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Kentucky’s Bourbon Trail Hidden Distilleries Revealed

Published:

by Sybyl Chau

kentuckys-bourbon-trail-hidden-distilleries-revealed

Ever thought about exploring Kentucky's Bourbon Trail but want to avoid the crowds? You're in luck! Kentucky is home to some lesser-known distilleries that offer unique experiences without the hustle and bustle. These hidden gems provide a more intimate look at the bourbon-making process, allowing you to savor every moment. From family-owned operations to innovative newcomers, these distilleries showcase the rich history and craftsmanship of Kentucky bourbon. Whether you're a seasoned bourbon enthusiast or a curious newcomer, visiting these spots will give you a fresh perspective on what makes Kentucky bourbon so special. Ready to discover the hidden distilleries of the Bourbon Trail? Let's dive in!

Kentucky's Bourbon Trail: Hidden Distilleries Revealed

Kentucky's Bourbon Trail is famous for its big names like Maker's Mark and Jim Beam. But, tucked away in the rolling hills and small towns, there are lesser-known distilleries crafting unique spirits. These hidden gems offer a more intimate experience, often with rich histories and distinctive flavors.

1. Willett Distillery

Willett Distillery, located in Bardstown, is a family-owned operation with a long history. Established in 1936, it produces small-batch bourbon and rye. The distillery's scenic grounds and historic buildings make it a charming stop.

Highlights:

  • Family-owned since 1936
  • Small-batch bourbon and rye
  • Scenic grounds and historic buildings

2. Wilderness Trail Distillery

In Danville, Wilderness Trail Distillery combines tradition with innovation. Using a sweet mash process, they produce bourbon and rye with a unique flavor profile. The distillery also focuses on sustainability, making it a forward-thinking choice.

Highlights:

  • Sweet mash process
  • Bourbon and rye with unique flavors
  • Focus on sustainability

3. New Riff Distilling

New Riff Distilling in Newport prides itself on being independently owned. They emphasize quality over quantity, producing bourbon and rye with a high rye content. Their modern facility offers a sleek contrast to the traditional distilleries.

Highlights:

  • Independently owned
  • High rye content bourbon and rye
  • Modern facility

4. Castle & Key Distillery

Castle & Key Distillery, located in Frankfort, is housed in a restored historic distillery. The beautiful grounds include a sunken garden and a springhouse. They produce bourbon, rye, and gin, offering a diverse tasting experience.

Highlights:

  • Restored historic distillery
  • Beautiful grounds with a sunken garden
  • Bourbon, rye, and gin

5. Kentucky Peerless Distilling Co.

Kentucky Peerless Distilling Co. in Louisville has roots dating back to the 1880s. After a long hiatus, the family revived the brand in 2015. They focus on small-batch bourbon and rye, using a sweet mash process for a rich flavor.

Highlights:

  • Roots dating back to the 1880s
  • Revived in 2015
  • Small-batch bourbon and rye with a sweet mash process

6. Limestone Branch Distillery

Limestone Branch Distillery in Lebanon is another family-owned gem. They produce Yellowstone bourbon, named after the national park. The distillery also offers unique spirits like moonshine and gin, making it a versatile stop.

Highlights:

  • Family-owned
  • Yellowstone bourbon
  • Moonshine and gin

7. MB Roland Distillery

MB Roland Distillery in Pembroke stands out for its grain-to-glass approach. They grow their own grains and use a white corn mash bill. The distillery produces bourbon, moonshine, and dark-fired whiskey, offering a range of flavors.

Highlights:

  • Grain-to-glass approach
  • White corn mash bill
  • Bourbon, moonshine, and dark-fired whiskey

8. Hartfield & Co.

Hartfield & Co. in Paris is the first legal distillery in Bourbon County since Prohibition. They focus on small-batch production, using local grains. The distillery's bourbon and rye have a distinct, robust flavor.

Highlights:

  • First legal distillery in Bourbon County since Prohibition
  • Small-batch production with local grains
  • Distinct, robust flavor

9. Barrel House Distilling Co.

Barrel House Distilling Co. in Lexington operates out of a historic barreling house. They produce bourbon, rum, and vodka, offering a variety of spirits. The distillery's small size allows for a personalized tour experience.

Highlights:

  • Historic barreling house
  • Bourbon, rum, and vodka
  • Personalized tour experience

10. Bluegrass Distillers

Bluegrass Distillers in Lexington is a craft distillery with a focus on organic ingredients. They produce bourbon and rye with a high wheat content, resulting in a smooth, sweet flavor. The distillery's commitment to quality shines through in every bottle.

Highlights:

  • Focus on organic ingredients
  • High wheat content bourbon and rye
  • Smooth, sweet flavor

Discovering Kentucky's Hidden Bourbon Gems

Kentucky's Bourbon Trail offers more than just the well-known distilleries. Hidden gems like Wilderness Trail Distillery, New Riff Distilling, and Castle & Key Distillery provide unique experiences and flavors. These lesser-known spots showcase the rich history and craftsmanship behind bourbon making. Visiting these distilleries gives you a deeper appreciation for the art of bourbon production. You get to meet passionate distillers, learn about innovative techniques, and taste exclusive batches. Exploring these hidden distilleries adds a new layer to your bourbon journey. It’s not just about the big names; it’s about discovering the heart and soul of Kentucky bourbon. So next time you’re on the Bourbon Trail, take a detour to these hidden treasures. You’ll find that the best bourbon experiences often come from the most unexpected places. Cheers to new adventures and unforgettable sips!