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TASTE
Saturday, February 22, 2025
Kentucky International Convention Center
5:30 p.m. - 10:00 p.m.
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Bourbon University
5:30 p.m. – 6:30 p.m.
Saturday ticket holders have the opportunity to attend 1 of 7 unique Bourbon University sessions. Topics may include Bourbon tastings, Bourbon cocktails and Bourbon infused food.
Bourbon University is included with your Saturday ticket.Â
Important Info:
On Saturday, February 22 ticket holders will check in at the Bourbon Classic Welcome Desk. You will select the session of your choice and receive a ticket for that session. Seating will be first-come, first-served so please have other sessions in mind if your first choice is sold out. You must be present to make your selection. Check-in opens at 4:00 p.m. Doors to sessions will open at 5:15 p.m.
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Sessions:
Pork and Beams – Country Ham & Bourbon   Â
Fred Noe, 7th Generation Master Distiller, James B. Beam Distilling Company
Freddie Noe, 8th Generation Master Distiller, Fred B. Noe Distillery
Follow along as 7th and 8th Generation Master Distillers, Fred & Freddie Noe, guide you through the exploration of the similarities between preserving Bourbons and Country Ham.
The Anatomy of a Finish: A Deconstructed Tasting with Owen Martin
Owen Martin, Master Distiller of Angel’s Envy
Discover the craft behind creating a finished whiskey with Owen Martin, Master Distiller of Angel’s Envy, in this exclusive session. Owen will guide you through a deconstructed tasting of one of Angel’s Envy’s newest expressions, Angel's Envy Triple Oak Bourbon, exploring the individual components and how they come together to achieve the final product. Gain unique insights into the craftsmanship and decision-making process that define its distinct flavor profile. Join us for an unparalleled opportunity to learn from one of the industry’s leading experts.
Greatest Stories Ever Told…So Far
Matt Ray, USA Industry Manager, Sazerac Co.
When the glass is empty, the one thing that you can always take with you is a good story. This seminar is a collection of some of the best and wildest stories ever told about whiskey. This is a lively retelling of some of the greatest true-tales and a few of the TALLEST tales ever spun with the goal of sharing stories that you can take home with you, even after the bottles are long gone!
Whiskey Flight Patterns
Trey Wade, Head of Consumer Experience, Coors Spirits Co
What's the "right way" to structure the order of w whiskey flight? Is it proof? Is it age? Is it price? Is it Mashbill?
Embark on a flavorful exploration of whiskey with this interactive seminar designed for enthusiasts and novices alike. Discover the art and science of building the perfect whiskey flight as we guide you through selecting, organizing, and presenting a lineup that tells a story in every sip.
Learn how to balance mash bill variations, aging processes, and flavor profiles to create a sensory experience that highlights the diversity of whiskey. Whether you’re curating flights for a tasting event, pairing with food, or simply elevating your personal collection, this session will equip you with the knowledge and confidence to craft flights that leave a lasting impression.
Join us for an educational and enjoyable journey into the world of whiskey, complete with tips on hosting tastings and identifying the subtle nuances of aroma, taste, and finish. Your perfect whiskey flight awaits—let’s build it together!
Michter's Manhattan Lab
Andrea Wilson, Master of Maturation, Chief Operating Officer
Dallas White, Head Bartender, The Bar at Fort Nelson Session
Michter’s welcomes you to learn to make an incredible Manhattan cocktail with Dallas White, Head Bartender of The Bar at Fort Nelson, and Andrea Wilson, COO and Master of Maturation at Michter’s. This introductory, interactive class will cover bartending basics, the history of the Manhattan, and variations to make the perfect Manhattan for any occasion. Each guest will be given the opportunity to choose their base ingredients and craft their own Manhattan cocktail with hands-on instruction from the Michter’s team. Guests will be provided with tools to use during the session.
Uncover the flavor distinctions and stories behind George Dickel’s most exceptional variants.
Nicole Austin, Director of George Dickel and Luxury North American Whisky.
Noah Rothbaum, Whisky Expert
Please join George Dickel for a one-of-a-kind educational experience featuring a variety of whisky from the brand’s lineup. Hosted by world renowned whisky expert - Noah Rothbaum - and Nicole Austin – Director of George Dickel and Luxury North American Whisky.
Chicken Cock Whiskey: More Than a Name
Will Woodington, National Whiskey Brand Ambassador
Ever been walking the aisles of a store and had a bottle of Chicken Cock stop you in your tracks, and wondered to yourself how Chicken Cock Whiskey got it’s iconic name? Join us for an hour-long seminar featuring National Brand Ambassador, Will Woodington, as he dives into Chicken Cock’s long rich history and modern revival under Grain and Barrel Spirits, which will be followed by a complimentary flight of 4 of their award-winning whiskeys including their Kentucky Straight Bourbon, Kentucky Straight Rye, Small Batch Kentucky Straight Bourbon, and Double Oak 8 Year Kentucky Whiskey.
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TASTE
7:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.
It’s time for a Bourbon experience like no other! Savor Bourbon tastings from our Bourbon Classic distillers, meet the distiller representatives and enjoy delicious dishes from our featured restaurant - The Kitchen Table. Guests will also receive a Glencairn tasting glass.
Bottle Sales
Distilleries that choose to do so will have bottles available for purchase at their tables at TASTE on Saturday, February 22!
event details subject to change
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A Classic Reception
6:30 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.
Before and during Taste, immerse yourself in Blue Run Spirits!
Sponsored by Blue Run Spirits
As you taste each pour, you can also explore the Crafted Corner, showcasing a selection of artisanal hand-crafted goods, there’s something for everyone to discover.
Bourbon Classic Merch
Due to popular demand, Bourbon Classic t-shirts and hats will be available on site for purchase! Supply is limited, so don't wait to purchase!
Art Alliance Services LLC
Kentucky Artist Paul Acosta will have paintings of various Bourbon bottles, Equine paintings, paintings on KY cut out of wood, Bourbon bottle lamps, and a few Kentucky landscape paintings available.
Bourbon Barrel Foods
Located in Louisville's historic Butchertown Market, Bourbon Barrel Foods produces a collection of all-natural, award winning artisan foods that embrace the history and mystique of Kentucky’s Bourbon Country.
Moss Hill Bath & Body Collection
Moss Hill is a woman owned business from Louisville, Kentucky that handcrafts premium home and personal care products. Indulge yourself with our exclusive Kentucky themed scents and experience the notes of bourbon cocktails outside of a glass.
Pappy & Company
A lifestyle brand built around shared experiences, celebrations both big and small, and stolen moments that allow us to slow down and enjoy life, Pappy & Company works with a network of likeminded friends, partners, artists, and craftspeople to create our collection of fine bourbon-inspired products that range from barrel-aged pantry staples to small-batch cigars to thoughtfully-made homegoods.
Amber Lounge – A VIP Experience
Sponsored by Buffalo Trace Distillery
6:30 p.m. - 10:00 p.m.Â
VIP ticket holders will enjoy exclusive access to the Amber Lounge, which features special bourbon tastings from Buffalo Trace Distillery, additional food options and comfortable seating. Enjoy special small plates crafted by our incredible Featured Chefs - Chef Ming Pu from Brooklyn and the Butcher and Chef Leslie Irvin from Charr'd Bourbon Kitchen and Lounge. Bartender Joe Harper from Charr'd Bourbon Kitchen and Lounge will also have a delicious cocktail for attendees to sample.
NEW FEATURE FOR 2025! VIP ticket holders will now receive early access to the Amber Lounge 30 minutes before doors open for Taste.
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