Northern Kentucky's premier distillery bringing bourbon history back to the region that once rivaled Bardstown — with a beautifully designed tasting room and compelling pre-Prohibition heritage.
Boone County Distilling brings bourbon back to Northern Kentucky — a region that was once a major distilling hub before Prohibition shut everything down. Located in Independence (about 15 minutes from Cincinnati), this distillery revives the legacy of pre-Prohibition Northern Kentucky bourbon.
The facility is well-designed with a handsome tasting room and production area. The tours cover both the regional history and the modern craft production, with guides who clearly love telling the Northern Kentucky bourbon story. The tasting features their lineup including some creative expressions you won't find in the major regions.
For visitors flying into Cincinnati or coming from Ohio/Indiana, Boone County and nearby New Riff make Northern Kentucky a viable starting or ending point for a bourbon trail trip.
Full tour of the production facility covering the distilling process and Northern Kentucky's bourbon heritage. Includes a tasting of their bourbon, wheat whiskey, and other expressions. Passionate guides make the regional history come alive.
Seated tasting focused on their full portfolio including limited releases and single barrel offerings. Good for serious whiskey drinkers who want to go deeper.
Boone County is easy to book year-round. Northern Kentucky sees significantly less trail traffic than the main corridor. Walk-ups are frequently available.
Booking Method: Website
Hardest Slots: Sat midday
Cancellation: Flexible
Walk-Up Chance: Good
Good selection of their bottles including some distillery-only picks. The branded merchandise is well-designed. If you're looking for unique bottles to bring home, the Northern KY distilleries often have less competition for limited releases.
Boone County is essential for Northern Kentucky visitors and a worthy stop for anyone wanting to understand bourbon's pre-Prohibition geography. Pair with New Riff for a Northern KY day that shows you both the heritage and the modern craft of the region. Especially convenient if you're flying in/out of Cincinnati.
Address: 10601 Toebben Dr, Independence, KY 41051
Hours: Thursday–Saturday 10 AM – 5 PM, Sunday 12 PM – 5 PM (check website)
Parking: Free lot on-site.
Kids: Allowed, no tasting under 21.
The best distillery in Northern KY. Essential pairing.
Waterfront dining and entertainment area. Great for dinner.
Just across the river. Hotels, restaurants, and nightlife.
Head south to Frankfort for the #1 rated trail stop.
Itinerary Fit — See how Boone County Distilling Co. fits into our 3-Day Bourbon Trail Itinerary and plan your day-by-day route with nearby stops.