Bourbon | KRG Hospitality

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September 9, 2024by David Klemt David Klemt No Comments

How’s Your 30 Days of Bourbon Challenge?

How’s Your 30 Days of Bourbon Challenge Going?

by David Klemt

Drink Raddannd Bourbon, aged for “snake” years.

September is National Bourbon Heritage Month, and Bourbon & Banter have thrown down their 30 Days of Bourbon Challenge again this year.

For those who are unaware, allow me to introduce you to Bourbon & Banter.

Bourbon devotee and advocate Patrick Garrett founded Bourbon & Banter back in 2011. What has followed over the course of 13 years is the coming together of a team of bourbon aficionados, a community of bourbon lovers, a podcast, and a tasting experience team called DrinkCurious, founded in 2022.

Oh, and, of course, the 30 Days of Bourbon Challenge, which I first covered in September 2021.

Now, I’m well aware that it’s September 9. I’m sure many of you had enjoyed separate bourbons in the eight days prior to the publication of this article. For those who haven’t, it isn’t as though a member of the Bourbon & Banter team is going to run into your bar and slap a bourbon out of your hand if you and your guests run the challenge through October 8.

So, make sure to connect with Bourbon & Banter, tag social posts with #30DaysOfBourbon and #BourbonHeritageMonth, and donate $30 to the charity of your choice if you see fit. Hey, that would be an excellent way for you and your guests to raise funds for a deserving, local cause.

To help you and your guests try new, exciting bourbons this month, check out the Breaking Bourbon release calendar. Scroll down to August and September for some of the newest bourbons to hit the market.

Cheers!

Only. Bourbon. Counts.

There are some rules that you and anyone else participating in this challenge need to honor.

First and foremost: only bourbon counts. I mean, it’s in the name of the creators of this challenge, and the challenge itself.

So, one more time: only bourbon counts.

And, in case anyone needs a refresher, bourbon is, according to the Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB), a “[w]hisky produced in the U.S. at not exceeding 80% alcohol by volume (160 proof) from a fermented mash of not less than 51 percent corn and stored at not more than 62.5% alcohol by volume (125 proof) in charred new oak containers.”

The good news is that, as Bourbon & Banter point out, Tennessee whiskey counts toward this challenge. For the curious, this is because Tennessee whiskeys—generally speaking—are bourbons that are filtered through charcoal chips before being rested. This step, which doesn’t violate the rules for classifying a whiskey as a bourbon, is known as the Lincoln County Process.

A Few More Rules

Really, I see these more as guidelines. Why? Because Bourbon & Banter, in my opinion, are simply clarifying a few key details in the interest of integrity. However, they’re maintaining the fun factor of their 30 Day Bourbon Challenge.

Another rule is that the mash bill is important, and as long as one recipe is different from another, it counts as a separate bourbon. As an example, many bourbon aficionados are aware that Four Roses boasts ten different mash bills. Well, each of those counts as a different bourbon, so that’s ten bourbons right there.

Per Bourbon & Banter’s rules, finished bourbons also count toward the challenge. As they explain their stance, “As long as the finished bourbon started life as a bourbon we see no reason to exclude it due to alternative barrel finishing.”

Just like mash bill is important, so is expression. To that end, no, different barrels of the same expression do not count as different bourbons for this challenge.

For all of the rules, click here. And for your own copy of the official 30 Days of Bourbon Challenge calendar, click here and scroll down.

Now, check out your bourbon inventory, organize your reps, activate your team, and engage your guests. You’ve all got some bourbon to ~~drink~~ learn about!

Image: Microsoft Designer

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Woodford Reserve 2024 "Adorned with Flowers" bottle

March 6, 2024by David Klemt David Klemt No Comments

Woodford Reserve 2024 Derby Bottle

Woodford Reserve Unveils 2024 Kentucky Derby Bottle

by David Klemt

Commemorating the 150th running of the iconic Kentucky Derby, Woodford Reserve’s 2024 Derby bottle is now available for purchase.

In keeping with tradition, the bottle’s label features a Kentucky artist’s work.

For 2024, Woodford Reserve collaborated with artist Wylie Caudill, who crafted the painting “Adorned with Roses.” The art is a clear nod to another tradition: adorning the winning horse with a garland consisting of hundreds of roses, the Derby’s official flower.

This should grab an operator’s attention for a few reasons. To start, some operators enjoy collecting bottles. So, they can now get their hands on this annual release.

Further, it’s time to start thinking about this year’s Derby, which takes place on May 4. Millions of people watch the Kentucky Derby every year. Operators need to ensure their Mint Juleps and riffs are dialed in, including the appropriate drinkware.

Impressively, while it has been postponed twice, it has never been cancelled.

Traditionally, the Derby is run on the first Saturday in May. The race was run in June in 1945 due to World War II. And in 2020, Covid-19 restrictions pushed the race to September. Incredibly, a world war and a pandemic couldn’t thwart the Derby.

2024’s race is the 150th running of the Kentucky Derby. It stands to reason that even more people will show an interest in watching and celebrating this year’s race. Woodford’s commemorative bottle at least be on the back bar of any venue running a Derby promotion. It would also make for a great raffle item on race day.

Finally, we celebrate International Whiskey Day this month. The more special edition whiskeys available on March 27, the better.

