The holidays are upon us, and alongside the twinkling lights and festive cheer, a peculiar trend is gaining traction: the bourbon advent calendar. Yes, you read that right. Someone—and we use “someone” loosely—has meticulously planned out a daily dose of bourbon for 25 days. You can witness the full, slightly bewildering experience here: .
This isn’t your grandfather’s whiskey tasting. It’s a commitment – a 25-day journey into the increasingly elaborate world of premium spirits. The project, dubbed “Whiskey Wednesday,” has captured the attention of bourbon enthusiasts and, frankly, raised a few eyebrows, but it’s also a fascinating reflection of a larger shift occurring within the spirits industry.
Why You Should Care: The Rise of Curated Experiences
Let’s be honest, most of us aren’t meticulously tracking every drop of whiskey we consume. We enjoy a dram or two, perhaps during a festive gathering or a quiet evening. However, Chris Queen’s ambitious project sheds light on a larger trend: the growing demand for curated experiences within the spirits industry. *Whisky Advocate* notes that the shift towards niche releases and personalized offerings is only accelerating. This means a constant influx of limited-edition bottles, exclusive tastings, and highly sought-after expressions – all of which translate into more choices (and a potentially significantly larger wallet) for the discerning bourbon enthusiast. The core of this shift isn’t just about drinking more bourbon; it’s about the *experience* of drinking it, the stories behind it, and the exclusivity associated with possessing it.
Beyond the sheer volume of options, this venture perfectly illustrates the level of investment people are willing to make in their hobbies. And let’s be real, whiskey is undeniably an indulgent pastime. The allure lies not just in the taste, but in the ritual, the appreciation of craftsmanship, and the feeling of sophistication that often accompanies the enjoyment of a fine spirit. Queen’s project taps directly into this desire for elevated experiences.
Meet the Curator: Chris Queen & His Bourbon Pilgrimage
At the heart of this operation is Chris Queen, a regular contributor to BourbonBlog.com. Known for his meticulous approach to bourbon tasting and unwavering dedication to all things bourbon, Queen has taken his passion to a whole new level. He’s partnered with a variety of distillers and brands – including some smaller, independent operations – to assemble a selection that spans from familiar, widely available releases like Woodford Reserve and Maker’s Mark, to smaller-batch, limited-edition offerings from boutique distillers. Queen isn’t just picking out bottles; he’s crafting a bespoke holiday bourbon experience—whether you actively seek it out or not. This includes detailed notes, tasting profiles, and even background information on the origins of each spirit. His dedication, bordering on obsession, highlights the intense appreciation for bourbon that’s driving this trend. He’s essentially a modern-day spirit merchant, curating a collection based on a deeply held passion.
Queen’s approach is intensely detailed. He provides a meticulous breakdown of each bottle, including tasting notes, production methods, and the history of the distillery. This level of information demonstrates a desire for knowledge and a genuine appreciation for the artistry involved in creating bourbon.
The project’s scope extends beyond simply drinking the bourbon; it’s about documenting the journey. Queen’s daily posts chronicle the tasting experiences, offering detailed observations and engaging with his audience. This creates a sense of community around the adventure, further fueling the trend of seeking out unique and shared experiences.
Is It a Brilliant Innovation or an Exercise in Over-the-Top Indulgence?
The question remains: is this a brilliant innovation or an exercise in over-the-top indulgence? Perhaps a bit of both. While some might dismiss Queen’s calendar as a slightly absurd spectacle, it undoubtedly raises awareness of the growing sophistication within the bourbon market. It’s a demonstration of the industry’s willingness to cater to a segment of consumers who are willing to invest significantly in their passion.
Furthermore, the project highlights the increasing complexity of the spirits landscape. Distillers are releasing more limited-edition expressions, focusing on unique aging techniques, and emphasizing terroir – the influence of the environment on the spirit’s flavor. This proliferation of options, coupled with Queen’s calendar, creates a sense of urgency among collectors and enthusiasts.
One thing’s certain – the future of whiskey is undoubtedly getting more complicated (and potentially more expensive) – one tiny bottle at a time. The “Whiskey Wednesday” calendar isn’t just about drinking bourbon; it’s a glimpse into a future where spirits are increasingly valued not just for their taste, but for the stories they tell and the experiences they provide.
