Schedule

• Day 1
• Day 2
• Day 3
• Day 4
• Day 5
• Day 6
• june 5, 2018
• 10:00am Knob Creek Private Barrel Selection - SOLD OUT10:00am- 2:00pm

  Select your very own barrel of Knob Creek Single Barrel Reserve Bourbon with seventh generation Jim Beam Master Distiller Fred Noe in Clermont, KY. You and a group of 20 people will go to the exclusive private barrel selection rackhouse to select 1 of 3 barrels to have bottled--all within your visit. The group will get to taste and bottle the selection of their choice in this rare, four-hour experience. The group will also tour the distillery and hand bottle their own Knob Creek Single Barrel Bourbon. We'll give you one bottle that's specially labeled with a metal plate to commemorate the 2018 Kentucky Bourbon Affair event. A bourbon inspired BBQ lunch will be provided inside the historic T. Jeremiah Beam Home. Each participant will also have the option of purchasing additional bottles from the barrel that is selected that day. A unique, one-of-a-kind experience not offered to the general public! $275 Learn More | See all Jim Beam Distillery Events.
• 12:00pm Four Roses Private Barrel Selection - SOLD OUT12:00pm- 3:00pm

  Join Master Distiller Brent Elliott in evaluating and selecting our first 2018 Kentucky Bourbon Affair Commemorative Private Selection Single Barrel Bourbon, which will be sold in the Four Roses Gift Shops. Brent and our guests will examine barrels of up to 10 of our unique Bourbon recipes, and vote to determine which will be bottled for the first 2018 KBA Commemorative Private Selection Single Barrel Bourbon. Each guest will use a copper whiskey thief to withdraw Bourbon directly from each barrel and use their nose and palate to select their favorite. Guests will individually transfer, hand label and cork their very own bottle. A southern style lunch buffet will be included as well as a special gift for each guest. $250 Learn More | See all Four Roses Distillery events.
• 1:00pm Wild Turkey Kentucky Spirit Barrel Selection - SOLD OUT1:00pm- 4:00pm

  Let the Russells share almost 100 years of distilling experience as they take you on a behind the scenes tour to experience Bourbon production. As a group, select from prized barrels of Kentucky Spirit and then gear up to bottle your own share on the production line! $275 Learn More | See all Wild Turkey Distillery events.
• 1:00pm Larceny Barrel Pick - Heaven Hill Distillery - SOLD OUT1:00pm- 4:00pm

  Join Heaven Hill Master Distiller Denny Potter inside one of our 55 rickhouses, where you will taste three different hand-selected barrels of Larceny Wheated Bourbon on the three different floors where each aged. During the tasting, guests will gain a renewed appreciation for the influence of location within the rickhouse on a barrel's color, nose, taste and finish. Denny will provide samples of each barrel at barrel proof and offer input on conditions within the rickhouse and how these affect maturation. Guests will receive a special KBA commemorative bottling of their personal favorite barrel at barrel proof and non-chill filtered and will have an opportunity to purchase bottles from the other barrels that were tasted. This is an unprecedented opportunity and not currently available to the public, as Larceny has never before been offered as a private barrel or at barrel proof! $275 Learn More | See all Heaven Hill Distillery events.
• 6:30pm Kentucky Frontier Feast Hosted by Bourbon Women Association6:30pm- 9:00PM

  Come explore the Frazier History Museum, where the world meets Kentucky, and the culinary heritage of the Bluegrass state with Bourbon Women, as they host the 2018 Opening Reception of the Bourbon Affair! Sample traditional fare from the Kentucky frontier as you check out the Lewis and Clark Experience. Sip Prohibition Era cocktails while touring the brand-new Kentucky Bourbon Trail Welcome Center and get a behind-the-scenes sneak peek at the early stages of the Spirit of Kentucky Exhibition. Top off the evening with a reception in the Rooftop Garden overlooking the Ohio River (the nation's first "superhighway" of bourbon) followed by dinner prepared by Kentucky's finest chefs. We promise savory, filling dishes from our past and present, but we'll probably omit the roast bear and braised squirrel. You'll also have an opportunity to taste history during this event! Golden Ticket holders will receive a tasting of the Final Reserve 43 year-old Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey and a limited number of additional tasting tickets are available! $125 Learn More | See all Bourbon Women events.
• june 6, 2018
• 10:00am Bourbon Science at Wilderness Trail Distillery - SOLD OUT10:00am- 2:00pm

  Join Wilderness Trail Distillery's co-founders, microbiologist Dr. Pat Heist and Master Distiller Shane Baker, as they take you from Bourbon's beginning with yeast and a mash bill to filling your own bottle in the barrelhouse. Taste and experience differences between yeast, sweet mash and sour mash, Kentucky water sources, various grains and processing. You also will examine how bacteria and other microbes play a role in flavor development. By now, you have worked up an appetite and we aim to please with a barbecue lunch prepared by award-winning pitmasters and founders of the Kentucky State BBQ Festival, Brad and Cindy Simmons. While enjoying the meal by Lucky Dog BBQ, you can continue discussions with Dr. Pat and Shane, the brains behind Wilderness Trail's distilling operations. Next, it's time to head to one of our rickhouses to put your expertise to work. This is the fun part, that has never been done before, so you will be the first! You will taste from a few hand selected barrels of our 4-5 year old Bourbon and 3-year old Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey. After sampling, you have the opportunity to be among the first ever to go old-school in the rickhouse and fill a 750 ml bottle of Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey from the barrel at cask strength to take home. Our Rye Whiskey is set to release in 2019-2020! This will be one of the super rare and limited opportunities to obtain a bottle of our 3-year old Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey, Single Barrel Cask Strength, while the majority of the barrels continue to age to our goal of 5+ years of maturation before being released. $150 Learn More | See all Wilderness Trail Distillery events.
• 10:00am Behind the Scenes Tour at Bulleit Distilling Co.10:00am- 1:00pm

