For sports enthusiasts, the team’s stadium is a pilgrimage destination. Music aficionados travel far to witness their beloved artists at festivals. Wine enthusiasts head straight to the vineyards. But for those with a penchant for bourbon, the journey is a trailblazing adventure.
Each year, Kentucky’s bourbon trail draws over 2.7 million visitors, as per estimates from the Kentucky Bourbon Trail. Whether you’re a novice to the amber nectar or a seasoned aficionado since your 21st birthday, you might be eager to become part of this awe-inspiring crowd. (And even if you’re not a drinker, there’s plenty to cherish in Louisville, Lexington, Bardstown, and beyond!)
Before you embark on your first—or next—journey along the trail, take a moment to read these expert tips.
Ever pondered, “What exactly is a bourbon butler?” Norma Smith, a proud holder of this esteemed title, is one of the select few. She reigns as one of only two bourbon butlers at Kentucky’s pioneering “Bourbon Hotel,” The Trail Hotel in Bardstown, Kentucky. (Incidentally, The Trail is the first full-service hotel in Bardstown to officially join the Kentucky Bourbon Trail.)
“A bourbon butler is essentially a concierge for everything related to bourbon country! I can assist guests in crafting an itinerary, suggest the finest tours and experiences at each distillery, help secure hard-to-book events, and arrange private or VIP experiences,” Smith explains.
In essence, a bourbon butler can serve as your very own spirit guide as you traverse the 800-mile bourbon trail.
With over 15 years of spirits experience and more than a decade guiding guests through the bourbon trail, Smith has identified several common mistakes on the trail that are easily avoidable. We sat down with her to gather this insider knowledge to ensure your time on the bourbon trail is nothing short of perfect…even if she’s not your personal butler on this trip.
Bourbon tourism is thriving, and all indications suggest it’s on the rise, Smith shares with Southern Living.
“Many distilleries fill up months before, particularly the more renowned ones,” she notes. “If you wait to book your tours or try to walk in, there’s a good chance you’ll be turned away. I always recommend booking your tours about 3 months in advance, as most distilleries release their schedules in 90-day increments,” Smith advises.
While it’s advisable to book ahead, it’s also tempting to visit as many distilleries and restaurants as possible while on the trail. However, Smith firmly believes that “bourbon country is best enjoyed at a leisurely pace—just like a fine pour of whiskey. If you overfill your schedule, you’ll risk burnout.”
She suggests aiming for one tour or distillery experience per day, with one to two tastings at most. Keep in mind that many distilleries offer unique activities like cocktail classes (Bardstown Bourbon Company), bourbon infusions (Bulleit Frontier Whiskey), and even epic concerts featuring artists like Eli Young Band and Clint Black (Log Still Distilling), so “you don’t have to do a full tour or tasting at every stop,” Smith adds.
With your destination and schedule in mind, it’s wise to consider how you’ll travel there, as “the bourbon trail is larger than most people realize! Most distilleries are scattered throughout Central Kentucky,” Smith points out.
While private transportation can be costly, Smith emphasizes, “it’s cheaper than a DUI—and safer too.”
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In Kentucky, we have a saying: ‘If you don’t like the weather, wait 5 minutes.’ The state experiences all four seasons, sometimes in a single week, which is why our whiskey ages so beautifully in the barrel,” Smith observes.
However, not all weather is conducive to outdoor activities. Since many distillery tours are conducted outdoors and include a visit to the rickhouses (which are often not temperature-controlled), it’s wise to keep a close eye on the forecast and plan accordingly, Smith advises.
“If rain is in the forecast, come prepared! We can have heavy to severe rain showers at certain times of the year, so you’ll definitely want a good umbrella or a raincoat,” Smith recommends. “Bonus weather tip: If you’re traveling in the summer, bring a cooler for your vehicle to keep any bottles you purchase safe from the heat in your car!”
When exploring the bourbon trail, leave your high heels and polished leather shoes at home. You’ll likely be walking through historic rickhouses and metal grates, grass, dirt, and concrete. Opt for practical and comfortable footwear instead of runway fashion, Smith suggests.
When it comes to clothing, casual is the way to go. In the summer, wear light, loose, and breathable attire, akin to golf course wear: shorts, skorts, and tops. In winter, ensure you have a warm coat, a hat, and gloves (not mittens) to easily grip railings, take photos, and, most importantly, hold your whiskey glass,” she advises.
Layering is key, regardless of the season, to adapt to the weather and occasional strong air conditioning in the warmer months. For most restaurants, jeans and a nice top are perfectly appropriate.
Distilleries’ remote locations offer stunning landscapes and ample space for barrel aging. However, many are situated in rural areas with limited food options nearby. While some stops offer food on-site, it’s typically more snack-like than a full meal.
“Don’t overlook lunch,” Smith cautions, especially since “Kentucky boasts numerous excellent local dining options. Food and hospitality are as integral to the state’s culture as bourbon.” Given the considerable walking and sampling involved on the bourbon trail, “you’ll get hungry. Make reservations to explore our local restaurants,” Smith suggests.
While discussing food, don’t forget to stay hydrated throughout the day. Smith’s motto for all her clients: “Drink more water, y’all—and bourbon!”
Curiosity is a sign of genuine interest, and Smith assures that you won’t be dismissed if you ask questions during tours, tastings, or at local eateries and shops.
“Bourbon isn’t snobbish, and most locals are thrilled to discuss bourbon with you and introduce you to the whiskeys we cherish,” Smith tells us.
As you enjoy the local eateries and bars, ask the bartender or server to recommend something they’re excited about. Just don’t ask them to pick their favorite bourbon, Smith cautions, “because very few of us can choose just one!”
