1790 Kentucky Estate That Is Older Than Bourbon Hits the Market for $1.1 Million in the Heart of the Beverage’s Birthplace

In a Kentucky county known as the “Birthplace of Bourbon” stands a home that predates both the state and the drink.

The historic five-bedroom farmstead at 315 Heritage Road, which is currently on the market for $1.1 million, was built in 1790—when the land known as Woodford County was still part of Virginia’s western frontier and considered the edge of the American wilderness.

Two years later, Kentucky would become the nation’s 15th state; however, another 22 years would pass before the now-famed Woodford Reserve Distillery began producing barrels of bourbon in the heart of the region.

The 4.5-acre estate, which retains much of its frontier-era charm, recently returned to the market after an initial $1.3 million listing last year. It is represented by Michael McNeil, of Bluegrass Sotheby’s International Realty.

Offering more than 4,700 square feet of refined living space, with original details throughout—including hand-hewn beams and wide-plank floors that were laid over 200 years ago, the home is a testament to the timeless appeal of early American craftsmanship. 

In more recent history, the estate was thoughtfully restored and expanded under the guidance of architect-designer Tom Padgett, whose work bridges centuries by pairing original materials with modern comforts.

The kitchen now features Thermador appliances and abundant custom cabinetry, and each of the home’s 4.5 bathrooms has been updated to contemporary standards. 

"At the heart of the home, a stunning chef's kitchen invites gathering and celebration, showcasing an oversized island, Thermador Professional appliances, and abundant cabinetry," the listing notes.

From the tree-lined approach to the stately façade framed by mature landscaping, the home carries an understated grandeur.

Beamed ceilings and rich woodwork reveal its 18th-century soul, while the open layout, natural light, and modern finishes make it effortlessly livable.

"Wide-plank Ash, Poplar, and Pine floors run throughout, complemented by soaring windows that flood the interiors with natural light," the listing crows.

Upstairs, a primary suite and four additional bedrooms offer flexibility, while beyond the walls, the acreage unfolds in rolling pastures, stands of old trees, and a stillness that invites you to slow down.

A detached, two-car garage with storage, a barn, and a run-in shed round out the property.

For the discerning drinker, however, it is the home's proximity to the Woodford Reserve Distillery—which is located less than 20 minutes away—that will likely prove to be the most appealing amenity.

So named for the county in which it is located, Woodford Reserve was first made in 1812, becoming one of the first bourbons to be offered to the public.

Today, Kentucky is synonymous with the alcoholic beverage, a connection that is clear to see throughout Woodford County, where many of the state's most impressive race horses are also bred.

"Woodford Reserve is situated among beautiful horse farms—in fact, it’s one of the only places in Kentucky where you can see the state’s two most famous products, Bourbon whiskey and thoroughbred horses, maturing side-by-side," the beverage brand's website notes of the stunning surrounding area.

"The art of making fine bourbon first took place on the site of the Woodford Reserve Distillery, a National Historic Landmark, in 1812. You get that sense of history. The history of bourbon is the history of Kentucky, is the history of the United States."

And with its location just minutes from Keeneland, Bluegrass Airport, and The Kentucky Castle, this estate seems to embody the soul of Kentucky’s countryside—a place where the heritage of the landscape can still be felt while sipping a glass of sweet tea, or something stronger, from the front porch.