Top 10 Bourbon-and-Food Pairings to Elevate Your Next Dinner Party

1. Buffalo Trace and BBQ Ribs

Buffalo Trace, with its rich caramel and vanilla notes, pairs perfectly with the smoky, savory flavors of BBQ ribs. The sweetness of the bourbon complements the tangy BBQ sauce, creating a harmonious balance that will leave your taste buds dancing.

Why It Works

The caramel and vanilla undertones in Buffalo Trace enhance the smoky and savory flavors of BBQ ribs. The bourbon's sweetness cuts through the tanginess of the BBQ sauce, making each bite and sip a delightful experience.

How to Serve

  • Serve the BBQ ribs hot off the grill.
  • Pour Buffalo Trace neat or over a single large ice cube.
  • Enjoy the pairing with a side of coleslaw or cornbread for an added Southern touch.
This pairing is a match made in culinary heaven, perfect for impressing guests at your next dinner party.

2. Maker's Mark and Dark Chocolate

bourbon and dark chocolate pairing

When it comes to pairing Maker's Mark with dark chocolate, you're in for a delightful treat. The rich, smooth notes of Maker's Mark bourbon complement the deep, bittersweet flavors of dark chocolate, creating a harmonious balance of sweetness and complexity. Whether you're indulging in a piece of dark chocolate on its own or incorporating it into a dessert, this pairing is sure to impress your taste buds. For a decadent experience, try pairing Maker's Mark with a dark chocolate mousse or a flourless chocolate cake. The combination of bourbon and dark chocolate is a match made in flavor heaven, perfect for ending a meal on a high note.

3. Woodford Reserve and Grilled Steak

bourbon and grilled steak dinner party

When it comes to pairing bourbon with food, Woodford Reserve and grilled steak is a match made in heaven. The rich, complex flavors of Woodford Reserve align well with the charred, savory, and smoky notes of grilled meats. Plus, the liquor's flavors are robust enough to stand up to the hearty taste of a perfectly cooked steak.

Why It Works

Woodford Reserve's deep caramel and vanilla notes complement the umami flavors of grilled steak. The bourbon's slight spiciness also adds an extra layer of complexity to the meal.

How to Serve

  • Grill your steak to your preferred level of doneness.
  • Let the steak rest for a few minutes before serving.
  • Pour a glass of Woodford Reserve neat or with a single ice cube.

Pro Tip

For an elevated experience, consider marinating your steak in a mixture of Woodford Reserve, garlic, and herbs before grilling. This will infuse the meat with even more flavor, making each bite a true delight.

A well-paired bourbon and steak can turn a simple dinner into a gourmet experience. Enjoy the symphony of flavors and the satisfaction of a perfectly matched meal.

4. Knob Creek and Smoked Salmon

bourbon and smoked salmon dinner party

Why It Works

Knob Creek's robust, full-bodied flavor profile pairs exceptionally well with the rich, oily texture of smoked salmon. The bourbon's bold notes of oak and caramel cut through the smokiness, creating a harmonious balance.

Tasting Notes

  • Knob Creek: Oak, caramel, vanilla, and a hint of spice.
  • Smoked Salmon: Rich, oily, smoky, and slightly salty.

Serving Suggestions

  1. Serve Knob Creek neat or with a splash of water to open up its flavors.
  2. Pair with thinly sliced smoked salmon on a toasted baguette with a dollop of crème fraîche.
  3. Garnish with fresh dill and a squeeze of lemon for an added zest.
The combination of Knob Creek and smoked salmon is a match made in culinary heaven, perfect for impressing guests at your next dinner party.

5. Four Roses and Apple Pie

bourbon and apple pie on a dinner table

When it comes to pairing bourbon with dessert, Four Roses and apple pie is a match made in heaven. The rich, caramel notes of Four Roses bourbon perfectly complement the sweet and tart flavors of a classic apple pie. This pairing is sure to impress your guests and leave them wanting more.

Why It Works

The combination of the bourbon's spicy undertones and the pie's cinnamon and nutmeg creates a harmonious blend of flavors. It's all about discovering the bourbon sweet spot: a guide to identification. Explore nosing, tasting notes, bourbon pairings with food like steak, cheese, charcuterie, and desserts.

How to Serve

  • Serve the apple pie warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
  • Pour a glass of Four Roses bourbon neat or on the rocks.
  • Enjoy the delightful contrast between the warm pie and the smooth, cool bourbon.
This pairing is a surefire way to elevate your dinner party and make it unforgettable.

6. Bulleit Bourbon and Spicy Chili

Bulleit Bourbon bottle with a bowl of spicy chili on a rustic wooden table

When it comes to pairing bourbon with food, Bulleit Bourbon and spicy chili is a match made in heaven. The high rye content in Bulleit gives it a bold, spicy kick that complements the heat of the chili perfectly.

Why It Works

The spiciness of Bulleit Bourbon enhances the flavors of the chili, creating a harmonious blend of heat and warmth. The bourbon's notes of oak, nutmeg, and caramel add depth to the chili, making each bite a new experience.

