Perfect Derby Week Experience
Elevate Your Derby Week with Sip Kentucky
Derby Week is the most exciting time of the year in Kentucky, but the magic of the Bluegrass State is found in more than just the races. It’s in the rich history of our bourbon, the stunning landscapes, and the warm hospitality of our distilleries. At SIP Kentucky, we offer exclusive, all-inclusive Kentucky Derby bourbon tours designed to make your Derby Week 2026 an unforgettable experience. Forget the stress of planning and navigating the crowds; our expert guides will lead you on a journey through the heart of bourbon country, providing a perfect blend of high-energy racing and relaxed, elegant tastings.
Our tours are meticulously planned to combine the excitement of the Derby with the rich tradition of the Kentucky Bourbon Trail. We offer private, curated experiences that provide a welcome break from the festivities and a deeper connection to Kentucky’s most celebrated export. Whether you’re a seasoned bourbon connoisseur or new to the world of whiskey, our tours are crafted to meet your specific interests and preferences.
We understand that Derby Week is a once-in-a-lifetime event for many visitors. That’s why we’ve designed a tour package that stands out from the rest. Here’s what you can expect when you book a Derby week tour with us:
Every tour is a private, custom experience tailored to your group. We’ll help you choose from a list of world-class distilleries, including iconic names like Maker’s Mark, Woodford Reserve, and Buffalo Trace. We can also include visits to smaller, craft distilleries for a more intimate, behind-the-scenes look at the bourbon-making process. The beauty of a private tour is that you set the pace—you can spend more time at a distillery that captivates you, or add a stop at a local restaurant for a quick bite.
Forget navigating the busy roads of Louisville during Derby Week. Our fleet of luxurious, private vehicles, including our Mercedes-Benz Sprinter vans and SUVs, ensures a comfortable and stylish journey. We handle all the logistics, from pick-up to drop-off, so your group can relax and enjoy the tastings without worrying about a designated driver or finding parking. Each vehicle is equipped with comfortable seating, climate control, and a state-of-the-art sound system, transforming the travel into part of the experience. We also serve tours in the Bardstown area and Lexington region.
Our guides are more than just drivers; they’re passionate bourbon storytellers and local experts. They are certified Bourbon Stewards who will provide a rich historical context, explain the nuances of the bourbon-making process, and share insider knowledge that can only come from years of experience in Kentucky bourbon country. They’ll also provide tips on navigating the Derby itself, from what to wear to where to find the best mint julep at Churchill Downs.
Our professional guide will pick up your private group from your hotel or rental in Louisville.
Enjoy a delicious, traditional Kentucky lunch at a local eatery, such as a farm-to-table restaurant in nearby Versailles. Your guide will handle the reservations.
Head back towards Louisville, where your guide will drop you off at a pre-arranged location for a night of Derby festivities.
Arrive at your first distillery, such as Woodford Reserve, for a private, guided tour and tasting. You’ll learn about the history of the brand and the meticulous process that goes into every bottle.
Continue your journey to a second distillery, perhaps Four Roses, for an exclusive tasting of their single barrel and small-batch bourbons. We also offer tours focused on the Urban Bourbon Trail in Louisville.
Yes, absolutely. Derby Week is the busiest time of the year for bourbon tours. We highly recommend booking your tour at least 6-9 months in advance to ensure availability, especially if you have a specific distillery or group size in mind. Our spots fill up quickly as soon as the Derby dates are announced.
We can accommodate groups of all sizes, from a small, intimate group of two to large corporate or family events. Our fleet includes vehicles of varying sizes to ensure your group is comfortable and well taken care of.
Yes, the beauty of our private tours is the ability to customize your itinerary. We’ll work with you to understand your preferences and build a perfect tour that includes your must-see distilleries. We can also provide pre-mixed tours if you prefer a pre-planned route.
During Derby Week, the energy in Kentucky is unparalleled. Our tours are designed to be a luxurious escape from the crowds, a chance to relax and enjoy the bourbon in a private setting, all while being a short distance from the race day festivities. It’s a perfect combination of two of Kentucky’s greatest traditions. For alternative options, check out our public bourbon tours.
While the “Run for the Roses” is the main event, a trip to Kentucky isn’t complete without experiencing its bourbon culture. Our tours are the perfect way to take a break from the crowds and enjoy a curated, private bourbon experience. We handle the transportation and reservations, allowing you to relax, enjoy the tastings, and make lasting memories.
