American Spirit
Celebrate National Bourbon Day on Saturday, June 14 by “Rollin’ on the River”!
Sip, sip, hooray! Are you ready for National Bourbon Day this Saturday?
America’s River Roots is raising a glass to Kentucky’s most iconic export with a newly-launched addition to its five-day festival: the Kentucky Bourbon Experience presented by Fifth Third Bank.
Housed under a sprawling 200-foot tent in Newport, the immersive experience is divided into three spaces: the Bourbon Bottle Shop & Bazaar, the Bourbon Experience, and the Merchant’s Club. Together, they offer guests a full pour of the rich stories, people and traditions behind the Commonwealth’s famed spirit. From curated tastings to a speakeasy with a view, the Bourbon Experience is designed for both aficionados and curious sippers alike.
“We designed the Kentucky Bourbon Experience to be a full sensory journey into the heart of bourbon culture,” said Amy Tobin, Bourbon Curator for America’s River Roots. “From the moment you step into the tent, you’ll be immersed in the stories, craftsmanship and flavor that make Kentucky bourbon world-renowned."
America’s River Roots has named New Riff Distilling as the Official Bourbon of the festival. Known for their award-winning spirits, New Riff brings a distinctly local flavor to the festival. With deep ties to Greater Cincinnati and the Northern Kentucky community, New Riff is a natural partner for the experience that blends craftsmanship, culture and regional pride under one expansive tent. Guests will have the chance to sample a variety of New Riff’s offerings, including the signature cocktail of America's River Roots, Rollin' on The River, made with New Riff Bottled in Bond Bourbon, lemon juice and root beer.
The distillery will also host the New Riff Distilling Bourbon Tasting & History Sightseeing Cruise on the iconic Steamboat NATCHEZ, for an immersive bourbon experience during the festiva. This guided tasting features a bold lineup of New Riff favorites, including their signature Bottled In Bond Bourbon and Bottled In Bond Rye. As the flavors unfold, so does the story, presented onboard by American Legacy Tours. Whether you're a seasoned whiskey enthusiast or just beginning your journey, you’ll walk away with a new appreciation for what’s in your glass and the history behind it. Guests must be 21 and over.
Tastings & More
Over the course of the festival, attendees will enjoy 15 scheduled bourbon tastings featuring some of the industry's top names, including Angels Envy, Augusta Distillery, Boone County Distilling, Bardstown Bourbon, Green River Distilling, Ingram Distillery, Old Forester, Wenzel Distillery, Willow Run Custom Bourbon, Woodford Reserve, and New Riff Distilling, the Official Bourbon of America's River Roots.
With more distillers joining the lineup this summer, there’s even more reason to secure tickets early!
The Bottle Shop Bazaar
Powered by The Party Source, the Official Bourbon Retailer of America’s River Roots, this open marketplace will be a must-visit for anyone looking to sample, buy or discover new favorites. Distillers and merchants will offer bottles, gifts and bourbon-inspired goods.
The Bourbon Experience
This ticketed, 90-minute adventure takes guests on a journey into the heart of bourbon culture. Guests can explore bourbon blending, create their own custom bottles, or even select from single barrel offerings. Each session is crafted to deliver something truly special.
The Merchant’s Club
Tucked away from the crowds, this speakeasy-style lounge offers a refined escape. Sip handcrafted bourbon cocktails while enjoying sweeping views of the river and relaxed luxury.
A Festival Within a Festival
Outside the tent, the celebration continues on the Kentucky Boardwalk at the Ovation, where guests can stroll and sip their way through the B-Line Speakeasy, River Roots Café, and the River Roots Beer Garden. Expect bold bites, regional sips and bourbon-inspired menus.
The Bourbon Experience is just one part of the music, cusine and culture that will be represented at America's River Roots, Oct. 8–12, on Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky's riverfront. The festival is a celebration of the vibrant culture of America’s river cities, honoring their impact on our nation. The fusion of food, beer, bourbon, river cruises, education and more make America's River Roots a signature event of America 250.
Tickets for the Bourbon Experience will be available by the end of June. Visit AmericasRiverRoots.com to sign up for updates and be the first to reserve your spot!