For sports enthusiasts, the stadium is a sacred ground. Music aficionados travel far to catch their favorite acts at festivals. Wine connoisseurs seek out the vineyards. But for bourbon aficionados, the path is their pilgrimage.
Every year, over 2.7 million enthusiasts embark on Kentucky’s bourbon trail, as estimated by the Kentucky Bourbon Trail. Whether you’re a beginner in the world of brown spirits or a seasoned drinker since your legal drinking age, you might be keen to join this impressive crowd. (And even if you’re not a drinker, Louisville, Lexington, Bardstown, and beyond have plenty to offer!)
Before you set off for your first or next journey along the trail, here are some expert tips to ensure your experience is as rich as the bourbon itself.
Ever pondered what exactly a bourbon butler does? Norma Smith, one of the select few to hold this title, is a proud bourbon butler at Kentucky’s pioneering “Bourbon Hotel,” The Trail Hotel in Bardstown. (Incidentally, The Trail is the first full-service hotel in Bardstown to join the Kentucky Bourbon Trail.)
“A bourbon butler is essentially a concierge for everything bourbon-related! I assist guests in crafting an itinerary, suggest the best tours and experiences at each distillery, help secure hard-to-get bookings, and arrange private or VIP encounters,” Smith explains.
Put simply, a bourbon butler can be your very own guide as you traverse the 800-mile bourbon trail.
With 15 years of experience in spirits and over a decade of guiding guests through the bourbon trail like a local, Smith has uncovered several common mistakes on the trail that are easily preventable. We sat down with her to gather insider knowledge to make sure your time on the bourbon trail is nothing short of perfect, even if she’s not your personal butler this time around.
Bourbon tourism is thriving, and all signs indicate it’s on the rise year after year, Smith tells Southern Living.
“Many distilleries are fully booked months ahead, particularly the more famous ones,” she notes. “If you wait to book your tours or try to walk in, you might be turned away. I always advise booking your tours about three months in advance, as most distilleries release their schedules in 90-day intervals,” Smith advises.
While it’s wise to book ahead, Smith firmly believes that “bourbon country is best enjoyed at a leisurely pace—just like a fine pour of whiskey. Overloading your schedule can lead to burnout,” she cautions.
She suggests aiming for one tour or distillery experience per day, along with one to two tastings at most. Keep in mind that many distilleries offer unique activities such as cocktail classes (at Bardstown Bourbon Company), bourbon infusions (at Bulleit Frontier Whiskey), and even epic concerts featuring artists like Eli Young Band and Clint Black (at Log Still Distilling), so “you don’t have to do a full tour or tasting at every stop,” Smith adds.
Once you’ve settled on your destination and timing, it’s prudent to consider how you’ll get there, as “the bourbon trail is larger than most people imagine! Most distilleries are scattered throughout Central Kentucky,” Smith explains.
While private transportation can be costly, “it’s more economical than a DUI—and safer, too,” Smith asserts.
For those interested in exploring the bourbon trail, it’s important to be prepared for the elements. Kentucky is known for its unpredictable weather, which can change dramatically in a short period. Since many distillery tours take place outdoors and include a visit to the rickhouses (which are typically not temperature-controlled), it’s wise to check the forecast and plan accordingly, Smith emphasizes.
“If the forecast calls for rain, come prepared! We often experience heavy to severe rain showers at certain times of the year, so a good umbrella or raincoat is essential,” Smith recommends. “And if you’re traveling in the summer, bring a cooler for your vehicle to keep any bottles you purchase safe from the heat,” she adds.
When exploring the bourbon trail, it’s best to leave your high heels or polished leather shoes at home. You’ll likely be walking through historic rickhouses and metal grates, grass, dirt, and concrete. Opt for something practical and comfortable over fashion-forward attire, Smith advises.
When it comes to clothing, casual is the way to go. In the summer, wear light, loose, and breathable clothing, like golf course attire. In the winter, ensure you have a warm coat, hat, and gloves (not mittens) for ease of use and to hold your whiskey glass comfortably, Smith says.
Wearing layers is a smart choice, regardless of the season, to adapt to the weather and any strong air conditioning during the warmer months. For most restaurants, jeans and a nice top are more than adequate.
Distilleries are often located in remote areas, offering stunning scenery and ample space for barrel aging. However, many are situated in the countryside with limited dining options nearby. While some stops offer food on-site, it’s usually more snack-like than a full meal.
“Don’t overlook lunch,” Smith advises, especially since “Kentucky boasts numerous excellent local dining options. Food and hospitality are as integral to this state as bourbon.” Given the walking and sampling involved on the bourbon trail, “you’ll likely get hungry. Make reservations to explore our local restaurants,” Smith suggests.
And while we’re on the topic of sustenance, don’t forget to stay hydrated throughout the day. Smith’s motto for her clients: “Drink more water, y’all—and bourbon!”
Curiosity is a sign of interest, and Smith assures that you won’t be frowned upon for asking questions during tours, tastings, or at local restaurants and shops.
“Bourbon isn’t pretentious or snobbish, and most locals are delighted to discuss bourbon with you and introduce you to new whiskeys we love,” Smith tells us.
As you enjoy the local restaurants and bars, ask the bartender or server to recommend something they’re excited about. Just don’t ask for their favorite bourbon, Smith warns, “because very few of us can pick just one!”
