Louisville Homes & Gardens - September 2021 by TOPS Magazine

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september 2021 // Priceless

Who’s Who // What’s New // What To Do

EXCLUSIVE FEATURE

Louisville’s Southern Living IDEA HOUSE

september 2021

Sneak Peek at Norton Commons

HOMEARAMA HOME TOUR Vol. 5 • No. 9

BONUS Our Bourbon Heritage PLUS Home Buying Professionals

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the art theof artorganization of organization

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Features Features SEPTEMBER 2021 at Home

Riverbend: Southern Living’s “Idea House”

Homearama

Step on It: What’s Afoot in Rug Trends

Lyric at Norton Commons Offers ‘Best of Both Worlds’

Louisville Furniture Values Customer Service, Immediate Availability

realtors

Special Advertising Section: The Real Deal Realtors

12 bourbon

gardens

Welcome Home: Fall Front Porch Inspiration

The History of Our Bourbon Heritage

Fall Flowers: A to Z

Bourbon Heritage Month

2232 Frankfort Ave • Louisville, KY 40206 • (502) 618-1633 • european-splendor.com 4 louisville homes & gardens | September 2021

 o H 

september 2021 // Priceless TOPS

Keith Yarber Publisher kyarber@topsmarketing.com

VP, Sales tj@topslouisville.com

Morgan Hancock Senior Advertising Account Executive morgan@topslouisville.com

Haley Bottorff CONTRIBUTORS Photography: Dick Arnspiger, Laurey Glenn (Southern Living), Tim Furlong Jr. Writers: Dawn Anderson, Taylor Riley TOP Marketing Group

Account Executive haleyb@topslouisville.com

Rocko Jerome Brand Ambassador and Staff Writer rocko@topslouisville.com

Sneak Peek at Norton Commons

HOMEARAMA HOME TOUR

Vol. 5 • No. 9

Vol 1 • No. 7

september 2021

tj white

EXCLUS IVE FEATUR E

Louisville’s Southern Living IDEA HOUSE

To Do

Editor-in-Chief and Senior Advertising Account Executive kathy@topslouisville.com

Who’s Who // What’s New // What

Kathy Thuerbach

n Heritage BONUS Our Bourbo als PLUS Home Buying Profession

JOseph Yarber

Digital Strategist joseph@topsmarketing.com

Malissa Aebersold Lead Graphic Designer malissa@topslouisville.com

Amanda Harper Graphic Designer amandah@topsmarketing.com

100 EXECUTIVE PARK, SUITE 101 • LOUISVILLE, KY 40207 (502) 780-7825 • TOPSLOUISVILLE.COM

The views and comments expressed by the authors are not always that of our editors or publishers. While every effort has been made to ensure th accuracy of the information in this publication, TOP Marketing Group accepts no responsibility or liability for any errors, omissions or resultant consequences, including any loss or damage arising from the reliance on information in this publication. All images contained in TOPS Louisville magazine are subject to the copyright of the artist or photographer as named, but not limited thereto. Reproduction of any part of this magazine without prior written permission is prohibited.

6 louisville homes & gardens | September 2021

Chad Howard VP, Digital Marketing chad@topsmarketing.com

Haley Norris Graphic Designer haley@topsmarketing.com

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SOUTHERN LIVING’S “IDEA HOUSE” Presented Locally by Liberty Financial

RIVERBEND Every year, the revered Southern Living magazine creates and presents an "Idea House" somewhere in America. For 2021, Kentucky was chosen for the first time as their build site. The new fifty acre community called the Breakers at Prospect is the host for this achievement in excellence, the fruit of the labor of a team of experts who met the challenge and brought a vision to reality.

It's called Riverbend. It's not just a house. IT'S AN EXPERIENCE. BY ROCKO JEROME PHOTOS BY LAUREY GLENN / SOUTHERN LIVING

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louisville homes & gardens | September 2021 11

at home LOOKING AT THE HOUSE FROM ANY ANGLE, you wouldn't be inclined to think that this gorgeous, timeless place could be brand new. Relaxed and welcoming in equal parts, sophisticated but devoid of pretension, Riverbend just feels like home. It pulls to you, something inside that longs for comfort and security. You can feel your brain become awash in dopamine just by standing before it. "You might not know exactly why, but you will feel the love here," says Jimmy King, co-owner of Artisan Signature Homes, the first-rate builder hand-picked for this monumental task, where a thousand little flourishes throughout lead to an almost subliminal feeling of easiness. "There's really something here for everyone. Looking around, you will see an abundance of wood trim. All of the interior paint was brush finished to achieve an old look and feel." Jimmy even added a personal piece - a vintage doorknob on the screen door at the front of the house, made of brass with a perfect patina, so that the first thing you touch going inside holds a historical spirit. "We stopped just short of trying to make that screen door creak," he quips.

Inside, no space feels like a showroom, but every inch looks and feels amazing. A thoughtful living space full of ideas, the attention to detail is something to behold. There are built-in antiques and new things, like state-of-the-art appliances that don't take away from the homiest kitchen built in this century. The rooms connect and flow well together, allowing freedom to move through the place, letting it wash over you. Interior Designer Sarah Bartholomew did fantastic work, creating a feel that is at once elegant and appropriately homey. A fantastic size and a cozy sensibility that maximizes sunlight and a beachy, Rhode Island feel

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Jimmy King and Jason Black, co-owners, Artisan Signature Homes PHOTO BY DICK ARNSPIGER

is palpable throughout, growing more and more relaxed towards the back of the house. There, you find that a breathtaking view of the river, flowing since time immemorial with no sign of stopping, is waiting for you. Josh Myers, a masterful Landscape Architect, worked real magic in the green environs here. A tall tree stands, complete with a completely handmade swing from the Southern Pine Swing Company. There's even a doghouse with siding and a cedar roof that any breed of Man's Best Friend would be privileged to call home. The photogenic view can be appreciated

from several delightful spots, including a living area around an outdoor fireplace to warm you up on chilly nights, a dining table, or the second floor balcony, perfect for a relaxing evening, just enjoying the sunset.

Not only does it feel as if beautiful memories could be made here at Riverbend, it somehow feels like they already have. Everything feels at once warm and familiar. "There's a wow moment at every turn," says Nicole Hendrick Santee, Brand Homes Director of Southern Living.

PHOTO BY TIM FURLONG JR.

TO TOUR THE SOUTHERN LIVING IDEA HOME: Tours are open to the public now through December 19, 2021. Tours will take place Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays from 10 am–4 pm, and on Sundays from 1 pm–4 pm.

FOR TICKETS: Visit www.ideahouseky.com to purchase tickets. A portion of the proceeds from ticket sales goes to The LEE Initiative, the Louisville-based nonprofit co-founded by Chef Edward Lee and Lindsey Ofcacek, and Gilda's Club Kentuckiana, a cancer support community providing more than 180 free monthly program offerings. PHOTO BY DICK ARNSPIGER

louisville homes & gardens | September 2021 13

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"OUR INTENT IS

— JASON BLACK

that visitors will want to go back through even after seeing everything. It's so easy to envision that you live here, to engulf yourself in the Bluegrass." It's no secret that the real estate market here is booming as people from everywhere have begun to understand what Kentucky residents have known all along. "This location was approved with the site unseen," says Nicole. "We always endeavor to bring new ideas and a sense of travel with these homes, as well as creating variety. In seventeen years of creating these destination locations, this was the first that was done virtually. The team was carefully assembled, and everyone involved brought so much to the table."

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“There’s a focus on creating unique homes. I have no interest in making the same things over and over; I always want to strive towards innovation.”

It all began in Atlanta with architect C. Brandon Ingram. He's an expert and specialist in classical architectural design and southern homes. His insight was consistent throughout the project, and we are told that he noted that Riverbend is one of the first homes that, in actual practice, looks like what he drew. "It's common to make a lot of interpretations, but we were in constant communication, sometimes agonizing over inches, every step of the way," says Jason Black, co-owner of Artisan Signature Homes. For him, it's all been a labor of love. "I spent ten years grinding away in corporate America before I decided it just wasn't for me," he says. Almost 20 years and 300 houses later, his name has become synonymous with quality, dependable work in the housing industry.

Southern Living began its partnership with Jason and Jimmy fifteen years ago. "We share an appreciation of attention to detail," says Jason. He also exhibits a knack for being very deliberately selective, conscientious, and holding an eye towards the carefully curated. "There's a focus on creating unique homes. I have no interest in making the same things over and over; I always want to strive towards innovation."

Despite challenges acquiring materials throughout the project, the house was still completed only a single week behind schedule, thanks to incredibly hard work. Riverbend stands as a testament- to ingenuity, to teamwork, and to the lasting legacy of collaborative effort. 

louisville homes & gardens | September 2021 15

Krystal Jarrell Premiere Cleaning (502) 454-6243

LOUISVILLEPREMIERECLEANERS.COM In these days especially, the importance of cleanliness can’t be emphasized enough. Luckily, Krystal Jarrell and her team at Premiere Cleaning are expertly qualified to properly clean your home, office, restaurant, school, store or manufacturing company.. With 34 years in business, Premiere is a nonfranchise, locally owned company. They are trusted in this region by companies like the YMCA, JCPS, Merkley Kendrick Jewlers, Starbucks, and Walgreens. Premiere has received special ISSA certification for the Coronavirus. “Not only can we respond to the virus, we can help prevent it” says Krystal. Krystal brings a personal touch to her work. Her motto is, Your time is valuable, Our time is available. “I listen to my clients and truly get to know what they are seeking, whether I meet with them in their home or over the phone,” says Krystal. “I provide a sophisticated yet affordable approach, creating the perfect cleaning plan based on their wants and needs.”

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TAKE A SNEAK PEEK AT THIS YEAR’S HOMES

HOMEARAMA NORTON COMMONS • SEPTEMBER 11-26, 2021 HOURS

Monday-Friday: 5pm-8pm Saturdays: 10am-6pm Sundays: 1pm-6pm

MORE INFO

For more information about Homearama and Norton Commons, please visit us at homearama.com or nortoncommons.com

HOMEARAMA, the annual showcase of custom-built homes organized by the Building Industry Association of Greater Louisville (BIA), is returning to Norton Commons for the fourth time in the show’s history. The event will be held Sept. 11-26, and takes its landscape and architectural design inspiration from historic Old Louisville, but also features the latest trends in interior styles and smart home conveniences. COURTESY PHOTOS/RENDERINGS

TICKET COST General Admission: $10.00 Adults and 12 Years Old and UP

Children Under 12 are free with a paying adult. Ticket gate closes 1/2 hour prior to listed closing times.

01 e Old Fashion HOME HIGHLIGHTS

• Wraparound front porch with ceiling fans • Custom hideaway walk-in pantry with floating shelves and ceramic tile beverage refrigerator • Quartz countertops in the kitchen with waterfall edge accent and quartz cooktop hood • Starburst metallic tile on fireplace wall • Second-floor lo with built-in cabinetry • Built-in bunk beds in guest bedroom • Hardwood floors throughout the first floor, lo and upstairs hallway • Basement bar with an island, tile accents, custom cabinets and floating shelves • Banquet seating area with quartz countertops and built-ins • Spacious three-car garage

18 louisville homes & gardens | September 2021

4,580 sq. ft.

BUILDER

Dan Perkins Mason Construction and Development LLC (502) 241-6588 masonconstructionanddev.com

INTERIOR DESIGN

Tammy Randall, Sarah Wooten and Mallary O’Brien LL&A Interior Design (812) 282-6606 leslielewisdesign.com

4.5

CREATING LUXURIOUS LIVING SPACES FOR OVER 24 YEARS

02 e Lola

HOME HIGHLIGHTS

• Unique, Italiantestyle façade • Home faces beautiful greenspace • Gorgeous stainedglass window, lit at night by dedicated lighting feature • Hardwood throughout the house • Custom, Amish-built cabinetry • Built-in Monogram appliances • Ornate tile work in en-suite master bath

2,512 sq. ft.

3.5

BUILDER

Joe Kroll Joe Kroll Builder (502) 419-4325 joekrollbuilder.com

INTERIOR DESIGN Jennifer Burgin Jennifer Burgin Designs (502) 851-3402

502-836-7318 STEINBOCKINTERIORS.COM louisville homes & gardens | September 2021 19

03 Modern Magnolia HOME HIGHLIGHTS

• Master bedroom with a built-in coffee bar • Second floor balcony off of the master bedroom, perfect for a night outdoors • Beautiful quartz countertops throughout the home • A large basement family room with flexible functionality • Cozy fireplace nestled in a covered patio • Custom cabinets • GE Café appliances

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3,844 sq. ft.

BUILDER

Leo ieneman Jr. and Mike ieneman Leo ieneman & Sons LLC (502) 817-1319

INTERIOR DESIGN

Laura Canfield, Karista Hannah, Katie Karl and Tayler Reid Set the Stage Interior Design & Home Décor (502) 708-1497 setthestage.net

3.5

04 e Sherwood

HOME HIGHLIGHTS

3,442 sq. ft.

2.5

• Two-story front porch overlooking Peppermint BUILDER INTERIOR Park David Ramage • Luxurious primary suite DESIGN Ramage Company with views of Peppermint Amanda ramagecompany.com Park, an oversized Stubblefield Ramage Company shower and soaking ramagecompany.com tub, and a large walk-in closet with access to the laundry room • Partially finished basement • Custom kitchen with painted with media and workout rooms cabinets, inset doors, Bosch • Large second-floor lo with appliances and panel-ready access to the covered porch refrigeration • First-floor office with windows • Garage including a custom to the outdoor room storage system, electric car • Energy-efficient geothermal charging station and generator heat and air hookup • Home automation to include • Covered side porch with grilling surround sound and video nook and access to the living components room

louisville homes & gardens | September 2021 21

05 Nola

HOME HIGHLIGHTS • • • • • • • • • •

8-foot-tall front windows and shutters Full view glass door to patio Open floor plan with all custom finishes Large, covered patio with built-in grill, infrared heating, TV and sitting area Custom landscaping with white dogwood canopy tree Oversized master suite with outdoor porch, separate sitting room and laundry Geothermal heating and air Custom built-in desk in mudroom ree-car garage High-end, luxury laundry room

2,901 sq. ft.

