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KRM's Uncorked Express Wine & Cheese Train

Kentucky Wine Tasting Train Rides At KRM

Published: August 5, 2026

Savoring the Rails: The Kentucky Railway Museum's Uncorked Express Wine & Cheese Train

Imagine boarding a vintage train car on a sunny Saturday afternoon, settling into comfortable seats as the rhythmic clickety-clack of the rails begins. Outside your window, the rolling bluegrass hills and the scenic Rolling Fork River Valley unfold. Inside, you're treated to curated tastings of Kentucky wines paired with artisanal local cheeses and chocolates, all while learning expert pairing tips.

This is the Uncorked Express Wine & Cheese Train at the Kentucky Railway Museum (KRM) in New Haven, Kentucky—a perfect outing for a date night, girls' day out, or gathering with friends who appreciate good wine, good company, and a touch of railroad history.

The KRM has become a beloved destination for railfans and casual visitors alike, offering not only a rich collection of preserved equipment but also a variety of themed excursions that bring the romance of rail travel to life. Among its most popular special events is the Uncorked Express, a limited-seating experience that combines the museum's heritage operations with the best of Kentucky's burgeoning craft beverage and food scene.

Louisville & Nashville 4-6-2 #152 (Class K-1) leads a KRM excursion to Lexington, Kentucky in October, 1985.

The Kentucky Railway Museum: Preserving Rail Heritage in the Bluegrass State

Founded in 1954 by a group of dedicated railroad enthusiasts, the Kentucky Railway Museum received its charter from the Kentucky General Assembly with a mission to preserve steam locomotives and other rail artifacts for future generations. Early donations from the Monon Railroad and the Louisville & Nashville (L&N) Railroad included the iconic L&N #152, a 4-6-2 Pacific steam locomotive built in 1905 by the Rogers Locomotive Works. This engine would later be designated Kentucky's official state steam locomotive in 2000.

The museum's journey has involved several moves. It first opened to the public in 1958 on a site along Louisville's River Road. Flooding from the Ohio River and space constraints prompted a relocation in 1977 to Ormsby Station in Jefferson County. In 1990, the museum found its permanent home in New Haven, Kentucky (southern Nelson County), thanks to land donated by local businessmen Lewis and Chester Simms and their wives. The current 8-acre site features a faithful replica of the historic 1910 L&N depot serving as the visitor center and includes a large HO-scale model train diorama depicting various rail scenes.

Today, the museum operates as a living heritage railroad on the last remaining segment of the historic L&N Lebanon Branch (also known as the line toward Boston). This trackage, originally built in the mid-19th century, played a strategic role during the Civil War and was later targeted by Confederate raider John Hunt Morgan. Excursion trains depart from New Haven and travel approximately 22 miles round-trip through the picturesque Rolling Fork River Valley, crossing numerous roads and offering passengers sweeping views of Kentucky countryside, farmland, and river scenery. Rides typically last about 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on the specific excursion.

The museum's collection is impressive: four steam locomotives (including L&N #152, currently undergoing restoration, and Chesapeake & Ohio #2716 on long-term lease elsewhere), a dozen or more diesel locomotives (several operational, such as L&N GP7 #411 and CSX SW1500 #1103), and over 100 pieces of rolling stock. Four items are listed on the National Register of Historic Places, including the L&N #152 and a rare combine car with a fascinating Jim Crow-era history. Visitors can explore indoor exhibits featuring artifacts and the expansive model railroad layout, stroll outdoor displays of locomotives and cars (some open for interior tours), and browse the well-stocked gift shop.

As a non-profit organization, the Kentucky Railway Museum relies heavily on volunteers for everything from restoration work in the shops to serving as conductors, engineers, and event staff. Ongoing projects keep historic equipment running and educate the public about Kentucky's vital railroad past.

All Aboard the Uncorked Express

The Uncorked Express stands out as one of the museum's signature adult-oriented experiences. Limited to just 44 tickets per departure to ensure an intimate atmosphere, this event sells out quickly and is designed for those 21 and older (photo ID required; strict carding per Kentucky law). No outside alcohol is permitted.

What To Expect

The experience begins around 12:30 p.m. with a tasting and pairing session. Guests learn how to expertly pair wines with locally made cheeses and chocolates. Kentucky's craft scene shines here: participating wineries such as Forest Edge Winery (for July and September dates) and Purple Toad Winery (November date) provide selections, while artisanal cheeses from makers like Kenny's Cheese and others complement the pours. Charcuterie elements—crackers, fruit, and more—round out the offerings, with chocolate for a sweet finish. Additional libations are available for purchase onboard.

After the educational and flavorful kickoff, passengers board a climate-controlled 1940s-era train car for the scenic rail journey through the countryside. The relaxed pace allows ample time to sip, savor, chat with fellow passengers, and enjoy the ever-changing views. A knowledgeable and often entertaining conductor enhances the trip with stories about the line, the equipment, and local history. Many guests describe the atmosphere as fun, memorable, and perfect for special occasions.

Ticket inclusions typically feature:

- The full train excursion
- Wine, cheese, and chocolate tastings with pairing guidance
- Charcuterie box or bites
- A souvenir wine glass to take home

A "Sip and Ride" option around 2:00–3:00 p.m. may also be available for those wanting to purchase a bottle and enjoy the rails. Total duration is approximately 2.5 hours. Pricing is in the range of $50 per adult (confirm current rates and exact inclusions when booking, as they can vary slightly by date).

2026 Schedule Highlights

- July 18: Partnering with Forest Edge Winery
- September 19: Partnering with Forest Edge Winery
- November 14: Partnering with Purple Toad Winery

Check the official website for any additional dates, updates, or last-minute additions, as popular events like this often expand. This is not your average wine tasting or train ride—it's a thoughtfully curated fusion of both, set against the authentic backdrop of operating historic railroading.

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Kentucky Wine Tasting Train Rides At KRM

The Kentucky Railway Museum: Preserving Rail Heritage in the Bluegrass State

Subscribe To American Rails!

All Aboard the Uncorked Express

What To Expect

Ticket inclusions typically feature: