Bourbon’s Beating Heart: Exploring Bardstown’s Legendary Distilleries
If bourbon is your passion – or even just a casual curiosity – you’ll find yourself at home in Bardstown. Known as the Bourbon Capital of the World, this picturesque town offers more than a sip of history—it serves a full pour of heritage, innovation, and craftsmanship. Here, bourbon isn’t just a drink – it's a way of life steeped in rich history and vibrant stories that make every shared glass a truly memorable moment.
A Legacy of Family and Flavor at Willet Distillery
Perched atop a scenic hill in Bardstown, Willet Distillery is a jewel in Bardstown’s bourbon crown. Founded in 1936, this family-owned distillery has remained true to its commitment to small-batch bourbon that’s always crafted with care. Stepping foot into Willet feels like being welcomed into a family tradition, where warmth, craftsmanship, and a deep respect for bourbon shines through.
Known for their iconic pot still-shaped bottles and unique mash bills, Willet’s bourbons tell a story. Whether you’re savoring the smooth Willet Pot Still Reserve or are a collector hunting for the elusive Family Estate Bottled series, you’ll find yourself appreciating their dedication to detail. The distillery’s intimate tours and tastings are a must, offering an up-close look at the magic behind the craft.
Learn more and plan your visit: https://www.kentuckybourbonwhiskey.com/
Honoring Tradition with 100% Pot Distillation at Preservation Distillery
For those seeking a true taste of the past, Preservation Distillery is a must-visit. This boutique operation is one of the few distilleries in the United States exclusively using 100% pot still distillation, a method steeped in history but increasingly rare in modern bourbon production. Walking through Preservation Distillery reflects a reverence for heritage, from their use of traditional techniques to their dedication to small-scale, high-quality output.
Their limited-release bourbons and ryes are packed with deep, complex flavors that harken back to the golden age of whiskey-making. Beyond the liquid, the distillery’s serene countryside setting and focus on sustainability make it a haven for bourbon lovers and eco-conscious travelers alike.
Discover their story: https://www.preservationdistillery.com/
A Destination full of Bourbon Heritage
Bardstown is more than a collection of distilleries; it’s a living, breathing tribute to bourbon culture. Beyond Willet and Preservation, visitors can explore a wealth of renowned names such as Heaven Hill, Maker’s Mark, and Bardstown Bourbon Company. Each distillery offers its own unique spin on Kentucky’s signature spirit, ensuring every visitor finds something to love.
The Bourbon Heritage Center, housed at Heaven Hill, provides a deep dive into the history and science of bourbon, while Bardstown Bourbon Company’s modern campus combines cutting-edge production with world-class dining. If you’re a true enthusiast, you can’t miss Bardstown’s annual Kentucky Bourbon Festival, where the town comes alive with tastings, events and a deep, shared love for bourbon culture.
For those planning a pilgrimage, the Bardstown Distillery Listings serve as the perfect starting point to fill your glass.
A Toast to Bardstown
In Bardstown, bourbon isn’t just made – it's celebrated. It’s a town where tradition meets innovation. With its legendary distilleries, trailblazing personalities, and unwavering commitment to craft, this unique Kentucky town offers a journey through the past, present, and future of America’s native spirit.
Come Find Bourbon supports responsible bourbon enjoyment. Must be 21 to participate and always enjoy your bourbon like a true Kentuckian, responsibly. Come Find Bourbon is a marketing partnership between meetNKY, Visit Frankfort, and Visit Bardstown.
