5 Best Bourbon Distilleries to Visit in Kentucky

How much do YOU know about the Kentucky bourbon scene?

Kentucky is among the most well-known states in our beautiful country, known for its bourbon distilling history. The area has been distilling various brands of alcohol for ages, so much so that it’s even well-known across the globe as the home of a large variety of drinks.

This is a culture and a business that’s been passed down from one generation to the next. Kentucky distillery tours and tastings show visitors how the spirits are made.

So you’ll walk away with a more refined palate, some knowledge, and probably a few bottles to take home with you. Check out 5 Kentucky distilleries all bourbon fans should visit at least once.

And don’t worry. Some even offer other alcoholic beverages for those hoping for a little variety on their trip.

Jim Beam, Clermont

With one of the most recognizable names in bourbon, Jim Beam is a must for visitors on a distillery tour. You’ll get an opportunity to see the brand’s birthplace in Clermont: the Jim Beam American Outpost.

It’s still owned by the Beam Family, and it’s the largest bourbon producer in the entire state. You’ll have the chance see to witness how the best and largest producers in the entire region operate on a daily basis.

This highly sought-after tour takes about 90 minutes and costs between $10 and $14. It’s very well-rounded, including seeing the making of their bourbon, and at the end, visitors get a chance to taste the bourbon itself.

The recently-renovated distillery’s new tour is a six-stage multisensory excursion, where visitors also get the chance to pick out a Single Barrel bottle and customize the label for themselves. Pro Tip: Early booking is crucial for this one.

Wild Turkey, Lawrenceburg

Wild Turkey has one of the best reputations in the entire state of Kentucky. You can find it just along the Kentucky River, and by visiting it you’ll get the added bonus of a chance to visit souvenir shops, great views of the river, and many other fun activities.

This distillery has even won an award for having the best visitor center. Taking a tour of this distillery will give you a chance to celebrate the history, culture, and lifestyle that goes along with whiskey and other alcoholic beverages.

It’s also a great chance to see the work of some of the best distillers in our country’s history.

So with a tasting room that has an excellent view of the Kentucky River, an award-winning visitor center, and a gift shop that sells souvenirs and Wild Turkey bourbon, this is the perfect place to learn how this brand’s popular bourbon is made.

Barton 1792, Bardstown

Barton 1792 is another intriguing distillery worth visiting in the state of Kentucky. This is a distillery that has a long history, and it lies on 196 acres of Kentucky countryside just outside of Bardstown.

The year in the name is a tribute to when the state joined the Union, and the distillery opened in 1879. This particular setting is best known for its Tom Moore Spring, where the water for the whiskey is sourced.

The particular distillery is one of the few where you can get a complimentary tour. And even though it’s not as large or as famous as the rest of the distilleries on our list, it’s worth stopping by and checking them out.

The great thing about this kind of tour is that you get to see the difference between a large and small distillery and how their craftwork differs.

Your tour also includes a stop at the self-recognized World’s Largest Whiskey Barrel and includes a complimentary tasting at the end. This tour, as well as the Barton Tradition and Bushel to Bottle tours, aren’t even necessary. So you should pop in if you’re ever in the area.

Maker’s Mark Distillery, Loretto

An iconic brand known for its red wax-dipped bottles, the Maker’s Mark Distillery in Loretto offers tours of the National Historic Landmark so guests can learn about its history and its makers. Be sure to reserve some time because there is a lot to do and see.

You’ll get a chance to grab some bourbon-infused coffee, then spend some time at the country campus listening to the history of the distillery and its makers and how their brand has evolved over time.

Then visitors can visit their beautiful artwork and get a chance to taste their different whiskies. But the main reason to come here is for a chance to see the process of making double-oaked bourbon.

Visitors can even hand-dip a bottle in the classic red wax for a perfect souvenir to take home.

Buffalo Trace, Frankfort

This distillery is the oldest continuously operating one in the state, and most whiskey aficionados are extremely familiar with the label.

Fun Fact: During the Prohibition period, this distillery stayed open and brewed medicinal whiskey, which was legal in most places if it was prescribed. The sprawling property at Buffalo Trace looks like it was taken right out of rural Ireland.

While visiting, you’ll find old brick buildings that are set against rolling hills and steam pouring from chimneys. We recommend you take the Landmarks Tour.

It will take you to spots in the distillery that perfectly demonstrate why it was designated a national historic landmark and, of course, it will end with a relaxing bourbon tasting.

Be sure to let us know in the comments section which of these bourbon distilleries was you’re favorite. And in the meantime, we’ve got a related article we think you’ll enjoy. Check out: 11 Best Cities To Eat Barbecue in America, According To Experts