Chicken Cock Whiskey’s Bardstown visitor center marks its first year with an exclusive single barrel release and joins the Kentucky Bourbon Trail as an official distillery experience.
Chicken Cock Whiskey Begins On-Site Distilling at Historic Venue
Circa 1856, the official brand home of Chicken Cock Whiskey in Bardstown, Kentucky, has reached its one-year milestone and secured a spot on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail. The anniversary celebration on June 27th will feature live music, food trucks, and the launch of an exclusive Reserve Cask Single Barrel release.
The venue opened in 2023 as an immersive experience center showcasing the whiskey brand’s history dating back to the 19th century. Located in what locals call the Bourbon Capital of the World, Circa 1856 offers guided tours, tastings of the brand’s award-winning portfolio, and education about production and aging processes.
A key development this year has been the activation of a custom 40-gallon still, marking the beginning of on-site distilling operations. The small-scale production complements Chicken Cock’s existing partnership with Bardstown Bourbon Company for larger volume production.
“Led by a passionate, all-female team, Circa 1856 continues to deepen Chicken Cock Whiskey’s roots in Bardstown—honoring the brand’s storied past while forging its future,” according to the company’s announcement.
Plans For Expansion Beyond Kentucky Base
The anniversary event from 6:00-9:00 pm will offer attendees access to patio games, curated whiskey tastings, and the first opportunity to purchase the limited Reserve Cask Single Barrel. This special release was hand-selected by the original team that launched Circa 1856 and will remain exclusive to visitors of the Bardstown location.
The Kentucky Bourbon Trail attracts over one million visitors annually to its member distilleries, making Circa 1856’s inclusion a significant milestone for brand visibility. The trail, established in 1999, connects 18 signature bourbon distilleries across the state and has become a major driver of Kentucky’s $8.6 billion bourbon tourism industry.
Bardstown itself hosts multiple distilleries and has emerged as a central hub for bourbon enthusiasts exploring smaller craft producers alongside established names. The city’s historic downtown district features numerous bourbon-focused establishments within walking distance of each other.
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The venue includes an upscale bar area designed to reflect what the company describes as “the warmth and grit of the brand itself.” Educational components cover Chicken Cock’s history, including its survival through Prohibition and subsequent revival in the modern craft spirits movement.
Looking ahead, Chicken Cock Whiskey has indicated plans for expansion beyond its Kentucky home, with additional locations to be announced in the coming months. Reservations for tours and tastings at Circa 1856 can be made through the company’s website.
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