A revived pre-Prohibition distillery in Lexington's Distillery District — producing the bourbon that inspired the Old Fashioned cocktail, surrounded by restaurants, shops, and breweries.
James E. Pepper sits in the heart of Lexington's Distillery District — a revitalized area of historic distillery buildings now home to restaurants, breweries, and shops. The distillery itself has a fascinating backstory: the original James E. Pepper bourbon was the spirit reportedly used to create the Old Fashioned cocktail at the Pendennis Club in Louisville.
The revived distillery is a craft operation producing bourbon, rye, and other spirits in the restored historic buildings. Tours cover the production process and the rich history of the Pepper family's distilling legacy, which dates back to the late 1700s.
The Distillery District location is a major plus — you can easily spend half a day here between the tour, lunch at one of several restaurants, and browsing the shops and breweries. It's the most walkable distillery destination in the Lexington area.
Guided tour through the restored historic distillery covering the Pepper family's 200+ year distilling legacy and modern production. Includes a tasting of their bourbon, rye, and seasonal offerings. The Old Fashioned connection makes for a great story.
A guided tasting without the full tour. Perfect if you want to sample their lineup and spend more time exploring the surrounding Distillery District.
James E. Pepper is moderately easy to book. The Distillery District location brings foot traffic, especially on weekends, but it's rarely fully booked weeks in advance. A few days' notice is usually sufficient.
Booking Method: Website
Hardest Slots: Sat 1–3 PM
Cancellation: 24hr notice
Walk-Up Chance: Moderate–Good
The gift shop carries their full bourbon and rye lineup along with branded merchandise. The Old Fashioned-themed items are popular. The Distillery District itself has additional shopping options if you want to extend your visit.
James E. Pepper is the ideal Lexington add-on — the Distillery District setting, Old Fashioned history, and walkable surroundings make it a natural pairing with Town Branch. It's more about the neighborhood experience than a jaw-dropping tour, but the history is genuinely interesting and the location can't be beat.
Address: 1228 Manchester St, Lexington, KY 40504
Hours: Wednesday–Sunday (check website for current hours)
Parking: Street parking and small lots in the Distillery District. Can be tight on weekends.
Kids: The Distillery District is family-friendly for walking. Tours allow kids, no tasting under 21.
Lexington's urban distillery. Good bourbon and beer combo.
Right in the Distillery District. Easy to combine visits.
Multiple dining options within walking distance.
Outstanding farm-to-table in downtown Lexington.
Itinerary Fit — See how James E. Pepper Distillery fits into our 3-Day Bourbon Trail Itinerary and plan your day-by-day route with nearby stops.