Preheat the oven to 400F. Add the bacon to a large skillet over medium-high heat. Let crisp for 5 minutes, then add the onion. Let the onion cook for 2 minutes, then add the onion and cook for one minute more.

Add the tomato paste, sugar, cayenne, chili powder, and some salt (especially if you're using low-salt beans) to the onion mixture. Stir to combine and coat the onions with the spices, then reduce the heat to medium-low.

Add the bourbon, vinegar, and stock to the skillet. Stir to combine and let reduce for 3 minutes, then turn the heat off the skillet.

Add the beans with any remaining juices to a large casserole dish. Pour the bacon onion mixture over top. Stir to combine, and taste: the beans will be firm, but add salt to your taste. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 90 minutes or more if needed until the beans are soft and the sauce has thickened. Taste once more, and add more salt or cayenne if you'd like.

Enjoy!