Bourbon Guides

National Bourbon Day Deserves Something Better Than Your Bottom Shelf

There are national days for everything—National Donut Day, National Pet Your Dog Day (real one), and even National Clean Your Fridge Day (we’re ignoring that one). But National Bourbon Day? That’s a holiday we actually want to celebrate.

Every June 14th, we honor America’s native spirit the best way we know how: by cracking open a bottle that matters—whether that’s your favorite everyday sipper or a unicorn bottle you’ve been saving for just the right moment. At The Bourbon Concierge, we’re here to make sure you have both. So pour a glass, light a cigar (if that’s your thing), and let’s talk history, hits, and how to make this Bourbon Day the best one yet.

Why Is Bourbon Day Celebrated on June 14?

Glad you asked. Bourbon has been around for centuries, but it wasn’t until June 14, 1789, that the Rev. Elijah Craig—a Baptist minister with a flair for distilling—allegedly poured the first batch of what would become America’s signature spirit. Was he the first? Maybe. Does it make a great story? Absolutely. (History, after all, is best served neat.)

Fast forward to 1964, when the U.S. Congress officially declared bourbon “a distinctive product of the United States.” That means if it ain’t made here, it ain’t bourbon. It also means this uniquely American spirit—aged in new charred oak barrels and made with at least 51% corn—deserves a national toast. And when it comes to icons worth toasting, few rise to the occasion quite like Buffalo Trace.

From Tradition to Titans: The Rise of Buffalo Trace

You can’t talk about bourbon—especially on National Bourbon Day—without tipping your hat to Buffalo Trace. As one of the most awarded distilleries in the world and home to some of the most beloved names in whiskey, this Kentucky icon has been doing things the right way for over two centuries.

Originally founded as the Old Fire Copper Distillery (O.F.C.) in the late 1700s, Buffalo Trace survived Prohibition by producing medicinal whiskey (we approve), and eventually became the backbone of some of the most legendary brands in the game. Today, the distillery produces E.H. Taylor, W.L. Weller, George T. Stagg, Pappy Van Winkle, and of course, the humble hero that bears the company’s name: Buffalo Trace Bourbon.

So, what makes Buffalo Trace so iconic?

It’s the perfect trifecta: history, consistency, and an uncanny ability to produce bottles that make both newbies and collectors nod in approval.

And nowhere is that more obvious than in the Buffalo Trace Antique Collection—the once-a-year release that sends bourbon fans into a frenzy and showcases the distillery’s most exceptional expressions. A few standouts:

George T. Stagg – Uncut, unfiltered, and legendary for its intensity. Deep, dark, and not for the faint of heart.
William Larue Weller – A wheated masterpiece with warm caramel, spice, and that signature long, velvety finish.
Thomas H. Handy Sazerac Rye – A powerhouse rye that delivers bold citrus and baking spice in a high-proof package.

So National Bourbon Day isn’t just a reason to drink (though, fair). It’s a celebration of American ingenuity, tradition, and the unmatched art of turning grain, time, and wood into something unforgettable.

Approachable Bourbons to Celebrate Right Now

Let’s start with the good stuff that doesn’t require a collector’s vault or a special occasion—just a love for a well-made pour. These bottles are perfect for a first-time Bourbon Day toast or restocking your bar cart with something tried-and-true.

Eagle Rare 10 Year

Smooth, well-aged, and complex enough to sip but affordable enough to share—especially in this party-sized bottle. It’s one of our go-to recommendations for bourbon beginners and longtime fans alike.

Blanton’s Single Barrel Bourbon

You know the one—with the racehorse topper. The 375mL format makes it ideal for gifting or introducing a friend to the single-barrel legend that started it all. Expect honey, spice, and a finish that lingers.

Three Crosses Old Red Fez Bourbon

Made in Virginia and beloved by bartenders who like their whiskey smooth but not boring. Red Fez is easygoing in cocktails but flavorful enough to enjoy neat. A little hometown hero that punches above its proof.

