Bardstown Bourbon Tours - BourbonSphere

The Latest on New Bardstown Distilleries & Bar Openings

By far, the most popular attractions in our area are the Bardstown distilleries! Guests flock from all over the country to taste these impeccably crafted bourbons and tour these impressive establishments. And while we’ve always had our go-to favorite distilleries in Bardstown to recommend, there have been some new additions to the list lately, and a few more are coming soon. It’s always a treat to check out the new distilleries, often introducing modern techniques and an even more immersive experience for visitors.

One of the most anticipated openings was on National Bourbon Day in June, and it wasn’t a distillery but the brand-new iteration of our beloved Bunghole Bar and Lounge on-site at our bed and breakfast. As many of our past guests and friends of Bourbon Manor know, our bourbon bar burned down in the summer of 2020. Finally, after years of planning, the new version of the Bunghole Bar is up and running, welcoming bourbon lovers back for cocktails, happy hour, and lively evenings out on the town.

For those planning an overnight getaway to Bardstown, staying at the Bourbon Manor Bed and Breakfast is now even more fun with the re-opening of our bar. There’s no better place to enjoy a nightcap and then stroll our pretty grounds back to your guest room. In the mornings, there is no need to worry about hurrying out to breakfast; we’ll make it for you. Our hearty, tried-and-true Southern recipes won’t disappoint and are served in our elegant dining room. Start planning your next getaway to explore the new Bardstown distilleries, and book the best bed and breakfast today!

New Bardstown Distilleries & Latest Updates on Openings

There’s always new and exciting news in the bourbon industry in Kentucky, with a lot of Bardstown distilleries expanding, vintage releases, and new openings. Our place on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail is home to a handful of some of the best bourbon distilleries this state has to offer, and the list keeps getting longer.

Whiskey House of Kentucky: The three founders of Bardstown Bourbon Company, David Mandell, John Hargrove, and Daniel Linde, are moving into new territory with the opening of Whiskey House. This state-of-the-art distilling setup is for private projects, working on high-end and more experimental products. While this distillery isn’t open to the public, it’s still a welcome addition to Elizabethtown.
Old SteelHouse Distillery: Once an abandoned distillery, Old SteelHouse has been a part of Kentucky bourbon since 1844. The site sat empty for about 50 years and will soon hold regular visiting hours for tastings and tours.
Clermont Distilling Co.: There hasn’t been a recent update on the status of this new distillery, which is planned to become the first stop on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail. However, keep your eye out for a new production facility and visitor center on a 55-acre site that spans both sides of State Route 245.
Kentucky Owl Whiskey: Another possible addition, Kentucky Owl, has big plans for a beautifully architecturally designed bourbon paradise in Bardstown. When this project is completed, it will need to be one of the Bardstown distilleries on your itinerary!
Willett Distillery Expansion: A long-time favorite of the Bardstown distilleries, the family-owned Willett is expanding to the nearby town of Springfield, KY. The new location will be home to the family’s assortment of whiskeys, including favorites such as Willett Pot Still Reserve and Willett Family Estate rye, as well as more widely available options like Noah’s Mill, Rowan’s Creek, and Johnny Drum. Unlike the original estate, which is open for tours and has The Bar at Willett restaurant, this new distillery will emphasize production rather than hosting visitors.
Heaven Hill Expansion: In 2022, Heaven Hill broke ground on a new $135 million distillery in Bardstown. The distillery will be named Heaven Hill Springs Distillery in honor of the Old Heaven Hill Springs Distillery, built in 1935 and burned down in 1996. This new facility marks Heaven Hill’s return to distilling in Bardstown after nearly 30 years. Initially, the new distillery will have an annual production capacity of 150,000 barrels, eventually expanding to 450,000 barrels over time. This expansion will make it the same size as Heaven Hill’s Bernheim distillery and will likely open in 2025.

The Best Bar in Bardstown is Open Now at Bourbon Manor Bed and Breakfast

The Bunghole Bar and Lounge reopened on National Bourbon Day 2024. This award-winning barn design is a striking black monitor-style structure, similar to what is being constructed at new Bardstown distilleries for expansion projects. The two-story vaulted ceiling is framed by expansive windows and doors and a large bar featuring the best bourbons, local and international wines, and craft beer. The ultra-chic up-scale design will transport you, and there’s plenty of fantastic lounge and patio seating where you can sit back and relax with your favorite cocktail.

The Bunghole Bar is open to guests and the public. Its hours are 5-10 p.m. daily, including Sundays! Happy Hours are 5-7 p.m. nightly, and each night, there is a new artisanal hand-crafted bourbon cocktail, a drink recipe, and a demonstration on making it at home. For those staying at the Bourbon Manor Bed and Breakfast, enjoying a drink at the bar will be a highlight of your stay, and you’ll just be a short walk back to your luxurious guest room.

