Founded by a direct descendant of Bardstown's founder — a craft distillery bringing bourbon back to the town that bears the Bard family name.
The Bard Distillery carries real historical weight — co-founder Thomas Bard is a direct descendant of William Bard, who founded Bardstown, Kentucky in 1780. That connection between the distillery, the family, and the town itself gives this stop a layer of meaning that few craft operations can match. Located in the Bourbon Capital of the World, The Bard is a small craft distillery producing bourbon and other spirits using traditional methods. Tours are casual and personal, with the kind of access to the production process that you won't get at the bigger Bardstown operations. Bardstown is already loaded with excellent distillery options, so The Bard works best as an add-on to a day that includes Heaven Hill, Willett, or Bardstown Bourbon Co. The historical connection to the town's founding makes it a conversation piece — especially for history-minded visitors.
Tour the craft distillery and taste their bourbon lineup. Learn about the Bard family's connection to Bardstown's founding. Personal and unhurried.
The Bard rarely has booking issues in a town full of bigger distillery options. Walk-ups are typical. Check hours before visiting.
Booking Method: Walk-up or call
Hardest Slots: Rarely an issue
Cancellation: Flexible
Walk-Up Chance: Excellent
Small selection of their craft spirits and merchandise. The Bardstown heritage story makes their bottles unique conversation-starters.
The Bard Distillery is a meaningful Bardstown add-on for visitors who appreciate the deep connection between bourbon and place. The founding-family heritage is genuine and the craft spirits are solid. Not a must-visit on its own, but a nice complement to a Bardstown day.
Address: Bardstown, KY 40004
Hours: Check website or call for current hours
Parking: Free parking.
Kids: Allowed. No tasting under 21.
The essential Bardstown stop.
Beautiful craft campus.
Modern innovation meets tradition.
Charming restaurants and shops.
Itinerary Fit — See how The Bard Distillery fits into our 3-Day Bourbon Trail Itinerary and plan your day-by-day route with nearby stops.