  Join Tom Bulleit and the team at Bulleit Distilling Co. for a tour of the new Shelbyville, KY Distillery. We broke ground on the state-of-the-art, environmentally friendly and efficient distillery in August of 2014 and began producing whiskey in early 2017. Our mission has always been to focus on our whiskey production first, so we won't open to the public until next year. Hence why we are offering this behind the scenes tour to our passionate friends at the Kentucky Bourbon Affair. The experience will include a tour of the new Distillery, lunch and cocktails with Tom Bulleit, and a souvenir bottle of Bulleit Bourbon to mark the occasion. All guests MUST utilize KBA-provided transportation to this event from the host hotel. $175 Learn More | See all Bulleit Distilling events.
• 10:00am Barrel Proof Sharpshooter Challenge at Wild Turkey Distillery10:00am- 3:00pm

  Join the Masters, Eddie and Jimmy, as they guide you through the Wild Turkey Distillery located in Lawrenceburg, KY. Explore the rich history and age old process of making the finest Bourbon in the world along with hands on activities to give you even more insight into what it takes to produce this rich and unique liquid gold. Your day at Wild Turkey will include the rare opportunity to Shoot the Bird with the Masters in an onsite skeet shoot, led by industry professionals. Following the skeet shoot, you will be given an opportunity few will ever receive. You will be tasked to create your own blend of Wild Turkey during the Rare Breed Challenge where your creations will be put to the ultimate test-the palate of a Master Distiller! Your journey will come to an end at our historical Station Masters House. Dont worry about packing a brown bag, we have planned some of our favorite Kentucky themed dishes to be served. To top off your unique experience you some amazing Wild Turkey swag. We cant wait to see you at the Wild Turkey Distillery! $185 Learn More | See all Wild Turkey Distillery events.
• 10:00am Bondaroo - 120 Years of Bottled-in-Bonds, Evan Williams Bourbon Experience10:00am- 2:00pm

  Celebrate all bonded whiskeys with a look at the history, regulations and variations of American Bottled-In-Bond Straight Whiskey. Join Heaven Hill Master Distiller Denny Potter and Brand Ambassador, author and champion of bonded whiskeys, Bernie Lubbers, as they celebrate 120 years of Bottled-in-Bond history with tastings of several of our favorite bonded whiskeys, bespoke cocktails, and an exclusive insider tasting. From the birth of BIBs, to Prohibition, to the first golden age of American Whiskey, and finally to modern times, Denny and Bernie will inform, entertain, and keep your palate in bond-age. Plus, you will enjoy a special catered lunch and take home a unique gift to commemorate this special KBA event. $175 Learn More | See all Heaven Hill Distillery events.
• 10:00am Tempting the Taste Buds: An Immersion in Bourbon & Food10:00am- 3:00pm

  Take your Bourbon and culinary taste buds to the next level! Join Kentucky Bourbon Hall of Fame Master Distiller Chris Morris, Master Taster Elizabeth McCall and Award-winning Chef-In-Residence Ouita Michel as we explore the making of Woodford Reserve with food pairings to complement each step in the process. Discover the unparalleled sensory experience of Woodford Reserve's flavor wheel and enjoy a gourmet lunch prepared by Chef Ouita Michel's team. For Bourbon and food lovers, this is a day you won't soon forget! Commemorative engraved bottle of Woodford Reserve Distillers Select included as our gift to you. Note: All guests MUST utilize KBA-provided transportation to this event from the host hotel. $185 Learn More | See all Woodford Reserve Distillery events.
• 11:00am Cooking at Millie's with Town Branch & Master Distiller Mark Coffman11:00am- 2:00pm

  Join Town Branch Bourbon and Master Distiller Mark Coffman for an afternoon of bourbon, beer and some culinary adventure! If you like to have fun, enjoy a great meal and love to cook, this class is right up your alley. Town Branch will be partnering with Cooking at Millies; Louisvilles newest and most exciting educators of cuisine for a three course meal designed by local chefs and all about bourbon. The best part, participants will get to experience the hands on preparation, learn new recipes and enjoy the final product! Cooking at Millies is a brand new hands on culinary institute in the heart of downtown Louisville that focuses on good food and having fun. We will also have Master Distiller, Mark Coffman onsite to help with tastings and hang out with guests. All guests will receive a signed bottle of Town Branch Single Barrel, a very limited release product. $150 Learn More | See all Town Branch Distillery events.
• 12:00pm Four Roses Private Barrel Selection – SOLD OUT12:00pm- 3:00pm

  Join Master Distiller Brent Elliott in evaluating and selecting our second 2018 Kentucky Bourbon Affair Commemorative Private Selection Single Barrel Bourbon, which will be sold in the Four Roses Gift Shops. Brent and our guests will examine barrels of up to 10 of our unique Bourbon recipes, and vote to determine which will be bottled for the second 2018 KBA Commemorative Private Selection Single Barrel Bourbon. Each guest will use a copper whiskey thief to withdraw Bourbon directly from each barrel and use their nose and palate to select their favorite. Guests will individually transfer, hand label and cork their very own bottle. A southern style lunch buffet will be included as well as a special gift for each guest. $250 Learn More | See all Four Roses Distillery events.
• 12:00pm Behind the Scenes Tour at Bulleit Distilling Co.12:00pm- 3:00pm

