Heaven Hill Distillery Spotlight

Heaven Hill Distillery has a long history when it comes to American whiskey craftsmanship. For over 85 years, this distillery has pushed through hardships and is now at the forefront of producing some of America’s finest spirits. It has also earned accolades and awards for its dedication and quality. Let’s look at its history, process, and the amazing array of spirits it offers.

When Was the Distillery Opened?

In the midst of the Great Depression, 1935, a unique opportunity arose for the Shapira brothers in Bardstown, Kentucky. With an investment of $17,500, they established the original Heaven Hill Springs Distillery, marking the beginning of an illustrious whiskey-making legacy.

Why Choose Heaven Hill Distillery?

Heaven Hill isn’t just a distillery; it’s a testament to American spirit and perseverance. The distillery has navigated through challenging times, including the Great Depression and a devastating fire in 1996, emerging stronger each time. It’s this resilience and commitment to quality that make their spirits stand out.

Furthermore, Heaven Hill Distillery’s commitment to quality extends to every step of the distillation process, resulting in a portfolio of award-winning bourbons and other fine spirits that have earned them a well-deserved reputation in the world of whiskey. Whether you’re sipping their flagship bourbon or exploring one of their limited-edition releases, you’re sure to taste the craftsmanship and dedication that go into every bottle.

Spirits Produced by Heaven Hill Distillery

Now, let’s take a closer look at some of the spirits (brands, really) produced by Heaven Hill Distillery. This is not an exhaustive list, so check out their website or visit in person for more information.

Old Heaven Hill Bottled-in-Bond Bourbon: The original whiskey that started it all, aged for four years, embodying the patience and dedication of the Shapira family.

Elijah Craig: A premium brand created by Parker Beam, showcasing the distillery’s expertise in crafting aged bourbon.

Evan Williams: Known for its single barrel and long-aged releases, this brand reflects the distillery’s capacity to produce diverse and quality spirits.

Henry McKenna: Another remarkable brand offering unique flavors, thanks to the distillery’s expansive aging process.

Heaven Hill’s Distillation Process

Since Heaven Hill makes so many different spirits, the processes aren’t all the same. However, as a general, their overall distillation process takes the following form:

Their process begins with selecting the finest grains, pure limestone water, and proprietary yeast strains, all of which contribute to the unique flavors found in their bourbons and other spirits. 

The grains are mashed and fermented, creating a rich “distiller’s beer” that serves as the foundation for their whiskey. The distillation takes place in copper pot stills, where the liquid is carefully heated and condensed to separate the alcohol from impurities. This meticulous process is a key factor in achieving the smooth and complex profiles that define Heaven Hill’s spirits.

After distillation, the new make spirit is placed in new, charred oak barrels where it is aged. The barrels are carefully stored in rickhouses, allowing the whiskey to interact with the wood and absorb flavors over time. This patient maturation process is essential to developing the distinct taste and character of each spirit.

Where to Find Heaven Hill’s Spirits

Heaven Hill’s spirits are available across the United States and can be found in various liquor stores, bars, and restaurants. They’re also available for purchase online, catering to a wider audience of whiskey enthusiasts.

The Distillery Crew

Heaven Hill Distillery’s master distilling legacy is marked by the Beam family, starting with Joseph L. Beam, and continuing with his descendants. The current Master Distiller, Conor O’Driscoll, joined Heaven Hill in 2019, bringing extensive experience in fermentation and chemical engineering from his previous roles in the industry. 

Known for prioritizing whiskey quality, O’Driscoll oversees a large-scale operation, filling over 1,300 barrels daily. His tenure at Heaven Hill reflects a blend of tradition and innovation, managing a vast portfolio and embracing both production excellence and public engagement in his role​​​​​​​​​​.

Tours, Events, & Classes

At Heaven Hill Distillery, there’s more to explore than just exceptional bourbon. Their Tours, Events, & Classes offer a unique and immersive experience for visitors. Whether you’re a whiskey enthusiast or just curious about the art of distillation, there’s something for everyone. Guided tours take you behind the scenes to witness the craftsmanship and tradition that goes into their world-renowned spirits. 

You can also enjoy special events and tastings, where you can savor the distinct flavors of their bourbons and other fine spirits. For those looking to deepen their knowledge, Heaven Hill offers informative classes that delve into the history and techniques of whiskey-making.

For more information about visiting Heaven Hill Distillery, check out Heaven Hill Distillery’s website.

Operating Hours for Tours and Visits:

Heaven Hill Distillery offers visiting hours for its gift shop and tours from Monday to Thursday between 11:00 AM and 6:00 PM ET, Friday to Saturday from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM ET, and on Sunday from 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM ET​​. 

Additionally, the Five Brothers Bar at the distillery operates Monday to Thursday from 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM ET, Friday to Saturday from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM ET, and on Sunday from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM ET, though it is closed on Tuesdays​​. 

Distillery Location & Directions

Heaven Hill Distillery is situated in the heart of Kentucky’s bourbon country, making it a prime destination for whiskey enthusiasts. Nestled in the picturesque town of Bardstown, this historic distillery is easily accessible by car.

To get directions to Heaven Hill Distillery, search it on Google Maps or use the following address:

1311 Gilkey Run Road

Bardstown, Kentucky 40004

Visit Heaven Hill Distillery Today!

Heaven Hill Distillery might just be one of the biggest operations that has a family-owned feel. This makes for a really fun tour experience. We highly recommend visiting this distillery if you get the time when you’re in Kentucky.

So, what are you waiting for? Visit their website or contact Heaven Hill Distillery today to set up your next tour experience!