Photos courtesy of Disney Parks
Been to Disney lately? We’re willing to bet that if you don’t have kids of your own to show around, it’s been a while. As if the rides, shows, and characters weren’t enough, Disney Springs just added a whole list of new reasons to make the trek to Florida. From May 1st to June 17th, they’re welcoming park guests to their all new Bourbon Trail, featuring 33 whiskey cocktails and paired small plates at 18 of their amazing restaurants.
These southern-inspired small plates feature bendectine, barbecue, bread pudding, and more, and the Bourbon cocktails range from fresh and fruity to classically crisp. With authentic Kentucky brands like Old Forester, Knob Creek, and more, we’d be happy to make the trip to Florida, even if it is for a taste of home. Check out our four favorite cocktails – and some Bluegrass-inspired dining options to match – below, or click here to see the full list!
1. Old Forester Orlando Pride
First stop, The Boathouse. Order this sweet and citrusy Orlando Pride to beat the heat, and enjoy Old Forester mixed with a homemade blackberry citrus purée. Pair with a plate of crispy calamari – hoisin chili marinated calamari rings lightly fried with a medley of peppers and served with a side of hoisin chili sauce. Tangy and refreshing, this is the perfect waterfront appetizer.
2. Medley Bros. Southern Sangria
Our second stop is Paddlefish, for a tasty sip of Southern Sangria. Featuring Medley Bros. Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, peach liqueur, Tempranillo, and seasonal fruit, the warm whiskey notes of caramel, oak, and spices are followed by touches of stone fruit and a full-bodied red wine that stands up to the Bourbon. Pair with “The Pork Chop,” a Southern classic 10-ounce pork chop served with house-made apple sauce and fresh green beans.
3. Old Forester Trifecta
Next up, Splitsville Dining Room. The Trifecta, a nod to the horse racing history of Kentucky, is a blend of of Old Forester 100, Carpano Antica Vermouth, Benedictine, and Pimento Dram. Spice it up even more with a BBQ Chicken Pizza – smothered in BBQ sauce, topped with marinated grilled chicken, BBQ sauce, smoked gouda, mozzarella, cilantro, and red onion.
4. Knob Creek Fine and Mellow
Finally, have dessert and a nightcap at the famous House of Blues Restaurant & Bar. The Fine and Mellow features Knob Creek Bourbon, St. Elder, lemon juice, strawberry, and rhubarb bitters for a delicately balanced blend, and the Homemade Bread Pudding only doubles down on the Bourbon goodness. Topped with toffee sauce and Bourbon butter, this is one pair that needs no follow up.