  Join Tom Bulleit and the team at Bulleit Distilling Co. for a tour of the new Shelbyville, KY Distillery. We broke ground on the state-of-the-art, environmentally friendly and efficient distillery in August of 2014 and began producing whiskey in early 2017. Our mission has always been to focus on our whiskey production first, so we won't open to the public until next year. Hence why we are offering this behind the scenes tour to our passionate friends at the Kentucky Bourbon Affair. The experience will include a tour of the new Distillery, lunch and cocktails with Tom Bulleit, and a souvenir bottle of Bulleit Bourbon to mark the occasion. All guests MUST utilize KBA-provided transportation to this event from the host hotel. $175 Learn More | See all Bulleit Distilling events.
• 6:00pm Angel's Envy Cask Portfolio Dinner – SOLD OUT6:00pm- 9:00pm

  Ranked the Best Spirit in the World by Spirit Journal, Angels Envy Cask Strength Bourbon Finished in Port Barrels is unlike any whiskey youve ever tried. Angels Envy is releasing fewer than 10,000 bottles of the award-winning Cask Strength this year, so dont miss your chance to taste and pick up a bottle of this rare and delicious spirit. Each year, Angels Envy has released an uncommonly rare and distinct Cask Strength Bourbon Finished in Port Barrels. These releases, each distinctly delicious, are only available once per year, making previous years selections almost impossible to find. Until now. Guests to the Angels Envy 2018 Bourbon Affair will have the opportunity to purchase a single bottle of Cask Strength from one of the following years: 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, or 2017. Were pulling these from our own limited collection, and this represents a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for collectors. To help you decide on your purchase, we are thrilled to share a tasting of those five Angels Envy Cask Strength releases from 2013 through 2017. This is an incredible opportunity to learn and taste the unique flavor of Angels Envy Cask Strength Bourbon Finished in Port Barrels. In addition to the unique one-of-a-kind tasting, Co-founder Wes Henderson and Master Blender Kyle Henderson will lead guests through our full production distillery for an in-depth tour. Afterwards, guests will enjoy a multi-course dinner highlighted by Angels Envy pairings in our distillery courtyard, accompanied by live music. This is a cant miss event for serious bourbon fans, and an opportunity that only comes along once. We hope to see you there! $250 Learn More | See all Angel's Envy Distillery events.
• 6:00pm A Night of Discovery with Rabbit Hole Distilling6:00pm- 9:30pm

  For four years, Rabbit Hole has been making award-winning whiskies by buying production time in other distilleries. This year, Rabbit Hole opened its own distillery in Nulu, a state-of-the-art facility that blends the production of first-class spirits with a creative cocktailing experience unlike any other. The evening will be guided by Kaveh Zamanian, founder and whiskey maker, whose life was forever changed when he fell in love with Bourbon. We all know that feeling: our first encounter with America's native spirit, a growing understanding of its depth and breadth, a passion ignited. When Kaveh fell for Bourbon he fell hard, abandoning a successful medical practice in Chicago to build something new in Bourbon Country. He gathered a unique group of experts, from distillers to architects to the people who wrote the book on creative mixology, to help shape and fulfill the Rabbit Hole vision. The result is a unique coupling of Bourbon's deep, rich traditions with the sparkling creativity of modern America's culinary and cocktail innovators. This one-time event recreates Rabbit Hole's journey from inspiration to actuality. Use all five senses to discover the creative act of turning vision into reality, and unlock the secret location of where the journey will begin. Returning to Rabbit Hole, experience an in-depth tour, a multi-course dinner and paired cocktails developed by their partners, Proprietors LLC, founders of Death & Co in New York. As the night comes to an end, walk out into the evening aglow with the power of creativity fulfilled. $200 Learn More | See all Rabbit Hole Distilling events.
• 6:00pm Kindred Kentucky Spirits, The Home of Rob Samuels – SOLD OUT6:00pm- 8:30pm

  Experience the perfect Kentucky pairing - Keeneland and Maker's Mark - hosted at the home of 8th generation Kentucky whisky maker Rob Samuels! As Makers Mark's very first customer, you'll hear about their rich history and kindred relationship from Bill Thomason, President of Keeneland Racecourse, and Rob Samuels, grandson of the founders of Maker's Mark. Joining Bill and Rob for the evening is Keeneland's Executive Chef Marc Therrien. With more than 26 years in the industry, his love for Bourbon and passion for cooking with the finest local ingredients, this 5 course dinner with cocktails is sure to be the highlight of the evening. Chef Marc and Bill Thomason were the first to craft their perfect version of Maker's Mark through the creation of a Private Select custom barrel. You'll get to hear about their taste vision and sample their handmade Bourbon, Keeneland's Private Select. Depart with a signed commemorative bottle along with the memories of a wonderful evening. All guests MUST utilize KBA-provided transportation to this event from the host hotel. $225 Learn More | See all Maker's Mark Distillery events.
• 7:00pm Heaven Hill Family Dinner: An Evening with the Shapiras - SOLD OUT7:00pm- 9:30pm

  At the home of Heaven Hill President Max L. Shapira Enjoy a unique opportunity to spend an evening with two generations of the Shapira family, founders and leaders of one of the foremost, family-owned and operated American Whiskey distillers in the nation - Heaven Hill. Enjoy an intimate chef-prepared dinner at the home of President Max L. Shapira, learn about the founding of the distillery by his father and four uncles, and discover how the company has evolved under the second and third generations of family leadership. Plus, savor welcome cocktails and samples of rare whiskeys throughout the evening. The family will also host an informal question and answer panel, and lucky guests will leave with a special custom memento of the evening. All guests MUST utilize KBA-provided transportation to this event from the host hotel. $200 Learn More | See all Heaven Hill Distillery events.
• june 7, 2018
• 9:30am Predicting Your Palate: Understanding Maker’s Mark Private Select9:30am- 1:00pm

  When faced with retirement, Bill Samuels, Jr. set out on a journey to create his perfect version of Maker's Mark. He thought long and hard about what he loved most about Maker's and with the help of our cooperage, landed on the oak finishing technique that gave us all Maker's 46. While we all love the taste of Maker's 46, the process itself was something we really wanted to dive deeper into and explore what characteristics oak brings to our Bourbon. In exploring further with our cooperage, we created five proprietary staves that our customers, your favorite bars, restaurants, and liquor stores can choose from to create their perfect version of Maker's Mark. On this day at the Distillery, you will get to go through that experience! You will dive deep into the wood and learn about each of the five stave options and what flavors that each can bring to Maker's Mark. Then you will get to create a blend of those stave-finished Bourbons to enhance what you love most about Maker's. Your visit will include lunch from Chef-In-Residence Newman Miller at Star Hill Provisions. And no trip to Loretto would be complete without dipping a bottle in our signature red wax. You will choose one bottle to dip from our limited selection of special offerings of Private Select that most closely matches your palate. $175 All guests MUST utilize KBA-provided transportation to this event from the host hotel. Learn More |See all Maker's Mark Distillery events.
• 10:00am Barrel Proof Sharpshooter Challenge at Wild Turkey Distillery10:00am- 3:00pm

  Join the Masters, Eddie and Jimmy, as they guide you through the Wild Turkey Distillery located in Lawrenceburg, KY. Explore the rich history and age old process of making the finest Bourbon in the world along with hands on activities to give you even more insight into what it takes to produce this rich and unique liquid gold. Your day at Wild Turkey will include the rare opportunity to Shoot the Bird with the Masters in an onsite skeet shoot, led by industry professionals. Following the skeet shoot, you will be given an opportunity few will ever receive. You will be tasked to create your own blend of Wild Turkey during the Rare Breed Challenge where your creations will be put to the ultimate test-the palate of a Master Distiller! Your journey will come to an end at our historical Station Masters House. Dont worry about packing a brown bag, we have planned some of our favorite Kentucky themed dishes to be served. To top off your unique experience you some amazing Wild Turkey swag. We cant wait to see you at the Wild Turkey Distillery! $185 Learn More | See all Wild Turkey Distillery events.
• 10:00am Behind the Scenes Tour at Bulleit Distilling Co.10:00am- 1:00pm

  Join Tom Bulleit and the team at Bulleit Distilling Co. for a tour of the new Shelbyville, KY Distillery. We broke ground on the state-of-the-art, environmentally friendly and efficient distillery in August of 2014 and began producing whiskey in early 2017. Our mission has always been to focus on our whiskey production first, so we won't open to the public until next year. Hence why we are offering this behind the scenes tour to our passionate friends at the Kentucky Bourbon Affair. The experience will include a tour of the new Distillery, lunch and cocktails with Tom Bulleit, and a souvenir bottle of Bulleit Bourbon to mark the occasion. All guests MUST utilize KBA-provided transportation to this event from the host hotel. $175 Learn More | See all Bulleit Distilling events.
• 10:00am Jim Beam Bourbon Distillery Country Boil10:00am- 2:00pm

  Roll up your sleeves; it's time for a bourbon-inspired seafood boil at the Jim Beam American Stillhouse! Join Seventh Generation Master Distiller Fred Noe as he celebrates crawfish season Jim Beam-style. It's no secret that the Beam family has a love for fishing. In fact, sixth generation Master Distiller and Fred's father, Booker Noe, had an undisclosed fishing hole near the distillery so that he could keep a watchful eye on both of his passions. It's only fitting that we celebrate those passions with a seafood boil that's as bold and flavorful as our award-winning bourbons. Following a rare, private tour of the Jim Beam Distillery complete with a premium bourbon tasting, we'll transport you to the picturesque Knob Creek Guest House nestled softly between the Kentucky hills on the distillery grounds. The fragrant seafood pot and tumble of ingredients will beckon you around a table, elbow-to-elbow with friends, and fingers dusted with red spice. Throw in a selection of expertly crafted Jim Beam Bourbon cocktails, never-before-told fishing stories from Fred, live music and lawn games and this will be one summertime feast you won't want to miss! $175 Learn More | See all Jim Beam Distillery events.
• 11:00am The Jeptha Games at Jeptha Creed Distillery11:00am- 2:00pm

  Join Jeptha Creed for The Jeptha Games, our version of the Highland Games! Your day starts with a special Jeptha cocktail when you arrive. You can compete with fellow Bourbon lovers in three events: archery, axe throwing and foot golf. Join Master Distiller Joyce Nethery on a behind-the-scenes tour of the distillery. Bottle your own limited- edition Bloody Butchers Creed Bourbon and take it home. Your tour concludes with a picnic lunch served creek-side at our limestone rich water source. $125 Learn More | See all Jeptha Creed Distillery events.
• 11:00am Cooking at Millie's with Town Branch & Master Distiller Mark Coffman11:00am- 2:00pm

  Join Town Branch Bourbon and Master Distiller Mark Coffman for an afternoon of bourbon, beer and some culinary adventure! If you like to have fun, enjoy a great meal and love to cook, this class is right up your alley. Town Branch will be partnering with Cooking at Millies; Louisvilles newest and most exciting educators of cuisine for a three course meal designed by local chefs and all about bourbon. The best part, participants will get to experience the hands on preparation, learn new recipes and enjoy the final product! Cooking at Millies is a brand new hands on culinary institute in the heart of downtown Louisville that focuses on good food and having fun. We will also have Master Distiller, Mark Coffman onsite to help with tastings and hang out with guests. All guests will receive a signed bottle of Town Branch Single Barrel, a very limited release product. $150 Learn More | See all Town Branch Distillery events.
• 12:00pm Four Roses Small Batch Mingling – SOLD OUT12:00pm- 3:00pm

