Bourbon & Banter has sponsored this whiskey festival since its start and will once again attend this year. It’s a top-notch event that’s the perfect way to DrinkCurious.
Bourbon & Banter has sponsored this whiskey festival since its start and will once again attend this year. It's a top-notch event that's the perfect way to DrinkCurious.
Tickets go on sale on Wednesday, October 30, 2024, at 11 AM CT. Make sure to set your alarms, as this event sells out fast!
Seriously, folks. 10-30 mins tops, and all the tickets are gone.
If you’re looking to attend one of the most unique formats for a bourbon festival, we highly recommend you start making plans to attend next year’s event. And who knows, we may just partner with the organizers for something special for all of our community members next year.
Last week, Bob and I polished our bald heads, styled our beards, and made the trek down to the St. Louis Bourbon Festival. This was the first time we had attended this festival, so we decided to document everything on video for posterity and evidence in case we needed bail money.
I'm happy to report that we avoided skirmishes with the bourbon police and had a great time sipping bourbon and making new friends. Here's a recap video of our antics and thoughts on this year's festival. (Yes, I know it's long, but it's a helluva lot shorter than posting all the footage which was the other option. I'm happy to take video editor referrals for those who accept bourbon payments.)
2024 St. Louis Bourbon Festival Recap
If you're looking to attend one of the most unique formats for a bourbon festival, we highly recommend you start making plans to attend next year's event. And who knows, we may just partner with the organizers for something special for all of our community members next year. See you there!
Get ready Windy City whiskey enthusiasts… The Bourbon Bonanza is coming. A charity event, The Bourbon Bonanza Benefit is coming to Chicago for the first time. It all happens on Sunday, September 8, from 3 p.m. until 7 p.m. What is the Bourbon Bonanza? Originating in 2015, the Bourbon Bonanza offers patrons with elite food […]
Get ready Windy City whiskey enthusiasts… The Bourbon Bonanza is coming.
A charity event, The Bourbon Bonanza Benefit is coming to Chicago for the first time. It all happens on Sunday, September 8, from 3 p.m. until 7 p.m.
What is the Bourbon Bonanza?
Originating in 2015, the Bourbon Bonanza offers patrons with elite food and whiskey options, with all of the proceeds going to charity. The event first was hosted in Bardstown, Kentucky, then made the move to Seattle in 2022. The 2023 Bonanza in Seattle raised more than $310,000 for four different charity organizations.at Bottom Lounge, located at 1375 West Lake Street.
Mike Miller and Delilah’s are hosting this year’s event. Miller owns Delilah’s, which has become a fixture in Chicago since opening in 1993. The establishment has more than 1,000 combined varieties of beers and spirits available.
What to expect at the Bourbon Bonanza?
Each year the Bourbon Bonanza offers some hard-to-find barrels and bottles and 2024 is no different. Five unique, rare Willett Family Estate barrels have been chosen for the 2024 Bonanza in Chicago. The showcase whiskey for this year is a 12-year-old Willett Family Estates bourbon. Participating establishments also offer some of their favorite whiskies for tasting. Delilah’s will offer options, as will Jack Rose Dining Saloon located in Washington, D.C., and The Ballard Cut in Seattle.
Looking to pair some fabulous food with your preferred whiskey or bourbon? We’ve got you covered. Chef Newman Miller, the co-owner of Mr. Tub’s in Bardstown, will travel up from Kentucky and provide his culinary services to lead the food options that will be available for this event. In addition, James Beard award winner, Chef Paul Kahan and One Off Hospitality Group are partnering with the Bourbon Bonanza this year as part of the proceeds will go to support Pilot Light, a charity that helps bridge the gap between food, wellness and community.
How you can join us?
The 2024 Bourbon Bonanza takes place on Sunday, September 8, from Bottom Lounge, located in the West Loop area of Chicago. The event is scheduled from 3-7 p.m., with an after party at a location to follow. General admission tickets are $350 and include access to our 12-year-old WFE bourbon, while supplies last. There will be a maximum of 100 bottles made available for this event. You can purchase your own bottle for $500. And, again, all money raised goes to charity.Both ticket types areavailable online.
Follow @thebourbonbonanza on Instagram to keep up with all the latest news and updates on the 2024 Bourbon Bonanza in Chicago.
An event with the high powered hospitality forces of Lexington’s (KY) The Manchester and Angel’s Envy?! Talk about a match made in heaven. This is something you’ll definitely want to check out and partake. A long weekend escape in Bourbon Country is beckoning! The Manchester is a gorgeous hotel with a world class restaurant (Granddam) […]
An event with the high powered hospitality forces of Lexington’s (KY) The Manchester and Angel’s Envy?! Talk about a match made in heaven. This is something you’ll definitely want to check out and partake. A long weekend escape in Bourbon Country is beckoning!
The Manchester is a gorgeous hotel with a world class restaurant (Granddam) and rooftop bar (Lost Palm) nestled cozily just a few minutes from downtown Lexington. The property was recently selected in the “WORLD’S GREATEST PLACES 2024” by Time Inc. Angel’s Envy needs no introduction. The evening boasts the opportunity to learn and mingle with the sensory master minds Owen Martin (AE Master Distillery, Angel Teta (AE Global Head of Education, and how fitting is her first name, really??), and Granddam Chef Paula Endara.
Event Details
DATE: Thursday, Aug 8th, 7pm ET
LOCATION: Granddam (941 Manchester St, Lexington, KY 40508)
SPECIAL PRESENTERS: Granddam Chef Paula Endara/Angel’s Envy Master Distiller, Owen Martin/Angel’s Envy Global Head of Education, Angel Teta.
THE EXPERIENCE: Enjoy a welcome cocktail followed by a four course dinner. The first three courses will be paired with Angel’s Envy cocktails and the fourth course will be paired with a neat pour. The evening ends with a grand finale toast — something very special selected for this dinner. *Twenty-one & up. *Deadline to cancel is 48 hrs prior to event start time.
Tickets are live for the 2025 Bourbon Classic, Feb 21 – 22 (Fri and Sat) in Louisville, KY. Classic is an interactive multi-day event, combining the best of the culinary, cocktail, and Bourbon arts. Event Highlights The annual event (est. 20213) celebrates the rich heritage and craftsmanship of bourbon, America’s only distinct spirit. Held in […]
Tickets are live for the 2025 Bourbon Classic, Feb 21 – 22 (Fri and Sat) in Louisville, KY.
Classic is an interactive multi-day event, combining the best of the culinary, cocktail, and Bourbon arts.
Event Highlights
Cocktail and Culinary Challenge (Friday, Feb. 21) — Top talent bartenders and chefs work harmoniously in creating Bourbon cocktails and Bourbon inspired small plates. All competing to see who’s the best of the best in Bourbon Country hospitality.
Bourbon University (Saturday, Feb. 22) — Industry experts lead discussions, demonstrations, and tastings. 2024 BU included country hams and Bourbon pairings from Jim Beam’s Fred and Freddie Noe (father/son duo), artisanal chocolate and whiskey pairings, and more.
TASTE (Saturday, Feb. ) — The grand finale features tastings from an array of Bourbon brands, food pairings from featured restaurants and bourbon-inspired products.
Early Entry for VIP – VIP ticket holders will get early access to the Amber Lounge, allowing them to get the jump on exploring the VIP tastings and experiences before doors open to the main event.
The annual event (est. 20213) celebrates the rich heritage and craftsmanship of bourbon, America’s only distinct spirit. Held in the heart of bourbon country, Bourbon Classic brings together bourbon enthusiasts, industry professionals, and connoisseurs from around the world for a unique and immersive experience.
At the Bourbon Classic, attendees have the opportunity to indulge in tastings of rare and limited-edition bourbons, as well as signature cocktails crafted by some of the most talented bartenders in the industry. Educational seminars and workshops provide insights into bourbon production, history, and tasting techniques, allowing guests to deepen their appreciation and knowledge of this iconic spirit.
One of the highlights of the Bourbon Classic is the culinary aspect, where top chefs from Kentucky and beyond showcase their talents with bourbon-inspired dishes that perfectly complement the flavors of the spirit. From bourbon-infused sauces to decadent desserts, the food offerings at the Bourbon Classic are sure to delight even the most discerning palate.
Whether you’re a seasoned bourbon aficionado or just beginning to explore the world of whiskey, the Bourbon Classic offers something for everyone to enjoy.
Classic is a must-attend event for anyone who appreciates bourbon and the culture surrounding it. With its combination of tastings, seminars, culinary experiences, and entertainment, the Bourbon Classic showcases the best of what bourbon country has to offer, making it an unforgettable experience for all who attend.
Bardstown Bourbon Co is certainly a must stop in Bourbon Country. They take hospitality seriously and it shows. Tonight, June 7th, as part of their Summertime Patio Series, they are welcoming special Guest Chef Samantha Fore, a recent James Beard Finalist. Incredibly talented chef based in Lexington, KY who’s restaurant Tuk Tuk Snack Shop is […]
Bardstown Bourbon Co is certainly a must stop in Bourbon Country. They take hospitality seriously and it shows.
Tonight, June 7th, as part of their Summertime Patio Series, they are welcoming special Guest Chef Samantha Fore, a recent James Beard Finalist. Incredibly talented chef based in Lexington, KY who’s restaurant Tuk Tuk Snack Shop is another must when in Bourbon Country. And also part of the special eve is celebrating the launch of BBCo’s recent Amrut Collaborative Series.
No reservations needed. 5 – 9pm.
EVENT DESCRIPTION (BBCo Facebook Page): Don’t miss our next Summer Patio Series event this Friday! We’re teaming up with 2023 James Beard Finalist Samantha Fore from Tuk Tuk Snack Shop to bring you an unforgettable evening of South Asian-inspired bites paired with refreshing summer cocktails celebrating our latest Collaborative Series release with Amrut Distillery.
Bardstown is rich in historical attractions, and one of those gems is My Old Kentucky Home State Park, which invites you to step back in time and experience the rich cultural heritage of the region. The park is renowned for its stunning Federal Hill mansion, a grand estate that inspired Stephen Foster’s famous song, “My […]
Bardstown is rich in historical attractions, and one of those gems is My Old Kentucky Home State Park, which invites you to step back in time and experience the rich cultural heritage of the region. The park is renowned for its stunning Federal Hill mansion, a grand estate that inspired Stephen Foster’s famous song, “My Old Kentucky Home.” With its beautifully preserved architecture and lush, scenic grounds, the park offers a captivating glimpse into Kentucky’s antebellum past.
One of the park’s standout attractions is The Stephen Foster Story, an entertaining outdoor musical that brings the local icon’s life and music to the stage. For decades, this performance has been a summer tradition, thrilling audiences with its engaging storytelling and timeless melodies. Beyond the musical, the park boasts a variety of activities that make it a perfect destination for history buffs and nature lovers alike.
Before you start making your plans in Bardstown, you’ll want to secure your lodging. As its name suggests, Bourbon Manor B&B is a dream destination for bourbon enthusiasts, celebrating the spirit every day of the year. This award-winning, historic bed and breakfast features ten spacious, antique-appointed, and bourbon-themed guest rooms. Centrally located in Bardstown, Kentucky, it’s the perfect lodging for enjoying distillery tours and tastings, historical sites, and outdoor adventures at My Old Kentucky Home! Book your room today and start planning.
My Old Kentucky Home State Park & The Stephen Foster Story
Why add My Old Kentucky Home State Park to your itinerary? The park not only celebrates Kentucky’s historical and musical heritage but also offers an array of activities that ensure a memorable visit. From touring the elegant mansion to enjoying recreational opportunities, there’s something for everyone at this historic site.
Here are five things you absolutely must do when visiting:
Watch the Stephen Foster Story: There’s something magical about watching this classic musical under the open stars on warm summer evenings in Bardstown. There’s no better way to celebrate Stephen Foster’s life and works than in this beautiful amphitheater setting surrounded by lush trees. The show included more than 50 of this local icon’s musical works.
Tour the Federal Hill Mansion: Take a guided tour of this centuries-old historic estate, with its stunning architecture, antique furnishings, and rich history. The tour promises “stories of deadly duels, horse racing, fortune, fame, and demise.” You can buy your tickets in advance, here.
Explore the Gardens: After you’ve seen inside the mansion, be sure to take time to explore the curated gardens and grounds of My Old Kentucky Home State Park. There are plenty of pretty places to sit and relax or even have a picnic, as well as scenic trails to get your steps in.
Take a Class or Bourbon Tasting: The park offers a list of fun events and classes, including culinary and mixology classes, guided bourbon tastings, and Murder Mystery dinners. These events are popular and often sell out, so it’s best to plan ahead.
Hit the Links: Known as one of the best golf courses in Kentucky, this 18-hole PGA professional course is a great stop for any golfer. The course was first opened in 1933 and continues to offer a challenging round.
Adding My Old Kentucky Home State Park to your Bardstown adventure promises a blend of history, culture, and recreation, making it an essential stop on your Kentucky travels. It’s the perfect outing to break up your tastings and tours at the local Bardstown distilleries, and it’s bound to be a memorable part of your vacation.
For those interested in exploring the history of this area at My Old Kentucky Home State Park and watching The Stephen Foster Story come to life on stage, you’ll also absolutely love making our Bardstown bed and breakfast your home away from home. The historical significance of our mansion is apparent in the ancient bricks and architecture, making your stay all the more memorable and unique.
We offer ten luxurious and spacious guest rooms, each appointed with antiques and modern amenities. You’ll love the combination of the past and today’s needed comfort elements. Sit back and enjoy your favorite show together in a big, comfortable four-poster bed, or open a bottle of wine and sip by the warm glow of the electric fire. In the mornings, we invite you to join us in our elegant dining room for the delicious fare of Southern breakfast classes.
As one of the top-rated bed and breakfasts in Kentucky, you’ll we welcomed warmly by our dedicated service professionals with a smile. We take pride in our hospitality, and you’ll quickly feel more like family—we have many guests that we see year after year for annual celebrations, and this is always a big boost. Start planning your next getaway to Bardstown and book your lodging today!
The Lexington Bourbon Society (KY) is throwing their largest annual fundraiser on June 15th. The “Commonwealth Bash” celebrates the birth month of Kentucky as benefits will go towards the Henry Clay Memorial Foundation. The evening will include Bourbon tastings from some terrific producers. A live and silent auction will also be taking place. Clay is […]
The Lexington Bourbon Society (KY) is throwing their largest annual fundraiser on June 15th. The “Commonwealth Bash” celebrates the birth month of Kentucky as benefits will go towards the Henry Clay Memorial Foundation. The evening will include Bourbon tastings from some terrific producers. A live and silent auction will also be taking place.
Clay is certainly a Kentucky legend as a horseman, statesman, and deep admirer of Kentucky’s beloved Bourbon. He’s in the books for his penchant for Mint Juleps as it was also said he would bring an entire full barrel of Bourbon with him to D.C. to “lubricate the wheels of government”. We can certainly get behind that. The estate is beautiful and equally historic. Throw some nice Bourbon in the mix, sounds like a pretty awesome evening to us!
Seven distilleries. Seven exclusive bourbons. One collection. With 11 unique distillery experiences within 16 miles, Bardstown stands tall as the Bourbon Capital of The World. A newer annual tradition, the Kentucky town’s vibrant distilling community joins together to release a one-of-a-kind bourbon series — The Bardstown Collection. The Collection’s grand unveiling, which expanded to seven […]
Seven distilleries. Seven exclusive bourbons. One collection. With 11 unique distillery experiences within 16 miles, Bardstown stands tall as the Bourbon Capital of The World. A newer annual tradition, the Kentucky town’s vibrant distilling community joins together to release a one-of-a-kind bourbon series — The Bardstown Collection. The Collection’s grand unveiling, which expanded to seven participating distilleries this year, will take place during the first annual National Bourbon Week, June 11-16, 2024, a celebration of the rich heritage and craftsmanship behind America’s native spirit.
