As the popularity of Kentucky’s finest spirit grows, more parts of the state—and region—are getting in the game. Learn more about the local distillers rolling out their barrels for you to enjoy.
Photograph courtesy Northside Distilling Co.
Born in a barn (really!) in Cincinnati’s quirkiest neighborhood, Northside Distilling made the move to Race Street in 2017. Though the company started out with a white corn whiskey, its bourbon is now the official bourbon of the Western & Southern Open tennis tournament. Game, set, match. 922 Race St., downtown, (513) 202-6532
Photograph courtesy Woodstone Creek
The OG of Cincinnati’s modern distilling industry, founded in 1999, was one of the first microdistilleries in the state. It’s still a tiny operation, producing something like three barrels a year. Try the goods at the St. Bernard tasting room. 4712 Vine St., St. Bernard, (513) 569-0300
Photograph courtesy Karrikin Spirits Company
There’s more than just bourbon to Karrikin. Beer and sparkling spirits also make an appearance, and in June the Fairfax distillery hosted the second Ohio Craft Whiskey Festival, which featured a limited-edition collaboration between Karrikin, Brain Brew, Northern Row, and Woodstone Creek. 3717 Jonlen Dr., Fairfax, (513) 561-5000
Photograph courtesy Robert James Distillery
Bob Slattery bought the former Shumrick and Leys and rebranded it in 2019. RJ Cinema, near Jungle Jim’s in Eastgate, serves as a de facto tasting room. The Highland Avenue facility is available for private parties and events. 4450 Eastgate South Dr., Eastgate, (513) 738-7680
Photograph courtesy New Riff Distilling
Since releasing its first bottles in 2018, New Riff has racked up plenty of awards for its bourbons and other spirits. And it’s growing: A 2021 expansion increased production, and the company plans to build a new aging warehouse in Silver Grove where all those barrels can rest. 24 Distillery Way, Bellevue, (859) 261-7433
Photograph courtesy Second Sight
The theater design and prop building background of founders Rick Couch and Carus Waggoner makes the Ludlow home of this small distiller one of a kind. Where else can you find a fortune teller–inspired still? 301 Elm St., Ludlow, (859) 488-7866
Photograph courtesy Boone County Distilling Co.
Its slogan is “Made by Ghosts,” a nod to a Boone County whiskey-making tradition that dates back to 1883 and the founding of the Petersburg Distillery. Its event center opened in 2021, and this year, it introduced the Canvus line of ready-to-drink cocktails, which is spinning off into its own company. 10601 Toebben Dr., Independence, (859) 282-6545
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