Bourbon whiskey is more than a drink—it’s a symbol of American heritage, craftsmanship, and regional pride. From its storied origins in the American South to the innovative distilleries of the Mountain West, it continues to captivate enthusiasts with its rich flavors and cultural significance. At Bird’s Nest at Blackbird, your premier Bourbon Bar in Wake Forest, NC, we celebrate these qualities and offer an ever-expanding selection that’s designed to satisfy the tastes of both casual drinkers and dedicated connoisseurs.
America’s Native Spirit
This iconic American whiskey traces its roots to the late 18th century, with its name likely inspired by Bourbon County, Kentucky, or Bourbon Street in New Orleans—both honoring the French House of Bourbon. In 1964, Congress officially recognized it as a “distinctive product of the United States,” solidifying its status as the nation’s native spirit. Though Kentucky remains closely associated with its production, this uniquely American liquor can be legally made anywhere in the U.S., allowing for regional styles and a wide range of flavor profiles.
What Makes It Distinct?
Bourbon’s unique character is the result of strict production standards that set it apart from other spirits:
- Mash Bill: Must contain at least 51% corn, contributing to its signature sweetness.
- Distillation: Distilled to no more than 160 proof and entered into barrels at no more than 125 proof.
- Aging: Aged in new, charred American oak barrels, which impart flavors of vanilla, caramel, and spice.
- Bottling: Bottled at a minimum of 80 proof without any additives.
These regulations ensure that every bottle delivers a consistent, authentic experience, with a smooth, mellow taste and a rich amber hue—qualities you’ll find in every pour at Bird’s Nest at Blackbird.
Why We Love It
The appeal lies in its versatility and depth, and it’s easy to see why it’s so loved by many:
- Flavor Complexity: The interplay of corn sweetness, oak aging, and optional grains like rye or wheat creates a spectrum of flavors—from spicy and bold to soft and smooth.
- Cultural Significance: It’s woven into American history and traditions, from frontier times to modern-day celebrations like the Kentucky Derby, where the mint julep is a classic.
- Craftsmanship: The meticulous process—from selecting grains to aging in charred barrels—reflects a dedication to quality that resonates with both connoisseurs and casual drinkers.
Spotlight on WhistlePig Whiskey
This month, we’re raising a glass to a true standout in American whiskey: WhistlePig. Known for pushing the boundaries of what rye and bourbon can be—while staying rooted in tradition—they have built a reputation for producing some of the most coveted high-rye and bourbon expressions on the market. If you’re after bold character, deep flavor, and cutting-edge craftsmanship, this Vermont-based distillery more than delivers.
Founded on a farm in Shoreham, Vermont, they began with a simple goal: to take rye whiskey—America’s original spirit—to its full potential. What started with aging Canadian stock in American oak barrels has since evolved into a grain-to-glass operation where they now grow their own grain, distil, and age everything on-site. The result? Whiskeys that are complex, bold, and rooted in a deep respect for both history and innovation. From their award-winning 10 Year Straight Rye, known for its spicy depth and smooth finish, to limited-edition expressions like the Boss Hog series, WhistlePig continues to impress whiskey lovers and critics alike. Their emphasis on quality aging, experimental cask finishes, and farm-to-bottle ethos sets them apart in a crowded field.
Whether you’re new to rye or a seasoned whiskey enthusiast, WhistlePig is a name worth knowing—and sipping. Be among the first to experience their bold new 10-Year Rye Whiskey, freshly released and already making waves. This latest expression showcases the distillery’s signature balance of spice, sweetness, and smooth complexity.
Help Us Stock the Right Labels
We want to be your go-to bourbon bar in Wake Forest, NC, and we’re committed to bringing you a curated selection of bottles that goes beyond the basics. While we’ll always carry the crowd favorites you know and love, we’re also here to connect you with those hard-to-find labels, cult classics, and limited-edition releases you’ve been searching for. If there’s a rare bottle or specific label you’ve been hoping to try, reach out to us and we’ll track it down. We genuinely care about delivering a bourbon selection that aligns with your tastes and keeps things exciting. Your feedback helps guide us as we continue to build a collection that’s not only worth sipping, but also worth talking about.
Upcoming Events
May 7th (6-9 PM): Silent Book Club – Unwind with a quiet evening of reading and good company at our monthly Silent Book Club. Bring a book, sip on a crafted cocktail, and enjoy a peaceful ambiance. After the reading session, stay and chat with fellow book lovers in the lounge.
May 8th (5-10 PM): Vinyl Night – Bring your favorite records and experience the authentic sound of vinyl at Vinyl Night, happening every second Thursday of the month. Enjoy great music and expertly crafted cocktails in good company.
Bourbon-Inspired Signature Sips
The Fairy Ring
A bright and earthy twist on a spring classic. Fresh lemon and muddled strawberry meet the bold character of Redwood Empire bourbon, rounded out with mint for a forest-fresh finish.
Ingredients:
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- 1½ oz Redwood Empire Lost Monarch Blend Bourbon
- ½ oz fresh lemon juice
- ½ oz simple syrup
- 6 fresh mint leaves
- 2 fresh strawberries
Bourbon Barrel-Aged Manhattan
A rich, slow-aged riff on a timeless favorite—crafted with Elijah Craig Rye, currently aging in our oak bourbon barrel located at the end of the bar. Served stirred and spirit-forward, finished with a Luxardo cherry.
Ingredients:
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- Elijah Craig Rye Bourbon
- House-aged in a bourbon barrel
- Classic Manhattan components, refined over time
Whiskey Awaits – Stop By Soon
At Bird’s Nest at Blackbird, we’re not just a bourbon bar in Wake Forest, NC—we’re a gathering place for those who appreciate the richness of this fine spirit’s legacy and the excitement of discovering something new. Whether you’re here for an old favorite or searching for the next great pour, we’re committed to offering you an experience that reflects the craftsmanship and culture that bourbon—and rye—represent. So, stop by, enjoy a drink, and share your bourbon wishlist with us—we can’t wait to continue this journey with you!