Bourbon Distillery Tours in Frankfort, KY by Neat Kentucky Tours

Bourbon Heritage Tour: Frankfort, Kentucky – A Journey Through Time and Taste

Nestled in the scenic heart of Kentucky, Frankfort—our state’s proud capital—is a cornerstone of bourbon’s storied heritage. With 13 celebrated distilleries just a short drive away, this region offers an unforgettable journey through the origins, evolution, and innovation of America’s Native Spirit. For bourbon lovers, Frankfort is nothing short of paradise.

Stretching from the iconic Buffalo Trace Distillery to the historic Versailles Courthouse, this area represents the birthplace of bourbon craftsmanship. Along the serene banks of Glenn’s Creek in nearby Woodford County, pioneers such as Elijah Pepper, Oscar Pepper, and James Pepper, and industry visionaries like James C. Crow and E.H. Taylor Jr. revolutionized the world of whiskey-making. Their legacy lives on in every barrel, bottle, and glass.

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Each distillery in the region offers a unique chapter in bourbon’s rich story—from traditional aging methods to experimental blends, and from historical tours to hands-on tastings. Whether you’re a seasoned bourbon aficionado or sipping your first pour, Frankfort’s bourbon scene welcomes you with open arms and a glass full of history.

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Explore Frankfort’s Bourbon Trail Distilleries

Frankfort is a treasure trove of bourbon distilleries, and our tours take you through some of the most iconic ones. You'll visit distilleries that have been family-owned for generations, each offering a unique story and flavor profile. Depending on time and tour availability, a typical custom experience includes 3 to 4 distillery visits and a stop for a relaxing lunch. Here are some of the standout stops along the way:

 

These are just a few of the highlights given below:

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1.  Buffalo Trace Distillery

A true icon in the bourbon world, Buffalo Trace Distillery is a National Historic Landmark and the longest continuously operating distillery in the United States. Originally known as the O.F.C. Distillery and purchased by E.H. Taylor Jr. in 1870, it set the standard for modernization and excellence in bourbon production. Today, Buffalo Trace combines traditional methods with state-of-the-art innovation, producing some of the most award-winning bourbons in the industry. A must-see on any bourbon tour, this distillery offers a rich historical backdrop and exceptional tasting experiences.

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2. J. Mattingly Distillery

For those seeking a boutique and personalized experience, J. Mattingly Distillery delivers handcrafted small-batch bourbons like no other. Known for its custom bottlings and attention to detail, it provides a unique opportunity to create your own blend, label, and story. This intimate distillery adds a distinctive and interactive element to your bourbon adventure.

 

3. Castle & Key Distillery

Once known as the Old Taylor Distillery, Castle & Key was founded in 1887 by E.H. Taylor Jr. and built to be the world’s first “destination distillery.” Its striking castle-inspired architecture and manicured gardens reflect Taylor’s grand vision. After decades of neglect, the distillery has been meticulously restored, combining its historic charm with modern bourbon-making practices. It stands today as a shining example of Kentucky bourbon heritage reborn.

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4. Glenn’s Creek Distillery

Located on the historic grounds of the Old Crow Distillery, Glenn’s Creek Distillery traces its roots back to 1869. The site is historically significant for the perfection of the sour mash method, developed by James Crow. Revived by David Meier, Glenn’s Creek now produces high-quality small-batch spirits, restoring life to one of bourbon’s most legendary sites.

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5. Woodford Reserve

Woodford Reserve is another National Historic Landmark with a deep legacy in bourbon production. Originally founded by Elijah Pepper in the early 1800s, it became the site where James C. Crow introduced scientific techniques that revolutionized the distillation process. Nestled among the rolling hills and iconic limestone buildings of Kentucky, Woodford Reserve is known for its premium bourbons and ongoing sponsorship of the Kentucky Derby.

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6. Wild Turkey Distillery

Overlooking the Kentucky River, Wild Turkey is known for its bold bourbon flavors and breathtaking views. The brand’s legacy is carried by Master Distiller Jimmy Russell, a legendary figure with over 60 years in the industry. This distillery is a must-visit for those who enjoy classic, robust bourbon with a rich history to match.

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7. Four Roses Distillery

Just a short distance from Wild Turkey, Four Roses Distillery offers a contrast in both architecture and flavor. With its charming Spanish Mission-style design and smooth, floral-forward bourbon expressions, it stands out as one of Kentucky’s most romantic distilleries. The experience is as elegant as the bourbon itself.

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8. Whiskey Thief Distilling Co.

For hands-on bourbon lovers, Whiskey Thief Distilling Co. provides a rare opportunity to sample bourbon straight from the barrel. Focused on small-batch aging and innovation, visitors can engage in the distillation process and gain a deeper understanding of the art of bourbon-making in an authentic, no-frills environment.

 

9. Bulleit Frontier Whiskey

Bulleit Distilling Co. combines frontier spirit with modern sophistication. Recognized for its high-rye content and iconic bottle design, Bulleit brings a bold and balanced taste to the table. The facility itself is sleek and modern, offering an immersive tour into one of bourbon’s most recognizable contemporary brands.

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10. James E. Pepper Distillery

Reopened to honor the legacy of the Pepper family, James E. Pepper Distillery was once the largest in the country. Today, it stands as a symbol of revival and heritage in Lexington’s vibrant bourbon scene. The distillery tells a powerful story of American whiskey history and innovation.

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11. Barrel House Distilling Co.

Located in the historic Lexington Distillery District, Barrel House represents a new generation of distillers. Their small-batch approach and passion for flavor experimentation make for a refreshing stop on your bourbon trail, offering craft spirits that stand out from the crowd.

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12. Fresh Bourbon Distilling Co.

Fresh Bourbon brings innovation and diversity to the forefront. As one of Lexington’s newer additions, this distillery focuses on fresh, modern takes on traditional bourbon. It's a bold and creative force in the industry, welcoming visitors to experience bourbon with a fresh perspective.

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13. Town Branch Distillery

Offering both bourbon and beer, Town Branch Distillery is one of the few dual facilities in Kentucky. Visitors can enjoy a comprehensive tasting experience that includes award-winning bourbon and craft beer, all in one place. It’s a perfect ending—or beginning—to any Lexington distillery tour.

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Schedule a Consultation now and let us help you plan your perfect bourbon tour. We’ll handle all the details, so all you have to do is show up and enjoy! Don’t wait—book your bourbon distillery tours in Frankfort, KY today and discover why Kentucky is the world’s bourbon capital.