Top 10 Bourbon-and-Food Pairings You Need to Try This Season

1. Buffalo Trace and BBQ Ribs

Buffalo Trace and BBQ ribs are a match made in heaven. The rich, smoky flavor of BBQ ribs perfectly complements the smooth, caramel notes of Buffalo Trace bourbon. This pairing is a must-try for any BBQ lover.

When you take a bite of those tender, juicy ribs and follow it with a sip of Buffalo Trace, you'll experience a flavor explosion. The bourbon's sweetness balances the savory, smoky taste of the ribs, creating a harmonious blend that will leave your taste buds dancing.

• The smoky flavor of BBQ ribs pairs well with the caramel notes of Buffalo Trace.
• The bourbon's sweetness balances the savory taste of the ribs.
• This pairing is perfect for any BBQ lover.

For the ultimate experience, try pairing Buffalo Trace with beef ribs, brisket, or sweet BBQ pork ribs. The combination of flavors will make your next BBQ unforgettable.

2. Maker's Mark and Dark Chocolate

When it comes to pairing bourbon with food, Maker's Mark and dark chocolate is a match made in heaven. The smooth, sweet notes of Maker's Mark perfectly complement the rich, slightly bitter taste of dark chocolate.

Imagine taking a sip of Maker's Mark, letting the caramel and vanilla flavors dance on your tongue, and then biting into a piece of dark chocolate. The combination is simply divine.

Why It Works

• Maker's Mark has a smooth and sweet profile that balances the bitterness of dark chocolate.
• The caramel and vanilla notes in the bourbon enhance the chocolate's richness.
• Both the bourbon and the chocolate have complex flavors that play well together.

How to Enjoy

1. Pour a 1.25-ounce serving of Maker's Mark.
2. Pair it with a piece of high-quality dark chocolate.
3. Take a sip of the bourbon, savor the flavors, then take a bite of the chocolate.
4. Repeat and enjoy the symphony of tastes.

This pairing is perfect for a cozy night in or a special occasion. It's a simple yet luxurious treat that anyone can enjoy.

Whether you're a bourbon newbie or a seasoned aficionado, this pairing is sure to impress. So next time you're looking for a delicious and sophisticated treat, reach for some Maker's Mark and dark chocolate. You won't be disappointed.

3. Woodford Reserve and Smoked Salmon

Pairing Woodford Reserve with smoked salmon is like a match made in heaven. The rich, smoky flavors of the salmon perfectly complement the smooth, caramel notes of the bourbon.

Why It Works

The smokiness of the salmon brings out the oak and vanilla flavors in the Woodford Reserve. It's a combination that will make your taste buds dance.

How to Serve

• Chill the salmon: Make sure your smoked salmon is chilled but not frozen.
• Pour the bourbon: Serve Woodford Reserve neat or with a single ice cube to open up the flavors.
• Enjoy together: Take a bite of the salmon, then a sip of the bourbon. Repeat and enjoy the flavor explosion.

This pairing is perfect for a fancy dinner or just a cozy night in. It's simple yet sophisticated, making it a go-to choice for any occasion.

4. Knob Creek and Grilled Steak

When it comes to pairing bourbon with food, Knob Creek and grilled steak is a match made in heaven. The bold, smoky flavors of the steak perfectly complement the rich, full-bodied taste of Knob Creek.

Why It Works

The high proof of Knob Creek cuts through the fattiness of the steak, creating a balanced and enjoyable experience. The caramel and vanilla notes in the bourbon enhance the savory flavors of the meat.

How to Enjoy

1. Grill your steak to your preferred doneness.
2. Pour a glass of Knob Creek, neat or with a splash of water.
3. Take a sip of the bourbon, then a bite of the steak. Repeat and enjoy!

For the best experience, choose a well-marbled cut of steak like ribeye or sirloin. The fat content will pair beautifully with the bourbon's robust flavor.

Pro Tip

Let the steak rest for a few minutes after grilling. This allows the juices to redistribute, making each bite more flavorful and juicy.

5. Four Roses and Apple Pie

When it comes to pairing bourbon with desserts, Four Roses and apple pie is a match made in heaven. The smooth, slightly spicy notes of Four Roses bourbon perfectly complement the sweet and tart flavors of a classic apple pie.

Imagine taking a bite of warm apple pie, with its flaky crust and gooey filling, and then sipping on a glass of Four Roses. The bourbon's rich flavors enhance the pie's sweetness, creating a delightful balance.

