Author: bourbonjourney

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/

👍 Did you enjoy this Booker’s review?

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Cheers and remember to always drink responsibly!


❌YOUR BOURBON JOURNEY DOES NOT SELL ALCOHOL❌

❓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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Bourbon & Whiskey News: October 2025

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11/01/25
Curated by Rebecca Herman McBrayer

Bourbon & Whiskey Industry Highlights from October 2025 >> 64 Stories!

In October 2025, the bourbon and whiskey industry faced challenges, including a drop in whiskey production and U.S. exports. Distillers struggled with tariffs and changing consumer preferences. Despite difficulties, notable milestones included aging barrels reaching a record in Kentucky and significant investment announcements from major distilleries. New whiskey releases generated interest as well.

Industry Market News & Related Announcements >> 12 Stories

10/01: Whiskey Production Has Hit Its Lowest Level Since 2019

10/06: Cold shoulder from Canada is costly for American distillers struggling with global trade tensions

10/06: American distillers call for ‘zero-for-zero trading environment’ as exports fall

10/06: US spirits exports tumble as drinkers shun American brands, industry warns

10/09: Distillers group reports skyrocketing aging barrel taxes, amid tariff challenges

10/09: Kentucky reaches bourbon milestone with record 16.1 million barrels aging across Commonwealth

10/16: U.S. liquor consumption plummets, Canadian products not seeing proportional boost: Spirits Canada

10/22: Whiskey Market Size Is Likely To Reach a Valuation of Around $86.38 Billion by 2027

10/22: US craft distillery numbers drop 25%

10/23: Whiskey Company Scales Back Operations, Citing ‘Consumer Shifts’ Toward Marijuana As Alcohol Alternative

10/24: Distilleries Navigate Solvency Issues Following Covid Sales Boom

10/31: Whiskey glut weighs on MGP as Q3 sales fall 19%

Distillery News >> 12 Stories

10/01: Buffalo Trace fills nine-millionth barrel

10/03: A drink with… Lisa Roper Wicker, Whiskey Thief Distilling Co

10/05: Distilling up new trends: American Single Malt Whiskey in Montana

10/05: Jack Daniel’s cuts off free cattle feed to Tennessee farmers after 45 years, could destroy local town. Who’s at fault?

10/06: Hollywood’s ‘first’ official distillery opens in LA

10/17: Heaven Hill’s New $200m Distillery: What It Really Means for Bourbon Fans

10/17: Sazerac investing $38M to expand in New Albany with 25 new jobs

10/21: Investors save Westward Whiskey from bankruptcy

10/23: Buffalo Trace’s Parent Company Is Investing $1 Billion to Expand Despite Industry Struggles

10/23: Uncle Nearest Founders Push Back Against Expanded Court Control Amid Receivership Battle

10/26: Castle & Key Distillery appointments Moore as plant manager

10/26: Four Roses parent company considering $1 Billion sale

Distillery Trail >> 5 Stories

10/02: A New Era for “The Famous Old Brand” Begins in Louisville: Chicken Cock Whiskey Opening Tasting Room in NuLu

10/03: Buffalo Trace Distillery creates new dining experience for guests

10/03: Casey Jones Distillery Launches Bottle-Your-Own Experience

10/23: Top Tier Bourbon Tours Highlights Fall Conditions for Bourbon Tours in Louisville, KY

10/24: Nashville distillery tour among the best in the country per USA TODAY. See where it ranked

Awards Announced >> 2 Stories

10/23: Green River Wheated Bourbon named ‘World’s Best Bourbon’ at New York competition

10/26: 7 Craft Bourbons That Just Won Big at the ADI Awards

Bourbon Festival News & Updates >> None

Bottle Releases >> 23 Stories

10/01: ANGEL’S ENVY RELEASES A 10 YEAR CASK STRENGTH, THE BRAND’S FIRST AGE-STATED WHISKEY

10/01: Town Branch IMPERIUM MMXXV Kentucky Straight Bourbon Release 50% Wheated Bourbon Blend

10/01: Widow Jane Distillery Releases 2025 The Vaults

10/02: Woodford Reserve releases its highest proof rye whiskey ever.

10/02: Sagamore Spirit Debuts Their First High Rye Straight Bourbon Whiskey

10/02: Tennessee Whiskey Trail Launches Tennessee Collective

10/02: World Whiskey Society 16-Year Kentucky Straight Bourbon

10/07: The Ingram Distillery Proudly Introduces 2025 Flagship Bourbon

10/07: Buzzard’s Roost to Release Jim Gaffigan Collab Bourbon

10/08: The 2025 Buffalo Trace Antique Collection Is Here — With Its First New Addition in Nearly Two Decades

10/09: Copperworks Distilling Co. Releases an Ultra-Rare, Limited Release Whiskey Eleven Years in the Making

10/13: Milam & Greene Releases Guadalupe Bass Bourbon

10/13: Pursuit Spirits Releases Kodama Mizunara Bourbon

10/14: Heaven Hill Distillery Announces First Release of Heaven Hill Grain to Glass® Specialty Barrel Series

10/15: Russell’s Reserve Releases Camp Nelson E Bourbon

10/21: Liberty Pole Spirits Announces a Season of Exceptional Whiskey Releases Just in Time for the Holidays

10/22: Jack Daniel’s Tanyard Hill Rye Climbs to a Fiery 148.8 Proof

10/23: Hardin’s Creek® Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey Unveils the Warehouse Series: A Three-Part Exploration of Flavor and Discovery

10/28: Ross & Squibb Releases 2025 Remus Gatsby Reserve

10/28: Knob Creek 21-Year Is Here — the Oldest Whiskey Ever From James B. Beam Distilling Co.

10/29: Bloomington’s oldest whiskey to be released by Cardinal Spirits, who won USA Today awards

10/30: Jeptha Creed Distillery Unveils The Fourth Edition of Red, White & Blue Bourbon

10/30: Town Branch Releases 16-Year Single Malt

Book Releases >> 1 Story

10/05: The World’s Best Whiskey—According To The Author Of ‘The Whisky World Tour’

The Best Whiskey of October 2025? Blind Ranked! 

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🔥🥃 Blind Bourbon BATTLE ROYALE! Who Will Be Our October 2025 CHAMPION?! 🏆

Alright, buckle up, whiskey fanatics! 🚀 Get ready for a showdown of EPIC proportions! 🥃 In this thrilling blind tasting adventure, we’re putting FOUR incredible contenders head-to-head to crown the UNDISPUTED champion of our October 2025 whiskey lineup! 👑

Prepare your senses for an immersive journey into the captivating aromas and tantalizing flavors of these contenders (alphabetical order):

  • Bardstown Discovery #13
  • Chicken Cock Private Cask Single Barrel
  • Cinder & Smoke Founder’s Select 10 Year
  • Old Fitzgerald Bottled in Bond 7 Year

🚫 No labels, no biases – just pure, unadulterated whiskey appreciation! 👀 Join us as we meticulously nose 👃, sip 😋, and savor each dram, dissecting the intricate notes on the nose, the delightful dance on the palate 👅, the satisfying lingering finish ✨, and that crucial je ne sais quoi that makes a whiskey truly special. 🤔

Will the barrel-proof powerhouse 💪 dominate the competition? Will the elegantly aged spirit ⏳ steal the show? Or will a unique finish 🍇 or a captivating single barrel charm ✨ take home the ultimate crown? We’re ranking them from 4th place to the coveted 1st place spot🥇, and the suspense is building with every sip! 🤯

Smash that play button ▶️ and join the ultimate tasting party!

🎉 Grab your own glass 🥂 (of whatever you’re sipping on!), settle in for some serious whiskey talk 🗣️, and experience the thrill of the grand reveal with us! Get ready for potential surprises 🎁 and definitely a fantastic time! Cheers to an unforgettable evening of delicious discovery! 🥳 Sláinte! 🍀

#WhiskeyOfTheMonth #BlindWhiskeyTasting #bourbonreview 

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🔥DETAILS REGARDING OUR FOUR FINALISTS🔥 (in alphabetical order): 

✴️ Bardstown Discovery #13

  • Classification: Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
  • Distillery: Bardstown Bourbon Company
  • Mash Bill: See above
  • Age: youngest is 8 years
  • Proof: 110.8
  • Released: 08/29/25
  • Secondary Finish: (4 months) 61 percent of final blend finished in new American White Oak; 39 percent of final blend finished in Hungarian Oak
  • Purchased: 08/31/25 for $139.99 at Bardstown Bourbon Company, Bardstown KY

✴️ Chicken Cock Private Cask Single Barrel

  • Classification: Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
  • Company: Grain & Barrel Spirits
  • Distillery: For Chicken Cock via Bardstown Bourbon Company’s collaborative distillation program.
  • Master Distiller: Gregg Snyder
  • Mash Bill: 70% Corn, 21% Rye, 9% Malted Barley
  • Age: 5 Years, 4 Months
  • Proof: 125.28
  • MSRP: $90
  • Released: Bottled 07/2025 – Distillery Exclusive
  • Other: Barrel No. 10, Barreled 03/2020; Rickhouse F
  • Provided to us: 09/02/25 at the Chicken Cock Tasting Room, Bardstown KY

✴️ Cinder & Smoke Founder’s Select 10 Year

  • Classification: Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
  • Blended & Bottled: The Bard Distillery
  • Mash Bill: Corn, Rye, Malted Barley
  • Age: 5 Years
  • Proof: 100
  • MSRP: $100
  • Released: September 2025
  • Other: Batch X – Bottle 5 of 497
  • Provided: 10/11/25 to us by The Bard Distillery at KBF

✴️ Old Fitzgerald Bottled in Bond 7 Year

  • Classification: Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
  • Company: Heaven Hill Distilleries, Inc.
  • Distillery: Bernheim Distillery
  • Mash Bill: 68% Corn, 20% Wheat, 12% Malted Barley
  • Age: 7 Years
  • Proof: 100
  • MSRP: $59.99
  • Released: Summer 2025
  • Other: 700 ml bottle
  • Purchased: 09/02/2025 for $64.99 at Heaven Hill Bourbon Experience, Bardstown, KY

❌YOUR BOURBON JOURNEY DOES NOT SELL ALCOHOL❌

🚨REMEMBER TO ALWAYS DRINK RESPONSIBLY🚨

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NOTE:  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.

The Midnight Fog: Dark, Smoky, & Silky Bourbon Sour

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🌑 The Midnight Fog: JET-BLACK Smoked Bourbon Sour (Halloween Cocktail)

Welcome to Episode 42 of Thirsty Thursday Cocktails! I’m Rebecca, and tonight we conclude our three-part Halloween special with the most dramatic drink of the series: The Midnight Fog.

This isn’t your average bright whiskey sour—it’s a dark, velvety, and complex riff inspired by a stormy midnight scene. We’re using Activated Charcoal for its striking jet-black color and a cocktail smoker for an epic “fog” presentation!

If you love sophisticated, spirit-forward drinks with notes of caramel, dark spice, and savory leather, this is the bourbon cocktail for you!

🥃 Flavor Profile

  • Spirit: Bulleit High-Rye Bourbon
  • Color: Jet-Black (from Activated Charcoal)
  • Texture: Velvety & Silky (from Fee Foam)
  • Key Notes: Caramel, Molasses, Leather/Tobacco, Charred Oak, Bright Lemon Zest.

🛒 Ingredients & Bar Tools (Amazon)

We used some specific, unique ingredients for the dark color and complex flavor. Check out the links below!

(Note: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.)

“Please note: Activated charcoal is used purely for color and may interfere with certain medications. Consult your doctor or pharmacist if you have any concerns!”

📝 The Midnight Fog Recipe

  • 2 oz Bulleit Bourbon (High-Rye)
  • 1 oz Bourbon Barrel Aged Maple Syrup
  • 0.75 oz Fresh Lemon Juice
  • 3 Dashes Molasses Bitters
  • 2 Dashes Turkish Tobacco Bitters
  • 5 Dashes Fee Foam (or Egg White)
  • 1/8 tsp Activated Charcoal (for color)
  • Optional: Black and White Edible Glitter

Technique: Smoke your chilled coupe glass with Hickory chips. Dry shake ingredients vigorously for 15 seconds. Add ice and wet shake for 15-20 seconds.Strain into smoked glass. 

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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.

#bourbonsour

#blackcocktail

#smokedcocktail

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#cocktailtime

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Limited Edition Bourbon from The Bard Distillery!

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We’re tasting three incredible bourbons from The Bard Distillery! Join us as we compare the exclusive Cinder & Smoke Founder’s Select 10 Year with both the 2022 and 2025 John Prine “You Got Gold” special editions. Get ready for a side-by-side Kentucky bourbon journey!

