It was probably the best thing that former Sen. Jim “Beanball” Bunning, R-Kentucky, ever did. A resolution he sponsored in 2007 deemed September as National Bourbon Heritage Month, following up on Congress’ declaration in 1964 that bourbon is “America’s Native Spirit.” As if we need more reasons to drink it, but here are a few ways to celebrate the month (and check out more on Barkeep Confessions on page 44). Do note that Bunning’s resolution also reminds us that we who “enjoy bourbon should do so responsibly and in moderation.” Uh, right...
Sept. 8 — Whisky Chicks
The Whisky Chicks, a group for women who love the drink or are curious about it, has planned a visit Sept. 8 to the Kentucky Artisan Distillery for “an exclusive, behind-the-scenes tasting and tour of their gorgeous distillery” in Crestwood. The tour includes cocktails, samples and light appetizers. The event is from 6-8 p.m. with tickets costing $15 per person. Go to whiskychicks.com to sign up.
Sept. 11-12 — St. Vincent de Paul fundraiser
The 13th-Annual Abel Construction Clubs & Cocktails event, St. Vincent de Paul's biggest fundraiser of the year, will feature tons of great bourbon up for grabs, including three bottles of rare Pappy Van Winkle. The fundraiser, at Hurstbourne Country Club features dinner and a silent and live auction, beginning at 6 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 11. Tickets are $50 per person, available at www.svdp2016.gesture.com. And online bidding on silent auction items can be done at www.svdp2016.gesture.com
Sept. 12-18 — Kentucky Bourbon Festival in bardstown
Were you among the some 53,000 bourbon-soaked attendees last year? This year, you have another chance. Go to kybourbonfestival.com to register.
Sept. 29 — Bourbon Taste-Off
Think you know your bourbon? Put your money where your drink hole is. Stave & Thief Society and The Still are hosting “Bourbon Blind” at 7 p.m. Self-professed smarties will be asked to identify four different bourbons by taste and aroma. The grand prize is an “advanced sensory kit” valued at $250. Members of the Stave & Thief Society can enter the contest for $30, and the public price is $50. The Still is located at Four Points by Sheraton, 2850 Crittenden Drive. Go to staveandthief.com/events/ to register.