In a true display of craftsmanship and camaraderie, the seven participating Bardstown distilleries are set to release a hand-selected, premium bourbon available exclusively on-site as part of The Bardstown Collection. With less than 500 bottles available from each distillery, the Collection 2024 promises to be an elite affair, marking it as must-do bourbon extravaganza. These limited-edition bottles are not just rare; they’re a testament to the artistry and passion that define Bardstown’s bourbon scene.
How To Be The First To Taste All 7 Samples
For a taste of this exclusive bottled collection, visitors can purchase tickets for The Bardstown Collection Release Party, taking place at My Old Kentucky Home on June 11 or visit each of the participating distilleries during the release dates.
“In Bardstown, bourbon isn’t just a drink; it’s a way of life,” said Jeff Crowe, Chairman of Bardstown Tourism. “The Bardstown Collection 2024 is a testament to the traditions and dedication that define our town as the heart of bourbon culture. The attention to detail, level of craftsmanship, and most importantly, superlative flavor profiles are why we say that Bourbon Comes From Bardstown.”
Jeff Crowe, Chairman of Bardstown Tourism, Heaven Hill Experiences Director (KY). Courtesy
Preservation Distillery + Farms (June 12, 9 a.m.): Preservation Distillery and Farm is excited to release a cask-strength blend of their own wheated pot distilled Kentucky Bourbon, layered with liquid from some of their most precious vintage Kentucky Bourbon casks.
Heaven Hill Distillery (June 12, 12 p.m.): Heaven Hill’s 2024 Bardstown Collection release consists of three carefully blended barrels aged between 7 and 16 years. The bourbon is bottled at 105 proof and consists of Heaven Hill’s traditional bourbon mashbill of 78% corn, 10% rye and 12% malted barley. The extra aged nature of the bourbon results in aromas of spice, leather and toasted oak with notes of cinnamon spiced apples, nutmeg and caramel on the palate.
Lux Row Distillers (June 13, 9 a.m.): Lux Row Distillers’ contribution will feature three single barrels from their wheat recipe (68% corn, 20% wheat, 12% malted barley). Aged six years, these barrels went through an additional toasted finishing process with toasted caramel honey staves for a rich, full-bodied finish.
Limestone Branch Distillery (June 13, 12 p.m.): With a mash bill that dates back to the 1930s, Limestone Branch’s Bardstown 2024 selection is a six-year-old, 100% pot-distilled wheated bourbon, made with 28% red winter wheat, which produces an exceptionally approachable yet complex whiskey.
Log Still Distillery (June 13, 3 p.m.): Log Still’s 2024 Bardstown Collection release is a 9-year-old Kentucky High-Rye Bourbon that evenly blends aromas of sweet caramel with lingering earthy scents of smoke and oak. On the palate, bourbon lovers will enjoy a burst of full-flavored spices blended with mild sweetness of honey, providing a warm, smooth finish.
Bardstown Bourbon Company (June 14, 9 a.m.): Blending innovation with classic Kentucky flavor, Bardstown Bourbon Company’s offering to the Collection this year is a layered, complex balance of ripe cherry with toasted oak leads to cinnamon, maple, and spearmint.
James B. Beam Distilling Co. (June 14, 12 p.m.): Aged for close to 20 years, James B. Beam Distilling Co.’s Bardstown Collection 2024 selection is the oldest whiskey that the iconic brand has ever released. Delivering intense flavors of oak, vanilla and sweet smoke, it’s sure to be a fan favorite.
Throughout National Bourbon Week, attendees can partake in a range of festivities including special distillery events, curated tastings, unique bourbon education opportunities and the 21st Annual Bourbon City Street Concert. This comprehensive series of experiences is crafted to offer bourbon enthusiasts an unparalleled immersion in the Bourbon Capital of the World.
About Bardstown: Located in the heart of the Bluegrass State, Bardstown offers the ultimate bourbon getaway. With 11 unique distilleries within 16 miles of court square, all your bourbon dreams can come true here in Bardstown, the Bourbon Capital of The World. Settled in 1780, Bardstown is Kentucky’s second-oldest city so come see us for our unrivaled history. Throughout Nelson County, there are more than 300 buildings on the National Register of Historic Places, with nearly 200 of them located in the historic downtown district. Here in Bardstown, you’ll find the friendly attitude and Southern charm that can only be found in such a town. For more information, go to www.VisitBardstown.com.
