Bourbon Advent Calendars - A New Kentucky Holiday Tradition

The Rise of Bourbon Advent Calendars

Advent calendars have long been a beloved Christmas tradition, often filled with little chocolates or treats to countdown the days until December 25th. In recent years, the popularity of Kentucky bourbon has led to a new kind of holiday countdown: bourbon advent calendars.

Unique Spins on Advent Calendar Formats

While basic styles simply provide 25 miniature bourbon bottles, some calendars offer creative twists. Options include:

• Wooden display boxes with slides revealing each day's pour behind tiny wooden doors
• Ornate arrangements of full-sized bottles shaped like Christmas trees or wreaths
• Kits with whiskey samples and cocktail recipes to make special holiday drinks

Even distilleries themselves have joined the festivities, releasing annual Kentucky bourbon advent calendars with rare and exclusive bottlings.

Key Benefits for Bourbon Lovers

Beyond the festive flair, bourbon advent calendars also provide advantages for whiskey enthusiasts such as:

• Trying rare, expensive bourbons in small pours
• Discovering new favorite distilleries and bottlings
• Learning more about Kentucky bourbon styles and regions
• Comparing multiple bourbons side-by-side

Ranging from big names like Jim Beam and Maker's Mark to craft icons like Blanton's and Pappy Van Winkle, advent calendars allow bourbon lovers to sample an impressive range of whiskeys.

Popular Annual Releases

Certain distilleries have earned reputations for their yearly bourbon advent calendars, often selling out quickly after launch:

Bardstown Bourbon Company

This innovative Kentucky distillery uses its Collaborative Series advent calendar to showcase its partnerships with renowned whiskey-makers. The 2022 edition included brands like Jefferson's, James E. Pepper, and Copper & Kings.

Diageo

One of the alcohol industry's largest companies assembles this calendar drawing single malts, Scotches, bourbons and ryes from its extensive portfolio of brands. The 2022 Diageo version featured 24 whiskies like Talisker 10 Year Old and Bulleit Bourbon.

Whisky Advent Calendar

WhiskyShop's famous calendar includes not just bourbon but also Scotch whisky, Irish whiskey, and more. Back by popular demand annually, the 2022 calendar had expressions from Kentucky Owl, Little Book, and other top names.

With many limited edition releases selling out fast, bourbon lovers sign up early so they don't miss the chance to enjoy this boozy new holiday tradition.

The Most Wonderful Time for Whiskey

Far from just a fad, bourbon advent calendars have transformed December into a true whiskey lover's paradise. Offering everything from prestigious pours to exciting new discoveries, they make the holiday season a truly spirited joy.

With bourbon's popularity only continuing to grow, these Christmas calendars full of Kentucky's finest seems sure to keep spreading cheer for many more years to come. The countdown to the most wonderful whiskey time of the year has only just begun!

FAQs

What are some popular bourbon advent calendars?

Some of the most popular annual bourbon advent calendar releases include those from Bardstown Bourbon Company, Diageo, and WhiskyShop. These calendars feature a variety of whiskeys from top Kentucky bourbon brands and often sell out very quickly after launch.

What types of bourbons can you find in advent calendars?

Bourbon advent calendars may contain a wide range of styles, from big names like Maker's Mark and Jim Beam to harder-to-find craft bourbons such as those from Kentucky Owl or Little Book. Some also incorporate other American whiskeys like rye or single malt.

Why are bourbon advent calendars growing in popularity?

Beyond the festive and exciting countdown aspect, bourbon advent calendars allow whiskey enthusiasts to try expensive and rare pours in small formats. They also showcase the incredible range and diversity found in Kentucky bourbon for comparison and discovery.

When do bourbon advent calendars go on sale?

Most distilleries and whiskey retailers launch their specialty bourbon advent calendars in October or November, ahead of the holiday season. Limited quantities sell out extremely fast, so interested bourbon lovers need to pre-order calendars as early as possible.