As the leaves start turning and the air gets that crisp edge, September is about to roll in with a reason to raise a glass. September is National Bourbon Heritage Month, a whole month set aside by Congress to tip our hats to America's homegrown spirit. This isn't just some made-up holiday—it's a nod to the deep-rooted craftsmanship that's been perfecting bourbon for centuries. Places like Bardstown, Kentucky, know this better than anyone. They've been throwing festivals for years, drawing folks in to dive into the stories, the traditions, and the sheer skill that goes into every bottle.
But this year, there's something fresh shaking things up in the bourbon world. Enter Good Trouble Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, a newcomer that's turning heads and earning its stripes fast. Behind it all is Dee M. Robinson, a driven entrepreneur who's all about making a difference. She drew her inspiration from the late Congressman John Lewis, that powerhouse who urged everyone to "get into good trouble" for the greater good. Robinson took that to heart, pouring five solid years into crafting her bourbon alongside an eighth-generation master distiller right there in Kentucky's heartland.
What came out of that effort? A small-batch bourbon that's not messing around. It's already snagged a Gold medal at the 2025 San Francisco World Spirits Competition, racked up several wins at the New York International Spirits Competition, and piled on dozens more awards from top-shelf events. This isn't your run-of-the-mill sip—it's smooth, complex, and built with the kind of attention that honors bourbon's long history while pushing it forward.
Good Trouble stands out because it's more than just a drink. It's designed to get people talking, bonding, and even rethinking things. Every pour is a reminder to step up and make positive waves, just like Lewis preached. And it doesn't stop at words—part of every sale goes straight to the Shine Your Light Foundation, which backs all sorts of efforts to drive real change in communities. In a world where folks are looking for ways to give back without the hassle, this bourbon makes it easy: enjoy a quality spirit and know you're supporting something bigger.
The bourbon scene has always been about tradition, those time-honored methods passed down through generations. Kentucky's rolling hills, the careful selection of grains, the slow aging in charred oak barrels—it's a process that demands patience and know-how. But traditions evolve, and Good Trouble is proof of that. It's shining a light on new voices and fresh perspectives in an industry that's been pretty set in its ways. Robinson's venture celebrates the trailblazers who aren't afraid to challenge the status quo, bringing more diversity and innovation to the table. It's a sign that bourbon isn't stuck in the past; it's adapting, growing, and inviting everyone to join the ride.
Think about Bardstown's festivals for a second. These aren't just parties—they're gatherings where people share tales of distilleries that have stood the test of time, where you can taste the difference that expert hands make. Families and friends come together, swapping stories over flights of bourbon that capture the essence of American ingenuity. Good Trouble fits right into that vibe, but with a twist. It's an invitation to reflect on how far we've come as a nation, from the early days of corn-based whiskey to today's refined expressions. And with its roots in Lewis's legacy, it encourages that quiet determination to do right, even when it's tough.
Robinson's journey wasn't quick or easy. Five years of tweaking, testing, and perfecting with a distiller whose family has been in the game since way back—that's commitment. The result is a bourbon that's versatile: neat for those contemplative evenings by the fire, on the rocks for a casual backyard chat, or mixed into a classic old fashioned that hits just right after a long day. The awards speak for themselves—Gold in San Francisco means it held its own against the best from around the globe. The New York honors? That's recognition from judges who know their stuff inside out. And those dozens of other accolades? They're the cherry on top, showing that Good Trouble isn't a fluke; it's the real deal.
Beyond the flavor profile, what makes this bourbon resonate is its call to action. In a time when everyone's busy with work, family, and everything else, it's refreshing to find a product that aligns with values like leadership and community support. The Shine Your Light Foundation uses those proceeds to fuel initiatives that matter—helping people shine in their own ways, whether through education, empowerment, or other impactful programs. It's a subtle way to contribute, without preaching or complicating things. Just pour, savor, and know you're part of something worthwhile.
As Bourbon Heritage Month unfolds, it's the perfect backdrop to appreciate this evolution. The festivals in spots like Bardstown remind us of bourbon's storied past—the moonshiners, the prohibition era survivors, the master craftsmen who've guarded the secrets. But Good Trouble points to the future, where excellence meets purpose. It's an American story through and through: pursuing quality, breaking barriers, and lifting others up along the way.
So, if you're looking to mark the month with something special, consider cracking open a bottle of Good Trouble. It's not just about the taste—though that's plenty reason enough—it's about embracing that spirit of getting things done, one thoughtful sip at a time. In the end, bourbon's heritage is alive and kicking, and with players like this, it's only getting better.