  Join Brent Elliott, Four Roses Master Distiller and Al Young, Senior Brand Ambassador, as they lead guests through examining up to 10 of our unique Bourbon recipes with sensory exploration. Guests will use their expertise to select their favorite recipes and determine the volumes of each to handcraft their very own Small Batch Bourbon mingling. A southern style lunch buffet will be included as well as a special gift for each guest. $250 Learn More | See all Four Roses Distillery events.
• 12:00pm Behind the Scenes Tour at Bulleit Distilling Co.12:00pm- 3:00pm

  Join Tom Bulleit and the team at Bulleit Distilling Co. for a tour of the new Shelbyville, KY Distillery. We broke ground on the state-of-the-art, environmentally friendly and efficient distillery in August of 2014 and began producing whiskey in early 2017. Our mission has always been to focus on our whiskey production first, so we won't open to the public until next year. Hence why we are offering this behind the scenes tour to our passionate friends at the Kentucky Bourbon Affair. The experience will include a tour of the new Distillery, lunch and cocktails with Tom Bulleit, and a souvenir bottle of Bulleit Bourbon to mark the occasion. All guests MUST utilize KBA-provided transportation to this event from the host hotel. $175 Learn More | See all Bulleit Distilling events.
• 12:00pm Predicting Your Palate: Understanding Maker’s Mark Private Select12:00pm- 3:30pm

  When faced with retirement, Bill Samuels, Jr. set out on a journey to create his perfect version of Maker's Mark. He thought long and hard about what he loved most about Maker's and with the help of our cooperage, landed on the oak finishing technique that gave us all Maker's 46. While we all love the taste of Maker's 46, the process itself was something we really wanted to dive deeper into and explore what characteristics oak brings to our Bourbon. In exploring further with our cooperage, we created five proprietary staves that our customers, your favorite bars, restaurants, and liquor stores can choose from to create their perfect version of Maker's Mark. On this day at the Distillery, you will get to go through that experience! You will dive deep into the wood and learn about each of the five stave options and what flavors that each can bring to Maker's Mark. Then you will get to create a blend of those stave-finished Bourbons to enhance what you love most about Maker's. Your visit will include lunch from Chef-In-Residence Newman Miller at Star Hill Provisions. And no trip to Loretto would be complete without dipping a bottle in our signature red wax. You will choose one bottle to dip from our limited selection of special offerings of Private Select that most closely matches your palate. $175 All guests MUST utilize KBA-provided transportation to this event from the host hotel. Learn More |See all Maker's Mark Distillery events.
• 6:00pm Big Hats, Bowties and Bourbon: Woodford Reserve Celebrates the Kentucky Derby6:00pm- 10:00pm

  If there's one thing we know in Kentucky, it's fast horses and smooth Bourbon. Celebrate both as we pay homage to Woodford Reserve's long-standing relationship with the Kentucky Derby, becoming the presenting sponsor of the event in 2018. We encourage guests to dress in your Derby finest - hats, bow ties and seersucker - during this exclusive evening at the Woodford Reserve Distillery. Your experience will begin with a tour of a local horse farm where you will learn how champions are made. Afterwards, you will be whisked to the Woodford Reserve Distillery for a beautiful farm-to-table dinner featuring Kentucky's finest ingredients. You'll sip Woodford Reserve Mint Juleps and learn about the commonalities between our fine Bourbon and champion horses in this area. As a gift to you, each guest will receive our commemorative 2018 Woodford Reserve Distiller's Select Derby Bottle. We look forward to having you join us at our historic site for an unforgettable evening celebrating the best of Kentucky at the Woodford Reserve Distillery! Note: All guests MUST utilize KBA-provided transportation to this event from the host hotel. $195 Learn More | See all Woodford Reserve Distillery events.
• 6:00pm Kentucky Barbeque - Michter’s Style at Michter's Distillery – SOLD OUT6:00pm- 10:30pm

  Enjoy a fun and elegant evening with the Michter's team as we experience the incredible taste of Michter's with the flavors of various barbeque traditions in a Kentucky Barbeque Michter's Style. The journey will begin at Michter's Distillery for a behind the scenes look at the making of Michter's with some interesting food pairings and tastings of Michter's products along the way, as well as interaction with the Michter's team. This experience also features hand labeling of your very own souvenir bottle of Michter's Kentucky Straight Small Batch Bourbon. You will then board the bus and head to Red Hog Restaurant for an evening of adventure with various local producers, cocktail artisans, Chef-Owners Bob Hancock and Zach Leezer, and Pitmaster Andrew Armstrong, while they prepare an experience in just how well Michter's whiskey pairs with various barbeque traditions in Kentucky. Dress for touring and eating some delicious comfort food. (All guests will be required to advise of any food allergies or dietary restrictions.) $175 Learn More | See all Michter's Distillery events.
• 6:00pm Four Roses & Wild Turkey Progressive Dinner – SOLD OUT6:00pm- 10:00pm

