BBQ and Barrels, the “reborn” version of the International Bar-B-Q Festival, is set for May 12 and 13. Officials have added three classes for those interested in learning about bourbon tasting and drink making. Each class is priced at $25, with limited tickets on sale.
Each class lasts approximately 45 minutes and they run concurrently, so registrants will only be able to attend one class. All three are on the third floor of the Owensboro Convention Center. To be able to purchase a class ticket, you must first purchase a VIP or general admission ticket. Tickets can be purchased here.
“It’s hard to imagine finding a more whimsical experience at a better value than taking one of these classes. With spots for only 25 people per class, I fully expect these tickets to sell out in a matter of days,” said Dave Kirk, Visit Owensboro Destination Management.
The classes, and descriptions as provided by event organizers, are as follows:
The Art of The Finish: Secondary Aging Techniques with Jefferson’s
Bourbon Finishes: This session will be led by Jefferson’s. It will focus and demonstrate the effects of barrel finishing on the final product using a diverse range of finished whiskeys.
Cognac Rye:
Jefferson’s Straight Rye Whiskey Finished in Cognac Casks marries the spice of American Rye with the refinement of cognac. Double barreled for at least 9 months and up to 19 months, it exemplifies Jefferson’s renowned and innovative maturation techniques. The Cognac finish adds complexity and depth to the typical one dimensional character of the spice of rye whiskey. The typical dryness on the finish is replaced with a thick mouth feel and honey and orange. A true sipping rye whiskey.
Barrel Aged Manhattan:
Jefferson’s and Esquire team up to create “The Manhattan.” Perfectly finished, perfectly balanced – the perfect Manhattan. Made with Jefferson’s Reserve bourbon, spiced cherry bitters, and sweet and dry vermouth, then barrel finished to perfection.
Old Rum Cask Finish:
Jefferson’s Reserve Old Rum Cask Finish has spent many years maturing in American white oak casks before being transferred into specially selected old rum casks that previous held Goslings Family Reserve, awarded the best aged rum in Bermuda. Extra aging for 15 months in these casks creates a rich and rounded bourbon whiskey; marrying the flavor of an award winning bourbon with the mouth feel, complexity and finish of a reserve.
Mixology 101: Learn The History & How To Make This Perfect Prohibition Era Cocktail – “Vieux Carre”
Jeptha Creed’s talented drink making master, Chris Wilkins, will lead an interactive “DIY” cocktail making session using Jeptha Creed Bottled in Bond Rye Heavy Bourbon, Copper & Kings American Brandy, sweet vermouth, Benedictine liquor and Peychaud’s bitters. “Vieux Carre,” or Old Square in French, is a prohibition-era cocktail created in New Orleans and named after the famed city quarter. A perfect balance of old style and new flavors, the combination of Jeptha Creed Rye Heavy Bourbon and Copper & Kings American Brandy give this classic cocktail a more unique, contemporary twist.
Uniqueness of Four Roses: Led by Master Distiller Brent Elliott
Join Master Distiller, Brent Elliott as he leads guests through examining the Uniqueness of Four Roses Bourbon. Guests will be guided through the brand history and the production process that makes its 10 unique bourbon recipes, as well as sample their four standard products: Four Roses Bourbon, Small Batch, Single Barrel, Small Batch Select and one surprise expression.
