August 19, 2023, Wayne and I were in Tennessee for a family wedding. Of course, we decided that this was a great opportunity to visit a few Tennessee distilleries. This led us to Cascade Hollow Distilling – home of George Dickel Whisky – in Tullahoma, TN.
Tour of the Cascade Hollow Distillery
Our guide was very knowledgeable and energetic and that made the tour great. She started out by letting us know that we should keep our eyes open for wildlife, including copperhead snakes and minks. OK!
The tour was woven with stories of the history of George Dickel. It started initially in Nashville, TN but really took off when the Cascade Hollow Distillery opened in 1878 and George purchased a large share.
At Cascade Hollow, they have a specialized charcoal mellowing process. They cold chill the distillate to 40 degrees before starting the slow steep through the charcoal. Also interesting, their mellowing vats are layered with virgin wool blankets to achieve a slow, uniform flow. To learn more about the Tennessee Whiskey classification, please review this post.
At the conclusion of the distillery tour, we returned to the “Post Office” and entered a somewhat hidden back room for our tasting.
Fun Facts
Dickel is one of the few American Whisky’s that doesn’t use the “e” in whiskey. George Dickel was a big fan of Scotch, and it does not use the “e” so George wanted to emulate that tradition. In addition to using the Lincoln County Method of maple charcoal filtration, Dickel also uses wool blankets as a secondary filtration.
Gift Shop
They have an extensive gift shop and a wonderful area to have a cocktail. However, we were on a tight schedule as we had a wedding later in the evening. So it was a quick shop to gather up our favorites such as pins, ornaments, a glencairn, and of course – some whisky!! Happy to get a couple of bottles that were signed by the Master Distiller, Nicole Austin.
We did a formal tasting of the 15- and 17-year-old whiskys. You can read about that HERE.
Distillery Trail Statistics
While it is not easy to get to, we recommend it as it is worth the effort to visit.
Cascade Hollow Distilling, in Tullahoma, TN, was our 3rd Tennessee Distillery, 52nd distillery, and 84th distillery visit or event.
In addition to this visit and a family wedding, we visited 2 other distilleries over the weekend – Uncle Nearest and Jack Daniels.
Pro Tip: Plan to visit other nearby distilleries. With advance planning, it is possible to create a terrific weekend trip with multiple distilleries on the Tennessee Whiskey Trail.
Rebecca & Wayne enjoying a Chocolate Cherry Cordial
February 23, 2024, Wayne and I decided to enjoy the Frankfort and Lawrenceburg areas in Kentucky. We only had one scheduled visit that day and it wasn’t until 5PM. It is amazing all the places you can visit in a single day.
Our first stop was at Wild Turkey. We cannot wait until their Visitor Center “refresh” is completed and they are offering tours again. We were told that would be very soon. Meanwhile, the people at their outpost are terrific.
We selected a few items to purchase and then enjoyed a fantastic cocktail – a Chocolate Cherry Cordial made with Russell’s 10 Year. I asked if Jimmy Russell might stop in and was told that our best bet would be after lunch. We decided not to wander too far so we could make a return trip later in the day.
We departed and just went with the flow. Our first stop was Lawrenceburg Bourbon, which is just down the road. Then we revisited Four Roses, Woodford Reserve, and Castle & Key. It was a lovely day to enjoy the beauty of the area. We had worked a good “loop” and the timing seemed good to return to Wild Turkey. As we approached the building, a few folks said – “Hey, someone is in there signing bottlesand taking pictures.” In our minds, that could only be one person!
Visit with Jimmy Russell
We walked in to see Mr. Jimmy Russell and his lovely wife Joretta greeting visitors. We waited for our opportunity to speak with them. They were incredibly gracious and you could tell that Jimmy loved meeting people and sharing stories.
We took photos with him and he signed items for us. We stayed and talked with him whenever someone else wasn’t waiting for the opportunity. This was truly a dream come true and I admit to getting a bit emotional to finally meet him.
Jimmy got into a great conversation with Wayne about Judge McBrayer. He had someone grab publication where he looked up an article about Cedar Brook and was trying to find something about the Judge but couldn’t put his finger on it. It was a special conversation.
Wayne asked him if he loved the aromas of walking through a distillery as much as we do. He share that he really doesn’t notice the great smells because his nose is trained to look for something that is wrong or out of place. Then he knows there is an issue. Wayne also asked which of their bourbons was his favorite. He quickly noted that the Russell’s 10 Year is his pick!
