Houston, TX

I was invited to the Lucchese suit to have a drink and watch the Lainey Wilson Rodeo Houston show.  Having dinner the night prior with them, it was a no-brainer.  Great people and 100% Country Music ambassadors.  I wanted to get up there early to watch the three rodeo events I can usually catch before the act goes on.  I didn’t grow up in the rodeo world.  I only own one pair of boots.  Thank goodness they’re Lucchese’s!  But I so enjoy watching some of the events, namely the Chuck Wagon races, Calve Scramble and Mutton Bustin’.  The roar of the record 75,000 in attendance is contagious.   

A little background on Rodeo Houston.  It is a yearly event that lasts for 20 days and draws more than 2.5 million folks. Like most things in Texas, it is large. It is a tournament style rodeo, inside NRG Stadium, that crown event champions in Bareback Riding, Bull Riding, Steer Wrestling, Saddle Bronc, etc… It is a major event and draws the nations top talent.  Big prestige and big money on the line. 

When Lainey’s set concludes, they invite me to dinner with them.  It’s just a short walk from the stadium but boy is it crowded. We eventually make our way to the Ranch Saloon and Steakhouse.  A first of its kind full-service restaurant and bar in a 16,000 square foot climate-controlled tent.  We are sitting at the Lucchese Table, which they have sponsored for the length of the rodeo. I was handed a cocktail menu and what do I immediately eye? The Lucchese Old Fashioned!  Of course, my decision had been made. 

It was a simple blend of Maker’s Mark, Angostura Bitters and Simple Syrup served over a large square cube.  I asked the waiter if he could substitute something in place of the Maker’s, perhaps a high proof Rye.  He remarked that he would surprise me.  When he returned, he told me he had substituted it with a Weller 12 year.  Normally, I would drink that neat, but I was not hating on it in the least.  Simple, delicious, and refreshing.

After dinner, I rode back to the hotel with this group.  They had a private boot fitting with Drake.  I saw these folks go from party mode one second and into work mode the next, never missing a beat.  Impressive and fun to watch.

If there is ever a chance to go to Rodeo Houston, I will tell you to take it.  Aside form the rodeo events, there is a giant midway and a ton more to see and do. And if you’re into a giant tent of a steakhouse, they’ve got you covered.  Honestly, it was better than many steakhouses I’ve frequented.  Tell them The Nashville Whiskey Guy sent you and grab a Lucchese Old Fashioned.