In this bourbon review episode, we showcase a remarkable find that took us by surprise – Stagg 24D, an unanticipated fourth release. Historically, Stagg has delighted enthusiasts with three annual releases (A, B, C), making this unexpected addition a thrilling revelation. While we haven’t actively pursued Stagg in the past, discovering this unique bottle during a recent trip to Louisville was exhilarating. We will thoroughly analyze every aspect, from its captivating nose to its impressive palate and finish. Join us as we share our in-depth insights on this exceptional surprise release of Stagg.
ABOUT THIS BOTTLE Classification: Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey Company: Sazerac Company Distillery: Buffalo Trace Distillery Mash Bill Percentages: Undisclosed Age: NAS (at least 4 years; rumored to be around 7-9 years old) Proof: 127.4 MSRP: $70 Released: Bottled in December 2024 but released in January 2025 Other: Barrel Proof, Unfiltered Purchased: 02/21/25 for $99.99 at Neat Bar & Bottle Shop in Louisville KY
Our Unforgettable First Trip to Heaven Hill Distillery
In Episode 5 of Bourbon Trail Tales & Tastes, we proudly recount our unforgettable first visit to Heaven Hill Distillery in Bardstown, Kentucky. Join us as we remember that beautiful day, April 24, 2022. This day marked our fifth stop on our inaugural weekend of the Kentucky Bourbon Trail, where we collected our 5th stamp in our trail book. We share invaluable insights about the experiences available at Heaven Hill with a focus on “You Do Bourbon.” To enhance our memories, we open a bottle of Bernheim Wheat Whiskey that Rebecca bottled that day, allowing us to relive the original experience and explore all that it has to offer, adding yet another highlight to 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.
Bernheim Original Wheat Whiskey
Company/Distillery: Heaven Hill
Like the original, Bernheim Barrel Proof is produced at the Bernheim Distillery and is the first wheat whiskey to use winter wheat as its primary grain, giving it a soft, sweet flavor that’s extra smooth.
Each offering is aged for seven to nine years in our open-air rickhouses.
This is a chance to experience our unique wheat mashbill in its pure form: non-chill filtered and bottled at barrel proof.
Classification: Straight Wheat Whiskey
By definition, wheat whiskey is similar to the definition of bourbon whiskey, except that it swaps bourbon’s minimum 51% corn requirement for a minimum 51% wheat requirement.
Wheat whiskey does not need to be a product of the United States.
To be labelled “straight” wheat whiskey must be aged in new charred oak containers for at least two years and the product of a single state.
Mashbill: 51% Wheat, 37% Corn, 12% Malted Barley
Barrel Proof: 110
Age: 7 Years
Release Date: Special: 04/24/22 (You Do Bourbon / Bottle Your Own)
Your Bourbon Journey 