Taste 50 years of Louisville

October 10, 2024The Bar Belle 1 Comment

What does Louisville taste like? And has that changed over 50 years?

My answer to the first question would be: Hot Browns, bourbon and regret. And to the second question, I’d say, “Of course it has! Duh.”

Here’s where I’m going with this: The 50th anniversary of the sample extravaganza known as The Taste of Louisville will be held Wednesday, Oct. 16, and there are still tickets available! Chefs from the past and present will be in attendance and offering up bites of some of their favorite dishes.

How many, you ask? How does 75 restaurants and 25 spirits brands sound to you? That’s a helluva lot of food and drink to consume, and you can do that at your own pace while enjoying live music, a silent disco and catching up on 50 years of tea with your friends and neighbors and favorite chefs.

This year, Taste takes over the Mellwood Arts Center from 6-9 p.m., and all proceeds benefit two local charities: Frankie’s Family and Feed Louisville. Both of these organizations are doing great work for the people who need help the most in our community.

Derby Pie — You better believe there will be pie!

I’m excited to attend this year’s event, as I’ve missed it the last couple of years. You’ll likely find me near the bourbon booths, but if someone has got some white chicken chili or any type of chocolate entity going on, I could step away for a few minutes to indulge. Please, someone bring the ice cream!

Tickets are $85 in advance or $75 for a pack of four — so go grab three other friends and get a deal. Brings some Tums and let your tastebuds go wild. Get your tickets here.

This year’s King of Kentucky is sweet 16 again

October 2, 2024The Bar Belle Leave a comment

This year’s King of Kentucky release — the seventh since its relaunch in 2018 — will once again be bottled at 16 years old. It’s highly unlikely you’ll even see this bourbon unicorn on a shelf, because it disappears faster than Malört at a bartending convention.

King of Kentucky is a premium, single-barrel, ultra-aged bourbon released by Brown-Forman each year, and whiskey collectors go absolutely bananas about it — rightly so. The King is usually in my top 5 each year, and I beg Santa that he’ll deliver one under my tree. It has yet to happen, but that doesn’t mean I don’t have hope.

This year’s release is 16 years old, the same as the previous year’s iteration, and it comes from two lots of barrels distilled in 2007 (July 19, 2007 & Nov. 15, 2007). I was confused by the 2007 date, because that would make them 17 years old if they were bottled in 2024, but apparently they were bottled in 2023 — or at least put into a stainless steel holding tank, thus ending the aging process. I did ask, but it’s a little unclear.

Master Distiller Emeritus Chris Morris helped choose these barrels for the release, and he said in the news release that it’s a job he doesn’t take lightly due to the brand’s reputation.

“But reputations must not only be earned but defended,” he added. “This year’s release is sure to please the palate of every bourbon aficionado.”

A little bit more about this year’s release: Approximately 5,100 bottles were produced from 63 barrels, and they will ship out starting in October mostly to Kentucky outlets, but also 10 other lucky states (Alabama, California, Florida, Illinois, Nevada, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Tennessee, and Texas). The suggested retail price is a whopping $349.99! Ouch.

How Does the King Taste?

I received a small media sample last week and immediately opened it to try. Perhaps this is the closest I’ll get to a Christmas bottle, and I’m content with that. My sample was 130.4 proof, and these bottles can range anywhere from 125-135 proof.

This year’s seemed a little hot to me compared to previous releases. Normally these don’t drink like the high proof they are, so I had to let this one sit a while to open up.

The aroma is that wonderful banana nut bread I often get from the King, with a thick layer of caramel drizzled on top. Once I got past the heat, the palate opened up to some really complex flavors.

I get tobacco and dark chocolate; a sprinkle of baking spices, especially black pepper and nutmeg; a little citrus peel; and a plethora of oak. The finish is long, with bursts of butterscotch and brown sugar.

Having gone back to the sample several times since, it has definitely opened up more on the palate. I can’t say it’s my favorite of the King of Kentucky releases, but it’s definitely worth the hunt.

KY Bourbon Fest bound? Keep an eye out for these new releases

September 13, 2024The Bar Belle Leave a comment

The sold-out Kentucky Bourbon Festival (KBF) starts today and continues through Sunday. If you are lucky to have scored tickets, here are some special new bottles to keep an eye out for. They might be at each distillery’s booth for a taste, or some might even choose to sell them there as well.

I’ll be posting from the KBF every day on the Bourbon Country social media platforms (@justaddbourbon), so be sure to follow my bourbon-soaked shenanigans. I will try and behave myself for the most part, and if you’re there on Sunday, Sept. 15, stop by the Bourbon:30 panel discussion on bourbon journalism with myself and some very cool writers in the industry. It runs from 1:30-2 p.m.

Four Roses 2024 Limited Edition Small Batch

OK, so this one will most likely NOT be at the KBF, but it is being released at the nearby Cox’s Creek Four Roses Warehouse & Bottling Facility as well as the Lawrenceburg distillery on Saturday, Sept. 14. It’s first-come, first-serve, so you’ll have to line up early. I believe they’ll start letting people in line around 3 a.m. Shoo!

This year’s release features bourbon aged 12-20 years old and is bottled at 108.2 proof and non-chill filtered. I received a media sample and can say with 100% certainty that it’s delicious and worth the time in line. I get a lot of citrus and vanilla notes from this one, as well as a lovely baked cherry note, some of that Four Roses spice, and also an underlying flavor of toffee and creme brûlée.

Maker’s Mark Cellar Aged 2024

This one WILL be for sale each morning at the KBF while supplies last. This year’s Maker’s Mark Cellar Aged release clocks in at 119.3 proof and comes from a blend of 12- and 13-year-old bourbons.

If you recall last year’s inaugural release, it’s created from taking fully mature barrels of Maker’s Mark (4-6 years old) and then relocating them inside the Maker’s cellar for extra aging. The moderate conditions inside the cellar allow the bourbon to age gracefully, and in turn, they’re not losing as much to the angels.

It’s tasty, as always, and is everything I wanted added to my standard Maker’s Mark: age and proof.

Angel’s Envy Triple Oak

For the first time in over 10 years, Angel’s Envy is adding a third bottle to its signature, everyday lineup, in the form of a Triple Oak bourbon. It’s a is a blend of whiskeys finished in three types of barrels: Hungarian Oak from Hungary, Chinkapin Oak from Kentucky, and French Oak from — you guessed it — France. It’s bottled at 92 proof.

This bottle will eventually be distributed throughout the U.S., but if you just can’t wait, it’ll be available at the Louisville distillery on Saturday, Sept. 14, as well as at the KBF that morning, too. Master Distiller Owen Martin will be at the festival as well, and I hear he’ll be doing a tasting of it on Friday. So if you’re interested, head to the AE booth and ask for details.

The Triple Oak bourbon is rich and nuanced, and I seem to taste something different every time I try it. (Full disclosure: I was given a media sample to review.) Sometimes I get milk chocolate and coffee, while other times I get a nice oak toast and cinnamon.

Booker’s Bourbon “The Reserves”

If you’re a fan of Booker’s, this release is like a “very special episode” of Booker’s. It blends bourbons that are 8-14 years old and will be released in smaller quantities because of the rare nature of these bourbons. The 2024 release spans eight production dates and eight different warehouses, and it is bottled at 125.9 proof.

I’d like to get a taste of this before I commit to buy, but deep down I know it’s going to be amazing — especially since I’ve never met a Booker I didn’t like. Hopefully I can taste it at KBF, where I’ll be stalking Freddie Noe for his country ham.

Little Book “The Infinite: Edition 1“

And speaking of Freddie Noe, he has a new Little Book release just in time for the KBF and National Bourbon Heritage Month: “The Infinite: Edition 1.” This is the first-ever brand extension from Little Book that features whiskey laid down by three generations of the Noe family: Booker, Fred and Freddie.

The whiskey ranges in age from 7-20 years old, and each is a Kentucky Straight Bourbon. It’s bottled at 119.3 proof. I haven’t tried this one yet either, but here are some details from the news release:

“Edition I: The bourbon distilled by Booker Noe lays the groundwork with notes of oak, char, and smoke. Fred Noe’s bourbon brings in rich flavors of dark fruit, cherry, and brown sweets. And it’s all rounded out with bourbon Freddie Noe made where caramel, vanilla, and spice notes really shine through. Perfectly balanced yet unlike anything made before.”

I’m hoping they’ll have both the Booker’s and Little Book at the KBF, but I don’t have confirmation. So we’ll just mosey on over there and pray for a miracle.

Other bottles to look out for …

Now that distilleries can sell bottles at the KBF, I’d say most of them will come with something special. My advice would be to head to your favorites as soon as you get in the gate and find out what they have. Heaven Hill always brings some great bourbons, as does Bardstown Bourbon Company, Green River and Lux Row.

Also, remember that the KBF has partnered with most of the distilleries involved and picked special single-barrel releases in honor of the festival. These will also be for sale at each distillery each day. So your chances of scoring a great bottle of bourbon are extremely high. Hopefully higher than the rain chances this weekend!

See you there!

five different bottles of the first DeHart Whiskey

DeHart Whiskey is a family affair

September 4, 2024The Bar Belle 1 Comment

This bottle might be a little tough to find (unless you’re in Kentucky), but don’t you love the look of it? DeHart Whiskey is a new toasted-barrel bourbon created by a Louisville-based family that shares a passion for great bourbon, art, design and fulfilling lifelong dreams.

Brothers Mike and Dan DeHart always had a dream to create their own bourbon together, and it was fodder for many Thanksgivings spent around the table talking about names, mash bills, styles, finishes, and proofs. Growing up in Louisville, they were no stranger to the whiskey industry and spent most of their adult years “researching” all types of bourbons.

Mike DeHart (middle) with Doreen (left) and Jeaneen Barnhart | Courtesy

Finally in 2019, they purchased some slightly aged bourbon barrels from MGP in Lawrencburg, Ind., and moved them to Stanford, Ky., to age gracefully among the Kentucky countryside.

Now it was time to activate the twin powers — twin sisters Doreen (Mike’s wife) and Jeaneen Barnhart — to help with the look and packaging.

Doreen is an award-winning graphic designer, while Jeaneen is a renowned equine artist in Louisville. Her artwork has appeared in television and movies, on Kentucky Derby Festival posters, and even on well-known bourbon brands like Woodford Reserve and Maker’s Mark.

Doreen got busy creating the logo and bottle design, and Jeaneen started conceptualizing an image on canvas.

The image she came up with features a sassy and sexy woman with a holster around her hips. The artist wanted a playful vibe and something that would be eye-catching on a shelf with other bottles. That goal has definitely been achieved.

The Whiskey is Frisky

As for the whiskey, I can attest to the quality and rich flavors. Full disclosure: I was invited by Doreen, Mike and Jeaneen to help write some of the tasting notes for the website, and I used it as a way to get the scoop on this new release and enjoy some great bourbon in the process. Win-win!

DeHart Whiskey is available in Louisville, Lexington, Bardstown, E-Town and Pikeville. | Courtesy

There are five different releases in DeHart’s first launch, and each is a cask-strength single barrel that was aged 7 years in new, charred oak barrels.

The bourbon was then transferred to a toasted barrel for an additional 9 months. The mash bill is 75% corn, 21% rye and 4% malted barley, and the proofs range from 108 to 112.

Mike explained that he and his brother love the toasted-bourbon category and wanted to play around with their own finishing techniques. This will be the first release of many planned, as the brothers have more inventory (and different mash bills) they’re tinkering with.

Just like fine bourbon, they’re in no hurry to flood the market with their brand. Instead, they plan on taking their time and getting it exactly right to their tastes.

Where to Find It

DeHart Whiskey is slowly trickling into local and regional liquor stores.

You should be able to find it in Bardstown, Lexington, Elizabethtown and Pikeville, and there are a handful of bars and liquor stores carrying it in Louisville as well, like Evergreen Liquors in Middletown, Neat Bourbon Bar & Bottle Shop in the Highlands, and Taste Fine Wines & Bourbons in NuLu.

Check this link for all the places you can find the whiskey, which will continue to be updated. And stay tuned for more DeHart Whiskey releases in the future. I can’t wait to see the artwork on the next one!

DeHart Whiskey retails for a suggested price of $69.99.

Bardstown Bourbon Co. adds High Wheat to its Origin Series

August 21, 2024The Bar Belle Leave a comment

Wheated bourbon fans should be rejoicing. On the horizon in that bourbon category are releases of Pappy, Maker’s Cellar Collection, Larceny Barrel Proof, maybe another Old Fitzgerald Bottled-in-Bond, etc. And now, Bardstown Bourbon Company is adding another wheated bourbon to its Origin Series roster in the form of High Wheat.

What does this mean? Well, first, let’s start with legendary Master Distiller Steve Nally and his 30+ year career at Maker’s Mark. The man worked with wheat for 30 years, so it’s a safe bet the “Wheat King” knows what he’s doing. He worked along side Head Distiller Nick Smith for this one, and the two came up with a low barrel entry proof of 108 — which I’m also a big fan of.

“Once we perfected the distillate, we focused on the aging modifications that would make this whiskey best-in-class,” Smith said in a news release. “The lower barrel entry proof of 108 pulls more wood sugars in from the onset, leading to a drinking experience that is elegant and complex.”

The mash bill on this one is 53% corn, 39% wheat and 8% malted barley, and it’s aged for a respectable 6 years. The proof is 106, also in my preferred range. It retails for $49.99.

High Wheat is definitely one of the highest percentages of wheat in the category, but there are also some craft distillers doing some fun things with the secondary grain as well. Wilderness Trail’s wheated bourbon has 24% wheat in the mash bill, for instance.

This product joins BBCo’s Origin Series, which was launched in 2023 and includes a rye whiskey, wheated bourbon and rye bourbon.

So how does it taste?

What I noticed right away is the viscosity of this bourbon as compared to the other wheated bourbon in the Origin Series (68% corn, 20% wheat, 12% malted barley). The thicker texture likely due to the low entry proof and possibly the higher wheat content — but whatever the case, it’s a delicious sip.

The nose reminds me of a Werther’s Original with a little apricot mixed in. And on the palate, the bourbon oozes with Grandma hugs. I get layers of rich caramel drizzle atop vanilla bean ice cream, milk chocolate and even some almonds sprinkled on top. The finish lingers with a little maple and brown sugar action.

One of my favorite wheated bourbons is the Weller Antique, at 7 years and 107 proof. This is 6 years and 106 proof — so we’re really not too far off from that. This could possibly become my everyday wheated sipper.

New Angel’s Envy Bottled in Bond shows off bourbon without port finish

June 7, 2024The Bar Belle Leave a comment

Many bourbon purists believe that when a bourbon is finished in a second barrel, it’s because the distiller is trying to cover up something or mask an unwanted flavor note. Sure, that could be true in some cases, but ever since Angel’s Envy debuted in the market in 2011, they’ve had to field this misconception time and time again.

Now, for the first time ever, Angel’s Envy is releasing a special product that shows off its bourbon without any port finish. The Angel’s Envy Cask Strength Bottled in Bond will be available only at the distillery starting on National Bourbon Day, June 14.

Using an industry low barrel entry proof of 103, these barrels were made specifically for this release and came in right at 100 proof (the standard for Bottled in Bond releases). The bourbon is almost 6 years old and will be sold in .375ml bottles for $54.99.

Angel's Envy Master Distiller Owen Martin — Angel’s Envy Master Distiller Owen Martin | Courtesy

I caught up with Master Distiller Owen Martin earlier this week to sample the new product and find out how it came to fruition. Most of us would probably guess that releasing a product so unlike its core brand was likely Martin’s idea, since he was the newest person to join the team in 2022.

