If you’re tired of the big-city hustle and just want to get away for a while, there simply are not many more authentic southern-esc vortexes than when you agree to join one of the public bourbon tour packages Kentucky will come to offer you. “I had requests from people who wanted to experience the full flavor of the Kentucky bourbon trail in a group environment with other like minded fans,” says Tronner. Ideal for solo travelers, friends and business groups, public tours offer a structured, social and informative way to experience the heart of bourbon country.
More than 95% of the world’s bourbon comes from the state of Kentucky, and its distilleries are spread all over the rolling hills, valleys and small towns of the Bluegrass State. The climate, with its wide variations in temperature and high humidity, is all important to the production of good bourbon. Add to that the limestone-filtered water in the area and it should be no surprise that Kentucky has become the center of American whiskey. Public tours are intended to provide you with a broad sample of history and heritage, visiting both larger internationally known distilleries and lesser known hidden gems only locals tend to know about.
The reason so many people choose these public bourbon bus tours is that they are a perfect mix of convenience and immersion. You don’t have to figure out your route, book separate tastings, or worry about how you’ll get from one distillery to the next because they do that for you. These trips generally have transportation, a diverse number of guides to visit, trying samples and frequently lunch or local dining. It helps, of course, to hit the tasting rooms with a guide, which is pretty standard on these group tours (the guides tend to really know their history, how the stuff is made, and about the different regional variations of Kentucky bourbon).
Technically speaking, bourbon is a variety of American whiskey that has to meet certain federal requirements. It is required to be made from at least 51% corn, distilled at a maximum of 160 proof, and aged in new charred oak containers. To distinguish their product, many distilleries also pay special attention to their own special mash bills, fermentation process, and aging process. Hot topics you’re bound to hear on your tour include the science of barrel aging, the impact char levels of wood can have on flavor and how a rickhouse’s location can affect the ultimate flavor of the spirit. Such knowledge adds to the experience, which goes beyond mere sipping to a trip through craft and tradition.
Halfway through your group tour, you realize that each distillery has something different to offer. Others key in on heritage recipes passed down for generations, while still others are experimenting with experimental barrels or limited batch releases. Public tours often feature interactive elements, be they nosing exercises, hands-on demonstrations, sometimes even a short blending session, all depending on the distilleries. Bourbon enthusiasts who are interested in broadening their palate or furthering their education, here’s a new way to experience the product outside of the glass.
Another big advanatage of group tours is the social aspect. You also bond with other travelers over the experience, often having good chats, especially during tastings or a lunch stop. And for may, the rush or finding a new bourbon or hearing a great story from a master distiller is even greater when shared experience. Whether you’re a beginner or a professional this shared expedition makes the trail an even more fun experience.
“Of course, in the midst of that content, you need to bring up the angle that public bourbon tour packages Kentucky are also affordable and available. These tours are often a fantastic value because costs such as transportation and tasting fees are all wrapped up in one price and can be more expensive if you plan everything yourself. Then, of course, the driving is taken care of, so everyone can enjoy the samples thoroughly and safely without worrying about navigation.
By the end of your journey, you will have seen several distilleries, sampled a spectrum of bourbons — sweet and smooth to bold and spicy — and left with a greater understanding for the history and nuance of Kentucky’s signature spirit. Inspiration public group tours such as this offer iconic trip experiences and the perfect mix of learning, entertainment, and rest.
Finally, visiting Kentucky’s top bourbon destinations through public bourbon tour packages Kentucky offers is one of the top-notch ways to get a taste of the state’s whiskey heritage. You’ll benefit from expertly orchestrated itineraries, meet people like you on the road, and make discoveries that go well beyond what a self-guided trip can provide. If you’re looking for a weekend away or longer, this group activity embodies the essence of Kentucky.