In an effort to help those impacted by COVID-19, I’m contributing tips to a featured bartender each week for every neat pour or cocktail I post on social media. It’s not an original idea; it’s simply my Turkey spin on it.

This week I’m adopting Luke Zabor. Luke is the bar manager at Alley Twenty Six in Durham, North Carolina, which specializes in cocktails with local and historical influences. Whether crafting new drinks or working with tried-and-true classics, Wild Turkey 101 is his “go to” bourbon – has been for years.

Luke Zabor

Luke started bartending at the age of 21. He bounced from small mom & pop bars to fine dining establishments, but it wasn’t until he landed at Alley Twenty Six that he found the appreciation of bourbon and American rye whiskey he’d been looking for. Soon after, he attended Behind the Barrel in Lawrenceburg, Kentucky, which made a lasting impression.

The hospitality and family-oriented event was one of, if not the greatest moment of my bartending career. The amount of passion, care, love, and history put into Wild Turkey brands and products puts them above so many distilleries – not to mention they do an incredible job reaching and educating bartenders.

I invite you to join me in adopting Luke this week. All it takes to tip is a simple contribution to the following PayPal Pool (public and anonymous options available): 

This pool has ended, but you can still help Luke out via Venmo: @jlzabor

Remember – every penny counts. No amount is too little and will go a long way in helping Luke in this time of uncertainty. Also, it’s important that I mention that 100% of your donation will be forwarded directly to Luke at week’s end. No reductions. No gimmicks. You have my promise.

Thanks for your consideration. Together, through compassion and unity, we will overcome these hard times. We’ll prevail as we always do and be all the better for it.

Cheers and thank you all!

David J.

Photos courtesy of Luke Zabor