Celebrating America’s Spirit with a True All-American Beverage
While National Bourbon Heritage Month only began in 2007 when Congress made an official declaration, Bourbon itself dates back over 200 years and has played a key role in shaping America’s economy, culture, and history. Elijah Craig, a Southern Baptist minister, is believed to be the father of Bourbon when, in 1789, he matured existing corn whiskey in oak barrels. However, many argue there is not one person to credit with inventing Bourbon, but this theory is popular due to the irony of a Baptist minister inventing a new type of liquor.
Roughly 175 years after Bourbon was invented, Congress declared Bourbon a unique product of the United States. In order to be classified as Bourbon, it must be produced in the United States, contain 51% corn, and be aged for at least 2 years in charred oak barrels. Today, Bourbon enthusiasts everywhere come together each September to celebrate the culture, history, and craftsmanship of the Bourbon industry.
How Can You Celebrate Bourbon Heritage Month?
Visit the 2021 Cocktail and Culinary Challenge Winners
If you’re lucky enough to live in Bourbon’s home state of Kentucky, there are tons of local bars and restaurants you can visit to get your Bourbon fix. Check out a couple of last year’s Cocktail and Culinary Challenge Winners and give them a visit if you’re in the area!
2021 Best Classic Cocktail
The 2021 Best Classic Cocktail was the Falling created by Mara Hartings at The Kitchen & Bar at Bardstown Bourbon Company in Bardstown, Kentucky.
2021 Best Contemporary Cocktail
The 2021 Best Contemporary Cocktail was the Matzatli Mole created by Isaac Fox at La Chasse in Louisville, Kentucky.
Check out the Best Bourbon Bars in Your Area
If you’re not lucky enough to live in Bourbon country, fear not! Check out the Bourbon Review’s article on the 2022 best Bourbon bars across the country. You can observe National Bourbon Heritage Month from anywhere - the northeast, the midwest, the south, the west, and of course, Bourbon country.
Celebrate from the Comfort of Your Own Home
If staying home is more your speed, you can celebrate at home with this cool and refreshing Bourbon Smash Recipe from Buffalo Trace Distillery.
Ingredients
- 1.25oz Buffalo Trace Bourbon
- 2.5oz Lemonade
- 1 Tbsp All Natural Raspberry Fruit Preserves
- Fresh Mint for Garnish
- Raspberry and Lemon Wedge for Garnish
- Ice
Recipe
Fill an 8oz Mason Jar with ice. Add in Buffalo Trace Bourbon, Lemonade, and Raspberry Preserves. Screw lid onto Mason Jar and shake well.
Garnish with Mint, Raspberry, and Lemon. Enjoy!
There are so many different ways to commemorate National Bourbon Heritage Month. Whether you live in Bourbon country or across the country, or if you’d rather celebrate from the comfort of your own home, there is a way to celebrate for everyone. You can sip on your favorite Bourbon cocktail in your local bar and restaurants or you can create your own concoction at home. How will you choose to celebrate?
