BBQ & Barrels, set for May 8-9, 2026, in downtown Owensboro, KY, is a celebration of the city’s deep-rooted traditions in barbecue and bourbon. The “Barrels” portion highlights Owensboro’s historic connection to Kentucky bourbon, showcased through a ticketed bourbon experience at the Owensboro Convention Center. This ticketed event offers the ultimate bourbon experience at an unbeatable value, combining the chance to savor exceptional bourbon with a delightful BBQ culinary adventure. Over 40 distillers are expected to participate in this year’s BBQ and Barrels. Here are a few out of the many that you can experience:
Green River Distilling Company
The 10th oldest registered distillery in Kentucky, Green River was founded by J.W. McCulloch in 1885, and its whiskey was world-renowned before fire and Prohibition relegated it to history. The Green River distillery has been revived to its former glory, and Green River Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, the first Green River Bourbon available after more than a century, is now distilled, aged, and bottled on the same ground as it was in 1885.
Western Kentucky Distilling Company
This distiller is operated by 8th Generation Kentucky Distiller master Jacob Call, who uses generations of distilling knowledge in a modern distillery. Western Kentucky Distilling Company is one of Kentucky’s most advanced distilleries. BBQ and Barrels is the one place where you can try this unique bourbon because they haven’t hit the shelves yet!
Maker’s Mark
Maker’s Mark began with one family’s quest to create a bourbon they enjoyed drinking and sharing with friends. As the world’s first premium bourbon, it changed the industry in 1953. Bill Samuels, Sr., simply wanted a whisky he would enjoy drinking. Never bitter or sharp, this is why Maker’s Mark is made with soft red winter wheat instead of rye.
Silk Velvet
Silk Velvet Bourbon is a revived Kentucky legacy brand that dates back to 1880, originally crafted in Henderson and known for its exceptionally smooth character. Today, the brand has been brought back to life by the Hargis family in partnership with 8th-generation master distiller Jacob Call, blending rich history with modern craftsmanship. Each bottle is made from hand-selected barrels and delivers a bold yet velvety profile with notes of caramel, vanilla, and spice.
Ingram Distillery
The Ingram Distillery is one of the most unique bourbon producers in Kentucky, known for aging its whiskey in floating barrelhouses on the Mississippi River. Founded in 2015, the brand blends innovation with history, using constant river motion, humidity, and temperature changes to create a richer, more complex flavor profile. Their “Mellowed on the Mississippi” process produces award-winning bourbons that stand out in both craftsmanship and character.