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Jim Beam Distillery Tour – Clermont, Kentucky

Jim beam distillery tour: a deep dive into bourbon mastery.

The Jim Beam Distillery Tour, an immersive journey into the world of bourbon, set in the heart of Kentucky’s renowned whiskey-making region. This tour is a profound exploration of Jim Beam, one of the most iconic bourbon brands in the world. It’s perfect for whiskey enthusiasts eager to explore the rich history, intricate craftsmanship, and the evolution of bourbon at one of America’s oldest distilleries.

Discover the History with Jim Beam Distillery Tour

Your tour begins with a captivating look into the Jim Beam legacy, a story woven into the fabric of American whiskey history. Learn about the seven generations of the Beam family that have crafted bourbon since 1795, their resilience through challenges like Prohibition, and how Jim Beam has grown into a global bourbon phenomenon.

Insight into the Art of Bourbon Making

Gain a comprehensive understanding of bourbon production as you walk through the Jim Beam Distillery. Experience the entire process up close, from the selection of grains to the intricacies of mashing, fermentation, distillation, and the crucial aging process. The tour gives you an appreciation of the time-honored techniques and modern innovations that contribute to the quality of Jim Beam bourbon.

Tasting the Jim Beam Legacy

A highlight of the tour is the tasting experience, where you can indulge in a range of Jim Beam’s exquisite bourbons. Each tasting is an opportunity to appreciate the unique flavor profiles that have made Jim Beam a household name in bourbon. Expert guides lead these sessions, enriching your understanding of bourbon’s subtleties.

Exploring the Distillery Grounds and Facilities

The tour also includes a walk around the expansive and historic distillery grounds. Immerse yourself in the beauty of the Kentucky landscape and the iconic architecture of the Jim Beam Distillery, which blends historical buildings with state-of-the-art facilities.

Innovation in Bourbon Production at Jim Beam

Discover how Jim Beam has remained at the forefront of bourbon innovation. The tour showcases the distillery’s commitment to evolving its production techniques while staying true to the traditional bourbon-making practices that define its legacy.

An Experience Tailored for All

The Jim Beam Distillery Tour is designed to cater to both bourbon aficionados and newcomers alike. The tour is structured to be engaging, educational, and enjoyable for everyone, ensuring that all visitors leave with a deeper appreciation and knowledge of bourbon.

Sustainability and Environmental Stewardship

Learn about Jim Beam’s dedication to sustainability and responsible production. The tour highlights the distillery’s initiatives in eco-friendly practices and sustainable resource management, emphasizing its commitment to preserving Kentucky’s natural environment.

Behind the Scenes: The Art of Aging

Delve into the art of aging bourbon during the tour. Explore the vast rackhouses where Jim Beam bourbons age to perfection, and learn how factors like barrel selection, warehouse conditions, and Kentucky’s unique climate contribute to developing the bourbon’s distinctive flavors.

Exclusive Bourbons and Limited Editions

The tour offers a peek into Jim Beam’s exclusive and limited edition releases. These special bourbons, often available in limited quantities, showcase the distillery’s expertise in crafting unique and sought-after whiskey expressions.

A Comprehensive Bourbon Experience

The Jim Beam Distillery Tour is a comprehensive and enriching experience, offering a deep dive into the world of bourbon making. It’s an opportunity to connect with the rich history, complex flavors, and innovative spirit of one of America’s most storied bourbon brands.

Ready to immerse yourself in the heritage and craftsmanship of bourbon making? Book your Jim Beam Distillery Tour today and join us on a captivating journey through the world of Jim Beam. Experience the tradition, savor the flavors, and explore the innovation behind this legendary bourbon. Reserve your spot now for an unforgettable exploration in Kentucky’s bourbon country!

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Old Tub Bourbon – Jim Beam distillery

Old Grand-Dad Bourbon – Jim Beam distillery

Legent Bourbon – Jim Beam distillery

Knob Creek Bourbon – Jim Beam distillery

Knob Creek 12 Year Bourbon – Jim Beam distillery

Knob Creek 10 Year Bourbon – Jim Beam distillery

Knob Creek 9 Year Bourbon – Jim Beam distillery

Knob Creek 7 Year Rye Whiskey – Jim Beam distillery

Jim Beam Single Oak Bourbon – Jim Beam distillery

Jim Beam Double Oak Bourbon – Jim Beam distillery

Jim Beam Devil’s Cut – Jim Beam distillery

Jim Beam Bourbon – Jim Beam distillery

Jim Beam Black – Jim Beam distillery

Booker’s Bourbon Collection – Jim Beam distillery

Basil Hayden’s Bourbon – Jim Beam distillery

Baker’s Bourbon Collection – Jim Beam distillery

Vacation starts with our tours around kentucky, enjoy amazing tours along the kentucky bourbon trail with a great team of expert guides..

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Jim Beam American Stillhouse

Fans of Jim Beam will love the behind-the-scenes tour experience at the world-renowned distillery. Guided tours of Jim Beam take you through the process of whiskey making from start to finish. See the bottling line for Knob Creek — and even get a chance to bottle your own bourbon. Plus, see how bourbon is produced, aged and perfected here.

Jim Beam Bourbon Distillery Tour

The Beam name has been known for great bourbon for many years. Get a family history on your tour and walk through several aspects of the distilling process. Learn about grains, water, yeast and more. Also, breathe in the sweet smells of aging bourbon in the air (known as the “angel’s share”) in a working rickhouse.

Mint Julep Experiences offers bourbon tours to Jim Beam several days a week.

Jim Beam Bourbon Tastings

One of the Kentucky Bourbon Trail’s most unique tasting offerings is at Jim Beam. Each tour ends with your choice of a wide range of Beam brands. Pick any three from a long list that may include Baker’s, Basil Hayden, Booker’s, Knob Creek and several Jim Beam classic and flavored expressions.

BOOK A MINT JULEP TOUR HERE

Things to know about Jim Beam

Frequently asked questions.

Where is Jim Beam made?

Jim Beam is made at 526 Happy Hollow Road in Clermont, Ky.

Who owns Jim Beam?

Jim Beam is owned by Beam Suntory, a Japanese distilled beverage company.

What bourbons and whiskeys does Jim Beam produce?

Sister brands to Jim Beam include Baker’s, Basil Hayden, Booker’s, Knob Creek, Red Stag, Old Crow, Old Grand Dad, Old Overholt, Old Tub and Old Bourbon Hollow.

Is Jim Beam on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail?

Yes, Jim Beam is a member of the Kentucky Bourbon Trail® with two distillery locations. Jim Beam American Stillhouse is in Bardstown, Ky. Jim Beam Urban Stillhouse is in downtown Louisville. You can stamp your Bourbon Trail® passport at either location.

Which distilleries are near Jim Beam?

Jim Beam is near Bardstown, the Bourbon Capital of the World, so there are plenty of bourbon tour options nearby. Distilleries near Jim Beam include Maker’s Mark, Willett, Heaven Hill and Lux Row.

Where can I find out more about Jim Beam?

Learn about Jim Beam at jimbeam.com .

Start Planning Your Kentucky Bourbon Distillery Tour

Let’s start planning your ultimate Kentucky bourbon distillery tour today! We offer a variety of public tours as well as custom-made experiences that are tailored to your every bourbon desire.

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A visit to jim beam.

For many years the Kentucky Bourbon Trail has given bourbon lovers an opportunity to visit their favorite distilleries and get a sneak peek into how whiskey is made. Bourbon tourism has exploded along with the explosive growth in the American Whiskey category, and many of the major bourbon brands have responded by building new visitor centers and enhancing their visitor experience.

Jim Beam is the largest producer of bourbon, bottling a staggering ninety million bottles of spirits annually. Until recently, visitors at Jim Beam could only see a small fraction of the process. Jim Beam’s American Stillhouse, a $30 million visitor experience, brings bourbon fans deeper into the distillery and shows them the entire process for making both Jim Beam bourbon and the company’s small batch line.

The American Stillhouse experience begins in a new LEED-certified interactive center which serves both as the launching off point and the end gift shop for tours. Jim Beam offers two types of tours: a free, self-guided tour of the Stillhouse, tasting room, distiller’s home, and rack house; or, the guided full tour for $8 per person which also includes bringing visitors inside the heart of the distillery.

The Jim Beam guided tour begins at a duplicate of the company’s well pump. Most bourbon producers in Kentucky point to their natural limestone filtered water as a key element for making good whiskey. Limestone filters out iron in water, which is highly undesirable, and adds calcium to the mix, which is helpful for providing nutrients for the years during the fermentation process.

The next stop on the tour is a newly erected small batch micro-distillery. Three 500-gallon fermenters feed a small column still. The set-up looks like what you’d find in a small, independent micro-distillery. Although the new micro-distillery was set up for the American Stillhouse tour, it is fully functional and is producing spirit for the company. This small batch area echoes the original scale of Jim Beam and mirrors the small batch process used to produce the company’s Knob Creek, Bookers, and Baker’s lines.

From the micro-distillery, visitors are brought through the barreling process, which features a wall of fame showing significant landmarks for Jim Beam’s barrels including barrel #1 from 1935 and barrel #12,000,000 from 2011.

It’s at this point that the tour really pulls back the curtain and visitors get to see the massive scale of Jim Beam’s operation. The tour brings visitors through one of the fermentation rooms with a sea of massive fermentation tanks. Jim Beam ferments a staggering one million gallons at a time and visitors get to see a few of Beam’s 19 fermentation tanks.

From these tanks the fermented distiller’s beer is piped through over a mile of pipes into a massive set of stills. The Jim Beam stills produce 200 gallons of new make spirit per minute and unaged whiskey flows from these stills like water through a firehose.

After visiting Jim Beam’s massive stills, visitors are brought to one of Beam’s active bottling lines. The scope of what Jim Beam does is clear, with a dizzying number of bottles that are filled, labeled, and boxed.

Throughout the tour, walls are adorned with tributes to the various members of the Beam and Noe family. Although the scale of what Jim Beam does is massive, there is still a clear goal to preserve the connection with the family and the brand’s heritage (even the safety signs for employees use the Beam family).

After visiting the bottling area, visitors are lead to a room that pays tribute to the Beam family as well as showcases custom decanters produced by Jim Beam throughout the generations. At the centerpiece of this is the new decanter which commemorates the American Stillhouse, sold only at the distillery.

The next stop on the tour is back near the American Stillhouse and mirrors the self-guided tour. Visitors are given access to one of Jim Beam’s rackhouses to see some of the over 600,000 barrels of whiskey aging on the property.

The final stop on the tour is a state of the art tasting room where visitors are given tasting cards that enable them to use machines that dispense 1/4-ounce pours of all of Jim Beam’s whiskey products. Each visitor gets two 1/4-ounce samples.

After the tour is complete, the American Stillhouse acts as the company’s gift shop, which features three products which can only be purchased at the distillery.

Jim Beam American Stillhouse 2012 Clermont Limited Edition Bourbon – Hand-numbered and signed by seventh generation Jim Beam family Master Distiller Fred Noe, only 2,400 bottles of this seven-year-old whiskey are available. $34.99

Old Tub Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey – Prior to Prohibition, Jim Beam Bourbon was called Old Tub. Aged four years at 100 proof and bottled in bond. Old Tub is sold in 375ml flasks. $16.00

Jim Beam American Stillhouse Decanters – A nod to the grand opening of the Jim Beam American Stillhouse, this commemorative decanter brings back a piece of Jim Beam history. Since the early 1950’s, hundreds of Beam decanters have celebrated history, sports, politics, and more. Each decanter sells for $199.

