Lexington’s oldest bar to sell shots of Pappy Van Winkle bourbon at cost

You’ve probably heard of people lining up Thanksgiving for Black Friday deals. How about a “brown Friday” special?

On Friday Nov. 24, the Chevy Chase Inn, Lexington’s oldest bar, will celebrate 90 years in business with a “Pappy Anniversary:” The bar at 833 E. Euclid Ave. will let customers buy pours, or shots, of the Pappy Van Winkle bourbons at cost.

Chevy Chase Inn co-owner Kevin Heathcoat said that the priciest pour will go for $20, which might sound like a lot but some bars routinely charge hundreds of dollars for a chance to taste the coveted bourbon.

“We feel that bourbon this special should be enjoyed, not sitting on a shelf collecting dust. The prices being charged for Pappy Van Winkle have gotten out of control,” said co-owner Cameron Heathcoat. “So many people right here in the heart of Bourbon Country have never had the opportunity to have a sip because of the overly inflated price tag that has been placed on this family of bourbon. Pappy is actually one of the most reasonably priced ultra-premium bourbons when it leaves the rickhouse, but our industry and the secondary market have ruined it for working-class bourbon lovers everywhere.”

Here’s what each bourbon will cost you for a sample: Old Rip Van Winkle Distillery 10 Year $7; Van Winkle Special Reserve 12 Year $9; Pappy Van Winkle 15 Year $12; Pappy Van Winkle 20 Year $15; and Pappy Van Winkle 25 Year $20.

According to the bar’s social media post, the first 90 people in line are guaranteed a 1.5 ounce pour (only one) from one of their seven bottles including Pappy Van Winkle 25 Year, Pappy Van Winkle 20 Year, Pappy Van Winkle 15 Year, Van Winkle Special Reserve 12 Year “Lot B” and Old Rip Van Winkle Distillery 10 Year.

The bar will give out numbered wristbands beginning at 1 p.m. but you can line up as early as you wish. Doors open at 2 p.m. You will be able to pick which bourbon you would like based on the number on your wristband.

Chevy Chase Inn recently created their own bourbon in the Maker’s Mark Private Selection earlier this year and the first chance for Lexington to try their 90th Anniversary Bourbon also will be on Nov. 24.

“We are excited to not only be able to serve our one of a kind Marker’s Mark by the pour, but we’re also allowed to sell bottles of it for you to enjoy at home until Dec. 22,” Heathcoat said. A portion of each bottle sold will be donated to Operation Secret Santa, a local charity that provides toys and food for families in need during the holidays.