8 Tailgate Essentials for Whisky Lovers

Tailgates have all the makings of the best parties: laid-back atmosphere, copious delicious food, and plenty of time to enjoy a dram or two with friends. If you need food and drink ideas for a whisky-centric tailgate, we’ve got you covered. You’ll need some equipment too—here are our picks.

Kick-off tailgating season right with these parking lot picks

Best of Times Portable Bar—$499
Pop-ups aren’t just for hipster chefs. This eye-catching bar in a bag, including four stools and umbrella, goes from flat to fabulous in minutes.

Bourbon Barrel EZ Chair—$280
This roomy chair, made from bourbon barrels, is sure to be the best seat in the house. It folds flat in two pieces and is stylish enough to go from parking lot to front porch or living room.

Maker’s Mark Authentic Barrel Grilling Chips—$20

Whether you’re a charcoal devotee or like to get cooking with gas, these wood chips, made from bourbon barrels, lend the flavor of a barrel to otherwise basic burgers.

Yeti Tundra 75 Cooler—$450
Whether you choose to stock it with food, precious ice, or up to 50 beers, this is the Cadillac of coolers. Add a padlock and it’s actually bear proof, according to the Interagency Grizzly Bear Committee. (Not guaranteed against Chicago Bears.)

Breville The Smoking Gun—$120
Smoke fans rejoice! Add wood chips, like hickory or apple, to this new battery-operated appliance and instantly infuse meats, cheeses, popcorn, cocktails, and more with smoky goodness.

Disposable Wooden Cutlery—$21/50 sets
This cool cutlery is not only more earth friendly than plastic, it also evokes a wooden whisky barrel. You’ll still avoid the need to do dishes at halftime.

GoVino Whiskey Cups—$18/4 cups
Shatterproof, reusable, and recyclable, these 14 oz. tumblers are more rugged than any red plastic cup. A thumb groove makes them pleasing to hold and behold.

Crock-Pot Single Hand Cook & Carry 6-Quart Slow Cooker—$70
Put an end to spills and splashes with this highly mobile crock-pot. It holds enough for a crowd and lid clamps keep your chili secure no matter how bumpy the ride. One-hand carry leaves the other free for your whisky.

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