Buffalo Trace,Four Roses,Woodford,Bulleit Frontier/Stitzel, Castle&Key or Jeptha

Bourbon enthusiasts seeking a deep dive into the rich history and production methods of some of Kentucky’s most renowned distilleries are in for a treat. From the venerable Buffalo Trace, which has been operating since 1769, to the innovative newcomers like Castle & Key, these distilleries offer visitors a blend of tradition and modern techniques. Whether it’s uncovering the secret recipe behind the coveted Pappy Van Winkle line or marveling at the impressive rickhouses, a tour of these distilleries promises to captivate the senses and leave guests with a newfound appreciation for the art of bourbon-making.

Key Points

• Buffalo Trace is the oldest continuously operating distillery in the U.S. since 1769, offering tastings of flagship brands and a glimpse into the Pappy Van Winkle line.
• Four Roses is known for its signature yellow label and five yeast strains, producing award-winning bourbons with a unique production process and picturesque grounds.
• Woodford Reserve is renowned for its small-batch production, triple copper pot distillation, and the use of limestone-filtered spring water from the property.
• Bulleit Frontier/Stitzel-Weller distillery has a storied past in Kentucky bourbon production, offering tastings of frontier-inspired bourbon with complex flavors.
• Castle & Key is a modern facility with a 19th-century castle-inspired building, featuring a botanical garden, spring house, and small-batch, ultra-premium spirit offerings.

Tour Overview and Inclusions

This customizable group tour of Louisville’s bourbon distilleries provides visitors with the opportunity to experience four famous distilleries, including Buffalo Trace and Bulleit Distilling Co.

The tour includes tastings at two of the distilleries and complimentary bottled water for the group, which is limited to a maximum of 32 travelers.

Pickup is available from hotels in Downtown Louisville, and the tour ends at the meeting point of 21c Museum Hotel Louisville.

The tour price starts at $239.99, and it’s non-refundable, with no refunds for cancellations.

Moderate physical fitness is required, and the tour isn’t recommended for travelers with back problems or those who require wheelchair accessibility.

Meeting and Pickup Details

The meeting point for this Louisville bourbon distillery tour is the 21c Museum Hotel Louisville, located at 700 W Main St, Louisville, KY 40202.

Pickup options are available for travelers, with the tour ending back at the same meeting point.

The tour takes visitors to a total of four distilleries, subject to availability, with tastings at two of them.

Travelers are advised to be at the meeting point on time, as the tour operates on a strict schedule.

The tour isn’t recommended for those with back problems or mobility issues, as moderate physical fitness is required.

Distillery Highlights: Buffalo Trace

Buffalo Trace is one of the most renowned bourbon distilleries featured on the Louisville tour. The distillery’s history dates back to 1769, making it the oldest continuously operating distillery in the United States.

Visitors can explore the iconic limestone buildings, learn about the distillation process, and sample the award-winning bourbons.

Key highlights of the Buffalo Trace experience include:

• Tasting the distillery’s flagship brands, such as Buffalo Trace and Eagle Rare
• Discovering the secret recipe for the coveted Pappy Van Winkle line
• Viewing the massive rickhouses where the bourbon matures
• Learning about the distillery’s sustainable practices
• Exploring the onsite bottling facility and gift shop.

Distillery Highlights: Four Roses

Another distillery featured on the Louisville tour is Four Roses. Renowned for its signature yellow label, Four Roses produces a range of award-winning bourbons using a unique recipe of five different yeast strains.

Visitors can explore the distillery’s storied history, learn about its unique production process, and sample the brand’s portfolio, including its flagship Small Batch and Single Barrel expressions.

With its picturesque grounds and commitment to quality, Four Roses is a must-visit for bourbon enthusiasts on the Louisville tour. The distillery’s knowledgeable guides provide an engaging and informative experience, leaving guests with a deeper appreciation for the art of bourbon making.

Distillery Highlights: Woodford Reserve

One of the most renowned distilleries on the Louisville tour is Woodford Reserve. Established in 1812, Woodford Reserve is known for its small-batch production and unique flavor profile.

During the tour, visitors can explore the historic limestone buildings, learn about the distilling process, and sample the award-winning bourbon.

Some key features of Woodford Reserve include:

• Triple copper pot distillation for a smoother taste
• Aging in new charred oak barrels for a rich, complex flavor
• Use of limestone-filtered spring water from the property
• Production of both bourbon and rye whiskeys
• Impressive on-site cooperage for barrel production

Distillery Highlights: Bulleit Frontier/Stitzel-Weller

Following the tour of Woodford Reserve, visitors are introduced to the Bulleit Frontier/Stitzel-Weller distillery.

This historic site boasts a storied past, having produced some of Kentucky’s most renowned bourbons. Guests can explore the original Stitzel-Weller distillery, learning about its role in shaping the bourbon industry.

The tour highlights the distillery’s unique architectural features and provides insights into the meticulous distillation process that gives Bulleit its distinctive character.

Tastings allow visitors to savor the complex flavors and aromas that have made Bulleit’s frontier-inspired bourbon a beloved classic.

With its rich heritage and dedication to quality, the Bulleit Frontier/Stitzel-Weller distillery offers a captivating glimpse into the art of bourbon-making.

Distillery Highlights: Castle & Key

After exploring the historic Bulleit Frontier/Stitzel-Weller distillery, the tour moves on to the striking Castle & Key distillery.

This modern facility features:

• A 19th-century castle-inspired building that houses the distillery’s operations.
• A botanical garden and spring house, which play a vital role in the distilling process.
• A focus on crafting small-batch, ultra-premium spirits using traditional methods.
• Guided tours that provide an in-depth look at the distillery’s unique history and production.
• Tastings that allow visitors to sample the distillery’s signature offerings, including its gin and bourbon.

Distillery Highlights: Jeptha Creed

The Jeptha Creed distillery stands out as another captivating stop on the bourbon trail. Founded in 2016, this family-owned operation focuses on crafting premium spirits using heirloom corn and natural ingredients.

Visitors can explore the distillery’s state-of-the-art facilities and learn about the meticulous distillation process. Tastings showcase the complex flavors of Jeptha Creed’s small-batch bourbons, which have earned numerous awards.

Beyond bourbon, the distillery also produces distinctive gins, rums, and vodkas. With its picturesque rural setting and commitment to quality, Jeptha Creed offers an engaging and memorable experience for whiskey enthusiasts.

The distillery’s innovative approach and dedication to tradition make it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Kentucky’s thriving bourbon culture.

Recap

On this comprehensive tour, visitors will explore the rich history and modern practices of some of Kentucky’s most renowned distilleries. From the iconic Buffalo Trace to the innovative Castle & Key, each stop offers a unique glimpse into the art of bourbon-making. With expert guides, tastings, and behind-the-scenes access, this experience is a must for any bourbon enthusiast seeking to enjoy the traditions and evolution of this celebrated American spirit.