BUILDER

Matt French and Wesley Williams Caliber Homes & Remodeling Inc. (502) 693-3138 caliberhomeslouisville.com

INTERIOR DESIGN

Wesley Williams Caliber Homes & Remodeling (502) 693-3138 caliberhomeslouisville.com

STAGING/FURNITURE Devona Shakespeare and Maria Leon-Johnson Caliber Homes & Remodeling devona@centuryliving.com

22 louisville homes & gardens | September 2021

3.5

104 Wooldridge Place, Pewee Valley, KY 40056

$2,000,000 6 Bedrooms 5 Full & 2 Half Baths

06 e Jenni

HOME HIGHLIGHTS

• Very open floor plan • Bosch appliances, including dual fuel range • Shelving in primary closet is ceilingheight • ree-car garage • ree large second floor bedrooms • Unique plaid pattern trim in primary bedroom • All marble flooring and shower in primary bath • Distributed audio • Arched area in upstairs hallway • Second floor lo

2,756 sq. ft.

BUILDER

Mark Simpson Simpson Builders (502) 523-3006 simpsonbuilders.com

DONNA’S

3.5

FEATURED LISTINGS Donna Gordon Willoughby Top Producer Semonin Realtors

INTERIOR DESIGN Bailey Pitts Bailey at Home (270) 314-7657 baileyathome.com

502-558-5637 dgordon@semonin.com www.donnagordon-willoughby.semonin.com louisville homes & gardens | September 2021 23

07 ParkView HOME HIGHLIGHTS

• Available side yard space for garden, pets, and/or additional landscaping • Upgraded appliance package with Bosch industrial style range; built in refrigerator with custom cabinet panels; under-counter microwave drawer • Black metal custom range hood with brass banding over kitchen range • Brick accent wall behind kitchen range • Custom all-plywood cabinets with so -close doors and drawers; kitchen wall cabinets to ceiling; glass in kitchen upper wall cabinet doors • Luxurious primary bath with dual vanities, free standing tub, tile shower with bench seat and hand-held shower head • Laundry across the hall from primary closet with custom cabinetry and sink • Each bedroom on second floor has a dedicated full bath and walk-in closet

24 louisville homes & gardens | September 2021

2,353 sq. ft.

3.5

BUILDER

David Landis Landis Homes LLC (502) 592-1760 landis-homes.com

INTERIOR DESIGN

Beth Hankins Worthington Design Group (502) 744-6098 worthingtondesigngroup.com

• Closets by Design closet system in primary closet and pantry • Large side porch visible from living room, dining room, kitchen, and primary bedroom with gas fireplace and stone chimney

08 MasterCra Homes HOME HIGHLIGHTS

• Two-story front porch overlooking Norton Commons’ Peppermint Park • Oversized, angled side porch with built-in gas fireplace • Traditional two-story home with increased functionality, convenience and comfort • First-floor owners’ suite with a spacious walkin closet and luxurious bathroom, complete with a separate shower and freestanding tub • Each bedroom is equipped with its own private sink and vanity

• Walk-in kitchen pantry for plenty of storage space • Spacious two-car garage • Geothermal heating and cooling, and an air filtration package • Energy-efficient aluminum-clad windows • An attached, twobedroom, two-bath apartment with a separate one-car garage • Separate covered porch and private balcony off apartment living space

4,035 sq. ft.

5.5

BUILDER

Dan Swigart Fine Home Builders DBA Built by MasterCra Homes LLC (502) 817-0534

INTERIOR DESIGN

Devona Shakespeare and Angela Cox Century Entertainment & Furnishings (502) 253-6922 centuryliving.com

louisville homes & gardens | September 2021 25

09 Haven HOME HIGHLIGHTS

• Strikingly tall windows and door evoking mid-1800s New Orleans • Two-story front porch with six columns • Hardwood throughout the first floor • Expansive kitchen with commercial-grade appli-ances and built-in coffeemaker • Horseshoe-shaped kitchen island with built-in booth seating and quartz countertops • Versatile indoor-outdoor living and dining area with cupola, French doors and fireplace • Two full master suites with private bathrooms and walk-in closets • Two laundry rooms, one on each floor • ree-car garage • Geothermal heating and air

26 louisville homes & gardens | September 2021

5,017 sq. ft.

BUILDER

Matt French and Wesley Williams Caliber Homes & Remodeling Inc. (502) 693-3138 caliberhomeslouisville.com

INTERIOR DESIGN Devona Shakespeare and Kiersten Trover Century Entertainment & Furnishings devona@centuryliving.com

3.5

LIVE IN IN LIVE

luxury

WITH WITH

OUR SERVICES SERVICES KITCHEN KITCHEN && BATHROOM BATHROOM CABINETRY CABINETRY COUNTERTOPS COUNTERTOPS HARDWARE HARDWARE FLOORING & BACKSPLASH TILE FLOORING & BACKSPLASH TILE

CORNERSTONEKB.COM CORNERSTONEKB.COM

502-890-9100 502-890-9100

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RUGS IN

interesting PLACES

With the rise of washable rugs – and the 21st century ease of finding a professional to clean traditional rugs – people are getting more adventurous with where they place their rugs. Some seriously stylish rugs are showing up in kitchens, bathrooms, playrooms, hightraffic areas, patios... even on walls! Runners are almost a given for modern kitchen design. If you’re not ready to place an heirloom anywhere near marinara sauce, worry not: companies like Ruggable offer seriously stylish designs that can go right in the washer. When you’re styling a space, think of nontradtional ways you can use rugs in your space. From a bed throw to a throw pillow, rugs can do a lot more than cover your living room floor. photo courtesy Ruggable

STAIR RUNNERS WITH

personality

Stairs are a fantastic spot to inject a little flair into your home’s décor. Stair runners are a great way to bring that zest – and as a bonus, they’re incredibly practical, too!

Stair runners help protect the wood of your stairs from the wear and tear of heavy traffic. At the same time, they offer you a more secure and comfortable step. Most people opt for durable materials for their stair runners, such as wool carpet. Some people opt for natural textured fibers, like sisal. If you’re considering a custom stair runner, a professional will come and measure the space and go over your options. photo courtesy Carpet One 28 louisville homes & gardens | September 2021

INSETS

Move aside, rugs: carpets are here to stay. This designer inset carpet into hardwood, creating a permanent “rug” that nobody will ever trip on. The edging makes this incredibly eye-catching. Obviously, this is something of a commitment. This works best in a space you won’t want to reconfigure the layout of often. photo courtesy Millhaven Homes

GEO-COOL

Cool shapes are everywhere in rug designs. People are loving rainbow shapes, fun geometric patterns, even unusual rug shapes. This look is very on-trend, which can be a mixed bag. This look may not be as timeless as a classic pattern. Consider these hip styles for kids’ rooms, playrooms and other space you change up often. photo courtesy Ruggable

MIXED PILE

Higher-pile rugs are gaining in popularity, but rugs with mixed pile heights are just more fun! They bring a ton of visual interest to any space.

If you’re considering hopping on this trend, choose one with a simpler color palette to let the texture really shine. photo courtesy IKEA

Tours are open to the public through December 19th. Tours will take place Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays from 10 am–4 pm, and on Sundays from 1 pm–4 pm. Visit ideahouseky.com to purchase tickets. A portion of the proceeds from ticket sales goes to The LEE Initiative and Gilda’s Club Kentuckiana. For more about the Kentucky home that will be featured in the upcoming October issue of Southern Living, visit: southernliving.com/ideahouse Build Team: Jason Black and Jimmy King of Artisan Signature Homes; Brandon Ingram of C. Brandon Ingram Design, interior designer, Sarah Bartholomew, and landscape architect Josh Myers of Myers & Co. Landscape Architecture

louisville homes & gardens | September 2021 29

Lyric at Norton Commons

Offers “Best of Both Worlds” If you’ve been living in, around, or have visited Norton Commons in the last few years, you’ve most definitely seen the community swiftly grow with retail space, homes, and now apartment buildings. Veranda Apartments, for instance, for years has given residents access to living in the area without the upkeep, and now, another community will be added to the mix. Lyric at Norton Commons is now accepting applications for its brand new apartment homes, located near the North Village Town Square. BY TAYLOR RILEY

Divine Design

Bristol Development Group has great admiration for the Norton Commons neighborhood and developed Lyric as an additional option for housing that was “wanted and needed in the area,” says Alissa McClard, Director of Asset Management. This space is an opportunity for those who “want to be in Norton Commons but don’t want the upkeep,” she says. “(It’s) also for people who want to downsize.” The company worked with the Norton Commons town architect to ensure that the buildings would fit the style and feel of the community. “We wanted to bring an attractive piece of real estate,” Alissa says. The development company recently participated in the annual Norton Commons Art Festival, too, where they unveiled two sculptures that will be installed at the property. “It was an addition to the art and beauty (already present) and will be visible to all the residents,” she says. The first sculpture is located in the courtyard off Peppermint and the second will be featured on the corner of Meeting Street and River Beauty Loop. This property is a tad different from Bristol’s first development, Veranda, as it features interior corridors and four elevators that lead up to each floor. Lyric has an attached covered parking structure and a “stellar” amenity package, says Alissa, with retail space coming to the property in the immediate future. Just some of the many features of the residence include a 24-hour-7day-a-week package library for deliveries, gift-wrap room, and Do-It-Yourself project space. “I’ve never seen an amenities package as robust as this will be,” she says.

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Lyric residents can enjoy Norton Commons’ perks such as a Farmer’s Market each Sunday, a lake, local parks, coffee houses, bakeries, restaurants and an outdoor amphitheater.

34 louisville homes & gardens | September 2021

F ire Pit Fun The

end of summer means we’re finally going to feel a break in the temperatures, which means it’s time to reclaim our backyards! There’s no better way to enjoy these evenings than gathering around a fire pit. If it’s been a while since you last purchased a fire pit, heads up: the selection may be pretty different than you remember! A bevvy of options are on the market that might make your head spin. From classic log-burning iron pits to a sleek ethanol fire tables, there’s a lot to consider before you buy.

We’ll show you some of the latest options available. You’ll be ready to call up some friends – or grab a book and a blanket – and cozy up to these fabulous fire features!

Breeo X Series 24 smokeless fire pit ($579 breeo.com)

The Stats:

57% of people who have a backyard fire feature say theirs is a classic style fire pit. 21% say theirs is a permanent fixture. Fire tables and tabletop fire features are growing in popularity, but still only represent 7% of US homeowners. Owning one would definitely make you a trendsetter in your neighborhood! (Source: statista)

Denali Brew Linear Gas Fire Pit Table from Outdoor Greatroom (price from $2,199, available at Housewarmings myhousewarmings.com)

According to a Houzz survey, fire pits are one of the three most popular additions to backyard spaces by homeowners who are renovating. According to Realtor.com, a permanent fire pit alone may yield up to a 67% ROI when selling your home. It’s not a money-maker in and of itself, but the benefit of having an outdoor living space on your listing is huge! Outdoor grey round concrete fire pit ($1299 arhaus.com)

Solo Stove smokeless portable fire pit ($349 solostove.com)

BioLite Firepit+ wood and charcoal burning firepit or grill ($249 cabelas.com)

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Design Guru:

LOUISVILLE FURNITURE

Values Customer Service, Immediate Availability While the pandemic has had numerous negative effects on families, one Louisville company wants to decrease the headache of furniture buying during an already troublesome time. Louisville Furniture offers custom orders and in-stock merchandise for immediate availability to its customers. BY TAYLOR RILEY

Owners Dan and Lori Dougherty have been in the furniture business for decades, so it’s only the best for their clients. It’s just the married couple on their store floor; well, and their salesmen – Golden Retriever brothers Sammy and Hudson, who come to work every day. The couple says without pushy salespeople, it’s more of a family-feel where customers can make decisions on their own time. The husband and wife team have a split dynamic in the store, as Dan, who has been in the business for 40 years, does more of the behind-the-scenes stuff and Lori, a former Hotelier and television spokesperson, handles the sales floor and advertising.

Louisville Furniture has moderate price points and a variety of top quality brands. Customers can take advantage of their in-house design with purchase, custom orders, and tons of merchandise in stock for immediate availability and delivery. “We are just set up differently,” they say, comparing their business to other local stores. Lori can sit down with customers to help design their furniture to fit any room in their home. She works with customers to plan and lay out the room of their choice, down to the minute details. “We want to really work with the customers,” she says. “We can hold their hand or let them on their own.” What sets the store apart from the competition is that they have furniture on their floor that is ready for purchase that day. “Take it with you!” Lori says. The couple buys products year-round, so stock is never limited. “The catalog is out on the floor,” the Dougherty’s say. Customers, though, should act fast, as the inventory moves quickly. Inventory can be both classic and trendy, the owners say. The store carries a variety of styles for apartment living to larger homes. Lori suggests bringing samples and photos so she can get a sense of what you may want to see in your room. Gray, she says, is still very popular, but she is seeing pops of color, much like what you would see on HGTV. Lori says the pandemic has brought many customers in to transform their homes into ones they’ve seen and loved on TV. Louisville Furniture has a setup and delivery date set every week, so customers don’t have to worry about perilous pandemic delivery times. New inventory is in every day, and financing can be customized to fit customers’ needs. The couple value the comfortable environment they’ve made for customers. “We are here and happy to help our customers 7 days a week,” Lori and Dan say. Take a look at Louisville Furniture’s overview of inventory on its website, www.louisvillefurnitureky.com. Visit Louisville Furniture today at 211 N. English Station Road in Middletown or call the store at (502) 919-8557. ■

Realtors

Special Advertising Section: The Real Deal Realtors

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The Real Deal

Janet Dischinger B E RKSHIRE HATHAWAY

For Janet Dischinger, the key to her success comes from a sincere passion for her business and her ability to connect with every client. “I understand that it’s often a big change of life that can lead someone to buying a new home,” she says. “It can possibly be the biggest purchase a person ever makes. I want my clients to feel they are top priority and know I have their best interest at heart. I take pride in being available to them, even long after a closing.” Janet specializes in many facets of the Real Estate business. “I truly enjoy mentoring firsttime buyers, seniors who may be down-sizing, identifying potential investment properties and providing guidance to those in the luxury market,” she says. “There’s a lot that goes on behind the scenes and I enjoy coming up with creative ways to problem solve in difficult situations. I also feel it is instrumental to communicate thoroughly during each step of the home buying and selling process.”

FOR M OR E INF O , VI S I T J AN ETDI S C H I N G E R . BHHSPAR K SWEI S B ERG . C O M. YO U C AN R E A C H JANE T AT 502-4 9 4 -5 4 3 5 , AN D YO U C AN A L S O FOLLOW HE R O N FAC EB O O K .

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The Real Deal Noir Realty With a diverse group of agents and experts in their field, the Noir Realty team is dedicated to increasing homeownership for all Kentuckians. The firm is also focused on creating workforce development opportunities for high school graduates and GED recipients wanting careers in the real estate industry by recently offering several real estate scholarships. The firm is also launching the Noir Realty Agent Training Program for newly graduated real estate agents interested in social media marketing, personal branding, professional etiquette, and all areas of the real estate industry. Engaged with the community and working right on the front lines, Noir Realty has made it their mission to go beyond just listing and selling real estate. “Versatility is the key,” says Tamika Jackson, Principal Broker and Co-Owner. “We’re here to create opportunities for individuals and find ways to be of service to the community.” Through her leadership and connective network, Noir Realty puts its initiative into practical application. From general contractors to interior decorators, Noir Realty is a powerful source for their clients’ residential needs. Noir Realty goes beyond the glitz and glam associated with the real estate business. “This is serious work. You have to love it,” Tamika says. “We do, and we’re in for the long haul.” NOIR REALTY KY LLC IS LOCATED AT 2900 W BROADWAY SUITE 223, 40211. THEY CAN BE REACHED AT 1-877-NOIRREL(664-7735) AND INFO@NOIR-REALTY.COM. FOR MORE INSIGHT, VISIT NOIR-REALTY.COM

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The Real Deal

Skip Banister

INTEGRA MORTGAGE GROUP As a one-man “boutique” company with thirty years in the business and a proven track record of honesty and integrity, Skip Banister originates, processes, and closes every transaction himself. By basing his operation entirely from home, he has eliminated operating costs, allowing him to offer his services at a better value than banks and traditional store-front mortgage companies. This results in lower interest rates and loan costs for his clients. “I have access to hundreds of mortgage lenders nationwide, so I am not bound by the narrow offerings of banks and direct lenders,” he says. YOU CAN REACH SKIP DIRECTLY AT INTEGRAFS.@AOL.COM OR (502) 314-5626.

The Real Deal Susan Graf NORTON COMMONS

“Norton Commons is such an incredible neighborhood,” says Susan Graf, Principal Broker of Real Estate in that beloved community. “We offer a variety of options for your new home, single family, townhouses, condominiums and live/works, which are spaces where you can have your business on the first floor and live above.” Having all the business and amenities within walking distance is not only convenient, it’s a fabulous way to support local businesses, get to know your neighbors, and feel like you are on vacation when you are home. “I think people used to have a harder time understanding Norton Commons but now most do,” Susan says. “Traffic to our shops and concerts are getting larger every year.” YOU C A N FI ND O U T MO R E AT W W W. N OR TON C OM M ON S R E ALTY. C OM , AN D R E AC H S U S AN AT SUSA NGR A F@NO R T O NC O MMO NS . C OM

The Real Deal

Kyle Elmore

W H IT E P IC K E T R E A L E STAT E Kyle Elmore has been recognized as a top real estate broker under 40 here in Louisville. A strong negotiator who always puts his clients first, he’s cultivated a first rate skillset and understands the nuances of dealmaking. “I treat my clients’ needs as if they were my own,” he says. “I care about doing an amazing job for them and their family when they hire me to represent their property or to help them find their dream home.” Kyle spent about seven years in corporate work, running a sales division for a healthcare startup before jumping into residential real estate. He applies the same level of expertise and vigorous spirit to the work he does today. He also embraces the spirit of philanthropy, making a generous donation to Coalition for the Homeless with each home that he sells. Benefitting the same cause, he’s the founder of the Craft Beer Throwdown, an annual event that pits local breweries against each other in competition to determine which one has Louisville’s favorite brew. FO R M ORE I N FO, VI SI T K Y L E S E L L S L O UI S V I L L E . C O M

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The Real Deal Libby Loeser

L I S T W I T H L I B B Y I N C . | KEL L ER W I L L I A M S L O U IS V IL L E E A S T

“This is a small but mighty team,” says Libby Loeser of List With Libby Inc. With an emphasis on integrity and drive to put their vast expertise in action, these three are focused on problem solving and around-theclock service for their clients. They are top industry leaders, working in residential sales, luxury sales, commercial sales & leasing and real estate investing. Libby has a background in interior design that gives her a strong, unique perspective. Laura Rathke, the team’s buyer specialist, also has a background in interior design, having worked for notable New York designers. The List With Libby Inc team is completed by Jessica Burckle, the executive administrator. “We believe in engaging in real estate transactions that are a win/win for everyone,” Libby says. “You need an agent that is advocating for your best interest in a complicated industry full of ever changing rules. We like to help clients see the bigger picture. A home is still a massive investment. You want to make it a sound one. WWe want to be your advocate.” FIND OUT MORE AT LIBBY.KW.COM. YOU CAN REACH LIBBY DIRECTLY AT (502) 314-5099 OR LIBBY@KW.COM 9911 SHELBYVILLE RD SUITE 100 LOUISVILLE KY 40223

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According to the latest information available from the Louisville Association of REALTORS®, our real estate market is hot, hot, HOT!

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average year-to-date price compared to last year

▼ 20.9

average cumulative days on market

▼ 19%

inventory compared to last year

The Real Deal Morgan Hancock & Jonathan Klunk SIX DEGREES

Jonathan and Morgan are eating ice cream and candy when they should be working. Actually, they are working! This photo was taken at their newest listing: a live/workspace in the heart of Norton Commons which includes a condo upstairs and an actively operating Candy Shop on the first floor. So, why do Jonathan and Morgan love real estate? Is it because they get to eat ice cream at 2:00 in the afternoon? Obviously! But that’s not the only reason. They also love using their creativity and expert negotiation skills to help their residential and commercial clients accomplish their real estate dreams. You want that house? They got you. Need to sell your property for top dollar? Try and stop them! But seriously, they love their clients, and they’d love to make YOU one. If you’re looking to have a fun, stress-free real estate experience, give this dynamic duo a call. Your ice cream is standing by. MORGAN HANCOCK - 502-544-7765 - MORGAN@SIXDEGREESRE.COM JONATHAN KLUNK - 502-410-8181 -JONATHAN@SIXDEGREESRE.COM

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Gardens

Welcome Home: Fall Front Porch Inspiration

Fall Flowers: A to Z

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Luxury You Don’t Have to Wait For Louisville Furniture is a family-owned business with over 40 years of experience in the local and national markets. We offer a variety of quality in-stock and custom design furniture.

fall

FLOWERS

"By all these lovely tokens September days are here, With summer’s best of weather And autumn’s best of cheer."

– from “September” by Helen Hunt Jackson BY DAWN ANDERSON

here is more to gardening at summer’s end and the start of autumn than harvesting and putting some mums out on the front porch. With the milder September weather, garden chores are once again pleasurable most any time of day. Planting fall-friendly blooms, shrubs, annuals, and perennials will add color and dimension to the garden for several more weeks. Get going now for established root systems by the first freeze. We rounded up some ideal choices for the Louisville area’s USDA Plant Hardiness Zone 6b/7a. • Amaranthus: gorgeous ﬁller in fall ﬂoral arrangements • Aster: low-maintenance, high color payoff • Balloon Flowers: prefer full sun, blue varieties are stunningly vivid

211 North English Station Rd. Louisville, Kentucky 40223 Visit our showroom today.

(502) 919-8557

Monday - Saturday 10am - 4pm Sunday - 12pm - 4pm 52 louisville homes & gardens | September 2021

• Beautyberry: blooms in summer, purple berries in the fall • Begonia Grandis: colorful blossoms, bright foliage, and no deadheading necessary • Calibrachoa (Million Bells): practically fuss-free annuals popular for pots and hanging baskets

AtoZ

• Caryopteris (Blue Beard/Blue Mist): cover and food for pollinators • Celosia (Cockscomb): an annual in this zone, needs space and good drainage • Chrysanthemums: available in a wide variety of colors, star of the autumn garden • Cornflower: another annual here, beloved by birds and butterflies • Cosmos: a lovely annual for flower arrangements • Dahlia: big showy blooms until the first frost, dig up the bulbs and replant in spring • Dianthus: lovely fragrance and beautifully fringed petals • Eutrochium (Joe Pye Weed): tall, fragrant flowers attract butterflies and hummingbirds

• Pansies: plant in late September, winter-hardy in a mulched plant bed or containers • Russian Sage: Hummingbirds love the tiny purple flowers. • Sedum (Stonecrop): Autumn Joy is a crucial late-season food source for pollinators, then provides long-lasting cut flowers. • Shrub roses: look for newer cold-hardy, disease-resistant hybrids • Snapdragon: provide visual interest with vertical blooming structure • Sunflowers: for that summer feeling lasting well into fall • Sweet Alyssum: an annual carpet of tiny blooms that also works well in window boxes and hanging baskets • Zinnia: attract bees and butterflies, tough enough for a light frost

• Fuchsia: well-drained soil is critical, put into dormancy or overwinter indoors • Goldenrod: Kentucky’s state flower • Helenium (Sneezeweed): draws butterflies, repels deer and rabbits • Heliopsis (False Sunflower): pollinators’ perennial paradise • Heuchera (Coral Bells): colorful, frilly foliage for borders or solo in containers • Hydrangea: shrubs with big lacy blooms of papery flowers, popular for table centerpiece arrangements • Impatiens: pretty window box annuals that don’t mind shade and cool weather • Lobelia: delicate-looking blooms in striking blues and ultraviolets • Marigold: Transplants come in a range of sizes and are unbothered by pests.

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502-536-7884 breathewrightservices.com Jenny Wright Owner/President

• Nasturtium: Enjoy the color through September. Add edible leaves, ﬂowers, and seedpods to salads. louisville homes & gardens | September 2021 53

Bourbon

The History of Our Bourbon Heritage

Bourbon Heritage Month

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September is designated as a month of celebration for America’s only native spirit. Like most Kentuckians, we ‘re loud and proud about our love of Bourbon. To commemorate Bourbon Heritage Month this year, we asked Master Distillers from around the state to share some of their secrets with you... special thanks to Mark Fitchner | courtesy photos bourbon facts courtesy of the Kentucky Distillers Association

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Bardstown Bourbon Company Master Distiller Steve Nally

Tell us about your Collaborative Distilling Program. Our Collaborative Distilling Program brings together some of the most experienced distillers in the industry under one roof. This completely unique and inclusive process allows our customers to create alongside us and drives education, innovation, and experimentation. We produce nearly 40 unique mash bills for some of the finest whiskey and bourbon brands, including Jefferson’s, High West, Belle Meade, Hirsch, Calumet, James E. Pepper, Cyrus Noble, and many others, led by three masters and a first-class team of operators, using some of the most sophisticated technology in distilling. Tell us about your custom distilling. Bardstown Bourbon Company’s custom distilling program provides access to consultation with our distillers, creating a transparent relationship with the team of operators.

This approach is fundamental to our core company philosophy of collaboration and transparency. Additionally, this completely unique and inclusive process allows our customers to create alongside us, providing both an education component and the capacity for true innovation. What is Ignition? Bardstown Bourbon Company’s open source scalable SCADA platform Ignition has allowed internal programmers to design a system that efficiently controls processes, tracks and displays key data points, and allows us to analyze all captured data without limits. It’s a highly automated, state-of-the-art system that allows us to provide unmatched and unprecedented flexibility, transparency, and control of the whiskey production process. information courtesy of bardstownbourbon.com

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Buffalo Trace Distillery Master Distiller Harlen Wheatley

What is a Master Distiller? What are the three most important aspects of the role? A Master Distiller is one that has mastered their trade. It comes through experience and measured by the products that they make. Most important aspects would be; Quality driven, Functional and technical strength, People-focused. How did you get started on your path to becoming a Master Distiller? Getting started, I thought it was important to develop a good career path along with getting a good foundation of knowledge, whether it be through experience or education. Once the path was set, I chose our distillery because I saw the potential and knew that there were lots of room for growth. I started at the bottom and worked my way through each challenge. What is the difference between whiskey and bourbon? Whiskey is a category and bourbon is a type. There are many types of whiskeys, and bourbon is one of them. What are the differences between brewing and distilling? There are many similarities with regards to quality processes up front. The grain handling, the yeasting – however the type of yeast and fermentation is a little different – and of course in distilling, there is the added step of the distillation processes. The way you treat the final product, and the time frames are quite different between brewing and distilling, with distillation and aging sometimes taking decades. Where do you see the bourbon industry headed? We see the bourbon industry continuing to grow into the near future. There are many opportunities globally, and we see no reason that bourbon cannot compete on a global scale. Bourbon has so many strengths, like flexibility, quality, history, value – just to name a few – so there is no reason bourbon can’t hold its own globally.

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Protecting KENTUCKY’S

BOURBON

SINCE

2003

Locally Owned and Enjoyed WWW.FIREPROTECTIONSERVICES.US

bourbon

iff Distil

Head Distiller Brian Sprance

What is the difference between brewing and distilling? There are countless similarities between brewing and distilling, but the main difference lies within managing the open fermentation cycles and embracing the controlled chaos that inevitably occurs with co-fermentations of wild yeast and bacteria. At New Riff, we are big believers in flora and fauna, the terroir of our distillery. What makes your bourbon different from other brands on the market? We have been very lucky to have the backing of our family ownership to really do things “the right way,” even when it’s not the most profitable. This means we have been able to source the highest quality ingredients from around the world, use the best equipment in the industry, and wait the 4+ long years needed for our whiskey to fully mature. What is your bourbon mash bill and why is that important for your brand? Our flagship bourbon recipe is 65% corn, 30% rye & 5% malted barley. At New Riff, we consider ourselves a “rye-centric” distillery which simply means we love all things rye. The 30% rye contributes a nice peppery, citrus forward nose that also balances the overall sweetness that people often associate with bourbon. What do you enjoy most about being a Head Distiller? Working within a tight knit team that learns and grows together while making the best whiskey we possibly can.

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T is

Bourbon is an $8.6 billion signature industry in Kentucky, generating 20,100 jobs with an annual payroll of $1 billion.

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e tuc y rtisa Distillery Master Distiller Jade Thomas Peterson

What are the three most important aspects of being a Master Distiller? How do you feel about your title? The role is a fiery mix of risk taking, mistake making and whiskey tasting. I feel like production and development is such a huge team effort, and I have a great team at KAD. I know there is so much to learn and apply to the craft that it may take a lifetime for me to accept the title.

on good ingredients, good barrels, and good technique. This allows us to give this bourbon the attention it deserves through the process. This attention to detail, I feel, comes through on the final product. Our bottled in bond is an estate grown, double copper pot distilled bourbon from Oldham county Kentucky. If that doesn’t make your mouth water, I don’t know what will!

How did you get started on your path to becoming a Master Distiller? In a very non-traditional way. I was a part time bottling employee that fell in love with the industry and the production methods that are used. I had a background in logistics and operations management, which did pair well with my willingness to learn the new trade. I re-enrolled in college at Western Kentucky University and completed the Brewing and Distilling Sciences program, alongside taking international courses at the Institute of Brewing and Distilling. I also had the support of Steve Thompson and Trey Zoeller. When I showed interest, they were able to help me get started and give me just enough freedom to make some mistakes and learn a lot.

For Whiskey Row, we are always blending for taste. So we go out and taste as many of the barrels as we can pre-blend, making sure we hit the flavor notes we are seeking. This process is normally a combination of distillery employees to give us varied palettes to compare flavor.

What makes your bourbon, Whiskey Row, different than other brands on the market? We have worked to be a throwback bourbon. We concentrate

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As for single barrels we normally mark certain barrels during the blending process that are highlights or “NOG’s … Nectar Of the Gods. These barrels we set aside for special projects and single barrels. What is in your bourbon mash bill and why is that important for your brand? We strive to keep as much of our production local as possible, with 96% of our grains coming from less than a mile away from our distillery at Waldeck Farms. They grow a great product and we love to keep production as close to traditional as possible.

Associate Distiller Ethan Whitman How would you explain the art of tasting and selecting bourbon? Tasting is complicated because everyone has different palettes and likes different things but that is a good thing. This makes selecting and blending a product that everyone enjoys harder but much more satisfying because you know the customers are going to love it. My attempt at a definition would be the utilization of a variety of palettes to create a product the consumer will always be happy with. How did you get started on your path to becoming a distiller? Almost 4 years ago my original plan was to go into liquor sales, but I wanted experience in every part of the process so I could be an expert on my product. I began in bottling at Kentucky Artisan, and every day after my shift, I would go in back and bug Jade with questions. Eventually he let me try my hand at distilling and I’ve been in love with it since What do you enjoy most about being a distiller? I’d say the pride in making a product that consumers enjoy so much, they will pay to see how I make it happen. I love interacting with tours that come through and answering questions or just making them feel special. It’s really cool to me that people are so interested in what I do everyday that they make trips from all over the world to learn and see how

I do it. Since I started, I’ve said, “If people are willing to pay $10 and an hour of their day to come watch me do my job, then I must have a pretty cool job!” Where do you see the bourbon industry going in the future? I only see it skyrocketing. Bourbon has been flying off the shelf in the past ten years and I’ve seen some seemingly basic bourbons start becoming rare as they are so desirable. I think we will follow in the footsteps of craft beer boom and we will see a big craft spirits boom.rrels we set aside for special projects and single barrels. Why is aging so important to bourbon? Aging or maturation is where bourbon derives a majority of its flavor and all of its color. All of the woody, oaky, and mellow flavors that whiskey lovers crave is all from the bourbon penetrating the charred layer into the barrel. And without aging, bourbon would be clear and not the beautiful amber that looks so good on the shelf or in a glass. What makes your bourbon different? It draws its inspiration from the origins of bourbon history. What really makes it so unique is it incorporates bourbons from states all along the Ohio River, much of which many people would not have an opportunity to try.

Sip on The Commonwealth has an inventory of 9.3 million barrels of bourbon. This: There are now almost two barrels for every person living in Kentucky. louisville homes & gardens | September 2021 69

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Bourbon is America’s only native spirit, as declared by Congress in 1964. It must be made with a minimum of 51 percent corn, aged in charred new oak barrels, stored at no more than 125 proof and bottled no less than 80 proof.

