Whether you are just starting out your career as a Citizen Bourbon Ambassador or you’re already a seasoned pro, there’s always more to learn about Kentucky’s Native Spirit. Here are some of the many ways to bolster your bourbon knowledge in the Possibility City.
1. The Filson Bourbon Academy [4] is an all-day class offered several times a year, led by Filson Bourbon [5] Historian and Author Mike Veach. You will learn everything from bourbon history to tasting theory. They also have shorter events such as the Filson Bourbon Salon at Oxmoor Farm series.
2. The Kentucky Derby Museum Legends Series [6] is a great way to meet the folks responsible for bourbon’s recent surge in popularity. It is hosted by The Derby Museum [7] Bourbon Authority Fred Minnick [8].
3. Haymarket Whiskey Bar [9] hosts bourbon education classes [10] Tuesdays thru Saturdays at 5:30 by appointment for only $40 per person. This is a great way to learn the basics any time of the year.
4. The Bourbon Classic [11]happens only once a year, but it’s a veritable clearinghouse [12] for all things bourbon-related. There’s a cocktail contest, lectures with Master Distillers, and more amazing food than you can imagine.
5. The Silver Dollar [13] hosts Bourbon 101, 102, and 103 about once a year. Classes fill up fast, so keep tabs on their Facebook page [14] for info on specific dates.
6. Mint Julep Tours [15] is based in Louisville, but they can take you to some of the best distilleries in the state. The tour guides really know their stuff, and not having to do any of the driving provides the added bonus of getting to enjoy the scenery.
7. Master Distiller Nights are everywhere, especially during the weeks leading up to Derby. Haymarket Whiskey Bar has Master Distiller nights the third Monday of every month.
8. The Bourbon Society [16], The Whisky Chicks [17], and the Whiskey Barrel Society [18] are great organizations that connect you with other bourbon lovers in Louisville so you can learn together.
9. The Evan Williams Experience [19] on Whiskey Row offers many different ways to experience bourbon, from tours [20]and events to tastings. They also offer a new Speakeasy tour [21] on the weekends.
10. Moonshine University [22] offers a beginning to end, hands-on class for bourbon enthusiasts.
Photos Courtesy of The Filson Bourbon Academy and Maggie Kimberl