Guided Half Day Tour in Lexington

Explore Lexington’s Premier Craft Distilleries for $200 per Person

This guided half-day tour in Lexington offers an engaging look into Kentucky’s renowned craft spirits scene. Priced at $200.00 per person and lasting approximately 4 hours, it includes visits to three distinguished distilleries: Bluegrass Distillers, RD1 Spirits, and Lexington Brewing & Distilling Co.. With a focus on both beer and bourbon, this tour provides guided tastings at each stop, making it a perfect choice for those eager to sample diverse spirits without a full-day commitment.

The tour is suitable for most travelers given the group size is limited to 12 people, ensuring a more personalized experience. It also features pickup options and the convenience of mobile tickets, streamlining the entire process. It’s worth noting that a valid 21+ ID is required for participation, as the tour involves tasting alcohol.

While the tour doesn’t include tours at Bluegrass Distillers and RD1 Spirits, the opportunity to taste award-winning spirits at RD1 and the guided tour of both bourbon and beer production at Lexington Brewing & Distilling Co. makes this experience truly worthwhile for spirits enthusiasts.

Key Points

• Price and duration: The tour costs $200 and lasts approximately 4 hours.
• Includes tastings: Guided tastings at Bluegrass Distillers, RD1 Spirits, and Lexington Brewing & Distilling Co..
• No tours at two stops: Bluegrass Distillers and RD1 Spirits only offer tastings, no sightseeing tours.
• Tour at Lexington Brewing & Distilling Co.: Features both a guided tour of the distillery and brewery, plus sampling of various products afterward.
• Group size and booking: Limited to 12 travelers, with pickup offered and mobile ticketing for ease.
• High rating: The tour boasts an impressive 5.0 out of 5 from the single review, praising the friendly, knowledgeable guide, Chris, who goes above and beyond.

Visiting Bluegrass Distillers: Tasting Only

The tour begins at Bluegrass Distillers, where guests receive a guided tasting of their finest spirits. While no tour of the distillery facilities is included here, the tasting session offers a chance to sample some of the distillery’s best offerings. The 45-minute visit makes for a relaxed introduction to Lexington’s craft spirits scene.

This stop provides an up-close look at Bluegrass Distillers’ spirits without the additional time investment of a tour, making it ideal for those who want to sample and learn about local distilling craftsmanship efficiently.

RD1 Spirits: Sampling Award-Winning Spirits

Next, the group moves to RD1 Spirits, known for their award-winning spirits. Here, guests receive a guided tasting of 4-5 different spirits, offering a broader sampling experience compared to the first stop. Like Bluegrass Distillers, RD1 Spirits does not offer a tour of the distillery itself, but the tasting session allows a detailed exploration of their distinct flavors and styles.

With a 60-minute window, this stop emphasizes tasting quality spirits, showcasing RD1’s reputation for excellence and craftsmanship.

Lexington Brewing & Distilling Co.: Combining Beer and Bourbon

The highlight of the tour is Lexington Brewing & Distilling Co., where guests receive a guided tour of both the distillery and the brewery. This 1 hour 15 minutes segment provides an inside look into how bourbon and beer are produced, offering a rare chance to see both processes in action.

Immediately following the tour, guests indulge in sampling several products of their choosing, allowing for a personalized tasting experience that combines craft beer and bourbon. This stop stands out because it blends production insights with tastings, giving a deeper appreciation of local brewing and distilling techniques.

Included Items and Practical Details

Guests are provided with bottled water throughout the tour, ensuring hydration during the tasting sessions and tours. The tour departs from a designated meeting point in Lexington, operating daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM between September 14, 2023, and June 17, 2026.

The booking process is straightforward, with confirmation received at the time of booking. Most travelers can participate, but a 21+ ID is necessary for alcohol tasting. The tour’s maximum group size of 12 helps maintain an intimate atmosphere.

Flexibility and Cancellation Policy

This tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility in case of change of plans. If canceled due to weather or insufficient booking, travelers are offered a full refund or alternative date.

Since the tour is weather-dependent, poor conditions may lead to a rescheduling or refund. Changes within 24 hours are not accepted, so timely cancellation is recommended if needed.

The Experience Provider: On Tap Tours

This tour is operated by On Tap Tours, a company specializing in craft beverage experiences. Their focus on small groups and high-quality tastings makes this tour particularly appealing for those wanting a relaxed, yet informative experience with local spirits.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

The combination of guided tastings at three diverse distilleries and the specialized experience at Lexington Brewing & Distilling Co. creates a rundown of Lexington’s spirits scene. The friendly and knowledgeable guide, Chris, receives high praise, suggesting a welcoming and educational environment.

The tour balances structure and flexibility, with tastings and a thorough tour at Lexington Brewing & Distilling Co. complemented by casual tastings at Bluegrass Distillers and RD1 Spirits. The limited group size ensures personalized attention, making it a great choice for small groups or those seeking a more intimate experience.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour Most

This experience is ideal for spirits enthusiasts eager to explore both bourbon and craft beer production, as well as those interested in Kentucky’s distilling culture. The guided tastings and production insights at Lexington Brewing & Distilling Co. add educational value, while the no-tour policy at Bluegrass and RD1 Spirits caters to those who prefer tasting over sightseeing.

While not focused on private or exclusive access, the highly rated guide and well-organized schedule make this a dependable choice for a fun, informative afternoon in Lexington.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for those under 21?
No, a valid 21+ ID is required to participate in the tastings, but non-drinking guests can join the tour segments without tastings.

Does the tour include actual distillery or brewery tours?
Only Lexington Brewing & Distilling Co. offers a guided tour of the production facilities. Bluegrass Distillers and RD1 Spirits only provide tastings.

What should I bring for this tour?
Guests should bring a valid 21+ ID for alcohol tastings. The tour provides bottled water, but comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended.

Can I cancel this tour if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance, offering peace of mind if your schedule shifts.

Is transportation provided between stops?
Yes, the tour includes transportation between the three distilleries, making logistics seamless.

How many people typically participate?
The maximum group size is 12, allowing for an intimate experience with personalized attention from the guide.

This guided half-day tour in Lexington combines tasting, education, and local culture, making it an engaging option for those wanting to experience Kentucky’s signature spirits without a full-day commitment.