Month: May 2026

The Velvet Root: A Sophisticated Root Beer Black Manhattan

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Experience a masterclass in “dark” flavors with The Velvet Root, a sophisticated, spirit-forward twist on the classic Black Manhattan. In Episode 70 of Thirsty Thursday Cocktails, Rebecca from Your Bourbon Journey breaks down this rich, earthy drink that balances the heavy-hitting Knob Creek Single Barrel Bourbon with the nostalgic botanical notes of Root Beer Whiskey.

Whether you love a traditional Manhattan or you’re looking for a cocktail with notes of charred oak, leather, and sarsaparilla, this recipe is for you. We dive deep into why the Averna Amaro provides that signature Sicilian silkiness and how a few dashes of molasses bitters create a savory, dark-sugar backbone that lingers on the finish.

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The Velvet Root Recipe

Ingredients:

  • 2 oz Knob Creek Single Barrel Bourbon
  • .75 oz Amaro Averna
  • .50 oz Rebel Root Beer Whiskey
  • 3 Dashes Molasses Bitters
  • 1 Dash Orange Bitters
  • Garnish: Luxardo Cherry

Instructions:

  1. Combine: Add the bourbon, amaro, root beer whiskey, and both bitters into a mixing glass.
  2. Chill: Fill the mixing glass with plenty of ice.
  3. Stir: Stir for 20–30 seconds until the glass is frosted and the drink is properly diluted.
  4. Strain: Double strain into a chilled coupe glass.
  5. Finish: Drop in a single Luxardo cherry and enjoy!

🚨REMEMBER TO ALWAYS DRINK RESPONSIBLY🚨

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 Stewards Release: Maker’s Mark Newest 2026 Whiskey Review

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Bourbon Review: Is the NEW Maker’s Mark “The Stewards” Release 

Happy day, everyone! Today on Your Bourbon Journey, Wayne and Rebecca are diving into the highly anticipated 2026 Maker’s Mark: The Stewards Release. This is the third of five entries in the second Wood Finishing Series, and we found a killer deal on it at Costco!

“The Stewards” honors the hardworking operations team at Star Hill Farm—the folks who manage everything from fermentation to bottling. But does this bottle live up to the legacy of the people it celebrates?

In this video, we break down the unique stave profile (10 virgin toasted American oak staves), the 109.8 proof point, and the complex flavor journey that goes from bright raw honey to dark chocolate and spicy black pepper. Whether you’re a die-hard Maker’s collector or just looking for a solid $60 bottle, you won’t want to miss our honest thoughts on this 2026 release.

In this video, we cover:

  • 🥃 Where we found it for $15 under MSRP.
  • 🥃 The technical specs: Mash bill, proof, and the “Steward” backstory.
  • 🥃 Nose, Palate, and Finish: From honey and vanilla to dark cocoa and barrel char.
  • 🥃 How it compares to previous Wood Finishing Series releases.

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2026 Maker’s Mark: The Stewards Release

  • Classification:  Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
  • Company: Suntory Global Spirits
  • Distillery: Maker’s Mark
  • Mash Bill: 70% Corn, 16% Wheat, 14% Malted Barley
  • Age: NAS (at least 4 years)
  • Proof: 109.8
  • MSRP: $74.99
  • Released: March 2026
  • Other: Wood finishing series
  • Purchased: 04/01/26 for $59.99 at Costco in Evansville, IN

🚨REMEMBER TO ALWAYS DRINK RESPONSIBLY🚨

❓Questions❓ YourBourbonJourney@gmail.com

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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Virginia Distillery Co. Showdown: Cider vs. Coffee vs. Cigar!

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Explore the fascinating world of American Single Malt Whiskey with Your Bourbon Journey! Fresh off our American Single Malt Academy certification (which we highly recommend you check out!), Wayne and Rebekah dive into three fascinating expressions from Virginia Distillery Co. in Lovingston, Virginia.

Join us for a definitive tasting “showdown” as we compare three completely distinct barrel finishes. We’ll see how wood management can totally transform a 100% malted barley mash bill.