Big things are afoot in Bourbon Country!…The historic town of Bardstown, aka the Bourbon Capital of the World, in partnership with the Bourbon Capital Alliance is putting on the first ever annual National Bourbon Week, June 11-16, 2024. Taking place across acclaimed distilleries, famed attractions and Bardstown’s thriving downtown, this immersive series of events celebrates […]
Big things are afoot in Bourbon Country!…The historic town of Bardstown, aka the Bourbon Capital of the World, in partnership with the Bourbon Capital Alliance is putting on the first ever annual National Bourbon Week, June 11-16, 2024.
Taking place across acclaimed distilleries, famed attractions and Bardstown’s thriving downtown, this immersive series of events celebrates the rich heritage and craftsmanship behind America’s native spirit. National Bourbon Week marks the beginning of an annual Bardstown tradition, inviting enthusiasts, connoisseurs and curious newcomers to enjoy tastings and festivities that pay homage to the iconic amber elixir.
The focal point of National Bourbon Week will be the unveiling of the highly anticipated 2024 Bardstown Collection, a rare collaboration between seven distinguished distilleries. With less than 500 bottles available from each distillery, the Collection promises to be an elite affair, marking it as the bourbon event of the year. The participating distilleries of the 2024 Bardstown Collection are: Bardstown Bourbon Company, Heaven Hill Distillery, James B. Beam Distilling Co., Limestone Branch Distillery, Log Still Distillery, Lux Row Distillers and Preservation Distillery + Farm.
L to R: Conor O’Driscoll (Heaven Hill Master Distiller). Freddie Noe (James B Beam Master Distiller), JT Leasor (Preservation Distillery Head Distiller), John E, Rempe (Lux Row Master Distiller), Stephen Beam (Limestone Branch Master Distiller), Steven Nally (Bardstown Bourbon Co Master Distiller), Lynne Dant (Log Still Master Distiller).
“Limestone Branch is excited to be included in this year’s Bardstown Collection,” said Stephen Beam, Master Distiller of Limestone Branch Distillery, which is the newest addition to the Bardstown Collection. “Our family has been a part of the local distilling community since the 1800s, and we are honored to collaborate with our fellow distillers. Although we have a friendly competition with one another, our strength lies in our support of each other. It has never been so important to keep Kentucky bourbon as the gold standard, and collaborations like this ensure we will continue to lead the way.”
Throughout National Bourbon Week, attendees can partake in a range of festivities including special distillery events, curated tastings, unique bourbon education opportunities and the 21st Annual Bourbon City Street Concert. This comprehensive series of experiences is crafted to offer bourbon enthusiasts an unparalleled immersion in the Bourbon Capital of the World.
“The inaugural National Bourbon Week will pay tribute to the legacy and craftsmanship that make bourbon an integral part of the Bardstown community,” said Sam Lacy, Executive Director of the Bourbon Capital Alliance. “We invite bourbon enthusiasts from near and far to join us in raising a glass to the rich history and vibrant future of America’s native spirit.”
About Bardstown: Located in the heart of the Bluegrass State, Bardstown offers the ultimate bourbon getaway. With 11 unique distilleries within 16 miles of court square, all your bourbon dreams can come true here in Bardstown, the Bourbon Capital of The World. Settled in 1780, Bardstown is Kentucky’s second-oldest city so come see us for our unrivaled history. Throughout Nelson County, there are more than 300 buildings on the National Register of Historic Places, with nearly 200 of them located in the historic downtown district. Here in Bardstown, you’ll find the friendly attitude and Southern charm that can only be found in such a town. For more information, go to www.VisitBardstown.com.
About the Bourbon Capital Alliance: Since its inception in 2017, the Bourbon Capital Alliance has worked to build new and exciting bourbon experiences, events and infrastructure, improve and add bourbon-centric visual cues to the Bardstown area, and expand upon the legacies and culture of bourbon in and around the Bourbon Capital of the World. For more information, go to www.BourbonCapital.org.
