Distillery Highlight: The Rich Heritage of Bulleit Bourbon

Nestled in the heart of Shelbyville, Kentucky, the Bulleit Distillery stands as a testament to the legacy of bourbon craftsmanship. For bourbon enthusiasts, this destination offers a unique opportunity to explore the storied history and exceptional quality that defines Bulleit Bourbon.

A Journey Through Bourbon Country

Bulleit Bourbon’s distillery presence extends across two iconic Kentucky locations – Lebanon, Kentucky, and Shelbyville, Kentucky. Open to visitors from Tuesday through Sunday, you have ample opportunities to explore the intricate process that results in each flavorful sip.

During the tour, you’ll explore the impressive twelve 20,000-gallon tanks that reach three stories in height. You’ll also have the chance to savor drinks crafted in collaboration with world-class bartenders at the brand’s cocktail bar.

Why The Name, Bulleit? 

The Bulleit brand of bourbon whiskey has a heritage dating back to the 1830s, with its roots traced to distiller Augustus Bulleit. His bourbon was unique for its high-rye content, setting it apart from other bourbons of its time. Today, Bulleit continues to honor Augustus’ recipe and maintains a high standard of quality.

The Taste of Bulleit Bourbon

Bulleit Bourbon’s signature taste comes from its meticulous blend of rye, corn, and barley malt, each carefully selected for its unique flavor characteristics. Special yeast strains introduce subtle nuances to the flavor profile, and pure Kentucky limestone-filtered water ensures a smooth finish. Together, these elements create a unique and complex flavor that sets Bulleit Bourbon apart in the world of whiskey.

Bulleit

A Classic to Sip and Savor: The Bulleit Old Fashioned

Ingredients:

2 oz Bulleit Bourbon

2 dashes Angostura bitters

1 sugar cube

Orange peel

Ice

Instructions:

  1. In an Old Fashioned glass, muddle the sugar cube and Angostura bitters.
  2. Add a large ice cube.
  3. Pour Bulleit Bourbon over the ice and stir.
  4. Garnish with a twist of orange peel.
  5. Sip and savor your classic Bulleit Old Fashioned!

RTD Cocktails for Tailgating

Football season in Tennessee means one thing: it’s time for some tailgating fun! Whether you’re cheering on the Titans or the Volunteers, one essential element can level up your tailgate experience: Ready-to-Drink (RTD) cocktails. Convenient and packed with flavor, these cocktails below are the perfect companions for your game day celebrations.

Jameson RTD

Jameson RTD Cocktails

  1. Jameson, Ginger & Lime in a Can: Kick off your tailgate with the refreshing combination of Jameson Irish Whiskey, Ginger Ale, and Lime. It’s a lower ABV option that’s perfect for those warm game days. Just chill it and enjoy it straight from the can. The zesty kick of ginger and lime will keep your spirits high as you root for your favorite Tennessee football teams.
  2. Jameson Cola in a Can: For those on the move, Jameson Cola is your go-to choice. It’s a unique blend of the smooth Jameson Irish Whiskey and classic cola. Sip it straight from the can or over ice for a quick and satisfying drink that will fuel your tailgating enthusiasm.
  3. Jameson Lemonade in a Can: Keep it simple, easy, and oh-so-refreshing with Jameson Irish Whiskey and Lemonade. It’s the perfect match for gatherings with friends, whether you’re tailgating at Nissan Stadium or Neyland Stadium. Just pop the can open and let the good times roll.

 

Crown Royal

Crown Royal RTD Cocktails

  1. Crown Royal Whisky Lemonade: It’s a refreshingly light and easy-drinking cocktail that’s tailor-made for warmer games. Sip on this delightful blend while you soak up the Tennessee sun at your tailgate.
  2. Crown Royal Peach Tea: A southern sweet tea with a royal twist, this variety combines Crown Royal whisky, peach flavor, and brewed tea. It’s like a southern sweet tea with a royal twist.
  3. Crown Royal Whisky & Cola: A Gold medalist at the 2021 competition, this variety pairs Crown Royal whisky with cola for a classic taste that never goes out of style.
  4. Crown Royal Washington Apple: Tasting like victory in a can, this variety features Crown Royal whisky with apple and sparkling cranberry flavors.

Crown Royal

Whether you’re sipping on Jameson’s Irish Whiskey creations or indulging in the royal flavors of Crown Royal, these convenient cocktails are the ideal game-day companions.

