As summer sets in, backyards across America come alive with the smoky aroma of barbeque and the smooth, rich taste of bourbon. This classic pairing, celebrated at festivals nationwide, captures the essence of warm evenings, good company, and bold flavors. From tangy brisket glazes to savory pork skewers, bourbon and barbeque bring a punch of zest and sweetness that defines the season. Among the standout spirits elevating this tradition is Good Trouble Bourbon, a Kentucky straight whiskey crafted by Dee M. Robinson, a trailblazing Black woman entrepreneur. Her award-winning bourbon, paired with crowd-pleasing cocktails, is the perfect companion for your next backyard gathering.
The Magic of Bourbon and Barbeque
Nothing says summer like firing up the grill and pouring a glass of bourbon. The combination is a match made in heaven, blending the smoky, charred notes of barbeque with the warm, caramel undertones of a well-crafted whiskey. Festivals dedicated to this duo draw crowds eager to savor high-profile chefs’ creations, like bourbon-infused brisket glazes that add a sweet, sticky depth to tender meat or pork skewers marinated with a bourbon kick that cuts through the richness. These events celebrate the heat of the grill, the zest of bold sauces, and the sweetness of shared moments under the summer sun.
The appeal lies in the balance. Bourbon’s complex profile—think oak, vanilla, and a touch of spice—complements the robust, savory flavors of barbeque. Whether it’s a slow-smoked rib slathered in sauce or a grilled burger with a bourbon glaze, the whiskey enhances every bite. It’s no wonder festivals across the country, from Kentucky to the Carolinas, dedicate entire weekends to this iconic pairing, offering tastings, cooking demos, and live music to keep the vibes high.
Good Trouble Bourbon: A Spirit with Soul
At the heart of this summer tradition is Good Trouble Bourbon, a small-batch Kentucky straight whiskey that’s as bold as it is smooth. Founded by Dee M. Robinson, this spirit isn’t just about great taste—it’s about making a difference. Robinson, a Black woman entrepreneur, created Good Trouble to honor changemakers, rebels, and trailblazers who challenge the status quo. Her bourbon embodies that spirit, encouraging drinkers to “get into good trouble” by sparking meaningful conversations and connections over a glass.
Good Trouble Bourbon has earned its place among the elite, clinching top honors like gold medals at the 2025 San Francisco World Spirits Competition and the 2025 LA Invitational Spirit Challenge. Distilled, aged, and bottled in Kentucky, this whiskey is crafted with high-quality, locally grown corn, winter rye, and malted barley. Bottled at 92 proof, it delivers a satiny texture with notes of spice, dried fruit, maple fudge, and light leather on the nose. The palate unfolds with flavors of dried cherry, hazelnut, and vanilla, finishing with a comforting warmth of spiced nuts and chocolate mint. It’s a versatile spirit that shines whether sipped neat, on the rocks, or mixed into cocktails that steal the show at any barbeque.
Cocktails to Elevate Your BBQ Game
Good Trouble Bourbon’s versatility makes it a go-to for crafting cocktails that impress without being fussy. Here are three recipes straight from the Good Trouble playbook that will have your guests coming back for seconds.
Good Trouble Fig and Rosemary Smash
Image credit: Good Trouble Bourbon
This cocktail is a crowd-pleaser with its fruity depth and herbal twist, perfect for pairing with smoky barbeque ribs or grilled veggies. The muddled figs add a jammy sweetness that balances the bourbon’s spice, while rosemary brings a fresh, aromatic finish.
- Ingredients:
- 2 oz Good Trouble Bourbon
- 2 fresh figs, muddled
- 1/2 oz honey syrup (1:1 ratio of honey and water)
- 1/2 oz fresh lime juice
- Fresh rosemary sprig (for garnish)
- Method:
- Muddle fresh figs in a shaker to release their juices.
- Add Good Trouble Bourbon, honey syrup, and fresh lime juice.
- Shake well with ice, then strain into a rocks glass filled with fresh ice.
- Garnish with a rosemary sprig for a touch of elegance.
This drink’s bold yet refreshing profile makes it a standout at any summer gathering, cutting through the richness of barbeque with ease.
Good Trouble Highball
Image credit: Good Trouble Bourbon
For a simple, no-fuss option that lets the bourbon shine, the Good Trouble Highball is your go-to. It’s light, fizzy, and perfect for sipping while you flip burgers or catch up with buddies by the grill.
- Ingredients:
- 2 oz Good Trouble Bourbon
- Ginger ale
- Lemon wedge (for garnish)
- Method:
- Fill a highball glass with ice.
- Pour in Good Trouble Bourbon.
- Top with ginger ale and stir gently to combine.
- Garnish with a lemon wedge for a bright, citrusy kick.
This highball is all about easy drinking, making it ideal for hot summer days when you want something refreshing that still packs a punch.
Good Trouble Bourbon Sour
Image credit: Good Trouble Bourbon
For those who love a classic with a twist, the Good Trouble Bourbon Sour delivers a creamy, tangy sip that pairs beautifully with smoky brisket or pulled pork. The egg white adds a silky texture, while the bitters elevate the presentation.
- Ingredients:
- 2 oz Good Trouble Bourbon
- 3/4 oz fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 oz simple syrup
- 1 egg white
- Angostura bitters (for garnish)
- Method:
- Combine Good Trouble Bourbon, lemon juice, simple syrup, and egg white in a shaker without ice.
- Dry shake for 10 seconds to emulsify the egg white.
- Add ice and shake vigorously for 10-15 seconds.
- Strain into a chilled glass and garnish with a few drops of Angostura bitters on the foam.
This cocktail’s smooth, frothy texture and balanced flavors make it a sophisticated addition to any barbeque spread.
Why Good Trouble Stands Out
What sets Good Trouble Bourbon apart isn’t just its award-winning taste—it’s the story behind it. Dee M. Robinson’s journey to create this spirit is rooted in a passion for bourbon and a commitment to social impact. Inspired by civil rights icon John Lewis, she designed Good Trouble to be more than a drink; it’s a catalyst for connection and change. A portion of every sale supports the Shine Your Light Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to inclusivity, equity, and community-driven initiatives. Every sip is a chance to raise a glass to progress.
Robinson’s bourbon also stands out for its transparency. Produced at the historic Green River Distilling Company (DSP-KY-10), the bottle proudly displays its mash bill—70% corn, 21% rye, 9% malted barley—and its Kentucky roots. This honesty, combined with its rich flavor and purposeful mission, makes Good Trouble a bourbon you can feel good about pouring.
Bringing It All Together
As summer fades, there’s no better way to soak up the season than with bourbon and barbeque. Whether you’re hosting a backyard bash or heading to a festival, Good Trouble Bourbon brings the heat with its versatile flavor and inspiring story. From the Fig and Rosemary Smash to the classic Bourbon Sour, these cocktails are sure to impress your guests and pair perfectly with your favorite grilled dishes. So grab a bottle, fire up the grill, and toast to the bold flavors and bold ideas that make summer unforgettable.
For more on Good Trouble Bourbon and where to find it, visit www.goodtroublebourbon.com. Raise a glass, spark a conversation, and get into some good trouble this summer.
