Bourbon Heritage Month: 30 Days, 30 Pours

September is Bourbon Heritage Month, and we’re raising a glass with Bourbon & Banter’s annual 30 Days of Bourbon Challenge. It’s the perfect excuse to explore a different pour each day, revisit old favorites, and maybe discover a new bottle or two along the way. Whether you’re a casual sipper or a dedicated collector, this month is all about celebrating America’s native spirit—and we’ve rounded up the latest bourbon and mead news to keep your glass full and your conversations lively.

Ironstone Meadery’s fan-favorite Bloodmoon is back just in time for the fall harvest. This seasonal release takes their Unholy Apple mead and infuses it with organic dark sweet cherries for a few months, creating a rich, fruit-forward flavor perfect for cooler weather. With autumn settling in, Ironstone is encouraging fans to stock up for “Fyre Season,” whether that means enjoying a mug in a mystical robe, cozy furs, or just a trusty sweatshirt. Bloodmoon is available now through the Erie-based meadery’s online store.

Union Horse Distilling Co. has announced that its Bottled-in-Bond Reserve Straight Bourbon Whiskey, first released as a limited run in 2023, is now a permanent part of its portfolio. Beginning in mid-August, the bourbon will be available year-round in Missouri and Kansas, with wider distribution to follow in September and October. Distilled in small batches on their column-pot still “Chester Copperpot,” the whiskey is made from corn and rye, aged in oak, and bottled at 100 proof. It offers rich notes of butterscotch, vanilla, spice, and dark fruit. Already highly decorated with accolades from Fred Minnick, the Ascot Awards, and the San Francisco World Spirits Competition, this $45–$47 bourbon reflects both tradition and craftsmanship while celebrating the resurgence of the Bottled-in-Bond standard.

Algoma-based Unbound Spirits is partnering with the Wisconsin Maritime Museum to release “Torpedo Juice,” a bourbon aged in the historic torpedo room of the USS Cobia submarine. The name nods to the WWII-era sailor tradition of turning torpedo fuel into makeshift alcohol. Instead of the rough brews of the past, this bourbon delivers smooth notes of vanilla and caramel from its oak barrel aging. Featuring real veterans on the label, the release pays tribute to the creativity and resilience of submariners. Torpedo Juice is set to debut at the distillery in late September.

The Lexington Planning Commission is weighing zoning amendments that would make it easier for micro distilleries to open and expand within the city, aiming to strengthen Lexington’s role in Kentucky’s booming whiskey tourism industry. The proposal, introduced by John Woodall of New Era Whiskey and Spirits, would allow distilleries to produce up to 10,000 gallons by right, with larger operations requiring Board of Adjustment approval. Supporters, including local entrepreneurs and industry veterans, say the changes would attract visitors, boost the economy, and align Lexington with bourbon hubs like Louisville. With strong public backing, the city could soon see a new wave of small-scale distilleries enhancing both its tourism profile and ties to Kentucky’s bourbon heritage.

Remington Ammunition has teamed up with Kentucky’s Log Still Distillery to launch Remington Reserve “Open Season” Bourbon, a new 86-proof blend of Kentucky and Tennessee bourbons celebrating hunting traditions and shared stories. Featuring a writable memory label for recording hunts and companions, the bottle emphasizes legacy and camaraderie. The bourbon is first available at Log Still’s tasting room and select Kentucky retailers, with broader distribution planned this fall across multiple states and online starting September 8. The launch will be marked by special events at Log Still Distillery through October.

Sazerac Barrel Select has announced a rare Elmer T. Lee Charity Sweepstakes, giving bourbon fans the chance to select a single barrel of the iconic Elmer T. Lee Single Barrel Bourbon Whiskey. Each $100 donation counts as an entry, with all proceeds (minus transaction fees) supporting St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. The prize includes a private barrel selection with Master Distiller Harlen Wheatley, a behind-the-scenes tour of Buffalo Trace, a catered lunch, a one-night stay in Stagg Lodge for up to eight guests, and $18,000 to purchase the personalized bottles. The sweepstakes runs September 8–30, 2025, with the winner announced the week of October 6. This marks the first Elmer T. Lee barrel selection in a decade and continues the legendary distiller’s legacy while supporting a worthy cause.

