Bourbon and Thoroughbreds

As most everyone is aware, I'm sure, Lexington is the home of amazing thoroughbred race horses and amazing bourbons. In fact, 14 of the 20 horses that started the 2018 Kentucky Derby came from Lexington Farms. Further, over 90% of the nations bourbon hails from Kentucky and much of that near Lexington. We have visited a dozen or so distilleries and several of the Thoroughbred Farms during our past sojourns in Kentucky. We find them to be interesting and unique.

Part of the allure of this region, at least for Liz and I, is the lush beauty and community pride taken in the grooming of the landscape in this area. Obviously, raising thoroughbreds is expensive and the farms wherein the horses live are gorgeous. The distilleries, on the other hand, range from beauties like Makers Mark to rather nasty looking, more industrial venues like Buffalo Trace. Each has its own unique story to tell. And...omg...flavors of bourbon range from sweet sippers to lip-burnering throat-scalders.

This year we toured two spots early on that were firsts for us: Old Friends Farm and Castle Key Distillery.

Old Friends Farm

Castle Key Distillery

Old Friends Farm

A lovely retirement home for retired thoroughbreds, Old Friends Farm was founded in 2003. Over 100 former equine athletes live out their golden years on this farm. Horses live into their late 20's and sometimes 30's. And, I assume, most would prefer not to become someone's dog's next meal. Ouch! Via sponsorship and funding from the likes of Bob Baffert (of Kentucky Derby and other horse racing fame) these happy horses receive care, affection and exercise. It was a fun day giving them a visit.

Silver Charm - Kentucky Derby and Preakness winner - 1997

Silver Charm enjoying brunch

Touch Gold - Belmont Winner - 1997

Castle Key Distillery

Castle Key is a story waiting to be told. Their first batch of bourbon is resting quietly in their aging barns. They've "hit the rack" - dontchasee?! Nevermind...

Their digs aren't new; rather they're refurbished from the 1972 closing of the former Old Taylor Distillery. As you can see below, the castle-like interior is a great enticement to lure visitors into purchasing overpriced mementos. That said, it was a gorgeous drive like most in the area, and a fun place to kick around.