Cincinnati: Second Sight Spirits Distillery Tour and Tasting

Travelers curious about Kentucky’s famed distilling heritage will find this tour at Second Sight Spirits a compelling glimpse into the art of craft spirits. Located just across the river in Ludlow, Kentucky, this 75-minute tour offers a hands-on look at how small, independent distilleries are keeping the tradition alive with a personal touch. Thoughtfully designed for those who love bourbon, rum, or just the story behind the bottle, this experience blends education, flavor, and a bit of fairy-tale whimsy.

Two things stand out immediately: First, the welcoming atmosphere and the chance to learn about the distillation process from passionate insiders. Second, the tastings—sampling a variety of spirits, including the signature Oak Eye Kentucky Bourbon, hazelnut liqueur, and some fine rums—make this a memorable, tasty journey. A potential consideration is that the group size is limited to just 10 people, which means you’ll want to book in advance if you’re keen to secure a spot. This tour suits spirits enthusiasts, curious travelers, or anyone looking for an authentic taste of Kentucky’s distilling craftsmanship.

Key Points

• Authentic craft experience in a small, friendly distillery.
• Tastings of bourbon, rum, and specialty liqueurs.
• Learn the secrets of distillation from passionate guides.
• Unique stories of how two childhood friends built their distillery.
• Behind-the-scenes looks at custom equipment and distilling processes.
• Flexible booking options with free cancellation and pay-later reservation.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Up-Close Look at Second Sight Spirits

For those pondering whether this tour is worth their time, consider a few core points. First, it’s a small-group experience, limited to ten participants, which promises a more personal, engaging visit. The 75-minute duration makes it accessible and easy to fit into a busy schedule, especially if you’re exploring the Cincinnati-Kentucky area.

Second, the tour is led by a live guide who speaks English and is eager to share the ins and outs of distillation. This isn’t just a walking demo; it’s an interactive experience where you learn about the craftsmanship and history behind each bottle. We loved the way stories about how the distillery’s founders built their operation—through luck, bartering, and even Craigslist finds—add a relatable, entrepreneurial touch.

What Happens During the Tour?

The journey begins with a behind-the-scenes look at the distillery operations. You’ll see the custom-made still and hear how the spirits are crafted from raw ingredients to finished product. This part of the tour demystifies the process, making clear why Kentucky bourbon holds such a reputation for quality.

Throughout, the guide shares entertaining circus tales that add a whimsical flavor, reminding us that even in serious craft, there’s room for fun. This storytelling makes the tour more engaging and memorable, especially for those who enjoy a bit of humor along with their history.

Tasting the Flavors

The highlight, of course, is the tasting session. You’ll sample the signature Oak Eye Kentucky Bourbon, which offers a showcase of Kentucky’s renowned spirit-making. The hazelnut liqueur is a crowd favorite, offering a sweet, nutty contrast to the robust bourbon. Plus, you’ll sample several rums, and some moonshines, providing a well-rounded spirit experience.

Many reviewers emphasize the quality and distinctiveness of the spirits. One said, “The hazelnut liqueur is a must-try—smooth and flavorful, a perfect after-dinner drink.” Another appreciated the chance to sample different spirits that aren’t widely available elsewhere.

The Value of the Experience

Compared to larger, commercial distillery tours, Second Sight Spirits offers a more intimate, more personalized experience. The price reflects this—it’s a relatively modest investment for what’s essentially a private tasting and educational experience. You leave with a better understanding of the craft, plus a few bottles or samples to savor later.

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Practical Details

The tour costs money, but the value comes from the quality of the guide, the personalized attention, and the variety of spirits sampled. The booking process is flexible—you can reserve now and pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours beforehand, giving you peace of mind.

It’s important to note that you must be 21 or older with a valid ID to participate in the tastings. The tour is not suitable for children, pregnant women, or those who prefer non-alcoholic experiences.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is best suited for adults who enjoy spirits or are interested in the craft of distillation. It’s especially appealing for those who appreciate a smaller, more personal setting over large, commercial tours. If you’re a bourbon enthusiast, you’ll love the detailed stories and tasting variety. Those curious about how spirits are made will find the behind-the-scenes insights enlightening.

However, if you’re looking for a quick, superficial overview or traveling with children, this may not be your best fit. The tour’s focus on tasting and storytelling makes it a more immersive and authentic experience for those willing to spend a little time learning and savoring.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

The tour kicks off with an introduction to the distillery’s history and the story of its founders—two childhood friends who built their operation through luck, barter, and Craigslist finds. This personal connection adds charm and authenticity from the start.

Next, you’ll move into the distillery’s operational area. Here, your guide will point out the custom-made still and explain its significance in producing the spirits. This part of the tour is especially interesting for those who enjoy understanding the technical aspects—from fermentation to distillation—without getting too technical.

You’ll hear entertaining tales and circus stories that keep the mood lively, making the learning experience fun and memorable. These stories showcase the personality behind the brand and provide a break from the more technical side of things.

Following this, the tour concludes with a tasting session. You’ll sample the Oak Eye Kentucky Bourbon, noted for its balanced flavors and smooth finish. The hazelnut liqueur is described as a “crowd favorite,” with a flavor profile that’s both nutty and sweet. The inclusion of rums and moonshines adds variety and demonstrates the distillery’s versatility.

Travelers have raved about the quality of the spirits and the generous tasting portions. One reviewer mentioned that they appreciated the educational yet relaxed atmosphere, while others highlighted the friendly guide and small group size that make this feel more like visiting a friend’s private cellar than a commercial operation.

Final Thoughts

This Second Sight Spirits tour offers an authentic peek into Kentucky’s craft spirit scene in a cozy setting. It combines education, flavor, and storytelling in a way that appeals to those who want more than a rushed, large-scale tour. The small group size, personal stories, and variety of tastings guarantee a memorable experience, especially if you’re a fan of bourbon and spirits in general.

While the tour is relatively short, it packs enough insight and flavor to be well worth the price. It’s ideal for adults seeking a genuine, off-the-beaten-path experience in the Cincinnati-Kentucky area. If you love learning about how your favorite drinks are made, and enjoy tasting something a little different from the commercial norm, this tour will likely be a highlight of your trip.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for non-drinkers?
The tour emphasizes tasting, so it’s best suited for those aged 21 and older with a valid ID. Non-drinkers might find the tasting aspect less appealing, but they can still enjoy the storytelling and behind-the-scenes look.

Can I cancel my reservation?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The booking is flexible, allowing you to reserve now and pay later.

Are children allowed on this tour?
No, the tour is not suitable for children under 18 or pregnant women, as it involves alcohol sampling.

What is included in the tasting?
You’ll sample Oak Eye Kentucky Bourbon, hazelnut liqueur, and several rums, as well as moonshines, depending on availability.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts about 75 minutes, making it easy to fit into your day without overcommitting.

Is the guide available in languages other than English?
No, the tour is conducted in English only.

What should I bring?
A valid ID or passport is required for sampling. No other specific items are needed.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby