Past Events

After a successful inaugural event, Bourbon Bonanza Benefit soared to new heights in 2016. Determined to outdo themselves, the team expanded its ranks, welcoming Mike Miller, owner of Delilah's Bar (Chicago, IL), as a principal partner. With an eye for excellence, Drew Kulsveen opened the Willett rickhouse, allowing the team to select three extraordinary barrels of whiskey for the event.

A Whiskey Selection for the Ages

• B79 – A 23-Year Wheated Bourbon | An unbelievably special and rare whiskey.
• Barrel #1411 – A 12-Year Bourbon | Hailing from a legendary run of bottles, this instantly became a fan favorite.
• Rye #66 – A 10-Year Rye | The most surprising bottle of the night, with many calling it their favorite young Willett rye ever bottled.

A Culinary Experience Like No Other

Bourbon Bonanza isn't just about whiskey—it's also about world-class cuisine. In 2016, guests were treated to an elevated Southern dining experience crafted by a trio of renowned chefs:

• Host Chef Newman Miller
• Chef Sean Brock
• Chef Tyler Brown

Together, they curated an unforgettable smorgasbord of Southern-inspired delights.

A Surprise for the Ages

Just when the night couldn't get any better, Hollywood legend Bill Murray made a surprise appearance as a guest of Chef Brock. Murray fully embraced the moment—joining the band for a few songs, taking photos, and signing autographs for delighted attendees.

A Night That Made a Difference

Beyond the unforgettable whiskey, food, and special guests, Bourbon Bonanza 2016 made a lasting impact by raising $60,000 for charity. This milestone reinforced the event's mission—to celebrate exceptional bourbon while giving back to the community.

The 2016 Bourbon Bonanza Benefit was truly one for the history books, setting the stage for even greater events to come.

Following the overwhelming success of the 2016 Bourbon Bonanza Benefit, excitement for 2017 reached an all-time high. Expectations were sky-high, and organizers Rachel Miller & Jared Hyman, alongside the team, were ready to deliver an even bigger and better experience for attendees.

An Unforgettable Culinary Experience

The Southern culinary world was once again well represented, with an exceptional lineup of chefs and artisans:

• Chef Newman Miller partnered with Louisville restaurateur Ryan Rogers and Chef Andrew McCabe of Bar Vetti to craft an unforgettable menu.
• Legendary ham producer Dwight Muse of Dakota Hams donated and hand-sliced an aged ham on-site, adding a unique touch to the evening's offerings.

Whiskey Selections That Defined the Night

To match the heightened anticipation, Willett Master Distiller Drew Kulsveen pulled out all the stops, offering three exceptional aged bourbons along with a special young Willett rye available for purchase upon departure:

• Barrel #1483 – 13-Year Bourbon (126 Proof)
• Barrel #1594 – 15-Year Bourbon (116.6 Proof)
• Barrel #3603 – 26-Year Bourbon (112.6 Proof)
• Barrel #235 – 5-Year Rye (116.8 Proof)

A Collector's Dream

Beyond Willett's outstanding selections, Bill Thomas of Jack Rose Dining Saloon and Mike Miller of Delilah's Bar brought an incredible collection of vintage whiskey and one-off bottlings, ensuring a truly one-of-a-kind tasting experience.

Making a Lasting Impact

The 2017 Bourbon Bonanza Benefit was a resounding success, raising $66,500 for the Guthrie Opportunity Center in Bardstown, KY, furthering the event's commitment to giving back to the community.

With another historic night of whiskey, food, and philanthropy, Bourbon Bonanza continued its tradition of excellence, setting the stage for even greater events to come.

By 2018, Bourbon Bonanza had firmly established itself as the premier annual bourbon charity event in the country. Organizers Jared Hyman and Rachel Miller, along with the team of partners, continued to push boundaries, ensuring that each year brought new, exciting experiences while highlighting the best people and businesses in the whiskey community.

A Culinary Showcase Like No Other

Once again, the culinary world was well represented, featuring an exceptional lineup of chefs who crafted an unforgettable menu:

• Chef Newman Miller | Harrison Smith House (Bardstown, KY)
• Chef Andrew McCabe | Bar Vetti (Louisville, KY)
• Chef Todd Stein | Formento's (Chicago, IL)

Legendary ham producer Dwight Muse of Dakota Hams returned, donating and hand-slicing an aged ham on-site for guests, adding a signature Southern touch to the evening.

A Whiskey Selection for the Ages

In keeping with the event's reputation, Willett Master Distiller Drew Kulsveen delivered another incredible lineup of whiskeys, featuring four exceptional aged bourbons and a special young Willett rye available for purchase:

• Barrel #1566 – 16-Year Bourbon (123.8 Proof)
• Barrel #1578 – 16-Year Bourbon (119 Proof)
• Barrel #3676 – 16-Year Bourbon (121 Proof)
• Barrel #9499 – 7-Year Bourbon (123.2 Proof)
• Barrel #97 – 6-Year Rye (117 Proof)

A Collector's Dream

Beyond Willett's extraordinary offerings, Bill Thomas of Jack Rose Dining Saloon and Mike Miller of Delilah's Bar curated an impressive collection of vintage whiskey and rare bottlings, making for an unparalleled tasting experience.

A Night That Gave Back

More than just a celebration of whiskey and food, the 2018 Bourbon Bonanza Benefit made a lasting impact, raising an impressive $70,000 for the Guthrie Opportunity Center in Bardstown, KY.

With another historic evening of world-class bourbon, gourmet cuisine, and philanthropy, Bourbon Bonanza continued to cement its legacy, setting the stage for even greater events in the years to come.

After a brief hiatus, Bourbon Bonanza made its triumphant return in 2022. In late 2021, Jeeps for Joy founder Mike Jasinski teamed up with Quintin Wise to resurrect the event, with Quintin stepping into the role of organizer. To expand Bourbon Bonanza's reach, they partnered with Tommy Patrick of The Ballard Cut to host the first-ever West Coast rendition of Kentucky's premier bourbon charity event.

A Culinary Showcase Like No Other

The culinary lineup was as impressive as ever, featuring a diverse group of chefs who brought their unique styles to the table:

• Chef Newman Miller | Harrison Smith House (Bardstown, KY)
• Chef Rachael Peebles | The Ballard Cut (Seattle, WA)
• Chef Scott Drewo | ChiKo (Washington, D.C.)
• Chef Kevin Smith | Beast & Cleaver (Seattle, WA)

A Whiskey Selection for the Ages

Willett Master Distiller Drew Kulsveen once again delivered an extraordinary lineup of whiskeys, featuring four aged bourbons and three different rye barrels, making for an unforgettable tasting experience:

• Barrel #2142 – 9-Year Bourbon (123.8 Proof)
• Barrel #4380 – 9-Year Bourbon (140.6 Proof)
• Barrel #4786 – 9-Year Bourbon (138.4 Proof)
• Barrel #4778 – 9-Year Bourbon (137.6 Proof)
• Barrel #2453 – 9-Year Rye (118.2 Proof)
• Barrel #2407 – 9-Year Rye (118.0 Proof)
• Barrel #2394 – 9-Year Rye (117.6 Proof)

A Collector's Dream

In addition to Willett’s exceptional offerings, Bill Thomas of Jack Rose Dining Saloon and Mike Miller of Delilah’s Bar joined forces with host Tommy Patrick and The Ballard Cut to curate an extraordinary collection of vintage whiskeys and rare bottlings. Whiskey enthusiast Emerson Shotwell generously volunteered to oversee the silent auction, which featured an impressive array of hard-to-find collectible bottles. Together, their efforts helped make this one of the most highly anticipated whiskey events of the year.

A Night That Gave Back

More than just a celebration of whiskey and food, the 2022 Bourbon Bonanza Benefit set a new fundraising record, raising an incredible $246,000. The proceeds supported The Ballard FC Foundation, Bethany Haven, Guthrie Opportunity Center, and Garage Community Center, making a meaningful impact on multiple communities.

With another historic evening of world-class bourbon, gourmet cuisine, and philanthropy, Bourbon Bonanza renewed its legacy, setting the stage for even greater events in the years to come.

Bourbon Bonanza made its triumphant return in 2022 and it was a smashing success as there were 225 people in attendance and a record $246,000 was raised for charity that day. In 2023, there was a focus to outdo ourselves yet again and make the event even better. Blocking off a street in downtown Ballard for the second consecutive year, we limited the space to 275 guests and threw the best party of the year. Seattle's own, rapper Travis Thompson, played a set that had people walking down the street stopping to listen.

A Culinary Showcase Like No Other

The culinary lineup was as impressive as ever, featuring a diverse group of chefs who brought their unique styles to the table:

• Chef Newman Miller | Harrison Smith House (Bardstown, KY)
• Chef Rachael Peebles | The Ballard Cut (Seattle, WA)
• Chef Ethan Stowell | How to Cook A Wolf (Seattle, WA)
• Chef Kevin Smith | Beast & Cleaver (Seattle, WA)
• Chef Zach Lake l Sailfish (Seattle, WA)

A Whiskey Selection for the Ages

Willett Master Distiller Drew Kulsveen once again delivered an extraordinary lineup of whiskeys, featuring four aged bourbons and three different rye barrels, making for an unforgettable tasting experience:

• Barrel #6737 – 9-Year Bourbon (135.4 Proof)
• Barrel #6464 – 9-Year Bourbon (131.2 Proof)
• Barrel #5260 – 9-Year Bourbon (132 Proof)
• Barrel #2883 – 10-Year Bourbon (136.4 Proof)
• Barrel #9487 – 5-Year Bourbon (126.6 Proof)
• Barrel #5290 – 9-Year Bourbon (142.8 Proof)
• Barrel #2313 – 10-Year Rye (118 Proof)
• Barrel #2444 – 10-Year Rye (121.2 Proof)
• Barrel #6207 – 9-Year Rye (132.2 Proof)

A Collector's Dream

Beyond Willett’s remarkable lineup, the event showcased an exceptional vintage and rare whiskey selection, thoughtfully curated by Bill Thomas of Jack Rose Dining Saloon and Mike Miller of Delilah’s Bar, alongside host Tommy Patrick and The Ballard Cut. Adding to the experience, whiskey aficionado Emerson Shotwell took charge of the silent auction, which featured a coveted assortment of collectible bottles. Thanks to the collaboration of these passionate experts, the event quickly earned a reputation as one of the year’s must-attend gatherings for whiskey lovers.

A Night That Gave Back

More than just an evening of exceptional whiskey and cuisine, the 2023 Bourbon Bonanza Benefit achieved a new milestone, raising an impressive $300,000 for charity. The event's proceeds directly supported The Ballard FC Foundation, Bethany Haven, Guthrie Opportunity Center, and Garage Community Center, helping to make a lasting difference in multiple communities.

With an unforgettable night of fine bourbon, outstanding food, and generosity, Bourbon Bonanza once again lived up to its reputation, solidifying its place as the most exciting and impactful event of the year.

After two incredible years in Seattle, Bourbon Bonanza took its signature event to a new city. Partnering with Mike Miller of Delilah's Bar, the team brought the celebration to Chicago, placing it at the heart of the country's whiskey scene. The West Loop's Bottom Lounge, a music club owned by Miller, provided the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable night. Elevating the experience even further, Unicorn Auctions sponsored the VIP area, ensuring an exclusive and elevated tasting experience.

A Culinary Experience to Remember

This year's chef lineup brought together an impressive mix of culinary talent, each contributing their unique touch to the evening's menu:

• Chef Newman Miller | Harrison Smith House (Bardstown, KY)
• Chef Paul Kahan | One Off Hospitality (Chicago, IL)
• Chef Rob Levitt | Publican Quality Meats (Chicago, IL)
• Chef Greg Wade | Publican Quality Bread (Chicago, IL)
• Chef Joe Spain | The Publican (Chicago, IL)
• Roderick Markus | Rare Tea Cellars (Chicago, IL)

A Whiskey Selection That Stole the Show

As always, Willett Master Distiller Drew Kulsveen curated a stellar selection of whiskeys, including rare bourbons and rye barrels that made for an extraordinary tasting experience:

