Corn to Cocktail educates consumers about Indiana corn 

By Katherine Melbert 

Conner Prairie’s “Corn to Cocktail” series blends historical anecdotes, agricultural significance and delicious drinks into engaging classes. Sponsored by the Indiana Corn Marketing Council (ICMC), each Corn to Cocktail highlights a different liquor. Program Developer Kim McCann teaches basic bartending skills and flavor development techniques to create two unique cocktails. 

After observing friends’ intimidation about home-mixology, McCann set out to create something that would offer people tools, knowledge and confidence in making cocktails at home. McCann, a longtime hobby mixologist and historian, took a deep dive into the evolution of spirits and cocktails in 2020, producing the successful “Happy Hour History” online series. 

“Happy Hour History” ultimately evolved into what Corn to Cocktail is today, meaningfully bringing people together to engage in spirits along the supply chain. When asked about inspiration behind the series, McCann shared, “I’m always looking for interconnecting threads that link things together, and there are definite ties between history, corn and alcohol.” 

William Conner, for whom the museum is named, farmed corn, wheat and rye – ultimately selling and shipping these grains in liquid form. Corn to Cocktail expands upon Conner’s legacy to highlight the hard work of Indiana farmers and deep historical roots of spirits. 

Despite Indiana’s rich agricultural history, McCann acknowledges the gap between what consumers purchase and knowledge of where it comes from. Consumers attending the class are often surprised to learn about Indiana’s premier role in alcohol production in the United States. Farmers across the state grow corn for Four Roses Bourbon, Hard Truth Distillery and Barkeep Vodka. 

“Being able to discuss the Indiana corn our spirits come from, connecting a product from store shelf to Hoosier land, is a great reminder of the process and labor that is a forgotten part of our everyday consumption,” McCann affirmed. 

ICMC’s farmer directors attend the Series to educate individuals from Carmel, Indianapolis and Fishers about the importance of Indiana agriculture. 

“We are in the middle of planting season right now, and I was able to explain our farm’s approach,” ICMC President Tim Gauck said. “Many have heard of farmers, but Corn to Cocktail puts a live face to the agricultural industry and educates folks on how corn and farming play a role in their lives.” 

ICMC Director Paul Hodgen echoes the importance of connecting with Corn to Cocktail participants. “This is a great community outreach event,” he said. “We deliver our ICMC message to influential consumers and stakeholders, who will then carry this message out to friends and family.” 

Without the corn checkoff, consumer-facing events like Corn to Cocktail would not be possible. The series provides an educational platform for farmers and consumers alike to learn something new about grain alcohol, agriculture, and its underlying history. McCann is grateful for ICMC’s collaboration and support. 

“In partnership, Conner Prairie raises the value of Indiana corn through connection and education, while ICMC helps the museum in its own mission to enlighten and engage through unique programming,” McCann said. 

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