Stitzel-Weller Distillery

What to Expect

Stitzel-Weller is hallowed ground for bourbon enthusiasts. Opened on Derby Day 1935 by Julian "Pappy" Van Winkle Sr., this is the distillery that produced Old Fitzgerald, W.L. Weller, Rebel Yell, Cabin Still, and the legendary Pappy Van Winkle line. The names that echo through these rickhouses represent bourbon royalty. Now owned by Diageo, the distillery was reopened to the public in 2014 and the tour focuses heavily on history — which is exactly what makes it special. You'll walk the gorgeous, manicured grounds, step inside a working rickhouse, and see the cooperage where barrels are repaired. The campus has a beautifully curated feel that's distinct from other Louisville stops. The tasting features Diageo's current portfolio including Blade & Bow, I.W. Harper, Bulleit, and Orphan Barrel. The Garden & Gun Club upstairs offers cocktails and small plates in a refined lounge setting — it's worth lingering after your tour. Fair warning: some bourbon purists wish the tour leaned harder into the Van Winkle/Weller history rather than focusing on current Diageo brands. But the grounds themselves tell that story if you know where to look. Located in Shively, about five miles from downtown Louisville — it's a quick detour from the Whiskey Row distilleries.

Photos from Our Visit

The Old Fitzgerald smokestack — a landmark visible from across the campus

The main entrance — colonial architecture, painted horse, original 1935 character

The barrel museum — active aging overhead, historical artifacts below

The I.W. Harper lounge — tin ceiling, chandelier, vintage ads. One of the nicer tasting rooms on the trail.

Tour Options

How to Book

Book online 1–2 weeks ahead for weekends. Weekday tours are easier to snag. Limited tour capacity means walk-ups can be turned away, so don't chance it — especially during peak bourbon season (May–October).

Gift Shop

The gift shop carries Blade & Bow, I.W. Harper, Bulleit, and Orphan Barrel bottles plus unique merchandise. Prices tend to be higher than Louisville liquor stores — you're paying for the experience of buying at the source. Look for distillery-exclusive bottlings.

Our Honest Ratings

Practical Info

Address: 3860 Fitzgerald Rd, Shively, KY 40216

Hours: Wed–Sat 10 AM – 6 PM, Sun 12 PM – 6 PM, Mon 10 AM – 5 PM (Closed Tues)

Parking: Free lot on-site.

Kids: Must be 21 for tours. Kids not typically accommodated.

Nearby & Pair With