Touring the Kentucky Bourbon Trail: A Roadmap For Your Tastebuds 

There’s a reason the Bluegrass State is so renowned for its bourbon. With its incredible views, humid climate, and time-tested traditions, it’s been crafting for over 200 years. If you’re looking for a little backroad adventure, the Kentucky Bourbon Trail is the perfect way to take a sip through history. Guiding you through beautiful cities such as Louisville and Lexington, with scenic small towns in between, the Bourbon Trail is a self-guided tour that will change your life.

It offers visitors a chance to experience world-class drinks, all complete with the kind of slow-paced hospitality that Kentucky does best.

What is the Kentucky Bourbon Trail?

While Prince was partying in 1999, the Kentucky Bourbon Trail was too. Launched by the Kentucky Distillers’ Association, it was designed to showcase some of the most legendary distilleries in the area. Throughout the years, it’s grown to include some big-name producers as well as small, artisan outfits, each offering a unique take on bourbon making. 

Some “classic” stops include:

• Maker’s Mark: Famous for their red wax-dipped bottles, they offer an on-site restaurant in addition to their drinks.
• James B. Beam: This historic distillery, with over 200 years of generational craft, is a must-visit on the trail. Take a journey through their historic grounds and taste some of their premium Jim Beam bourbon.
• Woodford Reserve: As a National Historic Landmark, Woodford Reserve Distillery delivers smooth, carefully crafted drinks, perfectly balanced for your tasting pleasures.
• Four Roses: Take in the immaculate views of rolling hills while enjoying your drink on Four Roses’ outdoor patio. With two unique grain recipes, you’ll taste the high-quality difference in every sip.
• Wild Turkey: Three new indoor and outdoor bars bring Bourbon-making traditions to life. Enjoy signature cocktails alongside views of the Kentucky river.

With so many distilleries, we could spend all day talking about each and every one. However, the Kentucky Bourbon Trail has an in-depth list, as well as a map, of each stop along the way.

Kentucky: The Heart of Bourbon

There’s quite a few reasons why Kentucky is the undisputed capital of bourbon. Let’s explore some of those reasons.

Water

First of all, the natural limestone in Kentucky’s water filters out iron. That’s a huge win for distillers, because the calcium in the water helps yeast thrive, positively affecting the overall fermentation process.

Climate

Kentucky’s hot summers and cold winters are ideal for helping barrels breathe. With the temperature swinging, bourbon expands into and contrasts out of the charred oak barrels. This pulls in the rich flavors that are so sought after, like vanilla, caramel, and spice. 

Legacy

Finally, the legacy of Kentucky. So many families (like the Beam family listed above) have been distilling bourbon for generations. They’ve honed their skills, passed down secrets, and built an identity around their craft. It isn’t just business here, it’s part of their DNA.

What to Expect as You Sip

You can expect the following at most of your stops:

• Guided Tours: Although the trail itself is self-guided, the individual distilleries tend to offer guided tours. They help showcase the distillation process, aging and bottling of the various drinks.
• Tastings: Usually with your visit are tastings, where you can try premium blends and limited releases.
• Cocktail Experience: Some distilleries offer cocktails with small bites for your enjoyment.
• Gift Shops: You could leave with a bottle (or three) or your favorites for your home bar!

While bourbon is the main star, it’s worth noting that some distilleries offer ryes, wheat whiskeys, and specialty releases. A few standouts to try are:

• Maker’s Mark 46
• Woodford Reserve Double Oaked
• Russell’s Reserve 10-Year
• Four Roses Single Barrel
• Elijah Craig Small Batch
  

Best Tips to Ensure a Good Tour

The Kentucky Bourbon Trail spans across central Kentucky, so planning goes a long way. Here’s a few pointers for a smooth trip:

1. Book tours in advance: Weekends and holidays are sure to fill up quickly. Calling in advance can guarantee your tour spot.
2. Start early: To make the most of your day, try to hit two or three visits a day. Most tours operate between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
3. Designated driver: Plan on either paying for a taxi or driving service, or having someone as a designated driver for your group’s safety.
4. Eat well: There are a ton of great restaurants in the surrounding cities. Make sure you don’t try to drink bourbon on an empty stomach.
5. Take your time: The best experiences in life are the ones that aren’t rushed. Take your time and enjoy the countryside.