The Best Whiskey Trail Tours for Small Groups & Private Tastings: Discover Kentucky, Tennessee, and Ireland with Mint Julep  Experiences

Three Iconic Regions, One Legendary Experience

For whiskey aficionados and curious newcomers alike, few adventures are as rewarding as tracing the roots of the world’s finest spirits to their source. Whether you prefer the velvety richness of a small-batch Kentucky bourbon, the mellow character of Tennessee whiskey, or the soft, fruity complexity of triple-distilled Irish whiskey, each glass holds a narrative of heritage, place, and craftsmanship. At Mint Julep Experiences, we don’t just take you to the distilleries—we bring you into the heart of the whiskey-making world, where legends are born, barrels breathe, and traditions come alive.

With nearly two decades of excellence in crafting curated spirits tours, Mint Julep Experiences proudly offers the best whiskey trail adventures in Kentucky, Tennessee, and Ireland. Through our two dedicated brands—Mint Julep Tours and Ireland Whiskey Tours—we specialize in creating intimate, expertly guided experiences that allow small groups and private parties to explore the depth, diversity, and delight of whiskey culture across three of the world’s most iconic whiskey-producing regions.

What sets Mint Julep apart is our unwavering commitment to storytelling, authenticity, and hospitality. We believe a great whiskey tour is more than just tastings and photo ops—it’s about connecting with the people, landscapes, and legacies that make these spirits so extraordinary. You’ll walk the same rickhouse floors as master distillers, taste straight from the barrel, enjoy behind-the-scenes access to heritage distilleries, and hear the stories that have shaped generations of whiskey makers.

Whether you're sipping in the limestone-rich hills of Kentucky, dancing to the rhythm of Nashville while toasting with Tennessee whiskey, or gazing across the windswept Irish coast with a glass of pot still in hand, our tours are designed to enrich your understanding and appreciation of whiskey while creating unforgettable memories. Every stop, every sip, every scenic drive is steeped in local flavor and culture, with expert guides who are as passionate about whiskey as you are.

From multi-day immersive itineraries to customizable day trips, Mint Julep Experiences tailors every tour to meet your group’s pace, taste, and curiosity. Whether you’re planning a bachelor party, a corporate retreat, a romantic getaway, or your dream whiskey pilgrimage, we ensure every detail—from transportation and dining to tastings and accommodations—is handled with precision and flair.

KENTUCKY: THE BOURBON CAPITAL OF THE WORLD

There’s a reason Kentucky is hailed as the Bourbon Capital of the World—and it’s not just a marketing tagline. With more aging barrels of bourbon than people, centuries-old distilling traditions, and a terroir unlike anywhere else, Kentucky is the birthplace of America’s native spirit. If bourbon is your love language, a guided journey through this bluegrass paradise is a rite of passage—and with Mint Julep Tours, bourbon trail tours become an unforgettable adventure.

From the moment you breathe in the warm vanilla-sweet air of a rickhouse, you’ll know you’re somewhere special. It’s where history seeps through barrel staves, and where family legacies are etched into every bottle label. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or returning for another round, Mint Julep’s Kentucky bourbon tours reveal the soul of bourbon in ways that only insiders can.

Why Bourbon Tastes Better in Kentucky

Kentucky isn’t just good at making bourbon—it was designed for it. The state’s limestone-rich water filters out iron, which can ruin fermentation, and adds calcium and magnesium to the mash—both great for yeast health. The dramatic seasonal swings in temperature expand and contract oak barrels, pushing the spirit in and out of the wood to develop complex flavor. Add in local grains and centuries of expertise, and you’ve got a recipe that can’t be replicated elsewhere.

It’s no surprise that the majority of the world’s bourbon is born here. And when you explore it with Mint Julep, you go far beyond the gift shop. For a deeper dive into what makes Kentucky bourbon so iconic, check out our guide: Bourbon 101: Intro to Kentucky Bourbon and Distilleries.

Signature Tour: Barrels, Bourbon & Bluegrass

 3 Days | 9+ Distilleries | Boutique Hotels | Bourbon Stewards

This is the ultimate Kentucky bourbon trail experience. Over three immersive days, you’ll travel from Louisville to Bardstown and beyond, visiting an expertly curated selection of both big-name brands and boutique distilleries. You’ll be chauffeured in style via luxury sprinter van or motorcoach, with every detail—lodging, tastings, meals, and exclusive access—handled for you.