How to Serve

  • Serve the chili in a large bowl with a side of cornbread.
  • Pour Bulleit Bourbon over a large ice cube in a rocks glass.
  • Garnish with a slice of lime or a sprig of cilantro for an extra touch of freshness.
For an extra kick, try adding a splash of Bulleit Bourbon directly into the chili while it's cooking. It will infuse the dish with even more flavor and make your dinner party guests rave about your culinary skills.

Pro Tip

Pairing Bulleit Bourbon with spicy chili is not just about the flavors; it's about the experience. The boldness of the bourbon and the heat of the chili create a sensory adventure that will leave your guests talking long after the meal is over.

7. Elijah Craig and Roasted Nuts

bourbon glass with Elijah Craig bottle and roasted nuts on a dinner table

When it comes to exploring the captivating aromas of top bourbons with food pairings, Elijah Craig and roasted nuts make a delightful duo. The nutty flavors of roasted almonds, cashews, and pecans perfectly complement the rich, caramel notes of Elijah Craig bourbon.

Why It Works

The combination of Elijah Craig's bold, spicy profile with the savory, slightly sweet taste of roasted nuts creates a harmonious balance that enhances the overall flavor experience.

How to Serve

  • Serve Elijah Craig neat or on the rocks.
  • Offer a variety of roasted nuts in small bowls.
  • Encourage guests to take a sip of bourbon followed by a bite of nuts to fully appreciate the pairing.
This pairing is perfect for those who enjoy the allure of bourbon's aromas highlighted in culinary adventures.

Pro Tip

For an extra touch, lightly sprinkle the nuts with sea salt or a hint of smoked paprika to elevate the flavors even more.

8. Wild Turkey and Fried Chicken

bourbon and fried chicken dinner party

When it comes to classic Southern pairings, Wild Turkey and fried chicken is a match made in heaven. The bold, spicy notes of Wild Turkey bourbon perfectly complement the crispy, savory goodness of fried chicken. This pairing is sure to be a hit at any dinner party, bringing a touch of Southern charm to your table.

Why It Works

The high proof of Wild Turkey cuts through the richness of the fried chicken, creating a balanced and enjoyable experience. The bourbon's caramel and vanilla notes enhance the flavors of the chicken, making each bite more delicious than the last.

How to Serve

For the best experience, serve Wild Turkey neat or on the rocks alongside a plate of freshly fried chicken. Add a side of coleslaw and some buttermilk biscuits to complete the meal. Don't forget to have plenty of napkins on hand—this is one pairing that's delightfully messy!

This bourbon pairing dinner with Dan Garrison is a must-try for anyone looking to elevate their next dinner party. Come early, as our Southern fried chicken dinner is first-come, first-served!

9. Blanton's and Blue Cheese

bourbon and blue cheese pairing at a dinner party

Why It Works

Blanton's bourbon, with its rich and complex flavor profile, pairs exceptionally well with the bold and tangy taste of blue cheese. The sweetness of the bourbon balances the saltiness of the cheese, creating a harmonious blend that is sure to impress your guests.

Tasting Notes

When you take a sip of Blanton's, you'll notice hints of caramel, vanilla, and oak. These flavors complement the creamy and pungent characteristics of blue cheese, making each bite and sip a delightful experience.

Serving Suggestions

  • Serve Blanton's bourbon neat or on the rocks to fully appreciate its nuanced flavors.
  • Pair with a variety of blue cheeses, such as Roquefort, Gorgonzola, or Stilton, to explore different flavor combinations.
  • Add some crackers and fresh fruit to your cheese platter for added texture and taste.
For a truly memorable bourbon tasting: explore the flavors of the south with bbq, chocolate, and cheese pairings. Indulge in rich, savory, and sweet combinations for a delightful experience.

10. Angel's Envy and Caramelized Pears

bourbon glass with caramelized pears on a dinner table

Angel's Envy, with its rich and complex flavor profile, pairs exquisitely with the sweet and slightly tart notes of caramelized pears. The bourbon's subtle hints of vanilla and toasted oak complement the caramelization process, creating a harmonious blend of flavors.

Why It Works

The sweet caramel and vanilla notes in Angel's Envy enhance the natural sweetness of the pears, while the oak undertones add a layer of depth to the pairing. This combination is perfect for those who enjoy a sophisticated dessert with their bourbon.

How to Serve

  • Slice the pears thinly and sauté them in butter and brown sugar until they are golden and caramelized.
  • Serve the pears warm, drizzled with the caramel sauce from the pan.
  • Pour a glass of Angel's Envy and enjoy the pairing as a delightful end to your dinner party.
This pairing is a match made in heaven, offering a delightful balance of sweet and savory flavors that will leave your guests wanting more.

Indulge in the exquisite pairing of Angel's Envy and caramelized pears, a match made in heaven for any bourbon enthusiast. Elevate your tasting experience and discover more unique pairings by joining our exclusive clubs. Don't miss out on our monthly subscriptions and special gift plans. Visit our website to explore all the options and place your order today!