
Woodford Reserve Distillery
Step into bourbon history at Woodford Reserve, where historic charm meets the art of whiskey making. Explore beautiful grounds and enjoy an educationa...

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more intimate experience.

Woodford Reserve Distillery
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more intimate experience.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Step into bourbon history at Woodford Reserve, where historic charm meets the art of whiskey making. Explore beautiful grounds and enjoy an educational tasting.
"An unforgettable experience, from learning about the craftsmanship to sampling bourbon where it was born.
"
🎯 Book Tours Early
Tours sell out fast! Book your 'Innovation Inspired' tour online in advance to secure your spot. :ticket:
🚗 Scenic Drive Recommended
Enjoy the beautiful Kentucky countryside on your way. The property itself is a visual treat. :world_map:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Historic Limestone Buildings
Distillery Grounds
Step back in time amidst charming, historic limestone structures that whisper tales of bourbon's past.

The Mash & Barrel Process
Production Areas
Witness the fascinating transformation of grains into world-famous bourbon, a truly immersive experience.

Educational Tasting Experience
Tasting Room
Savor and learn about Woodford Reserve's distinct flavor profiles in a guided and insightful tasting session.

Custom Engraved Bottle
Gift Shop
Commemorate your visit with a personalized, custom-engraved Woodford Reserve bottle – a unique souvenir.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Tour in Advance
Embrace the Scenic Drive
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Tours Early
Tours sell out fast! Book your 'Innovation Inspired' tour online in advance to secure your spot.
:ticket:🚗 Scenic Drive Recommended
Enjoy the beautiful Kentucky countryside on your way. The property itself is a visual treat.
:world_map:🗣️ Engage with Guides
Guides like Darryl and Bethany are incredibly knowledgeable and fun! Ask questions and enjoy their stories.
:speech_balloon:🎁 Consider a Custom Bottle
A custom engraved Woodford Reserve bottle makes for a truly special and memorable souvenir.
:gift:Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Tours Early
Tours sell out fast! Book your 'Innovation Inspired' tour online in advance to secure your spot.
:ticket:🚗 Scenic Drive Recommended
Enjoy the beautiful Kentucky countryside on your way. The property itself is a visual treat.
:world_map:🗣️ Engage with Guides
Guides like Darryl and Bethany are incredibly knowledgeable and fun! Ask questions and enjoy their stories.
:speech_balloon:🎁 Consider a Custom Bottle
A custom engraved Woodford Reserve bottle makes for a truly special and memorable souvenir.
:gift:👟 Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a fair bit of walking around the distillery grounds. Wear comfortable shoes! :athletic_shoe:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Woodford Reserve for its beautiful historic property, knowledgeable and engaging tour guides, and educational tasting experiences. The immersive process of watching bourbon being made and the option for custom engraved bottles are frequently highlighted as memorable aspects. While the focus is on bourbon, the overall charm and scenic setting appeal to a wide range of visitors.
"The property alone is beautiful. Our guide, Darryl, was a delight. He is very knowledgeable and a lot of fun. Loved seeing the "mash" bubbling. The tasting was very educational and good.
Even our shuttle drivers were so friendly and helpful!!
Thanks!"
Lynn Perkins
"We recently visited Woodford Reserve Distillery to celebrate my son’s 21st birthday, and I can confidently say it exceeded all expectations. As a longtime fan of Woodford Reserve, I was excited to share this experience with him — and it was even better than I imagined.
The setting is absolutely gorgeous — from the historic limestone buildings to the scenic Kentucky countryside, every part of the property felt rich with history and charm. What really brought it all to life was our incredible tour guide, Bethany. She was knowledgeable, engaging, and full of great stories that made the tour both informative and fun.
From learning about the craftsmanship behind each bottle to sampling our favorite bourbon in the place it was born, this was a truly unforgettable experience. If you’re a bourbon lover or just looking for a special destination, Woodford Reserve is a must-visit."
Shawn Carlisle
"We had a great experience touring the facility! Our tour guide, Jamie, was very knowledgeable, informative and accommodating. I would highly recommend the Innovation Inspired: Tour and Tasting. I was a fan of their bourbon before but even more so now!"
Chris Rivera
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Woodford Reserve is located in Versailles, KY, about a 30-40 minute drive from Lexington. You can drive yourself, or consider ride-sharing services. Many visitors opt for a rental car to explore the wider Bourbon Trail.
Yes, Woodford Reserve is a prominent stop on the renowned Kentucky Bourbon Trail, offering a fantastic experience for whiskey lovers.
Many visitors rent a car for flexibility. For a more relaxed experience, consider booking a guided tour bus or hiring a private driver, especially if you plan on tasting at multiple locations.
Yes, ample parking is available at the distillery for visitors.
Yes, taxis and rideshares are generally available, but it's always a good idea to confirm availability in the Versailles area, especially for your return trip.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Tour prices vary depending on the experience. The 'Innovation Inspired: Tour and Tasting' is highly recommended and typically costs around $30-$40 per person. It's best to check their official website for the most current pricing and tour options.
Absolutely! Tours, especially popular ones like the 'Innovation Inspired' tour, often sell out weeks in advance. Booking online through their official website is highly recommended.
