Today Louisville is a modern whiskey mecca, but when Jockey Silks Bourbon Bar opened there in 1972, it was way ahead of its time. More than 50 years later, it remains a beloved local institution, Located in The Galt House Hotel, Jockey Silks celebrates the city’s two signature pastimes, horse racing and bourbon.
The ambiance at Jockey Silks feels like it’s Derby Day every day, with historic horse photos, jockey statues, and more than 100 whiskies on offer. Not surprisingly, there’s a heavy emphasis on Kentucky and an ample selection of ryes. But the racing vibe doesn’t hit you over the head—the atmosphere is more like a spacious, open living room with contemporary and comfortable couches, wingback chairs, low tables, and of course the bar itself. Even if you’re not staying at The Galt House, Jockey Silks is a great place to take a break after sightseeing, as it fronts the Ohio River in the heart of the city’s tourist area, close to the Muhammad Ali Center, Louisville Slugger Factory, Kentucky Science Museum, and Kentucky Center for the Performing Arts.
The bar's menu cover sports the slogan “Whiskey All Day,” and the list is organized by distillery—the Beam choices, for example, include Baker’s Single Barrel, Basil Hayden, Bookers Uncut and Unfiltered, Jim Beam Black, Knob Creek, and Old Grandad 114 proof. Every major Kentucky producer is included, along with smaller distilleries like Kentucky Artisan (Jefferson’s), Limestone Branch (Yellowstone), and Barton 1792. Prices are accessible, with several offerings at $10/1.5 oz., like Evan Williams 1783 and Rittenhouse rye. Then there is a list of 30-plus Rare & Allocated Whiskies, from W.L. Weller Special Reserve ($30) to Michter’s 20 year old ($300). In addition, there are eight private barrel selections from the likes of Blanton’s, Jefferson’s, and W.L. Weller, as well as a trio of bourbon flights, each with three .5 oz. pours, one from Michter’s ($17), one from Old Forester ($15), and a unique pick-your-own from the eight private labels ($25).
There’s no shortage of whiskey cocktails ($12) to choose from, including the namesake Jockey’s Old Fashioned (Four Roses bourbon, Old Fashioned syrup, Luxardo cherry, bitters, orange peel). There’s a Boulevardier with Old Forester rye, a Manhattan with Michter’s rye, a Paper Plane with Four Roses, and even a bourbon martini with Evan Williams 101. Galt House is the official host hotel of the Kentucky Derby, so naturally there is a Mint Julep offered, and at Jockey Silks it's made with Four Roses bourbon.