We are tasting:

  • Cider Cask: A light, orchard-fresh core release finished in French Calvados, Virginia Cider, and Laird’s Apple Brandy barrels. Perfect for summer!
  • Courage Club Coffee Cask: A potent, 112-proof Courage & Conviction club exclusive, 5 years old and finished in coffee casks. Think chicory and espresso!
  • Cigar Blend “First Cut”: A 7-year-old masterpiece and the distillery’s first cigar blend. It’s a complex “cask cocktail” featuring Spanish Oak, Sherry, Port, STR, Cabernet, Armagnac, Cognac, and Fino casks, with a whisper of Islay smoke.

From entry-level value to rare club exclusives, this video is your guide to Virginia Distillery Co.’s impressive lineup. Check out their website for more details on these bottles and their amazing club perks!

Distillery & Links:

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❌YOUR BOURBON JOURNEY DOES NOT SELL ALCOHOL❌

American Single Malt Cider Cask

  • Classification:  American Single Malt Whiskey
  • Company: Virginia Distillery Co.
  • Distillery: Virginia Distillery Co. (Lovingston, VA)
  • Mash Bill: 100% Malted Barley
  • Age: NAS (No Age Statement); matured for multiple years (typically 4+ years) in ex-bourbon barrels before the finish.
  • Finished: French Calvados, Virginia Cider, & Laird’s Apple Brandy Barrels
  • Proof: 93
  • MSRP: $44.99 (700 ml)
  • Released: Core Release (ongoing)
  • Purchased: 04/03/26 for $44.99 at Virginia Distillery Online

American Single Malt Coffee Cask

  • Classification:  American Single Malt Whiskey
  • Company: Virginia Distillery Co.
  • Distillery: Virginia Distillery Co. (Lovingston, VA)
  • Mash Bill: 100% Malted Barley
  • Age: 5 Years
  • Primary Maturation Cask: Ex-Bourbon
  • Finishing Cask: Coffee
  • Proof: 112
  • MSRP: $99.99 (750 ml)
  • Released: Courage Club Exclusive, Bottle 289
  • Purchased: 03/22/26 for $99.99 at Virginia Distillery Online

American Single Malt Cigar Blend “First Cut”

  • Classification:  American Single Malt Whiskey
  • Company: Virginia Distillery Co.
  • Distillery: Virginia Distillery Co. (Lovingston, VA)
  • Mash Bill: 100% Malted Barley
  • Age: 7 Years
  • Finished: A complex “cask cocktail” including Spanish Oak, Sherry, Port, STR (Shaved, Toasted, Re-charred), Château Palmer Cabernet, Armagnac, Cognac, and Fino casks. Note: Contains a “whisper” of smoke from rare Islay casks.
  • Proof: 108
  • MSRP: $59.99 (700 ml)
  • Released: February/March 2026
  • Purchased: 04/03/26 for $59.99 at Virginia Distillery Online

🚨REMEMBER TO ALWAYS DRINK RESPONSIBLY🚨

❓Questions❓ YourBourbonJourney@gmail.com

NOTE: The spirits in this review were 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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Bourbon Time Travel: Tasting 2004 W.L. Weller Special Reserve

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Is modern Weller just a shadow of its former self? Join us on this episode of Your Bourbon Journey as we step back in time to taste a piece of whiskey history: a 2004 W.L. Weller Special Reserve “Stubby” bottle.

Found at Revival Vintage Spirits in Covington, KY, this bottle dates back to the very early years of Buffalo Trace’s ownership of the Weller line (purchased in 1999). We put this 22-year-old time capsule head-to-head against a modern bottle to see how grain changes, barrel maturity, and production shifts have impacted the legendary wheated bourbon profile.

From “dusty funk” and lemon curd notes to a surprising lack of ethanol, this 2004 vintage proved that some things truly do get better with time—or perhaps, they just don’t make them like they used to.

In this video, we discuss:

  • How to identify a 2004 Weller using the laser code.
  • The transition from the “Stubby” bottle to the modern tall design.
  • The sensory differences: Lemon Danish vs. Wheat Bread.
  • Why 20-year-old grains, water, and wood create a superior viscosity.