✔️ Learn More & Book: Barrels, Bourbon & Bluegrass Tour

Distilleries That Define this Kentucky Bourbon Trail tour

Each stop on the itinerary offers a new perspective on what makes bourbon magical. Some focus on heritage; others push innovation. All leave a lasting impression.

🥃 Buffalo Trace – The oldest continually operating distillery in the U.S., famous for rare bottles and ghost stories.

🥃 Woodford Reserve – A National Historic Landmark with charming stone buildings and a triple pot still.

🥃Maker’s Mark – Art meets whiskey here, where every bottle is hand-dipped in wax and the grounds are a visual feast.

🥃Angel’s Envy – A Louisville favorite, known for its port wine barrel cask finishing and urban-chic vibe.

🥃Old Forester – First bottled bourbon and a highlight on Louisville’s revitalized Whiskey Row.

🥃Four Roses – Floral, fruity, and unique for using 10 different recipes.

🥃Wild Turkey – Bold and spicy, with iconic master distillers Jimmy and Eddie Russell.

🥃Heaven Hill – A family-run titan producing Larceny, Elijah Craig, and more.

🥃 Bulleit  – A new-age distillery with old-school heart and a high-rye kick.

Want to make the most of your time on the trail? Before you sip your first pour, check out our full Kentucky Bourbon Trail® Guide: Know Before You Hit The Bourbon Trail for insider tips, distillery highlights, and planning essentials.

Beyond the Barrel: Experiences That Set Mint Julep Apart

What truly sets Mint Julep’s Kentucky bourbon tours apart is the immersive, behind-the-scenes access:

🥃 Tour a cooperage, like Independent Stave Company, to see how white oak barrels are charred, shaped, and sealed.

🥃 Step inside aging warehouses, where angels take their share and barrels breathe Kentucky’s four seasons.

🥃 Savor gourmet bourbon pairings—from dark chocolate tastings to BBQ and bourbon feasts, curated to bring out each whiskey’s profile.

🥃 Craft your own cocktail in mixology classes with expert bartenders.

🥃 Meet the makers—distillers, blenders, and bourbon stewards who live and breathe whiskey.

A Sample Day on Tour

A typical day on your bourbon adventure might look like this:

🕘 Morning: Depart from your boutique hotel in Louisville. First stop: Woodford Reserve for a master distiller-led tasting and distillery walkthrough. Learn about pot stills, fermentation science, and their signature flavor wheel.

🕘 Midday: Enjoy a scenic lunch at a farm-to-table restaurant in horse country, paired with locally crafted cocktails.

🕘 Afternoon: Head to Maker’s Mark for a hands-on bottle-dipping session, a private tour through the art gallery and rickhouses, and a taste straight from the barrel.

🕘 Evening: Return to Louisville for dinner at Repeal Oak-Fired Steakhouse or Doc Crow’s with an expertly paired whiskey flight. End the night with a nightcap at Hell or High Water, a speakeasy tucked beneath Whiskey Row.

From sunrise sips to speakeasy nightcaps, every moment is crafted for bourbon lovers. Whether you're planning a once-in-a-lifetime trip or a custom outing for your group, our Signature Bourbon Tours and fully customizable experiences are the perfect way to explore Kentucky’s bourbon trail in style. Of course, chauffeured luxury transportation is included so you can focus on your tour. Start planning your bourbon tour today.

TENNESSEE: A WHISKEY LOVER’S SOUTHERN SANCTUARY

When you cross into Tennessee, you're not just entering another state—you're stepping into a world where tradition meets rhythm, where heritage flows as freely as the spirits, and where every barrel has a backstory. Known for its warm hospitality, vibrant music scene, and time-honored whiskey-making, Tennessee is a must-visit for anyone chasing authentic flavor, local character, and immersive experiences.

And when it comes to unlocking the full whiskey-soaked, music-fueled experience, Mint Julep Experiences is your guide to unforgettable adventure.

WHISKEY THAT SINGS: WHAT MAKES TENNESSEE WHISKEY SPECIAL?

Tennessee whiskey is a category all its own—federally recognized and protected by tradition. The use of charcoal mellowing (the Lincoln County Process) before aging makes Tennessee whiskey smoother and more refined than its Kentucky counterparts. It’s more than just technique—it’s a sense of pride. Distillers here blend science, craft, and Southern soul into every batch.

This is whiskey for sipping slowly, enjoying deeply, and appreciating with all the senses.