  Join Master Distillers Eddie Russell, Jimmy Russell and Brent Elliott as well as Sr. Brand Ambassador Al Young for a delightful evening filled with food pairings and Bourbon tastings. Guests will enjoy specialty cocktails, gourmet appetizers, a mouthwatering dinner and decadent desserts all paired and prepared with Wild Turkey and Four Roses Bourbons. More details to come. $250 Learn More | See all Four Roses Distillery events. | See all Wild Turkey Distillery events.
• 6:30pm An Interactive Evening of Bourbon-Infused Delights with O.Z. Tyler Distillery6:30pm- 9:00pm

  The O.Z. Tyler Distillery celebrates the marriage of innovation with the time-honored tradition of Bourbon making! Join us at Louisville's first kitchen incubator, Chef Space, for a hands-on, interactive evening that starts with Master Distiller Jacob Call creating specialty cocktails for you, followed by a Bourbon-centric dinner crafted by some of Louisville's up and coming chefs, culminating with the opportunity to make and take home your very own Bourbon ball creations. $150 Learn More | See all O.Z. Tyler Distillery events.
• june 8, 2018
• 9:00am Bourbon & Brunch with Limestone Branch Distillery9:00am- 11:00am

  Don't spend another minute wondering if it's too late to drink coffee or too early to drink Bourbon! Join us for a distinctive brunch featuring a unique pairing of Bourbon and coffee. Guests will learn about coffee roasting and flavoring - with Bourbon of course. Find out how master roasters and master blenders use similar tasting techniques to create their perfect flavor profile. Enjoy a private tasting with Limestone Branch Distillery owner and distiller, Steve Beam, including the exclusive Yellowstone Limited Edition trilogy. Then taste some specially-created coffee and Bourbon themed cocktails by local mixologists. Get ready for a morning of smelling, tasting and savoring! Guests will also receive a distillery exclusive 375ml bottle of Minor Case Rye Whiskey, a bag of Limestone Branch Distillery's exclusive coffee blend, a recipe card with the day's cocktails, and some Beam family recipes - some of which will be served at the brunch. $125 Learn More |See all Limestone Branch Distillery events.
• 9:30am Predicting Your Palate: Understanding Maker’s Mark Private Select9:30am- 1:00pm

  When faced with retirement, Bill Samuels, Jr. set out on a journey to create his perfect version of Maker's Mark. He thought long and hard about what he loved most about Maker's and with the help of our cooperage, landed on the oak finishing technique that gave us all Maker's 46. While we all love the taste of Maker's 46, the process itself was something we really wanted to dive deeper into and explore what characteristics oak brings to our Bourbon. In exploring further with our cooperage, we created five proprietary staves that our customers, your favorite bars, restaurants, and liquor stores can choose from to create their perfect version of Maker's Mark. On this day at the Distillery, you will get to go through that experience! You will dive deep into the wood and learn about each of the five stave options and what flavors that each can bring to Maker's Mark. Then you will get to create a blend of those stave-finished Bourbons to enhance what you love most about Maker's. Your visit will include lunch from Chef-In-Residence Newman Miller at Star Hill Provisions. And no trip to Loretto would be complete without dipping a bottle in our signature red wax. You will choose one bottle to dip from our limited selection of special offerings of Private Select that most closely matches your palate. All guests MUST utilize KBA-provided transportation to this event from the host hotel. $175 Learn More |See all Maker's Mark Distillery events.
• 10:00am Bondaroo - 120 Years of Bottled-in-Bonds, Evan Williams Bourbon Experience10:00am- 2:00pm

  Celebrate all bonded whiskeys with a look at the history, regulations and variations of American Bottled-In-Bond Straight Whiskey. Join Heaven Hill Master Distiller Denny Potter and Brand Ambassador, author and champion of bonded whiskeys, Bernie Lubbers, as they celebrate 120 years of Bottled-in-Bond history with tastings of several of our favorite bonded whiskeys, bespoke cocktails, and an exclusive insider tasting. From the birth of BIBs, to Prohibition, to the first golden age of American Whiskey, and finally to modern times, Denny and Bernie will inform, entertain, and keep your palate in bond-age. Plus, you will enjoy a special catered lunch and take home a unique gift to commemorate this special KBA event. $175 Learn More | See all Heaven Hill Distillery events.
• 10:00am Barrel Proof Sharpshooter Challenge at Wild Turkey Distillery10:00am- 3:00pm

  Join the Masters, Eddie and Jimmy, as they guide you through the Wild Turkey Distillery located in Lawrenceburg, KY. Explore the rich history and age old process of making the finest Bourbon in the world along with hands on activities to give you even more insight into what it takes to produce this rich and unique liquid gold. Your day at Wild Turkey will include the rare opportunity to Shoot the Bird with the Masters in an onsite skeet shoot, led by industry professionals. Following the skeet shoot, you will be given an opportunity few will ever receive. You will be tasked to create your own blend of Wild Turkey during the Rare Breed Challenge where your creations will be put to the ultimate test-the palate of a Master Distiller! Your journey will come to an end at our historical Station Masters House. Dont worry about packing a brown bag, we have planned some of our favorite Kentucky themed dishes to be served. To top off your unique experience you some amazing Wild Turkey swag. We cant wait to see you at the Wild Turkey Distillery! $185 Learn More | See all Wild Turkey Distillery events.
• 10:00am Jim Beam Bourbon Distillery Country Boil10:00am- 2:00pm

