September is National Bourbon Heritage Month. Started in 2007, this is an official recognition of America’s “Native Spirit” and a celebration of how this iconic liquor has played an important role in American culture and economics since the 18th century.
Even if you’re not into alcohol, there are still ways to celebrate this month. Over the past few years, several non-alcoholic bourbons have launched, including one of our favorites: Spiritless Kentucky 74. Founded in 2019 by Lauren Chitwood, Abbey Ferguson, and Lexie Larsen, Spiritless is rooted in a love of hospitality and fine spirits. But it’s also founded on the belief that everyone can benefit from moderation.
With businesses to run and eight children under the age of eight between them, Chitwood, Ferguson, and Larsen wanted to create beverages that could elevate their evenings and not leave them with a hangover. So using their combined knowledge of manufacturing, entrepreneurship, and mixology, they came together to craft a spirit that could mimic their favorite liquors without any of the drawbacks that come from alcoholic beverages.
After months spent developing the perfect recipe, the Kentucky 74 was born. Inspired by the founders’ hometown of Louisville, Kentucky, the drink contains all of the flavor and depth that people love from bourbon. Notes of caramel, vanilla, and oak, make for a smooth finish, and a hint of pepper brings the heat of a traditional bourbon for a result that is every bit as good as the real thing. But don’t just take our word for it. The Kentucky 74 was awarded Best Non-Alcoholic Spirit and won a gold medal in the 2021 L.A. Spirits Awards.
Curious about how you can get started with Spiritless Kentucky 74? Try this recipe that we crafted earlier this year!
Smoked Tea Toddy Recipe:
Ingredients
- ¾ cup hot water
- 1 ½ -2 oz. Kentucky 74
- 1/4 oz. Raft Smoked Tea Vanilla syrup
- 1/4 oz. fresh lemon juice
- 1 cinnamon quill
- 1 lemon slice
Instructions
Pour the hot water into a mug. Add the Kentucky 74, the tea syrup, and the lemon juice. Stir until the syrup has dissolved. Taste, and add more syrup or lemon juice to adjust sweetness and tartness. Garnish with cinnamon quill and lemon slice.
Looking for more ways to enjoy Kentucky 74? Check out our recipes for a Fig Old Fashioned and a Spiced Apple Old Fashioned. Cheers!
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