Fine Food and Good Cheer

Enjoy a terrific lunch and a spirits-filled tour at Woodford Reserve Distillery.

Kentucky's countryside looks like a Christmas card come to life. Picturesque stone fences and horse farms fill the rolling hills of the state, and one of the prettiest drives takes you to the doors of a nearly 200-year-old bourbon distillery. This time of year, they serve up more than just fine whiskey. Come on down for a fine meal too-right in the heart of horse country.

Lavish Lunch

Bring your appetite when you arrive at Woodford Reserve, because chef David Larson puts on a fabulous holiday feast. Served during the entire month of December, the repast features plenty of regional and seasonal favorites, as well as some don't-miss specialties. The menu changes often, but the entrées might include a ragoût of beef with roasted garlic and Trappist cheese grits crust or a slow-roasted pork loin stuffed with caramelized onions and pickled peaches. Don't pass up the Old-Fashioned Bread Pudding with Woodford Reserve Sauce or the Woodford Reserve Chocolate Cake with Caramel Icing for dessert.

Soak Up Some Knowledge

Work off that bountiful buffet by taking a walking tour of the bourbon distillery. You'll learn about the history of this amber elixir, as well as see the process by which corn, rye, and malted barley combine to make bourbon.

Take note of the copper pot stills built in Scotland. This is the only distillery in the world that continues to use this method (other distilleries use stainless steel for processing). You'll learn the color of the bourbon comes from being aged in charred white oak barrels, and one full barrel weighs about 500 pounds.

You'll get to see (and smell) the warehouse, where all the barrels of bourbon are stored. The smell-a sweet aroma reminiscent of caramel-permeates the atmosphere. Distillers call this the "angels' share," the part of the whiskey that escapes into the air.

After aging in the barrels for six to eight years, the bourbon is ready. Luckily, you don't have to wait that long.

Shop a Bit

Before leaving, browse the gift shop at Woodford Reserve. Mint julep cups, Christmas ornaments, or a bottle or two of Woodford Reserve Bourbon make fantastic gifts for those with discerning palates. -WANDA MCKINNEY

Copyright Southern Progress Corporation Dec 2006
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