National Bourbon Heritage Month, created in 2007 by an act of congress, celebrates America’s “Native Spirit.” Recognized every September, bourbon lovers across the US share their love and appreciation for this delicious spirit.

From rich family heritage to traditions and legacy, the bourbon industry has always been intertwined with our country’s history. September is about honoring this spirit and all of the people who have contributed to and continue to carry on this great American tradition.

To celebrate National Bourbon Heritage Month, we’ve put together this list of tasty bourbon recipes.

Classic Mint Julep – Kentucky Style

• 2 Cups sugar
• 2 Cups water
• Sprigs of fresh mint
• Crushed ice
• Kentucky Bourbon
• Silver Julep Cups

1. Make a simple syrup by boiling sugar and water together for five minutes.
2. Cool and place in a covered container with six or eight sprigs of fresh mint, then refrigerate overnight.
3. Make one julep at a time by filling a julep cup with crushed ice, adding one tablespoon mint syrup
4. and two ounces of Kentucky Bourbon.
5. Stir rapidly with a spoon to frost the outside of the cup.
6. Garnish with a sprig of fresh mint.

No Derby Party is complete without the Mint Julep which has been the traditional beverage of Churchill Downs and the Kentucky Derby for nearly a century. Each year, almost 120,000 Mint Juleps are served over the two-day period of the Kentucky Oaks and Kentucky Derby. Visit Kentucky Derby website.

Classic Manhattan

• ¾ oz sweet vermouth
• 2 ½ oz bourbon whiskey
• 1 dash bitters
• 1 maraschino cherry
• 1 twist orange peel

1. Combine the vermouth, bourbon whiskey, and bitters with 2-3 ice cubes in a mixing glass.
2. Stir or shake gently so you won’t cloud the drink.
3. Place the cherry in a chilled cocktail glass and strain the whiskey mixture over the cherry.

Mitch Morgan

• 1 shot of bourbon
• 1 half slice of cooked bacon

Combine ingredients and enjoy. Yep. That’s it. The smoky bacon pairs wonderfully with the wood in the bourbon and makes a delicious garnish, and its fat cuts the bite of the alcohol with ease.

Looking for more delicious recipes? Click here!