The art of making fine bourbon first took place on the site of the Woodford Reserve Distillery, a National Historic Landmark, in 1812. The present day Woodford Reserve Distillery is built on history. Often cited as the birthplace of bourbon, it was here in 1838 that Dr James Crow perfected the “Sour Mash” process that is still used in bourbon production today, adding to the distillery’s historical value. In fact, in 1995 the distillery was officially recognised by the US Government and listed on the National Register of Historic Places, culminating in its recognition as a National Historic Landmark in 2000.