About
Dueling Grounds Distillery is a small craft bourbon distillery in Franklin, set just off I-65 and often celebrated as a “first stop” bourbon experience for travelers coming north into Kentucky. The vibe is welcoming and local, pairing grain-to-glass craftsmanship with a laid-back tasting room atmosphere where you can settle in for a pour, sample signature releases, and browse bottles and merchandise. Beyond its Franklin home base, the brand has expanded its visitor footprint with a second Kentucky location in Cave City called The Barrel Room, designed as a cozy tasting-room style stop near Mammoth Cave, which is ideal for travelers mixing bourbon with one of the state’s biggest outdoor attractions.
History
Dueling Grounds Distillery began operating in 2014 in Franklin, rooted in a mission to craft authentic Kentucky spirits with a strong sense of place and local storytelling. The distillery’s identity draws directly from the area’s folklore, especially the notorious Linkumpinch dueling grounds history, which is tied to the Kentucky/Tennessee border region. Turning regional heritage into a brand that feels uniquely Southern Kentucky. Over the years, Dueling Grounds developed into a recognizable stop for visitors seeking a craft-focused experience outside the busiest bourbon corridors, while maintaining a hands-on approach to small-batch production and hospitality. As Kentucky bourbon tourism has broadened beyond the traditional core regions, Dueling Grounds has strengthened its presence by offering multiple visitor touchpoints, including its Franklin production site and the newer Cave City tasting-room concept that serves travelers exploring the Mammoth Cave area.
Notoriety
Dueling Grounds is best known for Linkumpinch Bourbon, a flagship line built around local identity and a bold, story-driven Kentucky character. The distillery has earned attention for being a craft stop that still feels deeply connected to place. Right down to the name, which nods to the area’s historic dueling culture. Visitors also recognize Dueling Grounds for pairing its spirits experience with a relaxed, hang-out-friendly environment that can include cocktails, seasonal pours, and onsite food service at the Franklin location. For travelers who want a less crowded distillery stop that still delivers the “real Kentucky” feel, it stands out as an approachable and memorable addition to a road-trip itinerary. Especially for those entering the state via I-65 or building a Mammoth Cave and bourbon weekend with the Cave City Barrel Room.
experiences
Cocktail Classes
Duration:
N/A
Price:
N/A
At this time, the distillery does not offer any cocktail classes.
Tours & Tastings
Duration:
N/A
Price:
$12
Dueling Barrels Distillery pairs an Appalachian-foothills distillery tour with a welcoming visitor-center tasting.
amenities
Cocktail Bar
Food Options
Gift Shop
Special Events
nearby
Distilleries
B.H. James Distillers
MB Roland Distillery
Casey Jones Distillery
Things To Do
The Mint Gaming Hall
Lost River Cave
National Corvette Museum
Food & Drink
Brickyard Cafe
Rackhouse Restaurant & Bar
Colorado Grill
Stay
Springhill Suites
Hampton Inn
Embassy Suites