Go Wine Tasting in Kentucky This Summer

Warm summer days and wine tasting seem to be two things that go perfectly together. Where you go wine tasting matters, too, and we can think of no where than the beautiful state of Kentucky. When it comes to visiting wineries, Kentucky may not be the first, or even second, destination that comes to mind. Regions like California's Napa Valley or Oregon's Willamette Valley have been dominant when it comes to U.S. wine production, and French and Italian wines have long reigned as the kings and queens of winemaking. That's changing though, and Kentucky is one state that's is stepping into the spotlight. An interesting and little known fact is that Kentucky was home to the first commercial winery in the country. It's wine making days date back to the 1800's! Find your favorite Bed and Breakfast from our member directory, and book your room today!

Where to Go Wine Tasting in Kentucky

If you're planning a trip for some wine tasting in Kentucky, you'll want to download the new app, Drink Ky. It was a joint venture by the Kentucky Grape & Wine Council and the Kentucky Guild of Brewers, and provides an excellent guide to the state's 60 wineries (and 20+ craft breweries). Most wineries are concentrated in the North/Central region of Kentucky, especially in the picturesque surroundings of Louisville, but there are wineries accessible from just about any region of the state. Kentucky's Department of Tourism has put together some wine trail information, and is a comprehensive resource as you begin planning your adventure through Kentucky wineries. Here are a few of the best highlights:

Atwood Hill Winery and Vineyard, established in 1918, was originally a tobacco farm that decided to switch to planting wine grapes in 2005. They are known for their dry, semi-sweet and fruit wines.
Elk Creek Vineyards has a wine tasting room that features over 20 varietals of award winning wine, in addition to gourmet soups, salads, and sandwiches daily.
The Baker-Bird Winery and Vineyard is listed on the National Historic Registry, and it is the oldest commercial estate winery on its original land in Kentucky, dating back to 1797.
StoneBrook Vineyards & Winery is a small farm family winery that offers beautiful vineyard views, a newly renovated 115 year old farm house converted into a cozy wine tasting room, and plenty of Kentucky Charm. The winery is open for wine tasting and tours on the weekend and by appointment on weekdays.
McIntyre's Winery and Berries is a great place to sample fruit wines. In addition to wine tasting, they also offer winery tours.
Springhill Winery rests on a stately, historic plantation, circa 1857. Their wines include Cabernet Franc and Sauvignon, Cambourcin, and Chardonnay.
Talon Winery & Vineyards, located near Lexington, boasts an 18th century tasting room, and wine tasting 7 days a week.

Wine Tasting Tours

One of the easiest and best ways to enjoy the wineries of Kentucky is via tours. Kentucky Wine & Bourbon Tours offers plenty of options through the Bluegrass regions of Kentucky. There's also a combo tour that offers the best of Kentucky: The Wine and Spirits Circle Tour of the Bluegrass. In addition to these companies, you can arrange private tours with Night Shift Limousine Service's North Kentucky Wine Trail Tour, and Thoroughbred Limousine Tours. Your local Innkeeper can be a great resource for you as well, which is yet another reason why staying at one of our member Bed and Breakfasts is the best solution for lodging in Kentucky! To end your visit to Kentucky on a perfect note, sink into the relaxing accommodations and warm hospitality found at each of our member Bed and Breakfasts. Our Innkeepers work hard so you don't have to. The first step is to find your favorite Inn and book your stay today. Let us help you with the rest!