The weather is getting colder, kids are back in school and the dog days of summer have come to an end. Americans wait patiently each week for their football team’s day to play, all while dreaming of the accompaniments that go hand in hand with the game. Make a new addition to your bar cart and sip on something different this season with Longbranch Bourbon.

Actor Matthew McConaughey and Wild Turkey master distiller Eddie Russell carefully crafted the golden bourbon with Texas Mesquite, oak charcoals and hints of pear, citrus and caramel to produce a bourbon the way McConaughey enjoys it most — neat. A bourbon sure to warm you up at a chilly autumn tailgate or in front of a screen at home with friends, Longbranch Bourbon is sure to be a hit for the big game.

The smoky, smooth, 8-year-aged bourbon is perfect to drink as is or in delicious cocktails. Try these two concoctions created by master bartender Benny Hurwitz to give your next viewing party the class it deserves.

Branch Water

Ingredients:

2 parts Longbranch Bourbon

Half of a lime

Soda water

In a highball glass filled with ice, squeeze the lime and place the rind in the glass. Add the bourbon and top with soda water.

Photo Courtesy of Longbranch

Long & Lemon

Ingredients:

2 ounces Longbranch Bourbon

3 ounces still water

1 ounce lemon juice

1 ounce simple syrup

Add ingredients to a highball glass over ice and stir. Garnish with a lemon wedge.

Photo Courtesy of Longbranch