Green River Distilling Co., a name steeped in Kentucky’s whiskey lore, has planted its flag in Louisville’s vibrant Whiskey Row. Located at 714 W. Main St., this 4,400-square-foot tasting room brings the soul of Owensboro’s 140-year-old distillery to the heart of bourbon country. As Kentucky’s 10th oldest licensed distillery, Green River is no stranger to crafting fine whiskey, and its new venue promises an experience that blends tradition with a fresh twist.
The tasting room, which opened its doors in June 2025, is a nod to Green River’s roots along the Ohio River in Owensboro. Every detail tells a story, from the copper tanks and lighting fixtures salvaged from the original DSP-KY-10 distillery site to the warm, inviting atmosphere that feels like stepping into a piece of Kentucky history. Master Blender Dan Callaway, part of Green River’s parent company Lofted Spirits, sums it up best: “This place is about our Owensboro grit, but it’s also about community, surprise, and having a good time.”
Visitors are in for a treat with a setup designed to spark curiosity. The centerpiece is a horseshoe-shaped bar where guests can sip on Green River’s signature whiskeys, including exclusive bottles only available at the Louisville location. For those who want a hands-on experience, the tasting room offers walk-in tastings that guide you through the distillery’s lineup, from smooth, classic bourbons to bold, barrel-strength pours. If you’re looking to take home a piece of the action, you can even personalize your own bottle, a keepsake that’s as unique as the visit itself.
But the real gem lies hidden behind the main space: the “Dept. of Spirit Preservation,” a speakeasy-style lounge that’s equal parts secret club and whiskey lover’s dream. Here, guests can savor rare, straight-from-the-barrel decanters in an intimate setting that feels worlds away from the bustle of Main Street. It’s the kind of place where you can linger over a glass, swap stories, and soak in the rich heritage of Kentucky whiskey.
For Green River, this isn’t just a new location—it’s a bold step in sharing Owensboro’s whiskey legacy with a wider audience. The distillery, known for its “Whiskey Without Regrets,” has long been a point of pride for Western Kentucky. Now, it’s staking its claim among Louisville’s heavy hitters on Whiskey Row, a stretch of Main Street famous for its bourbon culture and historic charm. The tasting room sits just steps from other bourbon hotspots, like the Bardstown Bourbon Company’s Louisville Experience, making it a must-stop for anyone exploring the city’s whiskey scene.
The space itself is a feast for the eyes, blending rustic elements with a modern edge. Artifacts and artwork celebrating Green River’s 140-year history line the walls, while the bar’s design invites you to pull up a stool and stay awhile. Whether you’re a seasoned bourbon enthusiast or just dipping your toes into the world of whiskey, the staff is ready to guide you through the experience with a mix of expertise and down-home hospitality.
Green River’s arrival on Whiskey Row is more than a win for the distillery—it’s a boost for Louisville’s growing bourbon tourism. The city has become a mecca for whiskey fans, drawing visitors from across the country to its distilleries, bars, and tasting rooms. With Green River now in the mix, Whiskey Row feels even more like the beating heart of Kentucky’s bourbon culture. For Owensboro locals, it’s a point of pride to see their hometown distillery shine in the big city, carrying forward a tradition that’s been flowing since 1885.
Whether you’re craving a taste of history, a unique bottle to add to your collection, or a night in a speakeasy with a glass of something special, Green River’s Louisville tasting room delivers. It’s a place where you can feel the weight of 140 years of whiskey-making and the energy of a brand that’s still writing its story. To plan your visit or learn more about Green River’s legacy, check out www.greenriverwhiskey.com.