A Bourbon Lover’s Guide to the Trail

By Caleb Patton   |   Photography By Sara Reeves

As the seasons change and the call of nature morphs from vibrant emeralds to the soft palates of burgundy, chartreuse and terracotta, we seek warmth and comfort. An evening spent by the campfire in the crisp air of autumn calls for a classic cocktail with a slight seasonal twist. Enter Arkansas-made Rocktown Distillery and its Arkansas Rice Straight Bourbon Whiskey.

The velvety blend of burnt, buttery popcorn folds into Rocktown’s Bourbon Barrel Aged Maple Syrup, then cut by familiar Angostura bitters and finished with a simple orange peel. As the firelight illuminates this liquid amber concoction, you’ll be warmed both inside and out by this Campfire Old-Fashioned.

Made possible by Rocktown’s partnership with Isbell Farms, a multigenerational rice grower in Central Arkansas, the bourbon quality is unlike any you’ve ever had. Rich, smooth and light, you’ll want to keep sipping this one slowly so it never ends.

“When I pick a spirit, the first place I start is the notes of what I’m tasting. I’m looking for those classic fall flavors, with a touch of sweet and a little twist,” says Abby Rogne, the new assistant bar manager at Rocktown. Creating a classic, easily “batchable” cocktail may seem simple, but finding that balance of flavors is like wearing the right pair of shoes for the trail.

Without preparation and thought, you’ll be left wallowing in a subpar trek and treat. So, while you wistfully gaze at the stars, warmed by both drink and firelight, you can look forward to more in the following years with Rocktown, including its latest batch barreled with Arkansas-made staves sourced from our backyards.

The cooler weather’s calling. It’s time to lace up, pack out and swing by Rocktown Distillery on your way to the trail for a bottle of its Rice Straight Bourbon. Stay warm, friends.

Campfire Old-Fashioned

Ingredients:
• 2 ounces Rocktown Rice Straight Bourbon Whiskey
• ¼ ounce Rocktown Bourbon Barrel Aged Maple Syrup
• 2 dashes Angostura bitters
• Orange peel

Directions:
• Combine your syrup, whiskey, and bitters in an airtight container.
• Once you’ve set up camp, pour into a cup and stir well.
• Garnish with an orange peel and enjoy a refreshing fruit snack.