Woodford Reserve typically operates tours daily, but hours can vary seasonally. It's essential to check their official website for the most up-to-date tour schedules and availability.
Tours usually include a guided walk through the distillery's historic grounds and production areas, an educational tasting session, and insights into the bourbon-making process. Some tours offer unique experiences like barrel engraving.
Yes, you can purchase bottles of Woodford Reserve, including special releases, at their gift shop. Some tours even offer the option to customize your bottle with engraving.
🎫 🥃 Onsite Experience
This popular tour offers an in-depth look at Woodford Reserve's history, production, and unique flavor profiles, culminating in an educational tasting session. Many visitors find it highly informative and enjoyable.
Expect a guided walk through historic buildings, learning about the bourbon-making process from grain to bottle, and a tasting. Guides are known for being knowledgeable and engaging.
Yes, visitors can opt for unique experiences like custom bottle engraving, which makes for a fantastic souvenir.
While the focus is on bourbon, the beautiful property, historic buildings, and engaging tours can be enjoyed by anyone interested in history and craftsmanship. The tasting portion is optional.
Many visitors highlight the beautiful property, the knowledgeable and friendly guides, and the educational tasting experience as the best parts of their visit.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Woodford Reserve primarily focuses on distillery tours and tastings. While they may offer some light snacks or have a small cafe, it's not a full-service restaurant. It's recommended to plan your meals before or after your visit.
Outside food and beverages are generally not permitted within the distillery tour areas or tasting rooms. They encourage you to enjoy their curated tasting experience.
Versailles, KY, and nearby Lexington offer a variety of dining options, from casual cafes to upscale restaurants. Research local recommendations for the best culinary experiences.
While the standard tours include a tasting, specific food pairings are not typically part of the general tour. Special events or private tastings might offer this.
Typically, you need to be part of a scheduled tour to experience the tasting. It's best to check their official policy regarding walk-in tastings or bar service.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, photography is generally allowed throughout the distillery grounds and public areas. However, always be mindful of your surroundings and any specific signage regarding photo restrictions in certain production areas.
The historic limestone buildings, the scenic Kentucky landscape, the bubbling mash, and the barrel-aging warehouses are all incredibly photogenic. The gift shop with its bottle displays also makes for great shots.
Drones are typically not permitted at distilleries due to safety and operational reasons. It's best to check their official policy or inquire upon arrival.
Visitors often share photos of the picturesque property, the distillery's architecture, the bourbon-making process, and their tasting experiences. Custom engraved bottles are also popular subjects.
Yes, you can usually take photos during the tasting, but be respectful of other guests and the presenter. Focus on capturing the ambiance and the pours.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider booking the 'Innovation Inspired' tour for a comprehensive overview. The scenic drive to the distillery and the picturesque property offer opportunities for photos and enjoying the Kentucky countryside. It's advisable to check the distillery's specific policies regarding minors on tours before booking.
💰 Budget Travelers
To save on costs, consider visiting during weekdays when tours might be less crowded and potentially more affordable. Pack snacks and water, as on-site dining options are limited. If you're exploring the Bourbon Trail, carpooling or using a ride-sharing service with a group can help split transportation expenses.
💑 Couples
Consider booking a tour that includes a tasting to share a special moment. The option for a custom engraved bottle makes for a unique and personalized souvenir of your visit. Enjoy the picturesque grounds for a leisurely stroll and capture some beautiful photos together.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Woodford Reserve Distillery Experience
Key to the experience is witnessing the mash and barrel process. Seeing the 'mash' bubbling and understanding how the barrels are aged provides a tangible connection to the spirit. The educational tasting session is a highlight, allowing guests to savor Woodford Reserve's distinct flavor profiles and learn about what makes each expression unique. Many find this tasting to be a pivotal moment, deepening their appreciation for the brand.
For those seeking a truly special memento, the option for a custom engraved bottle is a popular choice, turning a great visit into an unforgettable keepsake. The overall atmosphere is one of charm, history, and a genuine passion for bourbon, making it a must-visit for enthusiasts and curious travelers alike.
Navigating the Bourbon Trail: Woodford Reserve's Place
When planning your Bourbon Trail itinerary, consider booking tours in advance, as Woodford Reserve is a popular choice and tours can fill up quickly. Many visitors recommend comfortable footwear as you'll be walking around the expansive grounds. The experience at Woodford Reserve is often described as immersive and educational, providing a solid understanding of bourbon production that complements visits to other distilleries on the trail.
While the focus is on bourbon, the scenic beauty of the property and the historical significance of the site offer broader appeal. It's a place where the craft of whiskey-making meets the charm of the Kentucky landscape, creating a memorable stop on any Bourbon Trail adventure.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit