The Kentucky Whisky Chicks have really been picking up steam lately. Last month’s Bourbon Mixer at the Evan Williams Bourbon Experience raised over $10,000 for the Coalition for the Homeless. Now the Chicks are moving toward education. Tonight I was invited to participate in the first Kentucky Sampler at Westport Whiskey and Wine in Westport Village. It was the first in a series of three mix-and-mingle bourbon education experiences. Chris Zaborowski, owner of Westport Whiskey, led the group in a tasting and history lesson.
Learning whiskey can be an intimidating proposition. If you live in Louisville you are expected to have all the knowledge you need from birth. This is where the Whisky Chicks come in. These events are designed for everyone from the beginner to the intermediate whiskey geek. The atmosphere is casual and you can always feel comfortable asking questions.
This evening’s session focused on the Salt River region of Kentucky. All the bourbons poured tonight were from this region that includes Bardstown and Clermont. The basic principles of bourbon were covered for the beginners, but the discussion also included the slightly geekier definition of toasted versus charred staves as well as the difference between wheated and rye mash bills.
The next event will be the Kentucky River Sampler featuring Four Roses, Woodford Reserve, Buffalo Trace, Wild Turkey, and Town Branch products. It will be held October 8 at the same location. Tickets are already nearly sold out and won’t be available until late today, so click here to find yours. See you there?
Photos Courtesy of Maggie Kimberl, cover photo courtesy of shutterstock.com
