National Bourbon Day

Happy National Bourbon Day! Did you even know this was a thing? No? Well, you’re in the right place for an awesome recipe and some good ol’ fashioned celebration of this amazing spirit (my personal favorite).

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Apparently every June 14th, whiskey enthusiasts get a chance to celebrate one of the United States’ most beloved spirits. This day is specifically dedicated to appreciating bourbon, a whiskey that has become deeply ingrained in American history and culture. And since it’s next week, we thought we’d get you ready to celebrate in style, complete with cocktails & tons of info to bore– I mean, impress– your friends with on the big day.

So mark your event calendar, and let’s get ready for Bourbon Day!

 

Bourbon Day History

The origins of National Bourbon Day are somewhat unclear, much like the early history of bourbon itself. Although I can’t find an actual year for when it even became a thing, the day has certainly been embraced by bourbon lovers and industry insiders as a way to honor this distinctively American whiskey.

In fact, bourbon whiskey is the official American spirit, as declared by then-President Lyndon B. Johnson in 1964– There was even an Act of Congress and everything!

While the exact heritage of Bourbon Day is perhaps unknown, it has gained traction over the years through social media and bourbon enthusiast communities, promoting events and tastings across the country. I mean, did it begin in1964? I’ve found no evidence to prove that, but it would make sense that it became official sometime after President Johnson’s declaration that bourbon was thee American drink of choice.

 

 

The choice of June 14th as National Bourbon Day may in fact be arbitrary, but legend has it that this was the first day bourbon was ever distilled– by Reverend Elijah Craig in 1789 (Yes, the Elijah Craig of the now-famous bourbon distillery). Who knows if this is true, but it’s kind of fun to believe…

Celebrations of National Bourbon Day include everything from bourbon tastings and distillery tours to educational seminars about the history and impact of bourbon. It’s a day for both bourbon aficionados and novices to explore the awesomeness of one of the best-loved alcoholic spirits, from classic cocktails like the Old Fashioned and the Mint Julep to innovative modern concoctions like the Paper Plane.

 

 

What is Bourbon?

In case you’re not super familiar with it, here are a few key facts to introduce you to this delicious spirit:

• By law, bourbon production must take place in the United States; while there is no designated U.S. state, a high percentage of distilleries (approximately 95%) reside in Kentucky.
• The primary ingredient of the bourbon mash must be corn, at least 51% (with the average being about 70%, contributing to its sweetness).
• Bourbon must be aged in new, charred oak barrels.
• It has a complex flavors with hints of vanilla and caramel, making it a sweeter, more versatile spirit than its spicy rye counterpart.
• While the average alcohol content is about 45%, bourbon is legally not allowed to exceed 79.5% ABV (alcohol by volume) or be bottled at lower than 40% (80 proof).
• It cannot contain additional flavor, coloring, or other additives.

 

 

These requirements and procedures make sure that the popular spirit maintains its unique character and distinct flavor profile.

With deep roots stretching back to the late 18th century, bourbon is an intricate part of American heritage. The story goes that its production began when Scots-Irish settlers and other Europeans residing in parts of Virginia (now Kentucky) started distilling surplus corn into whiskey– and then the bourbon business was born.

While I won’t go into all of it here, for more about bourbon, its rich history, how it’s made, and info on different whiskies, check out this article as well as this one.

 

 

Bourbon Brands We Love

Don’t already have a favorite bottle of bourbon? Here is an array of options to help get the celebration started:

• Angel’s Envy (approximately $40-45)
• Four Roses small batch bourbon (approximately $38, although they have a standard bourbon for less)
• Buffalo Trace (approximately $30)
• Makers Mark (a great standard at about $25– It’s my favorite bourbon for everyday.)
• Elijah Craig (from Heaven Hill distillery, about $23-25)
• Woodford Reserve (approximately $30-35– or try their double oaked bourbon for about $45)
• Best cheap bourbon: Evan Williams (also from Heaven Hill, about $15– or upgrade to their single barrel for approximately $30)
• Special occasion bourbon: Old Forrester 1910 ($60-65), 1920 ($50), or single barrel ($75-80)

Have no idea where to start? I suggest having a bourbon-tasting party with your buddies to see which brand will become your new favorite go-to.

 

 

Popular Bourbon Cocktails to Try

There are plenty of delicious cocktails with bourbon to try; I’ve curated a list of some of my personal favorites– Just click the name to go to the recipe page:

• Paper Plane
• Boulevardier
• Mint Julep
• Manhattan (Note that some people make this with rye whiskey, but I definitely prefer it with bourbon instead.)
• Old Fashioned 
• Bourbon Sour (a Whiskey Sour specifically made with bourbon)

 

 

Whether you’re a long-time bourbon lover or just getting acquainted with this amber spirit, National Bourbon Day is the perfect time to raise a glass to the rich heritage and continued popularity of bourbon.

And we’re really excited to share a unique mixed drink recipe from our friends at Angel’s Envy Bourbon, just for this special day. Hope you love it, and definitely let us know in the comments how you’re celebrating National Bourbon Day. Cheers!