For sports enthusiasts, the team stadium is a sacred ground. Music aficionados travel far and wide to catch their favorite acts at concerts. Wine aficionados seek out vineyards. But for bourbon enthusiasts, the journey is all about hitting the trail.
Each year, Kentucky’s fabled bourbon trail lures over 2.7 million aficionados, as estimated by the Kentucky Bourbon Trail. Whether you’re a novice in the world of brown spirits or a seasoned enthusiast, you might be yearning to become part of this awe-inspiring crowd. (And even if imbibing isn’t your thing, Louisville, Lexington, Bardstown, and beyond have plenty to captivate you!)
As you prepare for your maiden or next venture on the trail, here are some seasoned tips to make the most of your experience.
Ever pondered what a bourbon butler does? Norma Smith, one of the select few with this enviable title, is among those who excel in this role. She proudly holds the title as one of only two bourbon butlers at Kentucky’s pioneering “Bourbon Hotel,” The Trail Hotel in Bardstown. (Incidentally, The Trail Hotel is the first such establishment in Bardstown to join the Kentucky Bourbon Trail.)
“A bourbon butler is essentially a guide for all things related to bourbon country! I can assist guests in crafting their itinerary, suggest the best tours and experiences at each distillery, help secure sold-out or challenging-to-book events, and arrange private or VIP experiences,” Smith explains.
Essentially, a bourbon butler can serve as your personal spirit guide as you traverse the 800-mile bourbon trail.
With 15 years of experience in the spirits industry and over a decade of guiding guests through the bourbon trail, Smith has identified several common pitfalls on the trail that are easily sidestepped. We spoke with her to acquire this insider knowledge, ensuring that your time on the bourbon trail is as fulfilling as possible, even if she’s not your personal butler for this adventure.
Bourbon tourism is thriving, and all indicators suggest it’s on an upward trajectory, Smith told Southern Living.
“Many distilleries fill up months before, particularly the more renowned ones,” she notes. “Hanging around until the last minute or showing up unannounced can result in disappointment. I always advise booking your tours around three months in advance, as most distilleries release their schedules in 90-day blocks,” Smith adds.
While it’s prudent to plan ahead, Smith advocates for a more leisurely pace. “Bourbon country is best savored slowly—like a perfectly poured glass of whiskey. Overloading your schedule can lead to burnout,” she advises.
She suggests aiming for one tour or distillery experience per day, along with one to two tastings at most. Remember that many distilleries offer unique activities like cocktail classes (Bardstown Bourbon Company), bourbon infusions (Bulleit Frontier Whiskey), and even epic concerts featuring acts like Eli Young Band and Clint Black (Log Still Distilling), so “you don’t have to do a traditional tour or tasting at every stop,” Smith remarks.
Now that you know where you’re going and when, it’s wise to consider how you’ll get there, as “the bourbon trail is broader than most realize! Most distilleries are scattered around Central Kentucky,” Smith explains.
While private transportation can be costly, Smith emphasizes, “it’s more economical than a DUI—and far safer too,” she adds.
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“In Kentucky, we have a saying: ‘If you don’t like the weather, wait 5 minutes.’ Our state experiences all four seasons, sometimes within a single week, which contributes to the exceptional aging of our whiskey,” Smith notes.
However, not all weather is suitable for outdoor activities. Given that many distillery tours take place outdoors and include visits to rickhouses (which are usually not temperature-controlled), it’s wise to monitor the forecast and plan accordingly, Smith cautions.
“If rain is in the forecast, come equipped! We often have heavy to severe downpours at certain times of the year, so a reliable umbrella or raincoat is essential,” Smith suggests. “And if you’re traveling during the summer, pack a cooler for your vehicle to keep any bottles you purchase safe from the heat,” she adds.
Comfort over style is key when exploring the bourbon trail. You’ll be walking through historic rickhouses and metal grates, grass, dirt, and concrete, so opt for practical and comfortable attire over runway fashion, Smith advises.
When it comes to clothing, casual is the name of the game. During summer, go for light, loose, and breathable garments. Think golf course attire: shorts, skorts, and tops. In winter, “be sure to pack a warm coat, a hat, and gloves (not mittens) so you can easily grasp railings, take photos, and, most importantly, hold your whiskey glass,” she says.
Layering is smart regardless of the season to adapt to changing temperatures and occasional intense air conditioning during warmer months. For most restaurants, jeans and a nice top are appropriate.
While the seclusion of distilleries offers stunning scenery and ample space for barrels to age, they are often situated in rural areas with limited food options nearby. Some stops offer food, but it’s usually more snack-oriented than a full meal.
“Don’t overlook lunch,” Smith advises, especially since “Kentucky boasts a wealth of local dining options. Food and hospitality are as integral to this state as bourbon.” Plus, the bourbon trail often involves considerable walking and sampling, so “you’ll get hungry. Make reservations to explore our local restaurants,” Smith suggests.
While we’re talking about sustenance, remember to stay hydrated throughout the day. Smith’s mantra for her clients: “Drink more water, y’all—and bourbon!”
Curiosity is a sign of genuine interest, and Smith assures that you’ll be welcomed if you ask questions during tours, tastings, or at local eateries and shops.
“Bourbon isn’t pretentious, and most locals are thrilled to discuss bourbon with you and introduce you to the whiskeys we adore,” Smith tells us.
When visiting local restaurants and bars, don’t hesitate to ask the bartender or server for their favorite drink. Just beware of asking for their personal favorite bourbon, Smith cautions, “because few of us can settle on just one!”
