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Experience the Bellefontaine Bourbon Release at J. Henry & Sons Derby Party in Dane, Wisconsin

Experience the Bellefontaine Bourbon Release at J. Henry & Sons Derby Party in Dane, Wisconsin

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  4. Experience the Bellefontaine Bourbon Release at J. Henry & Sons Derby Party in Dane, Wisconsin

Adventure Brief

Join J. Henry & Sons in Dane, Wisconsin for the Bellefontaine Release - Derby Party, celebrating the 151st Kentucky Derby with bourbon tasting, yard games, and a stylish Hat & Dress Promenade.

3 hours
easy
Family Friendly
No Experience Required

Keep the Adventure Going

More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders

Step into the spirited world of bourbon and Southern tradition at the Bellefontaine Release - Derby Party hosted by J. Henry & Sons in Dane, Wisconsin. This unique outdoor event commemorates the 151st Kentucky Derby, an iconic horse race often called 'the fastest two minutes in sports.' Held at the J. Henry & Sons distillery grounds, the party brings together bourbon lovers and Derby fans alike for a lively afternoon celebrating fine spirits, good company, and a thrilling slice of Americana.

J. Henry & Sons, a respected player in Wisconsin’s growing craft distillery scene, has crafted Bellefontaine—a refined bourbon finished in French Cognac barrels that adds a sophisticated twist to traditional bourbon flavors. This release is not just a tasting; it’s a full sensory experience. Guests receive entry that includes a sample of the freshly released Bellefontaine, a signature Mint Julep cocktail, and hearty food to fuel an afternoon of festivities.

Beyond sipping exceptional bourbon, attendees can enjoy yard games and lively activities that bring a welcoming, community spirit to the distillery grounds. The event culminates in a Hat & Dress Promenade, where participants showcase their style for awards—a nod to the Derby’s longstanding tradition of sartorial elegance. The atmosphere buzzes with anticipation as the Kentucky Derby races are broadcast live, tying the day’s events together in a celebration of speed, spirit, and southern charm right in the heart of Wisconsin.

Situated just outside Madison, Dane offers an inviting rural setting with rolling hills and scenic views, making the J. Henry & Sons distillery a standout destination. The blending of local Wisconsin craft traditions with a legendary Kentucky sporting culture highlights this event’s distinctiveness. Visitors appreciate that this is not just a tasting but a curated day of culture, camaraderie, and celebration behind the scenes of one of the nation’s most respected bourbon makers.

Whether you're a bourbon aficionado eager to taste a boutique release or a traveler seeking an authentic regional festivity, the Bellefontaine Release - Derby Party offers a memorable gateway to the spirited world of craft bourbon and Derby day excitement in a welcoming outdoor setting. Dress comfortably for the season, bring your best Derby hats, and get ready for an afternoon that blends craft, competition, and community with a twist of Southern hospitality—right in Dane, Wisconsin.

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Trip Details from the Operator

Frequently Asked Questions

The Bellefontaine Release - Derby Party is primarily an adults-only bourbon tasting event, so it is best suited for guests 21 and older.

Yes, additional cocktails beyond those included with your ticket are available for purchase on-site.

Yes, there is ample parking available at the distillery for guests attending the event.

Key Highlights

Difficulty

easy

Duration

3 hours

Fitness Level

No special fitness level required, suitable for all ages and activity levels

Local Insights

Wildlife

  • Red-tailed hawks
  • White-tailed deer

History

J. Henry & Sons honors Wisconsin’s distilling heritage with craft bourbon blending practices that recall the area’s 19th-century roots.

Conservation

The distillery employs sustainable sourcing and environmentally conscious production methods to minimize its ecological footprint.

Related Adventures & Guides

  • See other trips from J Henry & Sons
  • Explore more Madison adventures
  • Read our Madison travel guide

Operated By

J Henry & Sons

Join J. Henry & Sons in Dane, Wisconsin for the Bellefontaine Release - Derby Party, celebrating the 151st Kentucky Derby with bourbon tasting, yard games, and a stylish Hat & Dress Promenade.

About J Henry & Sons

J Henry & Sons is a family-owned bourbon distillery and tasting room located in Dane, Wisconsin. The business produces Wisconsin Straight Bourbon and curates a variety of guided experiences that highlight bourbon craftsmanship, barrel aging, mixology, and culinary pairings. Guests can choose from cocktail classes, tasting flights, VIP tours, release parties, and collaborative classes that combine bourbon with candle making or charcuterie.

Each experience emphasizes education and sensory exploration. Tours and tasting flights introduce production methods, barrel sampling, and guided pours of multiple expressions. Cocktail classes teach mixology techniques and include small bites and a take-home gift. The VIP Whiskey Thief Tour is a two-hour, senses-forward experience featuring barrel samples and a signature cocktail. The 30-minute tasting flight showcases three expressions in a concise format. A tour-only option welcomes under-21 guests and designated drivers by offering the full tasting-room atmosphere without alcohol.

J Henry & Sons also hosts special events, release parties like the Bellefontaine Derby celebration, and intimate dinner collaborations that pair bourbon with curated menus. Collaborative classes with local partners, including Midwest Candle Co and Tricky Foods, combine hands-on craft activities with bourbon tastings.

The distillery maintains professional hospitality standards, requires photo ID for tastings, and provides tailored event support for private bookings. By focusing on authentic bourbon production, educational experiences, and local partnerships, J Henry & Sons offers reliable, memorable visits that appeal to bourbon enthusiasts, foodies, and groups seeking a distinctive Wisconsin spirits experience. Booking information and availability are posted on the official website and calendar.

Rows of barrel racks stacked high in distillery aging room
Branded oak barrel head with distillery logo in cellar

Tours Offered

11

Diverse bourbon and cocktail experiences

Location

Dane, Wisconsin

Regional distillery and tasting room

VIP Tour Length

2 hours

VIP Whiskey Thief Tour duration

Tasting Flight

30 minutes

Three-expression tasting flight

CTA Section Background Image

Reserve a J Henry & Sons Experience

Book a tasting flight, cocktail class, or VIP tour in Dane, Wisconsin — bring photo ID for bourbon tastings and check availability for special events.

Adventure Tips

Dress for the Weather

This outdoor event can be subject to changing spring weather; bring layers and a rain jacket just in case.

essential

Arrive Early for Check-In

Check in promptly upon arrival to receive your food and drink tickets and maximize your experience.

info

Wear Comfortable Footwear

You'll spend much of the day on grass and gravel surfaces—opt for sturdy shoes for comfort.

info

Bring Your Derby Hat

Participate in the Hat & Dress Promenade by bringing your most stylish Derby-themed attire.

info

Recommended Gear

Weather-Appropriate Layers

Temperatures can vary; layering keeps you comfortable throughout the day.

spring

Essential

Sun Protection

Sunscreen and a wide-brimmed hat help protect against sun exposure during the outdoor event.

spring

Essential

Comfortable Footwear

Supportive shoes ensure comfort on grassy and gravel terrain.

Essential

Light Rain Jacket

A compact rain jacket prepares you for possible spring showers.

spring