Learn more about this year’s Woodford Reserve Derby bottle below. Cheers!

Woodford Reserve Releases 2024 Bottle Celebrating 150th Anniversary of the Kentucky Derby

Bottle features the art of Kentuckian Wylie Caudill

Versailles, KY (March 5, 2024) — Woodford Reserve®, the Presenting Sponsor of the Kentucky Derby®, is honoring “The Most Exciting Two Minutes in Sports®” with the release of its 2024 commemorative Derby bottle.

This year’s special release celebrates the 150th running of the Kentucky Derby® and features the artwork of Kentucky native Wylie Caudill, known for his bold, repetitive patterns, and his signature roses. His painting, “Adorned in Roses,” depicts a racing thoroughbred covered with red roses, with a background of multi-colored roses.

The one-liter bottle retails for $55 and is available for purchase globally. A special presale on ReserveBar begins March 5. It also is for sale at Woodford Reserve Distillery and in the Woodford Reserve online store starting March 5.

“Wylie’s artwork embodies the spirit of Woodford Reserve, the liveliness of Churchill Downs during race day, and the heart of Kentucky,” Woodford Reserve Master Distiller Elizabeth McCall said. “We’re thrilled to have a Kentuckian’s artwork on our bottle during this monumental year.”

Caudill grew up drawing and painting in Cynthiana, Kentucky. During college, he spent his free time creating chalk drawings, leaving his mark around campus and leading to his title ‘chalk guy’ among locals. He expanded his public street art to painting murals in Lexington after college, and many of his murals can be seen across Kentucky today. Caudill also created the Official Art of the Kentucky Derby for Churchill Downs for the 150th Derby, marking the first year that Woodford Reserve and Churchill Downs used the same artist.

“As a Kentucky native, I am honored to be a part of this milestone celebration,” Caudill said. “I have painted my signature roses many times over the years, but this one is truly special. The colorful roses symbolize the diverse Derby fans from around the world, connecting people beyond the track.”

Woodford Reserve’s Derby bottle has been an annual collector’s item anticipated by bourbon and racing fans since 1999.

About Woodford Reserve

Woodford Reserve, “Presenting Sponsor of the Kentucky Derby,” is crafted at the historic Woodford Reserve Distillery, tucked in the heart of thoroughbred country in Versailles, Kentucky. A National Historic Landmark, the Woodford Reserve Distillery represents craftsmanship with a balance of historic heritage and modern practices. Woodford Reserve is a product of the Brown-Forman Corporation, a premier producer and marketer of fine quality beverage alcohol brands including Jack Daniel’s, Finlandia, Korbel, Tequila Herradura, Old Forester, Sonoma-Cutrer and Chambord. Please enjoy your bourbon responsibly. To learn more about Woodford Reserve, visit us www.woodfordreserve.com or check us out on Facebook at www.facebook.com/woodfordreserve.

Disclaimer: Neither the author nor KRG Hospitality received compensation, monetary or otherwise, in exchange for this post.

Image provided by Woodford Reserve

Lynn House making Old Fashioned cocktails for Elijah Craig

August 29, 2023by David Klemt David Klemt No Comments

Prepare Now for Old Fashioned Week

Prepare Now for Old Fashioned Week

by David Klemt

Lynn House making Old Fashioneds for Elijah Craig Old Fashioned Week.

It may be nearly two months away but it’s not too early to register your bar and team for Elijah Craig Old Fashioned Week.

This year’s event, the fourth annual Old Fashioned Week, will take place from Friday, October 13 to Sunday, October 22.

As was the case in 2022, the Southern Smoke Foundation will be this year’s beneficiary. In 2020 and 2021, Elijah Craig Old Fashioned Week raised a combined $200,000 for the Restaurant Workers’ Community Foundation.

Just last year, to add context, Old Fashioned Week helped make it possible for Southern Smoke to provide nearly $110,000 in relief grants to food and beverage workers.

Those interested in participating this year can register their venue for free via this link. Create an Old Fashioned LTO menu—or simply make standard Old Fashioneds with Elijah Craig bourbon—and Elijah Craig will donate $1 for every Old Fashioned sold (up to $100,000).

There really couldn’t be a simpler way to deliver a fantastic, classic cocktail experience to guests while supporting a great cause.

Elijah Craig Old Fashioned Cocktail Contest

There’s more to Elijah Craig Old Fashioned Week. You and your bartenders have the opportunity to participate in a cocktail contest, too.

From now until October 31, anyone who wants to throw their hat in the ring can submit their recipe for their own signature Old Fashioned.

The winner of the Elijah Craig Old Fashioned Cocktail Contest will win $5,000. They’ll also have their winning recipe included in Elijah Craig’s 2024 cocktail recipe book.

Recipes can be submitted through this link. For contest rules and judging criteria, please click here.

To learn more about Elijah Craig and the Old Fashioned, check out episode 52 of the Bar Hacks podcast with special guest Lynn House.

Four unique takes on the Old Fashioned can be found below.

4 Day Weekend

Recipe by Stephanie Andrews

2 oz. Elijah Craig Bourbon
1/2 oz. Grilled Peach Gomme Syrup (see note)
4 dashes Lapsang Souchong Tea–Honey Mustard Bitters (see note)
BBQ Spritz (see note)
Grilled peach slice to garnish
Lemon zest to garnish

Prepare an Old Fashioned glass with a large ice sphere or cube. Add ice and first three ingredients to mixing glass. Stir, then strain into prepared glass. Mist BBQ spritz over drink, then garnish.

