The Art of Bourbon Barrel Selection: A Journey with Thomas Sanborn, President of 2BHospitality

When it comes to the world of bourbon, there’s something captivating about personally handpicking bourbon barrels to curate a unique and exceptional selection. At Stillwaters Tavern, a renowned restaurant with a strong focus on bourbon, the process of barrel selection is a fascinating journey. In a recent conversation with Thomas Sanborn, the President of 2BHospitality and a passionate bourbon enthusiast, we explored his entry into the world of this spirit and what makes the selection process at Stillwaters Tavern so special.

A Bourbon Awakening:

Thomas Sanborn’s journey into the realm of bourbon began in 2015 when he joined Stillwaters Tavern. Although he didn’t have a deep appreciation for the aged whiskey  initially, he quickly recognized its significance as he became immersed in the restaurant’s offerings. This realization prompted him to delve further into the spirit’s history and flavors, and he became captivated. A trip to Kentucky in 2016 marked a turning point in his journey, as he explored  the history of distillers and the unique qualities that set each one apart. His passion for handpicking bourbon barrels was sparked and he has not looked back since.

The Selection Process:

The process of selecting bourbon barrels is both intricate and subtle. Thomas and his team at Stillwaters Tavern embark on a tasting journey, sampling around 30 barrels to identify the up-to-three barrels that meet their criteria. The criteria aren’t rigidly scientific; instead, they are based on what they believe their guests desire, and what they themselves enjoy. They look for nuanced flavors like tobacco, leather, and vanilla, which make bourbon approachable and delightful. Thomas often personally leads these tastings, relying on his palate and instincts to guide the selection.

Kentucky’s Influence:

Kentucky, often considered the heartland of bourbon, holds a special place in the bourbon production process. The state’s distinctive temperature fluctuations play a pivotal role in how bourbon interacts with oak barrels, resulting in unique flavors and characteristics. While bourbon can be made in various places, the heritage and traditions deeply rooted in Kentucky make it an exceptional region for bourbon production. Thomas has however also explored other bourbon-producing regions, such as High West in Utah and Old Elk in Colorado, showcasing his willingness to seek out exceptional offerings beyond Kentucky.

Memorable Experiences:

Thomas has had the opportunity to work closely with the Russel Family, known for their work with Wild Turkey bourbon. Throughout his career he’s met with  the legendary Jimmy Russel, often referred to as the “grandfather of bourbon,” and collaborates frequently with Bruce, his grandson, on bourbon selections for Stillwaters Tavern. One of his most cherished experiences was collaborating with Wilderness Trail, resulting in a selection that he’s particularly proud of.

Educating Staff and Customers:

At Stillwaters Tavern, educating both staff and customers about their bourbon selection is a top priority. They are pleased to be able to rely on the expertise of bourbon suppliers like Stephen Beam, a member of the Jim Beam family, who visits to share his knowledge. These interactions help staff and customers understand and appreciate the unique characteristics of each bourbon.

Future Goals:

Looking ahead, Stillwaters Tavern is in negotiations for a new location in Sarasota. With this expansion, they plan to split their barrel selections between the two locations, introducing bourbon to a new area and demographic.

Thomas Sanborn’s journey into bourbon and barrel selection at Stillwaters Tavern is a testament to the passion and dedication that go into curating an exceptional spirits collection. His commitment to showcasing the diverse and intricate world of bourbon promises to continue captivating the hearts and palates of bourbon aficionados, both seasoned and newcomers alike.