Experience the Best of Kentucky Bourbon in Lexington – A Summer Tour Guide
For bourbon enthusiasts and travelers alike, the epic city of Lexington, Kentucky is hosting tours of eight magnificent bourbon distilleries this summer. While tours at some of the big-name distilleries may be sold out, there are several local bourbon makers that provide equally captivating bourbon experiences.
A Tour of the Lexington Bourbon Landscape
Whether you are planning an outing or an evening excursion, you would be spoilt with choices of distilleries each offering something unique. From the subtle charm of Bluegrass Distillers Downtown, noted as a “hidden gem” to the fun-filled cocktail trails at Barrel House Distilling Co.’s Elkhorn Tavern, Lexington promises unforgettable bourbon-focused experiences.
The city also offers distillery tours if you desire a more comprehensive understanding of the bourbon-making process. Visit places like the Dark Arts Whiskey House, where you can personalize your blend of whiskey or immerse in an enlightening mixology class at Fresh Bourbon Distillery.
A Hidden Gem in the City
Bluegrass Distillers Downtown offers a unique experience in a smaller setting. Unlike larger distilleries which can be overwhelming for visitors, this location sees everything done on a smaller scale, old-school style, providing an intimate atmosphere where visitors can easily grasp the process of whiskey making all within a 2,000 square foot area.
Coming Soon: New Distillery at Elkwood Farm
Ensuring continued visitor excitement, Bluegrass Distillers is also in the process of finishing construction on a large distillery at their Elkwood Farm site in Midway.
Experience Bourbon Whiskey at Barrel House Distilling Co.
Barrel House Distilling Co. located in the barreling house of the old Pepper Distillery offers an hour-long tour and tasting for just $10. The cocktail lovers would not want to miss the lounge and taproom, Elkhorn Tavern, which is part of a growing entertainment complex gaining popularity.
Bluegrass Distillers Downtown – A Delightful Tour
Whether you have a day or just a few hours to spare, a stop at Bluegrass Distillers Downtown would surely be rewarding. Here you can tour the bright, white-washed brick distillery and sample their current flagship products for about $16.50.
Aged Bourbon with a Twist at Bespoken Spirits
This California-founded bourbon maker Bespoken Spirits offers an innovative approach to aging bourbon. Among other things, their “Tailored-Wood Finishing” procedure allows for a hand-selected range of bespoke flavors to infuse into their whiskey, creating a unique tasting experience.
Create Your Own Blend at Dark Arts Whiskey House
Dark Arts Whiskey House offers an unconventional approach to whiskey blending and barrel picks which sets them apart as a must-visit distillery in Lexington.
Enjoy the Finesse and Flavors at Fresh Bourbon Distillery
Fresh Bourbon is another addition to the landscape emerging as one of the first Black-owned labels in Kentucky. Known for their gently sweet and approachable bourbon, visitors are guided through making their own cocktail, making for an engaging tour experience.
Extended Pleasures
Aside from these, Lexington offers additional bourbon attractions. Companies like James E. Pepper Distillery, Lexington Brewing and Distilling Co., and RD1 Spirits offer specialised bourbon products and distillery tours, expanding the interesting palette of bourbon experiences.
Conclusion
With diverse offerings, each distillery in Lexington showcases a unique perspective to the bourbon industry. The city itself invites visitors to partake in its rich heritage of bourbon making, providing experiences that cater to both beginners and whiskey connoisseurs. For anyone looking to immerse in the craft of bourbon making, Lexington is truly a city not to miss.
