Winter 2026 Issue Preview
What You’ll Find Inside: Fall Issue 2025
Happy New Year! Winter is here, and there’s nothing better than a glass of Bourbon to take the chill out of the air. So pour yourself a glass, settle into your favorite chair by the fireplace, and enjoy the Winter issue of Bourbon+ magazine. We have a lot in store.
For our cover story, The Ariston’s Paul Pearse walks us through the perfect winter pairings of cigars and whiskey. Pearse talks about pairing 101, matching intensity levels, and contrasting flavor profiles, making sure neither the intensity of he cigar nor the proof of whiskey dominates or takes away from the other. “We really specialize in the experience of it and the culture of it,” he tells us. “And then we really focus on some of the higher-end products.” Pearse shares his go-to cigar and pairs it with a whiskey that enhances its notes. If you’re looking for that perfect match this winter, don’t miss Pearse’s guide to pairing on page 54.
As you flip through the issue, you’ll see stories that celebrate whiskey culture from an inside look at how distillers are using sound and vibration to shape the flavor in The 45Hz Rickhouse, and a look at Drake White’s Three Chord Storyteller bourbon in A Spirit for Memorable Experiences. This issue also explores the craftsmanship behind Kingfish Leatherworks’ beautifully-made whiskey accessories as we take you through the Trail Hotel, the first and only bourbon-centric hotel located in Bardstown, Tennessee. Rounding out the issue, A Celebration 200 Years in the making takes a look at America’s Bicentennial on July 4, 1976—a dark time for “purveyors of America’s official spirit, as bourbon had fallen out of favor.”
Additionally, I wanted to bring your attention to a benefit of being a Bourbon+ member. Bourbon+ recently hosted a winter cocktail–making class at Nashville’s Liquor Lab, welcoming our members to a night of firsthand mixology. Led by master bartender Marie Sanudo, guests were able to create three seasonal cocktails—Apple-Sage Bonfire, Remember the Titans, and Smoked Cherry—as they enjoyed barbecue bites, private access to the Lab, and a festive photo booth. By the end of the evening, attendees left with new recipes and a deeper appreciation for whiskey’s versatility. (You can check out the event on page 18 and the recipes on page 30)
And not only that, Bourbon+ members had the opportunity to be a part of a tasting and distillery tour at The Company Distillery in Townsend, Tennessee. Master Distiller Jeff Arnett led the event, speaking with guests about his craft, his legacy, and his mission to introduce more people to Company Distilling’s spirits. There are a lot more fun experiences where that came from. Keep up to date on upcoming events at Bourbonplus.com and our socials.
As we head into the new year, I hope this issue brings you closer to the whiskey world. Bourbon+ is looking forward to bringing you the people, the stories, and the science behind the bottle. Here’s to a season of great pours, great stories, and great company. Enjoy!
Photo Courtesy of The Ariston
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