4 Ways to Celebrate Bourbon Heritage Month

If you love Bourbon as much as we do, you know that September holds special significance — it's National Bourbon Heritage Month!

On August 2, 2007, the US Senate officially declared September as "National Bourbon Heritage Month" to observe the family heritage, tradition, and deep-rooted legacy the industry contributes to the United States. Sponsored by Senator Jim Bunning of Kentucky, the bill passed by unanimous consent and now reinforces the 1964 Act of Congress declaring Bourbon as America's only native spirit.

Fast-forward to the present, and we continue to honor that heritage and the ongoing role Bourbon has played in our economy, history, and culture as a nation. Here are four ways to celebrate Bourbon this month!

1. Become a Bourbon Steward.

Obviously, we can't list ways to celebrate Bourbon without mentioning our sister brand, the Stave & Thief Society. Recognized by the Kentucky Distillers' Association (KDA) as its exclusive Bourbon education course, the Stave & Thief Society offers two opportunities to professionalize your passion for whiskey:

The Executive program involves spending a day at Moonshine University, where you'll have the time of your life as you attain a fundamental working knowledge of Bourbon and its production. Designed for industry professionals and enthusiasts alike, this day-long workshop offers state-of-the-art classroom training in our educational distillery, hands-on distilling, advanced sensory training, and plenty of tasty Bourbon to enjoy throughout the day (for educational purposes, of course). By the end of the experience, you'll have earned the Executive Bourbon Steward title.

The Associate Bourbon Steward certification teaches participants the same information and skills they would gain in the Executive program, but without the experience of learning it hands-on in our educational distillery. To get certified, order your copy of the Bourbon Steward Handbook online, study at your own pace, and take the online test to emerge as an Associate Bourbon Steward!

In addition to joining the thousands of Bourbon Stewards from around the world who have graduated from either program, you'll be able to walk away with a greater appreciation for your favorite spirit.

2. Host a Bourbon Event.

Conduct a tasting among friends or challenge your Bourbon group to a flight-building contest. If you're looking for advice on how to do either, there are plenty of resources online. Whisky Advocate offers this excellent guide to flight building, while the Kentucky Distillers' Association provides expert tips for hosting a tasting.

Of course, every good event needs great food. So, another idea might be to create a fun menu of food and drink pairings. For example, our team hosted an event where we matched our favorite barbecue sauces with delicious Bourbon companions.

You could also add a Bourbon-infused twist to your favorite recipe — maybe even make it a competition! There are plenty of sweet and savory dishes (and cocktails) to try that use Bourbon as a star ingredient.

3. Take a Trip to the Kentucky Bourbon Trail.

Bourbon is a giant part of Kentucky tourism, and that's no surprise, since 95 percent of the world's supply of it is produced in the Bluegrass State. If you want to get a closer look at the distilleries responsible for some of your favorite brands, then the Kentucky Bourbon Trail is the place to go. If you're local, most distilleries on the trail are within driving distance, making for an exciting weekend adventure. However, if you're making a more extended trip, you may need to do some planning. Check out the trail's "know before you go" recommendations for anyone planning to embark on this spirited journey,

Even if you can't commit to the entire trail, there's no need to worry. You can make a trip to your local distillery instead! With over 2,000 craft distilleries around the US, there's bound to be one nearby! It's a great way to support craft distillers and celebrate the history.

4. Expand Your Bourbon Collection.

Speaking of supporting craft brands, consider expanding your Bourbon collection by purchasing a bottle from a smaller producer. And if you've already got an impressive collection, challenge yourself to find something you haven't tasted before. You might discover a new favorite — and do some good in the meantime! Here's the American Distilling Institute's craft spirits database to assist you in your search.

We hope this quick list inspires you to find a special way to show your appreciation for Bourbon. Of course, however you choose to celebrate Bourbon Heritage Month, please remember to be safe and drink responsibly!

Interested in learning more about the distilling process and the spirits industry? Check out Moonshine University's upcoming courses to learn from the best in the business.