(Travel)

The Zoe Report Readers' Choice Awards: Best Distillery Tours In The US

There’s a story behind every pour.

by The Zoe Report
Courtesy of Great Jones Distilling Co.

The best distillery tours offer more than a behind-the-scenes look at how beloved spirits are made; they bring craftsmanship, regional tradition, and distinct flavors to life. This year’s nominees invite visitors to sip, explore, and discover the stories behind every pour.

Thank you to these terrific brands for participating and, of course, to our community for letting their voices be heard. TZR’s readers have spoken, and their favorite Distillery Tours of 2026 are:

1. Castle & Key Distillery

Frankfort, KY

What TZR readers love about Castle & Key Distillery:

  • The architecture and estate grounds are completely enchanting! Every detail is meticulously maintained and walking through feels soooo romantic.
  • Our guide was fantastic and brought the history to life. I loved the intimate tour size—it never felt rushed. A++!
  • True Kentucky hospitality at its finest. Sipping delicious bourbon amidst those exquisite gardens capped off an unforgettable visit.

2. High West Distillery

Wanship, UT

What TZR readers love about High West Distillery:

  • Completely changed my mindset on Western whiskey! Being able to ski right in for a cocktail with endless mountain views is unmatched.
  • The distillation room is stunning, and the staff is so welcoming. The whole walk-through feels both educational and fun!
  • Incredible spirits paired with surprisingly affordable food dishes. Grabbing a drink while taking in the surrounding Utah 🏔️ scenery was a showstopper!

3. Frey Ranch Farmers & Distillers

Fallon, NV

What TZR readers love about Frey Ranch Farmers & Distillers:

  • One of the few true farm distilleries! I love that they grow 100% of their grain locally right on the Nevada ranch.
  • Jason was hilariously knowledgeable and made the barrel warehouse portion so engaging. The entire team treats you like family!
  • Super sustainable 💚, a completely unique rural setting, and easily some of the smoothest bourbon I’ve ever tasted. Good looking merch, too.

5. Four Roses Distillery

Lawrenceburg, KY

6. Casa Silencio

Xaagá, Oaxaca, MX

7. Angel's Envy

Louisville, KY

8. Freeland Spirits

Portland, OR

9. WhistlePig Whiskey

Louisville, KY

10. Old Forester Distilling Co.

Louisville, KY

Have questions? Read the official Readers’ Choice rules.

Photos Courtesy of Angel's Envy/Bardstown Bourbon Company/Casa Silencio/Castle & Key Distillery/Clase Azul La Terraza/Dillon's Small Batch Distillers/Four Roses Distillery/Freeland Spirits/Frey Ranch Farmers & Distillers/Great Jones Distilling Co./High West Distillery/Old Forester Distilling Co./Stranahan's Colorado Whiskey/Uncle Nearest Premium Whiskey/WhistlePig