Note for syrup: Prepare five ripe peaches, removing pits and slicing into pieces. Grill over high heat until peach pieces have grill marks. Dissolve two tablespoons gum arabic in one quart of water in saucepan, whisking constantly. When gum arabic has dissolved fully, add four cups sugar. Again, whisk until dissolved fully. Add peach pieces and steep overnight. Strain, discard peaches, and store in airtight container in refrigerator for up to two months.

Note for bitters: Add 750ml of neutral grain spirit, two tablespoons Lapsang souchong tea leaves, and two tablespoons black tea leaves to a mason jar and shake vigorously. Next, add the peel of one lemon, one cinnamon stick, one teaspoon grains of paradise, and one tablespoon honey mustard to mason jar. Allow mixture to rest for one to two weeks, then strain into a bottle. Bitters may be stored for up to two months at room temperature.

Note for spritz: This recipe is a bit…different. Char eight high-quality beef hotdogs on a grill. Once charred, chop hotdogs into small pieces, place into a sous-vide bag with 750ml of Elijah Craig bourbon, and cook for two hours at 165 degrees Fahrenheit. Strain and pout into an atomizer or mister. The spritz can be stored for up to two months at room temperature.

Borrowed Time

Recipe by Alec Bales

1.25 oz. Elijah Craig Small Batch Bourbon
0.75 oz. St. Lucian Bounty dark rum
0.25 oz. Sorghum syrup
2 dashes Angostura bitters
2 dashes Regans’ orange bitters
Round of lemon peel to garnish

Stir all ingredients except for garnish in a rocks glass. Stir, add ice, then stir again. Express oils from lemon peel, then drop into glass to garnish.

A Swallow’s Leave

Recipe by Caer Maiko

2 oz. Butter chestnut–infused Elijah Craig bourbon (see note)
0.25 oz. Soy-caramel syrup (see note)
3 dashes Adzuki bean–Angostura bitters (see note)
Coin-shaped orange peel to garnish

As with the recipe above, add all ingredients minus garnish to an Old Fashioned glass, add ice, and stir. Flame the orange peel, then drop into glass to garnish

Note for infusion: Melt a teaspoon of unsalted butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add eight shelled chestnuts to pan. Cook chestnuts until lightly charred and butter is lightly browned. Add a 750ml bottle of Elijah Craig bourbon and, while still warm, the contents of the saucepan to a mason jar. Leave jar in a freezer for eight hours, then fine strain back into original bottle.

Note for syrup: Simmer three ounces brown sugar, three ounces turbinado sugar, and a half-ounce soy sauce in six ounces of water in a saucepan over medium heat for ten minutes. Ensure all solids dissolve fully, then let cool and pour into appropriate container.

Note for bitters: Wash the syrup from a half-cup of canned adzuki beans. Place into a glass container with four ounces of Angostura bitters. Muddle, then cover container and leave for 12 to 24 hours before passing mixture through a strainer into another appropriate container.

Santiago’s Luck

Recipe by Jake Powell; makes 10 servings

15 oz. Elijah Craig bourbon
5 oz. Cold-brew concentrate
1.5 oz. Yellow Chartreuse
1.5 oz. Amaro Nonino
1.5 oz. Cinnamon-infused banana liqueur (preferably Tempus Fugit; see note)
0.25 oz. Orange bitters
Optional: Pinch of salt
Orange twist to garnish

Add all ingredients, minus garnish but including pinch of salt if you so choose, to a 750ml bottle. One serving is two ounces over a large ice sphere or cube in a rocks glass.

Note for infusion: Prepare a 750ml bottle of banana liqueur by adding three or four cinnamon sticks to it. Let sit for 24 hours at room temperature, then strain into either a separate 750ml bottle or into another container, then back into original bottle.

Image: Elijah Craig

August 21, 2023by David Klemt David Klemt No Comments

Maker’s Mark Debuts Age-stated Bourbon

Maker’s Mark Debuts Age-stated Bourbon

by David Klemt

The team at Maker’s Mark, one of the most iconic and respected names in bourbon, is proud to introduce their oldest-ever expression.

Maker’s Mark Cellar Aged is making its introduction to the world in time to celebrate National Bourbon Heritage Month. As a quick reminder, we honor America’s native spirit in September.

This innovative expression is, in my opinion, an exercise in restraint. As decadent a whiskey as Cellar Aged may be for one’s senses, this bourbon shows that the team at Star Hill Farm is disciplined and deliberate.

While many other whiskey producers have been using age statements to pull focus from competitors, grab headlines, make splashes among collectors, and otherwise use aging to move cases, Maker’s Mark has stayed their course.

That is to say, Maker’s Mark takes their time when implementing a new process. If the team can’t figure out how to do something in a distinctly Maker’s way, they don’t do it.

Take, as an example, their limestone cellar, introduced in 2016. This maturation environment is Star Hill Farm’s approach to aging. The team doesn’t have an interest in simply stacking on years—age must adhere to Maker’s Mark flavor vision and leverage terroir.