Best Bourbon and Cigar Pairings for the Fall

For those who appreciate the finer things in life, the marriage of bourbon and cigars is a timeless pursuit. Whether you’re a seasoned connoisseur or a curious explorer, the flavors and textures that emerge from this pairing are an experience like no other. As the fall season ushers in a sense of crispness, it’s the ideal time to gather around a table, light up a cherished cigar, and pour a glass of exceptional bourbon.

Let’s explore three exceptional bourbons, each with its own distinctive character, and the cigars that gracefully complement their profiles.

Jefferson’s Ocean Aged at Sea® Bourbon

Jefferson's Bourbon

Picture barrels of bourbon journeying across the world’s oceans, buffeted by the constant sea motion and ever-changing weather. This unique expedition defines Jefferson’s Ocean Aged at Sea Bourbon, shaping a flavor profile that’s intriguing and captivating.

Pairing Recommendation: Enhance the maritime complexity of this bourbon by selecting a Maduro cigar. The robust notes of chocolate, coffee, and spices in a Maduro meld seamlessly with the caramel, sea salt, and espresso tones of Jefferson’s Ocean. Together, they craft a harmonious blend of rich flavors that endure well beyond each sip and puff.

BULLEIT Bourbon

Bulleit Bourbon

Steeped in over 150 years of history, Bulleit Bourbon is a masterpiece born from a unique blend of rye, corn, and barley malt. Its distinct spiciness and smooth finish make it a staple in the world of bourbons.

Pairing Recommendation: For the Bulleit Bourbon, a Corojo cigar is an ideal companion. The medium-bodied Corojo offers notes of cedar, nuts, and spices that gracefully enhance the gentle spiciness and sweet oak aromas of the bourbon. The combination brings out the best in both, creating a balanced and flavorful experience that’s both soothing and invigorating.

BLADE AND BOW KENTUCKY STRAIGHT Bourbon WHISKEY

Blade and Bow

A tribute to tradition and history, Blade and Bow Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey is aged using the unique Solera System, resulting in a whiskey that pays homage to the legendary Stitzel-Weller distillery.

Pairing Recommendation: The character of Blade and Bow is beautifully complemented by a Habano cigar. The medium-bodied nature of the Habano, with its notes of pepper, leather, and earth, strikes a perfect balance with the bourbon’s subtle fruit aromas and warm winter spices.

Elevate Your Wine Experience with Michael McNeil’s Wine Tools: Decanters and Decanting

Michael McNeil, Georgia’s only Master Sommelier and Georgia Crown’s Director of Fine Wine, brings his expertise and passion for wine to create a collection of exceptional wine tools. With over 18 years of experience, McNeil shares the importance of decanters and decanting, showcasing how these tools enhance the enjoyment and presentation of wine. He explores the benefits for trade professionals, restaurants, and wine enthusiasts alike.

Trade: Unlocking the Full Potential of Wine

For trade professionals, such as sommeliers and wine buyers, understanding the art of decanting is crucial. Double decanting, the process of pouring wine from one vessel to another, exposes the wine to oxygen and allows it to open up. This practice is recommended before serving, especially for wines that benefit from aeration. 

Restaurants: Aesthetics and Enhanced Service

In restaurants, the visual appeal of decanters adds to the overall experience. McNeil suggests decanters come in aesthetically pleasing shapes and sizes, elevating the presentation and service of wine. By swiftly decanting the wine from the bottle into the decanter, the wine is exposed to oxygen, which enhances its flavors. Moreover, decanting is particularly crucial for older wines as it helps separate the sediment deposit from the clear liquid, ensuring a seamless drinking experience. These decanters also facilitate club service and portion control, making them an invaluable addition to any restaurant’s wine service.

Consumers: The Perfect Gift and Wine Display

For wine enthusiasts and consumers, Michael McNeil shares that decanters are a perfect gift item and a wonderful addition to a wine cellar. Whether it’s a basic and efficient carafe for everyday use or an exotic and larger vessel that showcases unique service techniques, these decanters provide an elevated wine experience. They not only enhance the flavors of the wine but also serve as stunning displays for wine collections. One notable decanter from McNeil’s collection is the Riedel Fatto A Mano Mamba Decanter, which exudes elegance and sophistication.