With the reopening of our bar space, we truly feel that our boutique property is complete! The barn is also available for weddings, private events, corporate business retreats, and parties, which is incredibly convenient with our on-site lodging options. We have the perfect setup with seven guest rooms in the Manor (Main House) and three additional guest rooms in the Federal House (Guest Cottage) in a separate, private residence on the property. Contact us for whole-house buy-outs, or make your traditional room reservation today!

Head to the Iconic Maker’s Mark Distillery

Maker’s Mark Distillery is one of the must-visit Kentucky distilleries near Bardstown. It’s a bourbon lover’s dream destination! The iconic red waxed bottle is recognized worldwide, and the brand started at Star Hill Farm in Loretto, Kentucky, in 1953. This bourbon has been crafted the same way for three generations—a family recipe perfected and passed down. It began as a quest to create a bourbon that the Samuel family enjoyed drinking and sharing with friends, and today, it’s one of the most well-known bourbons in the nation.

A bourbon lover visiting the Maker’s Mark Distillery has been compared to a child going to Disneyland for the first time! It’s an immersive experience in a beautiful location with hands-on activities, detailed tours, and history, along with tastings and purchase options. Whether exploring the distillery or the 1100 acres with beautiful American oak trees—there’s a lovely selection of curated tours and tastings.

Before you start booking your Maker’s Mark distillery tours, you’ll want to secure your lodging, and our Bardstown Bed and Breakfasts is the best place to stay on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail. Not only is our historic Inn comfortable and spacious, but our immaculate guest rooms are all designed with couples in mind, with a charming bourbon-themed name for each space. We’ll send you off on your adventures with a hearty breakfast, the perfect start to a day in Bardstown tasting and touring the local distilleries. Book your lodging today!

The Iconic Maker's Mark Distillery & More Bardstown Distilleries

Bourbon lovers feel right at home in Bardstown, Kentucky, the Bourbon Capital of the World and sits right at the heart of the Kentucky Bourbon Trail—while Maker’s Mark Distillery is located about 30 minutes from Bardstown (well worth the quick road trip!), you’ll find a great selection of distilleries within minutes of our bed and breakfast as well.

Here are your tasting and tour options at the Maker’s Mark distillery:

The Remarkable Experience: This is the most expansive experience that this Kentucky distillery explores behind the scenes at the distillery and the stunning nature of Heritage Lake and Star Hill Farm. You’ll witness firsthand every aspect of the bottling, aging, and production. Along the way, you’ll indulge in unique tastes and finish with a toast out by the pristine waters of the lake. This tour is approximately 2.5 hours.
Behind the Bourbon: More interested in the distilling process? This tour is perfect for those true fans, accessing far reaches of the distillery, warehouse, cellar, cistern, and bottling.
The Maker’s Mark Distillery Tour: The most popular touring option, an experienced guide will teach you the history of the Maker’s Mark Distillery brand. This tour stays mostly outdoors and consists of about 1/4 mile of walking on the beautiful campus.
Marker’s Mark Distillery Art & Design Tour: If you’re a fan of bourbon but also love art and design, this is the special tour for you. Star Hill Farms is home to over 20 original art pieces and structures. This 90-minute experience will take you across the campus with a trained guide, who will describe each piece and share some information about the artist. You’ll wrap up with a pour of the classic bourbon under the iconic Dale Chihuly piece, The Spirit Of The Maker.

Other Bardstown Distilleries to Add to Your Itinerary:

A trip to Maker’s Mark Distillery is always a treat! However, here is a list of our favorite Bardstown distilleries near the Bourbon Manor Bed and Breakfast:

Heaven Hill Bourbon Experience: For an immersive tour, tasting, and museum experience, this is one of the best distilleries in Bardstown to visit during your stay.
Lux Row Distillers: With five distinct brands under one roof, bourbon lovers will love the variety at a tasting and tour here.
Bardstown Bourbon Company: This local distillery is known for its modern approach and state-of-the-art facility in Bardstown. Head here for hands-on tours, tastings, and cocktail classes.
Preservation Distillery & Farm: Specializing in very small batch bourbon with unique releases, you’ll try traditional pot still bourbons at this beautiful and pastoral location in Bardstown.
Willett Distillery: This long-time distillery is a classic spot for tastings, tours, and delicious meals at their on-site restaurant, The Bar at Willett.

The Best Bardstown Bed and Breakfast for Romantic Lodging

One of the highlights of any trip to Bardstown will be visiting Maker’s Mark Distillery the local distilleries. It’s a fantastic way to learn more about the process of this iconic beverage and meet people who are passionate about their craft. At the Bourbon Manor Bed and Breakfast, you’ll also see that we take our craft of hospitality very seriously, but all with a smile and a warm demeanor. We embrace Southern charm and love to welcome each guest as if they were more like a distant family member.

Our property consists of several historic buildings. The main Manor House comprises seven guest rooms, a dining room where you can enjoy breakfast every morning, a spa room, and a gym on the lower level. The Federal House Guest Cottage is where we have our other three lodging options. These spacious bedrooms, gathering room, kitchen area, and deck overlooking the private back lawn offer a comfortable and enjoyable experience for small groups or friends traveling together.

We offer our guests of our Bardstown Bed and Breakfast a long list of add-on packages, but the most popular option for bourbon enthusiasts is the “Bourbon Tour & Tasting Package,” which is a comprehensive itinerary for a self-guided tour. This add-on includes fun details like two bourbon shots on us, keepsake rocks glasses, chocolates, and much more! We can’t wait to host you for the best bourbon tours in Bardstown, KY; book your room today!

Enjoy a Cocktail at the Bar at Willett & More

There are so many cozy places for a cocktail in Bardstown, KY, and one place not to miss is the Bar at Willett, located at the famed Willett Distillery. It’s the perfect romantic stop for vintage whiskeys, classic and innovative cocktails, tasty small plates for sharing, and post-distillery tour nibbles. Depending on the weather, you can enjoy outdoor seating on the patio at The Bar at Willett with pretty views or be close to the action with a bar seat where you can watch the bartenders work their magic.

The Bar at Willett is also known for its fantastic and creative food options that rotate seasonally and sometimes daily, so every visit may look slightly different. It’s always fun to take a tour of the Willett Distillery beforehand, on which you’ll learn the intriguing history of this family-owned Bardstown distillery, founded in 1936. As with many stories behind these famed distilleries, they began with a dream, and Willett found so much success throughout the years, celebrating the 25,000th barrel as of 2017.

One of the most popular things to do in Bardstown, KY, is visit the local bourbon distilleries for tastings, tours, and merchandise. There is so much to explore that the best way to take it all in is on a multi-night trip, and our bourbon-themed Bardstown bed and breakfast is the ideal place to make your home base. Not only are we within minutes of some of the best distilleries on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail, but our stunning accommodations are elegant, romantic, and unique. Each morning, we’ll treat you to a lovely and hearty breakfast—the best fuel for heading out on bourbon tastings. Start planning and book your lodging for your next getaway today!

Bar at Willett & More Bourbon Distilleries in Bardstown, KY

Bardstown, Kentucky, is often called the “Bourbon Capital of the World,” as many bourbon distillers started here! It’s a prime destination for bourbon enthusiasts seeking tastings, tours, limited releases, and rare vintages. While not all distilleries in Bardstown offer dining experiences, when you head to the Willett Distillery, a reservation at The Bar at Willett should be on your itinerary.

Here are five bourbon distilleries near our Bardstown bed and breakfast with dining options not to miss:

The Bar at Willett at the Willett Distillery: There’s no better way to wrap up a tour at this historic Bardstown distillery than with a cocktail and meal at The Bar at Willett. The excellent bar staff creates classic and modern bourbon cocktails with beautiful touches. You’ll see the diligent kitchen staff preparing flavorful dishes from the open kitchen.
Kitchen & Bar at the Bardstown Bourbon Company: This modern and innovative Bardstown distillery is an excellent place for tours, tastings, and cocktail classes—after an adventure learning about bourbon, head to the on-site Kitchen and Bar for decadent fried chicken, Southern favorites, and boozy milkshakes.
Star Hill Provisions at Maker’s Mark Distillery: After an exciting tour of this iconic bourbon distillery where you can dip your own red wax bottle of Maker’s, head to the on-site restaurant for sandwiches, share plates, and Kentucky-inspired entrees supporting local farms.
The Kitchen Table at Jim Beam Distilling Co: This famed stalwart Kentucky distillery is a bourbon lover’s paradise! After an immersive tour profiling this distillery’s more than 200 years, head to The Kitchen Table for Southern hospitality, Beam family recipes, and an extensive list of vintage bourbons and cocktails.
My Kentucky Dinner Train Bourbon Tour: The Bourbon Excursion on this classic dinner train ride is such a lovely addition to any getaway to Bardstown. The two-and-a-half-hour ride takes you through the beautiful scenery of the Bluegrass State while you enjoy a gourmet, four-course dinner prepared fresh onboard and a bourbon tasting paired with your meal, guided by a master distiller.

This is just the beginning of the incredible dining options at the local Bardstown restaurants. For personalized recommendations or reservations (which are highly recommended for The Bar at Willett), just let us know during your stay at the Bourbon Manor Bed and Breakfast.