Inaugural Annual Release

The 2023 release of Cellar Aged is a blend of 11- and 12-year-old Maker’s Mark. The percentage breakdown is 13 percent of the former and 87 percent of the latter.

The liquid that will eventually become Cellar Aged is first aged for six years in the Maker’s Mark warehouse before being moved to the maturation cellar.

For those wondering, this innovative expression will be an annual release. In fact, it appears Maker’s Mark plans to mark each National Bourbon Heritage Month going forward with Cellar Aged.

This year’s expression is bottled at cask strength—115.7 proof—and comes with a SRP of $150. Sources state that there are 30,000 bottles of the 2023 release, and more may be produced each year.

And for those curious about when they can wrap their gums around a dram, the wait shouldn’t be long. In response to a comment underneath an Instagram post, Maker’s Mark says the following:

“Thanks for asking! Cellar Aged will leave Star Hill Farm in the next few weeks and start making its way across the country!”

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A post shared by Maker’s Mark (@makersmark)

So, be on the lookout and let your Maker’s rep know you need this bottle on your back bar.

Tasting Notes

The KRG Hospitality team has yet to taste Maker’s Mark Cellar Aged. Therefore, the tasting notes below are from the Maker’s website.

Aroma: Dark stone fruit, caramelized sugar, toasted oak

Taste: Balanced with big oak, dark vanilla and fruit

Finish: Velvety texture, long and complex with caramelized barrel notes and baking spices

For more information, please review the official Maker’s Mark Cellar Aged press release below.

Introducing Maker’s Mark® Cellar Aged, an Inspired New Take on Older American Whiskey

Matured in a Limestone Whisky Cellar, Maker’s Mark Cellar Aged is Aged to Taste, Not Time

LORETTO, Ky., Aug. 16, 2023 /PRNewswire/ — Maker’s Mark^® is proud to debut Maker’s Mark^® Cellar Aged Bourbon, an annual, global limited-release expression that proves whisky aging is about more than just a number. Featuring a marriage of 11- and 12-year-old bourbon, Maker’s Mark Cellar Aged delivers the distillery’s highly anticipated oldest release, stemming from the question: What if age isn’t just about time, but instead about how you use that time to evolve, develop and mature?

Since its founding in 1953, Maker’s Mark has aged its whisky to taste – not time – to achieve the vision set by its founders: bourbon without the bite that’s always smooth, soft and creamy. Maker’s Mark Cellar Aged stays true to this philosophy, delivering a richer, deeper and more complex older bourbon, free from the harsher tannic effects commonly found in extra-aged American whiskies, as a result of our innovative maturation process that starts in traditional Kentucky warehouses and finishes in the distillery’s one-of-a-kind limestone whisky cellar.

“For more than 65 years, aging our whisky for a decade-plus wasn’t something we did,” said Rob Samuels, 8th generation whisky maker and grandson of the founders at Maker’s Mark. “It’s not that we didn’t believe in it; we simply hadn’t found a way to do it that didn’t compromise on our taste vision – until now. Cellar Aged embodies an older whisky that’s distinctly Maker’s Mark. One rooted in challenging convention, delivering new flavor experiences from the environment that surrounds us, and building on a taste vision that’s been generations in the making.”

To become Maker’s Mark Cellar Aged, barrels of the distillery’s classic distillate first spend approximately six years aging in traditional bourbon warehouses, where they endure the Kentucky climate and its temperature swings season after season until they reach full maturity and can be called “Maker’s Mark.” Barrels are then moved into the distillery’s proprietary whisky cellar for an additional five to six years of aging before being blended to taste and bottled. Built into the natural limestone shelf of the Kentucky hills, the cellar’s consistently cool environment slows down the tannic impact that occurs during maturation, while allowing the bourbon to develop a deeper, darker flavor with hidden depths, but no bitterness.

This innovative and taste-led approach in pursuit of an older Maker’s Mark expression continues the boundary-pushing mindset that has shaped the brand since the beginning. Founders Bill and Margie Samuels challenged category norms when they burned their 170-year-old family recipe, choosing to use red winter wheat instead of rye in their mashbill for a softer, smoother bourbon. This spirit of asking “what if?” was present in the introduction of Maker’s Mark 46, which is crafted using a proprietary wood-stave finishing technique, and in Maker’s Mark Private Selection, which became the industry’s first custom barrel program upon its launch in 2016.

Cellar Aged will be an annual, limited release available in specific markets around the world. The unique maturation approach of Cellar Aged will be consistent every year, but the specific blend of aged bourbon will vary based on which barrels are ready, by taste. The inaugural release of Cellar Aged is a marriage of 12-year-old and 11-year-old whisky – 87% and 13%, respectively – bottled at cask strength (115.7 proof). Cellar Aged will be available for a suggested retail price of USD $150.00 in the United States in September 2023; in London, Munich and select Global Travel Retail accounts in October 2023; and in Tokyo and Singapore in early 2024.

For more information about Maker’s Mark Cellar Aged, please visit www.MakersMark.com.

Image: Maker’s Mark

Bib & Tucker Double Char bourbon bottle and cocktail

August 16, 2023by David Klemt David Klemt No Comments

Double Char Bourbon Launches Nationwide

Bib & Tucker Double Char Bourbon Launches Nationwide

by David Klemt

A smoky bourbon that draws inspiration from the savory side of the culinary world is finally, mercifully available throughout the US.

