We know that a fine Bourbon may enhance the cozy mood that permeates American homes on Thanksgiving. Have you ever been curious about how the folks who create your favorite Bourbon celebrate the holiday?
The All-American Touch
If you visit us on Thanksgiving, and you turn on the TV, you will see the much-anticipated football game in full swing. By noon, people have already poured themselves half of their lunch-time cocktail or cup of Beaujolais to drink. With tasty treats and beverages readily available, a leisurely pace is the norm of the day.
The delicious aroma of red wine frequently draws us in as the turkey, sweet potatoes, and cranberry sauce are set out for the main afternoon feast. The magic, though, occurs after everyone has finished eating and the conversations have grown more in-depth. We’ll open a bottle with history, such as a Pappy Van Winkle or The Balvenie 30 from Dad’s collection. Sometimes it’s a bottle from another country, like Japan’s Hibiki 12-year-old or Taiwan’s Kavalan special edition.
The cold isn’t as severe in Scottsdale, Arizona as it is on the eastern coast of the United States. We could be wearing shorts throughout the day, but as the sun sets and the desert cools, a thick dram of whisky is the perfect accompaniment to a heartfelt conversation.
Lessons from Bourbon’s Founding Fathers
Campbell Brown, The Roar of the Old Forest
Campbell Brown’s association with Old Forester isn’t just familial; it’s deeply personal. Old Forester, being one of America’s oldest Bourbon brands, has seen the nation evolve, and with it, the tastes and preferences of its drinkers. Here’s what stands out about Campbell and his brand:
- Innovations Galore: Under Campbell’s leadership, Old Forester has experienced modern advancements while maintaining respect for tradition. The brand introduced a series of expressions that capture the distinct flavors tied to different steps in the Bourbon-making process.
- Bridging Generations: Campbell often talks about the intersection of history and the future. For him, it’s essential to appreciate the brand’s storied past while making it relevant and approachable for newer Bourbon enthusiasts.
- Global Touch: Campbell’s Canadian background and his family’s Irish roots contribute to Old Forester’s multifaceted identity. His experiences have been instrumental in understanding global whiskey markets, ensuring Old Forester maintains its charisma, be it in Louisville or London.
Bourbon isn’t the only thing that binds the Browns together; mom’s side of the family, the Caseys, also brought American and Irish heritage to the table. While we don’t typically serve Bourbon at Thanksgiving, vintage Old Forester holiday decanters from the 1950s and 1960s are a common sight. Aunt Dace’s favorite thing to do is recite a toast from the turn of the century, which she claims is more entertaining than any commercial from today. Coming from Montreal, Canada, to what felt like the “deep south” to us (Louisville) on Thanksgiving was always a highlight of the year.
Fletcher, Chris, from Jack Daniel’s
Lynchburg is where Jack Daniel’s was first produced, therefore whisky has the same familiarity there as other staples of the kitchen. In our house, a ‘toddy’ is a glass of ice water with a healthy splash of Jack Daniel’s Single Barrel or Old No. 7 poured over it, and it’s a tradition to start drinking them before the turkey is brought out. His granddad, Frank Bobo, was the master distiller, so drinking a bottle from the 1970s brings back fond memories. The experience of opening it with loved ones on Thanksgiving was unforgettable.
Chris, representing Jack Daniel’s, comes from a town where everyone knows everyone else, and most have a connection to the iconic brand.
- Tales of Lynchburg: Lynchburg isn’t just the home of Jack Daniel’s; it’s where stories of generations intertwine. Chris often shares tales of the town’s close-knit community and how it became the soul of the brand.
- Distiller’s Touch: With a keen nose and a discerning palate, Chris plays an instrumental role in ensuring that every Jack Daniel’s maintains its signature taste, balancing innovation with the brand’s revered recipes.
- Paying Homage: Chris’s anecdotes frequently revolve around family members who’ve been associated with the brand, like his grandfather Frank Bobo. Their stories aren’t just familial; they’re the living history of Jack Daniel’s.
Fred Noe
Representing the Beam family and their Bourbon legacy, Fred Noe is as much a storyteller as he is a distiller. What do we not know about Fred:
- Beyond the Whisky Sour, the Beams have an arsenal of cocktail recipes, each with its unique story. Be it a cocktail with a twist of orange zest or a punch with a hint of mint; their recipes have been passed down and cherished.
- Fred has been pivotal in educating people about Bourbon. Through guided tastings and masterclasses, he’s shared the nuances of whiskey making and tasting, ensuring the legacy thrives with each new generation.
- Fred is a passionate ambassador for American Whiskey, not just in the US but across oceans. His tales of introducing American Whiskey to different cultures and seeing their reactions are both heartwarming and insightful.
The Beams drink whisky year-round because it is a constant companion. Fred’s mother’s Whisky Sour is a signature drink at their parties. It’s a zesty treat that’s made with frosted lemonade, a glass of OJ, and American Whiskey Bourbon. They like the traditional aspects of the holiday season, like sharing delicious food and drinks with loved ones and drinking excellent Bourbon.
Thanksgiving’s Central Meaning
Bourbon distillers say that even if the menu and drinks change, the true meaning of Thanksgiving never does. It’s a time to come together, to treasure the little things, and to rejoice in your interests. Bourbon is more than a business to these households; it’s a part of their history and culture that they celebrate by drinking and sharing.