March Madness is wrapping up, and now is the time to root hardcore for your team. Wearing college colors is all fine and well, but the best way to show support for your team is to rep your state by drinking loyally and locally. Don’t worry, here at VinePair, we’re equal opportunists, so we’ve given you an option no matter which team you’re rooting for.
If you’re a Duke Blue Devil…
…have a Carver Lager
We happen to think North Carolina is a spectacular place to drink, and this lager proves why. Brewed in Durham and and named after famed botanist George Washington Carver, this sweet potato based lager has deliciously savory notes. Forget typical pumpkin pie sweetness and opt instead for this nutty, golden brew.
If you’re a Kentucky Wildcat…
…have a tumbler of Knob Creek Small Batch
Knob Creek Small Batch bourbon is the quintessential Kentucky bourbon. For many, it’s the first and last bourbon they’ll ever try. This straight bourbon is bursting with fat caramel flavor, delivering (so, so) much more depth than most big brand bourbons. It’s also great for cooking: throw a ribeye in the pan and drizzle.
It you’re a Wisconsin Badger…
….have a gin & tonic with Death’s Door Gin
Despite the name, there’s nothing scary about Death’s Door Gin. Named after the Death’s Door passageway sidled between Washington Island and Door County peninsula, this juniper forward spirit is delightfully simple. Three lone botanicals (juniper berries, coriander, and fennel) give this wheat and barley based gin a wonderful cleanliness that makes it perfect for mixing.
If you’re a Michigan Spartan…
…have some Traverse City Whiskey Co. Cherry Edition Bourbon
I know what you’re thinking. Cherry bourbon? That sounds gross. But instead of a typical, medicinal “cherry flavor” this straight bourbon actually tastes like, well, fresh cherries. The mellow, straight bourbon has the perfect amount of fruit flavor for mixing with soda and seltzer. Drop in a fresh cherry if you’re feeling really festive (which you probably are, being a Spartan).
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