Overview
Woodford Reserve Distillery in Versailles, Kentucky, is one of the most scenic and historically significant whiskey destinations in the Bluegrass region. The distillery sits on a historic site in Woodford County and is known for Woodford Reserve Bourbon, Double Oaked, Rye, Malt, Wheat, and limited Master’s Collection releases.
The brand emphasizes the “five sources of flavor” framework: grain, water, fermentation, distillation, and maturation. Its visitor experience presents Woodford Reserve as both a historic Kentucky distillery and a modern premium bourbon brand.
History
The Woodford Reserve site is tied to early Kentucky distilling history and the Old Oscar Pepper Distillery. Brown-Forman purchased the property in the 1990s and launched Woodford Reserve in 1996, positioning the brand as a premium Kentucky bourbon with deep historical roots.
The distillery’s stone warehouses, limestone setting, and preserved historic structures help make it one of the most photographed stops on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail.
Ownership and Operations
Woodford Reserve is owned by Brown-Forman. Elizabeth McCall serves as Master Distiller, succeeding Chris Morris, who became Master Distiller Emeritus. The distillery is known for combining pot still distillation at the Versailles site with broader Brown-Forman production expertise.
Woodford Reserve’s portfolio includes bourbon, rye, malt whiskey, wheat whiskey, Double Oaked, and special releases. Specific production details vary by expression and should be verified through current official materials.
Brands Produced
Major expressions include Woodford Reserve Distiller’s Select Bourbon, Woodford Reserve Double Oaked, Woodford Reserve Rye, Woodford Reserve Malt, Woodford Reserve Wheat, Woodford Reserve Master’s Collection, and Woodford Reserve Batch Proof.
Visitor Experience
Woodford Reserve offers guided tours, tastings, retail, and cocktail experiences by reservation. The official visitor materials emphasize guided tours through the historic distillery location and tastings of Woodford Reserve whiskeys. Reservations are strongly recommended.
Why This Distillery Matters
Woodford Reserve matters because it helped define premium bourbon for modern consumers while preserving a historic Kentucky site. It bridges old and new: classic Kentucky distilling heritage, modern brand education, and a broad portfolio designed to introduce drinkers to multiple American whiskey styles.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Woodford Reserve Distillery located?
It is located in Versailles, Kentucky.
Who owns Woodford Reserve?
Woodford Reserve is owned by Brown-Forman.
Who is the master distiller?
Elizabeth McCall is Master Distiller for Woodford Reserve.
Does Woodford Reserve offer tours?
Yes. Tours and tastings are offered by reservation.