Raising a Glass as We Prepare for Bourbon Heritage Month

Bourbon Heritage Month is almost here, and distilleries are marking the occasion with new releases, big announcements, and plenty of reasons to celebrate. But it’s not just bourbon season, meaderies are keeping things lively too, with fresh bottles, festivals, and events that showcase the honeyed side of the glass. Whether your pour leans toward grain or hive, here’s what’s new right now.

Jackson Purchase Distillery, best known for its contract work, has stepped into the spotlight with the release of its own label, Jackson Purchase Bourbon. The four-year-old, 117.8-proof whiskey is crafted from a mash bill of 70% corn, 20% rye, and 10% malted barley. It is said to exhibit deeper color and maturity due to Western Kentucky’s hotter climate and calcium-rich aquifer water. Master Distiller Craig Beam, soon to be inducted into the Bourbon Hall of Fame, compared its look and taste to much older bourbons. The inaugural release comes from 15 carefully chosen barrels out of the distillery’s 100,000 laid down since 2021. Priced at about $60, the bourbon will debut at the Kentucky Bourbon Festival in Bardstown Sept. 5–7, before rolling out to liquor stores, bars, and restaurants across Kentucky.

Leiper’s Fork Distillery has opened the House of Spirits in downtown Franklin, a new venture that blends history, hospitality, and craft spirits. Created by Lee and Lynlee Kennedy, the space is designed as more than a bar; it’s a working micro-distillery, museum, restaurant, entertainment venue, and community hub. A copper pot still, the first legal one in Franklin in over a century, now operates on-site as part of the grain-to-glass tradition. The venue features Leiper’s Fork bourbon, rye, and whiskey alongside House of Spirits-branded gin and vodka, with an atmosphere inspired by London pubs but infused with Southern warmth. Guests can enjoy cocktails, food, live music, or even distilling classes, while future plans include a shuttle connecting the downtown spot to the main distillery in Leiper’s Fork.

The Kentucky Distillers’ Association praised Canada’s decision to restore zero-to-zero tariffs on Kentucky Bourbon under the USMCA, calling it a boost for American businesses and Canadian consumers. KDA President Eric Gregory highlighted the move as a step toward a permanent trade deal and thanked Alberta and Saskatchewan for already bringing Bourbon back to their shelves. Founded in 1880, the KDA represents the majority of Bourbon producers worldwide, from historic brands to craft distilleries, and supports tourism through the Kentucky Bourbon Trail and Craft Tour.

A federal judge has rejected Uncle Nearest founder Fawn Weaver’s bid to enter mediation and potentially sell the distressed whiskey brand. The ruling follows a lawsuit by lender Farm Credit Mid-America PCA over $108 million in defaulted loans, which led to the court placing the Nearest Green Distillery into receivership. Judge Charles Atchley noted that Weaver’s public comments on social media, made despite a gag order, were “troubling” and called out her description of the order as “hilarious.” Farm Credit argued that mediation attempts were a delaying tactic and that Weaver had not provided any formal offers or disclosed details of a proposed investor group. The court will now move forward under receivership while advising Weaver to consult counsel before making further public statements.

Update

Uncle Nearest has been placed under receivership after allegedly defaulting on $100 million in loans. The U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Tennessee appointed Phillip Young of Thompson Burton PLLC as receiver, granting him full control of Nearest Green Distillery operations while founders Fawn and Keith Weaver continue to own and guide the brand. Despite the legal shake-up, production and distribution remain unchanged, with Young emphasizing the move is meant to stabilize and strengthen the company. The Weavers voiced support, calling the receivership a tool to ensure Uncle Nearest’s continued success and commitment to honoring the legacy of Nearest Green.

Bourbon & Beyond returns for its 7th year, September 11–14 at the newly expanded Highland Festival Grounds in Louisville. The festival features five stages with over 120 artists, including The Lumineers, Phish, Jack White, Sturgill Simpson, Noah Kahan, and Ringo Starr & His All-Starr Band. Culinary and bourbon programming on the Fork & Flask curated by Kroger Stage highlights top chefs like Chris Santos, Edward Lee, and Esther Choi, alongside bourbon tastings with experts including Chris Blandford and Fred Minnick. Attendees can also enjoy Kentucky Proud products, live podcasts, panels on whiskey trends, comedy from Jim Gaffigan, and immersive experiences like amusement rides, glamping, and MINT VIP viewing platforms. Full festival passes and single-day tickets are still available, while select camping options remain on a waitlist.

James B. Beam Distilling Co. has released Baker’s 13-Year-Old Single Barrel Kentucky Straight Bourbon, a limited edition expression highlighting extended aging and unique barrel-driven flavors. Bottled at 107 proof, each bottle comes from an individual rickhouse barrel, producing distinct tasting notes based on warehouse location. The bourbon offers aromas of fruit, vanilla, and caramel, with a medium-bodied palate of oak, toasted nuts, and fruit, finishing warmly and robustly. Priced at $149.99, this release honors Baker Beam, Jim Beam’s grand-nephew, and continues the single barrel tradition that defines the brand’s place in the James B. Beam Small Batch Collection.

Deerfish Distilling Co., downtown Mobile’s first modern craft distillery, has officially opened with a ribbon-cutting and sneak-peek retail event. Founded by couples Austin and Ashley Hallford and Lee and Emilie Hallford, the distillery is currently offering “Fish Hook” vodka seltzers in three flavors, with spirits distilled off-site and mixed in-house. Full whiskey production is on hold until safety systems are installed, though the team plans to create small-batch clear spirits and eventually locally distilled whiskey. Deerfish aims to be a family-centered, community-focused distillery, celebrating Mobile’s local heritage and the antlered fish legend that inspired its name. A public grand opening, including tours, food, and merchandise, took place on August 23.

The Estate Whiskey Alliance, founded in 2024, has nearly tripled its membership in one year and now includes 16 members spanning distilleries, farmers, suppliers, and academic institutions. The Alliance promotes estate whiskey, requiring at least two-thirds of grains to come from land owned or controlled by the distillery, with all production occurring onsite. Certified products, such as Maker’s Mark’s Star Hill Farm Wheat Whisky, carry the Estate Whiskey Certified logo, providing transparency on grain origin and production. The Alliance also launched a research grant program, awarding its first grants to studies on Kentucky terroir for single malt whiskey and consumer perceptions of certified estate whiskeys, supporting both product quality and marketing insight.

Bushwood Spirits’ long-awaited Wheated Bourbon is hitting shelves late September, just in time for holiday gifting, with a retail price of $49.99. This small-batch, single-barrel release is limited to fewer than 5,000 bottles, offering a 94-proof “daily drinker” that’s remarkably smooth. The mash bill, 75% corn, 25% wheat, and 5% malted barley, is proudly listed on the label. Perfect neat, on the rocks, or in cocktails, this expression marks the first of five new Bushwood releases this fall, combining approachability, quality, and versatility.

Zymarium Meadery is opening enrollment for Year 3 of its coveted Order of the Golden Honeybee membership beginning September 1. Members pre-purchase six exclusive barrel-aged and specialty meads—never available to the public—at a discounted rate, while also gaining first access to releases, event tickets, taproom perks, giveaways, bottle shares, and an all-inclusive member party. With shipping (where allowed), proxy options, and even vintage cellar access, this program has become the cornerstone of Zymarium’s community. A few public spots remain open for the 2025 membership year.

A planned distillery in Georgetown, Kentucky, is under strain as multiple liens and lawsuits have been filed against Limestone Farms Distillery. Engineering firm Thoroughbred Engineering claims it is owed more than $740,000 for unpaid services, while other liens include a roofing company seeking $36,000. Records also show the distillery has nearly $9 million in mortgages tied to the project. Heavy equipment has already been pulled from the site, raising questions about its future, though owner Darin Dillow insists the venture is not bankrupt and says his attorney is handling the disputes.

At Techfest Louisville, Aaron Butler, senior project manager at Lofted Spirits, outlined how Bardstown Bourbon Company is embracing data, AI, and robotics to streamline operations. With nearly 1.35 million barrels aging between Bardstown and Green River, and 80% dedicated to contract clients, growth had left the distilleries relying on 68 disconnected systems—many duplicates, plus endless spreadsheets. Butler’s team consolidated the chaos, selecting Sage X3 ERP with a built-in warehouse management system. The new platform, set to go live within weeks, will unify operations into just six systems, making it a model “ERP for the industry” and driving efficiency for both Lofted’s own brands and its 60-plus contract partners.

The fourth annual Fiddles and Fifths: Bluegrass and Bourbon Festival hits downtown Winchester, VA, on September 13, blending free live music with plenty of bourbon. Headliners The Bridge City Sinners will bring their punk-tinged bluegrass flair, alongside local acts Reno and Dunla, and Brennan Edwards and the Monday Blues. Festivalgoers can enjoy free tastings from 12 Virginia distilleries—the largest lineup yet—while Heaven Hill’s rare and premium bourbons will be featured in two ticketed private tastings at the Bright Box Theater ($57.04, limited seating). Running from 1 to 7 p.m., the event showcases local shops and restaurants as much as bourbon and bluegrass, drawing more than 2,000 attendees last year.

Louisville has dedicated a street to Elmer Lucille Allen, who made history in 1966 as the first Black chemist at Brown-Forman. Now 94, Allen was celebrated Saturday with the unveiling of Elmer Lucille Allen Way in the Chickasaw neighborhood, where she has lived for more than 60 years. In addition to her groundbreaking career in bourbon, she also founded the Louisville Arts Council. Surrounded by friends, neighbors, and well-wishers, Allen credited her longevity to a simple lifestyle: no smoking, no drinking, and a lifelong commitment to community.

Bourbon & Banter is kicking off its 12th annual 30 Days of Bourbon Challenge on September 1 to celebrate National Bourbon Heritage Month. Participants are encouraged to sip a different bourbon each day, log their pours on the official online calendar, and share their journey on social media with #30DaysOfBourbon. Open to U.S. residents 21 and older, the challenge offers weekly prizes like bourbon swag, memberships, and exclusive gear, with more than a dozen distillery partners joining in. Founder Patrick “Pops” Garrett says it’s a fun way to honor America’s native spirit while supporting the distillers who keep the tradition alive. Full details and rules are available at BourbonBanter.com.

William Berkele Distillery in Garrard County is launching Burnt Tavern Bourbon on September 1, priced at $69.99 and available both in Kentucky and online. The new brand carries historical ties and star power, with Chip Tate—best known as the founder of Balcones Distilling and a pioneer of American single malt—leading the project alongside Kentucky investors. Tate’s influence brings a mix of innovation and tradition, promising a bourbon rooted in heritage yet shaped by a boundary-pushing distiller.

Since 2019, LongHorn Steakhouse has offered guests something special: its very own Knob Creek Single-Barrel Bourbon. Partnering with the iconic Jim Beam brand, LongHorn worked with the distillery team to hand-select barrels aged 9 to 14 years and bottled at a bold 120 proof. The result is a rich, caramel- and oak-forward bourbon with hints of smoke, vanilla, and spice—crafted from a mashbill of 75% corn, 13% rye, and 12% barley. About 200 casks were chosen, producing an estimated 44,000 bottles, most available only at LongHorn locations. Guests can sip it neat, enjoy its unique profile in the chain’s signature Old Fashioned, or pair it with a steakhouse favorite like the Outlaw Ribeye.

Good Trouble Bourbon isn’t just another Kentucky straight bourbon—it’s a movement in a bottle. Created by entrepreneur and advocate Dee M. Robinson, the small-batch spirit honors the late Congressman John Lewis’ call to “get into good trouble” by celebrating changemakers and supporting equity-driven causes through the Shine Your Light Foundation. Distilled with 8th-generation master distiller Jacob Call, it delivers a smooth, robust profile that has already earned platinum and multiple gold medals at top competitions. Beyond the accolades, the bourbon’s striking Lady Liberty label and mission-driven story set it apart, making it a meaningful pour whether enjoyed neat or in cocktails. As summer winds down, Good Trouble Bourbon is the perfect companion for backyard barbecues, offering both rich flavor and a toast to resilience, justice, and community.

South Philly’s Twisted Tail is bringing back its beloved Whiskey Bonanza on September 25, marking the event’s 11th year. The celebration of Bourbon Heritage Month promises more than 100 whiskey brands, live New Orleans jazz and blues, a pig roast, a cocktail competition, and even a cigar lounge set inside a retrofitted Airstream. Guests can opt for general admission ($65), VIP access ($85) with early entry and rare pours, or a $40 designated driver ticket. Food from Deke’s BBQ and the chance to vote in the cocktail contest keep the night interactive, while Friday happy hours throughout September offer bonus tastings and distillery insights. As Twisted Tail proprietor George Reilly puts it, Whiskey Bonanza isn’t just about the drinks—it’s about celebrating America’s whiskey heritage right where it began.

North Wilkesboro’s Stardust Cellars took home the Best Mead Award at the 2025 N.C. Wine Competition for its Country Peach mead, a lightly carbonated, low-ABV brew made with raw local honey and peaches. The 20th annual event, hosted by the N.C. Wine & Grape Council brought together more than 300 entries from 39 producers across the state, highlighting everything from traditional European varietals to Muscadine and hybrid blends. Other standout winners included Shadow Springs Vineyard, Windsor Run Cellars, Jolo Winery, Saint Paul Mountain Vineyards, Noble Cider, Point Lookout Vineyards, Rock of Ages Winery, and Hinnant Family Vineyards. Agriculture Commissioner Steve Troxler praised the competition as proof of North Carolina’s growing strength in wine, cider, and mead.

Bardstown Bourbon Co. is rolling out a pair of standout limited editions that showcase both blending artistry and global collaboration. Discovery Series #13 ($139.99, 110.8 proof) marks the first time the line has been double-barreled, spending time in both American and Hungarian oak. The result is a rich Kentucky straight bourbon layered with caramel, vanilla, dried fruit, and deeper notes of baking spice, campfire ash, and toffee. Also arriving is Maison Ferrand Finish II($139.99, 111.8 proof), a Kentucky straight whiskey finished for 15 months in Ferrand Cognac casks. Awarded Double Gold at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition, this release marries bourbon’s bold character with French finesse, offering black cherry, vanilla cream, rye spice, baked apple, pecan, and a hint of mint on the finish. Both bottles highlight Bardstown’s commitment to innovation while honoring tradition.

Rebel Bourbon is leaning into autumn flavors with its new Butter Pecan Bourbon Cream, a 30-proof blend of the brand’s wheated bourbon and all-natural cream. Bottled at 15% ABV, this limited release ($19.99/750mL) rolls out in September at Lux Row Distillers in Bardstown and retailers nationwide. With aromas of bourbon, cocoa, and brown sugar, the cream liqueur delivers buttery notes of vanilla, roasted pecans, caramel, and toffee. Master Distiller John Rempe calls it smooth enough to sip on its own, mix into cocktails, or even stir into coffee. Packaged in a bold black bottle with golden-brown accents, this release continues Rebel’s tradition of innovation while celebrating its 19th-century wheated bourbon roots.

Louisville-based Michter’s has once again taken the top spot in Drinks International’s annual “World’s Most Admired Whiskey” rankings, marking its third consecutive win. Voted on by 100 global experts—including bartenders, journalists, and buyers—the award recognizes Michter’s balance of tradition, innovation, and accessibility. Leaders at Michter’s expressed deep gratitude, noting the honor reflects not only their team’s dedication but also strong industry support. With operations spanning Shively, Springfield, and Louisville’s Fort Nelson, Michter’s continues to grow its reputation for high-quality bourbon, rye, sour mash, and American whiskey while cementing its place at the pinnacle of the global whiskey scene.

In another sign of bourbon’s cooling market, Kentucky Cooperage in Lebanon will lay off 110 workers starting October 19. The barrel maker, owned by Independent Stave, supplies many major distilleries and had expanded its Lebanon plant just two years ago with promises of new jobs. The cuts include production, maintenance, and logistics roles, though the plant itself will remain open. Employment at the site has already declined from around 500 in 2019 to 440 in 2022. The move follows Brown-Forman’s closure of its Louisville cooperage earlier this year and comes amid broader struggles for the industry, with big names like Wild Turkey, Bulleit, and Beam Suntory reporting weaker sales and several distilleries facing bankruptcies or receivership.

Barrell Craft Spirits has added a new release to its Cask Finish Series: Armagnac. This limited-edition bourbon blends Kentucky, Indiana, and Tennessee whiskeys aged 7 to 15 years, then finishes them in Armagnac casks for rich layers of dried fruit, burnt sugar, clove, and tobacco. Bottled at cask strength (113 proof), the bourbon balances bold spice with elegant depth, offering flavors from plum and toffee to warm vanilla. Priced at $84.99, it will be available online and at select retailers in September. This marks the latest creative finish from the Louisville-based blender, following Amburana, Mizunara, and other unique cask-influenced releases.

Barrell Craft Spirits also announced its latest release, Foundation Bourbon Single Barrels, a microblended series that undergoes secondary maturation for added depth and character. Each bottling begins with two Indiana five-year-old barrels blended, then re-barreled and aged further in prime spots within the BCS rickhouse. For the first time, rick numbers will be highlighted on labels, underscoring the influence of the aging environment. The first 40 barrels, known as the Founder’s Series, are rolling out now in select markets. Produced in small, low-yield batches, these single barrels promise concentrated flavor and rarity, making them a special find for collectors and enthusiasts.

California’s Hinterhaus Distilling will release the fourth and final bottling of its Trapper’s Oath Rye Whiskey 21 Year on August 29, 2025. Aged in the Sierra Nevada at 4,000 feet, this rare Canadian-sourced rye (53% rye, 47% corn) spent extra years in the distillery’s ex-bourbon casks, which previously held stout beer, creating layers of complexity. The first three releases sold out quickly, and this last chapter promises to be just as sought-after. Founded in 2020, Hinterhaus is known for its mountain-influenced aging and collaborations that highlight its unique California setting.

Twin brothers Derek and Dominick Zirkle have taken their hobby of mead-making to the big leagues with D&D Meadery in Mentor, Ohio. Just a year after going professional, their lineup of five meads—ranging from sweet varieties like Maple Syrup and Strawberry Raspberry to drier options like Blueberry Blackberry and Red Apple—is now sold in 300 outlets, including Heinen’s and top wine shops. Using locally sourced honey from Northeast Ohio apiaries, Amish maple syrup, and hand-pressed fruit, the brothers have built a reputation for quality mead rooted in tradition and family effort. On Sept. 10, they’ll showcase their offerings at a tasting event at Red, Wine & Brew in Mentor, giving fans a chance to sample their growing portfolio and hear what’s next.

Chattanooga Whiskey is rolling out the 7th release in its Barrel Finishing Series, a Michigan Maple Syrup Cask Finished bourbon. Launching August 28 at the Experimental Distillery for $59.99, this limited release also heads to select markets and Seelbachs.com. Aged over 4 years and finished for a year in late-harvest Michigan maple syrup barrels, the whiskey blends mash bills SB091 and SB076 to deliver rich layers of maple candy, toasted grain, malted milk ball, and soft oak. With only 6–8 barrels in the batch, this 95-proof release offers a sweet, malty take on Tennessee High Malt.

Louisville’s Pursuit Spirits, founded by Kenny Coleman and Ryan Cecil of the Bourbon Pursuit podcast, has unveiled Old Anvil, a one-time, distillery-exclusive release. The whiskey’s journey began in 2019, when the team bought four barrels from a renowned Kentucky distillery—only to find the liquid tasted of grass and hay. Tucked away and nearly forgotten, the barrels transformed over 11 years into a rich, nutty bourbon that finally earned its place in Pursuit’s Mellwood Legacy Collection. Bottled at cask strength (119.4 proof) and inspired by a long-lost Louisville label, Old Anvil will be available in 375mL bottles for $99.99 exclusively at their new Whiskey Row location starting August 28, with limited daily allocations.

Bardstown’s new Trail Hotel has officially joined the Kentucky Bourbon Trail® experience, making it the only full-service hotel in the city with this designation. Opened in May 2025, the 95-room property blends upscale hospitality with Bourbon culture through features like the Oak & Ember restaurant, five bars (including a speakeasy), and a wellness-focused Rejuvenation Room. By partnering with the Kentucky Distillers’ Association, the Trail Hotel positions itself as a central hub for visitors exploring the “Bourbon Capital of the World.” The move reflects the Trail’s ongoing growth—drawing a record 2.7 million visitors in 2024—and highlights Bardstown’s role at the heart of Bourbon tourism.

Independent bottler Lost Lantern is celebrating Bourbon Heritage Month with Far-Flung Bourbon III, a bold new blend uniting six bourbons from six different states: Frey Ranch (NV), Wollersheim (WI), Rock Town (AR), Rich Grain (MS), Still Austin (TX), and Smooth Ambler (WV). Bottled at cask strength (124.8 proof, $100 SRP), the release showcases the diversity of American bourbon in a single bottle—layered, complex, and adventurous. Co-founder and blender Nora Ganley-Roper calls it their “most ambitious Far-Flung Bourbon yet,” noting that the challenge of harmonizing flavors across regions results in a whiskey that tells a story no single distillery could on its own. Lost Lantern continues its mission of spotlighting unique American distilleries through rare single casks and distinctive blends.

The future of Kentucky Owl bourbon may come down to its barrel inventory. The cult brand and its owner, Stoli’s U.S. arm, have been in Chapter 11 since November 2024 and now propose paying off $78 million in debt with about 35,000 barrels of unfinished bourbon, bottled stock, and a lien on undeveloped Bardstown property once slated for a $150 million distillery project. Fifth Third Bank, however, is fighting the plan, warning the depressed bourbon market could leave it $60 million short and pushing for an independent fiduciary to take over. Without approval, Kentucky Owl could be forced into Chapter 7 liquidation, a fate that highlights broader industry struggles as oversupply, inflation, and waning demand squeeze distilleries across Kentucky.

Houston’s Yellow Rose Distilling has released its first new whiskey in two years with Travis County Blended Whiskey, the second entry in its Texas Craft County Series. Following the Harris County bottling, this edition pays tribute to Austin and blends 100% Texas corn whiskey with a traditional bourbon mash bill aged in new American oak. Crafted by master blender Toni Hardisty, one of the few female whiskey makers in Texas, the 86-proof spirit delivers notes of brown sugar, applewood, toasted marshmallow, tobacco, chocolate, and hints of banana. Retailing at $39.99, Travis County is available across Texas and continues Yellow Rose’s mission to showcase the state’s regional character through its whiskeys.

Lexington’s Town Branch Distillery is making waves with not one but two new allocated annual releases: Town Branch Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey and Town Branch 7-Year Kentucky Single Malt Whiskey. Both are crafted under the distillery’s new blend-to-order approach, designed to deliver more distinctive and limited offerings. The rye, bottled at 100 proof and featuring a mash bill heavy on rye spice, balances youthful energy with mature depth, while the 87-proof single malt showcases Kentucky’s growing presence in the American Single Malt category, aged at least seven years in upcycled cooperage. With SRPs under $50 and only about 475–487 cases of each available, these whiskeys give enthusiasts a chance to explore two emerging categories at an accessible price point without skimping on quality.

Castle & Key Distillery has opened early applications for its new membership program, The Key Collective, offering whiskey fans rare access to exclusive bottles, private events, and behind-the-scenes experiences. Membership starts at $1,000 for individuals or families, with limited spots available. Perks include experimental spirits like a 7-Year Hickory King Single Barrel and a rye finished in Vino De Naranja barrels, VIP access at distillery locations, complimentary tours, discounted cocktails, and tickets to events like the Spring House Music Series. The inaugural members’ event will be held on September 12, featuring tastings and a chance to meet the Castle & Key team.

Atlanta Magazine’s Whiskey Festival returns October 9 for its 10th year, bringing more than 30 distillers, live music, and local restaurant bites to Guardian Works at Echo Street West. Guests can sip cocktails from big names like Elijah Craig, Four Roses, and Widow Jane alongside local makers such as Old Fourth Distillery. Highlights include unique drinks like a Broadstreet Bourbon New York Sour, cigar rolling, lawn games, and even a golf simulator. Tickets are $75 for general admission or $130 for VIP, which offers early entry, special pours, and lounge access. Organizers say the festival has grown into a true Atlanta tradition, combining whiskey, food, and storytelling in one lively night out.

Central Oregon’s Lazy Z Ranch is releasing its 2023 Estate Traditional Style Mead, crafted entirely from the ranch’s own honey, as part of its Fall Wine Club Release. The announcement comes during a challenging wildfire season, making the mead — a pure expression of their bees’ work and regenerative farming — feel especially meaningful. Fresh honey harvested this week will become the 2025 Estate bottling, underscoring the ranch’s focus on patience and sustainability. In brighter news, Lazy Z’s long-awaited tasting room is nearly complete, with plans to open in mid-September for visitors to enjoy future pours on-site.

Garrison Brothers Distillery has once again shown its community spirit, donating more than $137,000 to the volunteer fire departments of Stonewall and Johnson City. The funds were raised during the distillery’s annual Winner Winner Chicken Dinner, held each June after the Stonewall Peach Jamboree Parade. Over 500 guests enjoyed fried chicken, whiskey cocktails, and live music at the event, which split proceeds evenly between the two firehouses. Stonewall VFD plans to use its share of $68,926.50 toward building a specialized tanker to improve firefighting efficiency, with additional funds supporting swift water training and equipment. Co-founder Nancy Garrison emphasized the tight-knit bond between the Hill Country towns, calling the donation an honor to support those who help keep the community safe.

Edenvale Winery in Medford will host the 2025 Oregon Honey & Mead Festival on September 13 from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Timed with National Honey Month, the event is organized by Cascade Girl and highlights honey, bees, and mead with tastings, education, and community celebration. More details can be found at cascadegirl.org or oregonhoneyfestival.com.

Buzzard’s Roost Sipping Whiskey has unveiled its first Founders’ Select Single Barrel Bourbon, kicking off a new monthly single barrel series. The debut release is a 6-year-old bourbon bottled at 114.2 proof with a mash bill of 60% corn, 36% rye, and 4% malted barley, priced at $95. Available exclusively online and at the brand’s Louisville distillery, this limited edition highlights Buzzard’s Roost’s innovative approach to secondary maturation using custom-toasted barrels and Char #1. Fans can also sample single barrels at the upcoming Kentucky Bourbon Festival as the brand continues its expansion into new markets.

Shea’s Performing Arts Center is celebrating its 100th anniversary with a unique bourbon complicity with Hartman’s Distilling. Four barrels of bourbon were aged inside the chambers of Shea’s Mighty Wurlitzer organ during the 2024-25 Broadway season, creating the Shea’s Centennial Blend 285 Special. The limited release will debut at a celebration on September 5 at Hartman’s.

Cathead Distillery, Mississippi’s first legal distillery since Prohibition, has unveiled Estate Collection #3, a 7-year straight bourbon made with a unique addition—locally grown sorghum. The mashbill is 65% corn, 28% wheat, and 7% sorghum, all sourced from Mississippi fields, and bottled at cask strength (111.5 proof). Just 17 barrels were produced, with tasting notes highlighting honey, vanilla, molasses, caramel, and a spiced finish. Priced at $75, this limited release is available across 13 Southern and Midwestern states and through select online retailers. With its emphasis on local agriculture and roots in Mississippi’s culture, Cathead continues to push bourbon in a distinctive regional direction.

Two Georgia-born companies are raising their glasses to Bulldog Nation with bourbon releases tied to UGA pride. Athens’ Creature Comforts Brewing is branching into spirits with Glory Glory Bourbon, a 100-proof small-batch blend sourced from Bardstown Bourbon Co. barrels. With notes of toasted oak, honey, fig, and brown sugar, it celebrates the echoes of the Dawgs’ fight song. Meanwhile, Atlanta’s ASW Distillery adds Hunker Bourbon to its Bulldog-inspired lineup. This 100-proof wheated bourbon, offering flavors of baking spice, candied pecans, and caramel, follows last year’s Hunker Vodka and supports UGA Athletics through the Classic City Collective. Together, these bottles embody both school spirit and Southern craftsmanship.

Heaven Hill Distillery is giving its Bottled-in-Bond bourbon a collectible twist with the debut of its Artist Series Collection, featuring watercolor label designs by Kentucky artist Bri Bowers. The five unique labels celebrate the distillery’s history and heritage, from Bardstown rickhouses and Louisville landmarks to the soon-to-open Heaven Hill Springs Distillery. Two designs will be exclusive to Bardstown visitor centers, including one honoring the distillery’s famed barrel rolling team. Inside, the bourbon remains the familiar seven-year Bottled-in-Bond expression, priced at $49.99 and available nationwide in limited quantities starting in September. Adding extra excitement, select bottles will feature a Golden Cork Sweepstakes, with winners earning an exclusive behind-the-scenes Heaven Hill experience.

That wraps up this week’s round of bourbon and mead highlights. With September almost here, it’ll officially be Bourbon Heritage Month, a perfect excuse (as if we needed one) to pour a glass, try something new, and toast the traditions that make this spirit so special. Cheers, and see you next week!