Private Frankfort Bourbon Tour: (Groups of 2-11) Woodford & More

Introducing the Private Frankfort Bourbon Tour: Woodford & More

Imagine spending a full day exploring some of Kentucky’s most renowned bourbon distilleries without the hassle of shared buses or crowded groups. This private tour, offered by Unfiltered Kentucky Tours, promises an intimate, personalized experience across three carefully selected distilleries, all within a single day. The cost is $479 per person, which, considering the inclusion of private transport, tastings, and hotel pickup, offers quite good value—especially since it’s booked on average 50 days in advance, showing how popular and well-organized this experience is.

What we particularly love about this tour is its flexibility and personalized approach. You get to choose the 5-6 distilleries you’d like to visit, with the tour company working behind the scenes to confirm availability and craft an itinerary that suits your preferences. Plus, the fact that you’re traveling in a private vehicle with your own designated driver means no rushing or sharing space with strangers. The only real consideration? Lunch isn’t included, so you’ll want to budget $10-$30 for a meal, which can be a delightful part of the adventure if you pick the right spot.

This tour is ideal for bourbon enthusiasts who want a tailored, relaxed day focused on authentic distillery experiences. It also suits travelers who value comfort and exclusivity, perhaps celebrating a special occasion or simply wanting to indulge in Kentucky’s legendary bourbon scene without the crowds.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: Only your group participates, with the freedom to choose distilleries and customize the itinerary.
• All-Inclusive Value: Includes three distillery tours, tastings, bottled water, parking fees, and snacks.
• Expert Guidance: A knowledgeable driver ensures a smooth, informative day without the stress of driving.
• Flexible Schedule: The tour lasts around 8-10 hours, with stops at some of Kentucky’s most iconic and picturesque distilleries.
• Convenient Pickup: Hotel or Airbnb pickup in Louisville makes the experience seamless from the start.
• Limited Group Size: With only 2-11 people, expect a friendly, intimate atmosphere with plenty of opportunities for questions and personalized attention.

A Deep Dive into the Tour Experience

Starting Strong at Buffalo Trace

The day kicks off at Buffalo Trace Distillery, one of the larger and most historic operations in Kentucky. The tour here is comprehensive—lasting about an hour and a half, with admission included. You’ll get a close look at the sprawling campus, which showcases a blend of historic buildings and modern distillation science. According to reviews, guides like Chuck are praised for their communication skills and friendly attitude, making the experience more engaging.

Guests often mention the tasting experience as a highlight; Buffalo Trace is known for its high-quality products and the chance to sample some of their best offerings. The tour is a must for those who want to get a thorough understanding of bourbon production from the grains to the bottle. The large-scale operation also means you’ll see some impressive equipment and production processes that are fascinating even for the casual enthusiast.

The Charm of Woodford Reserve

Next, the group heads to Woodford Reserve, a brand synonymous with Kentucky bourbon elegance. This site offers a more intimate experience, with a history-rich setting and picturesque views. The tour lasts roughly 1.5 hours and covers the distillery’s smaller, scaled-down operation, which makes it easier to grasp the process while enjoying the scenic, historic surroundings.

Reviewers appreciate the blend of history and hospitality here; some mention the tasting as a “great deal of history” infused into the experience. Expect to learn about the brand’s roots, with some guests noting the “basic tasting” still packs a punch in flavor. The setting is perfect for those who love the idea of bourbon in a relaxed, historic environment, offering plenty of photo opportunities, especially with the traditional architecture and lush landscapes.

The Visual Appeal of Castle & Key

The third major stop is Castle & Key, a newer distillery with a stunning, postcard-worthy landscape. Its grounds invite exploration, and the tour emphasizes the brand’s unique history and production methods. Here, the tasting emphasizes gin, rye, and vodka, which is a nice change of pace from bourbon-centric stops. The property itself is praised for its beauty, with many visitors noting the “postcard quality views.”

Guests spend about 1 hour and 15 minutes here, exploring the grounds and learning about the brand’s revival and modern approach to spirits-making. As some reviewers pointed out, the focus on aesthetics doesn’t come at the expense of quality—this is a “great experience,” especially if you enjoy picturesque settings as part of your bourbon adventure.

Additional Stops and Customization

Beyond these three, the tour can include other distilleries like Wild Turkey (note: currently closed as of winter 2024), Whiskey Thief, Four Roses, Glenns Creek, and J. Mattingly 1845. The choice depends on your preferences, and the tour operator works to book these based on availability and your priorities.

Guests who opt for smaller, boutique distilleries like Whiskey Thief or J. Mattingly enjoy a more hands-on, intimate tasting experience. For example, Whiskey Thief offers barrel tasting directly from the casks, which many reviewers find particularly memorable—”a classic Kentucky experience.”

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Based on reviews, guests consistently praise the stunning views at several stops, especially Castle & Key. The fact that you’re traveling in a clean, comfortable, private vehicle with a friendly driver (like Chuck, who’s highly praised for his communication and professionalism) makes this tour truly stand out. The ability to customize your itinerary means you can focus on your favorite brands or explore new ones, making the experience feel personal and special.

Value for the Price

At $479 per person, it might seem steep at first glance, but considering the inclusions—private transport, three distillery tours, tastings, snacks, parking, and pickup—the value becomes clearer. You’re essentially paying for a curated, stress-free day that packs in multiple high-quality experiences without the logistics of driving or navigating schedules alone.

Practicalities and Tips

• Book well in advance, especially for Buffalo Trace, as tours sell out quickly.
• Lunch isn’t included, so plan ahead and budget $10-$30 for a meal. There are many options in Louisville, and some distilleries may suggest nearby eateries.
• The tour lasts 8-10 hours, so wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for a full day.
• Most travelers are over 21, and this is an adults-only experience focused on spirits.
• Weather dependency is worth noting; if poor weather cancels the trip, you’ll be offered a new date or a refund.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour suits bourbon lovers who value personalized, small-group experiences over large, impersonal bus tours. It’s perfect for those who want to explore Kentucky’s bourbon scene at their own pace, with insightful guides and stunning scenery along the way. If you enjoy tasting different spirits and learning about their origins without the rush, this tour hits the mark.

It also appeals to travelers celebrating special occasions, as the private setting offers intimacy and comfort. However, if you’re budget-conscious and looking for a more economical or shorter activity, this might be more suited for a dedicated bourbon enthusiast willing to invest in an immersive experience.

This private bourbon tour offers a well-rounded, enjoyable day that balances education, stunning views, and authentic spirit tastings, making it a memorable highlight of any Kentucky visit.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I choose which distilleries to visit?
Yes, you select 5-6 distilleries from a list, and the tour company will coordinate with you to book three of them for the day, based on availability and your preferences.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included, but you should plan to spend around $10-$30 for a meal during the day. The tour operator can recommend nearby eateries, but you’ll need to pay out of pocket.

How long is the tour?
Expect a full day, around 8 to 10 hours, including transport, tours, tastings, and breaks.

What is the group size?
This is a private experience for groups of 2-11 people, ensuring a personalized and intimate atmosphere.

Are there age restrictions?
Yes, this is an adults-only tour, 21 and over, as it involves alcohol tastings.

What if the weather is bad?
Most tours require good weather. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

In the end, this private bourbon tour offers a blend of flexibility, comfort, and authentic experiences. Whether you’re a bourbon novice or a seasoned connoisseur, the chance to visit iconic distilleries with knowledgeable guides and stunning views makes it a worthwhile addition to any Kentucky adventure.