Hello bourbon friends! Wayne and Rebecca from Your Bourbon Journey are back with a super special tasting featuring our friends at The Bard Distillery in Graham, KY!

In this exciting side-by-side review, we dive deep into three distinct and acclaimed Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskeys:

🌟 Cinder & Smoke Founder’s Select 10 Year Review

We start with a very special bottle: the Cinder & Smoke Founder’s Select 10 Year (Batch X, Bottle 5 of 497). This ultra-small batch, 100 proof bourbon is the oldest and final three-barrel blend in this specific series.

  • Tasting Notes: Expect an incredible sweetness on the palate, rich caramel, cinnamon, and a very pleasant smokiness that reminds us of a smoked cocktail. At 10 years old, it boasts layers and body without being over-oaked or drying, finishing with tobacco and black pepper. This is a must-try for fans of aged bourbon!

🎶 John Prine “You Got Gold” Edition Comparison

Next, we taste and compare two special editions honoring the legendary singer-songwriter John Prine, with proceeds benefiting the Hello in There Foundation. The proof on both is set at 101.0 to honor Prine’s birthday (10/10).

  • 2022 Edition (Sold Out): A wheated bourbon (corn, wheat, malted barley) with a classic Muhlenberg bourbon profile. Notes of honey, honeysuckle, and sweet bread-like notes. We suggest checking out The Bard’s regular Muhlenberg as a highly available alternative!
  • 2025 Edition (New Release): A rye bourbon (corn, rye, malted barley), aged 5 years. This bourbon is completely different from the others, showcasing a beautiful profile of black tea on the front, caramel, brown sugar, and a vibrant, effervescent finish with cinnamon and pepper pops. This one is highly available online and at the distillery!

🗺️ Visit The Bard Distillery

We also share our love for The Bard’s commitment to community and their beautiful restoration of the historic Graham school building. Find out how you can visit the west end of the Kentucky Bourbon Trail and grab a bottle before they’re gone!

So grab your favorite glass, settle in, and let’s explore this bourbon together! Click play ▶️ NOW!

👇 Have you tried spirits from The Bard Distillery? Let us know in the comments below! 👇

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Ordering Information – The Bard Distillery John Prine 2025 Edition: https://thebarddistillery.com/john-prine-2025-edition/ 

❌YOUR BOURBON JOURNEY DOES NOT SELL ALCOHOL❌

ABOUT THE BOTTLES REVIEWED

✴️ Cinder & Smoke Founder’s Select 10 Year

  • Classification: Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
  • Blended & Bottled: The Bard Distillery
  • Mash Bill: Corn, Rye, Malted Barley
  • Age: 5 Years
  • Proof: 100
  • MSRP: $100
  • Released: September 2025
  • Other: Batch X – Bottle 5 of 497
  • Provided: 10/11/25 to us by The Bard Distillery at KBF

✴️ John Prine – You Got Gold (2022 Edition)

  • Classification: Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
  • Distillery: The Bard Distillery
  • Mash Bill: Corn, Wheat, Malted Barley
  • Age: NAS
  • Proof: 101.0 (in honor of John Prine’s birthday, 10/10)
  • MSRP: $76
  • Released: October 2022, Limited to 6,000 Bottles
  • Other: 700 ml bottle
  • Purchased: 2022 for $76 at The Bard via online distribution

✴️ John Prine – You Got Gold (2025 Edition)

  • Classification: Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
  • Distillery: The Bard Distillery
  • Mash Bill: Corn, Rye, Malted Barley
  • Age: 5 Years
  • Proof: 101.0 (in honor of John Prine’s birthday, 10/10)
  • MSRP: $79.99
  • Released: October 2025, Limited to 7,000 Bottles
  • Other: 700 ml bottle
  • Purchased: 10/11/25 for $79.99 at The Bard Distillery in Graham, KY

❌YOUR BOURBON JOURNEY DOES NOT SELL ALCOHOL❌

🚨REMEMBER TO ALWAYS DRINK RESPONSIBLY🚨

❓Questions❓ YourBourbonJourney@gmail.com

NOTE: Two spirits in this review were purchased by us and one was gifted. 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.

#TheBardDistillery #CinderAndSmoke #JohnPrine #YouGotGold

#KentuckyStraightBourbon #bourbonreview #whiskeytasting #SmallBatch

#BourbonComparison #LimitedEdition #KentuckyBourbon #WhiskeyLife

Wilderness Trail Tour & Rye 7 Year BIB Review

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Wilderness Trail 7-Year Bottled-in-Bond Rye Whiskey Review (Kentucky Bourbon Trail Stop)

Wayne and Rebecca are taking you back to their exclusive visit to Wilderness Trail Distillery (Distillery #47), an official stop on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail (KBT) in Danville, KY and our 39th stamp in our passport book.

This video chronicles our full distillery tour, where we learned about the unique, science-driven operation led by PhD founders Dr. Pat Heist and Shane Baker. After the tour and meeting the distillery’s beloved cat, Cooper, we finally taste a highly sought-after, RARE 7-Year Small Batch Rye that was bottled-in-bond.

So grab your favorite glass, settle in, and let’s explore this bourbon together! Click play ▶️ NOW!

❌YOUR BOURBON JOURNEY DOES NOT SELL ALCOHOL❌

ABOUT THE BOTTLE REVIEWED

✴️ Wilderness Trail Small Batch Rye Whiskey

  • Classification: Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey
  • Distillery: Wilderness Trail
  • Mash Bill: 56% Rye, 33% Corn, 11% Malted Barley
  • Age: 7 Years
  • Proof: 100 (Bottled in Bond)
  • Released: 2023 as a Gift Shop Only
  • Other: Approximately 15 barrels
  • Purchased: 05/20/53 for $75 at the Wilderness Trail Distillery

❌YOUR BOURBON JOURNEY DOES NOT SELL ALCOHOL❌

This Distillery Only 7-Year Rye was aged for a full seven years on the property. We explore whether the low-rye mash bill (56% Rye) delivers on its promise.

Tasting Notes

On the nose, expect floral notes, sweet honey, hints of chocolate, and herbal mint. The palate is beautifully balanced with rich caramel, baking spice, and a touch of lemon peel. The finish is long, warm, and ends with a unique peppermint patty coolness.

  • Mash Bill: 56% Rye, 33% Corn, 11% Malted Barley
  • Proof: 100 (Bottled-in-Bond)
  • Release: 2023 Distillery Only

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🚨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.

#WildernessTrail #RyeWhiskey #bottledinbond #KentuckyBourbonTrail #7YearRye #WhiskeyReview #SmallBatch #SweetMash #DistilleryTour #RareWhiskey #LowRyeMash #WildernessTrailDistillery #bourbon #CooperTheCat #WhiskeyTasting

Wenzel Packard Proof vs. Dark Arts Buff Turkey 🦃

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🦃 The Buff Turkey Legend: Single Barrel vs. Blend | 16-Year Bourbon Battle! 🥃

Welcome to Your Bourbon Journey! Wayne and Rebecca are diving deep into one of the most exciting anomalies in whiskey history: the Buff Turkey! This is the legendary 16-year-old Kentucky Straight Bourbon distilled at Buffalo Trace using the Wild Turkey high-rye mash bill (75/13/12) but with Buffalo Trace’s unique yeast! Rejected by Wild Turkey, these rare barrels are now being bottled by independent NDPs (Non-Distiller Producers).

We’ve secured two incredible, highly-sought-after bottles and are putting them head-to-head: a Single Barrel vs. a Three-Barrel Blend! The Rare Bourbon Showdown: Buff Turkey Cousins!

We’re tasting two stunning 16-year-old whiskies from two rising stars in the Kentucky bourbon scene, Dark Arts Whiskey House and Wenzel Whiskey. Both are true Buff Turkey and carry that intense, distinct flavor profile—but how different are they?

So grab your favorite glass, settle in, and let’s explore this bourbon together! Click play ▶️ NOW!

🥃 Bottle 1: Triple Threat (Barrel 3X)

  • Bottler: Dark Arts Whiskey House, LLC
  • Details: A blend of three barrels (Barrel 3X). A highly-anticipated release at the Kentucky Bourbon Festival (KBF) 2025.
  • Flavor Profile: Luscious, sweet, a pronounced cherry bomb, brown sugar, and cinnamon that beautifully aligns from nose to palate. A phenomenal blend!