We’ve been waiting patiently, having shared the news of this new release back in June. We’re excited to be able to update that story: Everyone can finally get their hands on this unique small-batch bourbon.

Double Char is an innovative Tennessee bourbon rested for six years in new white American oak barrels that weighs in at 88 proof. And whether people to choose to snap bottles up online or off-premise, this smoky sipper from Bib & Tucker Small Batch Bourbon is ready for action.

What this means for operators and bar teams, of course, is that the bourbon lovers and bourbon-curious among guests will expect to find Double Char on bar menus across the country.

This is great news for bar and restaurant operators who encourage collaboration between front- and back-of-house teams. Double Char has been described as “a smoky sweet BBQ in a bottle.” This culinary inspiration will allow bartenders and chefs to work together to wow guests with specialty cocktails that pair incredible well with all manner of rich, savory, smoky dishes.

I, for one, foresee mouthwatering LTO cocktails and specialty prix fixe experiences centered on Double Char on the horizon.

To learn more about Bib & Tucker Double Char, click here or review the press release below. And to learn more about Bib & Tucker, click here to listen to episode 59 of the Bar Hacks podcast.

Cheers!

Bib & Tucker Small Batch Bourbon Announces Double Char Innovation

New Savory, Smoky Bourbon Inspired by the Flavor of Food Smoked on the Open Flame

STAMFORD, Conn., May 31, 2023 /PRNewswire/—Bib & Tucker Small Batch Bourbon is proudly announcing the release of Bib & Tucker Double Char Bourbon.

Inspired by the turn of the century, when food was cooked on the open flame, this new bourbon is aged twice to create savory smoky notes and an exceptionally smooth finish. Bib & Tucker Double Char is first aged for six years in the rolling hills of Tennessee in new white American oak, followed by a minimum of five months in a second heavily charred and smoked new barrel. This unique fire-forged double char aging method creates the rich and deep flavor of Bib & Tucker Double Char.

“I can’t wait for consumers to try this delicious expression,” said Tom Steffanci, President of Deutsch Family Wine & Spirits. “Double Char spends just the right amount of time in the second heavily charred barrel, creating a savory, smoky character that adds a whole new dimension to the bourbon.”

As a Tennessee bourbon, Bib & Tucker follows the Lincoln County process unique to the state, meaning the bourbon is filtered through sugar maple charcoal before going into the barrel for aging.

For Double Char, to pay homage to the Lincoln County process, the second barrel is smoked with sugar maple before being filled with the brand’s 6-year aged bourbon. The perfect amount of time in the barrels, the char, and the sugar maple barrel smoking process delivers a bourbon with an inviting savory white smoke flavor not found in any other whiskey on the market.

Bib & Tucker Double Char Tasting Notes:

Nose: A touch of smoke with immediate notes of toasted oak and dulce de leche, background notes of cinnamon and clove
Palate: Vanilla and sugar maple surrounded with white smoke, hints of sweet corn and toasted cinnamon
Finish: Medium to long finish with oak, white smoke and vanilla
Color: Deep rich mahogany with copper undertones

The lineup of Bib & Tucker Small Batch Bourbon includes:

The Classic Six: 6-Year-Old Small Batch Bourbon Whiskey – SRP: $54.99; 92 proof/46% ABV
Double Char: 6-Year-Old Small Batch Bourbon Whiskey – SRP: $54.99; 88 proof/44% ABV
10-Year-Old Small Batch Bourbon Whiskey – SRP: $89.99; 92 proof/46% ABV

Bib & Tucker Double Char will be available nationally, in-store and online, beginning August 2023.

Image: Bib & Tucker

June 6, 2023by David Klemt David Klemt No Comments

2 Big Bourbons: High Proof, Heavy Flavor

2 Big Bourbons: High Proof, Heavy Flavor

by David Klemt

Be on the lookout for two innovative, big bourbons that are heavy on flavor and boldly offer striking drinking experiences.

One of these whiskeys, luckily, is available now. That means if you can get your hands on it, this particular bourbon has arrived in time for National Bourbon Day and National Old Fashioned Day.

And, of course, it’s also here in time to help celebrate Father’s Day.

Agonizing as it is, the other bourbon will make its appearance in August. However, it’s big, bold flavors will be an excellent way to end summer and start fall.

Let’s take a look at these two dramatic drams.

Woodford Reserve Master’s Collection Batch Proof 124.7

Let’s start with the bourbon available today.

The latest release in the Master’s Collection is Batch Proof 124.7. This limited-edition Woodford Reserve release is, as the name suggests, a high-proof heavy hitter.

Master Distiller Elizabeth McCall and Master Distiller Emeritus Chris Morris worked on this release to showcase their incredible proficiency in coaxing a complex array of flavors from blending whiskeys from different barrels.

However, they didn’t stop there. McCall and Morris bottled this year’s limited edition Master’s Collection expression at 124.7 proof. For comparison, standard Woodford Reserve expressions—Straight Bourbon, Double Oaked, and Rye—are bottled at 90.4 proof.

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A post shared by Woodford Reserve (@woodfordreserve)

According to tasting notes provided by Woodford Reserve, guests can expect Batch Proof 124.7 to pour a burnt orange color. On the nose, nutty toasted almond, cherry, and overripe banana, plus hints of oak, citrus zest, and, unsurprisingly, pepper.