THE TENNESSEE WHISKEY TRAIL: A STORY IN EVERY SIP

With over 30 distilleries forming the Tennessee Whiskey Trail, there’s no shortage of discovery. Mint Julep’s curated itineraries make it easy to explore both iconic brands and boutique hidden gems without the need to worry about driving, planning, or missing a single tasting.

Here’s a deeper dive into what your Tennessee whiskey tour could include:

⭐ ICONIC DESTINATIONS & HISTORIC DISTILLERIES

🕘 Jack Daniel’s Distillery – Lynchburg, TN

America’s most famous whiskey deserves a proper introduction. Tour the historic site where Jack himself began distilling in the 1800s. You’ll see the limestone cave spring, learn about charcoal mellowing, and sip exclusive bottles only available on-site. VIP options include single-barrel tastings, bottling your own, and hearing the untold story of Nearest Green, the man behind the legend.

🕘 Uncle Nearest Premium Whiskey – Shelbyville, TN

Celebrate the legacy of Nathan “Nearest” Green, the first known African American master distiller and mentor to Jack Daniel. The state-of-the-art Nearest Green Distillery offers a one-of-a-kind tour experience with a whiskey chapel, heritage hall, tasting room, and cultural center. The brand has won hundreds of global awards in just a few short years.

🕘 Nelson’s Green Brier Distillery – Nashville, TN

A real-life resurrection story, Nelson’s was once one of the largest distilleries in the U.S. before Prohibition shut it down. Now revived by the founder’s descendants, the distillery delivers a blend of history and modern innovation. Enjoy a full tasting, see the working production floor, and sip in the on-site cocktail bar.

🕘 Pennington Distilling Co. – Nashville, TN

This locally loved operation is known for Davidson Reserve (a true Tennessee whiskey) and Whisper Creek Tennessee Sipping Cream—a rich, smooth treat ideal for dessert pairings. Pennington offers small-group tours that are both educational and interactive, with cocktail classes and mash sampling.

From legendary names to rising stars, the Tennessee Whiskey Trail offers a rich blend of flavor, history, and Southern soul. Ready to map out your perfect route? Don’t miss our Complete Guide to Tennessee Whiskey Tours: Must-Visit Distilleries & Tastings for insider tips, top stops, and everything you need to sip your way through the Volunteer State.

🕘 MORE THAN WHISKEY: MUSIC, MEMORIES & SOUTHERN SOUL

Tennessee is the birthplace of American music. The rhythm of the land—from the cotton fields to the honky tonks—still echoes through every note, every bite, and every barrel. With Mint Julep, your journey pairs whiskey with culture, storytelling, and soul.

🕘 The Ryman Auditorium Tour

Step into the “Mother Church of Country Music” and feel the goosebumps as you stand where Johnny Cash, Patsy Cline, and Elvis Presley once performed. This isn’t just a venue—it’s a sacred space for music lovers.

🕘 Private Recording Studio Experience

Channel your inner Nashville star. Mint Julep offers exclusive access to recording studios where you and your group can record your own song or jingle. Whether it’s serious or silly, it’s a memory that lasts forever.

🕘 Broadway Bar Crawl (Optional Add-On)

Explore Nashville’s famous honky tonks, rooftop whiskey bars, and hidden speakeasies. Enjoy curated cocktails, live music, and VIP entry at some of the city’s most legendary nightspots.

 WHISKEY & FOOD: A FLAVOR-FORWARD ADVENTURE

Tennessee’s culinary scene is rooted in tradition but full of surprises. Pair your pours with some of the South’s most crave-worthy cuisine:

🥃 BBQ Brisket & Bourbon Glaze – Taste pit-smoked perfection in Nashville’s barbecue joints like Martin’s Bar-B-Que.

🥃 Southern Brunch & Craft Cocktails – Sip bourbon milk punch with chicken & waffles at The Southern Steak & Oyster.

🥃 Sipping Cream & Dessert Pairings – Try rich sipping cream with chocolate mousse or pecan pie.

🥃 Farm-to-Table Pairings – Nashville’s modern food scene shines with menus built around seasonal, local ingredients and whiskey-forward pairings.

🕘 SCENIC DRIVES & PHOTO SPOTS

Tennessee’s rolling hills and misty valleys make every drive feel cinematic. With Mint Julep’s luxury transportation, you can sit back, relax, and take in the views.

• Lynchburg Backroads: Red barns, grazing horses, and sun-dappled fields
• Cumberland River Crossings: Stunning bridges and riverside views
• Shelbyville to Franklin Scenic Byway: Antique towns and historical markers

Bonus: Your guides are photographers, too—ready to help capture your best whiskey travel moments.

