A Bourbon Experience That Surprised Me (And Will Wow You Too)
By a Reluctant Sipper Turned Enthusiast
As someone who has always politely passed on bourbon at gatherings, I never expected to find myself raving about a bourbon tasting. But that was before I walked into the Augusta Distillery.
Tucked away in the charming river town of Augusta, Kentucky, this distillery isn’t just about pouring drinks—it’s about sharing a story. And believe me, it’s a story worth hearing.
From the moment we stepped inside, I could tell this was going to be something special. The space is warm and inviting, blending modern refinement with nods to Kentucky’s bourbon heritage. Our guide had a way of explaining the distilling process and rich history that was engaging even for someone like me, who wouldn’t know a wheated bourbon from a rye.
And then came the tasting.
I didn’t expect to like it. Honestly, I thought I’d take a polite sip, smile, and hand mine off to my husband. But the way they guided us through the different flavors—describing the aging process, pointing out notes of caramel, spice, oak—it transformed the experience. I found myself actually appreciating the complexity and craftsmanship behind each glass. My husband, who’s a lifelong bourbon lover, was equally impressed. He kept leaning over to whisper, “This is really good,” like he couldn’t believe it either.
We were so taken with the experience that we brought friends back with us the following weekend. Watching their faces light up as they discovered their own favorites was just as fun as going the first time.
Whether you’re a bourbon connoisseur or a total skeptic like I was, Augusta Distillery has a way of turning tasting into an unforgettable experience. It’s educational, approachable, and just plain fun. And it’s not just about the bourbon—it’s about the people, the town, the stories, and the way everything comes together to create something truly unique.
Trust me—this is something you have to come and experience for yourself.
You can book your own tasting and tour directly at Augusta Distillery and see what makes this experience so memorable.
We finished our perfect weekend trip with an overnight stay at The Benchmark Inn—just minutes away. After an afternoon of sipping and learning, it was the ideal place to unwind and reflect on the day.
Ready for your own weekend getaway?
