Kentucky Distilleries

Before you get overwhelmed with how many distilleries are in “The Bluegrass State,” keep in mind that this state is the home of bourbon! In fact, Kentucky distilleries are home to a whopping ninety-five percent of the world’s bourbon. It makes sense, then, that there are going to be many distilleries across this gorgeous state.

Now, we’re going to recommend that you fly into Louisville, even though it isn’t technically the biggest airport in the state. By flying into this city, you’re going to automatically have a whopping twenty-four Kentucky distilleries and group tour options at your fingertips. This alone is going to take you an incredible amount of time to get through. 

From Louisville, the cities with the most Kentucky distilleries are Bardstown with eleven distilleries (48 minutes from Louisville), Frankfort with six distilleries (one hour from Louisville), and Lexington with ten distilleries (one and a half hours from Louisville). 

As you can see, these four cities alone could take you months to get through! We recommend you pick and choose which of the Kentucky distilleries stand out to you the most – visit those for your very first trip into Kentucky. You can always come back!

If you’re looking for some of the best-rated Kentucky distilleries, you’ll have to check out Wild Turkey in Lawrenceburg (one hour from Louisville) and Bulleit Distilling Co. in Shelbyville (40 minutes from Louisville). Other big names in this state include Jim Beam, Maker’s Mark, Four Roses Distillery, and the distillery in Frankfort that produces “Blanton’s,” Buffalo Trace Distillery.

So, if you’re researching where to go for a vacation where you can taste hundreds of bourbons, Kentucky is certainly the right state for you! But don’t stop there – you’ll be doing yourself a disservice if you don’t stop to enjoy the rolling hills and beautiful scenery while you’re visiting Kentucky distilleries across the state!

Kentucky Liquor Laws & Regulations

Kentucky Distillers Association

Rich History & Iconic Spirits: Kentucky Distillery Tour Guide

See Why Kentucky Is the King of Craft Distilleries