Bourbon Hot Toddy: The Cozy Cocktail You Need This Winter

March 5, 2025February 27, 2025 / bourbonjourney / Leave a comment

In episode 7 of Thirsty Thursday Cocktails, we are crafting a drink that will wrap you in cozy warmth on a chilly evening – the Bourbon Hot Toddy! This timeless classic not only brings comfort but also delights the senses, making it a perfect companion for curling up by the fireplace or enjoying a quiet night in. With its straightforward ingredients, including the rich and smooth bourbon, fragrant honey, zesty lemon, and hot water, it strikes the ideal balance of sweetness and tartness, ensuring a satisfying sip every time. This terrific cocktail is sure to be your go-to evening sipper, providing both refreshment and relief from the cold. Tonight, we will master the Bourbon Hot Toddy cocktail with clear, step-by-step instructions, empowering you to create this delightful drink with confidence and style, perfect for sharing with friends or savoring on your own.

RECIPE:

2 oz. bourbon
1 bar spoon of lemon juice
Dash of Angostura Aromatic Bitters
Dash of cinnamon
Dash of nutmeg
4 oz hot water
2 full bar spoons of honey
Lemon slices and cinnamon sticks, for serving

AMAZON AFFILIATE LINKS (commissions earned):

BAR ITEMS

True Bar Mat: https://amzn.to/4hi23ua

Briout Jigger for Bartending: https://amzn.to/3DUjva3

Briout Bar Spoon: https://amzn.to/3PJMwaN

FOOD OR GARNISHES

Spicy World Cinnamon Sticks 7 Ounce Bag: https://amzn.to/3WuNhIQ

iSpice Premium nutmeg: https://amzn.to/40pzMv7

Angostura Bitters Original and Orange Bitters (Combo- Pack) – 4oz Bottles, Aromatic and Citrus Infused: https://amzn.to/4bkQhO7

GLASSWARE

Godinger Coffee Mugs, Glass Irish Coffee Mug Set: https://amzn.to/3PR51dq

Elijah Craig Barrel Proof Is The BEST SURPRISE In Whiskey

March 5, 2025March 4, 2025 / bourbonjourney / Leave a comment

In this bourbon review episode, we’re diving into the highly anticipated first release of 2025 – the ECBP A125 from Elijah Craig Barrel Proof. As passionate ECBP enthusiasts, it’s remarkable to note that this is our first time grabbing the earliest release of the year! We’ll conduct a comprehensive analysis of this expression, from its captivating nose to the remarkable palate and finish. Join us for our expert insights on this inaugural release of Elijah Craig Barrel Proof for 2025, which boasts a lower age statement and proof than we initially expected.

ABOUT THIS BOTTLE
Classification: Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
Distillery: Heaven Hill
Mash Bill: 78% Corn, 12% Malted Barley, 10% Rye
Age: 10 years, 7 months
Proof: 118.2
MSRP: $74.99
Released: January 2025
Purchased: 02/27/25 for $99.99 at High Spirits in Evansville, IN

AMAZON AFFILIATE LINKS (commissions earned):

GLENCAIRN Whiskey Glass, Gift Set of 4: https://amzn.to/4ak8DOR

CairnCaps Bamboo Whiskey Glass Lids – Set of 6: https://amzn.to/4hgIJh0

CairnCradle Whiskey Glass Rack: https://amzn.to/4amLZ8k

Clove, Gum Vintage Tin, 10 Count: https://amzn.to/3QDA3pT

Unlock the Secrets of Bold Bourbon Bloody Marys!

March 4, 2025February 25, 2025 / bourbonjourney / Leave a comment

In episode 6 of Thirsty Thursday Cocktails, we’re crafting a bold and rich interpretation of the classic Bloody Mary. This time, we’re elevating it with BOURBON! Often referred to as a Bourbon Bloody Mary, a Bloody Marianne, or a Bloody Derby, this cocktail is a game changer. The beauty of the Bourbon Bloody Mary lies in its versatility; you can start with a prepared Bloody Mary mix and effortlessly enhance it with a few careful ingredients to match your taste. Perfect for bourbon enthusiasts, this cocktail transforms the traditional Bloody Mary, as the bourbon introduces a remarkable depth of flavor that’s simply irresistible.

RECIPE & DIRECTIONS:
Optional: Rim Glass with Bacon Salt & Tajín® Clásico Seasoning
In a mixing glass, add:
…6 ounces Bloody Mary mix
…2 ounces bourbon
…3 dashes of Worcestershire sauce
…2-3 dashes of Tajín® Clásico Seasoning
…2-3 dashes of Maple Bacon Salt
…2-3 dashes of celery salt
…2-3 dashes of black pepper
…1/2 teaspoon (or bar spoon) of Prepared Horseradish
…2-3 drops Gravy Master
…2-4 drops of Hot Sauce (to your spice level)
…Squeeze of Fresh Lime
Pour into a prepared highball glass filled with ice and pre-rimmed
Garnish as desired. This can be simple to elaborate!
…Mini Dill Pickle, Stuffed Olives, Cherry Tomato
Enjoy!

