Old Pogue Distillery
Old Pogue Distillery
If you're searching for unique things to do in Maysville, Kentucky, few experiences capture the region's heritage quite like a visit to Old Pogue Distillery.
Overlooking the Ohio River from a historic bluff just minutes from downtown Maysville, Old Pogue is more than a bourbon distillery. It's a living piece of Kentucky history. Family-owned for generations, revived after decades of silence, and rooted in one of the earliest chapters of American bourbon-making, this remarkable destination offers visitors a chance to experience the authentic story behind one of Kentucky's most beloved traditions.
Whether you're a bourbon enthusiast, a history lover, or simply looking for a memorable day trip during your stay at Moon River Bed and Breakfast, Old Pogue Distillery deserves a spot on your itinerary.
What Makes Old Pogue Distillery Special
Unlike many modern bourbon brands, Old Pogue intentionally embraces a small-scale approach.
The distillery produces only a limited number of barrels each year, allowing every bottle to receive careful attention throughout the aging process. Their flagship Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whisky is modeled after a historic family recipe that has been preserved for more than a century.
Visitors can also discover:
Small-batch Kentucky bourbon
Old Maysville Club Rye Malt Whisky
Maysville Rye
Historic family recipes and production methods
A multi-generational bourbon-making legacy
This dedication to quality over quantity creates an experience that feels personal, authentic, and deeply connected to Kentucky's bourbon traditions.
What to Expect During Your Visit
A visit to Old Pogue Distillery is about much more than tasting bourbon.
The distillery is located beside the historic Pogue family home, a beautiful Greek Revival residence built in 1845 and listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Today, the home serves as the visitor center and offers guests a glimpse into the family's rich history.
During your tour, you'll explore:
The working distillery
The historic Pogue family home
A bourbon museum featuring rare artifacts
Pre-Prohibition memorabilia
Scenic views overlooking the Ohio River
The gift shop and tasting experience
One of the most memorable aspects of the visit is the opportunity to learn directly from the Pogue family. Visitors often find that their tour is led by sixth-generation distiller John Pogue himself, creating a uniquely personal and educational experience.
Even better, tours and tastings are offered free of charge with advance reservations.
Experience Bourbon History in Downtown Maysville
If your schedule doesn't allow for a trip up the bluff, Old Pogue offers another excellent option in the heart of downtown Maysville.
The Old Pogue Experience, located inside the Kentucky Gateway Museum Center, combines a tasting room, gift shop, and bourbon history exhibit under one roof.
Visitors can explore Maysville's important role in bourbon history, view historic artifacts and memorabilia, and sample select Old Pogue spirits while learning how the region helped shape Kentucky's whiskey industry.
It's a convenient stop for guests exploring downtown Maysville's shops, restaurants, and riverfront attractions.
Planning Your Visit
Old Pogue Distillery
Location:
716 W. Second Street
Maysville, KY 41056
Tour Information
Guided tours available by appointment
Typical tour duration: 40–60 minutes
Tastings included
Free admission and tasting experience
Advance reservations recommended
Downtown Tasting Room
Old Pogue Experience
Kentucky Gateway Museum Center
102 W. Second Street
Maysville, KY 41056
Visitors can also receive stamps for both the Kentucky Bourbon Trail Passport and the B-Line Passport at either location.
Stay Nearby at Moon River Bed and Breakfast
After spending the day exploring bourbon history, return to the comfort and charm of Moon River Bed and Breakfast.
Located along the Ohio River and just minutes from Old Pogue Distillery, Moon River provides the perfect home base for discovering Maysville's rich heritage. Guests can enjoy historic surroundings, comfortable accommodations, and easy access to the region's most popular attractions.
Whether you're following the Kentucky Bourbon Trail, planning a romantic weekend getaway, or simply exploring Northern Kentucky, Moon River Bed and Breakfast offers a relaxing place to unwind after a day of sightseeing.
Discover a True Kentucky Original
Old Pogue Distillery isn't just another stop on a bourbon tour. It's a story of resilience, family tradition, and Kentucky craftsmanship.
From its roots in the nineteenth century to its modern revival, Old Pogue represents the enduring spirit of Maysville and the people who helped build Kentucky's bourbon legacy.
During your stay at Moon River Bed and Breakfast, take the opportunity to visit this remarkable destination and experience a piece of bourbon history that continues to be written today.