Nine Kentucky distilleries make 95% of the world’s bourbon, and seven are open to the public. See the state’s claim to fame – the Kentucky Bourbon Trail – offering a fascinating glimpse of pre- and post-Prohibition American history.
Known as the Bourbon Capital of the World, Kentucky boasts seven distilleries and several other sites that are open to tourists. The distinctive spirit is pure Americana, with 95% of the world supply manufactured in-state. Part of what makes bourbon unique from other whiskeys is the ingredients, which include local corn and Kentucky spring water, distinguished by its high limestone content. Plan your trip to coincide with the annual Bourbon Festival in late September to enjoy the celebration, with tours, dancing, and exclusive bourbon inspired recipes. Visitors are welcome year round for a look at the inner workings of the bourbon industry.
Barton Distillery and Visitor Center (1792)
Guests age 13 and up can see every step of the process in this operating distillery, from the time corn arrives at the facility through packaging of the finished product. Tours run hourly from Monday – Saturday and require no entrance fee.
Heaven Hill Distilleries Bourbon Heritage Center
Engaging exhibits allow visitors to interact, examining bourbon’s beginnings, as well as the manufacturing process. A movie screening brings you inside history, and you will tour a rickhouse, where bourbon is stored while it ages.
Jim Beam American Outpost
Six generations of the Beam family distilled bourbon, and you will have the opportunity to get to know them all at this museum. The 1911 home of Jeremiah Beam, son of Jim Beam, still stands, and it is open for guests to see.
Maker’s Mark Distillery
Now a national landmark, the Maker’s Mark Distillery is a great chance to see how the famous bourbon is made. Since the distillery still operates, you even have the opportunity to put the legendary red wax seal on a bottle of your own.
The Oscar Getz Museum of Whiskey History
Artifacts from the earliest American era through Prohibition and beyond are on display in this bourbon lover’s paradise. Check out a real still used to make moonshine, as well as antique bottles, and artwork advertising the beverage throughout its earliest history.
Chapeze House, the Kentucky Bourbon House
With all day bourbon tastings, afternoon Bourbon Cooking School, and evening bourbon-themed dinner, the Chapeze House/Kentucky Bourbon House is a required stop for any bourbon lover. Don’t miss this shrine to the best bourbon in the world when you visit Kentucky’s Bourbon Trail.
When you are ready to taste test your way through six Kentucky bourbon distilleries and landmarks, buy us dollars online and check prices out on MyTravelMoney.co.uk
