A Bit of Bourbon History for Indy’s Premier Bourbon Celebration

July 20, 2023

Recognized by the U.S. Congress as a “distinctive product of the United States,” Americans have proudly been distilling bourbon since the 18th Century. And while Kentucky is commonly referred to as the birthplace of bourbon, the primary ingredient needed to produce this barrel-aged American whiskey is something Hoosiers know a thing or two about growing – corn. 

To officially/technically be classified as bourbon, the spirit must use at least 51 percent corn in its mash bill. Combine corn with limestone-filtered water and a little Indiana weather and you have the fixings to produce one fine spirit. In fact, many varieties of spirits are distilled in Indiana. In 2019, St. Elmo Steak House launched its own line of ready-to-pour cocktails. 

The world-class St. Elmo Steak House bartenders have served millions of drinks since opening in 1902. Pulling from decades of experience, these seasoned bartenders hand-selected their guests’ favorite cocktails for the ready-to-pour line. St. Elmo blends and bottles the retail beverages (St. Elmo Cherry Vanilla Bourbon, Old Fashioned, Espresso Martini and Cosmopolitan) at a recently opened facility in Indiana. 

The original “Pop’s Old Fashioned” recipe was created by Candace Anastasio, one of the restaurant’s tenured bartenders and introduced to St. Elmo’s signature tiger-oak bar in 2010. The cocktail quickly gained popularity and has kept its spot on the signature cocktail list at all Huse Culinary restaurants. After spending months in research and development to perfect the product, the ready-to-pour St. Elmo Old Fashioned was created.  

During Indy’s Premier Bourbon Celebration, guests will be able to enjoy the ready-to-pour beverages, including the St. Elmo Cocktails Old Fashioned, a classic blend of bourbon whiskey, crisp orange and aromatic bitters. 

The Indiana Historical Society (IHS) is celebrating the “distinctive product” during Indy’s Premier Bourbon Celebration on July 28.  

During the event, attendees are invited to explore the History Center while sampling renowned spirits and learning about the fine art of distilling. The VIP experience will feature dedicated time with master bartenders, additional food prior to general admission, a commemorative glass and exclusive access to the VIP lounge throughout the event. 

Featured in the VIP room will be the Indianapolis landmark, St. Elmo Steak House.  

Ticket information for Indy’s Premier Bourbon Celebration can be found here.

Stephanie Ebarb is director of marketing at Huse Culinary.

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