(6 March 2020 Update: Subsequent to this post, it was announced that the Old Stone Inn had closed. Mint Julep Experiences has altered its itineraries accordingly, and the updated listing appears below)
The tour company Mint Julep Experiences was founded in 2008 by Sean and Lisa Higgins, specializing in Kentucky’s traditions, history, horse farms, landmarks and culinary scene. The company has been recognized by Condé Nast Traveler as one of the “Best Guided Drinking Tours in America,” and it recently released a full lineup of culinary-inspired tours for 2020.
Topping the list of Mint Julep (culinary) Experiences this year is its Southern Supper Series of five progressive dinners, highlighting Louisville’s “eclectic neighborhoods, hidden gems and all-star chefs’ creations from around the city.”
Here’s the itinerary, with the first tour taking place on March 12. Thanks to Sara “Bar Belle” Havens, director of marketing at Mint Julep Experiences, for this information.
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All-Star Chefs of Bourbon City
March 12, April 16, June 18, Sept. 3 & Oct. 15 | 5:15-9:45 p.m.
Stops: ALEX&NDER, Anoosh Bistro and MilkWood
Inspired by Louisville’s all-star chefs, all of whom have appeared on national cooking shows, this tour features the fare of Dallas McGarity at ALEX&NDER, Anoosh Shariat at Old Stone Inn, and Edward Lee at MilkWood.
Bar-B-Qued
May 28 | 5:30-9:30 p.m.
Stops: 80/20 at Kaelin’s, MilkWood and The Fat Lamb
Barbecue is like bourbon — it’s tasty, but it sure takes time. This progressive dinner includes appetizers at 80/20 at Kaelin’s, a barbecue-inspired entrée at MilkWood, and dessert at The Fat Lamb.
Smokin’
July 16 | 5:30-9:30 p.m.
Stops: Harvest, Fork & Barrel and Le Moo
Enjoy a fun and whimsical food tour celebrating smokin’ fare by visiting three great local neighborhoods at Harvest in NuLu, Fork & Barrel in Clifton and Le Moo in the Highlands.
Sauced
Aug. 13 | 5:30-9:30 p.m.
Stops: Bourbon Barrel Foods, Portage House and Varanese
Everyone knows the secret is in the sauce! Prepare to get saucy as you explore the fine establishments of Bourbon Barrel Foods for appetizers, the Portage House in Jeffersonville for the main course, and Varenese for dessert.
Grilled & Distilled
Nov. 5 | 5:30-9:30 p.m.
Stops: River House, Rye and The Champagnery
This trifecta of Louisville’s top spots will focus on grilling and distilling through fine food and drinks. Enjoy appetizers at the River House, followed by the main course at Rye in NuLu, and then dessert at The Champagnery.
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The fine print: “The cost is $124 per person and includes three dishes with paired cocktails, guided transportation, and tax and restaurant gratuity at each venue. For more information or to make reservations, visit mintjuleptours.com or call 502-583-1433. Tours fill up quickly.”
But there’s even more; other 2020 Mint Julep Experiences food and drink outings include:
Boozy Brunch & Bourbon Bonanza
Every Sunday starting March 8 | 10:30 a.m.-5:15 p.m.
Stops: Old Stone Inn, Jeptha Creed Distillery and Bulleit Distilling Co.
Enjoy a Southern family-style brunch at the quaint Old Stone Inn, complete with Mimosas and Bellinis. Then, visit Jeptha Creed for a build-your-own Bloody Mary bar as well as a full tour and tasting experience. Next, get whisked away to Bulleit Distilling for a full tour and sensory bourbon tasting.
Secrets of Bluegrass Chefs
Select Saturdays | 10 a.m.-noon
Go behind the scenes for two live tapings of “Secrets of Bluegrass Chefs,” featuring top Kentucky chefs along with hosts Tim Laird, Chief Entertaining Officer of Brown-Forman, and Kevin Harned, WAVE-3 Chief Meteorologist.
Further information can be found at the website.
