The Bourbon Classic brings together the best of the Bourbon and culinary worlds through a collection of rare, interactive events. Infused with exceptional tastings, workshops and sips, these events always thrill the Bourbon connoisseur and enthusiast. The multi-day event takes place at multiple stops around Louisville, Kentucky and around the state at various distilleries.
Riding high as the location for Season 16 of “Top Chef,” Kentucky Tourism Commissioner Kristen Branscum is particularly excited about The Bourbon State’s foodie chops, “Kentucky is internationally known for its bourbon, but its food, chefs, restaurants and producers are helping the state gain notoriety as a top culinary destination—ultimately driving visitors seeking an authentic taste of Kentucky. We believe ‘Top Chef’ has pushed our culinary scene into the spotlight and it’s just the beginning of the state’s culinary tourism growth. With our cuisine and bourbon on the agenda, a trip to Kentucky will always be a memorable experience.”
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The “SAVOR” event will be hosted at the family owned and operated Kentucky Peerless Distilling Company in downtown Louisville. Attendees will have a special evening with fourth and fifth generation owners, Corky and Carson Taylor, and Master Distiller Caleb Kilburn. Guests will learn about their storied history and what makes Peerless unique and will have the opportunity to sample and vote amongst three meticulously chosen single barrel expressions. The winning barrel will be bottled and available for purchase at the distillery.
The Cocktail & Culinary Challenge showcases world class mixology with classic and contemporary Bourbon cocktails paired with chefs’ Bourbon-themed culinary complement. Each chef will use Kentucky Proud products as a main ingredient, focusing on foods cultivated in The Bourbon State.
Attendees will have the opportunity to meet the chefs and mixologists and hear them discuss their creations. They’ll chat with distillers and representatives about what makes the brands unique and enjoy a tasting portion of each cocktail and small plate. A select panel of media personalities and industry experts will evaluate the cocktails and small plates individually and as pairings and select winners for each category. 2019 Judges will include Chef Robert Bleifer (Vice President Food Network), Sam Slaughter (Food and Drink Editor, The Manual) and Bartender Molly Wellmann (Owner Myrtle’s Punch House and Japps Since 1879).
Bourbon University is an opportunity to learn from industry experts through lively moderated discussions, demos and tastings. Sessions include a Michter’s Whiskey lineup pairing with smoked salmon, artisanal chocolate, spicy jerky, country ham, and delicate macaroons. Bourbon enthusiasts also have the opportunity to attend a session with Buffalo Trace Master Distiller Harlen Wheatley, who will showcase the distillery’s Experimental Whiskies.
Saturday’s events will conclude with Bourbon Classic TASTE. Attendees will savor Bourbon tastings from a wide array of distillers, then meet the distiller representatives and discuss what makes their product unique. Small plates and cocktail tastings will be available.
Bourbon Classic 2019 takes place February 20 – 23, 2019, in Louisville, the gateway to all the heritage and innovation of Kentucky’s Bourbon Country.
View all Kentucky Distilleries.
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