The first licensed distillery in Bourbon County since Prohibition — a charming small-batch operation in historic Paris, Kentucky, where bourbon was literally born.
There's something poetic about visiting a distillery in Bourbon County — the actual county that gave bourbon its name. Hartfield & Co. in Paris, Kentucky was the first distillery to operate in Bourbon County since Prohibition shut everything down, and that historical significance alone makes it a noteworthy stop.
The distillery is a small, genuine craft operation on Main Street in downtown Paris. Owner David Meier is passionate about the craft and the history, and tours often have that personal, owner-led quality that the big distilleries can't replicate. They produce bourbon, rye, and rum in small batches using locally-sourced ingredients.
Paris itself is a charming small Kentucky town worth exploring — the downtown historic district has antique shops and local restaurants. The drive from Lexington is only about 20 minutes, making Hartfield an easy add-on to a Lexington-area distillery day. For bourbon purists who want to say they've sipped whiskey in Bourbon County, this is a pilgrimage.
Walk through the small-batch distillery operation with passionate guides who know the full story of Bourbon County's distilling heritage. Includes a tasting of their bourbon, rye, and rum. Intimate groups make it feel like a private tour.
Skip the production tour and go straight to a guided tasting of their full lineup. Good for visitors who've already done production tours elsewhere and just want to taste.
Hartfield rarely sells out. Paris is off the main trail path, so crowds are minimal. Walk-ups are almost always available. Just confirm their hours before making the drive.
Booking Method: Website or walk-up
Hardest Slots: Sat midday
Cancellation: Flexible
Walk-Up Chance: Excellent
Small and personal. Their bourbon, rye, and rum are available along with basic branded merchandise. You won't find a massive retail operation here — it matches the intimate scale of the distillery. Bottles are reasonably priced and make for a meaningful souvenir from the actual birthplace of bourbon.
Hartfield & Co. is a pilgrimage for bourbon history enthusiasts — sipping whiskey in the county that gave bourbon its name is a special experience. The tour is modest but genuine, and Paris is a charming small town worth the short drive from Lexington. Pair with Town Branch or James E. Pepper for a full Lexington-area day with real historical depth.
Address: 718 Main St, Paris, KY 40361
Hours: Tuesday–Saturday 10 AM – 6 PM (check website for current hours)
Parking: Street parking in downtown Paris. Easy to find.
Kids: Allowed, no tasting under 21.
Lexington's urban distillery. Good bourbon and beer combo.
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Itinerary Fit — See how Hartfield & Co. Distillery fits into our 3-Day Bourbon Trail Itinerary and plan your day-by-day route with nearby stops.