“The trademark flavors of Woodford Reserve are even more pronounced—and more bold—in this celebrated annual release,” says McCall. “It’s a high-proof bourbon with complex flavors.”

Those lucky enough to locate a bottle will be treated to peppery baking spice, cardamom, and pine on the palate, finishing with leather, dry vanilla, and cedar.

No word on how hot this bourbon sips, but I expect Woodford’s trademark smoothness. Suffice to say, however, this isn’t a beginner’s bourbon.

Batch Proof 124.7 retails for $129.99 and is available now at the Woodford Reserve distillery, so it’s time to hit up your reps, call in favors, or take a trip to Versailles, Kentucky.

Bib & Tucker Double Char Bourbon

Above, the high-proof heavy hitter. Now, the innovative heavy flavor release.

They’re making us wait for it but this Bib & Tucker Small Batch Bourbon release certainly appears to worth our collective patience. Something savory, smoky, and smooth this way comes.

The inspiration for this unique bourbon comes from the rustic corners of the culinary world. Double Char is meant to evoke the sensory experience of enjoying food cooked on open fire.

“I can’t wait for consumers to try this delicious expression,” says Tom Steffanci, president of Deutsch Family Wine & Spirits. “Double Char spends just the right amount of time in the second heavily charred barrel, creating a savory, smoky character that adds a whole new dimension to the bourbon.”

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Bib & Tucker Bourbon (@bibandtuckerbourbon)

This innovative Tennessee bourbon is rested for six years in new white American oak barrels. Double Char is then aged for at least five months in a new barrel that was heavily charred and smoked.

Notes provided by Bib & Tucker reveal, as expected, smoke and toasted oak on the nose. However, those notes are balanced by cinnamon, clove, and dulce de leche.

On the palate, Double Char delivers white smoke, vanilla, sugar maple, sweet corn, and toasted cinnamon. Oak, white smoke, and vanilla stand out on the medium to long finish.

Personally, I can’t wait to get my hands on a bottle.

Click here to listen to episodes 32 and 59 of the Bar Hacks podcast. The former features Woodford Reserve, while the latter features Bib & Tucker.

Images courtesy of Bib & Tucker and Woodford Reserve

October 7, 2022by David Klemt David Klemt No Comments

7 Days Until Old Fashioned Week!

7 Days Until Elijah Craig Old Fashioned Week!

by David Klemt

In just seven days operators, their front-of-house teams and guests will have the opportunity to participate in Elijah Craig Old Fashioned Week.

Those who choose to join in on the fun will help generate funds for crucial cause. Further, participation means joining forces with some revered heavy hitters in the industry.

For example, Broken Shaker’s Chicago and Miami locations are taking part, as is Cure in New Orleans. Birdie G’s in Los Angeles, the Denver outpost of Death & Co., and Houston’s Julep are also participating. And then there’s LA Jackson from Nashville, the legendary Leyenda in Brooklyn, DC’s Silver Lyan, and Philly’s R&D all joining the cause.

A Great Cause

As stated, this is more than a cocktail promotion. Elijah Craig Old Fashioned Week supports an important cause and fantastic organization.

The cause is providing F&B professionals who are struggling with financial assistance, and the aide comes from the Southern Smoke Foundation.

Since 2015, Southern Smoke has been dedicated to raising funds to help individuals in the F&B space. The non-profit organization strives to help our industry peers in need persevere through crises.

From raising funds for the MS Society, establishing the Emergency Relief Fund, and providing free mental healthcare, Southern Smoke consistently proves themselves a trustworthy industry partner. By 2021, Southern Smoke had donated more than $5 million in financial aid to industry workers affected by Covid-19.

Take Part

Elijah Craig, the storied small-batch bourbon and rye producer in the Heaven Hill Distillery portfolio, makes participating simple and fun.

Unsurprisingly, we at KRG Hospitality love an activation and promotion that’s easy to execute and fun for everyone in the building. This year, Elijah Craig Old Fashioned Week takes place from October 14 through October 23.

To help raise money for Southern Smoke’s crisis management mission, encourage your bar team and guests to post pictures of their Old Fashioneds to social media. All one has to do is include tag @ElijahCraig and the hashtag #OldFashioned Week. Elijah Craig will take it from there, donating $5 for every post up to $100,000.

I’m confident that over the course of ten days we can all come together and flood social media with 20,000 images of delicious, well-crafted Old Fashioneds.

To learn more about last year’s Old Fashioned week, listen to Bar Hacks episode 52. Our very special guest on this episode is Lynn House, the 2022 Best US Brand Ambassador Spirited Award winner.

Get Creative

Now, I’d normally include the particular drink recipe here but I think—I believe—we all know how to make an Old Fashioned by now. So, I’m going to encourage all participating operators and their bar teams to create a small, signature Old Fashioned LTO menu or Elijah Craig Old Fashioned Week.

