’s website to explore pricing. Be sure to plan ahead. Some distillery tours book up months in advance.

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Visit the all-new home of the James B. Beam Distilling Co. in Clermont, KY. For eight generations, they've welcomed folks from far and wide to their home and distillery. One step through their front door and you're family. Walk the grounds of whiskey history for a day in Kentucky that's two centuries in the making. They've got Bourbons to serve, stories to tell, secrets to share, and experiences you won't forget. Experience genuine in the making - all together in one special place. From deep in the rackhouse tours to Kentucky inspired food and cocktails, there's always room for one more in Clermont.

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A Day on the Trail: Woodford Reserve Distillery Tour

• Posted on December 1, 2015
• By Distillery Trail

When you think about Kentucky you think of rolling hills of bluegrass, miles and miles of four board fences, thoroughbred horses and bourbon, lots and lots of bourbon. A visit to the Woodford Reserve Distillery in Versailles, Ky delivers on all of these things in a big, bold and beautiful way.

In the words of Ralph Waldo Emerson, “Life is a journey, not a destination.” That’s exactly the way you will feel as you drive off the interstate and take the 10-15 minute ride from the highway and up Grassy Springs Road. Be forewarned, a drive up this road can be dangerous, not because of bad traffic but because there are so many places to stop for photos that you may be late for your tour. The day I traveled up there was a crystal clear blue sky day. You can see it in some of the photos below.

Grassy Springs Road – Versailles, KY Save

“The Woodford Reserve Distillery is the only place in the world where you see Kentucky’s two most famous products – thoroughbred horses and bourbon whiskey maturing side by side.”

The Road to the Distillery – Thoroughbred Horse with Walker Save

The road to the distillery – thoroughbred horses napping in the sun save.

The Woodford Reserve Distillery is one of the oldest distilleries in the U.S. Elijah Pepper began crafting whiskey at this location in 1,812. Because of its importance in American history, the site was designated as a National Historic Landmark in 2,000 by the National Park Service. The distillery has changed hands a few times over the years. In fact, Brown-Forman liked it so much that they bought it twice. Brown-Forman owned the distillery from 1940 through 1970. When brown spirits were out of favor for a while, they sold the operation to a farmer who used the land for farming. In the early 90’s, Brown-Forman bought the distillery back and introduced the world to Woodford Reserve in 1996. The brand will be celebrating its 20 th anniversary next year.

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Woodford Reserve Distillery Welcome Center Save

The tour starts with a sharing of headsets. This is a working distillery so it can be a bit loud at times. The tour guide is miked up and ready to share the story of Woodford and this 200+ year old distillery operation. I have mixed emotions about the headsets. It’s great so you can hear and the guide doesn’t have to yell but, I don’t think there is as much interaction between guests and the guide.

Woodford Reserve Distillery – The View from the Welcome Center Save

Woodford reserve distillery – national historic landmark save.

Before you enter the distillery building the first thing you see is rolling barrels of newly birthed bourbon. They still roll their own here. These barrels roll from the distillery down the path to the warehouse to gently age. If you look close at a bottle of Woodford you won’t find an age statement. That’s because all of its bourbon is at least four years old and therefore does not require an age statement on its bottles. As you enter the distillery, the first thing you notice is the unmistakable smell of the mash fermenting. This is a clear sign you are in the right place. From here, you get introduced to the five things that make up bourbon.

Five Sources of Flavor Save

• Water – Calcium rich and iron free Kentucky limestone water. Makes for better whiskey and builds strong bones in those thoroughbreds.
• Grain – Woodford uses 78% corn, 18% rye and 10% barley.
• Fermentation – Most distilleries go 3 to 5 days. Woodford goes at least 6 days.
• Distillation – Woodford is triple distilled.
• Maturation – You won’t find an age statement on any Woodford product, it’s all ages a minimum of four years.

Related Story The Master Distiller’s “Rule of Thumb” on Flavor

Fermentation Tanks Save

Moving upstairs you’ll see, hear and smell the fermenting process happening in 7,500 gallon cedar tanks. Each tank will make about 20 barrels of bourbon. Most distilleries let their mash ferment for three to five days, one of the unique things that Woodford does is let their mash sit for at least six days. From here we moved on to the distillation process where the mash goes through not one but three 1,650 gallon Forsyths copper pot stills.