One of the key messages repeated throughout the Jim Beam American Stillhouse is “Come as a friend, leave as family.” This ethos is greatly embodied by the tour of Jim Beam, which does a superb job of giving bourbon fans a real look behind the scenes of the largest producer of bourbon in the world. Seventh generation Fred Noe has also relocated his office to the old distiller’s home that sits between the American Stillhouse and the tasting room, and he intends to greet visitors when he is in town.

The Jim Beam American Stillhouse is located approximately 30 minutes southeast of Louisville (526 Happy Hollow Rd., Clermont, KY 40110) and is open weekdays and Saturdays 9:00am to 5:30pm, and Sundays from 12:00pm to 4:30pm. Jim Beam has also set up a new website at AmericanStillhouse.com for more information and online ticket reservations.

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LIVING THE DREAM

Kentucky Bourbon Trail – A Three Day Guide to Pack it All In

Published by Jeremy . Last Updated on July 9, 2022.

Disclaimers : Our site uses demographic data, email opt-ins, display advertising, and affiliate links. Please check out our Terms and Conditions for more information. Listed prices and attraction details may have changed since our visit and initial publication.

The bourbon trail in Kentucky is a pilgrimage spot for those who love this amazing spirit. Being bourbon lovers ourselves, we finally got the chance to visit the region to check out some of our favorite distilleries as well as others we've always wanted to try.

During our visit we stayed for four nights, three days, and learned a lot about what goes into planning a good bourbon trail itinerary. As such, we wanted to share all those tips with you in our three day bourbon trail guide!

Bourbon Trail Tours? Use This DIY Itinerary

During our trip to Kentucky we spent four nights in the region and three days exploring the bourbon trail.  We arrived late in the evening which accounted for our first full night. From there, our distillery visits included the following:

• Day 0 (overnight Louisville): Arrive
• Day 1 (overnight Louisville): Bulleit, Evan Williams Experience, Jim Beam Urban Stillhouse
• Day 2 (overnight Lexington): Kentucky Artisan Distillery (Jefferson's), Maker's Mark
• Day 3 (overnight Lexington): Buffalo Trace, Woodford Reserve, Four Roses

The first day was spent exploring distilleries and experiences in/near Louisville as Angie had our car for the day and I had to stay local. For those who have a car, I'd recommend skipping the Evan Williams and Jim Beam locations inside the city and instead visit Jim Beam and Four Roses bottling shop in Bardstown. (If you don't have a car, check out these packaged tours !)

The second day I was lucky enough to steal the car from Angie and visited the Kentucky Artisan Distillery, home to Jefferson's bourbon (amongst others) as well as make the long haul down to Maker's Mark. I had to get back early to pick Angie up to head to Lexington, sadly, but visitors could also add on Heaven Hill this day without issue.

On our third day we explored distilleries outside of Lexington together, and hit Buffalo Trace, Woodford Reserve, and Four Roses. Wild Turkey is another distillery incredibly close to Four Roses, but we did not have enough time to swing a tour.  If you plan your day out perfectly you might be able to make it all work, but you would be incredibly rushed. Likewise, we also missed the final distillery on the “official” bourbon trail, Town Branch in central Lexington, purely from a timing issue.

Overall, the problem with exploring the bourbon trail is that the distances between distilleries are great and they only typically do tours and tastings between 9am/10am and 4pm. As such, you may have to miss a few on your visit if you are short on time much like we were.

This then begs the questions: how were all the tours and were they worth it? 

For those who are short on time and have to pick and choose distilleries to visit, this is the most important question.

A Summary of Bourbon Distilleries Visited

The following is a brief summary of each tour and tasting offered at the distilleries we visited in July 2016.  As prices and tasting offerings change regularly, your experience may vary.

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I will also be noting our favorite spirits from each distillery below, if only just so you can judge your own pallet against ours in determining if a distillery is worth visiting with your limited time. We are not connoisseur's like dedicated bourbon blogs, but we do have a fine enough appreciation to be able to talk about bourbon at length here.

Bulleit was one of my favorite tours as the distillery was gorgeous and has a fascinating history.  The hour-long tours depart on the hour and cost $10.  At the end of the tour we sampled five bourbons including Bulleit bourbon, Bulleit 10 year, I.W. Harper label, Blade and Bow label, as well as a cask strength Bulleit bourbon.  The 10 year Bulleit was by far my favorite as the extra aging smoothed out the flavors considerably while still retaining that signature Bulleit flavor.  Overall, this one was one of my favorite tours for both the facilities and the tasting, and is highly recommended.

Evan Williams Experience

For those who are short on time, the Evans William Experience in downtown Louisville is more of a museum than a distillery, and includes several rooms with videos playing that display the history of Louisville's first distillery ($12 fee). While the tour was unique and informative, it was also a bit cheesy and over the top. The sampling included Evan Williams Black Label, Evan Williams Single Barrel (my favorite of the bunch), Larceny, and a bourbon filled chocolate to finish. Overall, I wasn't that impressed; but since this is also a working distillery and they are planning releases from the on-site R&D laboratory in the future, I may keep an eye on this one. Advance reservations are recommended; however, tours go out every 30 minutes so you may not have issue getting on a tour upon arrival.

Jim Beam Urban Stillhouse

Kentucky Artisan Distillery

The tours at the KAD depart on the hour (most hours), although can be reserved in advance.  This distillery is rather small, and does not have much to speak about as it is a communal distillery for many labels including Jefferson's, Highspire Whiskey, and Whiskey Row. Up until a few months ago the county this distillery is found in was dry, meaning they could not offer samples (what a sad tour that would've been), but luckily that has changed.  Our tasting included Jefferson's Oceans (a bourbon aged on boats sailing around the world), Highspire, Whiskey Row, and a choice of one additional Jefferson's product. I chose Jefferson's Reserve because it was the reason for my visit and was not disappointed (although the Oceans was by far my favorite). If you have to pick one distillery to skip on day two, this would be it purely because the facility is not necessarily tour worthy- but I recommend trying Jefferson's bourbon along the way as it was one of my favorites. Tours are $12.

Maker's Mark

The furthest distillery of the bunch is Maker's Mark.  Do not let the distance fool you, however, as this $9 tour and tasting is one of the best in the region.  The campus of the distillery itself is massive, gorgeous, and is worth the drive alone. It is recommended to make reservation for tours in advance, and judging by the crowds I can see why this is necessary. The tasting included four samples, including Maker's White, regular Maker's Mark, Maker's 46, as well as a random cask strength variety they produce (ours was from a batch made by a local race track). This tasting was one of my favorites because you could taste your way down the progression of stronger iterations of Maker's Mark, something most distilleries are unable to offer.

Buffalo Trace

Woodford Reserve

Out of all of the estates we visited, Woodford Reserve may have been the best for the scenery at the estate and the quality of the tour.  The tour guide we had was the most knowledgeable out of all the tours we took, and the tour itself featured everything you'd like to see while at a distillery (including the most beautiful stills in the region). The tasting, on the other hand, was disappointing as it included only two samples and a chocolate. I know that Woodford Reserve only really makes three or four bourbons anyway, but the $14 ticket price did not match up with my expectations (and to be quite honest, I was turned off that one of those samples was Woodford Double Oak- one of my least favorite premium bourbons there is).  In either case, the grounds here are quite nice and if you wish to take a tour, book this one in advance as it is possibly the most visited of all.

Finally, we come to Four Roses. We visited this one during a plant upgrade and unfortunately were given two options upon arrival.  The first was to take a tour anyway, knowing that we could not see everything that was on a traditional tour. The second was to try a tasting only, which was being offered special during this downtime.  We opted for the latter and had a quick, 30-minute tasting of Four Roses, Four Roses Single Barrel, and Four Roses Cask Strength with a rather detailed explanation of each for $5. We adored the Four Roses Single Barrel, and picked up a bottle before leaving Kentucky. After visiting so many distilleries we were rather happy to have the option to just do a tasting here as, to be quite honest, you can only learn about how bourbon is made so many times before it gets old. Hopefully they keep the tasting option on once the plant upgrade is finished as we quite enjoyed it!

Where to Buy Kentucky Bourbon

As someone who prides himself on saving money any chance he can get, you shouldn't be surprised when I say that I am always looking for the best deal on alcohol. Since I live in a state that charges an obscene premium on liquor, I planned to do a bit of shopping while on the bourbon trail (and by a bit, I mean about $300 worth).

In order to find the best deals when looking where to buy Kentucky Bourbon, there are only two things you need to consider while visiting Kentucky:

• Distilleries do not compete with local distributors. This means that their prices are often much higher than their local counterparts- often to the tune of $5-$10 a bottle.
• Distilleries do often have a special release that you can only find there. These are also at a premium price, but when you can't get them anywhere else, it is also the best deal.

These two points mean that you should ask each distillery if they have anything they only sell there (which are almost never up on the tasting menu, sadly), and it also means you should spend a bit of time exploring the local stores if you intend to do a bit of shopping.

From our experience we recommend checking out the Liquor Barn stores as they have some of the best prices and largest selections. Your experience may vary, but keep in mind we did stop in a lot of stores while exploring Louisville and Lexington, and also price checked against The Party Source in Newport, Kentucky (one of the largest liquor stores there is) and with our home liquor stores (both have online price checkers for sanity checks).  In nearly all cases, with Jefferson's being a rare exception, Liquor Barn had the best prices for the bourbons we were looking for, with  The Party Source having good sale prices on select bottles here or there.

Looking for a Place to Stay Along the Bourbon Trail?

During our visit to the bourbon trail we spent four nights in Kentucky, which allowed us to have three full days exploring the distilleries. As mentioned above, we recommend four nights because you'll want the extra time to cover the (sometimes) large distances between distilleries. For those who want to do  everything , you may want to have five nights just to be sure as the limited operating hours will make hitting them all in three days almost impossible.

In terms of hotels, we spent two nights at the Hilton Garden Inn in downtown Louisville (located right near Fourth Street Live), and two nights at the Campbell House in Lexington (located a few miles outside of downtown). This gave us a leg up on the morning drives each day, and is highly recommended. (We paid for our stays at both on points.)

The Hilton Garden Inn in central Louisville is your standard Hilton hotel, so for those who want a more historic option you may want to look at the Seelbach Hotel which is located just a few doors down (they also have a stellar bourbon bar). The Campbell House felt like a plantation estate (although in an urban environment) and had an incredibly wonderful ambiance you'd be hard pressed to find anywhere else in the city, although the bar was somewhat lacking.

Want to explore the Bourbon Trail but don't want to drive? We get it. Check out these tours from Viator to have a driver while you visit the distilleries!

Have any questions or comments about the bourbon trail, the distilleries we visited, or anything else featured in this guide? Comment below to let us know!

About Jeremy

About the Author: Jeremy is a full-time travel writer based in Pittsburgh and primary author of this site. He has been to 70+ countries on five continents and seeks out new food, adventure activities, and off-the-beaten-path experiences wherever he travels.

12 thoughts on “Kentucky Bourbon Trail – A Three Day Guide to Pack it All In”

Thanks for all the info! Do you have to book a reservation at each distillery or can you just show up and try to catch the next one?

Honestly, it is hard to say. Rules change too quickly, especially in the current environment, so we’d recommend checking with each individual place.

Just read through this, as we are planning a quick trip to the Bourbon Trail (driving from Eastern PA) in March 2021. We booked Campbell House, as well, and we did so in part because they advertise a “bourbon bar featuring over 300 bourbons,” and we thought it would be a nice place to sit and sample when we come back at night. Is their description of the bar overblown or inaccurate?

It’s been a while since we went, but I wouldn’t have any reason to think their 300 bourbon claim is incorrect. Admittedly, if memory serves its ambiance wasn’t as good as say The Seelbach in Lexington.

I going to Kentucky for a bourbon tasting and some tours. My question if you answer it is, do I have do all the tours or can I do taste at some of the distillers. Thank you for your help. Kathy.

Most of the distilleries operate under a tour then tasting. I think you would need to call and see if there are any that offer tastings only.

We just did the Bourbon trail over memorial weekend. We hit 14 of 16 (O.Z. and Rabbit Hole, so close!). We did 2 tours, but tastings at most. Do not skip Angel’s Envy. It was the best tasting of the whole trip.

Super helpful and a great start to my research as we plan our trip. Thanks!

Hi there, Great post, really informative! Can you give me any advice / tips on driving vs. drinking the samples? I don’t know what the laws are out there and we were planning to drive ourselves around the distilleries. Thanks!

I probably shouldn’t/couldn’t comment specifically as the number of drinks one could consume legally varies by more factors than simply number of distilleries visited. You won’t be told you can’t sample if you’re driving (at least this wasn’t true when I went), but the rest is up to you on being responsible.

Hi Jeremy, I have to disagree with you about KY Artisan being the one distillery to skip. In comparison to the other distilleries you visited, that is the only one on your list that is a true micro distillery. Keeping in mind, all the “big boys” started off that small at one time, aka micro distillery. The others on your list produce for volume and to increase marketing appeal to the consumer. Let’s negate the fact that one of your favorites was Bulleit, which doesn’t even produce/distill that brand. Want to see where Diageo makes Bulleit, drive to Shelbyville, KY and maybe you will see them building a rick house, but no spirits are being produced. On top of that, the “big boys” have more money than they know what to do with to make them “tour worthy” as you said. Sorry to say this, but you were “had” by the cryptic message the “big boys” want you to buy into. You saw gaudy show pieces producing the same thing, only difference is, you heard seven different versions of the same story of how to make whiskey. Now, Kentucky Artisan Distillery does make whiskey, however they have actual distillers that doing physical labor, unlike the “big boys” that has some Ops guy sitting behind a computer screen clicking away on his mouse and waving at people as they walk by his desk. The other great thing about KY Artisan Distillery is the Master Distiller is actually involved with the day-to-day operations, unlike the “big boys” that parade their Master Distillers around to just kiss babies and sign autographs. Did you see Chris Morris rolling a barrel or greeting people at the door when entering Woodford?

In conclusion, if you came to Kentucky to see just the big brand whiskey makers, than you truly missed out on what true distilling is and the art behind it. You wouldn’t go to Italy and eat Pizza Hut or McDonalds, would you?

Come on back to Kentucky and see the passion behind micro distilleries.

Calm down, all I said was there wasn’t much to see on the tour and to try the bourbon elsewhere. Between you, me, and everyone else reading this, as a chemical engineer I actually LOVE to see the big distilleries because their equipment and scale is impressive. If I wanted to see a mom and pop distillery I’d build one myself (or go to the one around the corner from my house which wins more national awards than any in the country), and I can’t recommend people with limited time to take a tour just because the Master Distiller may say hello (although, admittedly that is a nice touch).

I went to the distilleries I did because I enjoy their bourbon or haven’t but wanted to try their bourbon, which is literally what every single visitor to the bourbon trail does. The mom and pop shops may make good bourbon, sure, but the tours are small and nowhere near the caliber of the big producers. No one going to the bourbon trail for the first time is going to go out of their way to check them out, and as much as I like finding undiscovered places, I will highly advocate the big boys any day of the week in that respect.

So, to steal your same conclusion, you wouldn’t go to Italy and skip the Colosseum, Vatican City, Venice, and Florence would you? Some people do, but we didn’t want to. And yes, I have eaten at McDonalds in Italy too, for a meal following one of the most delicious homemade Italian meals I’ve ever had. It happens.

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A whiskey blog for whiskey reviews, whiskey cocktails and commentary

Jim Beam Lineage Bourbon Review

Josh Peters · July 2, 2021 · 6 Comments

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Beam isn’t known for their travel retail offerings, which is only part of why this Jim Beam Lineage Bourbon is so interesting. The name stems from the family having run the distillery since the beginning and this offering was a collaborative effort between father (Fred) and son (Freddie). But the most interesting thing about this whiskey being a GTR offering is that it doesn’t suck.

Far too often global travel retail options are awful. Some of the most recent GTR offerings I had the displeasure of reviewing were the Highland Park 14 Years Loyalty of the Wolf  and the Bunnahabhain Eirigh Na Geine . They’re far from being the only examples, I’ve had far more misses than hits with GTR, but I also don’t want to give the impression that all GTR offerings suck.

They often do and, more-often-than-not, tend to be little more than overpriced cash grabs, but sometimes you get a Laphroaig Brodir and it seems like maybe GTR offerings might not be completely terrible. I’ve already spoiled the reveal that this is good, and can be added to the “doesn’t suck” GTR list, but the question remains of just HOW good the Jim Beam Lineage Bourbon is. Let’s get to drinkin’ and get an answer.

Jim Beam Lineage Bourbon – Details and Tasting Notes

Whiskey details.

Region : Kentucky

Distiller : Jim beam Mash Bill : 77% Corn, 13% Rye and 10% Malted Barley Cask : New Charred Oak Age : 15+ Years ABV : 55.5%

Cask Strength | Non-Chill Filtered | Natural Color

Price : $250*

Tasting Notes

EYE Deep oaky brown

NOSE Deep, complex, sticky dark fruit, oak, roasted nuts, cinnamon-heavy baking spice, creamy vanilla, rich caramel, peanut brittle, touches of citrus peels and leather.

This is one of the deepest, most complex aromas I’ve had from a Jim Beam product that wasn’t a Booker’s release. This is intense!

PALATE Same heavy, sticky, dark fruit character with even more oak battling for dominance, roasted peanut-peanut brittle, cinnamon heavy baking spice, hazelnuts, leather, vanilla custard, pepper, some citrus peel, anise and a warm herbal undertone.

Good hell this is an intensely flavorful and compelling dram to sit and sip. Palate of the Jim Beam Lineage Bourbon is even more complex than the aroma with deep, new, notes arriving one after another as it opens. LOVE it.

FINISH Long -> Oak and dark fruit fade out to baking spice, nuts and leather.

BALANCE, BODY and FEEL Great balance, full-round body and a warm oily feel.

Jim Beam Lineage Bourbon – Overall Thoughts and Score

I pulled out 3 Booker’s to do a blind comparison with and see how this compared and who came out on top. The combatants were Pigskin Batch , Boston Batch and Kentucky Chew and 3/3 times the Lineage took number one with the KC coming in a fairly close second (2/3). And if you’re curious the Boston came in 3rd twice. This bourbon is something else though and for the sake of curiosity, I took it on a roadshow.

A very good friend of mine recently turned 50 and so we had a small, outdoor, whiskey event in his honor that ended up being a 50+ bottle share. I brought the Jim Beam Lineage Bourbon and let some very educated palates give it a taste . It was an instant hit. So much so that the bottle disappeared by the end of the night. Through a convoluted series of events we got the bottle back, but still, it was a coveted bottle that night.

If you add some water to this extraordinary bourbon, oak rises further to the top along with some molassesy brown sugar notes on the aroma. On the palate, it picks up a light biscuity quality along with even more oak and an explosion of peanuts and hints of clove and black tea which slides a bit more into the finish as well. Lineage is a GTR, and the price reflects that, but I can honestly say, without a single doubt, that Lineage is the best bourbon I’ve ever had from Jim Beam.

SCORE : 5/5 – Superstar

*Disclosure: The bottle for this bourbon review was graciously sent to me by the company without obligation. The views, opinions, and tasting notes are 100% my own.

Jim Beam Lineage Bourbon Review $250

This is intensely deep, warm and complex across the senses with a finish that goes on forever. This is the best bourbon Jim Beam has produced to-date.

User Review

More from the whiskey jug.

Pops up from time to time at the distillery

Got a bottle of this in February at the Jim Beam Distillery. They said they had an unknown (to Fred and Freddie) issue and so they had quite a bit still on hand to release daily in the store. Paid same as GTR $250…got them to sign the bottle so waiting for the right occasion to crack it open. Just wanted to let people know that you can still sometimes get it at the distillery.

That’s great to know, thanks!

Just picked this up at Hong Kong airport . Can’t wait to try

Jealous, hope you enjoy it!

How can I get Lineage in NC?

Unfortunately, it’s only a Global Travel Retail bottle. You have to travel internationally and get it at an airport.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

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Jim Beam Distillery Tour, Events & Tastings (2024 Best Edition)

• Written By Lydia Martin
• February 23, 2024

Last Updated on April 4, 2024 by Lydia Martin

The Jim Beam brand, founded in 1795, is one of the oldest bourbon brands in the US. It’s home to over 125 different labels and variations of bourbon and North American whiskey. 

The place offers an informative and interactive tour if you’re interested in seeing the behind-the-scenes of what makes the brand special.

Let’s look at the Jim Beam Distillery Tour so you know what to expect. 

Table of Contents

About The Jim Beam Distillery Tour

Jim Beam has two distilleries: the Jim Beam American Stillhouse, located in the rolling foothills of Clermont, Kentucky, and the Jim Beam Urban Stillhouse in downtown Louisville, Kentucky. 

The Jim Beam Bourbon Distillery Tour is conducted in the Clermont distillery.

This 90-minute guided tour is your chance to experience the distilling expertise of James B. Beam Distilling Co and discover how the Beam family has been making Kentucky straight bourbon whiskey for over two centuries. 

The tour ends with a guided tasting in one of their newly-built tasting rooms, where you’ll have the opportunity to experience genuine Kentucky-style bourbons. The bartenders will also build you cocktails at the nearby American Outpost bar. 

You can also visit the Gift Shop for souvenirs. 

What’s It About 

The James B. Beam Distilling C is located at 568 Happy Hollow Road, Clermont, KY. 

This bourbon distillery tour is available every 90 minutes from Wednesday to Sunday (Mondays and Tuesdays excluded) 

Tours start as early as 9:00 am, with the last scheduled at 3:30 pm. You may view the calendar on their official website to check availability 

Distillery Events

The Jim Beam Distillery is part of the Kentucky Bourbon Trail, a yearly event to promote the local distilleries in Kentucky, the world’s bourbon capital. 

The Kentucky Bourbon Trail lets you tour over 40 distilleries in 90 minutes. There is also no right or wrong way to go around the birthplace of bourbon — every Bourbon Trail journey is personalized, depending on how you want to go about it. 

Read: Jim Beam Collector Bottles

Jim Beam Distillery Tour Features 

The tour features an exclusive, behind-the-barrel journey at all your favorite Beam Bourbons, starting from the brand’s history.

This tour gives you a backstage pass to your favorite Jim Beam Kentucky Bourbon, starting from the natural limestone water, locally-sourced grains to the special yeast that Jim Beam himself kept within the family.

You’ll also see the hardest-working still in America that make some of their labels, including Basil Hayden and Knob Creek, in action. 

Of course, the bourbon production process isn’t just about the fermentation and distillation — you’ll also get to visit their historic Warehouse F, where the magic of maturation happens. [ 1 ] 

Guests who are fans of Knob Creek Bourbon are in luck — they’ll get to walk their bottling line and purchase a Single Barrel bottle, with the opportunity to become a Beam family distiller and customize the label themselves. 

The tour ends with a trip to the Jim Beam American Outpost bar, where you’ll taste bourbon from Jim Beam, Knob Creek, and Basil Hayden, and get bourbon cocktails. 

If you’re not in a hurry, you can also pull up a chair at Fred’s Smokehouse, a bourbon-inspired cafe near the area. 

Read: Top 15 Whiskey Distilleries in Scotland

Other Things To Consider

• The bourbon tour is only available to guests 21 years old (legal drinking age) and above. 
• Only 24 attendees are allowed per tour schedule, with each tour lasting for 90 minutes. 
• Military with valid IDs are granted free admission. 
• If you wish to cancel your reservation for whatever reason, you may do so for up to 24 hours to get a full refund. Cancellations of tours done less than 24 hours before the scheduled tour will not be refunded. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is jim beam distillery worth visiting.

Visiting the Jim Beam distillery is an exceptional experience that offers a deep dive into the world of bourbon production and the rich history of one of America’s most iconic distilleries. Whether you’re a bourbon enthusiast, history buff, or simply someone looking for an enjoyable outing, the Jim Beam distillery has something to offer for everyone.

Nestled in the heart of Kentucky’s Bourbon Country, the Jim Beam distillery boasts a picturesque setting surrounded by rolling hills and lush landscapes. The distillery’s historic charm and scenic beauty provide the perfect backdrop for an immersive and memorable tour.

During your visit, you’ll have the opportunity to explore the distillery’s facilities and learn about every step of the bourbon-making process, from grain to glass. Knowledgeable guides lead guests through the production area, aging warehouses, and bottling lines, offering fascinating insights into the craftsmanship and dedication that goes into creating Jim Beam bourbon.

One of the highlights of the tour is the chance to witness firsthand the massive column stills and towering aging warehouses where Jim Beam bourbon is distilled and aged to perfection. The sights, sounds, and aromas of the distillery bring to life the time-honored traditions and techniques that have been passed down through generations of master distillers.

Of course, no visit to the Jim Beam distillery would be complete without a tasting experience. Guests have the opportunity to sample a variety of Jim Beam bourbon expressions, from the classic Jim Beam White Label to limited-edition releases and specialty bottlings. Tasting sessions allow visitors to savor the distinct flavors and aromas of each bourbon, gaining a deeper appreciation for the craftsmanship and artistry that defines Jim Beam’s legacy.

In addition to the informative tours and tastings, the Jim Beam distillery offers a range of amenities and attractions for visitors to enjoy. The on-site gift shop features an array of bourbon-related merchandise, including bottles of Jim Beam bourbon, branded apparel, and unique souvenirs. The distillery grounds also offer scenic walking trails, picnic areas, and picturesque photo opportunities, making it an ideal destination for a day of exploration and relaxation.

How long is the Jim Beam distillery tour?

The length of the Jim Beam distillery tour can vary depending on the specific tour package chosen. Generally, the standard tour lasts approximately one hour, during which guests are guided through the distillery’s facilities, including the production area, aging warehouses, and bottling lines.

Along the way, knowledgeable guides provide insights into the history of Jim Beam bourbon and the distillation process, offering an engaging and informative experience.

For those looking for a more in-depth exploration, specialty tours and tasting experiences are also available, which may extend the duration of the visit. These tours often include additional attractions or behind-the-scenes access, allowing guests to immerse themselves further in the world of Jim Beam bourbon.

Overall, visitors can expect to spend approximately one to two hours enjoying a distillery tour at Jim Beam, depending on the tour package chosen and individual preferences.

Where is the original Jim Beam distillery?

The original Jim Beam distillery, known as the Jim Beam American Stillhouse, is situated in Clermont, Kentucky, USA. Located in the heart of Kentucky’s Bourbon Country, the distillery has been producing bourbon since 1795, making it one of the oldest and most storied bourbon distilleries in the United States.

The Jim Beam American Stillhouse serves as a historic landmark and visitor center, welcoming guests from around the world to explore its facilities, learn about bourbon production, and sample a wide range of Jim Beam bourbon expressions.

With its rich history, scenic surroundings, and immersive tours, the original Jim Beam distillery is a must-visit destination for bourbon enthusiasts and anyone interested in experiencing the true spirit of Kentucky’s bourbon tradition.

How many Jim Beam distilleries are there?

Jim Beam, one of the most iconic names in American bourbon, operates multiple distilleries across Kentucky, the heartland of bourbon production. The primary and original distillery, known as the Jim Beam American Stillhouse, is located in Clermont, Kentucky.

Here, visitors can delve into the rich history and heritage of Jim Beam bourbon through guided tours that showcase the distillation process, aging warehouses, and bottling lines.

Additionally, Jim Beam has expanded its footprint with the Jim Beam Urban Stillhouse in Louisville, Kentucky. While the Urban Stillhouse primarily serves as a visitor center and tasting room rather than a full-scale distillery, it provides guests with an immersive bourbon experience and offers a glimpse into the craftsmanship behind Jim Beam bourbon.

Is Jim Beam considered cheap?

Jim Beam is often perceived as an accessible and budget-friendly bourbon option, particularly when compared to higher-priced premium or small-batch bourbons. Its flagship expression, Jim Beam White Label, is widely available and competitively priced, making it a popular choice for bourbon enthusiasts seeking quality at an affordable price point.

However, it’s important to note that Jim Beam offers a range of expressions beyond its entry-level offering, including premium and limited-edition releases that cater to discerning bourbon connoisseurs.

These expressions may command higher prices and are crafted with the same dedication to quality and tradition that defines the Jim Beam brand. Ultimately, whether Jim Beam is considered “cheap” is subjective and may depend on individual taste preferences, budget considerations, and the specific context in which the bourbon is being evaluated.

What city is best for bourbon tours?

While several cities in Kentucky offer exceptional bourbon tours and experiences, Louisville stands out as a top destination for bourbon enthusiasts. Known as the gateway to Bourbon Country, Louisville boasts a vibrant bourbon scene and a wealth of attractions that celebrate the spirit’s storied heritage.

Louisville is home to a diverse array of distilleries, ranging from industry giants like Buffalo Trace and Woodford Reserve to boutique craft distilleries such as Angel’s Envy and Rabbit Hole. Visitors can explore these distilleries through guided tours that offer insights into the bourbon-making process and the history of each brand.

Additionally, Louisville’s Urban Bourbon Trail—a collection of bars and restaurants specializing in bourbon cocktails—provides an immersive experience for those looking to sample a variety of bourbon-based drinks and explore the city’s culinary offerings.

In addition to its distillery tours and bourbon bars, Louisville offers a range of cultural attractions and events that celebrate the spirit of bourbon. The Kentucky Bourbon Festival, held annually in nearby Bardstown, attracts bourbon enthusiasts from around the world with its lineup of tastings, seminars, and events. Louisville’s Frazier History Museum is another must-visit destination for bourbon enthusiasts, housing an extensive collection of bourbon-related artifacts and exhibits that chronicle the history of Kentucky bourbon.

Overall, Louisville’s blend of historic charm, culinary excellence, and world-class bourbon experiences make it an ideal city for bourbon tours. Whether you’re a seasoned bourbon aficionado or a curious newcomer, Louisville offers a rich tapestry of bourbon-related attractions and activities to explore, ensuring an unforgettable journey through the world of Kentucky bourbon.

What to buy at Jim Beam distillery?

Visiting the Jim Beam distillery offers an exciting opportunity to explore a wide range of bourbon-related merchandise and unique souvenirs. Some popular items to consider purchasing at the Jim Beam distillery include:

Bourbon: Of course, one of the main attractions at the Jim Beam distillery is its extensive selection of bourbon. Guests can purchase bottles of Jim Beam bourbon, including the classic Jim Beam White Label and other expressions such as Jim Beam Black Label, Jim Beam Single Barrel, and limited-edition releases.

Exclusive Releases: The Jim Beam distillery often offers exclusive releases and specialty bottlings that are only available for purchase at the distillery gift shop. These limited-edition bourbons showcase unique flavor profiles and are highly sought after by bourbon enthusiasts.

Merchandise: The distillery gift shop features a variety of branded merchandise, including apparel, glassware, bar accessories, and other bourbon-themed items. Whether you’re looking for a t-shirt, hat, or whiskey glass to commemorate your visit, you’ll find a wide selection of merchandise to choose from.

Barrel-Aged Products: In addition to bourbon, the Jim Beam distillery offers a range of barrel-aged products, including bourbon-infused sauces, marinades, and gourmet food items. These unique products are made with authentic Jim Beam bourbon barrels and offer a delicious way to incorporate bourbon flavors into your cooking.

Souvenirs: Lastly, don’t forget to pick up a few souvenirs to remember your visit to the Jim Beam distillery. From keychains and magnets to postcards and shot glasses, there are plenty of affordable keepsakes available to commemorate your bourbon adventure.

Can I buy bourbon at Jim Beam distillery?

Yes, visitors to the Jim Beam distillery have the opportunity to purchase bottles of bourbon at the distillery gift shop. The gift shop offers a wide selection of Jim Beam bourbon expressions, including the classic Jim Beam White Label as well as other varieties such as Jim Beam Black Label, Jim Beam Single Barrel, and limited-edition releases.

Guests can browse the selection, sample different bourbons, and purchase bottles to take home as souvenirs or gifts for friends and family. Additionally, the distillery often offers exclusive releases and specialty bottlings that are only available for purchase at the distillery, making it a unique destination for bourbon enthusiasts looking to add to their collection.

Is Jim Beam a whiskey or bourbon?

Jim Beam is a bourbon, which is a specific type of whiskey that must meet certain legal requirements to be classified as such. Bourbon is made primarily from corn and aged in new charred oak barrels, giving it a distinct flavor profile characterized by sweetness, caramel notes, and hints of vanilla.

Jim Beam bourbon is crafted using a traditional family recipe that has been passed down through generations of master distillers, resulting in a smooth and flavorful spirit that has become a beloved American tradition. So, while all bourbons are whiskey, not all whiskeys are bourbon, and Jim Beam proudly falls into the bourbon category.

Does Jim Beam own Jack Daniel’s?

No, Jim Beam does not own Jack Daniel’s. These two iconic American whiskey brands are owned by different companies. Jim Beam is owned by Beam Suntory, which is a subsidiary of Suntory Holdings Limited, a Japanese beverage company.

On the other hand, Jack Daniel’s is owned by Brown-Forman Corporation, an American-owned spirits and wine company based in Kentucky.

Is Jim Beam Jack Daniel’s?

No, Jim Beam is not Jack Daniel’s. While both Jim Beam and Jack Daniel’s are well-known American whiskey brands, they are distinct and separate entities with their own unique histories, production methods, and flavor profiles. Jim Beam is a bourbon, which is a type of whiskey primarily made from corn and aged in new charred oak barrels.

Jack Daniel’s, on the other hand, is a Tennessee whiskey, which undergoes a charcoal filtering process known as the Lincoln County Process before aging in oak barrels. While both brands are celebrated for their quality and craftsmanship, they each offer their own distinct taste and character.

Key Takeaways  

The Jim Beam American Stillhouse Tour is one of the best bourbon experiences we’ve been to, as it’s a pretty immersive tour from start to finish. 

If you’re a fan of Jim Beam brands or just eager to learn more about fermenting, distilling, maturing, and bottling bourbon, this is a great place to go.

The tour begins with sharing the company’s history, getting to know their raw materials, and seeing their stills in action. It finishes with a Kentucky bourbon-tasting experience in their newly-built tasting room. 

So if that sounds interesting, this hands-on experience is highly recommended. 

Reference: 

• Maturation, blending, and packaging

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