Last Updated on March 27, 2024 by Lydia Martin
Every year, bourbon enthusiasts pay homage to America’s native spirit-bourbon. National Bourbon Day celebration can be a good excuse to dust off a fine bourbon on your liquor shelves and enjoy the odd tipple.
But When is National Bourbon Day, and how should you celebrate it? Get your glasses ready because we’re about to tell you.
Celebrating The National Bourbon Day
Bourbon has captured global attention because of its unique and fine whiskey flavor. Every year, people all over the country get to enjoy a glass or two to pay homage to the whiskey.
Others try new bourbon-based cocktails for a change, go to Kentucky for a bourbon tour, and learn more about the bourbons in new charred oak barrels.
When Is It Celebrated?
National Bourbon Day is celebrated every June 14, and on this day, people get to learn and appreciate the nation’s well-loved American spirit-bourbon. All bourbons are whiskeys, and not all whiskeys are bourbon, but one thing is clear: bourbon is an all-American whiskey.
Bourbons can be produced anywhere in the United States [1] and not just in Kentucky, unlike Cognac, which should be from Cognac Region only.
National Bourbon Day’s Brief History
Bourbon day is celebrated every year on the day the first time bourbon was distilled in the late 1700s. Some believe bourbon acquired its name to honor Bourbon County in Kentucky, where the corn used in most recipes is growing; others believed it was named after a street in New Orleans.
In 1964 the US Congress declared bourbon a native spirit [2], and to be officially called bourbon, it should be made from a mash of at least 51% corn [3]. However, some use 70% corn, so it has the nickname corn whiskey.
Other grains like rye or wheat and malted barley are fermented, distilled, filled, and aged in a new charred oak barrel for only two years minimum.
How To Celebrate National Bourbon Day
Organize A Bourbon-Tasting Party
One way to commemorate bourbon day is by organizing your own bourbon tasting party. You can invite a few friends over and personally choose the bottle selection.
Bourbon Day is the best time to try different brands – new and vintage bourbons. You can host tastings, discover, smell, and enjoy each flavor of the distilled spirit.
Try Bourbon-Based Cocktails
Drinking bourbon-based cocktails like Bourbon Old Fashioned will always be a classic way. You can also try some bourbon Mint Julep- a must-have bourbon cocktail at the Kentucky Derby.
Bourbon Manhattan, named after the city that never sleeps, is an iconic bourbon-based cocktail. Mix your favorite Kentucky bourbon whiskey with bitters, and sweet vermouth, then garnish it with orange peel and maraschino cherry.
Visit The Bourbon Capital Of The World
If you have the luxury of time or want to do different this time, why not visit the Bourbon Capital of the World in Bardstown, Kentucky?
Most distillers in the town offer a bourbon tour where you can learn their history and access their distillery. Master distillers even let you taste the distinct flavor of their crafted bourbons.
Watch Neat: The Bourbon Film
There’s a full-length documentary on bourbon called NEAT: The Story of Bourbon released last 2018 that you can stream while savoring the flavors of the whiskey. NEAT dives and explores the colorful history and process of bourbon. If you haven’t watched it, now is a great time!
Why Enthusiasts Love Celebrating It
It’s All-American
Whiskeys can be made everywhere from Scotland to Brooklyn, but in 1964, Congress declared bourbon as America’s Native Spirit, so distillers should purely make it in America.
While the US produces different exceptional beers and wines, you can trace their origin back and lead you to other countries or cultures but not bourbon.
Bourbon Is Fairly Versatile
Bourbon is a versatile liquor, and you can drink it neat, on the rocks, or as a cocktail. You can add a splash of water for the aroma to open up or use it as a substitute in whiskey-based drinks.
Bourbon whiskies can make your night more special because there are different cocktail recipes you can try with distilled spirits.
Bourbon Equates To Adulting
Note this: bourbon is the drink for real adult men and women.
Most drinkers start with beer, wine, or vodka, but bourbon is a real adult drink, especially since it has high alcohol by volume content. It is accessible, can be expensive at times but surely a great spirit you can enjoy with friends and family in any events.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is September National Bourbon Month?
No, September is not National Bourbon Month. The US Senate passed the resolution in 2007, declaring that September is National Bourbon Heritage Month to commemorate the American spirit.
When did National Bourbon day begin?
The National Bourbon Day began on June 14, 1789, when Rev. Elijah Craig first produced the bourbon. Most people credit Craig for inventing bourbon, so to remember the occasion, every June 14, bourbon enthusiasts celebrate the day.
