Kentucky Peerless Distilling Co
Experience the revival of a historic Louisville distillery, crafting exceptional barrel-proof bourbon and rye.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more intimate experience.
Kentucky Peerless Distilling Co
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more intimate experience.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience the revival of a historic Louisville distillery, crafting exceptional barrel-proof bourbon and rye.
"The family legacy and dedication to quality make Peerless a truly handcrafted experience."
Book Heritage Experience
Consider the Heritage Experience for a deeper dive and potential owner interaction.
Wear Comfy Shoes
You'll be on your feet exploring the distillery; comfort is key!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Toasted Bourbon & Rye
Experience unique, dessert-like flavors with their celebrated Toasted Bourbon and Toasted Rye releases.
Family Legacy Tour
Discover the compelling 1880s family history and modern revival of this iconic Louisville distillery.
Barrel Proof & Non-Chill Filtered
Savor the rich, bold character of whiskeys bottled straight from the barrel, unfiltered.
Urban Distillery Experience
Witness the entire whiskey-making process, from milling to bottling, all under one roof.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Tour in Advance
Dress for the Occasion
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book Heritage Experience
Consider the Heritage Experience for a deeper dive and potential owner interaction.
Wear Comfy Shoes
You'll be on your feet exploring the distillery; comfort is key!
Taste the Toasted
Don't miss the Toasted Bourbon and Rye – they're crowd favorites! +1
Ask About SIBs
Inquire about Single Barrel (SIB) selections for a unique tasting.
Tips
from all over the internet
Book Heritage Experience
Consider the Heritage Experience for a deeper dive and potential owner interaction.
Wear Comfy Shoes
You'll be on your feet exploring the distillery; comfort is key!
Taste the Toasted
Don't miss the Toasted Bourbon and Rye – they're crowd favorites! +1
Ask About SIBs
Inquire about Single Barrel (SIB) selections for a unique tasting.
Stay Hydrated
The working distillery can be warm; bring water or purchase on-site.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Kentucky Peerless Distilling Co. for its exceptional whiskey quality, engaging tours, and rich family history. The barrel-proof, non-chill filtered spirits, particularly the Toasted Bourbon and Rye, are highlights. While the price point is higher, the quality and unique experience are widely considered worth the investment. Some find the working areas warm, but this is a minor point in an otherwise highly recommended visit.
"Amazing experience! David gave a fantastic tour — not only walking us through how Peerless makes its bourbon, but also what makes them different and the history behind it. The highlight was meeting Corky Taylor, the fourth generation owner, which made the visit even more memorable. Highly recommend Peerless to anyone visiting Louisville!"
Laura-Taylor Richards
"🥃 Kentucky Peerless Distilling Co. – Small Batch, Big Character
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
If you're looking for craft bourbon at its purest, then Kentucky Peerless in downtown Louisville is an absolute must-visit.
This distillery may not have centuries of continuous operation, but what it does have is history reborn with heart.
The family legacy dates back to the 1880s, and today the great-grandson of the original founder continues that vision in a way that blends tradition and innovation beautifully.
Everything happens under one roof – milling, mashing, fermenting, distilling, aging, bottling – all done in small batches, with extreme attention to detail.
The tour is incredibly well presented, guiding you through not just the process, but also the story behind the name. You can feel the pride and purpose in every corner of the building.
We had our tasting right inside the distillery bar, which is cozy and classy. The gift shop is also worth a look – well-curated, with premium bottles and unique merchandise.
What sets Peerless apart?
Their bourbon and rye whiskeys are all non-chill filtered and bottled at barrel proof – meaning you taste them exactly as they come out of the barrel, with no watering down, no filtering.
The result? Rich, bold, aromatic whiskeys that are full of depth and character. Yes, the price is higher – but so is the quality.
Whether you're a seasoned bourbon enthusiast or just beginning your journey, Peerless delivers an experience and a product that feel truly handcrafted – because they are."
Torsten Horn
"Very engaging and educational tour! I was pleased with the available selection as well as the pours that we sampled. Our tour guide Kelsie (i think that's what it was) was very knowledgeable and engaging. Would highly recommend. #Cheers"
Raynaldo Ramos
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Kentucky Peerless Distilling Co. is located in downtown Louisville, KY, making it easily accessible. Many visitors arrive by car and find parking nearby, or utilize rideshare services. It's also a walkable destination if you're staying in the downtown area. +1
While there isn't dedicated on-site parking, there are several public parking garages and street parking options available in the vicinity of the distillery in downtown Louisville.
Absolutely! Louisville has a good public transportation system, and rideshare services are readily available. Many visitors on the Bourbon Trail make it a key stop, so planning your route is easy.
Many visitors opt for organized Bourbon Trail tours or hire private transportation for convenience and safety. Rideshares are also an option for shorter distances between distilleries.
Yes, Louisville has public bus routes that serve the downtown area, making it possible to reach the distillery via public transport. Check local transit schedules for the most up-to-date information.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
It is highly recommended to book your tours in advance, especially for the popular Heritage Experience, as they can sell out. This ensures you secure your preferred date and time.