Revival Vintage Spirits https://revivalky.com/ 

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2004 W.L. Weller Special Reserve

  • Classification: Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey (Wheated)
  • Company: Sazerac Company
  • Distillery: Buffalo Trace Distillery (Frankfort, KY)
  • Mash Bill: Buffalo Trace “Wheated” Recipe
  • Age: NAS (No Age Statement) — Typical production estimates for this era were 4–7 years.
  • Proof: 90 Proof (45% ABV)
  • MSRP: ~$12.00–$15.00 (Historical estimate for 2004)
  • Released: Bottled in 2004 (Laser code: 04  5444 01)
  • Purchased: 04/30/26 for $225 at Revival Vintage Spirits

❌YOUR BOURBON JOURNEY DOES NOT SELL ALCOHOL❌

🚨REMEMBER TO ALWAYS DRINK RESPONSIBLY🚨

❓Questions❓ YourBourbonJourney@gmail.com

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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Springtime in a Glass: The Dandelion Crown Bourbon Cocktail

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Celebrate Mother’s Day with the Dandelion Crown! 🥂🌼

Welcome back to Your Bourbon Journey for Episode 69 of Thirsty Thursday Cocktails. Today, we are taking the legendary Kentucky classic—the Seelbach—and transforming it into a floral, effervescent masterpiece called The Dandelion Crown.

For this high-proof riff, we’ve swapped traditional orange liqueur for the graceful sweetness of Elderflower Liqueur and introduced a unique, savory element: Jeptha Creed Dandelion Bitters. This “star of the show” adds an earthy, herbaceous depth that perfectly balances a heavy-hitting Four Roses OBSV (126 Proof). Hand-selected by Master Distiller Brent Elliott, this bourbon brings vibrant notes of apricot, pear, and brown sugar that shine through the bubbles of a chilled Brut Champagne.

Whether you’re a “bubbles girl” or a bourbon enthusiast, this cocktail is springtime in a glass. It’s sophisticated, festive, and the perfect toast for Mother’s Day!

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📋 The Recipe: The Dandelion Crown

  • 1.5 oz Four Roses OBSV Single Barrel (126 Proof)
  • 0.75 oz Elderflower Liqueur
  • 4-5 dashes Jeptha Creed Dandelion Bitters
  • 2 dashes Peychaud’s Bitters (for that Mother’s Day pink hue)
  • 2-3 oz Chilled Dry Sparkling Wine (Brut Champagne)

🍸 Instructions

  1. Combine: Add your bourbon, elderflower liqueur, and both types of bitters to a mixing glass with a large ice block.
  2. Stir: Stir gently for 15–20 seconds to chill the ingredients and provide the necessary dilution for the 126-proof spirit.
  3. Strain: Pour into a chilled coupe or champagne flute.
  4. Top: Slowly top with your chilled Brut Champagne to maintain the festive bubbles.
  5. Serve: Serve without garnish to showcase the beautiful pink hue and clarity!

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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 Proof Report: April 2026

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A Monthly Audit of the Whiskey Industry

By Rebecca Herman, PhD | Managing Member, Proof & Purpose Group

Part I: The Purpose

Insights into the strategy, markets, and movements defining the industry.

Industry Market News & Global Maneuvers

April 2026 served as a harsh reality check for the industry. With U.S. whiskey exports to the EU plunging 35% and domestic sales dipping 19%, the “boom” narrative has officially shifted to a “maturation” narrative. The industry is currently navigating a period of strategic defensive maneuvering. The headline dominating the month—the rumored $15B Sazerac bid for Brown-Forman—signals that the giants are preparing for a long winter of market consolidation. Whether this is a signal of industry distress or a strategic play to control the “middle shelf” remains the question of the quarter.

Distillery Operations & Leadership

The operational side of the house saw significant friction this month. Between MGP’s production halts and legal challenges (the Uncle Nearest insolvency filings and the ongoing Fresh Bourbon litigation), there is a palpable tension in the air. However, there is a clear “people-first” shift emerging. The move toward female leadership in distilling and operations—highlighted in the April headlines—isn’t just an HR trend; it is a fundamental shift in how distilleries are defining their future culture. Cask Strength Leadership dictates that in times of volatility, we look to new perspectives to solve old problems.