Book Our Bardstown Bed and Breakfast Today!

After a wonderful tour of the local Bardstown bourbon distilleries or a nightcap at the Bar at Willett, you’ll be set and ready to retreat to our bed and breakfast to relax and refresh. Our beautiful property is less than ten minutes from a handful of these historic establishments. We even offer a guided and chauffeured tour for tastings—these sell out frequently and early, so it’s best to add these enhancements at the time of your lodging reservation.

Our Bardstown Bed and Breakfast sets the perfect tone for a romantic getaway, friend’s trip, or solo retreat. Our ten spacious, antique-appointed, and spirit-themed B&B guest rooms at our award-winning, historic bed and breakfast are an ideal, centrally-located lodging option for exploring the Kentucky Bourbon Trail on tours and excursions, as well as for those visiting for romance or business in the Bardstown, Kentucky area. We’ll treat you to a wholesome and hearty Southern breakfast each morning of your stay!

As a proud member of the Kentucky Bed and Breakfast Association and Select Registry (a prestigious collection of small inns and B&Bs across the country), you can rest knowing that visiting the Bourbon Manor will be exquisite. With the beautiful and timeless furnishings, luxurious amenities, and five-star service from our Innkeepers and staff, you’ll be on cloud nine on your next trip to Bardstown. Start planning your next getaway filled with tastings at the bourbon distilleries, cocktails at The Bar at Willett, and so much more. Book your lodging today!

The 10 Best Bardstown Distilleries on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail For 2023

The 10 Best Bardstown Distilleries on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail For 2023 Read More »

If you’ve never had the joy of touring and tasting bourbon at the local Bardstown distilleries, this is the time! Spring is the perfect season before the busier travel times set in, and you’ll love the mild temperature days with beautiful blooms and lush green bringing the area to life. If it’s your first time visiting the nearby Bardstown distilleries, we guarantee you’ll be in awe of the size of these establishments. There’s really no way to describe the scope of these rick houses—giant warehouses holding millions of barrels of aging bourbons—you need to see them in person!

Bardstown is known as the birthplace of American bourbon as we know it. On these tours and tastings, it’s as much a look back into history as it is a delight for your palate. Kentucky is home to more than 70 bourbon distilleries, and an impressive list of those fine establishments are in the Bardstown area. The Kentucky Bourbon Trail is an excellent resource for bourbon enthusiasts and one of the best ways to plan your itinerary. Additionally, Bardstown has a great selection of outstanding restaurants, museums, and local artisan shops.

You’ll also find many lodging properties in our area, but none compares to our location, level of hospitality, and guest accommodations of our luxury Bed and Breakfast in Kentucky. We’re located in the heart of our charming small town and within ten minutes of some of the most popular Bardstown distilleries. Each of our beautifully appointed guest rooms is named for a favorite bourbon cocktail, which you can enjoy in our lobby bar during your stay! Check out our upcoming availability and book your room today!

Hit These Bardstown Distilleries on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail

The best vacations have a diverse itinerary, from dining out at new restaurants, exploring historical areas, and booking interesting tours. And the tours at these local Bardstown distilleries are informative, engaging, and delicious.

Here’s a list of the best Bardstown distilleries and more along the Kentucky Bourbon Trail:

Heaven Hill Distillery: As Whisky Magazine’s 2023 winner of “Distiller of the Year,” this award-winning distillery, with brands like Evan Williams, Elijah Craig, and Larceny, has been educating guests on whisky 101 since 1935. The Bourbon Heritage Center is a great place to start, with beautiful tasting rooms, informative tours, whisky-related exhibits, and bourbon-themed souvenirs from the gift shop.
Bardstown Bourbon Company: This is one of the Bardstown distilleries that puts you right behind the scenes. These tours are immersive and informative. Be sure to enjoy the bourbon blends in the on-site Kitchen & Bar in cocktail form, along with a full menu of appetizers, mains, and desserts.
Lux Row: With big names like Rebel Yell and Ezra Brooks, this 18,000-square-foot distillery produces a diverse lineup of bourbons. They have three tours to choose from, but go for the in-depth top-shelf tasting: the Lux Row Premium Experience.
Willett Distillery: This is one of the Bardstown distilleries you must visit, and it’s about ten minutes away from our Bed and Breakfast in Kentucky. While Thompson Willett began distilling in 1936, the family’s involvement in bourbon dates back to the late 1600s. Make a reservation at the sleek Bar at Willett for a spruced-up bourbon craft cocktail and appetizers.
Preservation Distillery: The 40-acre farm surrounding this distillery is in true Kentucky bluegrass country with panoramic views of the full-working farm. They make their bourbon in small batches here, using a pot-distilling method, which produces big and rich whiskeys.
Old Steelhouse Distillery: This distillery sits on 45 rolling acres just ten miles outside of Bardstown. What was once an abandoned warehouse is now a remarkable space for tasting bourbon and enjoying a tour.

