A Gentleman’s Bourbon
By Michelle McGruder Morgan
Photos courtesy of Gentleman’s Cut Bourbon
For more information, visit: www.gentlemanscutbourbon.com or @gentlemanscutbourbon.
Wardell Stephen Curry, has once again expanded his remarkable list of accomplishments, a feat that is anything but ordinary. From the basketball court to the global stage and beyond, Curry’s influence continues to resonate. Among the highlights of his ever-growing legacy is his attainment of a Gold Medal at the 2024 Paris Olympics. Many fans believed Curry should have been crowned MVP of the tournament, a sentiment that underscores his unparalleled impact. VISTAS spoke with, Michael Smith, Steph Curry’s publicist about the athlete’s legacy beyond the court.
This admiration was on full display during Curry’s visit to Shanghai, China, where fans packed the venue to celebrate the “Curry Brand,” a branch of Under Armour launched in 2020. The 2024 Curry Brand Tour, featuring Sacramento Kings point guard De’Aaron Fox, took place on September 10th. Fox, a global representative of the Curry Brand, has fully embraced the partnership, launching his own signature sneaker, the Curry Fox 1, this year.
Reflecting on Curry’s journey, it’s hard to ignore his underrated beginnings. In his 2009 NBA Scouting Report, he was dismissed as “not a true point guard” and criticized for relying “too heavily on outside shots.” But Curry’s story serves as a reminder to defy expectations and refuse to let others limit your potential.
Championing Inclusivity: The Underrated Golf Tour
Curry’s passion projects extend beyond basketball. The annual Curry Cup, part of the Underrated Golf Tour, takes place every August, championing inclusivity in a sport historically dominated by white men. The tour offers young, overlooked golfers the opportunity to shine. “I’m excited for all of it,” said Hope Hall, a 17-year-old participant from Florida.
Transforming Lives in Oakland: Eat.Learn.Play.
In 2019, Steph and Ayesha Curry launched the Eat.Learn.Play. Foundation, an initiative aimed at unleashing every child’s potential. Based in Oakland, California, the foundation provides 25,000 nutritious meals annually and distributes 100,000 culturally affirming books. By advocating for “Kid-Partisan Policies,” the foundation seeks to meet families where they are and pave the way for brighter futures.
A Taste of Excellence: Gentleman’s Cut Bourbon
Steph Curry’s entrepreneurial spirit also finds expression in his ventures outside of sports. Partnering with John Schwartz, owner of Amuse Bouche Winery, Curry joined forces with Boone County Distilling Company to create Gentleman’s Cut Bourbon. Distilled in 500-gallon copper pot stills and aged 5-7 years in charred new white oak barrels, this 90-proof bourbon offers a full-bodied palate and complex aromatic profile.
The first batch, released in May 2023, was an instant hit. Gentleman’s Cut Bourbon features tasting notes of cinnamon, honey, caramel, toasted chestnut, and fresh vanilla bean. The rye component adds an earthy, spicy touch, while the barley offers bold hints of cocoa and toast. Distribution is handled through Southern Glazer Wine and Spirits, with the Kentucky distillery open by appointment only.
Curry’s presence has been warmly welcomed at promotional events, including a Meet and Greet on June 29th in Benicia, California. “To have a day like this in Benicia, the hospitality has been unreal. Thank y’all so much for coming out,” Curry expressed to the crowd.
Celebrating 16 Years: Father and Son Edition Bourbon
As Steph Curry begins his 16th year in the NBA—matching his father, Dell Curry’s, impressive 16-year career—Gentleman’s Cut introduces a special edition bourbon: the 16-Year-Old Player Exclusive, Father and Son. Dell Curry, a respected NBA veteran and the 1996 NBA Sixth Man of the Year, set the standard for excellence, a legacy Steph continues to honor. “My pops set—and raised—the bar for us growing up, which makes this season that much more meaningful and special for our family,” Steph shared. “To commemorate the year, we’ve bottled this unique ‘Father and Son’ edition of Gentleman’s Cut, honoring the example my dad set for our family both on and off the court.”
This 100-proof bourbon, distilled in August 2008, boasts a mash bill of 75% corn, 13% rye, and 12% malted barley. Its profile includes notes of sweetness, spiciness, and smoke, with dried cherries and caramelized elements taking center stage. A nuanced hint of fine tobacco leaf adds a warm, earthy finish. “It’s meant for celebrating life’s finest moments and greatest pleasures,” Curry affirmed.
This special limited-edition bourbon will be available to members of the Gentleman’s Cut mailing list, as well as through select trade accounts in multiple states with a retail price of $950.
From championing inclusivity to elevating communities and crafting exquisite bourbon, Steph Curry’s ventures reflect his drive to excel in all areas of life. As he continues to inspire on and off the court, his journey serves as a testament to what can be achieved through passion, perseverance, and purpose.