Andre Regard
Andre traces his Kentucky lineage back to the 1700s, when bourbon whiskey first began to be distilled. He is a direct descendant of Basil Hayden and the founders of Old Grand-Dad Whiskey in Hobbs, Kentucky. His ancestors later moved to Louisiana during the first bourbon boom, making it safe to say his passion for bourbon is truly in his blood.
A successful entrepreneur and equine attorney, Andre is known for pursuing ventures deeply connected to the land. Originally from Louisiana, he and his brother operate Cane River Pecan Company, one of the largest business-to-business pecan companies in the country. After relocating to Kentucky in 1999, Andre managed a respected thoroughbred breeding farm in Bourbon County before founding his equine law firm, Regard Law Group.
Andre has served on the Kentucky Racing Health and Welfare Fund and was among the first members of KEEP – the Kentucky Equine Education Project. He is a past chair of the equine section of the Kentucky Bar Association and has served as a committee leader for the American Bar Association.
He and his wife reside on a historic property in Scott County, where they raise their seven children. The property features a natural spring and is home to Browns Mill Farm and Inn, a retreat for those seeking the beauty of the Kentucky landscape. When time allows, Andre enjoys hunting in Louisiana or relaxing with a fine bourbon.
Damon Thayer
Serving as a Kentucky State Senator from 2003 to 2025, Damon Thayer spent decades championing the bourbon industry at the state level. He is one of only eight legislators to receive the prestigious 100 Proof Award from the Kentucky Distillers’ Association—and the only senator to earn the honor four times.
Damon was also inducted into the distinguished Order of the Writ by The Fifteen, a council of bourbon industry leaders and the KDA. On September 16, 2025, he was inducted into the Kentucky Bourbon Hall of Fame in his first year of eligibility, recognized for his leadership in passing legislation that significantly advanced Kentucky’s bourbon industry during his 22 years in the Senate.
Event Details
Thursday, May 28th
6:30 PM
$70 per person
Known for highly limited releases of Kentucky Straight Bourbon and single barrel expressions—each named after a U.S. Senator from Kentucky—the brand continues to grow, including a recent expansion into Louisiana.
Featured Pour
Jim Bunning #7 — 107 proof, 8.5-year-aged bourbon
The evening will begin with a signature cocktail, the Kentucky Senator Esquire, followed by a guided tasting paired with small plates by Chef Jason:
Boudin Bites, Roasted Oysters, BBQ Shrimp, Black & Blue Crostini, and Fried Bread Pudding.
Reserve your spot: 859-252-0960
