When most people think of Bullitt County Kentucky and alcohol, they think of bourbon (or possibly moonshine).  Certainly, the Beam family has made a lasting impression on the area.  But Mike Hatzell is trying to prove that Bullitt County can produce a drink for the for refined palette as well.  Based on his recent successes, Mike is well on his way to accomplishing that task. 

A former attorney and long-time amateur wine-maker, Hatzell turned pro when he and his wife purchased 30 acres in Brooks a few years ago.  The Hatzell's and winemaker Butch Meyer combined vision with hard-work and dedication and now have a working winery.  Brooks Hill Winery, aka The Little Winery on the Hill, is already building a strong reputation.   During an international competition in Florida, a Cabernet-Sauvignon entry took the bronze medal.  This same offering also won the silver medal at Derby Festival. 

The setup at Brooks Hill Winery is friendly and inviting.  They have a tasting area where you can sample wines while Mike himself explains the intricacies of the selection.  The covered patio behind the winery provides an excellent location to drink, converse, and admire the vineyards.   

You are welcome to bring lunch or dinner, sit on the patio, and enjoy one of their great selections with your meal.  If you in the mood for something light, Brooks Hill Winery also has a selection of cheeses and Mike will certainly recommend something to compliment your choice of wine.  

To get to Brooks Hill Winery, take the Brooks Road exit off of I-65 and head west at the top of the ramp.  The winery is 2 miles ahead on the right.

Hours of Operation:  M-F 1p-7p;  Sat 10:30a-7p; Sun-Closed

For more information on Brooks Hill Winery, visit their website.

For more information on Bullitt County, contact me.

Copyright© 2008, By Erik Hitzelberger, All rights reserved *Profiles of Bullitt County: Brooks Hill Winery*

If you are looking for Things to Do in Bullitt County, I strongly suggest that you spend a day in Bernheim Forest. Actually, there is so much to do and see in Bernheim Forest that one day isn't sufficient. You could spend weeks enjoying the scenary, cycling, hiking, fishing, picnicing, and learning. At $5 per car on the weekends it is a great place to take your family and spend quality time together. (It is FREE during the week).

When is the last time that your children got to see deer, rabbits, geese, and hundreds of other animals in the wild. For that matter, when was the last time YOU saw animals in the wild.  With over 14,000 acres of protected lands to explore, you have to try very hard to not see animals in their native habitats. 

If you are feeling adventurous, Berheim has over a dozen hiking trails ranging from 0.5 miles to 14 miles. Additionally, the 34 miles of cycling trails will challenge even the most ardent riders. If you are looking for a little less rigorous activity, throw a line in at Nevin Lake and see what you can reel in.

Just want to sit and relax? No problem. There are benches located throughout where you can watch children play, enjoy nature, or simply lose yourself in your own thoughts.  The picnic areas (with grills) spread around the park offer a great place for family reunions, cookouts with friends, or even Sunday afternoon lunch. Regardless of who are are with, you will be able to sit and enjoy fellowship without the distractions of everyday life.

Berheim Forest also offers activities such as the ECO Kids program and Forest Flicks.  The Education Gallery hosts art exhibits.  Truly, there is something for everyone.  For more information about this Bullitt County treasure, visit www.berheim.org.

Directions: Take I-65 to Exit 112 (Clermont / Lebanon Junction). Head East at the top of the ramp. Bernheim is less than 1 mile ahead on the right.

If you are relocating to Bullitt County, you may think that you will have to go into Louisville to find entertainment for your kids or yourselves.  There certainly are many things to do in Louisville, but there are plenty of attractions and activities in Shepherdsville, Mt. Washington, Brooks, and Lebanon Junction.  Bullitt County is steeped in history and rich in culture.  Here are a few places that you should check out.  

Festivals / Annual Events- From Kid's Fest to the annual Bridal Show to the Demolition Derby, Bullitt County offer activities at least once a month.  For more information, click here. 

Bernheim Arboretum and Research Forest- A great place to spend time with your family, get some exercise on their hiking and biking trails, or learn more about birds, plants, and the environment.  Bernheim also offers special events and classes designed to educate kids, adults, and families. Access is free M-F and $5.00 per car on the weekends. Take 1-65 south to Exit 112, turn left onto SR-245 and drive about 1 mile.  See Also: Spend A Day in Bernheim or Berheim in the Fall

Just past Berheim Forest is the Jim Beam American Outpost- Take a self-guided tour through the distillery and learn about the 200 year history of this legendary bourbon-maker. Tours are available for free 7 days a week. For more information, call 502-543-9877. 

If wine is more of your style, be sure to visit the Brooks Hill Winery - Open M-f from 1-7 and Sat from 10:20-7. Call 502-957-7810 for more information.  

Kart Kountry- You can spend more time behind the wheel at Kart Kountry than you do going to the 'Longest Go-Kart Track in the World." With five sizes and speeds of go-karts, the 1.5 mile road course is challenging and exciting for kids of all ages. Kart Kountry also has mini-golf, batting cages, bumperboats, and an arcade. The complex is located in Shepherdsville just off of I-65 at Exit 117.

Skate-O-Rama - Conveniently located beside Freedom Elementary School on Preston Highway in North Bullitt County, Skate-O-Rama has an indoor skating rink that is open year-round. The facilities are available for birthday parties and other events. Call 502-957-5897 to make reservations or for more information.


Zappos- Shop at the Fulfillment Center! The Zappos Distribution center is located in Shepherdsville just off of I-65 at Exit 116.

________________________________________________________________________________________________________

* * * * *

Erik Hitzelberger is a licensed real estate agent with RE/MAX Alliance in Louisville. If you need a Bullitt County Real Estate agent please email me or call 502.921.3989.

I specialize in the following areas of the Metro Louisville Area: Jeffersontown (J-Town), Okolona, Fern Creek, Shepherdsville, Mt Washington, Hillview, Brooks and Pewee Valley.  Click the following links to learn more about Louisville and Bullitt County Real Estate or to Search the Metro Louisville MLS.