Bourbon makes the Kentucky go ‘round. Love it or hate it, bourbon is a huge part of life in the Bluegrass State. From the land it takes to grow the grains to the processing, bottling and warehousing of the state spirit, bourbon is part of the fabric of Kentucky.
September is Bourbon Heritage Month and we thought we’d share a few of our favorite Bourbon drinks and a bit of history about bourbon.
If by some rare chance you are unaware, bourbon is a barrel-aged American-style whiskey made generally from corn. The root of the name is French, however.
Since the 1700s, bourbon has been distilled in the United States, primarily in Kentucky. A common misconception, is that bourbon can only be made in Kentucky. To be called bourbon, the only rule is that the drink be made from at least 51% corn and be stored in a new charred oak barrel.
Elijah Craig, a minister, is credited with the invention of the spirit and its distillation in Kentucky. A man named James C. Crow is credited with the sour mash process, an integral part of the fermentation process.
The history of the legality of bourbon has been up and down through prohibition and world wars. Currently, bourbon accounts for global sales of about $8 billion, and the United States has sold over 31 million 9-liter cases of American-made whiskey. By 2030, the global bourbon market is expected to reach $15 billion.
In short, bourbon isn’t going anywhere and, for Kentucky as one of the leading producers, it’s something we should be and are definitely proud of.
1881 Old Fashioned
Pin & Proof
400 S. 2nd St.
Head to Pin & Proof, the Omni’s speakeasy, for an elegant bourbon cocktail that will transport you back to the prohibition. With sleek bowling lanes in a dimly lit cellar room adorned with brass instruments, victorian mirrors and velvet couches, this prohibition era speakeasy has a sophisticated, moody vibe. They offer great bourbon cocktails made with special reserves, like the 1881 Old Fashioned made with Maker’s Mark private selection, demerara, and house blend bitters.—Sydney Catinna Pin & ProofEagle Rare 10 yr. Single Barrel 90° (Neat)
Bourbon Bistro
2255 Frankfort Ave.
Bourbon Bistro is a favorite spot for a celebration with friends and despite their incredibly extensive list of bourbons, I always come back to a classic. The basic Eagle Rare 10 yr. Is a perfect bottle with a perfect neat pour. It goes well with the heart meals at Bourbon Bistro which are made to be enjoyed with a good drink.—Erica Rucker Adobe StockAle8 Bourbon Slushie
Feast BBQ
900 E. Market St. #100
When two Kentucky classics meet, magic is made! Available all year, the Ale8 Bourbon Slushie from Feast BBQ is a cult classic — cold, creamy, and the perfect contrast to a plate of sticky-sweet Kentucky BBQ. If you want to shake things up, the BBQ joint also has a special “Slushie of the Month” with creative combinations like Chocolate Covered Cherry, Vanilla Cream Slushies, and even non-alcoholic specials like the seasonal Bourbon Street Hurricane Slushie!—Sydney Catinna Sydney CantinnaKing’s Court
Neat Bourbon Bar & Bottle Shop
1139 Bardstown Rd.
The King’s Court hosts a J.T.S. Brown BIB bourbon mixed in with lime juice and cherry juice. As more of a sweet tooth, I can’t get enough of the cherry blend with a sourness of lime mixed neatly together with this Kentucky bourbon as its base.—Caleb Stultz Courtesy of Neat Bourbon Bar & Bottle ShopLocals Only
Neat Bourbon Bar & Bottle Shop
1139 Bardstown Rd.
If you’re from the area, there’s one drink you have to have, and it’s called the Locals Only for a reason. Another J.T.S. bourbon, the Brown BiB Bourbon mixes in Sea Legs with lemon, strawberry, tea and an Ale-8-One to give you the kick you need while sending each sip down smoothly. —Caleb Stultz Courtesy of Neat Bourbon Bar & Bottle ShopElijah Craig Small Batch
Tartan House
1027 E. Main St.
I prefer this drink with a splash but Tartan House serves it with a big rock, and the splash. Nevertheless, sipping one of my favorite inexpensive bourbon sips in the coziness of Tartan House’s classy speakeasy vibe with friends is the best way to relax on a weekend night or after a busy day of work.—Erica Rucker Erica Rucker
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