Bourbon Trail Tales & Tastes – Episode 3 Preservation Distillery

Is Preservation Distillery Worth the Trip to Kentucky?

In Episode 3 of Bourbon Trail Tales & Tastes, we recount our visit to Preservation Distillery in Bardstown, Kentucky. Join us as we vividly remember that warm and sunny day, April 23, 2022. It marked our third stop on our inaugural weekend of the Kentucky Bourbon Trail, where we collected our third stamp in our trail book. We eagerly share insights gained about Preservation and the work they are doing, complemented by a guided tasting featuring three interesting selections. To elevate the experience, we delve into a tasting of a bottle we purchased that day, Very Olde St. Nick Estate Reserve Summery Rye Whiskey, highlight another facet of 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.

Very Olde St. Nick

Estate Reserve
Summery Rye Whiskey
Produced and Bottled by Old St. Nick Distillery
Bardstown, KY
81 Proof
Typically, at least 5 years old
The Summer Rye is usually selected prior to the heat of the summer.
Paid: $169.00

Bourbon Trail Tales & Tastes – Episode 2 Bardstown Bourbon Company

The Hidden Secrets of Bardstown Bourbon Company Nobody Knows

In Episode 2 of Bourbon Trail Tales & Tastes, we reflect what inspired us to start this journey, acquiring our second stamp, and the unforgettable first-time experiences we had that day, April 23, 2022. This remarkable adventure unfolded at Bardstown Bourbon Company, where we recount our first visit, share our favorite memories, and delve into the delightful flavors we tasted for the very first time. To top it off, we explore a tasting of a bottle we purchased that day, Bardstown Discovery #7, showcasing the essence of our Bourbon Trail 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.

Discovery Series™ #7

Blended Whiskey

Description: The Discovery Series showcases the art of blending hand-selected, supremely aged bourbon. For each release, team members throughout the distillery taste, analyze, and vote on the best recipe. It is a celebration of our collaborative spirit, working together to create something unique and spectacular.

Irresistible Smoked Maple Old Fashioned!

In episode 1 of Thirsty Thursday Cocktails, we’re diving into a fantastic winter cocktail: the Smoked Maple Old Fashioned. An Old Fashioned isn’t just any drink; it’s a timeless bourbon cocktail that commands respect. At its core, this classic is expertly crafted with whiskey, bitters, sugar, and water, and elegantly served over ice in a rocks glass. It typically boasts a garnish of vibrant orange slice or zest, accompanied by a cocktail cherry. 

The beauty of the Old Fashioned lies in its versatility, allowing you to tailor it to seasonal ingredients and your unique palate. In this video, we’re proudly using Green River Full Proof Bourbon as our spirit of choice. The “sugar” element comes from Pappy & Company’s Bourbon Barrel-Aged Pure Maple Syrup, while the bitters are the Fee Brothers Black Walnut Bitters. Our garnish will feature zesty orange rind and exquisite Luxardo Cherries. Adding to the excitement, today’s recipe includes smoking the cocktail for an unforgettable twist.

RECIPE: SMOKED MAPLE OLD FASHIONED
2 oz. Bourbon – Green River Full Proof
1-2 Bar Spoons of Real Bourbon Barrel-Aged Pure Maple Syrup
3 Dashes Black Walnut Bitters
Use of Cocktail Smoking Kit
Garnish – Orange Zest and Luxardo Cherry 
Ice Ball 

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

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What Makes Little Book the Infinite Edition 1 SO SPECIAL? 

In this bourbon review episode, we are excited to unveil and indulge in the 2024 Little Book the Infinite Edition 1. This highly sought-after release, which launched in September 2024, is set to become a staple in the world of limited edition releases. We will dissect every aspect, from its captivating nose to its complex palate and gratifying finish. Join us as we share our insights on why this exceptional bottle, crafted by three generations of master distillers, Booker Noe, Fred Noe, and Freddie Noe, is undeniably a worthy investment.

