Emma Jones
Get Ready for Bourbon and Beyond 2023
Amidst the commendable backdrops of Louisville, Kentucky, you have Bourbon and Beyond – a marriage of everything we love – high-quality bourbon, live music, and southern hospitality. But the charm of this festival doesn’t end just there. The focal point that makes it a bucket list event for many is the unique blend of world-class bands and heaps of the finest bourbons on offer. It’s a bluesy, boozy manifestation of celebration in the world of spirits and melodies.
Brace yourselves for Bourbon and Beyond 2023! We’re here to give you a sneak-peek at five blends of bluesy bands and bourbons you can expect at the fest.
Bourbon-Band Pairing #1: Elijah Craig & Buddy Guy
Elijah Craig – Grassroots Bourbon at its Best
Elijah Craig is a small batch bourbon that oozes quality. From its birth in historically rich Kentucky to your glass, it’s a journey of passion and craftsmanship. It offers notes of caramel, vanilla, and a hint of spice, which makes it a perfect bourbon to nurse as your feet tap to the melodies of the festival.
Buddy Guy – The Legend of Blues
Can you imagine a blues festival without Buddy Guy? Neither can we. This legendary blues musician embodies the soul of American tunes. Expect him to walk you through an enriching experience of powerful vocals, guitar rifts, and energy that can match even the strongest of bourbons.
Bourbon-Band Pairing #2: Buffalo Trace & Bonnie Raitt
Buffalo Trace – The Essence of American Whisky
Buffalo Trace, a staple in any self-respecting bourbon enthusiast’s collection, is a smooth, versatile dram. The rich, sweet, earthy tones of this bourbon offer a taste that will leave you wanting more, much like the smooth tunes of Bonnie Raitt.
Bonnie Raitt – The Siren of Blues
Bonnie Raitt, a classic and timeless blues singer and slide guitarist, is the ultimate blues goddess. Her sultry voice, tinged with raw and deep emotions, pairs well with the rich Buffalo Trace, offering an experience that’s truly soulful and satisfying.
Bourbon-Band Pairing #3: Woodford Reserve & Gary Clark Jr.
Woodford Reserve – A Taste Like No Other
Woodford Reserve can boast of one of the most well-rounded, full-bodied, and balanced flavors in the bourbon world. This makes it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser and mirrors the robust blues tunes of Gary Clark Jr. in spirit and substance.
Gary Clark Jr. – The Future of Blues
A multi-instrumentalist and singer who effortlessly blends blues, rock, and soul, Gary Clark Jr. is the forward face of contemporary blues. Just like the well-balanced Woodford Reserve, he’s a guaranteed charmer at the festival.
Bourbon-Band Pairing #4: Maker’s Mark & Tedeschi Trucks Band
Maker’s Mark – Smooth Bourbon for Smooth Nights
Maker’s Mark is a soft, sweet bourbon, exceptional to savor while immersing yourself in a harmony-soaked adventure. It’s simple yet sophisticated, which resonates well with the tunes from Tedeschi Trucks Band.
Tedeschi Trucks Band – Harmony in Diversity
The Tedeschi Trucks Band, known for its blend of blues and soul, creates an atmosphere of unity. This band is all about distinct individual talents coming together to create a harmonious sound, much like the diverse elements coming together in each bottle of Maker’s Mark.
Bourbon-Band Pairing #5: Four Roses & Shemekia Copeland
Four Roses – A Celebration in a Glass
Four Roses bourbon, with its rich undertones and strong finish, is a fabulous dram to go with the power-packed performance by Shemekia Copeland. Every sip is a celebration, just like every note from Shemekia’s golden vocals.
Shemekia Copeland – The Powerhouse of Blues
With an irresistible energy and raw power, Copeland is a force to be reckoned with. Her passionate and resonant vocals paired with the bold expression of Four Roses make for an unforgettable combination.
Conclusion
Whether you’re a bourbon connoisseur, an ardent blues lover, or someone who appreciates good company and great vibes, Bourbon and Beyond 2023 offers an experience like no other. With a glass of bourbon in hand and the magnetic allure of bluesy tunes enveloping you, you’re bound to have the time of your life. So get ready to soak in the Southern charm!
