Dive into the world of rich flavors and timeless traditions with our latest edition. From the heart of Middle Tennessee, we bring you the freshest news, intriguing stories, and expert insights on everything bourbon and mead. Whether you're a seasoned connoisseur or just beginning your journey, we aim to inform and entertain with a light-hearted touch. So, grab your favorite drink (or grab a bottle, a lot is going on in here), sit back, and dive into the latest from the world of bourbon and mead.
Diggs Boys Bourbon Plans New Distillery and Tasting Room in Philadelphia for 2025
Diggs Boys Bourbon, a Black-owned spirits company, is set to expand its reach by hitting Pennsylvania liquor stores this month and opening a new distillery and tasting room in Philadelphia in 2025. Founded in 2020 by Ernest Drummond, Howard Riley, and Michael Earley during the COVID-19 lockdowns, the brand initially sold its high-rye bourbon online before expanding to stores in 12 states. The founders are currently scouting locations in Germantown, Mount Airy, and East Falls for the new facility, which will also offer an internship program for industry hopefuls. Their mission is to create a space for the community to enjoy bourbon, whiskey flights, and cigars while continuing to build their legacy. For the full story, click HERE.
A Day at Short Mountain Distillery: History, Whiskey, and Relaxation
Nestled in the scenic hills of Cannon County, Tennessee, Short Mountain Distillery blends rich history with modern charm. The distillery, utilizing water from a spring once supplying Al Capone’s 1920s speakeasies, crafts moonshine, whiskey, and rye from recipes passed down through local families. Owner Billy Kaufman continues this tradition, offering a unique visitor experience. Recently, I visited with friends and enjoyed a craft fair, dined at the new Rye and Revelry Restaurant, and participated in a mixology class. The restaurant, run by Craig and Rachel Mitchem, features the famous Moonshine Brownie, made with Short Mountain Shine. The distillery offers informative and entertaining tours, mule rides, and various events, making it a perfect spot for a laid-back yet engaging day trip. Learn more at Short Mountain Distillery and click HERE for the full story from the Davidson County Source.
Don’t Miss the 7th Annual Southern Food & Whiskey Experience
Get ready for a taste of Southern flair at the 7th Annual Southern Food & Whiskey Experience, happening on August 10, 2024, at The Factory in Franklin, TN. This year’s revamped event, formerly known as the Southern Whiskey Society gathering, promises an immersive day of gourmet food and top-tier whiskey. Featuring 10 renowned Middle Tennessee chefs and 40 distillers, including craft vodka, gin, and tequila, attendees can enjoy unique whiskey and food pairings in the new “Pairings Room.” Highlights include a silent auction supporting OneGenAway's fight against food insecurity, a VIP lounge with exclusive perks, and a special cigar experience by Casa De Monte Cristo. With early bird tickets already sold out and last year’s event selling out, it's wise to grab your tickets soon! Find more details and secure your spot here.
Pringles Launches Limited-Time Bourbon BBQ Chip Flavor
Pringles is spicing up the snack aisle with its new limited-time Bourbon BBQ flavor, which is already hitting shelves across the U.S. The chips boast a blend of nutty bourbon and sweet barbecue seasoning, described as “perfectly salty and bursting with sweet and savory oak flavor.” Initial reactions are mixed, with some fans eager to try and others offering split reviews. Available at stores like Albertsons and 7-Eleven, these chips cater to bourbon and BBQ lovers alike. Grab a can while they last and see if this new flavor lives up to the hype!
1792 Full Proof Named Best Bourbon at 2024 Singapore World Spirits Competition
The 2024 Singapore World Spirits Competition has crowned Full Proof bourbon from Barton 1792 Distillery as its "Best In Show" bourbon, marking a significant accolade in the prestigious "Triple Crown" of spirits competitions. This robust 62.5% ABV bourbon impresses with berry fruit notes, charred oak, brown sugar, and apricot, followed by a cinnamon spice finish. Aged for a minimum of four years in Bardstown, Kentucky, and proofed down to 125 proof, Full Proof exemplifies Barton’s rising reputation. With a history of award-winning spirits, Barton, owned by Sazerac, continues to elevate its status in the whiskey world. Get a bottle while you can, as this recognition is likely to boost its demand. Stay tuned for more winners from the competition!