  Roll up your sleeves; it's time for a bourbon-inspired seafood boil at the Jim Beam American Stillhouse! Join Seventh Generation Master Distiller Fred Noe as he celebrates crawfish season Jim Beam-style. It's no secret that the Beam family has a love for fishing. In fact, sixth generation Master Distiller and Fred's father, Booker Noe, had an undisclosed fishing hole near the distillery so that he could keep a watchful eye on both of his passions. It's only fitting that we celebrate those passions with a seafood boil that's as bold and flavorful as our award-winning bourbons. Following a rare, private tour of the Jim Beam Distillery complete with a premium bourbon tasting, we'll transport you to the picturesque Knob Creek Guest House nestled softly between the Kentucky hills on the distillery grounds. The fragrant seafood pot and tumble of ingredients will beckon you around a table, elbow-to-elbow with friends, and fingers dusted with red spice. Throw in a selection of expertly crafted Jim Beam Bourbon cocktails, never-before-told fishing stories from Fred, live music and lawn games and this will be one summertime feast you won't want to miss! $175 Learn More | See all Jim Beam Distillery events.
• 11:30am Bourbon, Horses & History: A Day in Bourbon County with Hartfield & Co Distillery – SOLD OUT11:30am- 9:00pm

  Experience Bourbon County in a way few have been able to! Tour Claiborne Farm, considered by many to be the most influential horse farm in North America, and come face to face with some of the world's highest pedigreed horses while on a farm that has raised 6 of the 12 Triple Crown Winners. While you're at Claiborne, enjoy a tasting led by Tim Knittel from Distilled Living of some of the best spirits Hartfield & Co. has to offer in one of the Claiborne horse barns. Explore the still house of Jacob Spears, one of the pioneers of Bourbon and according to many, one of the first to barrel Bourbon in the 1700s. Enjoy a tour from State Representative Sannie Overly of the residence of Jacob Spears, which she now calls home. Go behind the scenes and see what life is like in a craft distillery with Hartfield & Co. Founder Andrew Buchanan. Taste through several barrels and choose which you like the best, bottle from that barrel, hand label your bottle and get ready for cocktail hour in our craft cocktail bar, Prichard and Bail. The evening is capped by a Bourbon County inspired 4-course meal paired with Bourbons produced by some of Kentucky's best craft distilleries. Lunch is provided as well. Our Founder, Andrew Buchanan will be leading portions of the event with Claiborne Farm President Walker Hancock and his sister Allison Hancock available at Claiborne and State Representative Sannie Overly at Jacob Spears Stillhouse and residence. There will be two meals served - lunch and dinner - including craft cocktails from Prichard and Bail featuring craft distillers from around the area. Each guest will leave with a bottle of Bourbon from their chosen barrel, branded gifts, cigars infused with Hartfield & Co. Bourbon from Gurkha Cigars, and a once in a lifetime experience through some of the best Bourbon County has to offer. Note: This is a full day experience! $300 Learn More | See all Hartfield & Co. Distillery events.
• 12:00pm Four Roses Small Batch Mingling – SOLD OUT12:00pm- 3:00pm

  Join Brent Elliott, Four Roses Master Distiller and Al Young, Senior Brand Ambassador, as they lead guests through examining up to 10 of our unique Bourbon recipes with sensory exploration. Guests will use their expertise to select their favorite recipes and determine the volumes of each to handcraft their very own Small Batch Bourbon mingling. A southern style lunch buffet will be included as well as a special gift for each guest. $250 Learn More | See all Four Roses Distillery events.
• 12:00pm Predicting Your Palate: Understanding Maker’s Mark Private Select12:00pm- 3:30pm

  When faced with retirement, Bill Samuels, Jr. set out on a journey to create his perfect version of Maker's Mark. He thought long and hard about what he loved most about Maker's and with the help of our cooperage, landed on the oak finishing technique that gave us all Maker's 46. While we all love the taste of Maker's 46, the process itself was something we really wanted to dive deeper into and explore what characteristics oak brings to our Bourbon. In exploring further with our cooperage, we created five proprietary staves that our customers, your favorite bars, restaurants, and liquor stores can choose from to create their perfect version of Maker's Mark. On this day at the Distillery, you will get to go through that experience! You will dive deep into the wood and learn about each of the five stave options and what flavors that each can bring to Maker's Mark. Then you will get to create a blend of those stave-finished Bourbons to enhance what you love most about Maker's. Your visit will include lunch from Chef-In-Residence Newman Miller at Star Hill Provisions. And no trip to Loretto would be complete without dipping a bottle in our signature red wax. You will choose one bottle to dip from our limited selection of special offerings of Private Select that most closely matches your palate. All guests MUST utilize KBA-provided transportation to this event from the host hotel. $175 Learn More |See all Maker's Mark Distillery events.
• 6:00pm Bottled in Bond Celebration with Wilderness Trail Distillery6:00pm- 9:30pm

  Gather for a celebratory evening at the Marriott downtown with Wilderness Trail Distillery. Don't miss this special celebration as part of the inaugural release of our Wilderness Trail Kentucky Straight Bourbon. Guests will not only be some of the first to taste our Bottled in Bond Bourbon but will also take home a bottle! Enjoy live music and heavy hors d'oeuvres in the new Bourbon lounge at the Marriott Downtown with cocktail pairings featuring our other award-winning products, including Blue Heron Vodka and Harvest Rum. Master Distillers Shane Baker and Dr. Pat Heist will walk guests through the full journey of Wilderness Trail's path to a mature Bourbon and host an inaugural tasting of our Bottled in Bond Kentucky Straight Bourbon. Each guest will receive a special boxed KBA collector's edition bottle of Wilderness Trail Kentucky Straight Bourbon. This will be one of the rare opportunities to obtain a bottle of our limited Single Barrel Bottled in Bond Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey release of only 40 barrels in 2018, while the remainder of our barrel stock ages until 6 years of maturation. Everybody loves a door prize and listen closely when we call out the winner of ours! We'll be giving away a Single Barrel Cask Strength Bourbon, which isn't planned for a 2018 release. Note: The Marriott Downtown is within walking distance of the KBA host hotel. $250 Learn More | See all Wilderness Trail Distillery events.
• 6:00pm Blade & Bow Supper at Stitzel-Weller Distillery6:00pm- 9:00pm

