The Godfathers of Bourbon - Badger Liquor

Bourbon, often referred to as America’s native spirit, owes its rich history and unique character to a handful of pioneering individuals. These “godfathers” of bourbon making not only perfected the art of distillation but also introduced innovative techniques that have shaped the industry. In honor of National Bourbon Heritage Month, let’s raise a glass to each other their stories and see which products have not only tested the hands of time, but are more popular than ever.

Rev. Elijah Craig was a Baptist preacher and entrepreneur who significantly influenced the American whiskey industry. Credited with pioneering the process of aging whiskey in charred oak barrels, Craig’s innovation gave bourbon its distinct flavor profile, characterized by rich, smoky, and caramelized notes. His method set a new standard for whiskey production, leading to the creation of a uniquely American spirit.

Today, the Elijah Craig brand continues to honor its namesake with a range of acclaimed products. The Elijah Craig Small Batch, Toasted Barrel, and Toasted Rye are particularly popular, known for their rich, full-bodied flavors and complex profiles.

Elijah Craig Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey Aged 12 Years

The aromas have a light touch, offering honey and caramel and cocoa in a straightforward, confident balance. The flavours follow…

Elijah Craig 18 Yr

Ready to experience some of the oldest Bourbon barrels in Kentucky? Our 18-Year-Old Bourbon is bottled solely from the contents…

Elijah Craig Barrel Proof Rye

Elijah Craig is credited as the first distiller to age his whiskey in charred oak barrels, earning his place in…

Known as a man of sterling worth and integrity, Jacob Beam was a farmer, miller and pioneer. In the 1780s, he moved his family to the foothills of Kentucky before it was yet a state. Turns out the rich Kentucky soil is perfect for growing corn. He used the excess corn to make whiskey, which would be the start of a bourbon dynasty. His commitment to quality and consistency laid the foundation for one of the most successful bourbon brands in history. Beam’s use of a family yeast strain, which is still in use today, was a significant innovation that ensures the unique flavor of his bourbon.

Jim Beam remains a household name, with products like Jim Beam White Label and Jim Beam Black leading the market. The brand’s Knob Creek line is known for its robust and nuanced flavors.

Jim Beam Black Label Bourbon 7 Year 90 Proof

Jim Beam Black 7 Year Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey—a liquid testament to heritage and mastery, perfected by seven generations of…

Jim Beam Single Barrel Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey

Rich, oaky vanilla with light spiciness. Full-bodied, surprisingly smooth, slightly lingering flavors of oak and vanilla without the burn. Serve:…

Knob Creek Bourbon 12 Year Old Cask Strength

Knob Creek 12 Year Old Cask Strength is matured a full 12 years in the center of the rackhouse for…

Evan Williams is often recognized as Kentucky’s first commercial distiller. He established his distillery on the banks of the Ohio River in 1783, setting a precedent for future bourbon makers. Williams’ meticulous approach to distillation and aging helped elevate the quality of bourbon and set high standards for the industry.

The Evan Williams brand continues to thrive, with the Evan Williams Black Label and Evan Williams Single Barrel being particularly popular. These products are celebrated for their smoothness and rich, caramel notes. The distillery is also known for its seasonal flavors, most recently, Blackberry.

Evan Williams 1783 Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey

Brilliant honey in color. Nose is oaky vanilla, sauteed butter and buttered sweet corn. The taste is semi sweet, oaky…

Evan Williams Single Barrel Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey

Aged 7 to 10 years in new charred oak barrels for fuller flavour. Kentucky’s first distiller. Heritage dates back to…

Evan Williams Blackberry Bourbon

Evan Williams Blackberry is refreshingly juicy and deliciously smooth, blending Kentucky Straight Bourbon with ripe blackberry flavor for a bold…

Meredith Basil Hayden, Sr., was a rye farmer who migrated to Kentucky and began distilling bourbon with a higher rye content than his contemporaries. This innovation resulted in a spicier, more robust flavor profile that set his bourbon apart. Hayden’s approach influenced many future distillers and contributed to the diversity of bourbon styles available today. The Basil Hayden’s we know is a result of Booker Noe’s efforts to create a similar high-rye mash bill.

The Basil Hayden brand is known for its approachable yet complex bourbons. The Basil Hayden Kentucky Straight Bourbon, Toast and the new Cognac Cask Reserve are favorites among bourbon enthusiasts.

Basil Hayden Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey

Basil Hayden, Sr. first began distilling his whiskey almost 200 years ago. This bourbon combines a spicy, peppery flavor with…

Basil Hayden Toast

Basil Hayden Toast is specially crafted in new toast-charred oak barrels impart a unique flavor to this Kentucky straight bourbon…

Basil Hayden Cognac Cask Reserve Bourbon

Basil Hayden’s Cognac Cask Reserve brings together the best of two worlds: authentic Kentucky bourbon craftsmanship and the refined character…