These Kentucky distilleries are a bit further out of Bardstown but well worth the visit:

Maker’s Mark Distillery: The iconic red wax-topped bourbon bottle is recognizable worldwide, and this distillery is a big one to add to your list. It’s a bit further out in the country but only about a half hour from our Bed and Breakfast in Kentucky. The stunning grounds and rich history are well worth the trip and don’t miss the opportunity to dip your own bottle in hot wax.
Jim Beam American Stillhouse: This business is family-operated to its roots, as it’s been passed down in the Beam family for seven generations spanning 200 years. Last year, the Jim Beam campus revealed a massive makeover, creating an even more exciting place to have the bourbon experience.
Four Roses Bourbon: Just about ten miles out of Bardstown in Cox Creek is the Four Roses Bottling Facility, where they offer guided tastings and informative tours.

Stay at the Best Bed and Breakfast in Kentucky

Whether you plan to visit one of these Bardstown distilleries or all ten, you’ll quickly see that the bourbon community is celebrated here. So why not embrace that mood and stay in the world’s first bourbon-themed Bed and Breakfast in Kentucky? That’s precisely what you’ll find at the Bourbon Manor, where each of our ten guest rooms in the main house is named after a different bourbon cocktail. Beyond our creative play on the area’s top attraction, you’ll find a welcoming ambiance and exceptional hospitality far exceeding what you’d find at any chain hotel.

During your stay with us, we serve a lovely breakfast in our elegant dining area each morning. We prepare creative dishes with local and seasonal ingredients whenever possible. If you’re heading out for a day of bourbon tastings at the local Bardstown distilleries on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail, you’ll want a hearty meal to start you off on the right foot. Upon your return, the coffee is always on, and beverages and snacks are available throughout the day. Your guest room will be a welcome reprieve!

While tasting along the Kentucky Bourbon Trail might be your main activity while visiting Bardstown, don’t forget to schedule some downtime at our on-site spa for a massage. Ease your stress away, relax, and fully embrace your time away! Our goal is that you leave feeling as renewed as possible and ready to come to visit again. We’ve thought of everything so you don’t have to; that’s one of the many perks of staying at a small, boutique property like ours! Book your room at our Bed and Breakfast in Kentucky today!

Cozy Winter Tastings at Nearby Bardstown Distilleries

One of the best ways to spend a cozy wintery day during the holidays is with a bourbon tasting for two at the local Bardstown distilleries. The area is festive and decorated for the season, there are plenty of cheerful events planned, and all that bourbon tasting warms you up from the inside—even if it’s …

Cozy Winter Tastings at Nearby Bardstown Distilleries Read More »

Bardstown Distilleries, a picture of a glass of bourbon with a Christmas tree behind it

Our charming small town is known as the “Bourbon Capital of the World,” and it shows. Within 16 miles of our historic downtown area, there are more than ten Bardstown distilleries—all offering tastings and tours to the public. We’re also home to the Kentucky Bourbon Trail, giving visitors and locals alike bourbon itineraries and maps for the best bourbon-tasting experiences.

Before you start planning your tasting itinerary at the local Bardstown distilleries, you’ll want to secure your lodging. The Bourbon Manor Bed and Breakfast is the perfect place for a cozy winter retreat. Not only will you absolutely fall in love with our intimate and bourbon-themed guest suites, but our level of service and hospitality is unparalleled. Every inch of our Inn exudes opulence and luxury—once you’ve checked in, you’ll see why our guests return year after year.

Check out our upcoming availability and book your suite at our Bardstown Bed and Breakfast this winter!

Bardstown Distilleries, tasting glass on a bourbon barrel

Cozy Holiday Tastings a These Bardstown Distilleries

The best winter getaways will include a little bit of every activity that makes Bardstown such a unique small town. From award-winning restaurants, intriguing historical areas, and must-visit tasting tours at the Bardstown Distilleries—you’ll never have a dull moment in the Bluegrass State.

