Dueling Grounds Distillery
About Dueling Grounds Distillery
Whether you're en route to Kentucky Downs or traveling between Louisville and Nashville on I-65, a stop in Franklin at Dueling Grounds Distillery is a worthwhile detour for the whiskey aficionado or history buff. Established in 2013 by music promoter Marc Dottore, he was looking for a way to tell the authentic story of the area while providing a uniquely crafted spirit. Starting small with a modest 25-gallon pot still, the distillery has grown into its versatile a 200-gallon hybrid still.
For the casual whiskey fan that thinks everything in the whiskey world has been tried, you're in for a surprise here. Dueling Grounds' flagship Bourbon uses several processes that make it unique, when it comes to Kentucky Bourbon. First, the distillery is one of only four in the state that primarily use the sweet mash process. They also make a wheated bourbon, which is less spicy than those made with rye as the flavoring grain. And to top it all off, while most of the Kentucky Bourbon you have tried is first distilled in a column still, Dueling Ground uses their still as a pot still, giving their Bourbon a heavier body.
What distinguishes Dueling Grounds is its focus on local history. Instead of traditional distillery lore, the tour immerses visitors in the area's past as a dueling ground, where political adversaries settled their disputes.
After an in-depth tour, that may be led by one of the distillers or Marc the owner, guests can sample a variety of spirits in the tasting room, including bourbon, liqueurs, gin, and white dog. You'll also get a chance to hear some of the local stories surrounding Sandford Duncan's Farm, where over 40 duels took place, including one with between Texas and Tennessee's Sam Houston and General William White, a veteran of the Battle of New Orleans. After your tasting, weekend visitors can stay and enjoy cocktails and enjoy a freshly made pizza from the Dueling Grounds pizza kitchen.
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Map to Distillery
Note: This distillery information is provided “as is” and is intended for initial research only. Be aware, offerings change without notice and distilleries periodically shut down or suspend services. Always use the distillery’s websites to get the most detailed and up-to-date information. Your due diligence will ensure the smoothest experience possible.