Lexington, Kentucky, may be known as the heart of bourbon country, but it’s also home to a growing craft beer scene. Whether you’re a fan of Kentucky bourbon or craft brews, Lexington offers a range of local distilleries and breweries that provide cozy, indoor tasting experiences perfect for any season. Here’s a guide to some of the top spots where you can sip, savor, and learn about Kentucky’s rich brewing and distilling traditions.
1. Bluegrass Distillers
For a classic Kentucky bourbon experience, start with Bluegrass Distillers. Located in Lexington’s popular Distillery District, this small-batch distillery prides itself on creating handcrafted bourbons with locally sourced grains. The tasting room is a warm, welcoming space where visitors can learn about Bluegrass Distillers’ unique bourbon-making process, which includes everything from milling to barreling and aging. A tour of the facility ends with a tasting of their signature bourbons, including options like Bluegrass Wheated Bourbon and the Blue Corn Bourbon.
Must-Try: The Blue Corn Bourbon, known for its smooth, rich flavor with notes of caramel and vanilla.
Location: 501 W Sixth St #165, Lexington, KY
Tip: Book a tour in advance, especially on weekends, to secure your spot, as this distillery’s intimate setting is popular with both locals and visitors.
2. Town Branch Distillery
As one of the first distilleries to open in Lexington since Prohibition, Town Branch Distillery is a staple in the local distilling scene. Owned by Alltech, this distillery specializes in both bourbon and beer, making it a unique stop where you can sample two of Kentucky’s favorite beverages under one roof. The tour includes an in-depth look at the bourbon and brewing processes, from mashing to fermentation, and concludes with a tasting that features Town Branch Bourbon, Town Branch Rye, and selections from Lexington Brewing Company’s popular beers, such as the Kentucky Bourbon Barrel Ale.
Must-Try: The Kentucky Bourbon Barrel Ale, a smooth, caramelized beer aged in bourbon barrels for a signature Kentucky flavor.
Location: 401 Cross St, Lexington, KY
Tip: The Town Branch tour often fills up quickly, so reserve your tour and tasting in advance.
3. West Sixth Brewing
One of Lexington’s most beloved craft breweries, West Sixth Brewing is located in a former bread factory and features an expansive indoor space perfect for sipping on a cold day. Known for its vibrant community vibe and commitment to sustainability, West Sixth offers a diverse lineup of craft beers, from IPAs to stouts and seasonal brews. Their taproom has a cozy, laid-back atmosphere, and the tasting flights allow visitors to sample a wide variety of flavors. The brewery also offers tours, which give a behind-the-scenes look at the brewing process.
Must-Try: The West Sixth IPA, a hoppy, refreshing beer with hints of citrus and pine, and the Cocoa Porter, a rich, chocolatey winter favorite.
Location: 501 W Sixth St, Lexington, KY
Tip: Pair your beer with food from Smithtown Seafood, the on-site restaurant offering locally sourced, beer-friendly bites. The beer-battered fish and chips are a standout!
4. Ethereal Brewing
Located in Lexington’s Distillery District, Ethereal Brewing is known for its adventurous and innovative brews. The brewery’s industrial-style taproom features exposed brick and cozy seating, creating a welcoming atmosphere that’s perfect for a winter tasting. Ethereal specializes in Belgian-style and experimental beers, so it’s a great place for craft beer lovers looking to try something new. Their wide selection includes everything from sour ales to IPAs, and their rotating taps mean there’s always something different to sample.
Must-Try: The Lambda Oatmeal Stout, a smooth, creamy stout perfect for colder weather, and the Wanderland IPA, an experimental IPA with a balanced flavor profile.
Location: 1224 Manchester St, Lexington, KY
Tip: Ethereal is located in an area with multiple bars and restaurants, so you can easily spend an afternoon exploring other nearby spots, like Crank & Boom Ice Cream Lounge or Middle Fork Kitchen Bar.
5. James E. Pepper Distillery
If you’re interested in both history and bourbon, the James E. Pepper Distillery is a must-visit. This historic distillery, originally founded in 1780, was recently revitalized and now offers a fantastic tasting experience that blends tradition with modern craftsmanship. During the tour, you’ll learn about James E. Pepper’s legacy and the distillery’s revival, which includes a detailed look at the distilling and barreling process. The tasting features their flagship bourbon and rye whiskey, allowing you to savor the flavors of one of Kentucky’s oldest brands.
Must-Try: The 1776 Rye, a spicy, complex rye whiskey with notes of honey and clove.
Location: 1228 Manchester St, Lexington, KY
Tip: After your tasting, take a walk around the historic Distillery District, where you’ll find additional bars, eateries, and shops.
6. Mirror Twin Brewing
Mirror Twin Brewing offers a unique concept with its “mirror twin” brews—two beers made with the same ingredients but crafted in different ways to create distinct flavors. The taproom is a lively, spacious setting with plenty of indoor seating, and the friendly staff are always happy to make recommendations based on your preferences. The brewery offers a diverse selection of beers, from hoppy IPAs to smooth lagers and creative seasonal options, making it a fun spot to relax and sample something different.
Must-Try: The Citranomical IPA, a refreshing citrus-forward IPA, and the aptly named Double Down, a rich, malty brew that’s perfect for winter.
Location: 725 National Ave, Lexington, KY
Tip: Mirror Twin shares its space with Rolling Oven, a pizzeria known for its wood-fired pies—an ideal pairing for any of their beers.
7. Barrel House Distillery
For a true taste of Lexington’s craft distilling scene, head to Barrel House Distillery. Located in the Distillery District, this small distillery produces an impressive array of spirits, including bourbon, moonshine, and vodka. The cozy tasting room provides a friendly, laid-back atmosphere, where you can enjoy a tasting flight and learn about their unique production process. Each of their spirits has a distinct character, and the staff are passionate about sharing the stories behind each bottle.
Must-Try: The Devil John Moonshine, a smooth yet potent drink with a hint of sweetness, or the RockCastle Bourbon, which features a complex flavor with notes of caramel and spice.
Location: 1200 Manchester St, Lexington, KY
Tip: Barrel House is a quick walk from other Distillery District attractions, so you can easily include it in a tasting tour of the area.
Warm Up with Lexington’s Finest Beverages
Whether you’re in the mood for bourbon or beer, Lexington’s distilleries and breweries provide welcoming indoor spaces to sample local flavors and enjoy Kentucky’s rich beverage culture. From cozy tasting rooms to historic settings, each location offers a unique experience that immerses you in the art of Kentucky spirits and craft brewing. So this winter, grab your friends, bundle up, and dive into Lexington’s vibrant world of tastings and tours—it’s a road trip well worth toasting. Cheers!