Trekking The American Whiskey Trail

A sign near the Wild Turkey Distillery in Lawrenceburg, Ky., reads "Bourbon Lovers, Welcome to Paradise." It's an apt description for those making the pilgrimage to any number of sites on the American Whiskey Trail.        

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Comprised of nine distilleries in three states — many of which are nestled in some of America's most scenic settings — the trail is a true pleasure for any spirits fan to tackle. Let's face it, what could be better than spending a day learning about America's most beloved liquors, not to mention tasting them along the way?            

Whether you start your journey at George Washington's Mount Vernon distillery where whiskey is made much in the same way today as it was in the 18th century — right down to costumed distillers — or find yourself cleaning bottles or filling bourbon barrels at the Jim Beam Distillery in Clermont, Ky., the trek along the American Whiskey Trail is a tasty adventure. Here are highlights from seven scenic sites.