tle

Why does Castle + Key not have a Master Distiller? We have not had an individual in the Master Distiller role for over two years. Instead, we use a team of individuals that work collectively to create our spirits and represent our brand. We have multiple individuals that represent the different roles of a Master Distiller, such as research and development, distillery operations, quality, blending, and public relations. We value the collective effort of an entire team rather than an individual. How would you describe the art of tasting and selecting bourbon? Being a distillery that is still in its infancy means that we have no historical data on how our barrels will age and mature on site; therefore, we have to take a much more thoughtful approach to barrel selection and blending. The main rickhouse that we store barrels in, Warehouse B, is unlike any other in the world. It is five stories high and six hundred feet long and made entirely of brick. We carefully monitor the environmental conditions in our warehouses to predict how our bourbon will age, while also sampling and tasting our barrels often. We try to find the delicate balance between art and science by being both qualitative as well as quantitative in our evaluation process. For us, we desire bourbon that is not only high quality but has very unique characteristics, so we are always looking for those barrels that showcase the diversity of our whiskey. What makes your rye whiskey different than other brands on the market? We take a slightly different approach with our spirits; we strive for a consistency in quality rather than consistency of flavor. Each blended aged spirit will have a unique flavor profile based on barrels that were blended together and will be associated with a release year and batch number. The release year will be indicated on the gold foot badge at the bottom of each bottle and the batch number is specified on the back label. This vintage strategy is very commonly used in the wine industry. What is in your bourbon mash bill and why is that important for your brand? We make a traditional style rye bourbon as well as a wheated bourbon, both made from Kentucky grown white corn. We also make a rye bourbon that is made with Hickory King corn, which is an heirloom variety of corn also grown in Kentucky. It is important to us that we honor the tradition of our historical distillery by using grain and yeast that is similar in profile to what would have been used at this site over a hundred years ago while also using a modern approach to bourbon production. What is new on the horizon for your distillery? Anything new coming to the market? We believe in creating all of our spirits from scratch and that approach has required us to be patient as we wait for our brown spirits to come of age. In December of 2020, we released our first rye whiskey, Restoration Rye. Our Restoration Rye 2020 Batch 1 won double gold in the San Francisco World Spirits Competition, which was a testament to our incredible team and the time it’s taken us to release our spirit in what we feel is the right way. This upcoming year will be a very big year for Castle & Key, since we’ll be releasing additional batches of our Restoration Rye as well as the first ever Castle & Key traditional and wheated bourbons.

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a rs ar Their char is different. It takes just 40 seconds of fire to achieve Maker’s Mark customary number-three char. The process of firing barrels opens pores in the staves and caramelizes the natural wood sugars. This helps give Maker’s Mark those pleasant vanilla notes. But before the firing can happen, the cooperage (or barrel-building company) must “season” the new American white oak used for our barrels outdoors for nine months, including summer. This helps remove the bitter tannins in the wood that would otherwise go into the bourbon. Their yeast strain is older than Maker’s itself. Sometimes the best, freshest ingredient available is an heirloom yeast strain that’s more than 150 years old. In fact, this highly guarded microorganism has been passed down to every bottle of Maker’s Mark ever produced. Would it have been easier to switch to cheaper stock yeast when

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everyone else was? Sure. But, it wouldn’t be better. And, it wouldn’t be Maker’s Mark. The yeast ferments in tanks that are original to the old Burks Distillery that predates Maker’s Mark. They’re made from cypress planks more than 100 years old. Hard to source these days, cypress is ideal because it has no effect on the flavor of Maker’s Mark. Why red winter wheat mash? Soft red winter wheat is the Maker’s Mark® flavoring grain and star of its mash bill. In a day when distiller’s rye – which can have an unwanted bite – was the go-to grain for whisky makers, Bill Samuels, Sr., set out for a flavor that would let his new bourbon stand out in the crowd. After some trial and error, he discovered exactly what he was thirsting for. information courtesy of MakersMark.com

ses

Master Distiller Brent Elliott

Why is Four Roses different? Why two mashbills? Four Roses is the only Bourbon Distillery that combines 5 proprietary yeast strains with two separate mashbills to handcraft 10 distinct Bourbon recipes, each with its own unique character, spiciness, and rich fruity flavors. Up to all 10 recipes are mingled by hand to create Four Roses Bourbon. Six are mingled for Four Roses Small Batch Select Bourbon. Four are mingled for Four Roses Small Batch Bourbon. One recipe is hand selected for Four Roses Single Barrel Bourbon. We employ two unique mashbills (grain recipes) in our production. One is 60% corn, and the other is 75% corn. The lower corn mashbill contains 35% rye, significantly more than other Bourbons, resulting in a spicy, full-bodied taste.

Limestone-rich water from the spring-fed Salt River is added to the mashbill. Each mashbill is cooked to perfection by tightly controlling the temperature to protect the delicate flavors of the different grains. How is your warehousing different? We’re the only distillery using single-story rack warehouses during the aging process to provide a gentle, undisturbed, and more consistent maturation process. The temperature varies by about 8 degrees Fahrenheit from the top rack to the bottom. Traditional, metal-clad, multi-story warehouses in Kentucky will vary in temperature by as much as 35 degrees. information courtesy of FourRoses.com

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Master Distiller Chris Morris | Assistant Master Distiller Elizabeth McCall Tell us about your two distillers. Chris and Elizabeth have been integral in driving innovation and shaping the story of Woodford Reserve, sharing the belief that the keys to making the World’s Finest Bourbon are not only time and patience, but science and art. As the second Master Distiller at the Woodford Reserve Distillery, Chris was an integral character in the development of Woodford Reserve. As head Master Distiller of one of the world’s fastest growing bourbons, he spends his days innovating and planning future releases. Chris began his career in bourbon in 1976 as a trainee in Brown-Forman’s central lab. In 1997, he found himself as an understudy to Lincoln Henderson, Woodford Reserve’s Inaugural Master Distiller, who in 2003 Chris succeeded.

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Woodford Reserve Assistant Master Distiller Elizabeth McCall, CSS (Certified Specialist of Spirits) is the second generation of her family to work in the bourbon industry and one of the youngest female distillers in the United States. She followed in her mother’s footsteps starting as a sensory expert and working in the quality department How is your maturation different? We mature Woodford Reserve in new, charred, white oak barrels of our own making. The barrel is a key ingredient in our process, contributing flavor, complexity, and balance. That’s why we craft, toast, and char bourbon barrels at our very own cooperage. After filling, barrels age in our unique heat-cycled warehouses until mature. information courtesy of woodfordreserve.com

Angel’s Envy

Chief Innovations Officer Wes Henderson | Master Distiller Lincoln Henderson What makes Angel’s Envy different?

Why port?

ANGEL’S ENVY is what happens when 200 years of bourbon tradition meet an independent master craftsman’s instinct to improve. It’s a total return to the art of craft-first, hand blended batches of 8 to 12 barrels at a time.

Scotch has been finished in fortified wine barrels like Sherry or Port for generations. So we wondered, why isn’t anyone really doing this seriously with bourbon? The finishing process can really enhance the whiskey with a subtle sweetness and complex flavors.

We personally taste every barrel throughout each step of the aging process to ensure that the spirits meet our perfectionist standards. This would be enough for any other premium bourbon, but we think you deserve more. That’s why we finish every one of our whiskeys in handselected finishing barrels. For an added layer of flavor and complexity, our bourbon and special cask strength are finished in ruby port casks, and our rye is finished in rum barrels. There’s no set time for this process.

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As we tasted our bourbon, a Port finish really seemed like it would fit our bourbon’s flavor profile perfectly. It added just the right layer of richness to our whiskey. While it took us some trial and error to figure out the ideal aging window for Angel’s Envy, we knew that we had a winner once we found it. information courtesy of angelsenvy.com

Tours available Wednesday through Sunday. Make your reservation TODAY! Follow us on instagram at @whiskeyrowbourbon & @billygoatstrutwhiskey kentuckyartisandistillery.com | 6230 Old LaGrange Road, Crestwood, KY | 502.822.3042

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