• Barrel #4297 – 11-Year Bourbon (140.8 Proof)
• Barrel #2153 – 11-Year Bourbon (122.6 Proof)
• Barrel #1036 – 12-Year Bourbon (105.8 Proof) "The Consensus"
• Barrel #2370 – 11-Year Rye (126.4 Proof) "Always Room For One More"
• Barrel #2606 – 7-Year Rye (107.8 Proof) "The Freshman"

A Collector's Paradise

In addition to Willett’s exclusive barrels, Bill Thomas of Jack Rose Dining Saloon, Tommy Patrick and The Ballard Cut, and host Mike Miller of Delilah’s Bar came together to assemble a truly unmatched collection of vintage whiskeys and rare releases. Whiskey enthusiast Emerson Shotwell graciously stepped in to manage the silent auction, which showcased a remarkable selection of hard-to-find collectible bottles. Their combined efforts elevated the event into one of the most eagerly awaited whiskey gatherings of the year.

Raising a Glass for a Cause

More than just a night of indulgence, Bourbon Bonanza 2024 made a lasting impact, raising an incredible $150,000 for charity. Proceeds from the event directly benefited Pilot Light, Bethany Haven, Guthrie Opportunity Center, and Garage Community Center, continuing the tradition of giving back to meaningful causes.

With world-class bourbon, an outstanding culinary experience, and a commitment to philanthropy, Bourbon Bonanza once again exceeded expectations, proving that no matter the city, this event continues to be one of the most exciting whiskey gatherings of the year.

For the first time since 2018, Bourbon Bonanza came home. After years of taking the experience on the road, the country's most anticipated whiskey celebration returned to its roots in Kentucky, the heartland of bourbon. This year's event was hosted at the prestigious Louisville Thoroughbred Society, bringing an unmatched level of elegance, history, and Southern charm to the night.

The homecoming atmosphere was undeniable. Familiar faces, chefs from the South, and a world-class band brought together a night that reminded everyone why Kentucky is the true capital of bourbon culture.

A Culinary Lineup from Nashville's Finest

This year's culinary program took a bold and exciting turn with Strategic Hospitality of Nashville curating the entire menu. Known for concepts such as The Catbird Seat, Merchants, Bastion, and The Patterson House, their team infused the evening with innovative Southern flavor and elevated hospitality.

Guests enjoyed dishes crafted by some of Nashville's most creative culinary minds, combining modern technique with deep-rooted regional ingredients, a perfect pairing for a night centered around Kentucky's most celebrated spirit. The chefs of the event were:

• Chef Newman Miller | Mr Tubs (Bardstown, KY)
• Chef Josh Habiger | Bastion (Nashville, TN)
• Chef Andy Little | Strategic Hospitality (Nashville, TN)
• Chef Lawrence Weeks | Murray's Creole Pub (Louisville, KY)
• Chef Robbie Wilson | Lion's Share (Nashville, TN)
• Roderick Markus | Rare Tea Cellars (Chicago, IL)

A Whiskey Experience Worth the Homecoming

Returning to Kentucky meant one thing: truly extraordinary whiskey.

Willett Master Distiller Drew Kulsveen and the bonanza team once again selected an exclusive lineup of rare barrels and special releases that anchored the tasting experience. Guests savored unique expressions spanning aged bourbon, high-proof rye, and limited selections that could only be found at Bourbon Bonanza.

As always, these curated barrels sparked lively debate, comparisons, and the kind of community storytelling that defines bourbon culture.

• Barrel #1200 – 14-Year Bourbon (114.8 Proof) "10th Anniversary Bourbon Bonanza"
• Barrel #414 – 13-Year Bourbon (124.8 Proof) "Head Of The Table"
• Barrel #742 – 8-Year Bourbon (127 Proof) "French Oak"
• Barrel #9096 – 10-Year Bourbon (108 Proof) "For The People"
• Barrel #4735 – 8-Year Bourbon (119.4 Proof) "Cured Oak"
• Barrel #2339 – 12-Year Rye (122.2 Proof) "Now That's Rye"

A Performance That Set the Tone

Taking the stage for a special performance, The National Parks delivered a powerful, energetic set that filled the Louisville Thoroughbred Society with soaring vocals and emotional depth. Their sound, cinematic, heartfelt, and hopeful, perfectly matched the feeling of bringing Bourbon Bonanza home.

