Yes, Kentucky Invented Bourbon Balls and You Can Still Visit the Factory That Makes Them

Growing up in a home free of alcohol, I would freak out whenever we would happen into a gathering where it was being served, and people were actually drinking it, heaven forbid.

My great-aunt, who loved her cocktails, would invite us to her hotel room when she'd visit. There would be lots of people and lots of booze. My mom was a nurse and would get invited to shindigs at doctors' homes where the bar was usually open. Mom and Dad informed me, during those occasions and others, that I didn't have to be appalled at adults who were imbibing. (Before we go on, I don't feel this way at all anymore.)

Bourbon Balls

That "fear" of spirits extended to bourbon balls. Yes, I know, it's candy. Still, it had bourbon in it. What were they thinking? Nowadays, I know the answer, and it's "Because bourbon balls are really, really good."

Tour the Kentucky Factory Where Bourbon Balls Were Invented

And they may not get any better than the place where they were invented and still fly out the doors today. That would be the Rebecca Ruth Candy Factory & Museum.

Rebecca Ruth Chocolates is likely in its "sweet" spot right now. Christmas and candy go hand in hand, and this is one of the best locations to satisfy that sweet tooth and the sweet teeth of those on your Christmas list.

But yes, this is the place where an icon of the candy world was born. If you or anyone you know has a bourbon ball recipe, it's because of Rebecca Ruth; we wouldn't know of their existence without her.

Rebecca Ruth's Candy Factory

They look amazing, don't they? Well, they taste even better. And, if you're in Frankfort, you really should stop in. But I think you'd be making a mistake if you left with just bourbon balls, considering all the other magnificent morsels Rebecca Ruth's turns out.

Tours occur Monday through Saturday and last about 30 minutes. If you go any day Monday through Thursday, the factory will be in operation, but a Friday or Saturday visit will be just as rewarding.

'Tis the season...for bourbon balls. Sounds like a trip to where they were invented is in order.