Description: I already knew before my trip to Lexington that Bourbon Whiskey is one of Kentucky’s most famous exports. When it came to choosing a whiskey distillery to visit though, I found myself with almost a dozen to choose from. In the end I decided to choose the Woodford Reserve Distillery due to its distinguished history, small size production, price, and proximity to my home in Lexington, and I must say that I was more than satisfied with my trip here.
Woodford Reserve Distillery, previously known as Labrot & Graham Distillery after changing its name in 2003, is the state's oldest distillery and has been named a National Historic Landmark. Set in incredibly scenic, bluegrass countryside, among horse farms and sweeping fields, this distillery boasts century-old stone buildings and cypress fermenting tanks. Small-batch production is the standard, as is triple distillation, carried out in three traditional copper pot stills imported all the way from Scotland.
The tour of the distillery starts off with a very informative film about the history of bourbon-making, which if you are like me and have no idea about Bourbon other than it’s an alcoholic drink, then it helps a great deal. After the film you are taken around the distillery, through each of the distilling processes. The guide can answer even the most awkward and difficult questions, and helped me understand the differences between Kentucky Bourbon, Tennessee Sour mash such as Jack Daniels and the Scotch Whiskeys from Scotland. The tour, including the film, lasts around 2 hours, which I thought was a perfect length. At the end you are given a shot of their most famous whiskey, Woodford Reserve and have the chance to buy any souvenirs from their gift shop, including a number of whiskeys, which this distillery produces.
Opening hours are between 9am and 5pm Tuesday to Saturday, with tours of the distillery starting at 10am, 11am, 1pm, 2pm and 3pm. There are also Sunday tours between April and October starting at 1pm, 2pm and 3pm.
To get to the distillery from Lexington, take US 60 from Lexington towards Frankfort. Shortly after passing the intersection of US 60 and State Road 1685, turn left onto Route 3360. Follow this road until it ends. Turn right onto McCraken Pike. The Distillery is on the left. Directions from other major cities can be found on their official website (www.woodfordreserve.com). It is a beautiful drive, through rolling green hills and horse country. The price of the tour is $5 and with a free taste of Woodford Reserve it represents excellent value.
Finally an important note to add is that although the distillery changed its name in 2003 from the Labrot & Graham Distillery. This name is still widely used and is exactly the same place as its new name, the Woodford Reserve Distillery.
More information can be found at www.woodfordreserve.com, or by phoning +1 859 879 1812.
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