For Traditions New and Old

In recent years, Friendsgiving has taken root as a much-anticipated celebration in addition to or in place of the traditional Thanksgiving feast. It’s a winning option, particularly in circumstances when people find themselves far away from family on the official holiday. Friendsgiving has become so popular, in fact, that the Emily Post Institute has received questions about the proper etiquette for hosting these increasingly celebrated gatherings. The good news is, these ad hoc get-togethers take on a more stress-free, unforced tone, often taking place in the form of potluck dinners and backyard barbecues—depending on the weather, of course.

If you’re planning to host a fun, intimate gathering with your closest friends, consider a Friendsgiving complete with Basil Hayden’s Bourbon. The unique bourbon pairs perfectly with plenty of accoutrements on your holiday table. And its flavorful spirit spotlights the sweet, smooth texture of corn balanced by the addition of rye for added spice on the finish. Aged for more than two years in charred American oak barrels, this straight bourbon balances delicate notes of ripe summer peaches, brown sugar, vanilla, black pepper, and spice. Serve it alongside a Texas-sized Fount Board & Table antipasti platter brimming with meats, cheeses, fruits, nuts, and vegetables. The smooth, silky texture, and delicate nuances of Basil Hayden’s make it an ideal match for a flavorful grazing spread at this year’s Friendsgiving festivities.

One way to spruce up a laid-back potluck experience is to rally your guests into a friendly cocktail competition with Basil Hayden’s as the centerpiece for both classic and creative concoctions. Encourage guests to bring a few of their favorite mixers, but be sure to stock a few key ingredients such as lemons, oranges, bitters, vermouth, and Luxardo cherries to help get the creative juices flowing.

Whether enjoyed as part of a friendly competition or simply poured neat or over ice, Basil Hayden’s is a perfect match for your Friendsgiving festivities, especially when paired with the rich, smoky flavors of an artisan charcuterie board.