It’s beginning to look a lot like bourbon…
Holiday movies and bourbon: two things that make the season a little warmer and a lot more fun. But have you ever wondered—if your favorite holiday characters were bourbons, what would they be? Would Clark Griswold be a high-proof, over-the-top pour? Would the Grinch start out like a spicy rye and mellow out after a few sips?
Grab a glass, settle in, and let’s reimagine some holiday classics through the lens of Kentucky’s finest spirits. Cheers to some festive fun!
- Clark Griswold – Wild Turkey 101
(National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation)
Clark Griswold dreams big—REALLY big. Whether it’s stringing up 25,000 twinkle lights or planning a perfect family Christmas, he’s bold, ambitious, and a little chaotic. Wild Turkey 101 fits him perfectly: high-proof, full-flavored, and never subtle. Just like Clark, it brings the energy.
Sip this if: You’re feeling adventurous enough to tackle a holiday light display that can be seen from space.
- Kevin McCallister – Basil Hayden’s
(Home Alone)
Kevin may look like a kid, but he’s wise beyond his years (and pretty sneaky). He’s resourceful, clever, and surprisingly smooth under pressure—kind of like Basil Hayden’s. With its approachable, light spice and touch of elegance, it’s the bourbon you’d want by your side when setting up traps for Wet Bandits.
Sip this if: You’re staying home alone this holiday season—but with significantly less booby-trapping.
- Buddy the Elf – Maker’s Mark
(Elf)
Is there anything sweeter than Buddy the Elf? His syrup obsession and unwavering cheer make Maker’s Mark the obvious match. Smooth, sweet, and instantly recognizable with its red wax seal, Maker’s is the perfect bourbon for spreading Christmas cheer (loudly, for all to hear).
Sip this if: You’ve already had a second helping of dessert and you’re considering a syrup-based cocktail.
- The Grinch – Knob Creek Rye
(How the Grinch Stole Christmas)
Ah, the Grinch. Spicy, a little bitter, but ultimately full of warmth and heart. Knob Creek Rye mirrors his character arc: bold and peppery at first, but with a smooth, rich finish that sneaks up on you—kind of like his three-sizes-too-big heart by the end of the movie.
Sip this if: You’re the reluctant holiday enthusiast who secretly loves it all.
- Ebenezer Scrooge – Elijah Craig Barrel Proof
(A Christmas Carol)
Scrooge starts off sharp and uncompromising, much like Elijah Craig Barrel Proof. It’s a high-proof bourbon that doesn’t pull any punches. But give it a chance, and you’ll uncover layers of complexity, richness, and warmth—just like Scrooge after he’s visited by a few ghosts and some much-needed self-reflection.
Sip this if: You’re feeling contemplative about the true meaning of the holidays (and ready for a serious pour).
- John McClane – Old Forester 1920
(Die Hard)
Yes, it’s a Christmas movie. And yes, John McClane is bourbon personified. Rugged, classic, and built to handle the impossible, McClane would undoubtedly be Old Forester 1920. It’s strong, dependable, and a little fiery—just like the guy who single-handedly saves a skyscraper from terrorists.
Sip this if: You’re spending Christmas arguing with people about whether Die Hard is a holiday movie (it is).
- Ralphie Parker – Woodford Reserve
(A Christmas Story)
Ralphie is full of youthful excitement and determination, dreaming of that one perfect gift (a Red Ryder BB gun, of course). Woodford Reserve is the perfect match: a classic, reliable bourbon that delivers on every level. Just like Ralphie, it’s a crowd-pleaser with staying power.
Sip this if: You’re already reminiscing about your favorite holiday gift from years past.
So there you have it – whether you’re bold like Clark Griswold or sweet like Buddy the Elf, there’s a bourbon out there that matches your holiday spirit. This season, why not pour one of these festive favorites and toast to your favorite characters? Or, better yet, let the Kentucky Bourbon Boys take you on a tour of the distilleries where these bourbons come to life. After all, nothing says “holiday cheer” quite like bourbon and a classic movie. Cheers!
