Shots are the best way to loosen up before a date, with popular types including a single shot of whiskey, one self-inflicted paintball shot to the thigh, or a bracing stare into one of Richard Nixon's headshots. Explore the genesis of the only liquid antidote to nerves with today’s Groupon: for $12, you get $25 worth of gift-shop merchandise and a complimentary distillery tour at the Buffalo Trace Distillery in Frankfort.
America’s oldest continually operating distillery, Buffalo Trace Distillery racks up accolades year after year, winning a 2010 silver medal at the International Wine & Spirit Competition, and 2010’s Whiskey Attraction of the Year award from Whisky Magazine. Groupon holders and up to 10 friends head to the distillery for an eye-opening whiskey walk, with free one-hour tours of the facilities available by reservation.
Tours open with a video cataloging the distillery's history, from its post-Prohibition boom to its brief stint as a late-'70s discotheque. Guests then take an up-close gander at the intricacies of premium bourbon production, learning about aging and bottling techniques before sampling some freshly concocted liquor. After that, head to the gift shop to stock up on souvenirs such as an insulated mug ($12.90) or a guide to spirits such as The Whisky Bible 2011 ($19.95). Buffalo Trace hats ($9.95–$29.99) come in a variety of styles and protect braincases from acid rain or drive-by piethrowers.
Sprawled over 119 rolling acres, Buffalo Trace Distillery welcomes visitors year-round, with tours departing on the hour six days a week.