  It's a distillery drenched in the rich history of Bourbon's past that's pushing the boundaries with innovations for the future. Walk in the footsteps of Bourbon legends as you tour the newly restored historical buildings at Stitzel-Weller. Enjoy a night of history and storytelling, and back by popular demand, a three-course field supper featuring Blade & Bow Kentucky Straight Bourbon. You'll also learn about the Blade & Bow five Solera process for preserving some of Stitzel-Wellers oldest whiskies as our Master of Whiskey conducts a comprehensive tasting. $150 Learn More | See all Bulleit Distilly events.
• 7:00pm Brown Family Dinner & Old Forester Distillery VIP Tour – SOLD OUT7:00pm- 10:00pm

  Brown Family Dinner & VIP Tour of NEW Old Forester Distilling Co. on Whiskey Row. You're invited to an evening with Old Forester and the Brown Family at the brand new Old Forester Distilling Co! Almost 150 years ago, George Garvin Brown was the first man to exclusively put Bourbon in a bottle. He called this exceptional Bourbon "Old Forester," and made a lasting commitment to its consistency and quality. Meet his descendants who have carried his legacy forward and current Master Taster, Jackie Zykan. Hosted on Louisville's Historic Whiskey Row, enjoy Old Forester crafted cocktails, an upscale three-course meal paired with Old Forester Bourbon, and family stories from the past. Guests will be invited to 'Ask a Brown' and submit questions sparking conversation with a panel of Brown family members. After dinner, be one of the first to take an exclusive evening tour of the newly opened Old Forester Distilling Co. And to help you remember this truly unique evening, all KBA guests will leave with a gift bag of Old Forester premiums. $150 Learn More | See all Bulleit Distilly events.
• 7:00pm Rye Not? – A Bold & Spicy Dinner Experience with Jim Beam Master Distiller Fred Noe7:00pm- 10:00pm

  Join Seventh Generation Jim Beam Master Distiller Fred Noe as he offers a rare look at the gloriously spicy grain that has bartenders calling for more rye. Wildly popular before Prohibition, rye whiskies have made a comeback in recent years. And there's no better way to experience today's hottest spirits than with the First Family of Bourbon. Exclusively available for Kentucky Bourbon Affair guests, the Rye Not? dinner experience includes a tasting of Rye Whiskies. Innovative cocktail demonstrations, a locally sourced dinner menu crafted by Rye Louisville's expert culinary team and live music will leave you wondering Rye Not? The seasoned chefs from Rye will create a delicious menu, while Jim Beam Kentucky Bourbon Ambassador Beth Burrows crafts signature Jim Beam cocktails that complement the meal. KBA Guests will leave with a bottle of one of Jim Beam's Rye whiskies. $185 Learn More | See all Jim Beam Distillery events.
• june 9, 2018
• 8:30am Higher Proof Expo Hosted by Stave & Thief Society8:30am- 4:30pm

  Introduced as part of the Kentucky Bourbon Affair in 2017, the Higher Proof Expo was one of the highest rated experiences of the week. Attendees were treated to Bourbon-centric educational and tasting sessions led by top industry professionals. Between sessions, they were invited to peruse pop-up shops to sample and experience what Louisville has to offer. A ticket to the Higher Proof Expo includes access to 4 sessions throughout the day and is the perfect way to segue into the evening’s activities. $150 (lunch included)
  
  Sessions include:
  1. Orphan Barrel: Tales and Tastings
  2. Tasting the Grains: The Magic of Corn
  3. Balance And Counter-Balance: An Interactive Food & Bourbon Pairing For The Advanced Palate
  4. Bourbon For Wine Lovers
  5. You Complete Me: Unleashing Flavor Through Pairings
  6. Rum And Whiskey: Of Love And War
  7. Make An Old Fashioned - Louisville's Official Cocktail
  8. Vintage Spirits: History In A Bottle
  Learn More | See all Stave & Thief Society events.
• 6:00pm Angel's Fare - Select Barrel Picks, Vintage Whiskies, & Divine Cuisine6:00pm- 10:00pm

  Join us at the brand new Omni Louisville Hotel for an evening of delicious fare and rare whiskeys as Kentucky Bourbon Affair brings together renowned chefs and exclusive selections from vintage whiskey collectors to delight your palate. Be the first ever to try single barrel selections chosen by a panel of Kentucky Bourbon Hall of Fame Legends. The event will feature a vintage whiskey silent auction and single barrel selections for sale, with proceeds benefiting local Kentucky charities. Our friends from Jack Rose Dining Saloon in Washington, D.C. will be on hand to talk Bourbon and to educate guests on the history and lore of these unique offerings. $150 Learn More.
• june 10, 2018
• 10:00am Bourbon Badass Brunch hosted by Whisky Chicks10:00am- 12:00pm

  What better way to unwind after an event-filled week at the Kentucky Bourbon Affair than by discovering your inner badass over brunch and Bourbon? The Whisky Chicks are all about making the experience of Bourbon fun and approachable, so come mix, mingle and unwind with fellow Bourbon Badasses! Enjoy tastings and Bourbon-infused recipes, served family-style, from How to be a Bourbon Badass, written by Whisky Chicks founder, Linda Ruffenach. Guests can also use their bartending skills at our mimosa, bloody mary and coffee cocktail bars. As a final send off from KBA week, each guest will receive a signed copy of How to be a Bourbon Badass. $100 Learn More | See all Whisky Chicks events.