best bardstown bourbon tours

Bourbon Distilleries in Bardstown

Sip, taste, and shop at these bardstown bourbon distilleries.

 There’s a familiar sound that we all know: the clink of the ice as it hits an empty glass, the crack of a seal breaking, and the distinctive rush of a two-finger pour. The aroma is strong with hints of oak, char, brown sugar, and smoke; the smooth taste like nothing else and warming your entire body. Once you’ve had a premium bourbon, you’ll never settle for anything less. Welcome to Kentucky, the home of some of the world’s best Bardstown bourbon distilleries. 

Bourbon was born in Bardstown, so if you genuinely want to learn and explore the world of whiskey, then you want to start where it all began. There are more than 70 whiskey distilleries in the state of Kentucky, and quite a few of those lie within the Bardstown city limits. After all, we didn’t get the nickname “Bourbon Capital of the World” without a good reason. It’s no surprise that tasting at Bardstown bourbon distilleries is by far the most popular pastime in our area.

Each year in our charming small town, we celebrate the Bardstown bourbon distilleries and others across the state with the Kentucky Bourbon Festival —a huge party in the downtown area with live music and festivities. We’re also the official trailhead for the Kentucky Bourbon Trail .  Additionally, if that wasn’t enough, Bardstown is also home to the Oscar Getz Museum of Whiskey, a place of worship for the brown liquid, showcasing the history and artifacts to the craft of distilling.

As you begin to plan your trip to visit these Bardstown bourbon distilleries, lodging will come into play, and thankfully there is no better match for a whiskey-focused vacation than the Bourbon Manor Bed and Breakfast . Case in point, each of our ten luxurious guest suites has a favorite bourbon-based cocktail-themed name, and we celebrate with one of those delicious craft beverages each day come happy hour. Our Inn is the perfect place to call your home away from home! 

We can’t wait to be your hosts as you explore the history and beauty of our area. Join us for a tour of the best Bardstown bourbon distilleries, a favorite cocktail (or two), and book your elegant suite today!  

The 6 Best Bardstown Bourbon Distilleries for Tastings

Locals in Bardstown often credit a Baptist minister, Elijah Craig, as the inventor of Kentucky Bourbon. While the history behind bourbon’s origin is a bit murky, what’s very clear is that Bourbon is the quintessential American spirit. Settlers from Ireland, Scotland, and other European countries came to the Bardstown area over 200 years ago and brought knowledge of distilling and recipes from their homelands. These settlers began to use corn (found in abundance in Kentucky) as mash for their whiskeys, and this tradition continues today.

Here are six of our favorite local Bardstown Bourbon Distilleries not to miss on your visit to Kentucky:

• Heaven Hill : You’ll find three iconic tasting room options in Bardstown at the enormous and newly remodeled Heaven Hill Bourbon Experience Visitor’s Center and Gift Shop. On the “Connoisseur Tasting Experience,” During this experience, your host will discuss the unique characteristics of at least four of Heaven Hill’s premium or limited release American Whiskeys, focusing on the color, aroma, taste and finish. The tasting includes a showing in the 1935 Distillery Theater and access to the self-guided exhibits. “You Do Bourbon” is a 90 minute, completely unique experience where you can taste three different products specific to You Do Bourbon, choose your favorite and get the opportunity to bottle it and personalize it yourself. You will also explore the hands on You Do Bourbon lab. “Magic of the Mashbill,” lasts 45 minutes, priced at $18.00/person.  During this experience, you’ll learn about five nationally acclaimed American Whiskeys, each from a different mashbill, in one of the iconic tasting rooms. The tasting includes a showing in the 1935 Distillery Theater and access to the self-guided exhibits.
• Willett Distillery : This is one of the Bardstown bourbon distilleries founded in the 1930s and continues to create small-batch bourbons and ryes. Choose from the quick tasting or more extended guided walking tour of the distillery. Either way, be sure to block time for a cocktail and an appetizer at the Bar at Willett —a dark, romantic craft bar with skilled mixologists and chefs.
• Preservation Distillery : Producing micro-batch whiskeys and ryes in 1 to 3 barrel batches, this family-owned and operated distillery is the only 100 percent pot-still producer in Bardstown. Head out to their working farm and distillery for tastings and tours for a behind-the-scenes look at this old-school method of producing these brown spirits.
• Lux Row Distillers : Enter through a beautiful tree-lined street that ends at one of the Bardstown bourbon distilleries producing thousands of spirit barrels each year. With big names like Rebel Yell and Ezra Brooks, this 18,000 square foot modern distillery is bustling. Join them on an hour tour to witness the bourbon-making process from start to finish and then taste some of these fantastic products.
• Bardstown Bourbon Distillery : Known as one of the newcomers to the bourbon scene in Bardstown, this distillery is putting the craft of whiskey making on display. The modern facility is an open space with large glass walls separating the areas. Join them here for a host of classes, tours, and hands-on distilling experiences. Plan on dinner at the Kitchen & Bar for vintage whiskey cocktails, up-scale pub food, and Southern hospitality.