Rare Bottles for the Collector (Or the Curious)

Alright, now let’s talk about the showstoppers—the bottles that whisper you deserve this every time you walk by the shelf. Whether you’re treating yourself or hunting something special for your collection, these are our top National Bourbon Day picks.

Blue Run “Chosen” – The Bourbon Concierge & T8KE Private Selection

This isn’t just rare—it’s personal. Our team hand-selected this barrel for its bold, creamy body and warm finish. Expect baking spice, orchard fruit, and that oh-so-luxurious viscosity that tells you you’ve found something worth lingering over.

Booker’s 2025-01 “Barry’s Batch”

Uncut and unfiltered, this expression brings classic Booker’s heat with a softened edge. Named after longtime Beam employee Barry Youn, it’s everything we love about this high-proof line: strong, proud, and endlessly sip-worthy.

Penelope Rio

Finished in both Amburana and honey casks, this one practically sings in the glass. Brazilian wood gives it a cinnamon-roll warmth, while the honey adds a gentle sweetness. You’re not imagining it—it really is that good.

Blood Oath Pact 10

Think rich oak, dark cherry, leather, and spice in a layered blend that feels like bourbon dressed for a black-tie affair. A beautiful bottle with a story to match—it’s perfect for marking the day.

Old Forester 1924

Age-stated at 10 years, this bottle pays tribute to the Prohibition-era spirit that kept the Old Forester name alive. Full-bodied and elegant, it’s a walk through bourbon history with a distinctly modern finish.

Three Crosses 10-42 End of Watch

A powerful tribute to service and sacrifice, this limited release brings depth, dignity, and craftsmanship to every pour. It’s a bottle that asks you to pause—and appreciate.

For the Unicorn Hunters: One-of-a-Kind, One-in-Stock

These don’t last long. They don’t restock. And they certainly don’t collect dust on our shelves. If you’re reading this and one’s still available, take it as a sign from the bourbon gods.

Michter's 20 Year (2021 & 2022 vintages) – Velvet-rich and legendary.
Old Rip Van Winkle 25-Year Decanter – A glass-encased icon with mythic status.
Michter’s Celebration Sour Mash 2022 – Batch 4 – Elegance bottled.
Colonel E.H. Taylor Cured Oak – The barrel speaks here, and it speaks volumes.
Buffalo Trace OFC 2005 – History in liquid form, bottled in crystal and luxury.
William Heavenhill 15 Year (4th Edition) – We have two cask strengths (144.6 and 135.6) if you’re feeling indecisive... or decadent.

These bottles are here for the collectors, the enthusiasts, and the celebrants who know that National Bourbon Day isn’t just a gimmick—it’s a moment.

Drink of the Day: The 1964 Old Fashioned

In honor of the year bourbon was officially recognized as America’s spirit, we’re raising a glass to our favorite riff on a classic.

1964 Old Fashioned – The Bourbon Concierge Signature

Ingredients:

2 oz Michter’s Barrel Strength Rye
1 tsp maple syrup
2 dashes Fee Brothers Black Walnut Bitters

Instructions:

Build in a rocks glass over a large cube.
Stir gently until chilled.
Garnish with expressed lemon and orange peels.
Optional: Grate fresh nutmeg or cinnamon over the top for a warm, aromatic finish.

At The Bourbon Concierge, we love swapping the expected bourbon in an Old Fashioned for a bold, expressive rye. The Michter’s Barrel Strength brings rich spice and complexity, while the maple and walnut bitters give the drink a warm, toasty edge. It’s smooth, serious, and just a little indulgent—like every great Bourbon Day pour should be.

Happy National Bourbon Day!

This isn’t just about a drink—it’s about a tradition. A celebration of craftsmanship. A reason to slow down and raise a glass to the past, present, and future of bourbon. Whether you’re discovering a new favorite or pulling the cork on something once-in-a-lifetime, Bourbon Day is your invitation to savor something meaningful.

So call up your whiskey friends. Make our 1964 Old Fashioned. Toast to Elijah Craig and everyone who came after. And if you’re still looking for the perfect bottle? We’ve got one with your name on it.

Happy National Bourbon Day from all of us at The Bourbon Concierge.

Preview photo by Diego Henao