Bourbon Legends:

Tapping into the Trend of Brown Spirits on the Rise

by Fanny Slater

Whether the dapper Don Draper turned the world’s focus back onto Old Fashioneds, or folks devoted to the rich, oaky libation are simply raising their voices, bourbon has quietly crept up as the new “it” beverage. It’s always been part of American culture, of course, but specifically—within the last decade—we’ve seen a noticeable rise in trendy drinkeries who purposefully place the sultry spirit front and center. Just as craft beer taprooms, cocktail lounges, and wineries have continued to sprout up around the country, bourbon bars are now a category all their own, and every generation (and gender) is invited to the party. That’s right—bourbon drinking isn’t just a men’s club activity anymore. There’s even an entire organization dedicated entirely to women who are passionate about the product.

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Also dubbed “the American whiskey,” the distilled drink has origins going back to the 18th century (supposedly conceived when Elijah Craig aged already-popular corn whiskey in a charred oak barrel), so it’s no newfangled concept. The smoky sipper has always been on deck at bars, but mainly for mingling with soda. Hardcore enthusiasts wouldn’t dare water down their beloved Blanton’s with anything other than a single cube of ice. But whether you’re a beginner in the land of bourbon or an aficionado with your own robust collection on display at home, you won’t have a hard time finding plenty of hubs to enjoy (and educate yourself on) the drink.

This explosion of interest has led to everything from creating bourbon programs in the hospitality industry and enhanced lists at restaurants to neighborhood hangouts specializing entirely in the spirit.

All this booze talk making you wonder how soon until happy hour? Here are a few East Coast bourbon-centric hot spots that will quench your thirst when the time is right.

Attached to the elegant DeSoto hotel in Savannah, GA, is Edgar’s Proof & Provision. This modern drinkery marries thoughtful barrel-aged cocktails with Southern comfort food. Wash down homemade andouille sausage hushpuppies with a hearty pour of the private label “Edgar’s Truth” bourbon on EP&P’s front porch—the best people-watching on Liberty Street.

It’s all in the name at Bourbon and Bubbles in Charleston, SC, the luxury space where shared plates are coupled with a premier array of Champagne and hand-crafted cocktails. On the less ritzy end of the spectrum, the cozy neighborhood Paddock and Whisky on James Island prides itself on giving its patrons “the stories behind the barrels” from the picks on their curated list.

In Chattanooga, TN, indulge in an unforgettable indoor rooftop experience at the Whiskey Thief atop the Edwin Hotel, where an aerial view of the city pairs perfectly with the extensive bourbon selection poured into vintagestyle glassware. Belly up to the bustling bar (and an upscale burger) at Urban Stack and down creative concoctions like the High Tea, a citrusy spiked fusion of mint and orange.

There’s no shortage of spots to imbibe in Florida, and these are the ones where we suggest you pull up a stool. With major culinary accolades (like nods from James Beard and Bon Appetit), Miami Beach’s Yardbird is known for heady bourbon cocktails and dynamic farmfresh Southern dishes. In St. Petersburg, pop into Urban Stillhouse, where guests can expect weekly bourbon-inspired rotating specials and seasonal menu items showcased on the restaurant’s wood-fired grill.

Cooter Brown’s is a can’t-miss in Rehoboth Beach, DE, where familiar Southern fare gets a contemporary twist, and the bourbon and whiskey lineup is almost 200 bottles deep.

Bottoms up!