Also, to get those creative juices flowing, here’s the recipe for the Elijah Craig Rosemary Old Fashioned:

Craft rosemary cinnamon syrup by combining 1 cup of water with 2 cinnamon sticks, 2 rosemary sprigs, and 1 medium navel orange in a saucepan over medium heat. Bring to a simmer, add one cup of Demerara sugar and stir until it dissolves. Strain into a clean, sanitized bottle.
Combine 2.5 oz. of Elijah Craig Small Batch Bourbon, a half-ounce of housemade rosemary cinnamon syrup, and three dashes of orange bitters in a mixing glass with ice.
Stir and strain into rocks glass over a large ice cube, then garnish with a Maraschino cherry on a rosemary-sprig skewer. If you so choose, light the sprig on fire for a moment to generate some rosemary smoke.

Image: CHUTTERSNAP on Unsplash

September 16, 2022by David Klemt David Klemt No Comments

7 Awesome Whiskey Podcasts

7 Awesome Whiskey Podcasts

by David Klemt

Our National Bourbon Heritage Month celebration and inspiration continues with a roundup of seven of the best whiskey podcasts.

Of course we want you to listen to Bar Hacks for education, inspiration, and entertainment. However, we know it isn’t the only podcast you listen to.

Below you’ll find several whiskey-centric podcasts. These are absolutely some of the best podcasts out there if you’re seeking bourbon and whiskey knowledge.

So, after you catch up to your Bar Hacks listening, work the shows below into your rotation.

Cheers!

Whiskey Lore

As regular KRG Hospitality readers and newsletter subscribers know, we love diving into history and myths. When we’re researching a spirit, cocktail, or other beverage, we tend to find more fiction than fact. Of course, the facts are also just as interesting to us, so it’s a win-win for us and you.

So, it makes sense then that we’re kicking things off with Whiskey Lore. We love the rich and compelling stories that weave the intricate story of our industry. As it turns out, so does the Whiskey Lore podcast. Currently, the podcast is digging into the history and lore of Irish whiskey.

Latest episode: Irish Whiskey Pt. 5: The Lore of the River Boyne; Marrowbone Lane; Finding Old Irish Pure Pot Still

Bourbon & Banter

Honestly, I don’t know that I can describe the Bourbon & Banter podcast any better than the minds behind the show:

“Are you seeking a bourbon podcast that will educate and entertain you without the extra bloat associated with kissing a brand’s ass in search of advertising revenue or free samples? If so, welcome home my friend… In all seriousness though, give us a listen and you’ll find that we’re honest to a fault. You won’t find us pulling any punches when it comes to new bourbon reviews or when we explore the latest industry news and consumer trends.”

Latest episode: The Doctor is In – Bourbon & Banter Podcast Special Episode

The Fred Minnick Show

If you’re a whiskey lover and don’t know the name Fred Minnick, I would find that shocking. While not always a straight-up whiskey-only podcast, the Fred Minnick Show format is compelling. Rather than focus solely on reviewing whiskey, whiskey news, and interviews with industry experts, Fred also chats with guests about a wide range of topics.

Latest episode: What’s Up With Tom Brady? NFL Network’s Mike Garafolo Returns to Talk Quarterbacks | Russell’s Reserve 6 Year

WhiskyCast

The WhiskyCast podcast has been going strong since 2005. That makes this the world’s longest-running whiskey podcast. With 17 years’ worth of podcast goodness to listen to, you’ll never be without something whisky-focused to listen to and learn from. Their most current episoide is number 966, which is just staggeringly impressive.

Latest episode: Brother’s Bond: A Bourbon “Bromance”

Bourbon Lens

With nearly 200 episodes available, Bourbon Lens is delving deep into everything bourbon. However, they also discuss other types of whiskey through conversations with founders, blenders, and other industry experts. This is a must-listen podcast for whiskey lovers.

Latest episode: Off Hours with Bourbon Lens Episode 10: Sam Montgomery from Bardstown Bourbon Co.

Bourbon Pursuit

According to the show itself, Bourbon Pursuit is “the official podcast of bourbon.” With episodes going live every few days you’ll never be without something to listen to with this podcast. Bourbon news, bourbon reviews, bourbon interviews… Bourbon Pursuit may truly be the official pod of bourbon.

Latest episode: TWiB: Kentucky Bourbon Benefit Raises $1.4M, Little Book Series Launches “To The Finish”, Four Roses 2022 Limited Edition Small Batch

Dads Drinking Bourbon

The hosts of Dads Drinking Bourbon want you to #rethinkhowyoudrink. With this podcast you’ll get to hear blind tastings, side-by-side reviews, and interviews with people in the industry. While the hosts don’t claim to be experts, they do an excellent job providing listeners with useful information. As they say themselves, “At the end of the day, we know you just want to know if the whiskey is worth spending any money on.” Also, congratulations to the Dads Drinking Bourbon team on their 400th episode!

Latest episode: Review: IT’S OUR 400TH EPISODE! And we drink Barrell Batch 33

Image: Andrzej Nowak from Pixabay

September 7, 2022by David Klemt David Klemt No Comments

6 Bar Hacks Bourbon Episodes

6 Bar Hacks Bourbon Episodes

by David Klemt

We have the honor of speaking with some of the best and most engaging people in the hospitality, foodservice, and drinks industries on the Bar Hacks podcast.

Several of our amazing guests have come on to talk about one of our favorite spirits: bourbon. To celebrate National Bourbon Heritage Month we’ve rounded up most bourbon-focused Bar Hacks episodes.

Cheers!

Episode 25

One of our favorite people in the industry—and in life in general—popped by to speak with Bar Hacks. Megan Breier is one of the most engaging, entertaining and knowledgeable educators in the hospitality and spirits industries.