Three Copper Pot Stills Save

Woodford reserve spirits box save.

After the still, it’s on to barreling. Brown-Forman has its own cooperage where they make their own 53 gallon oak barrels. Woodford barrels are toasted then lightly charred. There is no numbering system used for charring barrels here, that classification is actually specific to one barrel company, not the industry. There was no bourbon being poured into barrels during our tour.

Woodford Reserve Warehouse Save

Every distillery needs a distillery cat. The barrel warehouse is often the place where you will find Oscar, possibly the most photographed cat in Kentucky. Oscar was introduced to the distillery this summer. He’s a rescue cat from the Woodford County Humane Society named after distiller Oscar Pepper. The previous cat Elijah , named after distiller Elijah Pepper passed away in June of 2014. Unfortunately, Oscar was nowhere to be found the day of our tour.

The barrels make the journey from the distillery down a gravity fed track to the old stone warehouse. The barrel warehouse next to the distillery holds about 5,000 barrels. The rest of the barrels are being stored on top of a nearby hill. You can see one of the newer warehouses in one of the photos above. All of the Woodford warehouses are heat cycled using steam that emanates from the bottom of the warehouse during the cold months of the year. This heating/cooling cycle helps to replicate that hot and cold of the Kentucky summers that help with the bourbons maturation process.

Steam Heat Cycled Warehouse Save

Rickhouse or Rackhouse? Woodford has neither, they simply go by warehouse.

Related Stories Part 1: Understanding Oak Barrel Maturation – Know Your Casks Part 2: Understanding Oak Barrel Maturation – Maturity is Not Age Part 3: Understanding Oak Barrel Maturation – Location, Location, Location

Bottling of Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey Save

After years of maturation the brown liquid is ready to move from barrel to bottle. In case there was any question if Woodford is “made by hand” or not, I can tell you, the bottling of the spirits, applying of the labels and boxing is done meticulously by hand.

Bourbon Sampling Save

And no distillery tour would be complete without a tasting. After touring the warehouse we headed back up the hill for a tasting. The laws for tastings vary state by state. In Kentucky, guests are allowed a maximum of two tastings of 1/2 ounce each per visitor per day. On this day, guests got to taste Woodford Reserve Distiller’s Select Kentucky Straight Bourbon and Woodford Reserve Double Oaked Kentucky Straight Bourbon. And the final stop on the journey is the gift shop where fans can purchase a bottle of their favorite spirit.

3 Things to Do Nearby

While you are on the distillery trail there are plenty of other things to do, see and taste. Here are three things that are just minutes away from the Woodford Reserve Distillery.

• Triple Crown Winner American Pharoah – It’s not every day you get to see a living legend in sports but, just around the corner from the Woodford Reserve Distillery is Coolmore Farms. Coolmore is the new home of one of America’s greatest athletes, Triple Crown Winner American Pharoah. After retiring from racing, he’s transitioning into his new life as a stallion at Coolmore America’s Ashford Stud. The farm welcomes horse racing fans to see American Pharoah at Coolmore America, but call ahead because it is a working thoroughbred horse farm and tours are scheduled around the routines of the horses. And, if you are interested, according to their website, his stud fee is $200,000. You can watch a short film about his arrival at his new Coolmore home here .
• Rebecca Ruth Candy: Bourbon Balls – Operating since 1919, Rebecca Ruth is another Kentucky Bourbon classic. The idea of mixing candy and bourbon together was accidentally suggested by a dignitary, Eleanor Hume Offutt, at Frankfort’s sesquicentennial celebration in 1936. Mrs. Booe worked on the recipe for two years before perfecting the still-secret process for blending bourbon and candy. This unique confectionery operation is known worldwide as “The Inventor of Bourbon Candy!” and is located in downtown Frankfort, KY. The tour highlights the story of Ruth Hanly Booe and includes “Edna’s Table,” antique candy furnace and hand-stirred copper kettles that are still used to this day.
• Kentucky State Capitol – Just off of Interstate 64 is the capital of the Commonwealth of Kentucky. You can take a tour of the majestic state capital, see legislatures in action or just watch time pass on the gigantic floral clock.

To find a distillery near you, visit our exclusive Distillery Trail  Distillery Directory . Here you’ll find a detailed listing of all the distilleries across the country. If you are interested in a premium listing in our directory please contact us at [email protected] and we’ll get right back to you. Cheers!

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