Here are the top five Bardstown distilleries to check out for a cozy tour and tasting near our elegant B&B:

Barton 1792 Distillery: A fantastic place to start, Barton Distillery is only a five-minute drive from the front porch of our Inn. This local Bardstown distillery was established in 1879, making it one of the oldest still in operation today. Better yet, the tastings and tours are complimentary!
Heaven Hill Distillery: This award-winning distillery is the master behind brands like Evan Williams, Elijah Craig, and Larceny—so you know you’ll taste some delicious bourbon here. You’ll also learn a lot about the process, as the Bourbon Heritage Center offers informative tours, and make sure to grab a few bourbon-themed souvenirs from the gift shop.
Bardstown Bourbon Company: If you want to get a behind-the-scenes look at how Bardstown distilleries work, this is the place to do it. From immersive cocktail classes to in-depth tours, this modern space is tailored to education—and tasting, of course. You’ll find their spectacular bourbon blends on the cocktail menu at the on-site Kitchen & Bar, along with a full menu of appetizers, mains, and desserts.
Lux Row: With big names like Rebel Yell and Ezra Brooks, this 18,000-square-foot distillery pumps out a ton of bourbon annually. Choose between three tour options, but a favorite is the top-shelf tasting for the most luxurious of Lux Row products.
Willett Distillery: Just about 10 minutes from our Kentucky Bed and Breakfast, this is one of the Bardstown distilleries you won’t want to miss. Founded in 1936 by Thompson Willett, you’ll learn all about the company’s history, which dates back to the late 1600s. After a tasting and tour, stop into The Bar at Willet for a creative bourbon cocktail and lovely sharable plates with local ingredients.

Bardstown Distilleries, happy couple having a cup a coffee in the morning

Wintertime Lodging for Romantic Holiday Getaways

After a chilly wintery day out on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail, you’ll be ready for warmth and relaxation. Our Bardstown Bed and Breakfast offers the whole experience. Our historic property is home to ten elegant guest suites—seven in the Manor and three private rooms in the Federal House. All of our spaces are designed with comfort in mind and beautiful places to fully unwind pre or post-holiday season—especially with a bourbon cocktail in hand!

Each morning you’ll be treated to a bountiful breakfast spread in our elegant dining area by the cozy fire. Fresh coffee, other beverages, and snacks are also available throughout the day. After you’re fueled up, head out to explore the nearby Bardstown distilleries, grab your last-minute holiday gifts, and have the time of your life. For those who would like to have a guided chauffeur tour, look into our special add-on packages where we take the guesswork out of touring Bardstown and beyond. Book your room today!

Head to Lux Row Distillers on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail

One of the must-see stops on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail is Lux Row Distillers—a state-of-the-art distillery with six distinct brands under one roof—including Rebel Bourbon, Ezra Brooks, Blood Oath, and much more. The award-winning distillery offers behind-the-scenes tours, a gift shop, and a cocktail bar serving mixed drinks and straight pours from the local house …

Head to Lux Row Distillers on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail Read More »

Lux Row Distillers

Ninety-five percent of the world’s bourbon is produced in Kentucky, so it’s only fitting that there’s a trail dedicated to trying all the best options. The Kentucky Bourbon Trail is a road-trip style experience for visitors (and locals) of the Bluegrass State to check out the signature distilleries. And just like Lux Row Distillers, you’ll have the opportunity to taste the bourbons and tour these excellent establishments.

Before you start planning your route on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail, you’ll want to secure your lodging, and there’s no better place to experience bourbon country than our Bardstown Bed and Breakfast. Our elegant and historic Inn is home to ten spirit-themed suites, beautiful garden grounds, and shared spaces for gourmet breakfast in the morning or an evening cocktail.

Check out our upcoming availability and book your stay at the Bourbon Manor B&B today!

Lux Row Distillers

Stop at Lux Row Distillers on the KY Bourbon Trail

As a guest at our Bardstown Bed and Breakfast, you’ll only be about ten minutes from the tour and tasting at Lux Row Distillers. In fact, Lux Row Distillers is just one of the many bourbon distilleries within a quick drive from our Bardstown Inn.

Here’s what to expect on a tour and tasting at Lux Row Distillers:

Lux Row Distillers holds the number one spot on TripAdvisor of the best things to do in Bardstown. Of the nearly 400 five-star reviews, the standouts are the friendly staff, knowledgeable guides, beautiful facility, and fantastic bourbon tastings.
Aside from the Lux Row Distillers brand, five other bourbon brands call this space home, including Rebel Bourbon, Ezra Brooks, Daviess County, David Nicholson, and Blood Oath.
It’s a beautiful scenic drive up to Lux Row Distillers; a long line of trees borders the road as you reach the modern 18,000-square-foot building. They have ten barrel warehouses and 43-foot custom copper still (all of which you’ll see firsthand on a tour).
John Rempe is the master distiller at this location—he has more than 20 years of experience and oversees the production of all the lines produced at Lux Row.
There are a few options when booking a tour here. From the Lux Row Libations Cocktail course to the Top Shelf Experience, you’ll get a behind-the-scenes look at how the distillery runs, the process of bourbon distilling, and get to taste some fantastic products.

