Bardstown, known as the Bourbon Capital of the World, is home to six distinct distilleries that produce a wide range of exceptional bourbons. Each distillery offers a unique experience and perspective on the art of bourbon making. As an expert sommelier and brewer, I have had the pleasure of exploring these distilleries and tasting their exquisite bourbons. Allow me to take you on a journey through Bardstown's bourbon scene.
1. Bardstown Bourbon Company: This modern and innovative distillery produces its own brands, as well as collaborates with other distilleries and brands to create custom bourbon recipes. Their focus on craftsmanship and experimentation results in a diverse range of bourbons that cater to various palates. I have personally enjoyed their Fusion Series, which combines different bourbon mash bills to create harmonious and complex flavors.
2. Heaven Hill Distillery: With a rich history dating back to 1935, Heaven Hill is one of the oldest family-owned distilleries in Kentucky. They produce a wide array of bourbons, including the iconic Evan Williams and Elijah Craig brands. Heaven Hill's bourbons are known for their smoothness, depth of flavor, and excellent value for money. During my visit, I had the pleasure of tasting their Elijah Craig Small Batch, a bourbon with notes of caramel, vanilla, and oak that left a lasting impression.
3. Willett Distillery: A boutique distillery nestled in the heart of Bardstown, Willett is known for its small-batch, handcrafted bourbons. The family-owned distillery takes pride in preserving traditional bourbon-making techniques, resulting in exceptional spirits. I had the opportunity to try their Willett Pot Still Reserve, a four-year-old bourbon with a deliciously spicy and fruity profile. The attention to detail and craftsmanship showcased in their products truly impressed me.
4. Lux Row Distillers: This relatively new addition to Bardstown's bourbon scene has quickly gained recognition for its high-quality bourbons. Lux Row produces brands such as Rebel Yell and Ezra Brooks, offering a range of expressions to suit different preferences. During my visit, I was captivated by the smoothness and rich flavors of their Rebel Yell 10-Year-Old Single Barrel, a bourbon that showcased the depth and complexity that comes with extended aging.
5. Barton 1792 Distillery: Situated on the historic Tom Moore Farm, Barton 1792 Distillery produces a variety of bourbons under the 1792 brand. Their bourbons are known for their full-bodied character, with hints of caramel, spice, and oak. I had the pleasure of tasting their 1792 Small Batch, a bourbon that struck a perfect balance between sweetness and spice, leaving a lingering warmth on the palate.
6. Preservation Distillery: This small-scale craft distillery takes a unique approach to bourbon making, utilizing heirloom grains and traditional distilling methods. Their emphasis on quality over quantity results in limited releases of exceptional bourbons. During my visit, I had the privilege of tasting their Preservation Series, a small-batch bourbon with a distinct flavor profile that showcased the craftsmanship and dedication of the distillery.
Bardstown is home to an impressive array of distilleries, each offering their own perspective on the art of bourbon making. From the innovative creations of Bardstown Bourbon Company to the traditional craftsmanship of Willett Distillery, there is a bourbon to suit every palate. My personal experiences exploring these distilleries and tasting their bourbons have been nothing short of remarkable, and I highly recommend embarking on your own bourbon journey in the Bourbon Capital of the World.
