Month: November 2025

Best RYE Whiskey? Blind Taste Test 5 Bottles!

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🥃 Blind Rye Whiskey Battle: Which Bottle is the Champion?

Join Wayne and Rebecca from Your Bourbon Journey as they go WAY off the beaten path for an epic blind rye whiskey tasting! Can these bourbon lovers pick their favorite rye when they don’t know what’s in the glass? Five incredible bottles are in the running, each with a unique mash bill and proof point. The results are surprising, revealing a range of flavors from chocolate malt and coffee to floral notes and citrusy orange!

Watch as we blindly review and rank:

  • Bardstown Bourbon Co. Origin Series Rye (96 Proof): The double-barreled rye finished in Toasted Cherry Wood and Oak. 
  • Hard Truth Chocolate Malt Rye (109.6 Proof): A unique rye with a high percentage of Chocolate Malted Barley that tastes like an “after dinner coffee drink!” 
  • Neeley Family Distillery Sweet Thumped Rye (108.9 Proof): The only Single Barrel in the group, praised for its pure sweet mash profile. 
  • New Riff Balboa Rye Bottled in Bond (100 Proof): Featuring the heirloom Balboa Rye grain. 
  • Tom’s Town Straight Rye Bottled in Bond (100 Proof): A Bottled-in-Bond rye with distinct citrus notes, perfect for a cocktail! 

From high-rye Balboa to the unique chocolate malt, which bottle takes home the title of our personal favorite sipper? You won’t believe the final scores! Plus, we give a shoutout to the perfect bottle for making an amazing Manhattan!

Let us know in the comments: Have you tried any of these ryes? What are your favorite tasting notes in a rye whiskey?

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NOTE: The spirit in this review was purchased by us. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is simply our opinion based on what we tasted on this day. Please drink responsibly.

#RyeWhiskey #blindtasting #whiskeytasting #WhiskeyReview #HardTruthDistilling BardstownBourbonCo #NewRiff #NeelyFamilyDistillery #TomsTown #RyeLife #BourbonVsRye #CraftWhiskey #bottledinbond #RyeCocktails #ChocolateMaltRye 

Cozy Up: The Best Autumn Bourbon Cocktail

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🔥 The Bonfire Old Fashioned: Get Cozy with this Smoky Fall Cocktail (Thirsty Thursday Episode 44)

Dive into the cozy vibes of autumn with the Bonfire Old Fashioned! In this episode of Thirsty Thursday Cocktails,  we share Part 2 of our fall series which is a rich, smoky, and perfectly balanced twist on the classic Old Fashioned. It truly tastes like sitting next to a crackling campfire.

We’re breaking out the cocktail smoker and oak chips to infuse our drink with a deep, warming smokiness that pairs beautifully with the sweet, caramel notes of Russell’s Reserve 10-Year-Old Bourbon and Bourbon Barrel Aged Maple Syrup. The secret ingredient? Spicy Bonfire Bitters that deliver a pleasant heat on the finish, completing this complex, autumnal masterpiece.

This is a quintessential fall drink perfect for warming up as the weather cools down. Learn how to craft this elevated cocktail right in your glass—no shaker needed!

🥃 The Bonfire Old Fashioned Recipe:

  • 2 oz Russell’s Reserve 10-Year-Old Bourbon
  • 0.25 oz Bourbon Barrel Aged Maple Syrup
  • 2 Dashes Strongwater Bonfire Bitters 
  • 1 Dash Orange Bitters
  • Method: Stir, Smoke with Oak Chips, Add Ice Ball, Enjoy!

🛍️ Tools & Ingredients Used in the Video:

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125 Proof Woodford Rye! Fresh Crack & Tasting Notes

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🥃 Woodford Reserve Barrel Strength Rye Review | First EVER High Proof Rye from Woodford! (Distiller’s Select)

Join Wayne and Rebecca on Your Bourbon Journey as they do a fresh crack and whiskey tasting of the Woodford Reserve Barrel Strength Rye! This limited edition Distiller’s Select release is a game-changer for Woodford Reserve—it’s their first-ever high-proof rye whiskey, bottled at a powerful 125.1 proof!

Are these high-proof whiskey lovers (who usually skip the 90.4 proof standard Woodford) impressed by this Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey? Find out as they dive into the complex flavor profile, nose, and finish of this new, hard-to-find bottle.

From the intriguing 53% rye mash bill and beautiful color to unexpected notes of orange zest and clove, tune in to see if this barrel strength rye is a must-buy and if it makes the cut for their Whiskey of the Month selection!

Key Takeaways from this Whiskey Review:

  • Proof Point: A robust 125.1—a massive step up from Woodford’s standard.
    Tasting Notes: Discover the surprising orange marmalade and clove notes, along with classic rye spice and black pepper.
  • Value: Is this $129.99 MSRP limited edition rye worth the hype and the price?
  • Mash Bill: Learn how the 53% Rye, 33% Corn, 14% Malted Barley blend impacts the taste.

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📝 Woodford Reserve Barrel Strength Rye Details

  • Classification: Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey
  • Company: Brown-Forman
  • Distillery: Woodford Reserve
  • Mash Bill: 53% Rye, 33% Corn, 14% Malted Barley
  • Age: NAS (likely 4-6 years)
  • Proof: 125.1 (Barrel Strength)
  • MSRP: $129.99 (700ml)
  • Released: 10/2/2025
  • Other: Limited Edition, Distiller’s Select, first high-proof rye
  • Purchased: 10/29/25 for $120 at Archie & Clyde’s in Newburgh, IN

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NOTE: The spirit in this review was purchased by us. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is simply our opinion based on what we tasted on this day. Please drink responsibly.

#woodfordreserve #BarrelStrengthRye #WhiskeyReview #RyeWhiskey #HighProofWhiskey #bourbonjourney #DistillersSelect #whiskeytasting #KentuckyRye #NewWhiskey #LimitedEdition #WhiskeyLife #bourbon #BrownForman #FreshCrack 

Four Roses OESV 126 Proof: Bourbon Trail Tale & Review 

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🔥 Four Roses!  Distillery Stop 41 of 42 on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail PLUS an OESV Private Selection Review!

Join Wayne and Rebecca from Your Bourbon Journey as they recount their momentous 49th new distillery visit to the beautiful Four Roses Distillery in Lawrenceburg, Kentucky! This stop was a critical step on their journey, leading them right up to the final stamp on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail (KBT Stamp 41!).

Wayne and Rebecca also share their insider experience from the gorgeous Four Roses campus, their memorable tour with guide Gracie, and the fascinating history of the adjacent Rick houses now owned by Wild Turkey. Plus, they share a fun bit of Kentucky bourbon trivia by hunting down the McBrayer, Kentucky sign—a nod to the family’s deep roots in the area’s distilling history!

The episode features a detailed tasting and review of a sought-after Four Roses Private Selection Single Barrel bottle—hand-selected by Master Distiller Brent Elliott himself! They dive deep into the tasting notes of this particular OESV mash bill expression (75% Corn, 20% Rye, 5% Malted Barley) that clocks in at a robust 126 Proof.

Tasting Highlights:

  • Nose: The “lower rye” mash bill combines with the ‘V’ delicate fruit yeast to present notes of springtime freshness, cinnamon, and confectionary sugar.
  • Palate: The experience shifts to a darker, more savory profile with welcome spicy notes, caramel, black pepper, and a surprising rye component.

This is a must-watch for fans of Four Roses, single barrel bourbons, and anyone following the Kentucky Bourbon Trail journey! Don’t miss their discussion on the 10 Four Roses Recipes and the unique flavor profiles of each!

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✴️ Four Roses Private Selection Single Barrel OESV

  • Classification: Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
  • Distillery: Four Roses
  • Mash Bill: (OESV) 75% Corn, 20% Rye, 5% Malted Barley
  • Age: 10 Years, 1 Month
  • Proof: 126
  • Purchased: 05/21/23 for $99 at Four Roses Distillery in Lawrenceburg, KY

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NOTE: The spirit in this review was purchased by us. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is simply our opinion based on what we tasted on this day. Please drink responsibly.

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SWEETEST ECBP? Elijah Craig C925 129 Proof Bourbon! 

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🥳 Elijah Craig Barrel Proof C925: First Single-Digit Age Statement! | Sweet & Bright Bourbon Review 🥃

Welcome to Your Bourbon Journey! In this exciting whiskey review, Wayne and Rebecca finally crack open the highly anticipated Elijah Craig Barrel Proof Batch C925—the final release of 2025!

This batch is already making waves in the bourbon community because it’s the first-ever ECBP release since 2013 to carry a “single-digit” age statement: 9 Years, 1 Month! Does a slightly younger age compromise the classic profile, or does it bring a new, sweeter dimension?

We’ll take a deep dive into the specs, the nose, the palate, and the finish of this 129 Proof Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey from Heaven Hill.

✨ Why This Batch is Unique

This C925 stands out not just for its age but for its tasting experience. As long-time ECBP fans, we compare it to the B525 and other past batches, finding it a uniquely sweeter pour that might be perfect for those who typically find Elijah Craig Barrel Proof too heavy on the oak. Could this be the batch to convert a wheated bourbon fan?

🔍 Elijah Craig Tasting Notes

Flavor Profile: The younger age seems to shift the profile, bringing forward notes of confectionary sugar and cherry sweetness, making it lighter, brighter, and an interesting outlier that leans toward a “wheater-like” experience despite its traditional mash bill. It’s a surprisingly smooth and calm sipper for the high proof, with heat developing mid-palate before fading slowly.

🎯 Blind Tasting Challenge!

Stay tuned! We’re planning a blind tasting showdown in December with all three 2025 Elijah Craig Barrel Proof releases (A125, B525, and C925) to see which batch truly reigns supreme this year!

Did you find a bottle of C925? Let us know what you think in the comments!

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✴️ Elijah Craig Barrel Proof Batch C925

  • Classification: Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
  • Distillery: Heaven Hill Distillery
  • Mash Bill: 78% Corn, 12% Malted Barley, 10% Rye
  • Age: 9 Years, 1 Month
  • Proof: 129
  • MSRP: $75
  • Released: September 2025; Final Batch of 2025
  • Other: This is the first time since the ECBP series began in 2013 that a batch has carried an age statement under 10 years (a “single digit” age statement).
  • Purchased: 10/29/25 for $65 at Archie & Clyde’s in Newburgh, IN

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NOTE: The spirit in this review was purchased by us. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is simply our opinion based on what we tasted on this day. Please drink responsibly.


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Tasting 1976 Old Charter: Bourbon History in a Mini Bottle! 

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🥃 Sipping on History: 1976 Old Charter 7 Year – Vintage Bourbon Review (Schenley Era Dusty Bottle)

Join Wayne and Rebecca on “Sipping on History” as we unearth a true relic of American whiskey: a rare, vintage Old Charter 7 Year Old, 86 Proof Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey bottled in the mid-1970s!

This isn’t your modern Buffalo Trace-produced Old Charter—this $1/4$ pint “dusty bottle” dates back to the Schenley Distillers era and was distilled no later than 1969 at the historic Bernheim Distillery in Louisville, KY. This bourbon is a tangible piece of the Bourbon Glut Era!

What We Taste & Discuss:

  • Tasting Notes: We explore the distinct flavor profile of 70s bourbon, including surprising viscosity, notes of butterscotch and pear, a complex savory palate, and a rye kick that hints at a classic high-rye mashbill (estimated 18-35% rye).
  • The History: Learn why the 1970s was a fascinating time for whiskey, the significance of the “For Sale in Indiana Only” label, and the journey of the Old Charter brand from Schenley to Sazerac/Buffalo Trace.
  • Proof vs. Flavor: Does 86 proof still pack a punch? We discuss why these vintage, long-aged bourbons often drink with more body and complexity than modern equivalents.

Don’t miss this rare opportunity to taste a piece of distilling history! 

Bottle Details:

  • Brand: Old Charter Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
  • Vintage/Bottled: Est. 1976 (Distilled no later than 1969)
  • Distiller (Era): Bernheim Distillery (for Schenley Distillers)
  • Age/Proof: 7 Years / 86 Proof
  • Rarity: $1/4$ Pint (4 oz) with “For sale in Indiana Only” label
  • Sourced From: Revival Vintage Spirits, Covington, KY (https://revivalky.com/)

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NOTE: The spirit in this review was purchased by us. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is simply our opinion based on what we tasted on this day. Please drink responsibly.

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Rye Whiskey Cocktail | The Dirty Manhattan Secret

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Welcome to Thirsty Thursday Cocktails: Episode 43! 🍸 Ready to embrace the cozy flavors of the season? We are kicking off our 4-part Fall Cocktail Series with a modern twist on a timeless classic: The Dirty Cardamom Manhattan. This isn’t your grandfather’s Manhattan—this sophisticated, spirit-forward drink is rich, spicy, and perfectly embodies fall cocktail season!

In this video, I (Rebecca from Bourbon Journey) guide you through creating this amazing Manhattan variation using premium ingredients that sing of autumn. We’re getting dirty with a splash of Luxardo Cherry Brine and adding a warm, aromatic layer with Cardamom Bitters.

We feature the Bardstown Origin Series Rye Whiskey (96 Proof!)—chosen for its spicy, cherry wood base—perfectly complimented by the nutty, clove, and cinnamon notes of the Valdespino Sweet Vermouth. You’ll learn the proper cocktail stirring technique to ensure the perfect chill and dilution for this rye whiskey cocktail.

Stay tuned for our whole Fall Cocktail Series! Next week, we’re featuring the Bonfire Old Fashioned! Cheers to the most fabulous Thirsty Thursday! Remember to always drink responsibly.

🥃 The Dirty Cardamom Manhattan Recipe

  • Rye Whiskey: 2 oz Bardstown Origin Series Rye
    • Note: Spicy, cherry wood base, 96 proof
  • Sweet Vermouth: 1 oz Valdespino Sweet Vermouth
    • Note: Sherry-influenced with nutty, orange, clove, and cinnamon spice
  • Dirty Element: 0.25 oz Luxardo Cherry Brine
  • Bitters: 2 dashes Cardamom Bitters
  • Garnish: 1-2 Luxardo Cherries

🛒 Featured Cocktail Ingredients & Tools

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NOTE: The spirits and items in this review were purchased by us. We were not compensated by the producers for this review. Please drink responsibly.

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The INFINITE BOURBON: Little Book 2025 Release Review

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🥃 Little Book “The Infinite” Edition 2 (2025) Review: A Generational Blend Evolves! | Bourbon Journey

Get ready to dive deep into one of the most exciting annual releases in American Whiskey! In this video, Wayne and Rebecca from Bourbon Journey pour, nose, and taste the highly-anticipated Little Book “The Infinite” Edition 2 (2025).

Crafted by 8th Generation Master Distiller Freddie Noe, this Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey is a true generational blend, marrying whiskeys distilled by his Grandaddy Booker Noe, his father Fred Noe, and himself. It’s an infinity barrel concept brought to the masses, with each annual release evolving and maturing as new liquids are carefully added.

🌟 Tasting & Analysis: Is Edition 2 the BEST Little Book?

Edition 2 builds on the foundation of the original blend, but Freddie has added new bourbons to accentuate specific notes:

  • Booker’s Bourbon brings pronounced Oak Char and Smoke.
  • Fred’s Bourbon adds rich Vanilla, Caramel, and Dark Stone Fruit.
  • Freddie’s Bourbon introduces a Brightness with notes of Fresh Apple and Pear.

At a robust 120.4 Proof (Uncut & Unfiltered), this high-proof bourbon delivers a memorable experience. We find it to be a barrel-forward, savory pour with a surprising depth and a long, lingering finish of cinnamon and black pepper. Is it better than the first edition? We think so! The new blend brings more complexity and a beautifully viscous mouthfeel.

This limited release is a must-try for any serious bourbon collector or fan of Jim Beam products like Booker’s and Knob Creek. We share our honest thoughts on the flavor profile, the evolution of the blend, and whether this $200 MSRP bottle is worth the splurge.

Have you tried any of the Little Book releases? Let us know in the comments if you prefer The Infinite Edition 2 or Edition 1!

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✴️ Little Book “The Infinite” Edition 2 (2025)

  • Classification: Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
  • Distillery: James B. Beam
  • Likely blended from the two Beam bourbon mashbills:
  • Dominant: 75% Corn, 13% Rye, 12% Malted Barley (used for Jim Beam White Label, Black, Booker’s, Knob Creek, Baker’s)
  • Secondary: 63% Corn, 27% Rye, 10% Malted Barley (used for Old Grand-Dad, Basil Hayden’s).
  • Age: NAS (Edition 1 was 7-20 years)
  • Proof: 120.4
  • MSRP: $200
  • Released: Fall 2025
  • Purchased: 10/24/25 for $249.99 at High Spirits Liquor in Evansville, IN

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NOTE: The spirit in this review was purchased by us. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is simply our opinion based on what we tasted on this day. Please drink responsibly.

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Limestone Branch Distillery: Finishing the KY Craft Trail!

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🥃 Uncorking History & Flavor: Yellowstone Hand Picked Single Barrel Review! 🤩

Wayne and Rebecca of Your Bourbon Journey take you back to a momentous day at Limestone Branch Distillery in Lebanon, KY! Join us for Episode 44 of Bourbon Trail Tales and Tastes as we recount the exciting story of completing the Kentucky Bourbon Trail Craft Tour and, finally, taste a special bottle: a Yellowstone Hand Picked Collection Single Barrel Bourbon!

This isn’t just a review; it’s a trip down memory lane! Learn about the rich Yellowstone bourbon history, our unique distillery tour experience, and our unforgettable meeting with master distiller Stephen Beam. This particular bottle, named “Some Things are Meant to Be” (Barrel No. 7945735), was a celebratory purchase and an employee pick—and we’re finally cracking it open!

Hear our thoughts on this Limestone Branch Distillery single barrel, a true testament to the quality of the Yellowstone Hand Picked Collection (the red label bottles!). We also reminisce about the amazing hospitality, the legendary Chase and Char (the distillery Chows!), and why we highly recommend a stop at this essential craft distillery.

Don’t Miss This!

  • How we became the first to complete the Central Craft Trail at Limestone Branch! (Spoiler: there was drama!)
  • Stories about the distillery’s history and its connection to the Old Trump brand.
  • Why the Minor Case Rye lounge and patio is the perfect place to enjoy a cigar and a drink.
  • A shoutout to the incredible brand ambassador, Steven Fonte!

Bourbon Review & Details

Discover the tasting notes and dive into the specifics of this exquisite Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey. Tasting Notes: We find luscious, soft, and creamy notes with distinct toasted cherry, vanilla, and a hint of cinnamon and black pepper on the lingering finish.

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ABOUT THE BOTTLE REVIEWED

✴️ Yellowstone Hand Picked Collection

  • Classification: Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
  • Bottled By: Limestone Branch Distillery
  • Mash Bill: (likely) 75% Corn, 13% Rye, 12% Malted Barley
  • Age: NAS (barreled 02/20/18)
  • Proof: 115
  • Name: Some Things are Meant to Be
  • Single Barrel No: 7945735
  • Purchased: 05/20/23 for $79.99 at Limestone Branch Distillery in Lebanon, KY

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NOTE: The spirit in this review was purchased by us. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is simply our opinion based on what we tasted on this day. Please drink responsibly.

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Booker’s “Jerry’s Batch” 2025-03: The BEST of the Year?

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🥃 Booker’s Bourbon “Jerry’s Batch” 2025-03 Review: A Fruity, Creamy, and Unique Barrel-Proof Pour! 🍒

Get ready to uncork a piece of Jim Beam history! In this exciting review, Wayne and Rebecca from Your Bourbon Journey dive into the highly anticipated third release of the year: Booker’s 2025-03 “Jerry’s Batch”. This unique, uncut, and unfiltered Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey is a special tribute to Jerry Dalton, the only non-Beam family Master Distiller at the distillery, and a close friend and mentor to Booker and Fred Noe.

We share the fascinating story behind the name—from Jerry’s days as a chemist living behind the Noe family to becoming a key figure who steered the ship between Booker’s retirement and Fred’s takeover. Plus, we celebrate Jerry’s overdue induction into the Kentucky Bourbon Hall of Fame!

This particular batch is a master blend of barrels from nine distinct warehouses (3, 1, X, Z, K, L, O, 4, G), creating a complex profile influenced by varied micro-climates. Aged for an impressive 7 Years, 4 Months, and 21 Days and bottled at a robust 124.7 Proof, this is a powerful yet surprisingly smooth sipper.

Watch the full review and tell us your thoughts! 👇

Tasting Notes Highlights:

  • Nose: Rich brown sugar, vanilla, and a hint of fruit/cherry.
  • Palate: Creamy, viscous mouthfeel, with more sweetness than typical Booker’s. Expect notes of vanilla, caramel, cinnamon, and a unique tart cherry and toffee profile—noticeably missing the classic “Beam funk” or nuttiness.
  • Finish: Long, warming, and delightful.

Is this different profile a deliberate nod to Jerry Dalton’s preferred taste? We discuss why this batch might be the best since the acclaimed Jimmy’s Batch (2024-04)! If you’re a devoted Booker’s fan, a collector, or just love high-proof bourbon with a great story, you NEED to hear our full thoughts on this exceptional pour.

Bourbon Specs:

  • Classification: Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
  • Distillery: James B Beam
  • Batch: 2025-03 “Jerry’s Batch”
  • Age: 7 Years, 4 Months, and 21 Days
  • Proof: 124.7 (Uncut and Unfiltered)
  • Mash Bill: 75% Corn, 13% Rye, 12% Malted Barley
  • Barrel Blend: 9 different barrels from 9 different warehouses
  • MSRP: $99.99
  • Where We Got It: Archie & Clyde’s in Newburgh, IN: https://www.archieandclydes.com/

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Cheers and remember to always drink responsibly!


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NOTE: The spirit in this review was purchased by us. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is simply our opinion based on what we tasted on this day. Please drink responsibly.

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