More Distilleries to Explore on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail near Bardstown

After you’ve hit the local Bardstown bourbon distilleries, there’s a lot more to explore (and taste) on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail. Heading out to these other tasting rooms and distilleries is a perfect way to see the beautiful scenery and countryside of our pastoral Southern state. 

These four well-known Kentucky distilleries are a bit further out of Bardstown, but well worth the visit:

• Jim Beam : Founder Jacob Beam sold his first barrel of bourbon in 1795. Let’s just say that the business has flourished over its 200-year history. The freshly renovated American Stillhouse in Clermont, Kentucky, is a destination for a fully immersive bourbon experience. The new campus serves as the hub for the Jim Beam portfolio (including Knob Creek, Basil Hayden’s, and more) and an educational center for bourbon fans. A brand new Kitchen Table restaurant launched as well with a full-service bar and food menu.
• Four Roses Bourbon : There are two locations for bourbon tastings at this iconic brand, the historic 1910 Spanish Mission-style structure in Lawrenceburg, Kentucky, and their bottling and warehouse facility in Cox’s Creek, KY. The flagship Four Roses Bourbon combines ten different whiskey recipes from years of experience and creates a flavorful and very drinkable quaff.
• Woodford Reserve : Take a road trip out to Versailles, KY, for a bourbon tasting that brings you back to 1812, when they first began production at this historic location. The tour explores their peaceful grounds, the history of bourbon in the area, and into the barrel house where the magic happens. Finish up with a guided tasting of the award-winning craft whiskey.

• Maker’s Mark : Though this bourbon distillery isn’t one of the oldest in Kentucky, it is one of the most iconic bourbon brands in the world. The sealed bottles, dipped in the signature red wax, are recognizable behind a bar immediately. And while Maker’s Mark is technically not considered one of the Bardstown bourbon distilleries—it’s located just outside of town in Loretto, KY—it’s one of the true greats and you’ll find a lovely experience at a visit to the distillery.
• On a tasting tour at Maker’s Mark (tasting room pictured above), you’ll explore the historic 1,000-acre grounds known as Star Hill Farms, see the limestone where they finish the specialty bourbons, and take a hand at dipping your own bottle in the hot red wax. The perfect souvenir to bring home with you. Grab a bite to eat at the farm-to-table restaurant before you head on back to Bardstown. 

Stay at Our luxury Bardstown Kentucky Bed and Breakfast

After spending a day exploring the fantastic local whiskeys and ryes at these Bardstown bourbon distilleries, you’ll be ready to head on back to the Bourbon Manor—our luxury Bardstown bed and breakfast. There’s no better place to unwind and relax with one more drink. Our historic Inn is as important to the history of Bardstown as bourbon is to Kentucky. 

Each of our ten guest suites has extensive amenities. All have the perfect combination of antique furnishings and modern amenities, including cozy fireplaces, luxurious beds with designer linens, and a private bath with Turkish towels and Terry robes. Most king guest rooms feature a jetted tub as well as a walk-in shower. You’ll find seven suites in our main manor house, with three additional rooms in the carriage house on our beautiful garden grounds. 

One of the biggest bonuses for whiskey fans staying at our Bardstown Bed and Breakfast is our Bardstown bourbon distilleries add-on packages . It’s the absolute best way to explore along the Kentucky Bourbon Trail without a care in the world. We take care of all your transportation needs and can even plan all of the stops at our favorite Bardstown bourbon distilleries for you. As always, we’re more than happy to make reservations and willing to answer any questions you might have about the local Bardstown bourbon distilleries and beyond. 

