Every July, we celebrate America. But what people might not know is that every June, we celebrate the spirit of America. That’s right, June 14 is National Bourbon day, when we toast good ol’ fashioned Kentucky bourbon. In honor of the original American spirit, we stopped by some of Westchester’s best whiskey bars, because, after all, distilled waters run really deep!
Whiskey Creek
152 Mamaroneck Ave, White Plains; www.whiskeycreekwp.com
Opening two years ago, Whiskey Creek has found its niche. This whiskey joint offers flights of whiskeys for patrons to test. For aspiring bourbon aficionados, start with the Beginnings. It’s a brief history of American whiskey in liquid form and features classics like Elijah Craig, Bernheim, and newcomer Larceny Bourbon.
Pour
241 E Main St, Mount Kisco; www.pourmtkisco.com
A bootlegger’s dream, this speakeasy-styled saloon is well known for its liquor library, which is focused on small-batch bourbons and whiskeys. Jazz music and a dram of Medley Brothers Kentucky Bourbon complete the illusion of time-traveling back to the 1920’s.
Bar’Lees
157 Mamaroneck Ave, Mamaroneck; 914.630.7512
Like Pour, Bar’Lees’ focus is on quality liquors and the small-batch brands. You won’t find Jack Daniels or even Maker’s Mark here, but that’s not much to worry about when you have Coppersea New York Excelsior Bourbon behind the bar.
Buns-N-Bourbon
55 Hudson Ave, Peekskill; www. bunsnbourbon.com
As the name implies, Buns-N-Bourbon’s specialty is bun food and brown liquor. Dedicated connoisseurs can join its exclusive Reserve Club, which offers bottles of the brown stuff from their reserved selections. Esteemed brands like Pappy van Winkle are available, and what you don’t finish goes into your personal locker.
For more on Westchester’s bourbon scene, including its history, terms to know, and local-expert recommendations, visit westchestermagazine.com/bourbonday. Cheers!