In this episode, Megan explains what sets Maker’s Mark apart from other bourbons, some of the amazing activations she’s executed, Private Selection, Maker’s 101, Margie Samuels’ contributions to the brand and industry, and more. Listen now!

Episode 28

Lyre’s Spirits crafts alcohol-free spirits that masterfully mimic their full-proof counterparts. Bar Hacks co-host David Klemt sits down with Lyre’s brand ambassador, bartender and buddy Tim Rita to chat about the brand.

On episode 28 you’ll learn about one of the fastest-growing brands in one of the fastest-growing beverage categories. How is an alcohol-free brand relevant on World Whisky Day? Lyre’s makes American Malt, a zero-proof take on bourbon.

Episode 32

One of the most iconic bourbon producers is undoubtedly Woodford Reserve. So, when we were given the opportunity to speak with Woodford Reserve brand ambassador Michael Toscano we leapt at the chance.

Michael stops by to talk about the Kentucky Derby, crafting the perfect Mint Julep, maximizing the operator-brand-rep relationship, and more. Check it out now!

Episode 39

Anthony “Terry” Bohlinger, national brand ambassador for new William Grant & Sons whiskey brand Fistful of Bourbon, drops by Bar Hacks. Terry talks about launching a brand during a pandemic, representing an irreverent brand that doesn’t take itself too seriously, the hilarious videos Fistful of Bourbon created to introduce the brand, lessons learned during his journey in hospitality, and more. Listen here!

Episode 52

Lynn House, national spirits specialist and portfolio mixologist for Heaven Hill, drops by Bar Hacks to speak with host David Klemt about the second annual Old Fashioned Week.

Lynn and David also discuss bourbon, rye, hospitality, building balanced cocktails, and how trust plays a role in educating guests so you and your team can introduce them to new drinks and experiences. Listen now!

Episode 59

Whiskey expert, spirits judge, and sommelier Theo Rutherford stops by the Bar Hacks podcast to talk about Bib & Tucker Small Batch Bourbon, a prominent addition to the Deutsch Family of wine and spirits. Rutherford shares the Bib & Tucker brand story, what sets the brand apart from other bourbons, and why the 6 Year expression appeals to all categories of whiskey drinkers. He also shares tips for tasting bourbon, including how easily Bib & Tucker wins over non-whiskey drinkers.

Listen now to learn why Theo wants you to smell everything and stop swirling your whiskey at tastings.

Image: Seej Nguyen on Pexels

September 6, 2022by David Klemt David Klemt No Comments

KRG Hospitality’s Top Bourbon Articles

KRG Hospitality’s Top Bourbon Articles

by David Klemt

To inspire and help you program for National Bourbon Heritage Month, enjoy this roundup of our top bourbon articles.

For bourbon lovers specifically and those who appreciate whiskey in general, this is an exciting month. You can leverage that excitement throughout the month of September.

From limited time offers to pour specials and offering guests to try new bottles, National Bourbon Heritage Month is perfect for becoming a person’s go-to bourbon bar. Our resources below will help you achieve that status.

Cheers!

9 Bottles for Bourbon Heritage Month

Nine awesome bottles in three separate pricing categories. Here you’ll find bottles that retail for less than $25, several under $100, and a few that cost up to $150. Click here to read.

The 30 Days of Bourbon Challenge

In 2011, bourbon devotee and advocate Patrick Garrett founded Bourbon & Banter “to spread the Bourbon Gospel.” One way they accomplish this mission is through 30 Days of Bourbon. This challenge is simple but intriguing: Try a different bourbon every day in September. Click here to learn more.

National Bourbon Day: 2022 Trends

The history and heritage of bourbon is important. As America’s native spirit, bourbon’s history is particularly important to the nation. However, innovation and trends are crucial to the future of bourbon. In this article we examine four important 2022 bourbon trends. Click here to read.

7 Whiskeys for National Bourbon Day

Before we celebrate National Bourbon Heritage Month each year we celebrate National Bourbon Day. It’s always fun to see what new and exciting bottles are available, like these seven bottles from 2021. Click here.

8 Bottles for Bourbon Day

Of course, we’re celebrating National Bourbon Heritage Month 2022 this year. So, here are eight bottles worth checking out and adding to your inventory. Click here to review these bottles.

8 Bourbon Cocktails You Need to Know

Contrary to what some purists will tell you (whether you ask them or not), bourbon is great in a cocktail. From the ubiqutious Old Fashioned to the modern classic Billionaire, this article dives into eight bourbon cocktails you and your bar team need to know. And, of course, they’re perfect for National Bourbon Heritage Month limited time only menu. Click here to learn more.

7 Great Books About Bourbon

Sure, it’s awesome to enjoy a bourbon with friends. But what about pouring a dram of your favorite bourbon while reading about bourbon? Grab one or more of these books, pair them with a beautiful bourbon, and start expanding your whiskey knowledge today. Click here for our book recommendations.

Rabbit Hole Resources: Bourbon 101

When it comes to learning about a particular spirit, those producing them tend to know the most. So, seeking education straight from the source is a smart move. Rabbit Hole is creating, curating, and growing free bourbon resources. Have a question? They’ve got the answers, and then some. Click here.

Image: Thomas Park on Unsplash