AMAZON AFFILIATE LINKS (commissions earned):

18″x12″ PVC Bar Service Mat for Cocktail Bartender: https://amzn.to/42GjdxR

Briout Jigger for Bartending: https://amzn.to/3DUjva3

Mindspace Utensil Holder, Kitchen Condiment Organizer and Flatware Utensil Caddy: https://amzn.to/3ELKvIW

MOFADO. Crystal Cocktail Mixing Glass: https://amzn.to/4jiZ0nl

Highball Drinking Glasses Set of 4: https://amzn.to/41wHOUV

Zing Zang Bloody Mary Mix: https://amzn.to/41oc1Fz

Lea & Perrins Worcestershire Sauce: https://amzn.to/4hK056y

Tajín Clásico Chile Lime Seasoning: https://amzn.to/4k135gp

Smoked Bacon Sea Salt: https://amzn.to/4bayR6S

Cuisinart Maple Bacon Seasoning: https://amzn.to/4k7p2dG

McCormick Celery Salt: https://amzn.to/4i1HeUm

Bookbinder’s Horseradish: https://amzn.to/4k9dGGn

Gravy Master: https://amzn.to/41kbmot

Filthy Cocktail Garnish, Blue Cheese Stuffed Olives: https://amzn.to/4k13CyV

Mezzetta Stuffed Olives, Jalapeno: https://amzn.to/42Z5Ybt

Bourbon Trail Tales & Tastes Episode 8 – New Riff Distilling

March 4, 2025March 4, 2025 / bourbonjourney / Leave a comment

New Riff Distillery: A Memorable 8th Stop on Our Bourbon Journey

In Episode 8 of Bourbon Trail Tales & Tastes, we recount our terrific first visit to New Riff Distillery in Newport, Kentucky. Join us as we vividly remember that day, Sunday, July 31, 2022, which marked our 8th stop on Our Bourbon Journey and our 7th Stamp on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail. We share our insights into the experience available at New Riff Distillery and how they have become a must-stop whenever in Northern Kentucky. To fully immerse ourselves in those cherished memories, we taste from a bottles purchased on that very first visit, Balboa Rye, enabling us to relive the original experience and further enriching our journey with yet another highlight in Our Bourbon Journey.

In this series, Bourbon Trail Tales & Tastes, we navigate the rich tapestry of our memorable experiences on the Bourbon Trail, a journey that has undeniably enriched our appreciation for this iconic American spirit. We tackle intriguing questions such as: What stands out as the most profound memory of that bourbon trail experience, one that has etched itself firmly in our minds? What exceptional and bourbon or whiskey did we discover during this journey, perhaps one that surprised us with its intricate and delightful flavor profiles? What lasting impressions do we have of that bourbon or whiskey today, as we reflect on its complexities and how they resonate with our evolving palates and preferences? Through this exploration, we passionately recount our adventures and celebrate the stories and connections we’ve forged along the way, highlighting the essence of the Bourbon Trail.

ABOUT THE BOTTLE: Balboa Rye Whiskey
Type: Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey
Distillery:New Distillery
Mashbill: 95% Balboa Rye, 5% Malted Barley
Other: Bottled in Bond
Age: 4 Years
Proof: 100
Price Paid: $47.99

Bourbon Hot Chocolate: The Cozy Cocktail You Didn’t Know You Needed

March 3, 2025February 25, 2025 / bourbonjourney / Leave a comment

In episode 5 of Thirsty Thursday Cocktails, we’re crafting an alluring Hot Chocolate Bourbon Kiss Cocktail! While the rich, bold bourbon takes center stage, every sip is infused with a symphony of flavors that will awaken your senses and delight your palate. Decadent white chocolate liqueur, exquisitely barrel-aged maple syrup, and enchanting chocolate bitters create a captivating mélange that ignites your senses. Elevate your experience with optional garnishes like luscious Ghirardelli Caramel and Chocolate Sauces, fluffy Whipped Cream, aromatic Cinnamon, and a vibrant Maraschino Cherry! This recipe celebrates the artistry of creating a truly special bourbon cocktail. In this episode, this seductive drink is elegantly served in a stunning cut glass Irish Coffee Mug, adding a touch of sophistication to any celebration.

RECIPE:
1.5 Ounces of Bourbon
.5 Ounce of White Chocolate Liqueur
<.5 Ounce of Bourbon Barrel Aged Maple Syrup
4 Dashes of Aztec Chocolate Bitters
Hot Chocolate to Fill
Garnish with Whipped Cream, A Dash of Cinnamon, and a Maraschino Cherry

AMAZON AFFILIATE LINKS (commissions earned):

18″x12″ PVC Bar Service Mat for Cocktail Bartender: https://amzn.to/42GjdxR

Briout Jigger for Bartending: https://amzn.to/3DUjva3

Mindspace Utensil Holder, Kitchen Condiment Organizer and Flatware Utensil Caddy: https://amzn.to/3ELKvIW

Bourbon Barrel Maple Syrup: https://amzn.to/40Cb2AU

Fee Brothers Aztec Chocolate Cocktail Bitters: https://amzn.to/3ClJ43e

Godinger Coffee Mugs, Glass Irish Coffee Mug Set: https://amzn.to/3PR51dq

Ghirardelli Squeeze Bottles – Caramel, Chocolate & White Chocolate – Set of 3: https://amzn.to/4aYwFiu

Milk Frothing Pitcher Stainless Steel: https://amzn.to/3Qj3IEy

Coffee Mug Warmer: https://amzn.to/4jVK7rC

Roland Premium Maraschino Cherries With Stems: https://amzn.to/4gJ221M

Bourbon Trail Tales & Tastes Episode 7 – Neeley Family Distillery

March 3, 2025February 25, 2025 / bourbonjourney / Leave a comment

Is Neely Family Distillery a Must-Visit?

In Episode 7 of Bourbon Trail Tales & Tastes, we recount our amazing first visit to Neeley Family Distillery in Sparta, Kentucky. Join us as we vividly remember that awesome day, July 29, 2022, which marked our 6th stop (and stamp) on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail. We enthusiastically share our insights into the experience available at Neeley Family Distillery and how they have come to be great friends. To fully immerse ourselves in those cherished memories, we finish the final sips from two bottles purchased on that very first visit, enabling us to relive the original experience and further enriching our journey with yet another highlight in Our Bourbon Journey.

ABOUT BOTTLE 1: Breakfast in Kentucky
Type: Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
Distillery: Neeley Family Distillery
Mashbill: 76% Corn, 19% Wheat, 5% Malted Barley (Yeast A-1)
Process: Triple Pot Distilled, Sweet Mash, Non Chill Filtered
Barrel: #638, Char 2, 25 Gal
Age: 32 Months
Proof: 109.5
Price Paid: $39.99 375 ml

ABOUT BOTTLE 2: Rich Rye Bourbon (Wayne bottle-your-own)
Type: Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
Distillery: Neeley Family Distillery
Mashbill: 67% Corn, 25% Rye, 8% Malted Barley (Yeast A-1)
Process: Triple Pot Distilled, Sweet Mash, Non Chill Filtered
Barrel: #614, Char 2, 30 Gal
Age: 32 Months
Proof: 107.4
Price Paid: $39.99 375 ml

5 Minutes to Make an AMAZING Chocolate Covered Cherry Cocktail

March 2, 2025February 25, 2025 / bourbonjourney / Leave a comment

In episode 4 of Thirsty Thursday Cocktails, we’re creating a cocktail that sets the perfect mood for Valentine’s Day – a Chocolate Covered Cherry Bourbon Cocktail! Inspired by the exquisite cherry cordial candies, this recipe guarantees an intoxicating aroma, rich flavor, and luxurious mouthfeel that mirrors the delights of the candies. Whether you choose to serve it neat in a coupe glass or over an ice ball in a rocks glass, this drink radiates sophistication. In this episode, we’re opting for a coupe glass to showcase the stunning dark red color and elegance of the cocktail.

RECIPE:
1.5 Ounces of Bourbon
.75 Ounce of Creme de Cacao
4 Dashes of Aztec Chocolate Bitters
4 Dashes of Cherry Bitters
2 Bar Spoons of Luxardo Cherry Syrup
1 Luxardo Cherry for Garnish

AMAZON AFFILIATE LINKS (commissions earned):

18″x12″ PVC Bar Service Mat for Cocktail Bartender: https://amzn.to/42GjdxR

MOFADO. Crystal Cocktail Mixing Glass: https://amzn.to/4jiZ0nl

Briout Bar Spoon: https://amzn.to/3PJMwaN

Briout Jigger for Bartending: https://amzn.to/3DUjva3

Julep Strainer: https://amzn.to/3EgYxSJ

Libbey Signature Kentfield Coupe Cocktail Glasses Set of 4: https://amzn.to/4gkKKI0

Fee Brothers Aztec Chocolate Cocktail Bitters: https://amzn.to/3ClJ43e

Fee Brothers Cherry Cocktail Bitters: https://amzn.to/42otmPk

Luxardo Gourmet Cocktail Maraschino Cherries: https://amzn.to/3Wl8C7A

Bourbon Trail Tales & Tastes Episode 6 – Hard Truth Distilling

March 2, 2025February 25, 2025 / bourbonjourney / Leave a comment

Is Hard Truth Distillery The BEST Kept Secret on the Bourbon Trail?

In Episode 6 of Bourbon Trail Tales & Tastes, we recount our amazing first visit to Hard Truth Distillery in Nashville, Indiana. Join us as we vividly remember that beautiful day, May 22, 2022, which marked our inaugural visit to an Indiana distillery. We enthusiastically share our insights into the experiences available at Hard Truth, showcasing everything their campus has to offer. To fully immerse ourselves in those cherished memories, we uncork a bottle of Sipes Smoked Rye Whiskey, purchased on that memorable visit, enabling us to relive the original experience and further enriching our journey with yet another highlight in Our Bourbon Journey.

SIPES’ BARREL SMOKED STRAIGHT RYE WHISKEY

Sipes’ Rye Whiskey is a premium, four-year-old rye whiskey finished in custom hardwood-smoked barrels, blended, and bottled in the Hard Truth Distilling Co. rackhouse and distillery in Brown County, Indiana.

Age: 4 years

Finished: hardwood smoked barrels, blended, and bottled by Hard Truth Distilling Co.

Proof: 90

Paid: $57.99

First Tasted: 02/02/25

Bourbon Lovers Rejoice! The Boulevardier Recipe You Need

March 1, 2025February 28, 2025 / bourbonjourney / Leave a comment

In episode 3 of Thirsty Thursday Cocktails, we’re crafting the ultimate Bourbon Based Boulevardier, pronounced: BOOL-LUH-VARRR DEE-AY. This bourbon-based Boulevardier is bold and warming—a drink you’ll eagerly reach for on a crisp fall or winter evening. Originating from 1927, this classic cocktail combines bourbon, sweet vermouth, and Campari to perfection. Whether served neat in a coupe glass or over an ice ball in a rocks glass, this drink exudes sophistication. In this episode, we’re opting for a coupe glass to enhance the warmth and elegance of the cocktail.

RECIPE:
1.5 Ounces of Bourbon
1 Ounce of Sweet Vermouth
1 Ounce of Campari
Fresh Orange Peel for Garnish

AMAZON AFFILIATE LINKS (commissions earned):

True Bar Mat: https://amzn.to/4hi23ua

MOFADO. Crystal Cocktail Mixing Glass: https://amzn.to/4jiZ0nl

Briout Bar Spoon: https://amzn.to/3PJMwaN

Briout Jigger for Bartending: https://amzn.to/3DUjva3

Julep Strainer: https://amzn.to/3EgYxSJ

A Bar Above Professional Quality Citrus Peeler: https://amzn.to/40RBwi9

Libbey Signature Kentfield Coupe Cocktail Glasses Set of 4: https://amzn.to/4gkKKI0

Bourbon & Whiskey News: February 2025

March 1, 2025 / bourbonjourney / Leave a comment

03/01/25
Curated by Rebecca Herman McBrayer

Bourbon & Whiskey Industry Highlights from February 2025 >> 49 Stories!

In February 2025, the bourbon and whiskey industry faced challenges, including potential trade wars affecting sales. Noteworthy developments included India reducing tariffs and significant growth for various distilleries. The Kentucky Bourbon Trail expanded, and new bottle releases were highlighted, showcasing the industry’s resilience and innovation amidst an evolving market landscape.

Industry Market News & Related Announcements >> 5 Stories

Feb 3: In Kentucky bourbon country, the prospect of a trade war feels like a hangover that won’t go away

Feb 10: Bourbon Spirits Market Outlook 2025-2034: Key Trends, Growth Drivers, and Market Share

Feb 11: An unwanted double: US sales fall for American whiskeys as threats of a trade war heat up

Feb 14: America’s Bourbon Whiskey Gets Sweet Deal As India Slashes Tariffs From 150% To 50%

Feb 20: Bourbon Whiskey Market Is Booming So Rapidly | Four Roses, Michter’s Distillery, Beam Suntory

Distillery News >> 17 Stories

Feb 4: Holladay Distillery breaks ground on ironclad rickhouse in latest growth spurt

Feb 5: Jeptha Creed Reports Growth During Whiskey Downturn

Feb 5: Oregon makes history with first tribal distillery

Feb 5: Kentucky Bourbon Distillery Installs First Phase of $2M On-Site Solar Array

Feb 5: Western Wisconsin distillery scene: The craft, the business, the drinks — and the people who help make it run