Heaven Hill Distillery: A Brief History and Barrel Pick Experience

Welcome Fellow whisk(e)y aficionados to an exclusive exploration of one of Kentucky's most esteemed distilleries—Heaven Hill. Nestled in the heart of bourbon country, Heaven Hill Distillery stands as an enduring testament to the time-honored traditions and unmatched craftsmanship that define the spirit of American bourbon. Join us as we embark on a journey steeped in history, resilience, and the pursuit of perfection, culminating in the selection of a barrel of the illustrious Elijah Craig Barrel Proof Bourbon with Reno’s own Drams and Smoke.

A Brief History

Heaven Hill Distillery traces its roots back to 1935 when the Shapira family founded it, shortly after the end of Prohibition. Over the decades, Heaven Hill has grown to become one of the largest independent family-owned distilleries in the United States. With a dedication to quality and innovation, they've earned a reputation for producing some of the finest bourbons and whiskies in the world.

However, Heaven Hill's journey has not been without its challenges. In 1996, tragedy struck when a massive fire engulfed a significant portion of the distillery, destroying several warehouses and nearly one-fourth of its bourbon inventory. Despite the devastation, Heaven Hill persevered, rebuilding and continuing to craft exceptional spirits.



The Barrel-PickinG Experience

Now, let's fast forward to the present day, where our adventure begins. Picture yourself strolling through the picturesque landscape of Bardstown, Kentucky, surrounded by rickhouses and the sweet scent of aging bourbon. As you step into the historic grounds of Heaven Hill, you're greeted by the sight of those towering rickhouses filled with countless barrels of aging whiskey. The air is thick with anticipation as you make your way to the tasting room, where rows of barrels await your discerning palate. This is where Drams and Smoke, a renowned liquor store and smoke shop in Reno, had the privilege of selecting a barrel of Elijah Craig Barrel Proof Bourbon at Heaven Hill Distillery.

Guided by master distillers and whiskey experts, you embark on a sensory journey unlike any other. Each barrel offers a unique flavor profile, ranging from rich caramel and vanilla to bold spice and oak. With careful consideration, you sample barrel after barrel, searching for that perfect expression of Elijah Craig Barrel Proof Bourbon.

Finally, after much deliberation, the moment of decision arrives. With unanimous consent, you and the team from Drams and Smoke select the barrel that epitomizes everything you love about bourbon—a harmonious balance of flavor, complexity, and character.

As the barrel is prepared for bottling, you can't help but feel a sense of pride and excitement. Not only have you chosen a remarkable whiskey, but you've also become part of the storied legacy of Heaven Hill Distillery.



In the world of American whiskey, few experiences rival the thrill of picking a barrel at Heaven Hill Distillery. From its humble beginnings to its enduring resilience, Heaven Hill represents the very essence of bourbon craftsmanship and tradition.

So, the next time you raise a glass of Elijah Craig Barrel Proof Bourbon, take a moment to savor not just the whiskey itself, but the remarkable journey that brought it from the heart of Kentucky to your glass. And if you ever find yourself in Bardstown, be sure to pay a visit to Heaven Hill Distillery—you never know what treasures await in the depths of those aging rickhouses. Cheers to good company, great whiskey, and unforgettable experiences!