If you head to Kentucky for the Bourbon Trail, you won't want to miss a tour at Independent Stave Company. After all, much of the flavor comes from the barrel.... read more You get the opportunity to see how barrels are made. It's good to keep in mind that you will need closed toe shoes and it can be hot in there with all the fire. The tour guide was very knowledgeable, fabulous information. I'd definitely go back.

  We were at a distillery and someone mentioned this place.....wow!!! Best place on the trail! Ann was a fantastic tour guide.

  After visiting so many distillery one finally mentioned that Kentucky Cooperage gives tours. That night I immediate made reservations. The next day we. arrive go into a. small room... read more which has the names of all the distilleries that they make barrels. We view a short film then don headsets (YEA) and safety glasses for ones not wearing glasses. We first get to see one of the coopers put together a barrel. The process was explained how they alternate the staves. Only one 4inch. stave for the. bung hole. We then get to see the barrels being burned. This was fantastic and also a tad warm.. If you get a chance fit this tour into your schedule. More