Angel’s Envy, Stitzel-Weller and Kentucky Artisan Bourbon Tour

If you’re looking to get a real taste of Kentucky’s famous bourbon scene without the hassle of planning every detail, this tour from Mint Julep Experiences might just be worth considering. It promises a full day of guided visits, tastings at three renowned distilleries, and a local lunch—all within about nine hours. Our review is based on the detailed info and reviews from participants, so you can get a good sense of what to expect.

What we like about this experience is how it combines expert guidance with a curated set of distilleries that highlight different aspects of bourbon-making. The guides seem knowledgeable and personable, making the day both fun and educational. Plus, the included transportation and lunch mean you don’t have to stress about logistics, which can be a real plus when you’re trying to relax and enjoy bourbon country.

A possible downside is the price point—$275 per person can feel steep if you’re on a tight budget, especially since it’s a full-day tour with multiple tastings. Also, if you’re hoping to see a rickhouse or experience the more behind-the-scenes parts of some distilleries, this tour might not cover that completely. It’s most suited for those who want a well-organized, inside look at some of Kentucky’s top distilleries without the DIY hassle and who are comfortable spending a bit more for a guided experience.

This tour would appeal best to those who appreciate a mix of history, craftsmanship, and tasting—particularly bourbon lovers or travelers eager to deepen their understanding of Kentucky’s spirit industry. It’s also great if you prefer a set itinerary rather than trying to piece everything together on your own.

Key Points

• Expert Guides Make a Difference: The tour is led by knowledgeable guides who enhance your understanding and enjoyment.
• Comprehensive Experience: Includes visits to three distinguished distilleries, offering a varied perspective on bourbon production.
• All-Inclusive Convenience: Transportation, lunch, and tasting fees are included, simplifying the day.
• Limited Behind-the-Scenes Access: No rickhouse visit, so if that’s your priority, this might not be the best fit.
• Good for Weather Flexibility: Since the whole tour is inside, it’s a solid choice even if weather isn’t cooperating.
• Pricing Reflects Quality: At $275, you’re paying for a curated, guided experience with plenty of tasting opportunities.

Exploring the Itinerary

Angel’s Envy Distillery

Starting at Angel’s Envy, you’ll get to explore their unique bourbon-making process. This is typically the highlight for many, as Angel’s Envy is known for its innovative approach and high-quality spirits. The tour lasts about 1 hour 30 minutes, giving enough time for a guided tasting of their spirits, which include some of the best in the business.

Participants often appreciate the approachable way guides explain complex production methods, and reviews praise the tasting experience. One reviewer noted that their guide was especially knowledgeable and engaging, making the visit memorable. Expect to learn what makes Angel’s Envy distinctive and perhaps pick up a bottle or two from their store.

Stitzel-Weller

Next up is Stitzel-Weller, a legend in bourbon history. Here, you’ll enjoy a tasting at this storied distillery, which has deep roots in the bourbon world. The tour at Stitzel-Weller lasts around an hour and is rich in history, giving you context about their contribution to the craft.

Reviewers mention seeing the distillery’s heritage and appreciating the behind-the-scenes glimpse. While the tour doesn’t include a rickhouse visit, the historic atmosphere and the opportunity to taste their spirits make it worth your time. Many reviewers comment on how well they enjoyed the experience, with one noting it’s good for when the weather isn’t ideal, since the entire experience is indoors.

Kentucky Artisan Distillery

The final stop is Kentucky Artisan, an innovative distillery known for blending tradition with creativity. The tour here lasts about 1 hour 30 minutes, with tasting included. It’s a chance to see a more modern approach to bourbon-making and to sample some of their unique spirits.

Participants often mention the lively atmosphere and interesting flavors offered. This part of the tour caps off a day of diverse experiences, giving a broader view of Kentucky’s craft spirit scene. Guests have enjoyed the friendly guides and the chance to gather some bottles as souvenirs.

