Louisville based Ballotin Whiskey first hit the market in 2015 with four flavored whiskeys: chocolate, caramel turtle, bourbon ball, and chocolate mint. Now, they’re introducing a new product for the first time since their initial release. Just in time for Valentine’s Day, they will have invited some of their favorite brands to join them as they take over Total Wine and More for a “Sweetheart of a Celebration” chocolate takeover where they will release Ballotin Chocolate Cherry Cream, a whiskey cream liqueur, this Saturday, February 9 from 2 to 5 p.m. 

“We know from the flavored whiskeys that people like flavors,” said founder Paul Tuell. “We feel like many people are eating a little lighter these days and skipping dessert. They’re going for an after dinner cocktail instead, and we think this is a nice flavor option snuggled up against the whiskey space that offers a dessert option in a glass.”

He went on to say the whiskey cream has all natural ingredients.

The event at both Total Wine and More stores (Paddock Shops and St Matthews) will also feature tastes of Ballotin Chocolate Whiskey, chocolate treats from Cellar Door Chocolates and Chateau Bourbon B&B plus sips from West Sixth Brewing and other local brands.

The Chocolate Takeover benefits The Nicolas Fortin Scholarship. Each year Bourbon Baroque, a group that performs music from  the 17th and 18th centuries, contributes scholarship funds toward a student specializing in Baroque musicianship. Tuell will be on location along with the musicians at the Shelbyville Road location across from Mall Saint Matthews. Donations to Bourbon Baroque and the scholarship fund will be gladly accepted at both participating locations.

We’re big fans of the cocktail recipes Ballotin comes up with. Here are some great new recipes:

BLACK CHERRY RUSSIAN
1 1⁄2 oz Ballotin Chocolate
Cherry Cream
1⁄2 oz Vodka
1⁄2 oz Ballotin Original
Chocolate Whiskey
1⁄2 oz Coffee Liqueur
Shake with ice & pour

CHERRY BOMB
1 1⁄2 oz Ballotin Chocolate
Cherry Cream
1⁄2 oz Brandy
2-3 Brandied Cherries
Muddle brandied cherries
Shake all with ice & strain
Top with Cherry Soda
Brandied cherry garnish

CHERRY CHOCOLATINI
2 oz Ballotin Chocolate
Cherry Cream
1⁄2 oz Vanilla Vodka
1⁄2 oz Ballotin Original
Chocolate Whiskey
Chocolate Syrup rim
Shake with ice & strain

GRASSHOPPER CREAM
1 1⁄2 oz Ballotin Chocolate
Cherry Cream
1 1⁄2 oz Ballotin Chocolate
Mint Whiskey
1⁄2 oz whole milk
Shake with ice & strain