The live performance created a soundtrack that carried through the entire night, giving 2025 one of its most memorable highlights.

A Collector's Haven, Curated by the Best

As in every year, Bourbon Bonanza featured an extraordinary selection of rare bottles and vintage whiskey assembled by some of the most respected names in the industry.

Longtime partners and friends, including collectors, bar owners, and whiskey legends — contributed to a display that had enthusiasts buzzing immediately upon entry. Exclusive bottles, once-in-a-lifetime pours, and charitable auction items made the 2025 collection one of the deepest and most impressive in Bourbon Bonanza history.

Raising the Bar for a Cause

The spirit of generosity remained at the center of the evening. Through the online auction, hosted by VIP Sponsor, Unicorn Auctions, and philanthropic support of attendees, Bourbon Bonanza continued its commitment to making a meaningful impact on communities in need.

2025's return to Kentucky wasn't just a celebration, it was a statement of giving, tradition, and community. The event raised $500,000 and proceeds went to local charities, Bethany Haven and Guthrie Opportunity Center. Bourbon Bonanza also contributed to the Big Wave Project, Chicago Blackhawks Foundation and Pelotonia in 2025.

For more than a decade, Bourbon Bonanza had been built around one unforgettable gathering each year.

In 2026, everything changed.

For the first time in its history, Bourbon Bonanza expanded into a full year of events: four regional gatherings across the country followed by the main event in Louisville. What started in 2015 as friends sharing extraordinary whiskey for a good cause had grown into a national community connected by whiskey, food, hospitality, and giving back.

Four Cities. Four Regional Bonanzas.

The 2026 season began by taking Bourbon Bonanza back into the communities that helped shape it.

Regional events were held in Bardstown, Washington, D.C., Seattle, and Chicago, each bringing together the local whiskey community with longtime Bourbon Bonanza friends and partners.

The regional format allowed each city to have its own personality while staying true to what has always defined the Bonanza: rare whiskey meant to be opened and shared, incredible food, intimate experiences, and raising money for causes that matter.

It was also a return to some important places in Bourbon Bonanza history. Washington, D.C. was where the first gathering took place in 2015. Bardstown was home to the early Whiskey Pig years. Seattle helped relaunch the event in 2022 and 2023. Chicago hosted the 2024 Bonanza.

For the first time, all of those chapters became part of the same Bourbon Bonanza year.

Back to Louisville

Everything led to August 29, 2026, when Bourbon Bonanza returned to the Louisville Thoroughbred Society.

By then, Bonanza weekend had become much more than a four-hour event. The weekend consisted of several events and gatherings leading up to the main event. Saturday night brought everyone together at the Louisville Thoroughbred Society for the 2026 Bourbon Bonanza Benefit.

Hundreds of whiskey enthusiasts traveled from across the country, and even internationally, to experience a night built around some of the best whiskey, food, cigars, music, and hospitality the Bonanza had ever assembled.

At the center of it all was Willett Distillery, Bourbon Bonanza's longtime whiskey partner.

Drew Kulsveen and the Willett team once again helped create a whiskey experience worthy of the occasion. Rare and vintage bottles covered the tables, longtime partners arrived with bottles pulled from personal collections, and guests were encouraged to do something increasingly uncommon with truly great whiskey: open it and share it.

The Chefs

Food has been every bit as important to Bourbon Bonanza as the whiskey, and 2026 brought together another remarkable group of chefs and culinary personalities:

• Chef Newman Miller — Bardstown, KY. One of the original architects of Bourbon Bonanza returned once again, continuing a culinary tradition that stretches back to the earliest Bardstown events.
• Chef Scott Drewno — Washington, D.C. A longtime friend of the Bonanza and one of D.C.'s most respected chefs brought his signature energy and cooking back to the event.
• Chef Sam Jett — Nashville, TN. Sam Jett joined the 2026 culinary lineup, adding another distinct voice to a group of chefs brought together from across the country for one night in Louisville.
• Chef Jesse Barber — Los Angeles, CA. The three-time James Beard Award nominee brought thoughtful, ingredient-driven cooking and serious culinary pedigree to the Bonanza.
• Snuff Mill. Freshly shucked oysters created a live culinary experience right in the middle of the action.
• Roderick Markus — Rare Tea Cellar, Chicago. A longtime friend and fixture of Bourbon Bonanza, Roderick once again arrived with the kind of ingredients, flavors, and culinary treasures that are difficult to find anywhere else.