🥃 Bottle 2: Wenzel’s Packard Proof

  • Bottler: Wenzel Whiskey (Covington, KY)
  • Details: A spectacular Single Barrel release, named for their location in the old Packard showroom. We secured this bottle via the Golden Ticket experience!
  • Flavor Profile: The same cherry and brown sugar profile as the blend, but intensified, with a unique juicy cherry flavor that has us wishing we’d bought two bottles!

Why is Buff Turkey So Special? (The Origin Story)

Learn the full history of why Wild Turkey commissioned Buffalo Trace to distill bourbon using their exact mash bill over a decade ago (around 2008/2009) and why it was ultimately deemed “not on profile” for them. The Buffalo Trace yeast makes all the difference, creating a unique, delicious, and anomalous bourbon that will never be made again.

👇 Have you snagged a BuffTurkey release? Let us know in the comments below! 👇

Are you a true bourbon fanatic, always on the hunt for the next exceptional pour? Then smash that like button 👍 to show your appreciation for fine whiskey!  Hit subscribe 🔔 so you never miss our reviews of rare and remarkable spirits, and share this video ➡️ with your fellow whiskey lovers. Let’s build a community of enthusiasts who appreciate the art of exceptional bourbon! 

PLUS join us in building a community of enthusiasts who appreciate the art of exceptional bourbon at patreon.com/YourBourbonJourney

❌YOUR BOURBON JOURNEY DOES NOT SELL ALCOHOL❌

✴️ Triple Threat (Barrel 3X)

  • Classification: Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
  • Distilled: In Kentucky (BuffTurkey)
  • Bottled: Dark Arts Whiskey House, LLC in Sparta, KY
  • Mash Bill: 75% corn, 13% rye, and 12% malted barley
  • Age: 16 Years
  • Proof: 122.6
  • Released: Sept 2025 at the KBF
  • Other: Barrel 3X (blend of 3 barrels), Bottle 6 of 132
  • Purchased: 09/05/25 for $299.00 at Dark Arts at KBF

✴️ Wenzel’s Packard Proof

  • Classification: Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
  • Distilled: In Kentucky (BuffTurkey)
  • Mash Bill: 75% corn, 13% rye, and 12% malted barley
  • Age: 16 Years
  • Proof: 126
  • Released: August 2025 at their grand opening
  • Other: Single Barrel, Cask Strength
  • Purchased: 09/04/25 for $275 at Wenzel at KBF

❌YOUR BOURBON JOURNEY DOES NOT SELL ALCOHOL❌

🚨REMEMBER TO ALWAYS DRINK RESPONSIBLY🚨

✅ Please SUBSCRIBE and hit the LIKE button!

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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.

#BuffTurkey #BuffaloTrace #WildTurkey #DarkArtsWhiskey #WenzelWhiskey #KBF #BourbonReview #WhiskeyReview #AgedBourbon #KentuckyBourbon #Bourbon #RareBourbon #SingleBarrel 

Maker’s Mark Private Select BLIND TASTE TEST!

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🥃 Can We REALLY Taste the Stave Profiles?! | Maker’s Mark Private Select BLIND TASTING Challenge! 🤯

Welcome back, Your Bourbon Journey fans! 👋 We’re Wayne and Rebecca, and we’re finally putting our Maker’s Mark Private Selections to the ultimate test in a blind tasting! For years, we’ve bought these intriguing named single barrels—like Kettle Corn, Candied Apple, Box O’ Chocolates, Milk Chocolate Truffle, Chocolate Whoopie Pie, and Creme Brulee—based purely on the title and without ever tasting them!

Now, it’s time to see if the stave profile descriptions and evocative names actually translate to the glass. Do we really get chocolate from the Roasted French Mendiant staves? Can we find creamy notes from the Seared French Cuvee? Or will they all just taste like Maker’s Mark wheated bourbon?

Spoiler: This was much harder than we expected! 😱

We dive deep into A through F without knowing which is which, sharing our real-time thoughts on the nose, palate, and finish. We’re ticking boxes for baking spices, caramel, vanilla, dried fruit, and those elusive chocolate notes to try and identify the dominant stave profiles.

Watch as we try to guess our favorites and reveal the shocking results! 😮 You’ll be laughing as we question everything we know about single barrel selection and tasting notes.