Why is June 14th Bourbon Day?
June 14th is celebrated as Bourbon Day to honor the birth of bourbon, which is a uniquely American spirit.
On this day in 1789, Reverend Elijah Craig, a Kentucky distiller, is said to have first distilled bourbon. This date is a nod to the rich history and craftsmanship associated with bourbon production in the United States.
Is today Bourbon Day?
To determine if today is Bourbon Day, you would need to check the current date.
If it happens to be June 14th, then yes, it is Bourbon Day, a time for enthusiasts and connoisseurs to celebrate the heritage and flavors of this iconic American whiskey.
What month is Bourbon Month?
Bourbon Month is typically observed in September. While June 14th specifically honors the creation of bourbon, the entire month of September is often dedicated to celebrating this beloved spirit.
During Bourbon Month, various events, promotions, and tastings take place to showcase the diversity and craftsmanship of different bourbons.
Is this a Bourbon Day?
To determine if today is a Bourbon Day, you would again need to check the current date. If it’s not June 14th or during the month of September, there may not be a specific designation as a Bourbon Day.
However, every day is an opportunity for bourbon enthusiasts to enjoy and appreciate their favorite spirit.
Is June 14 a special day?
Yes, June 14th is considered a special day for bourbon enthusiasts as it marks the anniversary of the creation of bourbon by Reverend Elijah Craig. It’s a day to reflect on the history and traditions of bourbon-making, as well as to savor the distinct flavors that make bourbon a cherished spirit worldwide.
What is National June 14th Day?
There is no specific “National June 14th Day” recognized on a broad scale. However, for bourbon enthusiasts, June 14th holds special significance as Bourbon Day. It’s a day to celebrate the heritage and craftsmanship behind this quintessentially American whiskey.
While not a nationally recognized holiday, for bourbon lovers, June 14th is a day to raise a glass and toast to the rich history of this iconic spirit.
Why is it called bourbon?
Bourbon gets its name from Bourbon County, Kentucky, where it is believed to have originated.
The whiskey produced in this region became known as Bourbon whiskey, and over time, the name stuck. Despite its roots, bourbon can be produced anywhere in the United States.
Is bourbon always whisky?
Yes, bourbon is a type of whiskey. More specifically, it is a distilled alcoholic beverage made primarily from corn and aged in charred oak barrels.
All bourbons are whiskey, but not all whiskies are bourbon, as bourbon must meet specific legal requirements, including being made in the United States with a mash bill that is at least 51% corn.
What alcohol is bourbon?
Bourbon is a type of distilled alcoholic beverage classified as whiskey. It is made from a mash bill that includes at least 51% corn, and the spirit is aged in new charred oak barrels.
The distinctive flavor profile of bourbon includes notes of caramel, vanilla, and sometimes a hint of spice, contributing to its popularity among whiskey enthusiasts.
What is the difference between whiskey and bourbon?
While all bourbons are whiskey, not all whiskies are bourbon. The key differences lie in the production process and location. Bourbon must be made in the United States, have a mash bill containing at least 51% corn, and be aged in new charred oak barrels.
Whiskey, on the other hand, is a broader category that includes various types such as Scotch, Irish whiskey, and bourbon, each with its own production regulations and flavor profiles.
When was bourbon born?
Bourbon’s birth is often associated with the late 18th century, around the 1780s to 1790s. Reverend Elijah Craig, a Kentucky distiller, is credited with the accidental creation of bourbon during this time.
The spirit’s popularity grew, and by the 19th century, bourbon had become a well-established and cherished American whiskey.
How do you celebrate Bourbon Heritage Month?
Bourbon Heritage Month, observed in September, is a time to celebrate the history, culture, and craftsmanship of bourbon. Activities may include visiting distilleries for tours and tastings, participating in bourbon-themed events, and enjoying special releases. Enthusiasts often use this month to explore different bourbon brands and expressions, savoring the unique flavors that make bourbon a beloved spirit.
Whether through organized events or personal tastings, Bourbon Heritage Month provides an opportunity for people to come together and appreciate the heritage of this iconic American whiskey.
So, When Is National Bourbon Day?
June 14 is National Bourbon Day, and it is the day when Rev. Craig first distilled bourbon. You can spend the day sipping bourbons, trying new cocktails, seeing a documentary, or stopping by a distillery.
No matter what the plans would be on that day, drinking bourbon is the best way to enjoy the holiday. Raise your glasses and cheers!
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