Castle & Key Distillery — Local services in Bluegrass Region

Castle and Key Distillery, nestled in the heart of Kentucky's bourbon country, offers an unforgettable experience for spirit enthusiasts and casual visitors alike. From the moment you step onto the picturesque grounds, you are transported into a world where history meets craftsmanship.

The tour begins with a warm welcome from knowledgeable guides who expertly weave together the rich heritage of the distillery with captivating stories. Originally established in the late 19th century, Castle and Key has been revitalized, breathing new life into its historic buildings. As you wander through the beautifully restored grounds, you'll be enchanted by the stunning architecture and tranquil gardens that surround the distillery.

One of the highlights of the tour is the immersive exploration of the production process. Guests get an up-close look at the traditional methods used to create their renowned spirits, including small-batch bourbons and gins. The guides are eager to share their expertise, walking you through the various stages of distillation and aging, and answering any questions you may have along the way.

As the tour wraps up, guests are treated to a tasting of Castle and Key’s exceptional offerings. The tasting room exudes warmth and charm, providing the perfect setting to savor the distinct flavors crafted on-site. Each sip reveals the dedication and passion that goes into every bottle, leaving a lasting impression on your palate.

In summary, the Castle and Key Distillery tour is not just about spirits; it’s about celebrating heritage, craftsmanship, and community. Whether you’re a bourbon connoisseur or a curious newcomer, this experience is sure to delight and educate. Make sure to add Castle and Key to your itinerary when exploring Kentucky’s iconic distilleries for a truly...

Castle & Key Distillery – A Hidden Garden Sanctuary on the Bourbon Trail Nestled in a breathtakingly scenic and historic setting, Castle & Key Distillery offers more than just bourbon – it’s a place to slow down, wander, and soak in the beauty of Kentucky in its most elegant form. This isn’t just a distillery visit – it’s an escape. Originally built as the Old Taylor Distillery in the late 1800s and now magnificently restored, Castle & Key feels like a fairytale come to life. The castle-like architecture is stunning, but the real magic happens when you step into the gardens. These grounds aren’t just beautiful – they’re meditative. With winding paths, vibrant plantings, fountains, and shaded seating areas, it’s a space that invites you to linger, not just pass through. Whether you’re sipping a cocktail by the Springhouse or simply strolling along the reflecting pool, Castle & Key is one of the few distilleries where the outdoor experience rivals the bourbon itself. Time seems to slow down here – and that’s exactly the point. The tour itself is informative and the history behind the resurrection of this iconic site is worth hearing. While the distilling process may not be the most dramatic presentation on the trail, the passion behind the brand and its revival is evident. One drawback: filming was restricted in the gift shop during my visit, which felt a bit limiting in an otherwise open and serene environment. However, the shop is thoughtfully designed and full of beautifully packaged bourbons and curated merchandise. In short: Castle & Key isn’t just a distillery – it’s a destination. Come for the bourbon, stay for the gardens. It’s a place to breathe, to wander, and to appreciate the slower, quieter side of Kentucky’s...

WARNING-LONG REVIEW! But very worth it! Where do I begin! Let's start with our welcome at the gate! Andrew was so friendly. We recieved bottle water to make sure we hydrated on this warm August afternoon and 100% genuine to ensure safety and our well being. The grounds at Castle & Key are gorgeous! From the beautifully aged peach trees to the fullness of the hydrangeas. The smell and sound of water gives you a natural feel of calm and helps set the mood and pace for a one of a kind tour experience. They do have restrooms, they are very nice and were air-conditioned. They had a food truck when we were there and had a great corn hole area! If I recall correctly, our tour guides name was Maggie(sorry if I didn't get that right). She was extremely knowledgeable! Just the right balance of technical knowledge as well as people skills! Great personality! We truly enjoyed her! I loved that we got to see up close and personal the mash and at all different stages! That was cool! The old fashion was one of the best I have had in a very long time! I cannot say more about the staff, they are just so friendly, from the store, to the distillery to those just walking around! Aaron was another super friendly staff member that just stopped and sparked a conversation (specifically about a fun fact pertaining to a certain visitor that came to Castle & Key that was on my boyfriend's t-shirt). That paired with delicious whiskey, vodka and gin, it's an all in one package! Castle & Key, you've got it! Check out my photos and go! I promise you, you will not regret it. Thank you...