So grab your favorite glass, settle in, and let’s explore this bourbon together! Click play ▶️ NOW!

👍 If you love blind tasting challenges, hit that like button! 

💬 Let us know in the comments: Do you trust a single barrel title? What’s your favorite Maker’s Mark release Let us know in the comments below! 👇

Hit subscribe 🔔 so you never miss our reviews of rare and remarkable spirits, and 

Share this video ➡️ with your fellow whiskey lovers. 

PLUS join us in building a community of enthusiasts who appreciate the art of exceptional bourbon at patreon.com/YourBourbonJourney

❌YOUR BOURBON JOURNEY DOES NOT SELL ALCOHOL❌

✴️ Kettle Corn, Candied Apple, Box O’ Chocolates, Milk Chocolate Truffle, Chocolate Whoopie Pie, and Creme Brulee

Note: This blind tasting video was filmed in just under 60 minutes but has been edited to about 30 minutes. 

🚨REMEMBER TO ALWAYS DRINK RESPONSIBLY🚨

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❓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.

#MakersMark #PrivateSelection #BourbonBlindTasting #SingleBarrel #WheatedBourbon #BourbonReview #WhiskeyTasting #StaveProfile #BlindChallenge #BourbonJourney #KettleCornBourbon #ChocolateWhoopiePieBourbon

Witching Hour Sour: The Perfect Halloween Bourbon Drink

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🧙‍♀️ The “Witching Hour Sour!” A Dark & Delicious Halloween Cocktail! 🥃

Welcome to Thursday Thirsty Cocktails, Episode 41! Tonight, for Halloween Part 2 of 3, we’re stirring up a truly enchanting drink: The Witching Hour Sour!

This isn’t your average cocktail. We’ve taken a classic sour and given it a complex, spirit-forward twist perfect for your spooky celebrations. With a beautiful deep purple hue thanks to the Crème de Cassis, this drink is as mesmerizing to look at as it is delicious to sip.

🌟 Featured Ingredients & Flavor Profile

We’re starting with Wild Turkey 101 Bourbon—chosen for its big notes of brown sugar and cinnamon, making it a fantastic and affordable base spirit.

  • The Color & Tartness: Black Currant Liqueur (Crème de Cassis) delivers a vibrant purple and a delicious sweet-yet-tart flavor.
  • The Spice & Smoke: We’re adding a hint of warming Demerara Syrup and 4 dashes of Bonfire Bitters (they’re more smoky than spicy!) to make you feel like you’re standing over a witch’s cauldron!
  • The Silky Finish: Fee Foam gives this Bourbon Sour its signature silky texture and beautiful white foam top.

🎬 Make the Witching Hour Sour Step-by-Step

Follow along as Rebecca guides you through every step, from the dry shake to the final double strain for that extra-silky mouthfeel. Don’t forget the optional Halloween fun: purple glitter, white glitter on the foam, and a mini witch’s hat garnish! This is the ultimate fall cocktail for fans of bourbon cocktails and anyone looking for a craft cocktail that screams spooky season!

🎬 Don’t Miss Out! Click to watch and learn how to make this show-stopping, easy-to-make cocktail! ➡️ 

🎉 Join the Bourbon Journey Community!

What are you mixing up for Halloween? Let us know in the comments below! Will you give this Witching Hour Sour a try?

We just celebrated our one-year anniversary! If you’re interested in joining our community, suggesting cocktails, and getting involved, check out our new Patreon account!

If you love cocktail recipes and are excited for the rest of our Halloween series, be sure to SUBSCRIBE so you don’t miss Part 3! Hit the bell for notifications! 👇

👍 If you loved this recipe, give us a thumbs up! 

💬 Share your thoughts and favorite cocktail twists in the comments! 

➡️ Hit that SHARE button and spread the whiskey love! 

Cheers to better drinks! 🥂

📋 The Full Recipe: “The Witching Hour Sour”

  • 2 oz of Bourbon 
  • .50 oz of Crème de Cassis
  • .25 oz of Demerara Syrup 
  • .75 oz of Fresh Lemon Juice 
  • 4 dashes of Bonfire Bitters Bitters 
  • 5 dashes of Fee Foam

Instructions:

  1. Combine all ingredients in a shaker.
  2. Dry Shake for 15-20 seconds to emulsify the Fee Foam.
  3. Add ice and Wet Shake for another 15-20 seconds to chill.
  4. Double Strain into a coupe glass.
  5. Optional: Sprinkle white glitter on the foam and garnish with a witch’s hat pic!

