We’re fortunate here in Louisville to have so many opportunities to learn about bourbon from the Masters. One of the best events I’ve ever had the pleasure of attending on a regular basis is The Legends Series at The Kentucky Derby Museum, hosted by Bourbon Authority Fred Minnick. Minnick is a journalist by trade, which comes through in the format of the event. A different Bourbon Master is chosen for each event, and Minnick’s questions can be hard-hitting.
The next Legends Series will take place June 2nd at 5:30. The guest this time is Bill Samuels, Jr. of Maker’s Mark. According to the event page, “Growing up on Distiller’s Row in Bardstown, Kentucky – son of Maker’s Mark Founder Bill Samuels, Sr. and godson of Jim Beam – Bill Samuels, Jr. has been an eyewitness to many milestones in bourbon history and has made history himself. A legend in the bourbon business, the seventh generation distiller has been hailed as many things: a maverick, one of the last true bourbon barons, a marketing genius, a visionary and the best friend the Kentucky bourbon industry has ever had. Bill’s father forever changed the bourbon industry when he introduced Maker’s Mark, the first ever premium bourbon, in 1953. . . Retirement doesn’t exactly suit Bill, who has never sat still a minute in his life, so instead of heading off to the golf course, he is now Maker’s Mark Chairman Emeritus.”
There will be plenty of opportunities to ask questions, meet Samuels, and even get your bottles signed during this event. There’s also food and cocktails, as well as a bourbon tasting. Click here for more information.
Photos Courtesy of Maker's Mark
