Let’s face it, bourbon is as much about the experience as it is about the pour. And now, Old Fitzgerald is leaning hard into that truth with a new partner who knows a thing or two about unforgettable experiences: Gail Simmons.
Yes, that Gail Simmons … the culinary writer, chef, and longtime Top Chef judge known for elevating everything she touches. This summer, she’s lending her hospitality chops to Old Fitzgerald in a new project called “The Pleasure is Ours: Exceptional Guest Experiences, A Collection.” It’s part digital guidebook, part cocktail inspiration, and all about celebrating the kind of warm, thoughtful hospitality that leaves a lasting impression … bourbon in hand, of course.
Bourbon and the Art of Hosting
Old Fitzgerald has always played the long game, literally and figuratively. With roots stretching back to 1870 and a well-loved wheated bourbon style, the brand knows a thing or two about craftsmanship and care. Their new 7-Year Bottled-in-Bond release is their latest love letter to that tradition: all golden hues, honeyed graham cracker aroma, and a finish that practically begs for a front porch and good company.
Enter Simmons, stepping into a new role as Old Fitzgerald’s “Hospitality Concierge.” It’s more than a title. She’s curated a keynote for the brand’s new digital guide and contributed two original cocktails meant to showcase how bourbon isn’t just a drink, it’s part of the atmosphere.
“For me, hospitality is in the details,” Simmons says. “Whether you’re pouring someone a drink at your home bar or showing them your favorite hidden gem of a restaurant, those small touches are what people remember.” That’s the energy she’s bringing to this partnership, and it shows.
A Digital Guide to Memorable Moments
The new digital guide doesn’t just talk about hosting, it shows you how it’s done across the country. Written by spirits and menswear journalist Eric Twardzik, the collection shines a light on New York, Chicago, and Seattle, spotlighting spots that make hospitality feel like an art form. Think classic hotels, cocktail lounges hidden behind barbershops, and cozy fireplaces that practically hug you.
It’s not just for window shopping, either. The “Key to Hospitality Sweepstakes” invites one lucky bourbon fan (plus three guests) to take a curated NYC trip, with all the Southern charm of Old Fitzgerald folded in.
A Cocktail for Every Occasion
And since no gathering is complete without a good drink, Simmons also came up with two cocktail recipes to help hosts bring a little polish to their pours. Her Honey Bramble Smash blends the Bottled-in-Bond 7-Year with muddled blackberries, lemon zest, and honey … a refreshing way to wind down a summer evening.
And for the colder months? Try the Old Brooklyn Spritz, which pairs the bourbon with blood orange, a little sweetness, and a splash of bubbly. It’s got holiday toast written all over it.
Still Classic, Still Fitzgerald
At $59.99, the new 7-Year Bottled-in-Bond bourbon lands firmly in that sweet spot where quality meets accessibility. Whether you’re sipping it neat or building a cocktail, it carries the classic Old Fitzgerald profile … soft, rich, with just enough spice to keep things interesting.
More than anything, this new chapter for Old Fitzgerald reminds us that great bourbon doesn’t just live in the glass. It lives in the moments we make with it.
And if you ask Gail Simmons, those moments are better when they’re shared.
Curious about the new guide or want to try your hand at the cocktail recipes?
Check out: oldfitzgeraldbourbon.com/exceptional-guest-expirences.php
And don’t forget to follow Old Fitzgerald on Instagram for sweepstakes details.
Sips & Sites & Bites 
Leave a comment