Awards, Festivals & Literature

The market is clearly favoring “value” and “accessibility” over prestige pricing. New Riff’s “World’s Best Bourbon” title for a sub-$50, bottled-in-bond release is a massive win for the consumer and a warning to luxury-only brands. As we enter the festival season, attendance remains robust, proving that the experience of the trail—from BBQ & Barrels to the Bourbon City Companion—is the most reliable revenue stream when bottle sales fluctuate.

Part II: The Proof

The liquid results. A narrative guide to the month’s most significant bottle releases.

The “Ultra-Aged” Heavy Hitters

April delivered a rarity: a true battle of the decades.

  • The Standout: The Stitzel Reserve 31-Year-Old is a time capsule, but it faces stiff competition from the Buffalo Trace Eagle Rare 30. When we see 30+ year releases, we aren’t just tasting whiskey; we are tasting the patience of a lost era. These releases anchor the month by reminding collectors why “patience” is the primary ingredient in whiskey.

The Experimental & Grain-Forward

The industry is pivoting toward “process as a product.”

  • Highlights: Michter’s Legacy Series 2026 and the Buffalo Trace 15-Year Experimental ($47). The latter, at an accessible price point despite the age, is the most important release of the month. It proves that the “big players” are still willing to experiment with aging variables (wheated mash bills) without insulating themselves from the everyday drinker. Jack Daniel’s High Proof Rye also warrants a mention for its dedication to the specific terroir of the barrelhouse.

Finishes & Unique Blends

The “Finish” market continues to diversify away from simple Sherry and toward more complex wood interactions.

  • The Leaders: Hard Truth’s Mizunara Finish and Wenzel’s Sherry Barrel Finish stand out. The use of Mizunara (Japanese Oak) is notoriously difficult to manage; seeing it applied to a wheated bourbon suggests that craft distillers are getting more comfortable with high-risk, high-reward wood management.

Seasonal & Commemorative

April saw the return of “Thematic Whiskey.”

  • Highlights: Maker’s Mark Star Hill Farm 2026 and Elijah Craig’s 108-proof PGA Commemorative. These are not just bottles; they are branding exercises that work. They effectively bridge the gap between “whiskey enthusiast” and “sports fan,” a crucial crossover demographic as the industry looks to broaden its audience during the summer season.

Looking for the full stories behind these insights?

For a comprehensive, chronological archive of the articles, press releases, and announcements from this month, VIEW THE FULL LIST HERE.

Bourbon & Whiskey News: April 2026

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05/06/26
Curated by Rebecca Herman

Bourbon & Whiskey Industry Highlights from April 2026 >> 71 Stories!

In April 2026, the bourbon and whiskey industry faced challenges, including a significant drop in U.S. whiskey exports and falling sales. Despite this, innovations and expansions were seen with numerous bottle releases and new distillery ventures. Women increasingly impacted the market, signaling a dynamic shift in the industry landscape.

For those who need the ‘Executive Summary’ before diving into the details, please see my curated series: The Proof Report. It distills this month’s massive news cycle into two clear categories: the industry’s strategic Purpose and the monthly liquid Proof. Read HERE!

Industry Market News & Related Announcements >> 12 Stories

04/01: US whiskey exports to EU plunge 35% in 2025

04/01: Bourbon: Kentucky Bourbon Faces a Shifting Market

04/02: Trump Tariffs Hit American Whiskey Exports Hard, Data Shows

04/07: American whiskey sales fall 19% year-on-year

04/07: Lofted Spirits president steps down

04/09: Canadian distillery reports ‘immense growth’ after provinces pull U.S. liquors

04/11: Fifth Circuit Strikes Down Federal Law Banning Home Alcohol Distilleries

04/15: Report: Sazerac offers $15B for Brown-Forman

04/16: Pernod says Brown-Forman talks ‘ongoing’ after reported rival offer

04/20: Women take the lead in whiskey as more female drinkers and distillers change the industry

04/20: Bourbon Whiskey Market Set to Boom Rapidly, Witnessing Strong Growth Through 2033 | Jim Beam • Maker’s Mark • Buffalo Trace • Woodford Reserve

04/27: Distilled Spirits Council Announces Spirit Forward Campaign

Distillery News >> 10 Stories

04/01: Green River cuts head distiller role

04/02: GALLO Completes Acquisition of Four Roses Bourbon From Kirin Holdings

04/03: Fresh Bourbon Wins Appeal In Legal Battle With Brough Brothers Over ‘First Black-Owned’ Claim

04/07: Kentucky Artisan Distillery Unveils 15- and 25-Gallon Single Barrel Program

04/08: MGP halts production at Kentucky distilleries

04/08: The Bourbon Market Is Tanking. So Why Did the Maker of Evan Williams and Elijah Craig Just Spend $200 Million?

04/14: Autumn Nethery Named Vice President of Operations of PaPaw’s Ridge

04/17: Kentucky distiller charged with criminal loan deception

04/25: Green River Distilling navigating industry headwinds while maintaining growth, local commitment

04/29: High West names Isaac Winter as new master distiller

Distillery Trail >> 6 Stories

04/07: Kentucky Bourbon Trail maintains strong visitation numbers

04/10: Louisville Tourism debuts ‘The Bourbon City Companion’

04/14: The Ingram Distillery Officially Opens Grounds to the Public, Announces Partnership with One Mississippi

04/21: Buffalo Trace Distillery Announces the Grand Opening of the John G. Carlisle Cafe

04/21: Cave City joins the Kentucky Bourbon Trail with new distillery

04/30: A new era at Jeptha Creed: Expanded distillery experiences arrive in 2026

Awards Announced >> 5 Stories

04/11: Whiskey Judges Describe the World’s Best Bourbon as ‘Vanilla Cookie’—and It Costs Only $40

04/21: The Best Whiskeys According To The Denver International Spirits Competition 2026

04/22: The Best American Whiskeys From The London Spirits Competition 2026

04/28: The Best Rye Whiskeys According To The Denver International Spirits Competition 2026

04/28: The Top Double Gold Winning Whiskeys From The Denver International Spirits Competition 2026

Bourbon Festival News,Updates, & Planning >> 9 Festivals >> This Month’s Updates > 2

May 2026: BBQ & Barrels, Owensboro KY

June 2026: National Bourbon Week Set to Return June 14-21

Aug 2027: Missouri Bourbon Festival, Hermann MO

Sep 2026: Kentucky Bourbon Festival, Bardstown KY

  • Sold out! Waitlist is a possibility.

Sep 2026: Bourbon & Beyond, Louisville KY

Oct 2026: Bourbon on the Banks, Frankfort KY

Jan 2027: BourbonCon, Lexington KY

Feb 2027: Bourbon Classic, Louisville KY

Mar 2026: New Orleans Bourbon Festival

Bottle Releases >> 36 Stories

04/01: Hard Truth Launches First Barrel Finish Reserve of 2026: French Oak Finish

04/01: Knob Creek Debuts Blender’s Edition, a Limited Series Celebrating the Art of Blending

04/01: Rabbit Hole Distillery Unveils Raceking: A Six-Year Aged Chocolate-Forward Bourbon Worthy of the Winner’s Circle

04/01: Angel’s Envy sees double with cask strength whiskeys

04/02: New Riff and Rhinegeist Harmonize with DUET American Whiskey Collaboration

04/03: Michter’s Legacy Series 2026 Is Here — and It’s as Experimental as Ever

04/06: Buffalo Trace Just Released 2 New Experimental Whiskeys — Including a 15-Year Bourbon for $47

04/07: Redemption Whiskey Unveils Bold New Packaging, Reformulated Bourbon, and Its Next Act

04/08: Basil Hayden Unveils Golden Rye & Refreshes Portfolio Structure

04/08: Koopers Whiskey Unveils Limited 7-Year Rye Finished in Cognac Casks, Continuing Its Tradition of Premium Barrel Finishing

04/14: Hard Truth Distilling Co. announces Mizunara Finished Wheated Bourbon release

04/14: Casey Jones Distillery Launches Revere Bourbon

04/15: Round Barn Distillery Introduces the Lighthouse Series with the Release of Watchman Barrel-Strength Bourbon

04/16: Buffalo Trace Debuts Eagle Rare 30, Its Oldest Bourbon Yet

04/16: Elijah Craig Launches 108-Proof 2026 PGA Championship Commemorative Edition Bourbon

04/19: A Georgia Distillery Is Reinventing Amaro With A Southern Twist

04/21: First Release of Michter’s US★1 Barrel Strength Sour Mash Kentucky Whiskey

04/21: Jack Daniel’s Debuts High Proof, Small Batch Rye from Three Unique Barrelhouse Locations

04/21: B.R. Distilling Company Announces Blue Note Small Batch Wheated Bourbon Blend

04/22: Maker’s Mark Celebrates Flavor from Nature with the Return Of Star Hill Farm Whisky 2026

04/22: Hooten Young to Release 6-Year Single Barrel

04/22: Four Roses Is Dropping a Trio of New Bourbons in Its Popular Single-Barrel Lineup

04/22: Pursuit Spirits Chosen For The 2026 Whiskey Row Series Private Selection

04/23: Wenzel’s Award-Winning Sherry Barrel Finished Bourbon Is Back

04/23: Oaklore Distilling Co. Continues Its Breakout Run with Two Limited-Release Cask-Finished Bourbons this Spring 2026

04/27: A. Smith Bowman Releases First Rye Whiskey In 16 Years

04/27: Blue Run Spirits Unveils “Blue Run Blueprint Series” as New Flagship Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey

04/28: Jeptha Creed Distillery Unveils Upcoming Release of Bruce’s Blue Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey

04/28: Starlight Distillery Releases New Bottled-in-Bond Bourbon

04/29: Bardstown Bourbon Company Turns Any Bottle into a Personalized Gifting Experience

04/29: Virginia Distillery Co. Introduces ‘The Split Barrel Project’

04/29: Wigle Whiskey Releases 2026 Runner of Steel Bourbon

04/30: Stitzel-Weller Distillery Unveils Stitzel Reserve 31-Year-Old Bourbon Whiskey

04/30: Koopers Whiskey Releases 10-Year Rye

04/30: Chicken Cock Whiskey Introduces Old Glory Kentucky Straight Rye

Book Releases >> No new publications.

Augusta’s Historic Distillery: A Visit to Becker & Bird

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Becker & Bird: The Historic Kentucky Bourbon Time Capsule

Think you’ve seen everything on the Bourbon Trail? Think again. Join us for Bourbon Trail Tales and Taste, Episode 60, as we travel to Augusta, Kentucky, to visit the historic Becker & Bird Distillery.

This isn’t your average commercial distillery tour. Set on a property that’s on the National Register of Historic Places, Becker & Bird honors the legacy of Johannes Becker, a Revolutionary War veteran who began distilling on this land in 1798. You’ll learn the fascinating (and sometimes frustrating) story of why they had to shift their name from “Baker” to “Becker” to avoid a corporate legal battle, and why this site is a true bourbon time capsule.

The real showstopper? The cellar. We’re taking you inside one of the largest wine and spirit cellars in the U.S.—a hand-built stone masterpiece that survived the Battle of Augusta in 1862. Its consistent, cool, humid environment acts as a natural rickhouse, unlike anything you see in modern metal-clad warehouses.

In this episode: 

🥃 The Bourbon: We’re tasting the Historic Becker & Bird Straight Bourbon (100 proof, 2-year age statement, MGP-sourced). We break down the profile, the “grain-forward” notes, and why we think it’s important to support these up-and-coming craft distillers. 

🍷 The Winery: We discover their amazing bourbon-barrel-aged wine, a must-try if you visit the tasting room!

If you love exploring the history behind the bottle and want to support the preservation of our Kentucky spirits heritage, this is a stop you need to add to your list.

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✴️ Historic Becker & Bird Straight Bourbon

  • Classification: Straight Bourbon Whiskey
  • Company: Baker-Bird Winery & Distillery (Owned by Dinah Bird)
  • Distillery: MGP (Lawrenceburg, IN)
  • Mash Bill: Most likely MGP’s 75% Corn, 21% Rye, 4% Malted Barley
  • Age: 2 Years
  • Proof: 100
  • MSRP: $78.99 (Price may vary; some winery-direct bottles are priced at a premium due to the historic site maintenance)
  • Released: 2018 (Brand launch)
  • Purchased: $90 03/15/25 at Becker & Bird Distillery
  • Other: Bottled by Kentucky Artisan Distillery (Crestwood, KY). The label pays homage to Johannes Becker (John Baker), a Revolutionary War veteran who moved to Augusta in 1797.

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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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Hard Truth 7 Year Whiskeys | Full Lineup Tasting 

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Hard Truth’s 7-Year Indiana Whiskey: Bourbon, Wheated, and Rye!

The 7-year mark has officially arrived at Hard Truth Distilling Co., and we are breaking down the entire lineup! In this video, we deep dive into the brand new Hard Truth 7-Year Straight Bourbon, the 7-Year Wheated Bourbon, and the 7-Year Sweet Mash Rye.

Hard Truth has been making waves in Nashville, Indiana, but do these age-stated bottles live up to the premium MSRP? We explore the mash bills, the proof, and the flavor profiles of these highly anticipated February 2026 releases. Whether you are a fan of high-rye bourbons, soft wheated profiles, or punchy sweet mash ryes, we’re finding out exactly where these bottles sit in the current craft whiskey landscape.

In this tasting, we cover:

  • Hard Truth 7-Year Straight Bourbon (112.3 Proof): The core profile.
  • Hard Truth 7-Year Wheated Bourbon (116.1 Proof): The smooth operator.
  • Hard Truth 7-Year Sweet Mash Rye (107 Proof): The rye lover’s dream.

Let us know in the comments if you’ve managed to snag a bottle and what your tasting notes are!

Don’t forget to LIKE and SUBSCRIBE for more whiskey reviews, bourbon hunts, and distillery deep dives!

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❌YOUR BOURBON JOURNEY DOES NOT SELL ALCOHOL❌

Hard Truth 7-Year Straight Bourbon

  • Classification: Indiana Straight Bourbon Whiskey
  • Company: Hard Truth Distilling Co.
  • Distillery: Hard Truth Distilling Co. (Nashville, IN)
  • Mash Bill: 67% Corn, 21% Rye, 12% Malted Barley
  • Age: 7 Years
  • Proof: 112.3
  • MSRP: $89.99
  • Released: February 2026
  • Purchased: $74.99 04/03/26 at High Spirits in Evansville, IN

Hard Truth 7-Year Wheated Bourbon

  • Classification: Indiana Straight Bourbon Whiskey
  • Company: Hard Truth Distilling Co.
  • Distillery: Hard Truth Distilling Co. (Nashville, IN)
  • Mash Bill: 69% Corn, 19% Wheat, 12% Malted Barley
  • Age: 7 Years
  • Proof: 116.1
  • MSRP: $89.99
  • Released: February 2026
  • Purchased: $74.99 04/03/26 at High Spirits in Evansville, IN

Hard Truth 7-Year Sweet Mash Rye

  • Classification: Indiana Straight Rye Whiskey
  • Company: Hard Truth Distilling Co.
  • Distillery: Hard Truth Distilling Co. (Nashville, IN)
  • Mash Bill: 94% Rye, 6% Malted Barley
  • Age: 7 Years
  • Proof: 107
  • MSRP: $89.99
  • Released: February 2026
  • Purchased: $74.99 04/03/26 at High Spirits in Evansville, IN

🚨REMEMBER TO ALWAYS DRINK RESPONSIBLY🚨

❓Questions❓ YourBourbonJourney@gmail.com

NOTE: The spirits in this review were 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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The April Lineup: Which Whiskey Earned the Top Spot?

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Welcome back to Your Bourbon Journey! 🥃

It’s that time of the month again! With the “Road to the Sweet 16” in full swing, we have curated an absolute powerhouse lineup for our April Whiskey of the Month. This month, we went bold—tasting five unique expressions that span the entire spectrum of flavor and finish. From Finished Rye and Wheat whiskeys to high-proof American Light Whiskey and Kentucky Straight Bourbon, we are all over the map!

We put these contenders to the ultimate test in a blind tasting format to see which bottle has what it takes to advance toward our Whiskey of the Year title. The competition was fierce, the legs were luscious, and the results? Let’s just say we were genuinely stunned.

In this episode: We dive into five distinct expressions, evaluating them on the nose, palate, and finish. We break down the unique profiles, discuss the impact of finishing casks (Armagnac, Madeira, Port/Sherry), and score them live to see who reigns supreme this month.

Featured Candidates:

  • Dark Arts Cask Strength Bourbon (Armagnac Finish)
  • Dark Arts Blunt Blend (Batch 3)
  • Knob Creek Blender’s Edition 1
  • Penelope American Light Whiskey (18 Year)
  • Remus Master Distiller Experimental Series 2

Stay tuned until the end for the Big Reveal! We break down the math, discuss the “Sweet Sixteen” leaderboard implications, and find out which of these bottles are destined for our Whiskey of the Year tournament.

If you enjoy our blind tasting series, hit that SUBSCRIBE button and join us on our journey! 🔔 Don’t forget to like and comment: Which of these bottles would be your top pick? Are you a fan of the finishes in this lineup?

Connect With Us & Support The Journey! 


📊 SEE THE LIVE LEADERBOARD: Want to see where these bottles rank against the rest of the field? Check out our real-time leaderboard here: 👉 https://yourbourbonjourney.com/2026/02/27/the-live-leaderboard-road-to-the-sweet-sixteen/

🥃 OUR NEW SCORING PROCESS: We’ve revamped our scoring to be more transparent than ever. Read the full breakdown of our new rubric and the “Sweet Sixteen” bracket process on our website: 👉 https://yourbourbonjourney.com/2026/02/27/decoding-the-pour-the-new-your-bourbon-journey-scoring-woty-process/

❌YOUR BOURBON JOURNEY DOES NOT SELL ALCOHOL❌

Dark Arts Cask Strength Bourbon (Armagnac Finish)

  • Classification:  Straight Bourbon Whiskey
  • Distilled: Sourced from MGP in Indiana  
  • Produced by: Dark Arts Whiskey House LLC
  • Mash Bill: 60% Corn, 36% Rye, 4% Malted Barley
  • Age: 10 Years
  • Proof: 113 (Cask Strength)
  • Released: Early 2026
  • Other: Finished in Armagnac Cask; Batch AT2; Bottle 132
  • Original Review:

Dark Arts Blunt Blend (Batch 3) Dank Arts

  • Classification: Rye Bourbon Whiskey
  • Company: Dark Arts Whiskey House
  • Distillery: Distilled in Indiana; Blended/Bottled in Sparta, KY
  • Mash Bill: 95% Rye, 5% Malted Barley
  • Age: 8 Years
  • Finished: Madeira Cask and Armagnac Cask
  • Proof: 113.8
  • Released: Late March 2026
  • Other: Bottle 3370
  • Original Review:

Knob Creek Blender’s Edition 1

  • Classification: Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
  • Company: Beam Suntory
  • Distillery: James B. Beam Distilling Co. (Clermont/Beam, KY)
  • Mash Bill: 77% Corn, 13% Rye, 10% Malted Barley
  • Age: 10 years
  • Proof: 106
  • MSRP: $44.99
  • Released: March 2026
  • Original Review:

Penelope American Light Whiskey 18 Year Limited Release

  • Classification:  American Light Whiskey
  • Company: Penelope Bourbon (A subsidiary of MGP/Luxco)
  • Distillery: MGP (Lawrenceburg, IN)
  • Mash Bill: 99% Corn, 1% Malted Barley
  • Age: 18 Years
  • Proof: 140.2
  • Released: 2026
  • Original Review:

Remus Master Distiller Experimental Series 2

  • Classification: Straight Wheat Whiskey
  • Distillery: Ross & Squibb Distillery
  • Mash Bill: 95% Wheat, 5% Malted Barley (LKSV formula/rare)
  • Age: Distilled in 2017 – Approximately 9 years
  • Quattro-Finish: (separately) Tawny Port, White Port, Oloroso Sherry and Ruby Port Casks (then blended)
  • Proof: 113
  • Released:  March 2026
  • Original Review:

❌YOUR BOURBON JOURNEY DOES NOT SELL ALCOHOL❌

🚨REMEMBER TO ALWAYS DRINK RESPONSIBLY🚨

❓Questions❓ YourBourbonJourney@gmail.com

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

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