WHERE TO STAY: BOUTIQUE HOTELS & SOUTHERN STAYS

While accommodations aren’t always included in standard Tennessee Whiskey Tours, multi-day bourbon tour packages can be paired with curated hotel stays. Choose from:

•  21c Museum Hotel – Nashville – Art meets luxury in this eclectic downtown hotel
•  Thompson Nashville – Chic, modern, and centrally located near The Gulch
•  Lynchburg Bed & Breakfasts – Quaint, quiet, and walking distance to Jack Daniel’s

Want to go all out? Mint Julep can help customize overnight stays with private transportation and group dinners.

 SAMPLE 3-DAY TENNESSEE WHISKEY ITINERARY

Day 1:

Morning: Depart Nashville → Tour Jack Daniel’s Distillery

Afternoon: BBQ lunch in Lynchburg → Optional Nearest Green visit

Evening: Return to Nashville → Honky Tonk happy hour crawl

Day 2:

Morning: Tour Pennington Distilling Co.

Afternoon: Mixology class + food pairing at Nelson’s Green Brier

Evening: Recording studio session + downtown dinner

Day 3:

Morning: Brunch at local hot spot

Afternoon: Custom stop at boutique distillery or cidery

Evening: Shopping, live music, or relaxation

🕘 THE PERFECT TOUR FOR...

Bachelor & Bachelorette parties

Corporate retreats & team building

Anniversary trips & birthdays

Whiskey enthusiasts of all levels

Music lovers & culture seekers

READY TO RAISE YOUR GLASS IN TENNESSEE?

With Mint Julep Experiences, your Tennessee whiskey tour is seamless, safe, and expertly curated. Enjoy access to exclusive tastings, rich cultural moments, and unforgettable Southern hospitality—all while riding in luxury transportation with a professional driver who knows the roads, the routes, and the stories behind every stop.

Start your journey here 🥃 mintjuleptours.com/nashville

IRELAND: WHERE WHISKEY MEETS MYTH, MUSIC & MISTY HILLS

Few places on Earth blend history, heart, and hospitality like Ireland. From the moment your feet hit the cobblestone streets of Dublin or your eyes scan the green pastures of Killarney, it’s clear this is no ordinary whiskey destination. It’s a spiritual home for storytellers and spirit loversalike—where the legacy of Irish whiskey runs deep and the warmth of its people is matched only by the smoothness of its triple-distilled drams.

Ireland Whiskey Tours by Mint Julep Experiences invites you to explore this enchanting island with curated small-group and private journeys across Ireland’s most celebrated and hidden-gem distilleries.

THE IRISH WHISKEY DIFFERENCE

Irish whiskey is among the smoothest in the world—thanks to triple distillation, a method perfected over centuries that gives the spirit its signature light body and elegant character. With styles ranging from pot still to single malt and blended whiskey, Ireland offers a spectrum of flavors unlike anywhere else.

And now, with a thriving whiskey renaissance in full swing, modern makers are reviving old traditions and innovating new ones, making this the perfect time to sip your way through Ireland.

🕘 THE IRISH WHISKEY 360° EXPERIENCE

Mint Julep’s Ireland Whiskey Tours connect you to both the icons and the upstarts through the IrishWhiskey360° trail—a nationwide celebration of the island’s diverse whiskey landscape. Whether you have a day or a week, there's a custom experience waiting to be poured.

🕘 CURATED DAY TOURS: DRAMS WITH A VIEW

Ireland’s compact geography means you can cover incredible ground in a single day—sipping whiskey in the morning, exploring ancient ruins by lunch, and sharing pints in cozy pubs by night. Each day trip offers more than tastings—it’s a feast for all five senses.

🕘 Wicklow Mountains & Powerscourt Distillery

Nestled in “The Garden of Ireland,” the Powerscourt Distillery sits on the historic Powerscourt Estate. Enjoy panoramic views of Sugar Loaf Mountain while sampling Fercullen whiskey in a restored 18th-century mill house. Take a walk in one of Ireland’s most photographed gardens after your tour.

⚓ Cork City & Midleton

Travel to the southern coast for a behind-the-scenes tour of  Midleton Distillery, home to legendary brands like Jameson, Redbreast, and Powers. Explore the vibrant city of Cork and its English Market—perfect for foodies.

