Kaitlyn Soligan & Nicole Stipp
Kaitlyn Soligan and Nicole Stipp believe there is a Bourbon for everyone and their job is to help you find it. The duo’s Louisville company, Matson & Gilman, which was recently highlighted in a Forbes Travel Guide, specializes in personalized trips and concierge services for people who want to experience Bourbon Country.
EAT & DRINK: The Silver Dollar for fried pickles or fried okra and literally any cocktail ever. Try their private selection Bourbons or some of their new vintage pulls. Nouvelle – Let Aaron, the head sommelier and co-owner, lead you on an amazing wine flight and tasting experience. Be sure to get some of the meat selections from our faves at Commonwealth Cure. Garage Bar – Pizzas are brilliant here, but they also secretly have one of the best selections of Bourbon in Louisville.
SHOP: Work the Metal - Home to some of the best and most fun little keepsakes, and its sassy collection of magnets, candles and mugs make the perfect gifts. Wild Dog Rose - Nothing like crystals, feminist literature and custom tea blends. This little shop is LGBT and woman owned and has one of the best local collections of items that will help you center your energy and take home some calm. Forage - Owned by a Bourbon-industry expat, this little spot on Frankfort Avenue is our go-to when we need some green in our homes. The owner, Jamie, has curated a wonderful collection of body products (there’s a clay mask there that we swear by!).
EXPERIENCE: Churchill Downs Backside Tour - Get there at the crack of dawn on a cool Spring morning and see the horses warm up, ride through the backside and eat lunch where the trainers and staff eat. Cocktail making class and tour at Copper & Kings - Copper & Kings is a brandy distillery owned by an immigrant and combines everything we love: Rock ‘n roll, sass and fine spirits. Chateau Bourbon - Stop by for some of the best desserts and cocktails in the entire city, or spend a few nights to experience comprehensive Southern hospitality, complete with one-of-a-kind interior design, woodworking and an ever-changing delicious menu.
ATTEND: A race at Churchill Downs - You don’t have to wait for the madness of Derby to enjoy the ponies! Bourbon & Beyond - Music, food and Bourbon near downtown Louisville. The first year featured Stevie Nicks and a Bourbon lodge spotlighting some of the leaders of the industry. NuLu Bock Fest - The street festival features tons of local food purveyors, lots of beer stands and goat races… yes, really goat races!
FAVE THING ABOUT LOUISVILLE: We’ve been welcomed into this community and built things we never dreamed possible because people want to take an idea and level it up. It’s like a constant competition to see who can make the most awesome things and everyone who plays is winning.