Lux Row Distillers

Book One of our Bourbon Excursion Packages:

One of the best ways to truly enjoy a tour on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail is to book a package that includes transportation. At our Bardstown Bed and Breakfast, we offer a huge selection of special packages to add to your lodging, including tour tickets, guided routes, and hand-picked stops at the local bourbon distilleries. If you’d like Lux Row Distillers to be one of the stops, just ask! These tours are flexible and can be customized to your group’s needs. A guided tour of the nearby distilleries in the “Bourbon Capital of the World” will be one you won’t soon forget.

Lux Row Distillers

Best Lodging on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail

Over our many years as Innkeepers, our Bardstown Bed and Breakfast has been awarded many top honors, including a selection from Bourbon Review Magazine as one of the “Top 50 Places to Stay in Bourbon Country” and most recently listed as one of the “Ten Best Places to Stay for the Bourbon Trail” by Liquor Laboratory. Our dedication to hospitality, culinary greatness, and overall comfort for our guests have always taken top priority. All of our ten guest rooms and suites offer private baths, antique furnishings, fine art, Egyptian cotton sheets, Gilchrist & Soames toiletries, free wi-fi, and much more!

Join us in Bardstown and book your next getaway to Kentucky today!

Sip some Beautiful Kentucky Bourbon at Willett Distillery

One of our favorite places to visit in Bardstown is the Willett Distillery, established in 1936; this family-owned distillery embraces the importance of traditional methods that put Kentucky bourbon on the map. You’ll want to book a Willett Distillery tour and then finish your visit with cocktails and small plates at the Bar at Willett—a …

Sip some Beautiful Kentucky Bourbon at Willett Distillery Read More »

Willett Distillery

We can’t think of a more exciting addition to your vacation than a bourbon tasting and tour in the “Bourbon Capital of the World.” The Kentucky Bourbon Trail offers a whole day itinerary exploring the Bardstown Kentucky distilleries. A key element of planning your time heading to Willett Distillery and more is your lodging and transportation. When you stay at our Bardstown Bed and Breakfast, we offer packages that cover both!

Our Bardstown Bed and Breakfast is a fantastic location for exploring the shopping and restaurants of the Bardstown area and, especially, the local bourbon distilleries. We’re always happy to help make reservations and offer our expertise for enjoying your time in Bardstown and the surrounding areas. Our guest rooms are elegant and comfortable; your first visit will most likely not be your last!

Start by booking your room now, and let the Bardstown adventure begin!

Willett Distillery

Head to Willett Distillery & More Bourbon Tastings

The Kentucky Bourbon Trail is an excellent resource for those who want to include more than one tasting at the bourbon distillers here. If you only have time for one, Willett Distillery is a lovely way to get a crash course on the history of bourbon in the area and taste some prime examples of whiskey.

Willett Distillery: Only ten minutes away from our Bed and Breakfast, this Bardstown, Kentucky distillery is a must-visit. While Willett Distillery was started in 1936 by Thompson Willett, the history dates back to the late 1600s, so there’s a lot to learn on a tour here. Also, The Bar at Willett is a handsome space for a fancy bourbon craft cocktail. Be sure to grab a Willett family estate bottled bourbon to bring home!

More Nearby Bardstown Bourbon Distilleries to Visit:

Preservation Distillery: This distillery is true Kentucky blue-grass country with panoramic views of the full-working 40-acre farm. They make their bourbon in small batches here, using a pot-distilling method, which produces big and rich whiskeys.
Barton 1792 Distillery: Our Inn is only about five minutes drive from this well-known bourbon maker. And thankfully, the tours and tastings are complimentary! Established in 1879, this is one of the oldest Bardstown Kentucky distilleries still operating today.
Bardstown Bourbon Company: You’ll get an up-close look behind the scenes at this Bardstown bourbon distillery. They take you through where and how they make their whiskies and ryes. Even better, you get to enjoy those bourbon blends in the on-site Kitchen & Bar in cocktail form, along with a full menu of appetizers, mains, and desserts.
Lux Row: With well-known names like Rebel Yell and Ezra Brooks, this giant distillery is pumping out a lot of bourbons. Currently, they’re offering three tours, but for the most in-depth look behind the scenes with a top-shelf tasting, pick the Lux Row Premium Experience.
Heaven Hill Distillery: Since 1935, this award-winning distillery with brands like Evan Williams, Elijah Craig, and Larceny, has been a hub of bourbon education. The Bourbon Heritage Center is a great place to start in one of the many tasting rooms, informative tours, and bourbon-themed souvenirs from the gift shop.

