Frequently Asked Questions

What is the purpose of the Bourbon Capital Guild?

The Bourbon Capital Guild is a premium bourbon society based in the Bourbon Capital of the World, Bardstown, KY. Our members will have access to unique bourbon educational opportunities, barrel picks, and events at our partner distilleries. Whether you’re a bourbon connoisseur or a newbie, you will find value in the Bourbon Capital Guild. Please join us as we build a culture of bourbon appreciation here in Bardstown, KY.

How is this bourbon society different from others?

The Bourbon Capital Guild is overseen by the Bourbon Capital Alliance, a nonprofit organization based in Bardstown. The Bourbon Capital Alliance has nine local and regional member distilleries. We can leverage our great existing partnerships with these historic distilleries to give our Bourbon Capital Guild members access to experiences, tastings, and barrel picks that other bourbon societies can only dream of. Additionally, our Bourbon Capital Guild members will receive access to ongoing bourbon education courses through the means of the Bourbon Capital Academy. If you want access to special experiences and to continue to grow your bourbon knowledge, the Bourbon Capital Guild is what you desire.

What types of events will I be able to attend throughout the year?

We’ll work closely with our partner distilleries to put on several special, member only events throughout the year. Whether it’s a special tasting of an unreleased bourbon, a behind the scenes tour, or more, we’ll work to provide it. And we want to hear from our members…what do you want? You can help guide this.

It is important to know that not every event will be able to accommodate every single Bourbon Capital Guild member. Some events must have capacity limits due to the size of the space, limited product, etc. In those cases, the events will be first come, first served. We’ll do our best to ensure each and every Bourbon Capital Guild member gets to attend several events throughout the year.

Will I be able to attend every barrel pick throughout the year?

No. Only 8-12 people are typically allowed on a barrel pick. Founding members get the first crack at a barrel pick. Once a Founding member has done a pick, they are ineligible for subsequent picks until each member has had a chance. We want everyone to get a barrel pick opportunity!

Will I have access to the barrel pick bottles?

Yes. We will strike an agreement with our partners to facilitate first access to barrel pick bottles to our Bourbon Capital Guild members. Typically, it works like this: there will be a timeframe in which Bourbon Capital Guild members can go to our partner liquor stores or distillery retail shops and purchase a Bourbon Capital Guild pick before the general public has the opportunity.

Will you ship barrel pick bottles to me?

No, that is not something we are doing currently. In the future, as shipping laws become less stringent, we may explore that option. For right now, you must come to our partner liquor stores or distillery retail shops in Bardstown, KY, to pick up any barrel pick bottles.

Is there a charitable component to the Bourbon Capital Guild?

Absolutely! A charitable/philanthropic component is key to most bourbon societies, and the Bourbon Capital Guild is no different. We will work to provide a unique charitable opportunity each and every year. Utilizing bourbon to positively impact our wonderful local community is an ongoing goal of the Bourbon Capital Guild.

What is the Bourbon Capital Academy?

The Bourbon Capital Academy is a two hour experience built from the ground up here in Bardstown and offered in the Brindiamo Penthouse at historic Spalding Hall beginning in 2023. This entry level course will give you a base knowledge of bourbon and the role Bardstown has played in the evolution of bourbon into the worldwide phenomenon it is today. Oh, and you’ll get to taste some of Bardstown’s finest bourbons throughout the course. After you’ve taken your entry level course, the doors open for you to experience continuing education experiences at our partner distilleries.

What are my membership options?

We signed up 100 Founding Members in September, 2021. There will be no additional Founding Members added, ever. We are currently offering Single Barrel memberships as space becomes available. Keep an eye on our Membership page for all the details.

What are the costs associated with my membership and how long does my membership last?

Please refer to the Membership page for all member costs and benefits.

Are there any restrictions on who can be a member of the Bourbon Capital Guild?

Just one…you must be 21 years of age on the day you sign up to be a member. Otherwise, any person is absolutely welcome. The Bourbon Capital Guild is inclusive.

I’m not quite ready to dive in. What should I do?

No worries at all. Here’s what we suggest: sign up for our Bourbon Capital Guild Digest e-newsletter. Follow us on Facebook and/or Instagram. Those resources will keep you in the know. If you like what you see, join us in the future. If you ever have questions, feel free to reach out to us at [email protected]. Cheers!