Not so, says Martin.

The idea to release an unfinished Angel’s Envy product actually came from founder Lincoln Henderson himself. Although he passed away in 2013, Lincoln left behind several notebooks full of ideas, processes and directions, and coming out with a bourbon that was not finished in ruby port barrels was up his sleeve all along.

“This was not my idea at all. This was an idea that was relayed to me of Lincoln Henderson’s,” says Martin. “It’s very cool for me to execute an idea from the founder of the company.”

The barrels were laid down in the spring of 2018 with that low barrel entry proof of 103. They were then placed on a lower floor of a cool warehouse in Henry County to help manage the angel’s share and proof level, since the goal was to keep them around 100 proof.

Here’s where Martin gets technical: “Instead of withdrawing them at 100 proof, we let them mature further to prioritize flavor,” he explains. “We drew the barrels at 98-99 proof and blended 27 low-proof barrels with two high-proof barrels from the same season to reach exactly 100 proof.”

He whipped out his phone and even showed me a picture the fancy proofing equipment that read 100.000 exactly. He was blown away, since most of the time there’s always a .006 margin. This was the first time he ever got a perfect proof, which surely has to be a sign that Lincoln approves.

Owen Martin shares a sample — Martin shares a sample and explains the concept behind the release. | Photo by Sara Havens

“Reframing and thinking outside the box is necessary for any brand,” Martin says. “If I’m innovating correctly, it should feel like a natural extension of the brand and still surprise people. A good example of that was the Rye Cask Strength we released last year. I think that surprised folks a bit, and I think an unfinished Angel’s Envy is really going to surprise some people. Hopefully in a good way. I think the bourbon will speak for itself.”

And speaking it will do. Since I got to try a sample with Martin, I can attest to its wonderful notes of brown sugar, cinnamon, honey and Animal Crackers. Yes, Animal Crackers. It’s in there, I swear! Bourbon purists definitely won’t be disappointed with this one, and hopefully it’ll quell the naysayers who might not be into finished products.

You can pick up your own bottle of Angel’s Envy Bottled in Bond on Friday, June 14. The distillery will be throwing a party that day from 10 a.m.-3 p.m., which will include cocktails, appetizers, live music and much more. Martin will also be on hand to sign bottles.

Green River goes Full Proof

June 4, 2024The Bar Belle Leave a comment

I’ve been quite impressed with Green River Distilling Co. since it relaunched in 2022. Based in Owensboro, Ky., the distillery is one of the oldest in the state (with a DSP of No. 10), but after Prohibition it never really came back to full steam, having changed hands numerous times and producing various brands throughout the years.

Now, Green River is owned by Bardstown Bourbon Company (which is run by PPC, Pritzker Private Capital), and things seem to be running quite smoothly over there. How do I know? Because the whiskey they’re producing is top-notch for the price point they’re asking. Also, I drink bourbon and I know things.

Green River Full Proof bottle — The first batch is 117.3 proof. | Courtesy

Not to bury the lede here, but another shining example of Green River’s frisky whiskey-makin’ abilities comes out today with the release of Green River Full Proof, a blend of bourbons aged 5-7 years and bottled at barrel strength (117.3 proof) and non-chill filtered. And the price is a mere $49.99.

The bourbon is the same mash bill as their flagship bourbon: 70% corn, 21% rye and 9% malted barley, but according to a news release, the barrels chosen for the Full Proof expression are selected differently

“Full Proof bottlings are custom blends of barrels selected from our favorite parts of the rickhouses and hand selected for their quality,” says Dan Callaway, VP of Product Development for Green River. “What I love about full proof expressions is that you are in control of the proof — taste at full-bodied strength and adjust to your preferences.”

How’s it taste?

I was fortunate to receive a media sample of the Green River Full Proof, and I can say the high-rye bourbon is definitely worth adding to your home bar. I wouldn’t make cocktails with it, but I would sip on it slowly after one of those long days at the office — even if your office is in the basement.

On the nose I get roasted pecans and caramel, and on the palate I get a nice warm mouthfeel of black pepper and apricot, with a little vanilla, cinnamon, baked cherry and Werther’s Original candy.

It’s the perfect bourbon to sip neat, but if you have to add a rock or two, I won’t judge.

In other news …

I’m so behind on my bourbon news it’s not even funny after three pours of this stuff. Things I still need to get to include: Jeptha Creed Wheated Bourbon, Bardstown Bourbon Co.’s Amrut Finish, the new Old Fitz Bottled in Bond, the new Elijah Craig, 15 Stars, Michter’s 10 Year Rye, and the list goes on and on.

I’ll include some of it in my next roundup for Alcohol Professor, so stay tuned. And speaking of that, my list of best Finished Whiskeys just came out there, so go check it out. I might need an assistant!

Respect the Mint Julep

April 5, 2024The Bar Belle Leave a comment

Mint Juleps: Line ’em up and drink ’em down!

In my latest piece for Food & Dining Magazine, I dive into the many misconceptions about the beloved Mint Julep, and I implore my readers to respect the traditional Derbytime cocktail. They’re actually quite tasty when made correctly — which means not in bulk at Churchill Downs during the Derby.

Next time you’re at your favorite cocktail bar, ask them if they make a mean Mint Julep. If they say yes, give it a try. And if they say no, tell them goodbye.

Here’s an excerpt from my article, and the full piece can be read here.

“The Mint Julep, made of four simple ingredients (bourbon, sugar, ice and mint), should be as much of a Southern staple as sweet tea and backhanded compliments. There are so many ways to dress it up — add blackberries, powdered sugar or chocolate bitters, try brown sugar or even mix in molasses — but you mean girls and gents won’t give it a chance after experiencing dreadful versions of the cocktail in Derbies past. Yes, I agree Mint Juleps served at Churchill Downs weren’t great for many years, but now they’re better. The braces are off, the awkwardness of blended whiskey and sugar water is long gone, and it’s now in the capable hands of Old Forester.

So won’t you let the Mint Julep sit at your lunch table?

…

Did you know that because of the Mint Julep, we now have sturdy straws? In 1888, Civil War vet Marvin C. Stone was having a tough damn time trying to drink a Mint Julep through a grass straw, as they did back in the day, so he fashioned one out of thick paper that would stand up against the bourbon and ice. Isn’t that nice? The cocktail also gets a shout-out in several renowned novels from “Gone With the Wind” to “The Great Gatsby,” and The Clovers and Ray Charles sang about it all the way to the top of the charts with “One Mint Julep” in 1952 and 1961 respectively.“

—By Sara Havens, Food & Dining Magazine, Spring 2024

If after all of this you’re still not a fan, then just go back to your vodka soda and cauliflower pizza.

Maker’s Mark offers free, personalized labels for the badass women in your life

March 5, 2024The Bar Belle Leave a comment

Maker's Mark Women's History Month label — Add your personalized label to a bottle of Maker’s Mark. | Courtesy

It’s one thing to get a bottle of great bourbon as a gift, but it’s a whole new ballgame if that bottle has your frickin’ name on it! Talk about scoring bourbon-soaked brownie points.

In honor of Women’s History Month, Maker’s Mark is offering free, personalized labels for anyone who wants to give a shout-out to a badass bourbon-drinking lady in their life. The limited-edition label, which is designed by renowned artist Gayle Kabaker, will feature your person’s name on it and can be put on a standard bottle of Maker’s Mark.

All you have to do is go to makersmarkpersonalize.com and follow the directions.

Label with name on it — Look, Ma! I’m famous!

The initiative also supports Vital Voices, a nonprofit that invests in female leaders.

“Vital Voices is thrilled to join Maker’s Mark in this collaboration to amplify the power of women,” said Alyse Nelson, president and CEO of Vital Voices, in a news release. “We deeply appreciate their support in our mission to advance women leaders and our world.”

The artist of the label, Gayle Kabaker, is a partner of Vital Voices and often creates pieces that showcase women who use their power to empower others. Her label design depicts her interpretation of a spirited woman in acrylic gouache, inspired by the wildflowers of Kentucky and the colors of the Maker’s Mark palette — including that famous red wax.

“As a brand co-founded by my grandmother Margie Samuels more than 70 years ago, Maker’s Mark continues to be guided and grown by incredible women defining what’s next in the industry,” said Rob Samuels, managing director of Maker’s Mark and 8th generation whisky maker, in the release. “We are privileged to continue our commitment to women making an impact in their communities and support the meaningful causes that drive Vital Voices.”

Make Your Label Now!

So go make your own personalized label, and if the badass bourbon-drinking lady in your life is yourself, then so be it! It feels accomplished to have a bourbon bottle with your name on it, trust me!

It’s almost Tailspin time! Behold the best beer fest in Louisville

February 9, 2024The Bar Belle Leave a comment

Sure, you can coup us up for two months while Old Man Winter hides the sun and takes away all the fun, but as soon as the calendar flips from February to March, you better believe we Louisvillians are ready to bum rush the outdoors. And the first sign that spring is near is the beloved Tailspin Ale Fest, which draws thousands of thirsty people to Bowman Field each year to celebrate beer, friendship, beer and aviation.

This year’s Tailspin, which is now in its 11th year, will be held Saturday, March 2, from 3-7 p.m. VIP tickets are already sold out, but there are still some GA tickets available. (But be sure to get them ASAP, because this event will sell out.)

What’s New?

So what’s new this year? Well, of course there is more beer than ever, with over 250 American craft beers served by the sample. IPAs, pale ales, sours, stouts, ciders — you name it, it’s there. And for those who like a stiffer pour, Green River Distilling will be on hand again offering up samples of bourbon — but more on that later.

This year there will also be VIP bathrooms courtesy of Tom Drexler, and you can actually purchase a special potty pass on the Tailspin website for $30. One of the only downsides of a big beer festival like this one here is encountering long lines at the Port-o-Pots, so this pass could be a great way to circumvent that bladder ache. The pass will allow you access to 17 indoor restrooms that are located in a private area.

Now, if you’re bougie and want your own private bathroom, that can happen as well for a fee of $200. And I will be your friend for the day, too!

Scene at Tailspin Ale Fest — Who’s ready for some beer? | Courtesy

While you’re not drinking beer, you can hit up local food trucks, dance funny at the silent disco, sing karaoke, smoke cigars and/or listen to the cool tunes of Tony & The Tan Lines.

And, as always, a portion of the proceeds benefits a local charity. This year the funds are going to Pints for Parkinson’s | TKO. There will also be a live boxing demonstration that highlights “the importance of exercise and movement in combating the challenges of Parkinson’s disease,” according to the news release. “The demonstration pays tribute to Louisville’s own legend, Muhammad Ali, whose battle with the incurable disease underscored the significant role that boxing and commitment to life played in extending his earthly existence beyond expectations.”

What About That Bourbon?

A Green River Single Barrel will be available at Tailspin. | Courtesy

Let’s get back to the bourbon. Tailspin has teamed up with Green River for a special single barrel pick that will be for sale starting Feb. 29 at the Evergreen Liquors in NuLu (4-7 p.m.).

Any bottles left after this event and another one at Against the Grain will be sold at Tailspin. All I know is the bourbon is 119 proof, so you better believe I’ll be lining up for a sample!

Several of the breweries that have bourbon barrel-aged brews at the festival were given freshly dumped Green River barrels, so it’s like a tasty circle of life between beer, bourbon and my belly.

So let’s just all survive the next few weeks — we got the Super Bowl and the upcoming Bourbon Classic (Feb. 23-24) — and I’ll see your fine faces at Tailspin!

The Bar Belle

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Author: The Bar Belle