Versailles, KY – Bourbon is more than just a drink—it’s a deep-rooted part of American history and culture. And no place can claim a more significant role in that history than Woodford County, Kentucky—the birthplace of Bourbon.
Woodford County, nestled in the heart of Kentucky’s Bluegrass region, is home to some of the earliest distilleries that pioneered what we now recognize as bourbon whiskey. The county’s rich limestone-filtered water, ideal climate, and rolling landscapes made it the perfect place for early settlers to refine the art of distillation.
One of the most notable figures in bourbon history, Elijah Craig, is often credited with refining the distillation process that led to bourbon’s signature charred-oak barrel aging. While historians debate details, what remains undisputed is Woodford County’s central role in shaping bourbon’s identity. The renowned Woodford Reserve Distillery, one of the oldest operating distilleries in the country, continues this proud tradition today.
Oscar Pepper built a distillery downtown which is now Big Spring Park in 1838. This site shares the history of enslaved individuals who were a big part of the distilling industry.
Dr. James Crow, the Father of Bourbon came to Woodford County in 1825 from Scotland as a chemist who helped to perfect the process of distillation and is now buried in the Versailles Cemetery.
Elijah Pepper in 1838 built the oldest production facility that is still standing today on the ground of Woodford Reserve.
Oscar Pepper inherited the distillery from his father Elijah and passed down to his son James Pepper who helped to make bourbon the worldwide phenomenon we know it to be today.
Colonel E.H. Taylor birthed the idea of bourbon tourism with bringing guests on train to what’s now Castle and Key and still a global destination today.
“Woodford County is proud to be the Birthplace of Bourbon,” says Emily Downey, Executive Director of Visit Woodford. “Our natural resources and the craftsmanship of early distillers established a legacy that lives on in every glass poured today.”
Visitors to Woodford County can experience bourbon history firsthand through distillery tours, historic landmarks, and annual events that celebrate this world-famous spirit. Whether sipping a carefully aged bourbon or walking the same grounds where legends once perfected their craft, there is no better place to explore America’s native spirit.
Woodford County is home to numerous bourbon distilleries and experiences such as:
- Bluegrass Distillers
- Castle and Key
- Woodford Reserve
Along with coming soon a micro-distillery in The Aldenberg Hotel, The Kentucky Castle’s new focus and bourbon investment along with quaint experiences at The Amsden Bourbon Bar or a stay at the bourbon themed The Woodford Hotel.
Woodford County is just minutes away from 12 distilleries within a 20 minute drive, making us a hub for bourbon tourism.
