Lux Row Distillers
History of Lux Row Distillers
Foundation and Strategic Location of Lux Row Distillers
Lux Row Distillers officially began its operations in the spring of 2018. The distillery is located in Bardstown, Kentucky, a region renowned as the “Bourbon Capital of the World.” This location situates Lux Row Distillers in the heart of America’s whiskey-making heritage, contributing to its identity and spirit.
Background of Parent Company Luxco
The distillery is a significant part of Luxco, a company with deep roots in the spirits industry dating back to 1958, originally founded as the David Sherman Corporation. The decision to build Lux Row Distillers in Bardstown was a strategic step by Luxco to cement its role in the whiskey industry further.
State-of-the-Art Facilities and Design
Lux Row Distillers features advanced facilities, including six-barrel warehouses, a visitor center, and a tasting room. The design blends modernity with tradition, reflecting the distillery’s commitment to quality and heritage. The use of high-quality ingredients like Kentucky corn and American white oak barrels for aging underscores this approach.
Diverse Product Range of Lux Row Distillers
Notable Whiskey Brands and Their Heritage
- Rebel Bourbon: Smooth wheated bourbon with roots in a recipe dating back to 1849 from the Stitzel-Weller distillery.
- Ezra Brooks: A brand with history since 1957, offering expressions like the robust Ezra 99.
- David Nicholson: Featuring old recipes from 1843, including the renowned David Nicholson 1843 and Reserve.
- Daviess County: A line with origins in the 1870s, known for its distinct finishes like Cabernet Sauvignon and French Oak.
- Blood Oath: Introduced in 2015, this series is celebrated for its annual limited releases, each a unique blend.
Innovation and Growth in Whiskey Production
Lux Row Distillers has been dedicated to innovation while honoring traditional bourbon-making processes. This balance has been key in their ability to produce a range of award-winning whiskies, reflecting both respect for tradition and a modern approach to distillation.
Commitment to Community and Sustainability
The distillery is also recognized for its community involvement and sustainability efforts. These initiatives represent a contemporary approach to distilling, one that values both tradition and environmental stewardship.
In conclusion, Lux Row Distillers, established in 2018, has quickly made a name for itself in the bourbon and whiskey market, blending historical reverence with modern innovation to create a diverse and acclaimed range of spirits.
Awards Won by Lux Row Distillers
Lux Row Distillers, based in Bardstown, Kentucky, has received several awards for their whiskies. Here’s a summary of some notable awards:
Old Ezra 7-Year Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey: This whisky received a Gold Medal and scored 93 points at the Bartender Spirits Awards 2023. It’s known for its delicious notes of brown sugar, oak, sweet caramel, and apple, culminating in a bold finish.
Ezra Brooks 99 Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey: Also awarded a Gold Medal at the Bartender Spirits Awards 2023, this whisky scored 92 points. It features tropical spices and dark fruits on the nose, with a hint of ginger in its finish.
Daviess County Cabernet Sauvignon Cask Finish: Another Gold Medal winner at the same event, scoring 91 points. It presents a balanced combination of cinnamon and baking spices on the nose, with vanilla and cherry on the palate.
Daviess County French Oak Cask Finish: This whisky also earned a Gold Medal and 91 points. It’s characterized by its fruit presence, honey/vanilla notes, and strong corn flavors.
Daviess County Lightly Toasted Oak Cask Finish: Awarded a Gold Medal and 90 points, this whisky offers a diverse palate with notes of stone fruit and baking spices, making it suitable for mixing.
Daviess County Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey: Received a Silver Medal with 88 points. It’s known for its round, dry nature, nutty richness, and creme brulee flavor.
Old Ezra 7 Year Straight Rye Whiskey: Also a Silver Medal recipient, scoring 88 points. This whisky balances an astringent nose with flavors of pepper and honeysuckle on the palate.
Lux Row Distillers Tour Information and Experience
Lux Row Distillers offers a unique tour experience that allows visitors to explore the world of whiskey making in the heart of bourbon country, Bardstown, Kentucky. Here’s a summary of what you can expect from a tour at Lux Row Distillers:
Tour Overview
The tour at Lux Row Distillers provides an in-depth look into the distilling process. You’ll get to see the state-of-the-art facilities, including the copper still made by Vendome, and learn about whiskey production. The tour typically covers various stages of whiskey production, from fermentation to distillation and aging.
Tasting Room Experience
At the end of the tour, visitors usually can sample some of Lux Row Distillers’ award-winning products in the tasting room. This is a chance to appreciate the nuances of different whiskey varieties and learn about the distinct flavors and aromas.
Visitor Center
The visitor center is a hub where guests can learn more about the distillery’s history and its range of products. It’s also an excellent place for whiskey enthusiasts to ask questions and gain more insight into the whiskey-making process.
Distillery Grounds
The distillery is set in a picturesque location, offering visitors a chance to enjoy the beautiful Kentucky landscape. The grounds also feature unique aspects, such as the presence of peacocks, which are a part of the distillery’s charm.
