Bourbon
September 2022
Craft authentic bourbon experiences with Libbey
Today’s drinkers are craving authenticity in their glass – and with its storied history deeply rooted in American grit and individualism, bourbon never fails to satisfy.
From the rise of the craft cocktail movement to DIY culture, demand for quality spirits like bourbon is at an all-time high among consumers. As a result, production of America’s only native spirit has been booming for the past 20 years, during which the number of barrels rolling out of distilleries nearly quadrupled.
And though Kentucky remains the birthplace of classic American bourbon, other places are staking a claim on the spirit, with regional styles growing in popularity. These local craft bourbons – from the Southwest, New York and Pacific Northwest – capture the unique flavors, botanicals and “terroir” of each region.
Bourbon makers are also experimenting with new blends and flavors, as well as kosher and organic varieties. Secondary barreling into wine or spirit casks adds new complexity. These creative variations can act as a “bridge product” for new consumers to enter the market.
These new consumers include young people, women and people of color who are just discovering the world of bourbon. The number of Black or African-American bourbon drinkers is up 22 percent since 2013, while Asian bourbon drinkers rose 36 percent in the same period.
Looking to capture this growing market and create authentically American bourbon experiences at your bar or restaurant? Explore Libbey’s selection of glasses and tasters, crafted to reveal the complexity of each bottle. No matter how your guests enjoy their bourbon, there’s something for every type of drinker – from the true novice to the seasoned taster:
Neat
For those who prefer bourbon in its purest form, these glasses are specially designed to direct aromas to the nose. Glasses like the Kentucky Bourbon Trail taster – a collaboration with the state’s master distillers – enhance the rich flavors of bourbon with a wide bowl and narrow neck.
Our picks: Kentucky Bourbon Trail, Whiskey Tumbler Special
On the rocks
Just a few cubes of ice can make a bourbon’s flavor blossom. Our balanced, beautiful rocks glasses let fine spirits and cocktails speak for themselves.
And for on-the-rocks drinks, doubled old fashioned glasses offer the swing and swagger of the golden age of cocktails. Heavy bottomed, chiseled or sleek and simple, these glasses never go out of style – just like a good old fashioned.
Our picks: Modernist Rocks, Hobstar Double Old Fashioned
Up
Shaken or stirred? Elevate the beauty of bourbon in tall, slender stemware. These small capacities are perfect for showcasing premium spirits and shaking up your creative mixology in bourbon-forward drinks like Manhattans and sidecars.
Our picks: Speakeasy Cocktail, 1924 Coupe
Want to see more? Explore our complete collection of bourbon glassware by downloading our bourbon brochure.
