The B-Line Bourbon Trail

According to the Kentucky Distillers’ Association, there are more bottles of bourbon aging within state lines than there are Kentucky residents to drink them. As a new gateway to the state’s Bourbon Country, The B-Line bourbon trail in Northern Kentucky picks up just across the Ohio River from Cincinnati, shining a spotlight on a curated collection of craft distilleries, bourbon bars and restaurants beyond the more familiar Louisville, Bardstown and Lexington destinations.  

Among the participating distilleries, quirky Second Sight Spirits in the town of Ludlow produces its own line of rums (plus bourbon and liqueurs) on a Zoltar-themed still that the owners assembled themselves. New Riff Distilling in Newport sources the water for its bourbon and rye from an aquifer beneath the property. Boone County Distilling Co., Neeley Family Distillery and the Old Pogue Distillery are also on the list, and each offers a unique culture and personality. 

To sip, sample and learn about America’s native spirit, belly up to any of the several spots on The B-Line bourbon trail just across the Ohio border in Covington, Newport and Bellevue, many of which have earned their own coveted spots on the The Bourbon Review’s list of America’s Best Bourbon Bars. Because you’ll also need something to eat along the way, local restaurants on the trail offer cuisine with Southern flair to pair with modern or classic cocktails. (The Purple Poulet in Newport serves up cuisine that merges the flavors of Charleston and New Orleans.) 

Before setting out, travelers should pick up a digital or printed version of The B-Line guide. Stamps collected at participating businesses can be redeemed for prizes. For more information, visit thebline.com.