- Booking Information: To visit Lux Row Distillers, it’s recommended to book a tour in advance. This can typically be done through their official website or directly contacting the distillery. Booking in advance ensures you have a reserved spot on the tour.
- Accessibility and Amenities: The distillery is generally equipped to accommodate visitors with varying needs. It’s advisable to check in advance regarding accessibility options and any other specific requirements you might have.
Flask & Barrel Review of Lux Row Distillers
As a seasoned whiskey collector who’s toured many distilleries, I recently had the pleasure of visiting Lux Row Distillers in Bardstown, Kentucky. Here’s my take on the experience:
First off, let’s talk about the setting. Nestled in the heart of bourbon country, Lux Row’s location is as picturesque as it gets. The moment you step onto the property, you’re greeted with a vibe both welcoming and steeped in tradition. For me, a distillery’s atmosphere is half the experience, and Lux Row nails this aspect.
The tour itself was top-notch. I’ve been on several distillery tours, and I must say that Lux Row offers one of the more engaging and informative ones. The guide was knowledgeable and had a way of making the complex whiskey-making process understandable and exciting, even for a veteran like me.
Seeing their copper still and the barrel warehouses was a highlight. It’s one thing to enjoy whiskey but another to see where and how it’s crafted. Now, the tasting session — this was the cherry on top. As someone who prides himself on a diverse whiskey collection, I was impressed by the range of flavors Lux Row had to offer.
One aspect that sets Lux Row apart is their commitment to blending tradition with modernity. You can see this in how they respect age-old bourbon-making processes while embracing innovation. It’s a delicate balance that they’ve managed to strike quite well.
In conclusion, Lux Row Distillers earns a solid 4.7/5 from me. Whether you’re a seasoned whiskey aficionado or new to the bourbon trail, this place is worth a visit. The combination of excellent whiskey, a beautiful setting, and a knowledgeable tour makes for a memorable experience. Lux Row isn’t just a distillery; it’s a testament to the art of whiskey-making.
What To Do Nearby Lux Row Distillers
After your visit to Lux Row Distillers in Bardstown, Kentucky, there are plenty of other exciting activities and attractions nearby to enhance your experience. Here’s a concise guide to some must-visit spots:
Basilica of St. Joseph Proto-Cathedral: Explore this beautiful Greek Revival-style building, the first Roman Catholic cathedral west of the Allegheny Mountains, known for its stunning European art collection.
Willett Distilling Company: Just a short distance from Lux Row, this family-owned distillery offers hour-long tours that dive into the Willett family history and the whiskey-making process, complete with tastings.
Civil War Museum: A cluster of historical attractions including the Civil War Museum, the Women’s Museum of the Civil War, and the General Hal Moore Military Museum, perfect for history enthusiasts.
Oscar Getz Museum of Whiskey History: Located in the historic Spalding Hall, this museum offers a comprehensive look at the history of whiskey in America, from Colonial times to the present.
Wickland, Home of Three Governors: Visit one of Kentucky’s finest Georgian residences, with tours available from March through October.
Heaven Hill Bourbon Experience: Learn about one of America’s largest independent, family-owned distilled spirits companies and enjoy their extensive choice of tasting experiences.
The Stephen Foster Story: If visiting during the summer, don’t miss this musical at the J. Dan Talbott Amphitheatre, showcasing Foster’s life and compositions.
Old Talbott Tavern: A historic tavern offering food, drink, and entertainment, and famed as the oldest bourbon bar in the world.
Kentucky Bourbon Festival: Held typically in September, this festival is a celebration of bourbon and whiskey, featuring tastings, concerts, and more.
My Old Kentucky Dinner Train: Enjoy a unique dining experience aboard a train, offering various dishes perfect for a romantic outing or a family adventure.
Frequently Asked Questions
What restaurants are near Lux Row Distillers?
Mammy’s Kitchen & Bar: It has a rating of 4.5 stars on Google Maps. For reservations, you can contact them at +15023501097. Their address is 116 W Stephen Foster Ave, Bardstown, KY 40004, United States.
Bourbon Brick Oven & Grill (Under New Management): This restaurant has a rating of 4.1 stars on Google Maps. You can contact them at +15023484848 for reservations. The address is 966 Chambers Blvd, Bardstown, KY.
Cinco De Mayo Mexican Bar And Grill: It has a rating of 4.5 stars on Google Maps. For reservations, their contact number is +15023501145. The restaurant is located at 225 Parkway Dr, Bardstown, KY.
What hotels are near Lux Row Distillers?
Hampton Inn Bardstown: It has a rating of 4.1 stars on Google Maps. For reservations, you can contact them on their phone at +15023490100. Their address is in Bardstown, KY.
SureStay By Best Western Bardstown General Nelson: This hotel has a rating of 4.2 stars on Google Maps. You can contact them at +15023483977 for reservations. The address is 411 W Stephen Foster Ave, Bardstown, KY 40004, United States.
Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Bardstown: It has a rating of 4.5 stars on Google Maps. For reservations, their contact number is +15023506720. The hotel is located in Bardstown, KY.