All of our B&B guests are treated to a complimentary country breakfast each morning of their stay in our elegant dining room. In the cooler months, sitting by our wood-burning fire with a fresh cup of coffee is a perfect way to wake up. Our breakfast menu is seasonal and changes daily, but expect hearty dishes like cheesy hashbrowns casserole, and signature omelets, as well as the lighter fare of fresh fruit and homemade muffins. 

Get Our Guide To Bourbon Country!

As we all know Kentucky is Bourbon Country and Bardstown in right in the middle.  We have hand crafted a 3-Day guide that will take you through the best of everything in Bardstown and the surrounding area.

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The Bardstown Bourbon Company is a New Blend of Bourbon Makers, pushing the boundaries through innovation, while honoring the traditional art of making whiskey. 

Nestled in Bardstown, KY, the heart of the Bourbon Capital of the World, Bardstown Bourbon Co. is the first Napa Valley style destination on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail® to combine distilling, culinary, and beverage expertise to create a modern, authentic bourbon experience. In 2023, Bardstown Bourbon Co. opened their immersive satellite experience on historic Whiskey Row in downtown Louisville.

Bardstown Distillery

Downtown louisville experience, book a tour.

Bardstown, Kentucky

Bardstown Bourbon Company pushes the boundaries of innovation while honoring the traditional art of whiskey making. Nestled in the heart of the Bourbon Capital of the World, we are the first Napa Valley style destination to combine distilling, culinary, and an innovative beverage program.  Come visit our world-class distillery and experience multiple tour options, our vintage library, or one of our unique educational tasting opportunities.  This is the modern bourbon experience.

Louisville Tasting Room

Louisville, kentucky.

Bardstown Bourbon Co.’s brand new Louisville Tasting Room allows guests to experience innovation on historic Whiskey Row in downtown Louisville. The Louisville Tasting Room offers several ways to experience Bardstown Bourbon Company, including one-of-a-kind tastings, interactive experiences, educational programs, a full-service bar, retail shop, and other elements to discover.   It’s an immersive bourbon experience unlike any other.

Bardstown Distillery 360 Tour

Visit our world-class distillery via our 360 Tour and learn all about the grounds in Bardstown, Kentucky.

1500 Parkway Drive Bardstown, KY 40004 (502) 233-4769

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Discover the Best Distilleries in Bardstown: The Bourbon Capital of the World

Over 11 unique bourbon experiences can be found in Bardstown and that's just the beginning of this exciting Kentucky town!

Bourbon comes from Bardstown

Learn about the city of Bardstown, plan your trip, and view a bourbon-filled itinerary below.

Settled in 1780, Bardstown in Kentucky’s 2nd-oldest city. It is the county seat of Nelson County and an official trailhead of the Kentucky Bourbon Trail. USA Today named Bardstown as “The Most Beautiful Small Town in America” in 2012 because of its unique and charming nature. With 11 distillery experiences located within 16 miles of downtown, Bardstown is one of the best cities to visit if you’re looking for a bourbon adventure.

Bourbon in and Around Bardstown

Book a tour at one of these world-class distilleries and taste some of the best bourbon around..

Bardstown Bourbon Company

A modern distillery that produces a variety of bourbons and offers a unique visitor experience. Learn more by tapping the image above.

Barton 1792

Known for its historic distillery in Bardstown, Kentucky, producing high-quality bourbon since 1879. Learn more by tapping the image above.

Heaven Hill

One of the largest independent family-owned and operated distilled spirits producers in the US, with a wide range of bourbon brands. Learn more by tapping the image above.

Log Still Distillery

A family-owned distillery with deep roots in Kentucky's bourbon history and a focus on crafting premium spirits. Learn more by tapping the image above.

Lux Row Distillers

A family-owned company in Bardstown that produces various bourbon brands, including Rebel Yell and Blood Oath. Learn more by tapping the image above.

Preservation Distillery

A craft distillery in Bardstown focused on producing small-batch, high-quality bourbon. Learn more by tapping the image above.

Willett Distillery

A family-owned distillery with a long history of producing premium bourbon and rye whiskeys. Learn more by tapping the image above.