What’s Included and Why It Matters

This tour’s price of $275 covers quite a bit. It includes all distillery admission fees, so no surprises there. The transportation is in a comfortable, air-conditioned bus—important for those who want to relax rather than navigate Kentucky’s roads. The guide is an expert, adding flavor and context to each stop, and you get a local lunch with a fixed menu, which is a nice touch in keeping you fueled.

Plus, complimentary bottled water and ice keep you hydrated throughout the day. All of these features add up to a well-organized experience that emphasizes comfort and learning.

Group Size and Booking

The tour is capped at 22 travelers, which strikes a good balance—small enough to feel personal, but large enough to be lively. Most travelers book about 43 days in advance, reflecting its popularity. Meeting at 210 W Liberty St in Louisville at 9:15 a.m., you can expect a full day of bourbon-focused fun, with the tour wrapping up back at the start point.

Real Traveler Perspectives

One reviewer gushed about their guide, calling him “Dan the man,” and said the knowledge and recommendations were “unbelievable.” Another appreciated the inside look at the distilling process and the store’s good selection, especially for bad weather days. Others highlighted the guides’ friendliness and expertise, making the long drives between stops educational and enjoyable.

However, not all feedback was glowing. One group mentioned being underwhelmed by the restaurant choices included in the tour, which shows that dining options might not always meet everyone’s expectations. Still, the core distillery experience generally receives positive comments.

Is This Tour Worth It?

For bourbon enthusiasts or curious travelers wanting a structured, informative day, this tour offers a lot of value. The combination of three distinct distilleries gives a rounded look at the bourbon-making process—from Angel’s Envy’s elegance to Stitzel-Weller’s history, and Kentucky Artisan’s innovation.

The price might seem high, but considering everything—transportation, guided tastings, lunch, and entry fees—it’s fair for a premium experience. If you’re someone who appreciates a guided tour with knowledgeable hosts and the convenience of everything included, this could be a great choice.

On the flip side, if you’re on a tight budget or prefer a more in-depth behind-the-scenes tour (like visiting rickhouses), you might want to explore other options. But for a comfortable, educational, and taste-filled day, you’ll likely come away feeling satisfied.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience suits those who want a managed, enjoyable way to explore Kentucky’s bourbon scene without the stress of organizing transportation and logistics. It’s ideal for curious travelers, bourbon lovers, or groups wanting a guided, social experience. If you’re looking to deepen your understanding of bourbon and taste some of Kentucky’s finest spirits, this tour aligns well with those goals.

It’s also a good fit if weather is a concern—since all activities are indoors—and if you prefer a straightforward itinerary with a friendly guide leading the way. But if you’re after an exclusive behind-the-scenes journey or have specific dietary constraints, you might want to look for a more tailored experience.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, the tour provides guided transportation in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle, making it easy to relax and focus on the experience.

How long is the entire tour?
The tour lasts approximately 9 hours, including visits to three distilleries, lunch, and travel between stops.

What is the tour price?
It costs $275 per person, which includes all distillery admission fees, lunch, transportation, and a guided experience.

Are the distillery tours indoor or outdoor?
All visits are indoors, which is convenient if the weather isn’t great.

Can I visit rickhouses during this tour?
No, the tour does not include visits to rickhouses, so if that’s a priority, you might want to consider other options.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to 22 travelers, offering a more personal experience.

When should I book?
Most travelers book about 43 days in advance, indicating it’s quite popular.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, a hat or sunglasses if sunny, and maybe a small bag for souvenirs.

Is this tour suitable for children?
The provided info doesn’t specify, but since it’s a full-day tasting and educational experience, it’s best suited for adults.

Final Thoughts

All in all, the Angel’s Envy, Stitzel-Weller, and Kentucky Artisan Bourbon Tour offers a well-rounded, hassle-free way to explore some of Kentucky’s top bourbon spots. With knowledgeable guides, convenient logistics, and a good mix of history, craftsmanship, and tasting, it’s a solid pick for those wanting a curated bourbon experience. While the price isn’t cheap, many feel it’s justified by the quality and comfort of the day. If you’re after a comprehensive, inside look at bourbon-making with friendly hosts, this tour is definitely worth considering.