KO Distilling Tour — Manassas, Virginia

Discover the KO Distilling Tour in Virginia

Visit KO Distilling in Manassas to explore how award-winning bourbons, ryes, and gins are crafted in a modern, state-of-the-art facility. This guided tour takes guests through the entire distillation process — from grain milling and mashing to fermentation, distillation, and barrel aging — followed by a curated tasting of KO’s signature spirits.

Why it’s special:
KO Distilling combines Virginia-grown grains, traditional distilling methods, and a welcoming, educational atmosphere. Its tasting room and production space offer an up-close look at craft distillation, making it a standout stop in Northern Virginia’s growing spirits scene.

History / Story of KO Distilling

Founded in 2013 by two former Navy officers, KO Distilling began with a vision of creating high-quality small-batch spirits rooted in Virginia tradition. The distillery opened its doors in 2015, quickly gaining acclaim for its Bare Knuckle whiskeys and Battle Standard gins. Located in the heart of Manassas, KO Distilling has become a key part of the region’s craft-beverage community, known for its precision, hospitality, and military heritage.

What You’ll See & Do at the KO Distilling Tour

• Walk through the production floor and learn the step-by-step process of crafting whisky and gin

• See mash tuns, fermenters, and the copper hybrid still in operation

• Explore barrel-aging storage and learn how wood influences flavor

• Discover the stories behind KO’s whiskey and gin lines

• Enjoy a guided tasting of several core and seasonal spirits (21+ with valid ID)

• Visit the retail shop for bottles, merchandise, and distillery-exclusive offerings

Hands-On Elements: Guided tasting, ingredient and aroma exploration, Q&A with distillers.
Photo/Video Policy: Photos allowed in production and tasting areas; avoid flash near active equipment.
Souvenirs & Extras: Bottles, tasting kits, glassware, apparel, cocktail tools, and limited releases.

Pricing of the KO Distilling Tour

Price: $12 per person, including a full guided tour and tasting.

Practical Info for Visiting KO Distilling

Duration: 45–60 minutes
Format: Guided distillery tour with structured tasting
Working Hours (Visitors Center & Tastings):

• Monday: Closed

• Tuesday–Thursday: 12:00 PM – 7:00 PM

• Friday–Saturday: 12:00 PM – 8:00 PM

• Sunday: 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM

Audience: Adults 21+, whiskey fans, gin lovers, groups, Manassas-area visitors
Accessibility: Fully accessible indoor facility
Safety & Restrictions: Tastings for 21+ only; ID required
Languages: English
Group & School Visits: Group tours available with reservation; school groups not permitted
What to Bring/Wear: Closed-toe shoes recommended, valid ID
Facilities: Tasting room, retail shop, restrooms, parking
Closures: Closed Mondays and major holidays

Nearby

• Manassas National Battlefield Park – Civil War history and scenic trails

• Old Town Manassas – Shops, cafés, breweries, and historic buildings

• Heritage Brewing & Local Wineries – Nearby beverage stops to extend your tasting day

FAQs About Visiting KO Distilling

Do I need a reservation for the tour?
Walk-ins are often accepted, but reservations are recommended on weekends.

Are tastings included with the tour?
Yes — your $12 ticket includes multiple spirit samples for guests 21+.

Can I bring children?
Children may accompany adults but cannot participate in tastings.

Is parking available?
Yes — free onsite parking is available.

Do they offer distillery-only releases?
Yes — the retail shop frequently sells special whiskies and gins available only at KO Distilling.