ABOUT THIS BOTTLE
Classification: Straight Bourbon
Company: Beam Suntory
Distillery: Jim Beam
Mashbill: Undisclosed Blend of four bourbons:
-Booker Noe’s Component: Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, Aged 20 years
‍-Fred Noe’s Component: Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, Aged 14 years
-Freddie Noe’s Component: Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, Aged 7 years
-Shared Family Component: Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, Aged 8 Years
Age: Blend of bourbons aged 7-20 years
Proof: 119.3
Release Date: August 2024
Price Paid: $200.00

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

Bourbon Trail Tales & Tastes – Episode 1 Jim Beam

What Happens When You Visit Jim Beam for the FIRST TIME?

In Episode 1 of Bourbon Trail Tales & Tastes, we reflect on the moment we acquired our Kentucky Bourbon Trail stamp book, April 22, 2022, marking the beginning of our exciting journey with our very first stamp collected and the unforgettable experiences we had that day. This remarkable adventure unfolded at none other than the historic and iconic James B. Beam Distilling, where we recount our first visit, share our favorite memories, and delve into the delightful flavors we tasted for the very first time. To top it off, we explore a tasting of a bottle we purchased that day, Legent, showcasing the essence of our Bourbon Trail 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.

Legent

Jim Beam’s Master Distiller, Fred Noe, collaborated with Shinji Fukuyo of Suntory to create Legent Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey.

Legent is a blend of 5 year old, unfinished bourbon from Jim Beam and bourbon that has been finished in ex-wine casks and ex-Sherry casks sourced from Spain. Sources indicate that the finished component is about 60% ex-wine and 40% ex-Sherry. 

94 Proof

Price paid $49.99 (2022)

Bourbon & Whiskey News: January 2025

02/01/25
Curated by Rebecca Herman McBrayer

Bourbon & Whiskey Industry Highlights from January 2025 >> 41 Stories!

In January 2025, Kentucky’s whiskey industry experienced significant developments, including Brown-Forman layoffs, a focus on regenerative farming, and new distillery expansions. Noteworthy bottle releases included Old Forester’s 1924 bourbon and Buffalo Trace’s 2025 Prohibition Collection. Despite market corrections, industry leaders emphasized Kentucky’s bourbon sector remains robust.

Jan 14: Kentucky Distilleries and Precision Conservation Management Join Forces to Enhance Regenerative Corn Farming Practices throughout Commonwealth

Jan 14: Kentucky whiskey giant Brown-Forman laying off hundreds, closing Louisville cooperage

Jan 14: Is Kentucky’s bourbon boom over? What’s behind Brown-Forman layoffs, slipping sales

Jan 16: Bourbon Pioneers: How Kentucky Brothers Are Leading a European Craft Spirits Revolution

Jan 16: Amid uncertainty, leaders say Kentucky’s bourbon industry ‘is very strong’

Jan 21: Suntory CEO says the company has stockpiled whiskey in Europe due to possible Trump tariffs

Jan 21: ‘A correction in the market:’ How could Surgeon General’s warning impact Kentucky bourbon?

Jan 21: Distillers, industry experts discuss what the future might hold for bourbon

Jan 23: This New Investment Group Will Focus on Funding American Single Malt Whiskey

Jan 23: Cost highway: American whiskey’s affordable focus

Jan 02: Redwood Empire Whiskey owner buys Californian distillery

Jan 09: Buffalo Trace’s $1 Billion Expansion Means More of Your Favorite Whiskey

Jan 14: WhistlePig Whiskey Announces Leadership Transition

Jan 19: A New Distillery Foregoes a Master Distiller

Jan 30: Distillery reopens with finely crafted spirits and Old Vegas swagger

Jan 30: Diageo to end bottling operations at Stitzel-Weller Distillery in Shively. What to know

Jan 07: Bourbon is booming: Here are 8 new projects, experiences opening in Kentucky in 2025

Jan 14: Visitor count at Green River doubled in ’24

Jan 20: The best places to explore Kentucky’s bourbon heritage

Jan 21: Chicken Cock Whiskey’s Brand Home Circa 1856 Has Joined the Kentucky Bourbon Trail® and Honored with Top Accolades at the 2024 America’s Best Beverage Awards

Jan 21: My Old Ky Home State Park campground getting $4M upgrade

Jan 25: Louisville tourism leaders expect the industry to bring in major economic impact in 2025

Jan 30: Ky Bourbon Trail named Best of Business at World Beverage Innovation Awards

Awards Announced >> 2 Stories

Jan 13: The World’s Best Whiskey—2024 Competition Edition

Jan 30: Ky Bourbon Trail named Best of Business at World Beverage Innovation Awards

Bourbon Festival News & Updates >> No stories this month!

