3 of Our Favorite Bourbon Distilleries Along the Kentucky Bourbon Trail™

Kentucky is well known for its rich bourbon heritage, and there's no better place to experience it than on The Kentucky Bourbon Trail™. We've highlighted our top three favorites if you want to explore bourbon distilleries near Frankfort, KY. Each offers a blend of history, craftsmanship, and Southern hospitality. Whether you're a seasoned bourbon enthusiast or just curious about Kentucky's signature spirit, these distilleries are sure to impress.

1. Buffalo Trace Distillery on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail™

Few distilleries compare to Buffalo Trace when it comes to bourbon history. Buffalo Trace is one of the oldest operating distilleries in the USA and has produced award-winning bourbon for over 200 years. Located in Frankfort, KY, this distillery is the cornerstone of Kentucky's bourbon tradition. Its grounds are historic, and its bourbons have won several coveted awards, including World's Best Bourbon.

Tour Highlights:

• National Historic Landmark: Explore the original distillery buildings and learn about Buffalo Trace's pioneering role in shaping bourbon production.
• Exclusive Tastings: Tours often conclude with samples of Buffalo Trace's flagship bourbons, including Buffalo Trace Bourbon and Eagle Rare.
• Behind-the-Scenes Access: Depending on the tour you choose, you may get a glimpse into their production facilities, barrel-aging warehouses, and bottling process.

Buffalo Trace offers complimentary tours, making this stop a "must-do" for anyone interested in bourbon distillery tours in KY.

Another bourbon distillery near Frankfort, KY, worth a visit is Castle & Key Distillery. This distillery is located on the grounds of the historic Old Taylor Distillery, built in the 1800s and restored to its former grandeur. Castle & Key's name reflects its castle-like architecture and role as the "key" to the perfect bourbon experience.

Tour Highlights:

• Scenic Grounds: The tour takes you through the distillery's castle-inspired architecture and inspiring gardens designed by renowned landscape architect Jon Carloftis.
• Historical Insights: Learn about the legendary Colonel E.H. Taylor, Jr., the bourbon visionary who built the distillery in 1887 and was instrumental in passing the Bottled in Bond Act of 1897.
• Craft Distilling: Castle & Key produces more than bourbon; you'll also sample their gin and rye whiskey while learning about their innovative distilling processes.

3. Woodford Reserve Distillery on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail™

Located in the heart of the Bluegrass Region, Woodford Reserve is another iconic name on The Kentucky Bourbon Trail™. Just a short drive from Frankfort, this distillery is famous for producing one of the world's smoothest and most complex bourbons.

Tour Highlights:

• Historic Landmark: The distillery is housed in buildings dating back to the 1800s, making it a National Historic Landmark.
• Copper Pot Stills: Experience traditional bourbon-making techniques, including copper pot stills and the unique triple distillation process that gives Woodford Reserve its smooth finish.
• Tasting Experience: At the end of the tour, you'll have the chance to taste Woodford's award-winning bourbon, including their classic Distiller's Select and limited-edition releases.

We proudly offer several river tours, including the KY River Bourbon History Tour. This tour takes you along the Kentucky River, providing unique views of the area's natural landscapes and historic sites. As you cruise down the river, you'll learn about the region's rich history of bourbon production and its deep connection to the river itself.

Contact us today for an unforgettable Kentucky Bourbon Trail™ experience!