This pairing is perfect for any occasion, whether you're celebrating a special event or just enjoying a cozy night in. It's a great way to elevate your dessert game and impress your guests.

For those looking to improve their Derby Day celebrations, consider adding this pairing to your menu. From mint juleps to hot browns, we're breaking down how to improve your Derby Day celebrations with the perfect bourbon pairings.

So, next time you're in the mood for something sweet, reach for a slice of apple pie and a glass of Four Roses. You won't be disappointed!

7. Bulleit Bourbon and Spicy Chili

When it comes to pairing bourbon with food, Bulleit Bourbon and spicy chili is a match made in heaven. The bold and spicy flavors of Bulleit Bourbon perfectly complement the heat and richness of a well-made chili.

Why It Works

Bulleit Bourbon's high rye content gives it a unique spiciness that pairs well with the robust flavors of chili. The whiskey's bold and spicy flavors enhance the heat of the chili, creating a harmonious balance that is sure to please your taste buds.

How to Enjoy

To get the most out of this pairing, try serving your chili with a side of cornbread and a glass of Bulleit Bourbon on the rocks. The sweetness of the cornbread will help to balance out the spiciness of the chili and the bourbon, creating a well-rounded and satisfying meal.

Pro Tip

For an extra kick, try adding a splash of Bulleit Bourbon to your chili while it's cooking. The bourbon will add a depth of flavor that will take your chili to the next level.

Bulleit Bourbon pairs well with a variety of foods, including charcuterie, smoked meats, and aged cheeses. The whiskey's bold and spicy flavors complement the heat and richness of a well-made chili, making it the perfect choice for this pairing.

8. Wild Turkey and Fried Chicken

When it comes to comfort food, nothing beats fried chicken. Pair it with Wild Turkey bourbon, and you have a match made in heaven. The bold flavors of Wild Turkey complement the crispy, juicy goodness of fried chicken perfectly.

Why It Works

• The spicy notes in Wild Turkey enhance the savory taste of the fried chicken.
• The bourbon's caramel undertones add a sweet contrast to the salty, crunchy coating.
• Both the drink and the dish have a rich, satisfying texture that makes each bite and sip a delight.

How to Enjoy

1. Serve the fried chicken hot and fresh out of the fryer.
2. Pour a glass of Wild Turkey over a large ice cube to chill it slightly without diluting the flavor.
3. Take a bite of the chicken, followed by a sip of the bourbon. Repeat and enjoy!

For the ultimate experience, try adding a dash of hot sauce to your fried chicken. The heat will bring out even more of the bourbon's complex flavors.

9. Blanton's and Blue Cheese

Blanton's Bourbon and blue cheese make an unexpected but delightful pair. The rich, creamy texture of blue cheese complements the bourbon's complexity, creating a taste sensation that's hard to beat.

Why It Works

The bold flavors of Blanton's Bourbon stand up well to the strong, tangy taste of blue cheese. Together, they create a balanced and harmonious experience that will leave your taste buds dancing.

How to Enjoy

• Serve Blanton's Bourbon neat or on the rocks.
• Pair with a variety of blue cheeses, such as Roquefort or Gorgonzola.
• Add some crackers or bread to complete the experience.

For a truly memorable pairing, try this combination at your next gathering. Your guests will be impressed by the unique and delicious flavors.

10. Angel's Envy and Caramelized Nuts

Angel's Envy is a bourbon that stands out with its rich, smooth flavor. When you pair it with caramelized nuts, you get a match made in heaven. The sweetness of the nuts brings out the vanilla and oak notes in the bourbon.

Firstly, consider pairing Angel's Envy with a side of smoked almonds or pecans. The smoky flavor of the nuts complements the whiskey perfectly.

Why This Pairing Works

• The caramelized nuts add a sweet crunch that balances the bourbon's smoothness.
• The smoky flavor of the nuts enhances the oak notes in Angel's Envy.
• This pairing is perfect for a cozy evening by the fire.

How to Serve

1. Pour a glass of Angel's Envy.
2. Serve with a bowl of caramelized nuts.
3. Enjoy the flavors as they blend together.

This pairing is a simple yet elegant way to enjoy bourbon. The combination of sweet and smoky flavors will leave you wanting more.

Angel's Envy pairs perfectly with caramelized nuts, creating a delightful taste experience. Imagine the smooth bourbon mingling with the sweet crunch of the nuts. It's a match made in heaven! Want to try it for yourself? Visit our website and explore our monthly bourbon subscriptions. Don't miss out on this unique flavor combination!