Biblio Bacchanal: The Search for America’s Best Whiskey

Calling all whiskey lovers! Join The Center for Fiction for an exploration of American whiskey with Colin Spoelman, the Co-Founder of Kings County Distillery and author of The Bourbon Drinker’s Companion, and Clay Risen, New York Times reporter, whiskey expert, and author of American Rye.

Whiskey made in the United States acquires a distinct identity depending on its region, distilling processes, and more. Spoelman’s book investigates the nuances of this iconic spirit, traversing the West Coast’s craft scene, learning from emerging distillers in the South, and revisiting one of the country’s oldest distilleries—Buffalo Trace in Frankfort, Kentucky. Throughout, he brings an analytical perspective to the search for America’s best whiskey that may refine your own palate.

At the event, Risen will join Spoelman for a conversation and readings from The Bourbon Drinker’s Companion, interspersed with tastings of four varieties of Kings County whiskey.