Food & Drink

Lessons in Bourbon from I.W. Harper

Timeless Advice from a Legendary Gentleman

By UrbanDaddy Staff ·
None
Dad.

He’s always there for you.

Though, come to think of it... the same can be said for bourbon.

Bourbon like I.W. Harper, the award-winning heritage brand that took root in 1867 and through hard work and dedication to quality became one of the most acclaimed, iconic and downright stylish bourbons around.

And now, after a two-decade hiatus, I.W. Harper has returned home. So in the spirit of Father’s Day, Mr. Harper himself would like to share some timeless fatherly advice on his favorite subject.

Heed it accordingly.

Bourbon is better when shared.
And it works both ways. Pour a couple fingers for your friend, and watch them return the favor. It’s the beautiful, bourbon-y cycle of life.

“Dress to impress” also applies to whiskey.
Nothing enhances the gravitas of good bourbon like pouring it from a crystal decanter. It’s understated on the one hand, a power move on the other.

Rocks glasses are worth investing in.
A solid heft. A fine circumference. A happy little clink when your glass touches that of the person across from you. These are but some of the pleasures you can look forward to.

Taste it neat first.
You don’t douse a Peter Luger steak in A.1. The distiller made it this way for a reason. A delicious, delicious reason. So let’s trust the guy who’s tasked with perfecting its flavor.

Be precise with your ice.
If you elect to cool down your bourbon, opt for large cubes only—the small stuff melts too fast and will dilute the drink.

Respect the classics.
Your tried-and-true cocktails like the Old Fashioned and the Manhattan are a good place to start, as each offers something unique without masking the whole reason we’re here. Which is the whiskey.

The best things in life take time.
Same goes for enjoying your bourbon. Sip slowly to experience all of the flavors and nuances within. This isn’t a race, and finishing first just leaves you with an empty glass.
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