Bourbon is an American staple only produced in the U.S. September is National Bourbon Heritage Month, so why not celebrate? In just a few days’ time, you can experience the Kentucky Bourbon Trail, a great way to become engulfed in the spirit’s culture, history and products firsthand. While there are many great distilleries in the U.S., Kentucky is the perfect place to start. It has more barrels of aging bourbon than it does people!
It’s best to have a plan when you go, and don’t forget to pick up your Kentucky Bourbon Trail Passport to get a stamp at each destination. There’s Maker’s Mark, Heaven Hill, Four Roses, Wild Turkey, and plenty of smaller distilleries along the way. And each tour is different from the next. With a few distilleries dating back to pre-Prohibition, the history and culture at each are unique. Jimmy Russell has been the master distiller at Wild Turkey for more than 60 years. He is often around to take pictures with guests and sign their bourbon bottles. You can dip your own bottle in the famous red wax at Maker’s Mark, or take in beautiful Spanish architecture dating back to the early 1900s at Four Roses. End each tour with a tasting and chocolate bourbon ball, and repeat!
Although Kentucky is probably the most well-known bourbon-producing region thanks to its limestone-rich water and changing seasons, the spirit can be made anywhere following a strict set of laws. The main ones state that it must be made in the U.S., contain at least 51 percent corn in mash bill, and be aged in new, charred oak barrels (where it gets its flavor). No color or flavor can be added. If you are new to bourbon, start with a lower proof. Basil Hayden’s is a great option at 80 proof. A classic Old Fashioned is the perfect way to enjoy the American spirit. Happy September!
old fashioned
1 sugar cube
Dash of Angostura bitters
Splash of soda water
2 oz. bourbon
1 large ice cube
Lemon or orange peel for garnish
Place the sugar cube in an Old Fashioned glass. Add a dash of bitters and splash of soda water. Stir the sugar until it’s dissolved, and pour in bourbon. Stir again, add ice cube, and garnish with lemon or orange peel.
Justin Wolf is assistant restaurant manager at the Four Seasons Hotel St. Louis.