WHAT

Tasting Room

WHERE

Louisville, KY

WHEN

2025

The new Green River Tasting Room at 714 W Main Street in Louisville, KY, stands as an architectural celebration of the brand’s 140-year heritage.  The 4,400-square-foot space is located on historic Whiskey Row and blends industrial authenticity with modern hospitality.  At the heart of the tasting room is a distinctive horseshoe-shaped bar that nods to the shape of Green River’s iconic bottles. This central feature anchors a warm, communal layout that encourages social interaction and flow between thoughtfully zoned spaces.

The interior is a layered mix of reclaimed materials and curated artifacts that convey the brand’s Owensboro, KY roots. Exposed brick walls, vintage warehouse lighting, and copper distilling equipment are complemented by historical relics such as old photographs, blueprints, and advertisements, creating an immersive environment that honors the distillery’s 1885 origins. A key architectural strategy includes spatial zoning: the venue is divided into a bottle shop, cocktail bar, performance lounge, and an interactive gaming area featuring “Shoot the Shoe.” A hidden speakeasy—accessed via a secret entrance—adds an element of surprise and exclusivity, offering plush seating and private barrel-strength tasting experiences under the playful moniker “Department of Spirit Preservation.”  While rooted in industrial materials and bourbon heritage, the space is adaptive and modern, supporting live music, community events, and educational programming. Interactive elements like the fill-your-own-jug experience and brand-themed games reinforce guest engagement and brand identity. By seamlessly blending past and present, the Green River Tasting Room offers not only a compelling architectural experience but also a dynamic social destination that revitalizes Whiskey Row with spirit, culture, and a sense of place.