The most historic spirits site in America — a pre-Revolutionary War distillery in Augusta where bourbon pioneer John Baker fought in the American Revolution before settling in original Bourbon County.
Baker-Bird claims the title of the most historic spirits site in America — and there's real substance behind that claim. The distiller, John Baker, fought in the American Revolution and distilled in Washington County, Pennsylvania during the Whiskey Rebellion before moving to Kentucky. Located in Augusta in the original Bourbon County (yes, the actual Bourbon County that gave the spirit its name), this site connects visitors to the very origins of American whiskey. Before the big central Kentucky distilleries existed, corn-based spirits from hilltop stills in this area found their way down to the Ohio River ports. The operation today is small — a combined winery and distillery — but the historical significance is enormous. Augusta itself is a charming small town on the Ohio River, worth the detour for history-minded visitors. This is a deep-cut trail stop best suited for completists and bourbon history enthusiasts. It's remote from the main trail clusters, so plan accordingly.
Tour the historic site, learn about John Baker's Revolutionary War and Whiskey Rebellion history, and taste their spirits and wines. A living piece of American whiskey history.
Baker-Bird is remote and rarely crowded. Call ahead to confirm hours since this is a small operation. Worth the trip for history enthusiasts.
Booking Method: Walk-up or call
Hardest Slots: Rarely an issue
Cancellation: Flexible
Walk-Up Chance: Excellent
Small selection of spirits and wines. The historical provenance makes any bottle from here meaningful.
Baker-Bird is a bourbon history pilgrimage. If the origins of American whiskey matter to you — the Revolution, the Whiskey Rebellion, the original Bourbon County — this is the place to connect those threads. Remote and small, but deeply significant. Not for casual visitors, but unforgettable for enthusiasts.
Address: Augusta, KY 41002
Hours: Call ahead for current hours and availability
Parking: Free parking.
Kids: Allowed. No tasting under 21.
Another Northern KY heritage craft.
Historic Ohio River town.
Northern KY must-visit in Newport.
Charming Ohio River town with restaurants and river views.
Itinerary Fit — See how Baker-Bird Winery & Distillery fits into our 3-Day Bourbon Trail Itinerary and plan your day-by-day route with nearby stops.