Jim Beam American Stillhouse

Located in Clermont, Kentucky, is the home of the world's best-selling bourbon, offering visitors an in-depth look at the distilling process. Learn more by tapping the image above.

Limestone Branch Distillery

A craft distillery in Lebanon, Kentucky, producing a range of spirits, including the popular Yellowstone bourbon. Learn more by tapping the image above.

Maker's Mark

A historic distillery in Loretto, known for its handcrafted bourbon and iconic red wax seal. Learn more by tapping the image above.

Four Roses Warehouse & Bottling Facility

Located in Cox’s Creek, this facility offers insights into how its signature bourbons are bottled and stored. Learn more by tapping the image above.

A modern distillery that produces a variety of bourbons and offers a unique visitor experience. Learn more here.

Established in 1879 and is the oldest fully-operating distillery in Bardstown, Barton 1792 sits on 196 acres of Kentucky Bluegrass. Learn more here.

One of the largest independent family-owned and operated distilled spirits producers in the US, with a wide range of bourbon brands. Learn more here.

A family-owned distillery with deep roots in Kentucky's bourbon history and a focus on crafting premium spirits.

Learn more here.

A modern distillery that produces a variety of bourbons and offers a unique visitor experience.

 Learn more here.

Known for its historic distillery in Bardstown, Kentucky, producing high-quality bourbon since 1879.

A family-owned company in Bardstown that produces various bourbon brands, including Rebel Yell and Blood Oath.

A craft distillery in Bardstown focused on producing small-batch, high-quality bourbon. Learn more here.

A family-owned distillery with a long history of producing premium bourbon and rye whiskeys. Learn more here.

Located in Clermont, Kentucky, is the home of the world's best-selling bourbon, offering visitors an in-depth look at the distilling process. Learn more here.

A family-owned distillery with a long history of producing premium bourbon and rye whiskeys. Learn mo re here.

Whiskey Thief Distillery

A craft distillery in Lebanon, Kentucky, producing a range of spirits, including the popular Yellowstone bourbon.

A historic distillery in Loretto, known for its handcrafted bourbon and iconic red wax seal. Learn more here.

Info: Located in Cox’s Creek, this facility offers insights into how its signature bourbons are bottled and stored.

Learn more here. 

Located in Cox’s Creek, this facility offers insights into how its signature bourbons are bottled and stored.

Fun facts about bardstown

• Bardstown was named “The Most Beautiful Small Town in America” in 2012 by USA Today and Rand McNally.
• More than 300 buildings in Bardstown are on the National Register of Historic Places, with nearly 200 in the downtown district.
• The Stephen Foster Story has been entertaining audiences at the J. Dan Talbott Amphitheatre at My Old Kentucky Home State Park in Bardstown since 1959.
• My Old Kentucky Dinner Train has been hosting bourbon tours since 1988. The Bardstown railroad was originally constructed in 1860; the dining cars were built in the late 1940s after World War II.
• The Old Talbott Tavern was built in 1779 and is located just off the Courthouse Square in historic downtown Bardstown. It is the oldest restaurant in Kentucky.
• Bardstown is “The Bourbon Capital of the World” and an official trailhead of the Kentucky Bourbon Trail.

Sign-Up for the Come Find Bourbon Passport

Check in to each stop you visit, earn points, and claim rewards at the end of your road trip., discounts and deals, save when you visit come find bourbon partners. sign up below for exclusive discounts and deals on your come find bourbon road trip., ready to plan your next bourbon adventure in bardstown.

We recommend starting or ending your bourbon road trip in Bardstown while soaking up the rich history of the city. We’ve put together the perfect three day itinerary stopping in Covington, Frankfort, and Bardstown. Access it for free here and come see us soon! If you’re wondering where to stay or dine, contact us or Visit Bardstown for the best recommendations.

We recommend starting or ending your bourbon road trip in Bardstown while soaking up the rich history of the city. We’ve put together the perfect three day itinerary stopping in Covington, Frankfort, and Bardstown. Download it for free today and come see us soon! If you’re wondering where to stay or dine, contact us or Visit Bardstown for the best recommendations.