Willett Distillery

Eclectic Lodging at our Bardstown Bed and Breakfast

Walking into our Historic Manor House in Bardstown is like taking a step back into time—just with an extra splash of color and all the modern amenities one craves on a special getaway. From elegant and spacious guest suites and complimentary breakfast to spa services and gym access, you’ll have it all for your next unforgettable vacation to Kentucky.

Join us at the Bourbon Manor B&B and book your next stay today!

Learn All About Distilling at the Bardstown Bourbon Company

Bardstown Bourbon Company might not be one of the oldest spirit producers in Kentucky, but what they lack in years, they make up for with innovation and a fresh approach to bourbon distilling. The 40,000 square foot distillery for Bardstown Bourbon Company, set on 100-acres of working farmland, channels the tasting experiences with Napa Valley-style …

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Bardstown Bourbon Company

The Bardstown Bourbon Company building is a destination experience, including a state-of-the-art distillery, culinary stand-out restaurant and bar, vintage whiskey library, and in-depth educational opportunities. The open, airy space is geared to include and involve visitors in the distilling process, and big glass walls offer views of the stills and makers in action.

One of the absolute best places to stay in Bardstown is the Bourbon Manor Bed and Breakfast, especially if you have an affinity for the spirit that puts Bardstown KY, on the map. You’ll be a quick 10-minute drive from our Inn to the Bardstown Bourbon Company (even better with our chauffeured bourbon tour options). Our historic Bardstown Bed and Breakfast is the perfect backdrop for your vacation in Kentucky, with ten elegant guest suites, cozy common rooms, and gourmet meals each morning.

Check out our availability in the new year and book your next stay today!

Bardstown Bourbon Company

Classes and Tastings at Bardstown Bourbon Company

More often than not, a trip to Bardstown KY includes a bourbon tasting or two, and Bardstown Bourbon Company is a great spot to learn more about this historic drink, taste through some interesting vintages, and enjoy an elegant meal.

Here are five of the offerings you’ll find on your adventure at Bardstown Bourbon Company:

Bardstown Bourbon Company Flight Tasting: This is an excellent starter tasting for those just beginning to appreciate the nuances of flavor in bourbons. You’ll taste three distinct pours with an introduction into the Bardstown Bourbon Company’s approach to blending.
From Distillate to Barrel Tour: This tour takes you through all the distilling and barrelling steps for a deeper look at the Bardstown Bourbon Company’s intensive process. Throughout this tour, you’ll taste whiskey and thieve bourbon straight from the barrel.
Shaken and Stirred Cocktail Class: Visitors work with experienced spirits specialists to create two classic bourbon-based cocktails in this curated cocktail class. And then get to drink them, of course!
A Taste of Bourbon History: This exclusive flight includes three rare vintage whiskeys. You’ll sit at a grand table surrounded by the library of more than 400 bottles of bourbon from the past—the oldest dating back to 1892.
Kitchen and Bar: The dining experience at Bardstown Bourbon Company is one of the best in town. Kentucky classics are reimagined with local farm produce and products. Fried chicken or catfish, filet mignon, and hearty salads are just a few of the entrees to pair with the elegant bourbon cocktails freshly shaken at the bar.

Bardstown Bourbon Company

Other Great Spots in Bardstown for a Bourbon Cocktail

There are many great bars for a cocktail just minutes from our Bardstown Bed and Breakfast. Head out on foot to explore the bar scene of our charming small town:

Blind Pig Bourbon Speakeasy: In a true testament to the speakeasy vibes of the prohibition era, this craft cocktail bar is tucked in downtown Bardstown. Order up an old-fashioned, find a cozy couch, and listen to live music with friendly company.
Talbott Tavern: Known as one of the oldest bourbon bars in the US, this cozy space in dark woods and old stone is a must-stop for a cocktail. Stay for dinner for classic Kentucky dishes, like a smoked turkey and baked ham Hot Brown or fried green tomatoes, and chess pie for dessert.
3rd Street Taphouse: This local watering hole is constantly popping on the weekends with live DJs, bar games, 30 beers on draft, and a full bar menu.
The Rickhouse: Located in the basement of the historic Spalding Hall building, enjoy a bourbon flight or craft cocktail surrounded by ancient exposed brick walls, bourbon barrels, and beautiful arches. Don’t miss the fantastic signature steak dinner options as well.

Bardstown Bourbon Company

The Best Bardstown Bed and Breakfast for a Getaway

Everything about Bardstown exudes class, a rich history, and charm. So it’s only fitting that your lodging choice encompasses that same feeling. Our Bardstown Bed and Breakfast fit the bill to a tee—the grand mansion has been meticulously restored to showcase the stunning architecture and antique details of the 1820s. Each of our ten guest suites is richly appointed with modern amenities, cozy seating areas, fireplaces, luxurious beds, and private baths.

Join us in the New Year in Bardstown and book your next vacation today!