Kentucky Proud, which markets farm-fresh fare and ingredients from across the Bluegrass, will showcase the state’s top agricultural offerings and talented local chefs at June’s Kentucky Bourbon Affair fantasy camp June 5-10.
The Kentucky Bourbon Affair is an intimate six-day exploration into the state’s signature spirit with more than 40 events featuring behind-the-scenes tours, private barrel selections and specialty programs at the world’s most iconic distilleries and famous Louisville hotspots.
Tickets to select events are still available at www.kybourbonaffair.com.
“The Kentucky Bourbon Affair celebrates the homegrown allure and authenticity of Kentucky Bourbon, and you can’t get more genuine than Kentucky Proud,” said Eric Gregory, president of the Kentucky Distillers’ Association that operates the elite event. “We’re honored to feature Kentucky Proud products again this year.”
Kentucky Proud is the official state marketing program for farm products raised, grown or processed by Kentuckians. It is administered by the Kentucky Department of Agriculture and involves more than 7,000 farmers, retailers, restaurants, school, markets, and parks.
“The Kentucky Bourbon Affair gives bourbon lovers the opportunity to immerse themselves in Kentucky’s signature beverage and pair it with fresh, delicious Kentucky Proud foods while supporting our hardworking grain farmers,” Agriculture Commissioner Ryan Quarles said. “We are pleased to partner with the Kentucky Distillers’ Association for this world-class event.”
Gregory said Kentucky Proud products will be highlighted during the KBA’s second annual Higher Proof Expo, a daylong workshop on June 9, packed with unique educational and tasting sessions led by top industry professionals.
The Expo features 19 exclusive learning sessions, lunch and pop-up experiences with the best of Louisville and Kentucky’s food, drink and retail for the bourbon aficionado. The one-day pass is $150 with access to four sessions. Seating is limited. The event will be held at the Omni Hotel.
Kentucky Proud also will be front and center at the first-ever “Angel’s Fare” charitable event that night, alongside a silent auction of rare whiskeys, a vintage spirit tasting and an all-star lineup of Kentucky chefs offering bourbon-inspired culinary delights local ingredients.
The KBA announced last week that the “Angel’s Fare” will include an unprecedented auction of private single barrel releases hand-picked by five legendary master distillers of the Kentucky Bourbon Hall of Fame.
It’s the only whiskey event that’s actually created and executed by the distilleries themselves.
The Louisville Convention and Visitors Bureau is once again the top sponsor as Host City for the fifth straight year. Learn more about one of the world’s top “foodie” cities at www.gotolouisville.com.
Companies showcasing their products and services during the Higher Proof Expo include: 21C Museum Hotel – Proof on Main, Ale-8-One, Art Eatables, Drunkwood, Go To Louisville, Horse Country Tours, Kendra Scott, Louisville Water, Mint Julep Tours, R&R Limo/Copper Still Tours, Shaker Village, Steurer & Jacoby by Firebird, Sweet Mash Boutique, Upper Right Marketing, and Westport Whiskey & Wine.
In addition, Art Eatables will serve once again as the official chocolatier of the Kentucky Bourbon Affair. Art Eatables produces Kentucky Proud Bourbon truffle and is a sponsor of the Kentucky Bourbon Trail experience.
Tickets to individual Kentucky Bourbon Affair events are still available. Many include souvenir bottles, bourbon-infused cuisine, and commemorative gifts. Transportation is included in all ticket prices.
There are 17 distilleries featured this year: Angel’s Envy, Bulleit, Four Roses, Hartfield & Co., Heaven Hill, Jeptha Creed, Jim Beam, Limestone Branch, Maker’s Mark, Michter’s, Old Forester, O.Z. Tyler, Rabbit Hole, Town Branch, Wild Turkey, Woodford Reserve, and Wilderness Trail.
Said Gregory: “The Kentucky Bourbon Affair is a classic Bourbon lover’s dream. The partnership with Kentucky Proud just adds a new level to an already unforgettable experience.”
From Kentucky Distillers’ Association
