Seven distilleries. Seven exclusive bourbons. One collection. With 11 unique distillery experiences within 16 miles, Bardstown stands tall as the Bourbon Capital of The World. Every year, the Kentucky town’s vibrant distilling community joins together to release a one-of-a-kind bourbon series — The Bardstown Collection. The Collection’s grand unveiling, which expands to seven participating distilleries this year, will take place during the first annual National Bourbon Week, June 11-16, 2024, a celebration of the rich heritage and craftsmanship behind America’s native spirit.
In a true display of craftsmanship and camaraderie, the seven participating Bardstown distilleries are set to release a hand-selected, premium bourbon available exclusively on-site as part of The Bardstown Collection. With less than 500 bottles available from each distillery, the Collection 2024 promises to be an elite affair, marking it as the bourbon event of the year. These limited-edition bottles are not just rare; they’re a testament to the artistry and passion that define Bardstown’s bourbon scene.
For a taste of this exclusive bottled collection, visitors can purchase tickets for The Bardstown Collection Release Party, taking place at My Old Kentucky Home on June 11 or visit each of the participating distilleries during the release dates.
“In Bardstown, bourbon isn’t just a drink; it’s a way of life,” said Jeff Crowe, Chairman of Bardstown Tourism. “The Bardstown Collection 2024 is a testament to the traditions and dedication that define our town as the heart of bourbon culture. The attention to detail, level of craftsmanship, and most importantly, superlative flavor profiles are why we say that Bourbon Comes From Bardstown.”
Participating Distilleries + Release Dates + Tasting Notes
- Preservation Distillery + Farms (June 12, 9 a.m.): Preservation Distillery and Farm is excited to release a cask-strength blend of their own wheated pot distilled Kentucky Bourbon, layered with liquid from some of their most precious vintage Kentucky Bourbon casks.
- Heaven Hill Distillery (June 12, 12 p.m.): Heaven Hill’s 2024 Bardstown Collection release consists of three carefully blended barrels aged between 7 and 16 years. The bourbon is bottled at 105 proof and consists of Heaven Hill’s traditional bourbon mashbill of 78% corn, 10% rye and 12% malted barley. The extra aged nature of the bourbon results in aromas of spice, leather and toasted oak with notes of cinnamon spiced apples, nutmeg and caramel on the palate.
- Lux Row Distillers (June 13, 9 a.m.): Lux Row Distillers’ contribution will feature three single barrels from their wheat recipe (68% corn, 20% wheat, 12% malted barley). Aged six years, these barrels went through an additional toasted finishing process with toasted caramel honey staves for a rich, full-bodied finish.
- Limestone Branch Distillery (June 13, 12 p.m.): With a mash bill that dates back to the 1930s, Limestone Branch’s Bardstown 2024 selection is a six-year-old, 100% pot-distilled wheated bourbon, made with 28% red winter wheat, which produces an exceptionally approachable yet complex whiskey.
- Log Still Distillery (June 13, 3 p.m.): Log Still’s 2024 Bardstown Collection release is a 9-year-old Kentucky High-Rye Bourbon that evenly blends aromas of sweet caramel with lingering earthy scents of smoke and oak. On the palate, bourbon lovers will enjoy a burst of full-flavored spices blended with mild sweetness of honey, providing a warm, smooth finish.
- Bardstown Bourbon Company (June 14, 9 a.m.): Blending innovation with classic Kentucky flavor, Bardstown Bourbon Company’s offering to the Collection this year is a layered, complex balance of ripe cherry with toasted oak leads to cinnamon, maple, and spearmint.
- James B. Beam Distilling Co. (June 14, 12 p.m.): Aged for close to 20 years, James B. Beam Distilling Co.’s Bardstown Collection 2024 selection is the oldest whiskey that the iconic brand has ever released. Delivering intense flavors of oak, vanilla and sweet smoke, it’s sure to be a fan favorite.
Throughout National Bourbon Week, attendees can partake in a range of festivities including special distillery events, curated tastings, unique bourbon education opportunities and the 21st Annual Bourbon City Street Concert. This comprehensive series of experiences is crafted to offer bourbon enthusiasts an unparalleled immersion in the Bourbon Capital of the World.
For more information, go to bardstowncollection.com and visitbardstown.com/national-bourbon-week,
