The News
Chicken Cock Whiskey has reimagined its Circa 1856 speakeasy in Louisville as "The Coupe," launching with an opening weekend starting March 26. The new concept includes exclusive events, collaborations like Mover & Shaker’s pop-up, and a focus on immersive whiskey experiences that honor the brand's heritage while appealing to modern consumers.
The Takeaway
Heritage Meets Modernity: Chicken Cock Whiskey is blending its deep historical roots with a fresh speakeasy concept called "The Coupe," showing how legacy brands can evolve while staying true to their origins. The move highlights the growing trend of experiential drinking spaces that offer more than just cocktails—like immersive storytelling and community engagement.
Local Partnership Boost: By partnering with Mover & Shaker for a pop-up event, Chicken Cock is tapping into Louisville’s vibrant hospitality scene. This collaboration not only elevates the brand's local presence but also signals a strategic move to align with respected names in the craft cocktail world, which can attract both whiskey connoisseurs and curious visitors.
Event-Driven Engagement: The opening weekend events at "The Coupe" are more than just a relaunch—they're designed to create lasting community ties. With specific dates like March 26 and exclusive offerings like the pop-up bar, Chicken Cock is using event-driven engagement as a key strategy to build brand loyalty and attract both locals and tourists.
Original Press Release
Opening weekend celebration begins March 26 with exclusive events, cocktails, and Bockfest festivities
LOUISVILLE, KY — March 16, 2026 — Chicken Cock Whiskey, one of America’s oldest whiskey brands dating back to 1856, today announced the relaunch of its Circa 1856 Louisville speakeasy as “The Coupe,” a reimagined cocktail destination in the heart of the city.
The new concept reflects Chicken Cock Whiskey’s ongoing commitment to honoring its storied heritage while creating immersive spaces where whiskey enthusiasts can gather, celebrate, and experience the brand firsthand.
“The Coupe represents the next chapter of our Circa 1856 experience in Louisville,” says Emily Zaborowski, Director of Brand Experiences for Chicken Cock Whiskey. “We wanted to create a space that celebrates the spirit of classic speakeasy culture while giving guests a fresh way to experience Chicken Cock Whiskey through thoughtfully crafted cocktails, events, and community gatherings. Louisville has such a vibrant hospitality scene, and we’re excited for The Coupe to become a place where locals and visitors alike can come together and raise a glass to ‘The Famous Old Brand.’”
Opening Weekend Events
The Coupe at Circa 1856 Louisville will debut with a weekend of celebratory events beginning March 26.
Thursday, March 26 | 9:00 PM – 12:00 AM Mover & Shaker Pop-Up at The Coupe
The opening night will feature a special pop-up from acclaimed cocktail bar Mover & Shaker. Owner Nick Hogan will bring the bar’s signature energy to The Coupe, joined by Kelly Nelson of Circa 1856 Louisville and Tavaris Smith of Grain & Barrel Spirits. Guests will also have the opportunity to purchase exclusive Mover & Shaker and Chicken Cock Whiskey merchandise.
Friday, March 27 | 8:30 PM – 12:00 AM The Coupe Menu Reveal
Guests are invited to Circa 1856 Louisville for the debut of The Coupe’s brand-new cocktail menu. Bar lead Kelly Nelson will unveil a creative lineup of cocktails designed to highlight Chicken Cock Whiskey, while DJ Meeche keeps the energy high with a live set throughout the evening.
Saturday, March 28 | 12:00 PM – 6:00 PM NuLu Bockfest Celebration
Opening weekend concludes with the neighborhood’s beloved NuLu Bockfest. Chicken Cock Whiskey’s Circa 1856 will sponsor the Chicken Cock Whiskey GOAT Stakes, a lively goat race featuring the brand’s own contender, Whiskey the Kidd. Festivalgoers can also enjoy a rooster-calling contest and a special feature cocktail at Circa 1856 Louisville, created exclusively for the Bockfest celebration.
From Bardstown to Louisville, Chicken Cock Whiskey continues to expand its footprint with welcoming spaces where whiskey lovers can gather, explore, and raise a glass to “The Famous Old Brand.”
Source: BevNET