HAPPY LANDING Takes the Stage

As glasses were filled and the night hit its stride, HAPPY LANDING took the stage.

Their high-energy performance gave the 2026 Bonanza its soundtrack, turning the Louisville Thoroughbred Society from a whiskey tasting into a full-blown celebration.

It was exactly what Bourbon Bonanza has always tried to create: a room where a serious whiskey collector, a chef, a distiller, a first-time attendee, and someone who traveled halfway around the world could all end up standing next to each other singing along.

The People Behind the Bottles

The whiskey experience was once again strengthened by the bars, collectors, and friends who have helped define Bourbon Bonanza over the years:

• Bill Thomas and Jack Rose Dining Saloon represented Washington, D.C.
• Mike Miller and Delilah's brought Chicago.
• Tommy Patrick and The Ballard Cut represented Seattle.
• Newman and Rachel Miller and Mr. Tubs represented Bardstown.

Together with Willett and bottles contributed from private collections and participating partners, the result was the kind of tasting lineup that cannot be recreated by buying a ticket to a traditional whiskey festival.

Our 2026 Partners

None of it happens without the people and brands willing to believe in what Bourbon Bonanza is trying to accomplish.

Willett Distillery continued its longstanding role as the whiskey partner at the heart of the event.

Unicorn Auctions returned as the VIP and auction partner, bringing an extraordinary selection of whiskey to the VIP experience while powering an online auction that would become the largest in Bourbon Bonanza history.

Binder's Stash Whiskey returned as a key partner and part of the weekend's whiskey experience.

Longtime Bourbon Bonanza partners Jack Rose Dining Saloon, Delilah's, The Ballard Cut, and Mr. Tubs once again brought their people, bottles, history, and hospitality. Rare Tea Cellar returned with Roderick Markus. Davidoff Cigars brought back the cigar experience. Bien Elevé provided wine and champagne. Rivergreen Cocktails poured gin-based ready-to-drink cocktails. Jeff Knott, owner of Tartan House in Louisville, was the guest bartender for the VIP section. Snuff Mill added another layer to the culinary experience by shucking oysters for guests throughout the event.

These partnerships are not simply logos on a banner. The people behind them show up, bring bottles, cook food, pour whiskey, donate experiences, host guests, and help create the Bonanza.

An Auction Unlike Anything Before It

The 2026 Unicorn Auctions online auction pushed Bourbon Bonanza into completely new territory.

Collectors bid on extraordinary bottles and experiences, including rare Pappy Van Winkle, Michter's 20 Year, an Old Rip Van Winkle 23 Year decanter, private whiskey experiences, travel, sporting experiences, and an opportunity to select a barrel with Willett.

By the time bidding closed Saturday night, the auction alone had raised more than $650,000. It was the largest auction in Bourbon Bonanza history.

But the number only tells part of the story. Every bid represented money that could ultimately be put back into the communities that have supported Bourbon Bonanza. The regional model allowed the organization to support causes in the cities where events were held while continuing its longstanding commitment to organizations in Nelson County, Kentucky.

More Than an Event

2026 changed what Bourbon Bonanza could be.

One annual gathering became five Bourbon Bonanza events in five cities. A single night became an entire weekend. Friends who had been part of the event for more than a decade stood alongside people attending for the first time.

Bottles that could have remained unopened in collections were poured. Chefs cooked. Bands played. Cigars were lit. Stories were told. And an auction raised more than $650,000 for the mission.

But the best measure of Bourbon Bonanza has never been the rarity of the bottles on the table or the amount raised at the end of the night. It's the people standing around the table.

Great whiskey. Great food. Great causes. And one hell of a community.

2026 was Bourbon Bonanza at a new level.