Whiskey Thief

By VOICE-TRIBUNE • Photos by Matt Johnson

Kentucky’s bourbon trail is a treasure trove of rich flavors, rolling landscapes, and storied traditions, Whiskey Thief Distilling Co. is no exception. Nestled on a sprawling 127-acre working farm in Franklin County, this distillery is a haven for bourbon enthusiasts and newcomers alike. When the VOICE-TRIBUNE visited their NuLu tasting room and later explored the farm itself, we quickly understood why Whiskey Thief is celebrated for its authentic approach to bourbon.

Whiskey Thief offers bourbon “at the proof nature intended,” and their dedication to delivering an unfiltered, unadulterated tasting experience is apparent the moment you step inside. Whether at the Nulu tasting room or their rural distillery, the experience revolves around a single, iconic tool: the whiskey thief. This device, used to extract bourbon straight from the barrel, gives guests a firsthand connection to the spirit.

In NuLu, their intimate tasting room perfectly reflects the distillery’s philosophy. Each tasting is guided by one of their Stave & Thief Certified Bourbon Stewards, a team so well-versed in the nuances of bourbon they could turn even the greenest visitor into a budding enthusiast. As you sample selections, you’re not just sipping bourbon; you’re learning about its mash bill, age, proof, and the meticulous process that makes each barrel unique. The hands-on opportunity to fill your own bottle from the barrel is an unforgettable experience. Lovers of live music have something to look forward to as well, as the team at Whiskey Thief has brought their passion for music along with them to Louisville. 

While the NuLu location captures the sophistication of urban bourbon culture, the farm distillery brings you back to bourbon’s roots. Surrounded by fields of corn and grains grown onsite, the farm embodies Kentucky’s agricultural heritage. This connection to the land is tangible in every glass, as the grains cultivated here are used in their pot-still single distillation process. Weekends at the farm take the experience to another level. A vibrant mix of cocktails, food offerings (Thursday-Sunday in the spring, summer and fall), and live music sets the stage for visitors to soak in the Kentucky landscape from picnic tables scattered across the back lawn.

Formerly known as Three Boys Farm Distillery, the return to their original name in 2022 was a nod to the tools and traditions that define their craft. The whiskey thief symbolizes the spirit of their approach: personal, hands-on, and steeped in history.

For those seeking one-of-a-kind gifts or exclusive bottles, the distillery’s onsite Pro Shop offers a curated selection of bourbons, moonshines, gins, and seasonal spirits, along with branded merchandise and unique Kentucky finds. While some items are available online, there’s something special about discovering these treasures in person. If you decide to purchase the bourbon or rye, that needs to be done on-site at the farm or tasting room - the brand isn’t in distribution.

Whether you’re sipping bourbon in their NuLu tasting room, filling your own bottle at the farm, or enjoying live music on a sunny weekend, Whiskey Thief invites you to slow down, savor the moment, and embrace the magic of bourbon straight from the barrel.

For any bourbon lover—or anyone curious about this iconic spirit—Whiskey Thief is an experience you won’t want to miss!