The Bourbon tours: Buffalo Trace , Whiskey Thief & Jeptha Creed

A Closer Look at the Bourbon Bites Tour in Louisville

If you’re dreaming of experiencing Kentucky’s bourbon scene without the hassle of planning every stop, the Bourbon Bites Tour might just be what you’re after. This private, flexible tour lets you choose three distilleries based on your interests, with expert guides and transportation included, making for a seamless day of tasting and learning.

What we really like about this experience is its personalized approach—you’re not locked into a rigid schedule, and the private guides can adapt on the fly, which adds a touch of authenticity and comfort. Plus, the tour includes visits to well-known spots like Buffalo Trace, alongside smaller, more intimate producers like Jeptha Creed.

On the flip side, a potential consideration is the price—at $249.99 per person, it’s not the cheapest way to explore bourbon, but the value comes from the private transportation, guided experience, and the chance to customize your itinerary. This tour is perfect for those who love bourbon, enjoy a good story, and want a more tailored experience without sacrificing comfort.

If you’re someone who appreciates quality over quantity, or if you’re traveling with a group that wants to make the day unique, this tour could be a great fit. Families with older kids interested in bourbon might also enjoy this, as it’s an educational experience more than a party scene.

Key Points

• Flexible, customizable itinerary allows you to select your preferred distilleries.
• Private transportation and guides add comfort and a personalized touch.
• Visits to Buffalo Trace, Whiskey Thief, and Jeptha Creed offer a blend of historic, casual, and farm-based bourbon experiences.
• Tasting included at each stop gives you a chance to sample award-winning products and barrel straight spirits.
• Duration of 5 to 7 hours makes it a full but manageable day out.
• Includes pickup and private activity—no need to worry about logistics.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Buffalo Trace Distillery

The first stop is Buffalo Trace, one of the most recognized names in bourbon. The Trace Tour here is described as an excellent intro, especially for those new to bourbon or wanting to understand its roots. You’ll walk among the barrels, smell the aging warehouses, and listen to guides who bring the history and science of bourbon to life.

What makes Buffalo Trace a worthwhile visit is how accessible it is—they welcome all ages and are ADA compliant, making it a family-friendly option if your group includes kids or folks with mobility needs. Plus, the tour is free, and tasting some of their award-winning spirits is included.

Expect to spend around 1 hour and 30 minutes here. While the experience is broad enough to give you a solid overview, it’s not overly long, which helps keep the day moving smoothly.

Whiskey Thief Distilling Co.

Next up is Whiskey Thief, a spot that adds a social, laid-back vibe. The focus here is on the social aspect of bourbon—adding food, cocktails, and time to relax on the patio or lawn. This is perfect if you love to pair tastings with good conversation and Kentucky hospitality.

Here, you’ll enjoy tasting spirits straight from the barrel—an authentic experience that’s hard to find elsewhere. The visit lasts about 2 hours, giving you enough time to soak in the atmosphere, sample some drinks, and enjoy the landscape.

The fact that it’s described as “the most authentic bourbon tasting experience” makes it particularly appealing for those who want a genuine, less commercial feel.

Jeptha Creed

The last stop takes you onto 64 acres of farmland at Jeptha Creed, where they grow their own Bloody Butcher corn—used for their vodka, moonshine, brandy, and bourbon. Visiting Jeptha Creed offers a look at how bourbon and spirits are connected to local agriculture.

This farm-based distillery offers a different perspective—seeing where the ingredients are cultivated and understanding the farm-to-bottle process. It’s a shorter stop, about an hour long, but packed with insight into the local side of bourbon production.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour covers private transportation and professional guides who speak English, Spanish, and German. This makes the experience accessible for international travelers or those who want a more comfortable day out.

Not included is lunch, so you might want to plan for a meal beforehand or bring snacks along. Given the tasting-heavy itinerary, this is a fairly full day—perfect for bourbon lovers but possibly overwhelming for casual visitors.

What Travelers Say

One reviewer praised the flexible approach, sharing that their guide created an alternate plan during floods, which allowed them to visit extra distilleries and truly make the most of their day. The “10/10 would book again” comment highlights how personalized service can elevate the experience.

Others have appreciated how friendly and knowledgeable guides make the tour memorable, adding to the sense of Kentucky hospitality.

Analyzing the Experience Value

At nearly $250 per person, this tour isn’t a budget choice, but it does include several key value points: private transportation, expert guides, multiple distillery visits, and tastings. For bourbon enthusiasts or those wanting a high-quality, tailored experience, this price can be justified.

Compared to self-guided visits or group tours that might lack personalization, this private setup ensures you get the most out of each stop, with plenty of time to ask questions and enjoy the surroundings.

The tour’s duration of 5 to 7 hours strikes a good balance—it’s enough time to see and taste without feeling rushed or exhausted. Plus, with the option to cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance, you can plan with some peace of mind.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is especially suited for bourbon lovers looking for a curated, educational day. If you’re traveling with a group that appreciates comfort, personalized service, and the ability to choose their preferred distilleries, this is a strong pick.

History buffs, foodies, and those interested in farm-to-bottle processes will also find Jeptha Creed a highlight. It’s not necessarily a party scene, so it caters more to those who genuinely want to learn about bourbon’s roots.

Families with older teenagers interested in spirits and Kentucky culture could also find value here, provided they’re aware of the tasting aspect.

Final Thoughts

The Bourbon Bites Tour offers a thoughtfully curated taste of Louisville’s bourbon world, with enough flexibility to cater to individual interests. The private guides, transportation, and multiple stops make it a convenient choice for visitors who want to maximize their experience without the hassle.

While it’s on the pricier side, the inclusion of exclusive visits, tasting opportunities, and a private, comfortable setting justifies the cost for many. It’s ideal for bourbon fans who want more than just a quick peek—an immersive, educational day with plenty of memorable moments.

If you’re seeking a relaxed, personalized way to explore Kentucky’s bourbon scene, this tour deserves serious consideration. Just be sure to factor in your interest in bourbon, your budget, and your comfort with a full day of tastings.

FAQ – Your Practical Questions Answered

Can I customize the distilleries I visit?
Yes, you can choose the three distilleries you want to visit, making it a personalized experience tailored to your preferences.

Is transportation included?
Absolutely, private transportation is included along with professional guides, so you don’t need to worry about driving or directions.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 5 to 7 hours, enough time to enjoy all three stops comfortably without feeling rushed.

Are the tours suitable for all ages?
The Buffalo Trace tour is open to all ages and is ADA accessible. The overall tour is geared more toward adults interested in bourbon, but all ages are welcomed at Buffalo Trace.

Is the tour family-friendly?
While not specifically marketed as a family tour, families with older children who are interested in spirits might enjoy the experience.

What’s included in the price?
The fee covers private transportation, guides speaking multiple languages, and tastings at each distillery. Lunch is not included, so plan accordingly.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the start, offering flexibility if your plans shift.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Buffalo Trace is ADA accessible; for other stops, it’s best to check with the provider if necessary.

What kind of spirits will I taste?
You’ll sample award-winning products, spirits straight from the barrel at Whiskey Thief, and spirits crafted from farm-grown ingredients at Jeptha Creed.

Is this tour suitable for non-English speakers?
Yes, guides speak English, Spanish, and German, making it accessible for international visitors.

Whether you’re a bourbon connoisseur or just curious to learn more about Kentucky’s signature spirit, this tour offers a well-rounded, personalized experience that balances history, flavor, and scenery.