Some distilleries seem to be home to more than just great bourbon…

As we venture into the haunted season, it’s time to uncover the hidden stories behind some of Kentucky’s most legendary distilleries. From ghostly figures to chilling sounds, these distilleries are known for more than just their world-class bourbon. Read on to learn about the spine-tingling encounters reported at these iconic spots!

James B. Beam Distilling Co.
One of Kentucky’s most famous distilleries, Jim Beam isn’t just a powerhouse in the bourbon world—it’s also considered one of the most haunted. Visitors have long reported eerie sightings and sounds, from ghostly screams echoing across the grounds to the spectral figure of a former guard still patrolling on moonlit nights. Warehouse D is particularly active, with employees claiming to have seen a man in overalls hiding among the barrels, and a mysterious woman in formal attire lingering in Warehouse K. 

Heaven Hill Distillery
Bardstown, the “Bourbon Capital of the World,” is known for its rich bourbon heritage and—according to many—its haunted locations. Heaven Hill, one of the town’s flagship distilleries, has a long history of eerie occurrences, especially following the devastating fire in 1996. Some say the flames awoke spirits that have yet to rest.

Wild Turkey Distillery
Could the spirits at Wild Turkey Distillery be connected to the original Ripy family who founded it? Some believe so. Olivia Ripy, granddaughter of the distillery’s founder, has experienced more than her share of ghostly activity. From mysterious voices to dishes inexplicably falling from shelves, the signs are hard to ignore. In 2015, a still photo captured on SyFy’s Ghost Hunters showed what appeared to be a man leaning against a pole—possibly Bob, a deceased employee, or a long-lost Ripy relative keeping watch over his legacy.

Old Forester Distilling Co.
Situated on Louisville’s historic Whiskey Row, Old Forester has a past filled with intrigue and a fair share of ghostly encounters. The distillery is built near the site of the old Galt House Hotel, where several deaths occurred during the Civil War. From apparitions walking through walls to a ghostly figure seen sipping bourbon in the executive office, Old Forester’s spirits are as lively as its history. And for those feeling extra adventurous, a visit to nearby Doc Crow’s or O’Shea’s Irish Pub might just offer more than a good drink—both locations are rumored to be hotbeds of paranormal activity.

Buffalo Trace Distillery
As one of the oldest distilleries in America, Buffalo Trace has seen more than its fair share of history—and some say its ghostly inhabitants are still around. Visitors have reported hearing strange noises and even seeing the ghost of Colonel Blanton himself. The distillery’s eerie atmosphere is enough to give any bourbon lover chills.

Maker’s Mark Distillery
In the tranquil setting of Loretto, Kentucky, Maker’s Mark Distillery might seem peaceful, but some say the nights tell a different story. From shadowy figures in the barrel houses to unexplained noises, the spirits here might be just as aged and complex as the bourbon they protect.