Pembroke: MB Roland Distillery Tour & Tasting

If you’re curious about how Kentucky’s famous craft whiskey is made, the MB Roland Distillery Tour & Tasting in Pembroke offers a surprisingly intimate peek into the process. This one-hour experience is geared toward those who want to go beyond the typical tourist stop and learn about the craftsmanship behind every sip. We like that it combines a working distillery with a friendly, informative guide and a generous tasting of up to eight different spirits.

One standout feature is how transparent the operation is—visitors get to see inside a real distillery on a historic Amish Dairy Farm, not just a glossy visitor center. The other highlight is the barrel aging warehouse, where you can get a sense of the patience and care that go into each bottle. On the downside, the tour is fairly short—just an hour—and may not satisfy those craving a more in-depth experience or the chance to see the entire production chain in detail. Still, it’s perfect for curious travelers, whiskey enthusiasts, or anyone wanting an authentic, hands-on taste of Kentucky’s craft spirit scene.

Who This Tour Is Best For

This tour works well for visitors who appreciate craftsmanship and authenticity over large-scale commercial production. It’s great for those interested in learning about the whiskey-making process from sourcing grains to aging, and for those who want to sample a variety of spirits without spending a fortune. It’s especially suited for travelers seeking a short, informative experience with a friendly guide, wheelchair-accessible, and flexible with cancellation.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Authentic Access: See inside a real working distillery on a historic farm.
• Educational Focus: Learn step-by-step how whiskey is made, from grain to bottle.
• Tasting Variety: Sample up to 8 spirits, including premium options.
• Value for Money: At just $15, it’s a budget-friendly introduction to Kentucky craft spirits.
• Guided Experience: An experienced guide ensures you understand each stage.
• Accessible & Flexible: Suitable for most visitors, with cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Exploring the MB Roland Distillery Tour & Tasting

Setting the Scene: From Amish Farm to Whiskey Distillery

What makes this experience stand out immediately is its setting. The distillery operates on a former Amish Dairy Farm, giving it a genuine, rustic charm that’s both a nod to tradition and a testament to local craftsmanship. As you arrive at the gift shop, you’re welcomed by the promise of learning how small-batch, craft spirits are made—something that many travelers, especially those with a taste for authentic local products, will appreciate.

The tour begins with a guided walk through the distillery, lasting about 30–40 minutes. It’s led by an experienced guide who clearly loves sharing their knowledge without overwhelming. During this walk, you’ll see inside a working distillery, observing the grains being sourced and cooked, the fermentation tanks, and the double-pot stills that are at the heart of production. The guide is ready to answer questions, which makes the experience engaging rather than just observational.

From Grain to Glass: The Production Process

One of the highlights we loved was the detailed explanation of each step. Seeing the grain sourcing process, for example, is a reminder of how local ingredients influence the final flavor. The guide explains how the grains are cooked and fermented, emphasizing the craft involved in creating a consistent mash. Watching the double-pot distillation process, you get a clear picture of why Kentucky spirits are known for their smoothness and complexity.

The walk down to the aging warehouse offers a glimpse into patience. These barrels sit for over four years, maturing in a dimly lit, cool space—a key factor in developing the flavors that whiskey lovers cherish. The experience of standing among hundreds of barrels and imagining their eventual transformation into spirits adds a poetic touch to the visit.

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The Tasting Bar: A Flavorful Finish

The tour concludes at the tasting bar, where you’re invited to sample up to eight spirits—a generous offering that includes both standard and premium selections. The tasting is guided by an expert, who describes each spirit’s characteristics and the craftsmanship behind them. Reviews note that “the spirits were delicious and varied,” with some visitors particularly enjoying the premium options. It’s a perfect opportunity to find your favorite, whether you prefer smooth bourbons or more robust craft spirits.

Practical Details and Value

For just $15 per person, this experience is a solid value. It’s a well-paced, family-friendly activity that generally lasts about an hour, making it easy to fit into a day of exploring. The tour is wheelchair accessible, and the flexible cancellation policy (up to 24 hours in advance) offers peace of mind.

While the tour doesn’t include cocktails or shop purchases, the tasting alone can be quite satisfying. And if you’re interested in bringing home a bottle, the gift shop has a selection of spirits to consider.

What Other Travelers Say

Many reviews highlight the friendly guides and the informative nature of the tour. One reviewer remarked, “The tour was a perfect mix of education and tasting, and I loved seeing a real distillery in action.” Others appreciated the small-group setting, which fosters a more personal experience. Some noted that the tour, while concise, overall provided a genuine look at Kentucky craft spirits without feeling rushed.

Final Thoughts: Is it Worth It?

For travelers seeking a compact, authentic introduction to Kentucky whiskey-making, the MB Roland Distillery Tour & Tasting is a winner. Its affordable price, combined with insider access and a friendly guide, makes it a worthwhile stop. You’ll come away with a better understanding of the craft and some excellent spirits to enjoy.

This experience is especially ideal if you prefer a manageable, informative visit over larger, commercial tours. It suits those who value local tradition, craftsmanship, and authenticity—the kind of details that make Kentucky whiskey special. It’s not a deep dive into every aspect of production, but it’s a solid, honest look that leaves you with a new appreciation for the work that goes into each bottle.

If you’re a whiskey enthusiast or simply curious about southern spirits, this tour makes a compelling case for adding a personal, flavorful layer to your Kentucky travel itinerary. Just remember to bring your ID, and plan a little extra time to savor the spirits you’ll taste.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts about 1 hour, including both the walkthrough and tasting.

What is included in the price?
For $15, you get a 30–40 minute guided tour and a 15–20 minute guided tasting of up to eight spirits.

Are there premium spirits available?
Yes, you can sample up to two premium spirits during the tasting.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchairs?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for most visitors.

Do I need to reserve ahead of time?
Yes, it’s recommended to reserve in advance. You can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund.

What should I bring?
Bring a valid ID or passport for age verification during the tasting.

Are additional purchases possible?
While the tour doesn’t include shop purchases, there is a gift shop where you can buy spirits or souvenirs.

Can I take photos during the tour?
The information provided doesn’t specify restrictions, but generally, photos are welcome in most parts of the distillery.

Is there a dress code?
No specific dress code, but comfortable casual attire is best, especially if you want to explore the distillery freely.

In all, the MB Roland Distillery Tour & Tasting offers a great balance of education, authenticity, and flavor—well worth considering if you’re exploring Kentucky’s craft spirits scene.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby