A Bourbon Cocktail Soirée

There are many possible variations on the theme of “cocktail party.” You may want to compare Manhattan recipes. Or perhaps explore some pre-Prohibition punches. Recipes for classic and contemporary cocktails will be included, along with easy appetizers and delicious “mocktails” for designated drivers.

Food Pairings and Cooking with Bourbon

This chapter explains how to pair certain types of foods with various bourbon styles. Sample menus for various occasions are included: dinner with a few friends, summertime picnics, buffets for a crowd, etc. The chapter also features recipes and tips for cooking with bourbon.

Planning the Perfect Party

Whether a specific occasion, such as an anniversary or birthday party, or a celebration of a particular season or event, a party can take on an extra dimension with a well-defined theme. There are suggestions for seasonal themes, as well as themes having to do with food and drink. Appropriate invitation formats range from phone calls, to “e-vites,” to formal printed invitations. Tips for determining number and make-up of guests are included.

Setting Up the Perfect Bourbon Bar

From placement in the house or garden to all the accoutrements, the bar will be both welcoming and user-friendly, whether the party uses professional bartenders or features a make-your-own setup. This chapter describes what types of alcoholic and nonalcoholic beverages should be included, as well as how to arrange the table for more efficient flow. Photos and diagrams are included.

Bourbon Tables

The state’s major distilleries have gone well beyond simply offering tastings with their tours. Several host special dinners in historic facilities and some have even recently added restaurants. Descriptions of these will be accompanied with photographs and sample recipes to showcase each distillery’s style and hospitality culture.

How to Do a Bourbon Tasting

This is step-by-step guide to conducting a tasting party for an intimate gathering or a crowd, including the preparation that is required in advance: gathering the correct glassware, making tasting mats, preparing invitations. The pairing of dried fruit, nuts, cheese, and chocolate, and even marmalade is explained, as well as palate-cleansing tips.

Advanced Pairings for the Bourbon Food Fanatic

This chapter offers a deep dive into the subtleties and complexity of matching bourbon and food to bring out different layers of flavor. Bourbon flavor may be amplified, contrasted, even exploded. Charts outlining good pairings are included.

The Kentucky Derby Party

Every spring, horses and whiskey meet to celebrate “The Greatest Two Minutes in Sports,” the Kentucky Derby, which is run at Churchill Downs in Louisville on the first Saturday in May. While the horserace itself doesn't last long, it has given rise to what we in Kentucky like to think of as The Greatest Two Weeks in Partying. This chapter describes how to plan and arrange Derby-themed parties.