The American love affair with bourbon is at all-time high. So much so that in September 2007, The United States Senate passed a resolution designating September National Bourbon Heritage Month. The goal of this resolution was to celebrate “America’s Native Spirit” a.k.a. bourbon, and to remember how bourbon has impacted and influenced the American way of life for hundreds of years. It is meant to be a reflection of that oh so delicious brown spirit we all know and love. If you would like to read the actual bill, the full text can be found here.
Now that we know a little about its history, what does National Heritage Bourbon Month mean to you? It has become commonplace to hear about a new release of an ultra-rare, or limited-edition bourbon and see people camped out for days, just to be first in line for a chance to purchase one of these amazing, seemingly mystical bottles. What is so special about bourbon that causes people to lose their minds? Is it the flavor profile? Is it bragging rights so we can show off that amazing bottle to our friends? Is it because it reminds us of a bygone era that no longer exists? The answer of course is yes, plus much, much more.
For me, it is simple. Yes, I love the flavor profile and I have been known to post a pic or two on social media to antagonize my friends…. I mean share my find. However, what pushes me from a casual bourbon drinker to a crazed fanatic is the history. Finding a rare, aged bourbon allows me to take a small step back in time. Partaking in this complex, warm and inviting liquid takes me back to a time when life was simpler. A time when our forefathers and foremothers struggled just to survive. The fact that bourbon is a product of the land, and in many ways, is still made in the same traditions that help build this great country, is what National Bourbon Heritage Month means to me.