Jan 07: Old Forester 1924 Returns: 10-Year-Old Bourbon Back on the Shelf Nationwide

Jan 08: Heaven’s Door Spirits Unveils Bootleg Series Volume VI: Bob Dylan’s Repertoire of American Whiskies are the Perfect Blend of Art and Craft

Jan 10: Drinking Bourbon with Dierks Bentley

Jan 13: Woodford Reserve Double Double Oaked goes national

Jan 15: Penelope Bourbon releases rare American Light Whiskey

Jan 15: Buffalo Trace Unveils 2025 Prohibition Collection

Jan 17: Stranahan’s Just Released One of Its Oldest and Highest Proof Whiskeys to Date

Jan 21: World Whiskey Society Launches Limited Edition Doc Holliday Bottled in Bond Straight Bourbon Whiskey

Jan 21: Chattanooga Whiskey Introduces Batch 042: Amaro Barrel Finished Rye

Jan 22: Old Commonwealth Distillery Relaunches Colonel Randolph 16 Year Bourbon as a Single Barrel, Selected by Gordon Hue

Jan 22: Old Forester Announces Return of 117 Series: 1910 Extra Old

Jan 24: New Riff Balboa Rye Back for ’25

Jan 28: Lux Row Distillers makes Small Batch PX Sherry Cask Finish available nationwide

Jan 28: Barrell Craft Spirits® Launches Barrell Foundation Double Barrel Bourbon

Jan 28: Michter’s Adds to Its Legacy Series With First Release of Bomberger’s PFG™: Kentucky Straight Bourbon Finished in Precision Fine Grain Oak Barrels

Jan 29: Penelope Bourbon expands its award-winning portfolio with Wheated

Bourbon & Whiskey News: December 2024 Insights

01/01/25
Curated by Rebecca Herman McBrayer

Happy New Year!

Bourbon & Whiskey News Highlights from December 2024 >> 29 Stories!

In December 2024, the bourbon and whiskey industry saw significant developments, including Ken Lewis becoming the new chair of the Kentucky Distiller’s Association and the establishment of American Single Malt as an official whiskey category. Other highlights include record auction prices, industry growth concerns, and various new product releases.

New Riff Distilling founder Ken Lewis named new chair of Kentucky Distiller’s Association

World Spirits Report 2024: American whiskey

Top 10 spirits acquisitions in 2024

What MGP’s Whiskey Production Scale-Down Signals for the American Whiskey Industry

Founder Wins Old Carter At Auction for $18.7 Million

American Single Malt Is Finally An Official Whiskey Category

KDA says return of tariffs on whiskey is a threat to growth of Kentucky’s distilled spirits industry

A Holiday Surprise for U.S. Distilleries: TTB Unveils Long-Awaited ‘American Single Malt’ Standard of Identity

AI sniffs out whiskey flavor notes as well as the pros

Bourbon Spirits Market Size Expected to Reach $12.8 Billion by 2031

Heritage Distilling Co. Expands into Kentucky with Keg 1 River City

Bardstown Bourbon Company and Brindiamo Expand Relationship with First-of-its-kind Barrel Leasing Program

JAMES B. BEAM DISTILLING CO. LAUNCHES “BEAM PRIVATE BARREL CLUB” – THE DISTILLERY’S FIRST CONSUMER SINGLE BARREL PROGRAM

KDA Announces Balance Distilling as Newest Member

Heaven Hill Distillery employee dies at Bardstown rickhouse

Awards Announced >> 6 Stories

St. Augustine Distillery wins Distillery of the Year award from national distillers group

The Best American Blended Whiskey According To The World Whiskies Awards 2024

Still Austin bourbon named one of the top 10 whiskies of 2024

Green River Distilling gets more honors

BOURBON PODCAST ANNOUNCES 2024 WHISKEY OF THE YEAR

Top 100 American Whiskeys of 2024 Ranked

Bourbon Festival News & Updates >> No stories this month!

Booker’s is releasing its fourth and final batch of bourbon in 2024

Woodford Reserve Announces Release of Batch Proof

Pappy release ‘unusual surplus’ of its coveted Van Winkle Collection. Here’s what we know

Hidden Barn Bourbon is releasing a new whiskey called Slow Fade

Town Branch®️ Releases Oldest Ever Bottled-in-Bond American Single Malt Whiskey

World Whiskey Society Launches 20-Year-Old Family Reserve Whiskey

Blue Run Spirits is releasing a limited-edition holiday bourbon

Jack Daniel’s Just Dropped a New Limited-Edition Whiskey Aged in Maple Barrels

Experience the VIP Repeal Day Dinner at Starlight Distillery

December 14, 2024
By Rebecca Herman McBrayer

We invite you to experience, through our eyes, an exceptional VIP Repeal Day Dinner Event that took place at Starlight Distillery on Friday, Dec 6th. This elevated evening kicked off with engaging interactions among fellow bourbon enthusiasts and the esteemed Starlight Distillery Master Distillers and Bourbon Experts. We relished every moment of this celebration, showcasing the perfect marriage of food and spirits with a meticulously crafted multi-course tasting menu. Each chef-prepared course was expertly paired with a pour from one of the five Family Reserve releases, accompanied by insightful discussions led by the Starlight Distillery experts who hand-selected each bottle.

Following dinner, we had the opportunity to purchase each Family Reserve offering, in addition to special Repeal Day Releases.

To see the event unfold and hear from Ted, Black, and Christian Huber about each bottle, watch this video.

Embracing the Craft,
Wayne & Rebecca

Bourbon & Whiskey News: November 2024 Insights

12/01/24
Curated by Rebecca Herman McBrayer

Bourbon & Whiskey News Highlights from November 2024 >> 25 Stories!

In November 2024, the bourbon and whiskey industry saw significant highlights, including record-breaking sales, new distillery developments, and market forecasts. Key stories featured Maker’s Mark’s new master distiller, multi-million dollar investments, and notable bottle releases, while Kentucky bourbon continued to thrive, attracting increased whiskey tourism.

Van Winkle breaks record at $107,715

Global Bourbon Spirits Market Overview 2033 : Forecasted Market Size And Growth Rate

MGP to scale down whiskey production

Kentucky bourbon had another record year. Here’s how much it brought to the commonwealth

Kentucky’s Best Whiskey Blender Just Dropped a Hazmat-Level 33-Year-Old Canadian Whisky

Whiskey Market Opportunities and Key Growth Drivers: Regional Insights for 2024-2031 | Diageo plc, Pernod Ricard, William Grant and Sons Ltd.

Bourbon Whiskey Market Size, Forecast 2031 by Key Companies-Beam Suntory, Kirin Brewery, Bulleit Distilling Company, Buffalo Trace Distillery, Heaven Hill Distilleries

Whiskey Tourism Market on Track to Reach $41.7 Billion by 2031

Maker’s Mark names new master distiller

US-based High Basin Brands raises $4m, acquires local distiller

J. Mattingly 1845 Distillery Offering Customizable Bourbon for Corporate Gifting

This Michigan Distillery Is Making Whiskey With Rye Recovered From an 1876 Shipwreck

Awards Announced >> 3 Stories

Heaven Hill Distillery awarded IWSC’s 2024 Bourbon Producer Trophy

Traveller: double platinum whiskey

MICHTER’S NAMED WORLD’S MOST ADMIRED WHISKEY

Bourbon Festival News & Updates >> No stories this month!

Angel’s Envy tweaks cask-strength Bourbon

2XO Whiskey Releases Second Vintage of Gem of Kentucky, The Only Double Barreled, Single Barrel Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey

Rabbit Hole Just Dropped a New Limited-Edition 8-Year-Old Rye Whiskey

Templeton Releases New Flagship Templeton Straight Rye Whiskey

The Buffalo Trace Antique Collection Returns For The Fall 2024 Season

Remus Gatsby Reserve Returns

Four Roses Distillery Unveils Single Barrel Collection, Honoring 20 Years Of Single Barrel Excellence

Milam & Greene Whiskey Cooper’s Hawk Single Barrel Bourbon Is Ready to Take Flight

Michter’s First Release of Its 20 Year Bourbon in Two Years

Hidden Barn Releases Perfect Harmony Madeira Finished Bourbon for 2024

Tasting Notes for Evan Williams Single Barrel

November 27, 2024
By Rebecca Herman McBrayer 

Wayne and I selected this Evan Williams Single Barrel for a formal bourbon tasting because we realized that we have tasted it several times when out and about but our bottles at home were unopened. We picked up one bottle at a terrific dinner hosted by Evan Williams (great event!), and another at the 2024 Kentucky Bourbon Festival.

Tasting Notes: Evan Williams Single Barrel Vintage Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey

Please be sure to read our approach to Tasting Whiskey if you haven’t already.

Mashbill – 78% corn, 12% malted barley, 10% Rye
Age – 7-8 Years
Proof – 86.6
Price Paid – $49.99 (plus tax)

Color – Golden honey.

Aroma – Honey is very dominant and then there are notes of cinnamon. As it opens up, the light and pleasant nose includes vanilla and graham crackers.

Tasted Neat – Like the nose, the honey it right up front on the palate with notes of vanilla and cinnamon. It is reminiscent of a vanilla wafer, or vanilla yogurt with drizzled honey, as well as a honey and cinnamon graham cracker.

Finish – While not a strong finish, it does linger with cinnamon and oak.

Tasted with dried cranberry – This pairing is very light, bright, and with orange zest. It is also incredibly sweet, with hints of confectionary sugar, but the honey is gone. The finish is medium.

Tasted with a pecan – Notes of chocolate, caramel, and nutmeg really come forward with this pairing. The finish is long and lingering with some sweet barrel notes.

Tasted with dark chocolate – Interestingly, this pairing returned the honey and graham cracker. It tastes similar to a honey graham dipped in chocolate. Unfortunately, the finish is almost non-existent.

Final Notes and Video

The Evan Williams Single Barrel boasts a rich golden honey color. The aroma is dominated by honey, perfectly complemented by enticing notes of cinnamon. As it opens up, the light and inviting nose reveals layers of vanilla and graham crackers. Tasting it neat elevates the honey flavor, which takes center stage on the palate, harmonizing beautifully with vanilla and cinnamon. The experience is akin to indulging in a vanilla wafer or vanilla yogurt drizzled with honey, alongside the delightful combination of honey and cinnamon graham crackers. While the finish may not intense, it lingers with satisfying notes of cinnamon and oak.

While exploring the various pairings, we discovered that none were bad, indicating that the Evan Williams Single Barrel has versatility and could be easily paired with a variety of menu items. Wayne found the dried cranberry most interesting while I leaned toward what the pecan brought forward.

Its 7-8 year age helps bring character to this low-proof bourbon. While we believe this could be improved as a 100 proof offering, it might be a solid selection for someone who prefers a lower proof bourbon as it does have an interesting flavor profile. However, with other major distilleries starting to offer this age statement in the $25-30 range, its price point of $50 might deter some possible fans.

Embracing the Craft,
Rebecca & Wayne

Photos and video by Rebecca Herman McBrayer

NOTE: The bourbon 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.

Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey: Such whiskeys have all the requirements of bourbon: Made in the U.S, distilled at <= 160 proof, barreled at <= 125 proof, aged in new, charred oak containers, bottled at >= 80 proof. Straight bourbon means it is aged at least 2 years (and must have an age statement if less than 4). In addition, to be Kentucky Straight Bourbon, it has the additional requirement that it must be produced and aged at least 1 year in the state of Kentucky. For additional information on bourbon requirements, please read this post – Bourbon Whiskey.