Kentucky Peerless offers various experiences, including standard tours that cover the distilling process and history, and the more in-depth Heritage Experience, which may offer additional insights or tastings.
Tour pricing can vary depending on the experience chosen. It's best to check the official Kentucky Peerless Distilling Co. website for the most current pricing and to book your tickets.
Tastings typically include samples of their various bourbons and rye whiskeys, often with guided notes and explanations from knowledgeable staff. Some experiences may include bonus pours.
Yes, you can purchase bottles of their acclaimed bourbon and rye whiskeys at the distillery's gift shop. Special releases and single barrels may also be available. +1
🎫 🥃 Onsite Experience
Many visitors rave about the educational and engaging tours, with guides like David and Kelsie receiving specific praise for their knowledge and presentation. The Heritage Experience is often highlighted for its depth.
Expect a comprehensive walkthrough of the entire distilling process, from grain to bottle, set within a historic yet modern urban distillery. You'll learn about the family legacy and their unique approach to whiskey making. +1
Absolutely! Visitors consistently praise the tasting lineup, noting the bold flavors and quality of the bourbon and rye. The guided tastings are described as top-notch and interactive.
Peerless stands out for its commitment to crafting whiskey under one roof, using non-chill filtered and barrel-proof methods. The strong family legacy and dedication to quality also set them apart.
Yes, Peerless frequently releases special editions like their highly acclaimed Toasted Bourbon and Toasted Rye. Keep an eye on their announcements for upcoming releases and events. +2
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Kentucky Peerless Distilling Co. primarily focuses on whiskey production and tastings. While they may offer light snacks or have partnerships with local eateries, they do not typically have a full-service restaurant on-site.
Yes, being located in downtown Louisville, there are numerous excellent dining options within walking distance or a short drive from the distillery, ranging from casual to upscale.
Generally, outside food is not permitted inside the distillery premises, especially during tours or tastings. It's best to enjoy your meals at nearby restaurants before or after your visit.
While whiskey is their specialty, they may offer other beverages like water or non-alcoholic options. Some cocktail recipes featuring Peerless whiskey are shared, suggesting local bars might use their products.
While not offered on-site, the rich and bold flavors of Peerless whiskey, especially the Toasted varieties, pair wonderfully with desserts like peanut brittle, toffee, or even banana bread.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, photography is generally allowed and encouraged at Kentucky Peerless Distilling Co. It's a visually appealing location with interesting architecture and production processes. +1
Capture shots of the impressive copper stills, the aging barrels in the warehouse, the historic building exterior, and of course, your tasting pours. The urban setting also offers great backdrops. +1
Yes, you can typically take photos during the tour, but be mindful of your surroundings and any instructions from your tour guide to ensure safety and avoid disrupting the process. +1
While generally permitted, it's always a good idea to ask your tour guide if there are any specific areas or times where photography might be restricted for operational or safety reasons. +1
Common photos include close-ups of whiskey pours, the distillery equipment, group shots with guides, and exterior views of the historic building. Many highlight the unique Toasted Bourbon and Rye. +2
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
It's important to note that the focus is on alcohol production, and tastings are for adults only. Ensure children are supervised and comfortable in an environment where alcohol is being produced and discussed. Consider a shorter tour or focusing on the historical aspects if traveling with younger children. Nearby attractions in Louisville might offer more child-specific activities.
💰 Budget Travelers
To save money, consider visiting during off-peak times or weekdays when tours might be less crowded. You can also enjoy the historical narrative and the visual aspects of the distillery without necessarily purchasing bottles, though the tasting itself is a key part of the experience.
🥃 Whiskey Enthusiasts
+2Engage with the knowledgeable guides, inquire about Single Barrel (SIB) picks, and appreciate the family's dedication to reviving a historic brand with modern excellence.
+2 The opportunity to potentially meet family members like Corky Taylor adds a unique layer to the experience. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Peerless Legacy: History Reborn
The story of Peerless is one of resilience and dedication. It survived Prohibition by operating under medicinal purposes restrictions, a testament to its enduring spirit.
Today, the distillery operates entirely under one roof in Louisville, allowing for meticulous control over every step of the whiskey-making process. This includes milling, mashing, fermenting, distilling, aging, and bottling, all executed with a focus on small-batch production and exceptional quality. Visitors often feel a profound connection to this history, describing the experience as walking into a place that feels both familiar and new.
The Art of Peerless Whiskey: Barrel Proof & Beyond
The result of this meticulous process is a whiskey with unparalleled richness, boldness, and aromatic complexity.
Among their most celebrated releases are the Toasted Bourbon and Toasted Rye. These expressions have garnered significant acclaim for their unique flavor profiles, often described with notes of peanut brittle, toffee, cherry, banana bread, and warm spice.
+2 Whether you're a seasoned bourbon aficionado or new to the world of whiskey, experiencing the uncompromised quality of Peerless is a must-do. The Peerless Tour Experience: What to Expect
Guests can expect to see the entire operation, from the milling of grains to the final bottling, all within their urban distillery.
For those seeking a more in-depth experience, the Heritage Experience is often recommended, with some visitors hoping for interactions with family members like Corky Taylor, the fourth-generation owner.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit