Templeton Rye Distillery Tour — Templeton, Iowa

Discover the Templeton Rye Distillery Tour in Iowa

Located in Templeton, Iowa, the Templeton Rye Distillery Tour invites visitors into the hometown of one of America’s most storied rye whiskey brands. This guided Distillery Tour explores how Templeton Rye is distilled, aged, and bottled using locally sourced grains and time-honored techniques inspired by Prohibition-era recipes. Guests tour the modern distillery, learn about rye whiskey production, and finish with a guided tasting of Templeton expressions.
Why it’s special: Templeton Rye uniquely blends Midwestern agricultural roots with legendary Prohibition history, offering a true grain-to-glass whiskey experience in the small town where the brand began.

History & Story of Templeton Rye

Templeton Rye traces its origins to the Prohibition era, when Templeton gained a reputation for producing high-quality rye whiskey that was quietly distributed beyond Iowa. Revived in the 21st century, the brand returned production to Templeton with the opening of its own distillery, emphasizing transparency, local sourcing, and authenticity. Today, Templeton Rye stands as a symbol of Iowa’s role in American whiskey history.

What You’ll See & Do on the Templeton Rye Distillery Tour

• Tour the working distillery and learn how rye whiskey is produced

• See fermentation tanks, copper stills, and barrel aging areas

• Learn how rye grain influences flavor and spice

• Understand the aging and bottling process

• Enjoy a guided tasting of Templeton Rye whiskeys

Hands-On Elements: Guided whiskey tasting with detailed flavor and production explanations.
Photo/Video Policy: Photography allowed in designated areas; restricted in some production zones.
Souvenirs & Extras: Distillery gift shop offering bottled whiskey, branded glassware, apparel, and exclusive releases.

Pricing of the Templeton Rye Distillery Tour

Adult price: $15 per adult
Includes guided distillery tour and whiskey tasting. Participants must be 21+.

Visiting information

Duration: 60–75 minutes
Age limits: 21+ only
Accessibility: Public areas accessible; limited access in production spaces
Working hours: Visitor Center open Monday–Saturday 10:00 AM–5:00 PM; Sunday Closed. Guided tours offered Monday–Saturday at 11:00 AM, 1:00 PM, and 3:00 PM.

Nearby

• Templeton Historic Downtown

• Audubon County Fairgrounds

• Carroll, Iowa dining and attractions (short drive)

FAQs About Visiting the Templeton Rye Distillery Tour

Is this where Templeton Rye is actually distilled?
Yes. The Templeton distillery produces and ages rye whiskey on site using locally sourced grain.

Do I need to book the tour in advance?
Advance booking is strongly recommended, especially on weekends, as tours often sell out.

Are tastings included in the tour?
Yes. Each tour concludes with a guided tasting of select Templeton Rye whiskeys.

Can non-drinkers attend the tour?
All participants must be 21+; non-drinkers may attend but tastings are optional.

Can I purchase bottles at the distillery?
Yes. The on-site shop sells core expressions, limited releases, and branded merchandise.