Come Find Bourbon supports responsible bourbon enjoyment. Must be 21 to participate and always enjoy your bourbon like a true Kentuckian, responsibly. Come Find Bourbon is a marketing partnership between meetNKY, Visit Frankfort , and Visit Bardstown .

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Bardstown Bourbon Company, LLC – Bardstown, KY

The bardstown distillery tour with bourbon town tours: a journey into the heart of kentucky’s bourbon country.

The Bardstown Distillery Tour, expertly organized by Bourbon Town Tours, provides a comprehensive exploration of Kentucky’s bourbon culture in one of its most iconic locales. Delve into the nuances of The Bardstown Distillery Tour, highlighting its importance within the Bourbon Town Tours portfolio and culminating with a call to action for those eager to experience this unique adventure.

Situated in the historic city of Bardstown, Kentucky, renowned as the ‘Bourbon Capital of the World’, The Bardstown Distillery Tour offers an immersive experience into the world of bourbon. Through Bourbon Town Tours, visitors get a chance to explore several of the city’s famed distilleries, each contributing to the rich tapestry of Kentucky’s bourbon heritage.

The Bardstown Distillery Tour Experience

Participants of The Bardstown Distillery Tour are treated to a journey through the heart of Kentucky’s bourbon country. The tour starts with an overview of Bardstown’s significant role in the history and development of bourbon, providing context for the experience that unfolds.

Bardstown Distillery Tour: Exploring the Bourbon Making Process

A key feature of The Bardstown Distillery Tour is the in-depth look at the bourbon production process. From grain to glass, visitors witness the meticulous steps involved in crafting bourbon. This includes the mashing process, fermentation, distillation, aging, and bottling. Each step is carefully detailed, offering a thorough understanding of the art and science behind bourbon production.

Tasting Sessions: Sampling Kentucky’s Finest

The highlight of the tour is undoubtedly the tasting sessions. Participants have the opportunity to sample some of the finest bourbons produced in Bardstown. Guided by the expertise of Bourbon Town Tours, these tastings provide insight into the unique flavor profiles and characteristics that define each distillery’s bourbon.

Bardstown’s Bourbon Heritage and Culture

The Bardstown Distillery Tour, as a crucial part of Bourbon Town Tours, emphasizes Bardstown’s storied place in Kentucky’s bourbon culture. The tour showcases how the city’s history and distilleries have shaped and been shaped by the bourbon industry, offering a comprehensive view of Bardstown’s contribution to the bourbon legacy.

Sustainability and Modern Distilling Practices

Throughout the tour, attention is given to the sustainability efforts and modern distilling practices of Bardstown’s distilleries. This aspect highlights the distilleries’ commitment to environmental stewardship and innovation in bourbon production.

Beyond the Distilleries: Exploring Bardstown

In addition to distillery visits, The Bardstown Distillery Tour encourages exploration of the city itself. Bourbon Town Tours guides visitors through Bardstown’s historical sites, cultural landmarks, and local culinary offerings, enriching the overall bourbon experience.

A Tour for Everyone Designed to cater to a diverse range of interests, The Bardstown Distillery Tour appeals to both bourbon enthusiasts and newcomers. The tour’s informative and interactive nature ensures that every participant gains a deeper appreciation for the craft of bourbon making.

Engagement with the Bourbon Community

The Bardstown Distillery Tour also highlights the role of the distilleries in the local community. The tour illustrates how these distilleries contribute to Bardstown’s vibrant culture, emphasizing their involvement in local events and the promotion of Kentucky’s bourbon heritage.

Join The Bardstown Distillery Tour with Bourbon Town Tours

The Bardstown Distillery Tour, as part of the Bourbon Town Tours offerings, provides an insightful and thorough exploration of Kentucky’s bourbon tradition in one of its most celebrated locales. Whether you’re a seasoned bourbon aficionado or a curious visitor, this tour promises an engaging and enlightening experience.

We invite you to join The Bardstown Distillery Tour with Bourbon Town Tours and immerse yourself in the rich history and exquisite craftsmanship of Kentucky bourbon. Book your tour now and take part in an unforgettable journey through Bardstown, a city at the heart of America’s bourbon country. Don’t miss this opportunity to experience the unique traditions, flavors, and community spirit that make Bardstown a pivotal destination in the bourbon world.

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