Take a Road Trip to Juniper Tree Meadery: Award-Winning Mead Inspired by Ancient Recipes
If you're looking for a unique summer adventure, head over to Juniper Tree Meadery. Known for its award-winning meads crafted from ancient recipes, this meadery offers a taste of history in every sip. Located in Paragould, Arkansas, Juniper Tree Meadery combines traditional techniques with modern expertise to create flavors that are both timeless and innovative. Whether you're a seasoned mead enthusiast or new to this honey-based beverage, visiting Juniper Tree promises an educational and delicious experience. Check out a video from KAIT about Juniper Tree Meadery HERE.
Celebrity Chefs and Bourbon Experts Headline Bourbon & Beyond Festival's Culinary Lineup
The Bourbon & Beyond festival, set for September 19-22 in Louisville, KY, has announced an exciting culinary lineup featuring renowned chefs and bourbon experts. Leading the charge are Louisville Chef Edward Lee, Amanda Freitag, Chris Santos, and bourbon specialist Chris Blandford. Attendees can look forward to The Culinary Atelier demonstrations with chefs like Tiffani Faison and Marc Murphy, as well as The Bourbon Experience hosted by Freitag and Blandford, featuring daily tapings of the Firkin Podcast. With over 100 musical acts, including headliners Zach Bryan and Dave Matthews Band, this four-day event at the Highland Festival Grounds aims to attract thousands of visitors, combining top-tier culinary experiences with stellar entertainment. For more details, visit Bourbon & Beyond's website.Larceny Bourbon Unveils New Packaging and "Seize Tonight" Campaign
Larceny Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey has launched a new packaging design along with the “Seize Tonight” campaign, inspired by the adventurous spirit of John E. Fitzgerald. The updated look for Larceny Small Batch and Larceny Barrel Proof features premium materials and the iconic key and keyhole imagery, connecting to its Old Fitzgerald heritage. The campaign encourages bourbon enthusiasts to embrace curiosity and take risks, echoing Fitzgerald's legacy. The new packaging also includes hidden UV ink details, revealing the brand's story under a blacklight. Larceny’s wheated bourbon, known for its smoothness, is available nationwide, with Small Batch priced at $27.99 and Barrel Proof at $64.99.
Devil’s Cask Moves Headquarters to Somerset-Pulaski County, Sparking Local Economic Growth
Devil’s Cask, a pioneer in whiskey barrel technology, is relocating its headquarters from West Virginia to Somerset, KY, as announced by CEO Jeremy Grunewald at a recent SPEDA board meeting. This move underscores the company’s dedication to growth and community involvement, aligning with Somerset's blend of tradition and progress. Known for its patented Spirit Lock Technology that reduces whiskey loss without affecting quality, Devil’s Cask supplies barrels to numerous distilleries including Whiskey House Kentucky and Corsair Distillery. The relocation promises new job opportunities in operations, warehouse management, and sales, enhancing the local economy. For more information or to apply, visit devilscask.com.
Hidden Barn Bourbon Wins Double Gold at San Francisco World Spirits Competition
Hidden Barn Bourbon’s Series 1, Batch 23B has earned a prestigious double gold at The Tasting Alliance’s San Francisco World Spirits Competition in the Small Batch Bourbon category for spirits up to 5 years old. Scoring 98 points, judges praised it as "perfectly balanced." This marks the second consecutive year Hidden Barn has achieved this honor. Distilled at Neeley Family Distillery and blended by Jackie Zykan, Batch 23B features 70% corn, 20% rye, and 10% malted barley mashbill. Bottled at cask strength of 110.1 proof, it's known for its rich, buttery caramel corn base with notes of dark fruit and florals. Available for $74.99, it can be purchased at Neeley Family Distillery and in select states. For more details, visit hiddenbarnwhiskey.com.
Chicken Cock Unveils Limited Edition Island Rooster Rye Whiskey
Chicken Cock distillery has launched Island Rooster, a limited edition Kentucky Straight Rye finished in Caribbean rum barrels. This unique expression, inspired by the Caribbean's vibrant mornings, merges spicy rye notes with the sweetness of candied molasses from the rum casks. Bottled at 95 proof, Island Rooster offers an elegant nose of spices and molasses, a complex palate of vanilla, butterscotch, and pepper, and a long finish enriched by sweet molasses and a buttery mouthfeel. Priced at $199.99, this special release captures the essence of the Caribbean blended with Kentucky's Bluegrass heritage.
15 STARS Unveils Innovative Whiskey Blends with Three Kings and Timeless Reserve Releases
15 STARS has announced the release of Two new expressions: Three Kings Fine-Aged Whiskey and an updated 113-Year-Old Timeless Reserve Fine-Aged Bourbon. Three Kings blends premium wheat, rye, and bourbon whiskeys aged 11 and 15 years, offering notes of baking spice, ripe fruit, and ground pepper, balanced by a palate of persimmon pudding and candied fruit, with a finish of dark fruit and honey. Bottled at 107 proof, it is priced at $179. The 13-Year-Old Timeless Reserve, a blend of 13 and 15-year-old bourbons, features caramel, vanilla bean, and cherry on the nose, with a palate of vanilla extract, molasses, and dried banana, finishing with caramel, leather, and seasoned oak. Bottled at 103 proof, it is priced at $279. Both releases are available nationwide and online.
Bourbon & Belonging: Kentucky’s Queer Bourbon Week Announces Exciting Lineup
Queer Kentucky's new event, Bourbon & Belonging, will take place from October 2-6, showcasing Kentucky’s bourbon and hospitality culture to LGBTQ+ visitors. The inclusive event will span eight regions, including Bardstown, Lexington, Louisville, and Northern Kentucky, offering activities like a single barrel selection in Lexington, a disco-themed pool party in Louisville, and a bourbon and burlesque show in Northern Kentucky. The week will also feature cocktail classes, bourbon 101 lessons, distillery tours, drag brunches, and more. Partnering distilleries include New Riff Distilling and Second Sight Spirits, while host hotels include 21c Museum Hotels and Hotel Covington. The event will raise funds for Queer Kentucky and other local LGBTQ+ organizations. For more details and tickets, visit bourbonandbelonging.com.
Discover Kentucky's Bourbon Country with Come Find Bourbon
Whether you're a seasoned bourbon enthusiast or a curious newcomer, Come Find Bourbon is your gateway to exploring Kentucky's rich bourbon culture in Covington, Frankfort, and Bardstown. Their website offers a wealth of resources, including fun facts, thoughtful itineraries for extended stays, and trip tips on souvenirs and dining options. It’s a comprehensive guide that highlights where to stay, book tours, and directly links to the local tourism bureaus of each city. Plus, their free passport feature lets you check in at each stop, earn points, and claim rewards. Dive into authentic bourbon experiences and start planning your trip with Come Find Bourbon for an unforgettable journey through Kentucky’s bourbon heritage.
Buzzard’s Roost Unveils First Bottled-in-Bond Bourbon
Buzzard’s Roost Sipping Whiskey has expanded its lineup with a new Bottled-in-Bond Bourbon, marking their first foray into this category. Featuring a mash bill of 51% corn, 45% wheat, and 4% malted barley, this bourbon offers a silky texture and subtle sweetness from the wheat. It’s aged for five years and then undergoes secondary maturation in Char #1 barrels with proprietary toast levels. Distilled in 2018 and bottled at 100 proof, the bourbon has already received high praise from whiskey experts. Priced at $71.99, it’s available in 22 markets, online, and at Buzzard’s Roost’s Whiskey Row Experience in Louisville.
Reviving Bourbon Heritage: Dick Burks’ Burks Spring Bourbon
Dick Burks, a descendant of 18th-century bourbon maker George Richard Burks, is reviving his family's whiskey tradition with Burks Spring Bourbon. Originally produced on a farm in Loretto that later became Maker’s Mark, the Burks family bourbon was lost to Prohibition. Now, after garnering support from family and friends, Dick has recreated the original recipe, producing a high-rye, 100-proof bourbon. The initial batch, aged nearly six years, is crafted at Kentucky Artisan Distillery in Crestwood. Despite the challenges and time involved, Burks is excited to share his family’s authentic bourbon story and has begun distribution in select stores and restaurants.
Mead Day – August 3, 2024: A Toast to History and Craft
Mead Day is August 3, 2024, celebrating one of the world’s oldest alcoholic beverages. Originating around 7000 B.C. in Northern China and mentioned in ancient texts like the Rigveda, mead has a storied history as a revered nectar. Modern mead-making involves a meticulous process of fermentation, yielding a diverse range of flavors from sweet to dry. This year, join the festivities by sampling different meads, trying your hand at home brewing, hosting a mead-themed feast, or supporting local meaderies. Mead Day not only honors ancient traditions but also highlights the craft and creativity of mead-makers today. I encourage you to visit 1634 Meadery in Maine, Schramm’s Meadery and B.Nektar in Michigan, The Skeptic Meadery, Eagle's Claw Meadery and Honeytree Meadery in middle Tennessee, Four Brothers Mead and Burnt Barrel Meadery in Missouri, Superstition Meadery, Drinking Horn Meadery and Scale and Feather Meadery in Arizona or Honeygirl Meadery in North Carolina. These are a few of my favorite meaderies and if you do stop by one on Mead Day, tell them Walker (that’s me) sent you. It won’t get you anything special but it might be entertaining to see the look on their faces as they ask themselves, “Who the hell is Walker?” So see what all the buzz is about on August 3rd (and any other day). Cheers to this time-honored beverage and its enduring charm!
Chattanooga Whiskey Experimental Batch 039 Release Announcement
Chattanooga Whiskey's Experimental Batch 039 (Harvest Bourbon) will launch on Friday, Aug. 2 at their Experimental Distillery. This batch features a unique 7-grain mash bill (see above), aged for 5 years in long-seasoned, custom-toasted casks. The details of this intriguing new release are still under wraps, but enthusiasts are encouraged to join their email list for early updates.
Introducing the 2024 Kentucky Bourbon Hall of Fame Inductees, Including the Hall’s First Black Chemist
The Kentucky Distillers' Association announced the 2024 inductees to the Kentucky Bourbon Hall of Fame®, celebrating pioneers who have significantly impacted the bourbon industry. This year's honorees include Elmer Lucille Allen, the first Black chemist at Brown-Forman, and Dee Ford of Angel's Envy Distillery, known for her contributions to bourbon tourism. Ken Lewis, founder of New Riff Distilling and the driving force behind retail innovations, will receive the Parker Beam Lifetime Achievement Award. Other inductees are Peter T. Loftin, founder of Bardstown Bourbon Company, and Corky Taylor, who revived Kentucky Peerless Distilling. The induction ceremony will take place on September 10, 2024, during National Bourbon Heritage Month. For more information including biographies of all the inductees, click HERE.
Nebraska Governor Proposes Steep Increase in Spirits Tax
Nebraska rocket scientist Governor Jim Pillen has proposed a property tax plan that includes a dramatic increase in the excise tax rate for distilled spirits, from $3.75 to $14.50 per gallon—a 287% hike. This change would give Nebraska the second-highest spirits tax rate in the U.S. According to the Distilled Spirits Council of the United States (DISCUS), this could result in a $110 million decline in alcohol sales and the loss of around 1,350 jobs. The plan aims to generate additional revenue for property tax relief by also increasing taxes on other "sin" items like cigarettes and vaping products. However, DISCUS argues that this tax hike will negatively impact consumers and businesses, including local farmers and the hospitality industry, urging legislators to reject the proposal.
Bulleit Releases Barrel Strength Batch 8
Bulleit Frontier Whiskey has unveiled its latest release, Barrel Strength Bourbon Batch 8, now available nationwide. This new batch is created from expertly curated whiskey barrels, blended without any added water, resulting in a robust flavor profile and darker color. With a high rye mash bill, similar to Bulleit Bourbon, Batch 8 is uncut and unfiltered, offering an ABV of 60.9% (121.8 proof). Packaged in Bulleit’s iconic bottle with a black label and orange accents, it retails for $59.99 for a 750 ml bottle. As always, Bulleit encourages responsible drinking for those 21 and older. Check out the scoop from Fred Minnick HERE.
Spirit Hound Distillers Unveils New Bottled-in-Bond Whisky and Single Barrel Rye
Colorado’s Spirit Hound Distillers is celebrating July with the release of two new whiskies: a 6-year Single Barrel Bottled-in-Bond American Single Malt and a 4½-year Single Barrel Colorado Rye. The Bottled-in-Bond designation, a mark of quality, requires the whisky to be aged at least four years, bottled at 100 proof, and made by one distiller at a single distillery in one season. Co-founder Craig Engelhorn emphasizes their commitment to quality with these releases. The single barrel rye, crafted from barley and heirloom Colorado rye, offers bold, spicy flavors and has been aged in American Oak casks. Both whiskies are available in Spirit Hound's Colorado tasting rooms and various retail locations across the state. Learn more at www.spirthounds.com.
Las Vegas Distillery Reopens After Major Renovation, Offering Unique Spirits and Experiences
Las Vegas Distillery in Henderson has reopened after a two-year renovation under new owner Rob Saucier, who purchased the distillery in July 2022. The revamped distillery features a tasting room, craft cocktails, bottle sales, and interactive tours. Master distiller Jonny Ver Planck leads the creation of small-batch spirits, including vodka, white rum, coffee liqueur, and limited-edition high-proof rum. They also offer "new make" bourbon and single-malt whiskey. Mixologist Cody Fredrickson's cocktails, like the Moscow mule and espresso martini, highlight housemade spirits, while tasting flights and educational insights cater to enthusiasts. The bites menu features local artisan bread, cheeses, charcuterie, pizzas, and snacks. The distillery is open Thursday to Sunday, offering tours that delve into distilling history and processes. For more information, visit lasvegasdistillery.com.
More Bourbon and Mead News
- West Overton Village Continues To Preserve Pennsylvania's Rich Whiskey History [CBS News]
- Honey Wine (Mead) Market to Hit $871.34 Million by 2030, Growing at 6.84% CAGR [OpenPR]
- Remus Babe Ruth Reserve Bourbon Review [PASTE]
- Why Are Bottles Like Eagle Rare, Weller, Blanton’s, And Pappy Van Winkle So Pricy, And So Hard To Find? [Food & Wine]
- The Best Micro Bourbon—According To The International Whisky Competition [Forbes]
- Yellowstone's Cole Hauser imports his ranch-inspired bourbon to Texas [CultureMap]
- We Asked Top Bourbon Influencers To Review The Most Hyped Bottles Online [UPROXX]
- The Best Distilleries In The Sf Bay Area [SFGATE]
- Southern Star Named Wyndham Championship Official Bourbon [YES! WEEKLKY]
Thanks for joining me on this latest journey through the world of bourbon and mead. I hope you found this update as exciting and enlightening as I did. Whether you’re a seasoned enthusiast or just starting to explore these delightful beverages, there’s always something new to discover. Keep sipping, stay curious, and I’ll catch you in the next edition. Cheers!