🚨REMEMBER TO ALWAYS DRINK RESPONSIBLY🚨

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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.

#WitchingHourSour #HalloweenCocktail #BourbonCocktails #WhiskeySour #CrèmeDeCassis #WildTurkey101 #SmokyCocktail #SpookyDrinks #CocktailRecipe #ThirstyThursday #FeeFoam #CraftCocktails #BlackCurrant

Our 1st Anniversary & a Pour of Russell’s Reserve 15! 

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🥳 One Year of the Journey! Russell’s Reserve 15 Tasting, Vintage Bourbons & Our BIG Announcement!

Wayne and Rebecca are celebrating their YouTube One-Year Anniversary with a very special, well-aged pour: Russell’s Reserve 15-Year-Old Bourbon! It’s been an incredible ride, and we’re raising a glass of “Whiskey of the Year” to you, our amazing Your Bourbon Journey community!

Thank you for watching 75,000+ views and 4,000+ hours of our videos—you’re the reason we’ve done 300 videos in 365 days!

So grab your favorite glass, settle in, and let’s explore this bourbon together! Click play ▶️ NOW!

🥃 Tasting Russell’s Reserve 15-Year-Old

Join us as we uncork this amazing, hard-to-find bottle—a true special occasion drinker—and savor its complex profile.

  • Wayne’s Notes: Rich wood tannin, classic Wild Turkey profile, with a back-end of pepperiness and a touch of dark coffee.
  • Rebecca’s Notes: Immediate notes of brown sugar and cinnamon, with a delightful hint of dark chocolate on the long finish.

🌟 Reflection, Gratitude, and Milestones

A year ago, we went from a simple bourbon blog to launching our whiskey YouTube channel! We’re reflecting on the journey:

  • 41 Cocktails: From bourbon purists to a surprising love for the craft!
  • Vintage Tastings / Sipping on History: Diving deep into vintage bourbon and whiskey history with our friend Brad Bonds at Revival Vintage Spirits. We’ve tasted and reviewed forgotten brands like Hill and Hill, Old Forester, and Old Yellowstone.
  • Building Community: Sharing a bourbon sip with like-minded people is what it’s all about! From fellow whiskey tubers like SLB and Bourbon Judge to our new friends at the Decatur Bourbon Society and our amazing friends, Michael & Dawn of Chasing Neat!
  • Supporting the Craft: Our hearts are with the craft distilleries like Glens Creek Distillery and The Bard Distillery. We’ll always cheer for the small-town folks who are making amazing juice and giving back to their communities.

🚀 Our BIG 2026 Announcement: Join the Community!

To move forward, grow our community, and continue to embrace the craft, we’re making a huge leap! Today, we are launching our Patreon Your Bourbon Journey page! Get more input, vote on our videos, and help us plan a barrel pick next year!

Join us in one of our three launch tiers:

  • Sweet Mash 
  • White Dog 
  • Barrel Fill 

Cheers to all of you for being a part of the Your Bourbon Journey community! We hope to see you there!

What was your favorite moment from our first year on the channel? Tell us in the comments!

Are you a true bourbon fanatic, always on the hunt for the next exceptional pour? 

Then smash that like button 👍 to show your appreciation for fine whiskey!  

Hit subscribe 🔔 so you never miss our reviews of rare and remarkable spirits, and 

Share this video ➡️ with your fellow whiskey lovers. 

Join our Patreon Community as we build a community of enthusiasts who appreciate the art of exceptional bourbon! 

🚨REMEMBER TO ALWAYS DRINK RESPONSIBLY🚨

✅ Please SUBSCRIBE and hit the LIKE button!

✅ Visit: https://yourbourbonjourney.com  for additional stories to enhance Your Bourbon Journey!

❓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.

#YourBourbonJourney #BourbonJourney #RussellsReserve15 #WildTurkey #BourbonReview #WhiskeyTube #BourbonTasting #PatreonLaunch #VintageBourbon #WhiskeyOfTheYear #CraftDistillery #GlensCreekDistillery #TheBardDistillery #Anniversary #BourbonCommunity #NewburghIndiana #DrinkResponsibly