☘️ Guinness & Jameson Tour – Dublin

For a double-dose of Irish heritage, explore Jameson Bow St. and the iconic   Guinness Storehouse    in one unforgettable day. Learn how Guinness is brewed, pour your own pint, then walk over to the birthplace of Jameson for tastings and stories.

🕘 Giant’s Causeway & Bushmills

One of Ireland’s most dramatic coastal drives leads to   Old Bushmills Distillery—the world’s oldest licensed whiskey maker, founded in 1608. The tour pairs perfectly with a visit to the UNESCO World Heritage site, Giant’s Causeway, where natural wonder meets ancient legend.

🕘 Slane Distillery & Boyne Valley

Sip whiskey inside a castle. Yes, really. The   Slane Distillery, set on the grounds of Slane Castle (home to legendary rock concerts), offers tastings infused with music history. Nearby, explore ancient sites like Newgrange and the Hill of Tara.

🕘Tullamore D.E.W. & Kilbeggan

Visit the   Tullamore D.E.W. Visitor Centre    for a hands-on blending session, then head to   Kilbeggan Distillery   —a charming spot that feels like stepping back in time, where whiskey is still made by traditional methods.

🕘 Belfast & McConnell’s Distillery

Discover the art, history, and whiskey revival of Northern Ireland. In McConnell’s Distillery, you’ll see how a 250-year-old brand is making a powerful comeback. Bonus: street art walking tours and historic pubs complete the Belfast experience.

More day trips here 🥃 Ireland Whiskey Tours Day Trips

🕘 MULTI-DAY WHISKEY ADVENTURES: DEEP DRAMS & HIDDEN GEMS

🕘 Irish Whiskey Odyssey Founders Tour

7 Nights | 4-Star Hotels | Luxury Coach | Private Tastings

This immersive week-long experience is ideal for those looking to sip, savor, and soak in the full cultural landscape of Ireland.

Itinerary Includes:

• Dublin: Visit Teeling, Guinness, and Jameson Bow St., plus food tours and traditional music
• Cork: Explore Midleton, culinary markets, and maritime heritage
• Killarney: Experience Ballykillcavan, Killarney Brewing & 
• Distilling, and jaunting car rides through the National Park
• Kildare: Farm-to-glass whiskey tastings and local storytelling

Special Touches: Irish coffee class, whiskey-paired dinners, and a private boat trip to a hidden island pub

🕘 Ireland Uncasked: Northern Whiskey & Cultural Tour

October 21–26, 2025 | 6 Days | Max 30 Guests

Join whiskey historian and specialist Gary Byrne on a unique journey through Northern Ireland’s rich past and exciting future.

Highlights Include:

• Slane Castle & Distillery tour + private concert moment
• Black Taxi Tour of Belfast – Explore the city’s story through its murals
• Giant’s Causeway & Bushmills
• Exclusive tastings with legends at McConnell’s and Cockagee Cider
• Coastal gems like Portrush and Derry

Learn more and book 🥃 Ireland Uncasked

🕘 MORE THAN WHISKEY: IRELAND’S CHARM ON EVERY ROAD

Beyond the glasses raised and toasts shared, Ireland offers unforgettable landscapes and connections:

• Pub sessions with live fiddle music
• Coastal cliff walks and ancient castles
• Hidden villages, sheep-filled meadows, and windswept beaches
• Hearty breakfasts, peat fires, and warm welcomes

Whether you’re a whiskey aficionado, a first-time visitor, or a cultural traveler at heart—this is your moment to discover the true spirit of Ireland.

✈️ PLANNING YOUR IRISH WHISKEY ADVENTURE

• Best time to go: Spring and fall offer mild weather, vibrant countryside, and fewer crowds.
• How long to stay: Day tours available from Dublin, but multi-day tours deliver deeper immersion.
• Private groups welcome: Bachelor parties, company retreats, anniversaries, and bucket-list birthdays.
• Fully customizable: Choose your distilleries, dining, cultural stops, and pace.

🕘 BOOK YOUR IRELAND WHISKEY EXPERIENCE

Don’t just drink Irish whiskey—live it. With expertly guided tours, boutique tastings, scenic routes, and immersive cultural moments, Ireland Whiskey Tours by Mint Julep brings Ireland to life in every way that matters.

🥃 www.irelandwhiskeytours.com

 🥃 info@irelandwhiskeytours.com

 🥃 Ireland: +353 87 708 5947

 🥃 USA Toll-Free: 1-844-204-7470

Sláinte to the journey.

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