The American Distilling Institute has honored Southern Distilling Company with its top recognition, the Bubble Cap Award, presented at the ADI Craft Spirits Conference & Expo in San Antonio. Co-founders Pete and Vienna Barger were recognized not only for producing award-winning whiskey under their Southern Star label, but also for advancing North Carolina’s craft distilling laws through their leadership in the Distillers Association of North Carolina. Since 2013, Southern Distilling has grown into one of the nation’s largest privately owned distilleries, supporting more than 170 brands while earning international acclaim for quality and innovation.

Brown-Forman, the company behind Jack Daniel’s and Woodford Reserve, reported a 62% drop in sales to Canada last quarter after many provinces pulled American spirits from shelves in retaliation for U.S. tariffs. Officials called the boycott “significant,” noting it’s a major drag on fiscal 2026 despite growth from non-U.S. brands like Diplomatico rum and El Jimador tequila. Canada, historically the second-largest market for U.S. spirits, has begun removing retaliatory tariffs, but provincial restrictions remain. Until shelves are restocked, distillers warn the dispute will continue hurting U.S. producers, Canadian retailers, and consumers alike.

Based on labels recently approved by the TTB, Bluegrass Distillers looks ready to unveil a special 9-year-old Elkwood Reserve Kentucky Straight Bourbon celebrating Thorpedo Anna, the 2024 Kentucky Oaks winner and Horse of the Year. Bottled at a robust 120 proof, this single barrel was chosen for its depth, harmony, and bold character, echoing the spirit of “The Grizzly,” Thorpedo Anna’s nickname. The label features original artwork by Almee Griffith, making this limited release a true collector’s piece for both bourbon and racing fans.

Limestone Branch Distillery is celebrating the 10th anniversary of its Yellowstone Limited Edition Bourbon with a unique 2025 release created in collaboration with Ross & Squibb Distillery. The bourbon is a blend of three distinct mash bills, all aged 10 years, and bottled at 105 proof to honor the inaugural 2015 release. This marks the first time barrels from both the Indiana and Kentucky distilleries have been blended for the series. With just 10,000 cases available this September at $99.99, the commemorative bottle features rich notes of caramel, vanilla, and stone fruit, with a finish of charred oak, honey, and cinnamon—an anniversary-worthy pour arriving just in time for Bourbon Heritage Month.

Constellation Brands, the parent of Corona, Modelo, High West bourbon, and Robert Mondavi wines, shook the market Tuesday with a major downgrade to its fiscal 2026 outlook. The company now expects organic sales to fall as much as 6%, with beer sales down up to 4% and wine and spirits still bracing for a 20% drop. CEO Bill Newlands cited “macroeconomic headwinds” and weaker consumer demand, particularly among Hispanic consumers, a key demographic for the company’s beer business. The announcement sent Constellation’s shares tumbling more than 8% in pre-market trading, dragging down others in the sector, including Brown-Forman. The update follows last week’s news that Brown-Forman saw sales fall 3% in Q1, underscoring a rough patch for major spirits makers.

Heaven Hill is celebrating the opening of its new Bardstown distillery with a special release: Heaven Hill Master Distillers Unity. Priced at $225, the limited-edition bourbon blends four whiskeys, including the last remaining 34-year-old barrel from the original 1991 Old Heaven Hill Springs Distillery, alongside 14-, 8-, and 6-year-old bourbons from Bernheim. With just 27 barrels yielding about 4,000 bottles, the 107-proof release honors generations of master distillers—Parker Beam, Denny Potter, and Conor O’Driscoll—while paying tribute to the brand’s legacy. Expect rich notes of butterscotch, chocolate, pecans, and aged oak in what’s billed as both a tribute to the past and a toast to the future.

Nashville Barrel Company will open its first Louisville location in early 2026, bringing its hands-on, curated whiskey experiences to the NuLu neighborhood. Set for 717 E. Market St.—the former Norae Bar—the new Louisville Barrel Whiskey Co. will include a tasting bar, bottle shop, and intimate distillery space. Founded in 2018 and already operating three Nashville locations, Nashville Barrel Company says NuLu’s craft-distilling culture makes it the ideal place to showcase its unique approach to whiskey.

Rabbit Hole Distillery is launching Regallier, a limited-edition Distillery Series bourbon, available exclusively at the distillery throughout Bourbon Heritage Month in September. This high-rye, double-malt bourbon blends Kentucky craftsmanship with French influence, aging in new American oak and finishing in French oak casks. Bottled at 118.9 proof, Regallier offers a layered tasting experience: bright citrus and vanilla lead to Bing cherry, toasted almond, caramel, and soft oak on the palate, finishing smooth with sweet plum, dried fruits, and a hint of cocoa. Each batch is small, no more than 15 barrels, reflecting Rabbit Hole’s signature approach of unique mash bills, lower barrel entry proofs, and meticulous maturation. Visitors can pair this release with a guided tasting experience or cocktails at the Overlook Bar while exploring the distillery in Louisville’s NuLu district.

The Columbus Indiana Philharmonic has officially canceled Bourbonfest 2025 and announced it will retire the event altogether after nearly a decade. Originally slated for September, the ninth annual festival faced major challenges securing enough premier bourbon vendors, with staffing shortages and industry struggles cited as key reasons. While about a dozen vendors had committed, organizers felt it fell short of the festival’s usual standard. Proceeds from past Bourbonfests supported youth music education, and though the event is ending, the Philharmonic says that mission will continue through new fundraisers. Ticket holders are being offered options, including refunds, converting tickets into donations, or receiving a special West Fork Whiskey select bottle along with concert tickets.

After more than a decade of planning and setbacks, husband-and-wife team Megan Draheim and David Harris are set to open Song Dog Distillery on October 12 in Boyds, Maryland. Built on a 29-acre farm in Montgomery County’s Agricultural Reserve, the 5,500-square-foot farm-to-bottle distillery will feature bourbon, rye, gin, vodka, liqueurs, and cocktails crafted with grains grown onsite and from local partners. Guests can expect a family- and dog-friendly space with indoor and outdoor seating, food trucks, live music, tastings, and seasonal cocktail flights designed with help from “Slow Drinks” author Danny Childs. Sustainability and a strong sense of terroir are at the heart of the operation, with the owners aiming to capture the “flavor of the county” in every pour.

Watershed Distillery is kicking off its 2025 Fall Finishing Series with Batch 002 of its Barrel Strength Bourbon finished in ruby Port wine casks. This $79.99 bottle shop exclusive builds on last year’s sellout release, showcasing bourbon aged in barrels from California’s Pedroncelli Winery and cooperages in France and Kentucky. The result is a deep garnet spirit brimming with aromas of spiced plum and mulled wine, followed by flavors of vanilla, dark cherry, toasted caramel, and a lingering touch of red wine tannins. Bold and complex, this limited release is aimed squarely at collectors and enthusiasts who believe autumn deserves its own bourbon.

Blue Note Bourbon has re-released its fan-favorite Honey Rye Cask after last year’s sellout success. This limited expression, bottled at 116.49 proof, starts with a 95% rye mash bill aged at least three years before finishing in casks previously used for barrel-aged honey. The result is a bold yet smooth whiskey infused with sweet and spicy layers. About 13,000 bottles are available at $64.99 SRP through select U.S. markets and online at BlueNoteBourbon.com. Crafted in Memphis and shaped by the city’s sweltering summers and cool nights, Honey Rye joins Blue Note’s lineup of award-winning limited and core releases.

Forty Creek Whisky has announced that legendary Master Blender Bill Ashburn will retire at the end of December 2025, closing out a remarkable 38-year career that transformed Canadian whisky. Ashburn, who began at the distillery in 1987, pioneered grain-specific blending and creative barrel aging, leading to landmark releases like Barrel Select, Confederation Oak, and Double Barrel. His innovations earned him accolades, including Canadian Master Blender of the Year and Whisky Maker of the Decade. Ashburn’s final release will arrive later this year as a tribute to his career. Fans can celebrate his legacy at Forty Creek’s Whisky Weekend on September 20–21, 2025, in Grimsby, Ontario.

Milam & Greene Distillery is expanding its portfolio with the September 10, 2025, release of Provisions Bourbon, a new expression blending Kentucky heritage with Texas climate influence. Led by Master Blender Heather Greene and Hall of Fame distiller Marlene Holmes, the team employs its unique “Texification” process, aging Kentucky-distilled bourbon further in the intense Texas Hill Country climate to add richness and roundness. Bottled at 40% ABV and priced at $34.99, Provisions is designed to be versatile, approachable, and slightly sweeter—whether enjoyed neat, in cocktails, or shared with friends. The debut will roll out nationwide in stores, online, and at special previews during Austin events and the Kentucky Bourbon Fest.

Purple Toad Winery & Distillery in Paducah has become the newest craft member of the Kentucky Distillers’ Association (KDA), marking a milestone for Western Kentucky’s growing spirits scene. Founded in 2024 as an offshoot of the family-owned winery, the 2,500-square-foot distillery produces Kentucky Straight Bourbon, other whiskeys, vodka, and agave spirits while creatively repurposing winemaking byproducts to reduce waste. General Manager Steven Dossey emphasized that their approach blends tradition with innovation, creating bold, unconventional spirits. KDA President Eric Gregory highlighted Purple Toad’s entrepreneurial spirit and sustainable practices as a valuable addition to the state’s $9 billion spirits industry, which supports over 23,000 jobs and drives tourism through the Kentucky Bourbon Trail. Purple Toad joins as a “Craft” member, aging fewer than 10,000 barrels annually.

The Ingram Distillery has unveiled Uncharted Kentucky Wheated Bourbon, a 92-proof expression aged entirely on the Mississippi River and packaged in 100% recycled glass. This wheated bourbon develops complexity through constant exposure to the river’s motion, humidity, and microclimate, a signature process the distillery calls “Mellowed on the Mississippi.” Tasting notes include dried fruit, vanilla, and toasted nuts on the nose; graham cracker, honey, and light spice on the palate; and a long finish with caramel, cinnamon, apples, and subtle leather and cocoa. Uncharted has already earned a Gold Medal and 95 points at the International Wine and Spirits Competition. Available in 750ml and 1L bottles ($39.99–$44.99), it continues Ingram’s tradition of innovative, river-aged whiskies and complements their O.H. Ingram River Aged series. Visitors can also explore invitation-only floating barrelhouse tours at the Columbus, KY, distillery.

Barrel Global has partnered with Middle West Spirits to offer bourbon enthusiasts the chance to purchase new-fill single barrels of Old Elk Wheated Bourbon. Limited to 50–100 barrels, each 200-liter barrel is priced at $2,500, with discounts for multiple purchases. Owners can oversee their barrel’s maturation in a secure Kentucky warehouse, sample along the way, and eventually design, bottle, and even resell their bourbon. Old Elk’s wheated bourbon features a mash bill of 51% corn, 45% wheat, and 4% malted barley. This program gives collectors full control over aging and bottling, blending hands-on experience with the award-winning craftsmanship of Middle West Spirits, Ohio’s largest distillery.

Buffalo Trace Distillery is taking its bourbon on the road for the first time this October, offering complimentary tastings in St. Louis, Kansas City, Jacksonville, and Tampa. Each city will host 10 sessions over four days, where participants can enjoy guided samplings of Buffalo Trace Bourbon, Eagle Rare 10 Year, Weller Antique 107, and Sazerac Rye 100 Proof. Beyond tasting, attendees will learn about the distillery’s history, notable figures in bourbon, and the stories behind its iconic brands. The tour also features exclusive city-specific barware for purchase. Registration opens September 10, with a four-ticket limit per person, making this a unique chance for bourbon fans who haven’t visited the Kentucky distillery to experience its heritage firsthand.

Lost Whiskey, the new bourbon venture from Mark Turner, will make its Jackson Hole debut at a Fall Arts Festival tasting at The Rusty Parrot on September 8. Inspired by a historic Virginia property once owned by George Washington, the high-rye, small-batch bourbon is aged at least four years and produced in limited quantities—about 1,500 cases annually. Turner’s bottles are uniquely slender 375ml vessels with numbered leather straps, meant to encourage shared drams and storytelling. Attendees can sample the whiskey alongside a live painting demonstration by artists Laurie Thal and Kathryn Mapes Turner. The event is free but requires an RSVP due to limited space.

Wild Turkey has capped its decade-long Master’s Keep series with Master’s Keep Beacon, a collaboration between second-generation master blender Eddie Russell and third-generation Bruce Russell. This 11th and final release blends a 16-year-old bourbon from Eddie with a 10-year-old bourbon personally distilled by Bruce, representing pivotal moments in their careers. Bottled at 59% ABV and priced at $390, the release is deeply personal, honoring their grandfather Jimmy Russell’s legacy while showcasing Bruce’s first hands-on distilling work. Beacon launches first in Australia, reflecting the country’s historical importance as a key export market for Wild Turkey.

High West is set to launch its newest Distillery Select on September 5, 2025—a blend of straight bourbons finished for one year in Hors d’Age Cognac barrels and bottled at 110 proof (55% ABV). Priced at $99.99, the limited release offers layers of huckleberries, citrus peel, butterscotch, and spiced vanilla on the nose, with flavors of green apples, blood orange pound cake, milk chocolate, and nutmeg on the palate. The finish shines with lemon bars and powdered sugar, evolving to fresh flowers and candied ginger with a drop of water. Available only at High West’s distillery and saloon general stores while supplies last.

Sagamore Spirit has released the Baltimore Ravens Festivus Maximus Small Batch Rye Whiskey, the third in its commemorative Ravens series. The limited-edition bottle celebrates the 25th anniversary of the team’s first championship in 2000, when “Festivus Maximus” became the locker room mantra. Bottled at 46.5% ABV, the Maryland-made rye delivers baking spices, golden apples, caramel, honey, and brown sugar, with a warm, spiced finish. Priced at $39.99, the whiskey is available this September at Sagamore Spirit’s waterfront distillery and select Maryland retailers—complete with the Ravens logo for collectors and fans alike.

Crestwood, Kentucky’s Trackside Distilling is upping the ante with its Founder Release 2025 High Proof, a 107-proof bourbon crafted from a toasted chocolate malted, four-grain mash bill and aged at least five years. Limited to just 900 bottles, the release debuts during the Kentucky Bourbon Festival and will retail for $72.99. Founded by Master Distiller Jade Peterson and industry veteran Jeremy Dever, Trackside is quickly gaining traction, with both its 93-proof and new High Proof bourbons now available across more than 100 Kentucky retailers, as well as the Kentucky Artisan Distillery and the Frazier Museum gift shop.

15 STARS has introduced its Artisan Collection, a blend of 15- and 12-year-old bourbons sourced from Kentucky and Indiana. Bottled at 109 proof and priced at $179, only 1,290 bottles are available nationwide and online. The release already took home Best Bourbon at the Spring 2025 John Barleycorn Awards, thanks to the brand’s Flavor Proofing™ process and high-corn mashbill that lends a dessert-like sweetness. Expect notes of maple, caramel, dried fruit, nutmeg, and oak, with a long finish of chocolate, roasted nuts, and leather. Timed to coincide with the Kentucky Bourbon Festival, the Artisan Collection is aimed squarely at collectors and enthusiasts of ultra-aged bourbon.

Coppercraft Distillery has rolled out two new 7-year-old bourbons, each with a unique finishing touch. The Rum Cask Finish spends an extra year in Caribbean rum barrels, delivering notes of dark sugar, oak spice, and tropical fruit. The Toasted Barrel Finish gets 12 months in slow-heat toasted barrels, layering caramel, toasted marshmallow, and warm spice. Both are bottled at 94 proof (47% ABV) and retail for $54.98, available now.

The Carolina Celtic Music Festival returns for its second year on September 26–27, hosted by Fae Nectar Meadery in scenic Lake Lure, North Carolina. Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, the event transforms the meadery’s concert hall and medieval tavern into a lively celebration of Celtic music, dance, and culture. Guests can enjoy performances from returning favorites and fresh talent, explore an artisan market filled with handcrafted goods, and savor Gaelic-inspired fare alongside Fae Nectar’s meads. Community Irish Sessions and a spirited Scottish Ceilidh round out the weekend of music, heritage, and merriment.

As we raise a glass this September, let’s celebrate the stories, traditions, and creativity that keep bourbon and mead at the heart of our community. Whether you’re discovering a new release, savoring an old favorite, or planning a festival weekend, there’s no better time to enjoy the rich heritage of America’s native spirit. Here’s to good pours and great company all month long!