He also signed my Bourbon Trail hat! This really made my day. I could have stayed longer but we really needed a bite to eat before our scheduled evening event.
What a fantastic experience to meet the “Buddha of Bourbon” who has enjoyed an amazing 60+ years making Wild Turkey whiskey! It should be no surprise that he is a member of the Kentucky Bourbon Hall of Fame. He was also granted a Lifetime Honorary Membership to the Kentucky Distillers’ Association’s Board of Directors. Read more of his story here.
Great Finds to Bring Home
In the morning, we selected the Russell’s Single Barrel and the Russell’s 10 Year. In the afternoon, we ha the opportunity to acquire the month’s personal selection by Eddie Russell of Kentucky Spirit Single Barrel.
We also got this amazing crystal decanter and a terrific Wild Turkey sign for our Bourbon Room.
February 23, 2024, Wayne and I had made plans to explore Lawrenceburg and Frankfort, KY. We have been there numerous times; however, mostly for the purpose of completing the Kentucky Bourbon Trail or for another event. For this trip, we determined that we would focus our bookings at places that we had not yet experienced. This led us to Glenns Creek Distilling.
Connection to the Old Crow Distillery
For anyone who is not aware, Jim Beam acquired Old Crow in 1987 from National Distillers. Following the acquisition, Jim Beam stopped production at the Old Crow distillery and now uses a portion of the property to age bourbon. The Old Crow label is owned and produced by Jim Beam, but it is now based on the Jim Beam mashbill.
In 2013, Glenns Creek Distillery began operations in part of the former Old Crow Distillery. The 30-year abandonment of historic distillery buildings evoked a mix of sadness and curiosity. Intrigued by their past, a group led by David Meier has delved into the history of the Old Crow Distillery, seeking to understand its role in bourbon production. They have created a new bourbon in the style of the distillery’s founder, honoring his legacy. The team is committed to restoring and preserving these architectural treasures, ensuring their appreciation for generations to come.
Private Experience with the Distiller
When looking for distillery experiences, I often seek those that seem different or above and beyond the normal distillery tours. While the basic tours are great, when you have completed over 100 distillery experiences, it is important see a different side and learn from someone new to us.
This approach led me to book the Private Experience with the Distiller at Glenns Creek. Friday evening was available and that seemed to be a perfect way to conclude our day. Being a private experience, we knew that we could really spend quality time learning. The description was intriguing … —Because this is a private experience, we can modify it to meet your interests. —In this experience, we will dive deeper into the process of distilling bourbon and other spirits. —This is the experience for the true bourbon aficionado. —This private experience makes a great gift. (and it was part of Wayne’s birthday gift!)
We first watched a video about the Old Crow Distillery. It was very informative. Next, we entered the distillery and joined owner/distiller, David Meier, at the tasting table. He led us in conversation about many of their bourbons, labeling, and an overall love of what they do and the historic facility in which they operate. We tasted, chatted, asked questions, and had a wonderful time.
He walked us through their production area, the mash, the stills, aging, etc. Throughout, David was a breath of fresh air, openly sharing his knowledge, personal opinions, and passion for what they are doing at Glenns Creek. There was time to be serious and time for pure laughter.
Very few pictures were taken as we were totally engaged in conversation. What a wonderful two hours. We are so happy that David purchased the former Old Crow distillery and has brought it to life by making spirits and sharing their story. If you haven’t visited there, put it on your list.
Gift Shop
The choices were abundant for items to take home. For this trip, we decided on the challenge coin ornament, a lovely pictorial book on the Old Crow Distillery, and their in-house roasted coffee (now one of Wayne’s favorites!).
Bottle Purchases
We decided to purchase Glenns Creek OCD #5, SWHEAT, and Cafe Ole. Each is a Kentucky Bourbon Whiskey. Please refer to our post regarding the Glenns Creek Tasting Notes for additional information.
OtherOptions for Glenns Creek Experiences
They currently offer four experiences. In addition to the one we booked, the ones below are also available. We look forward to joining them on a Ground Walk in the near future.
The Visitor Experience is a one-hour tasting while seated inside the distillery. This experience is offered frequently. WebsiteDescription: This is an experience unlike any other distillery. What we lack in shine and polish we make up for with humor and wit mixed in with a good bit of information you will not hear at other distilleries. It is NOT a tour. You will be sitting inside the distillery, and you will have an opportunity to sample 5 of our distilled spirits and sit with one of our distillers (everyone here is a distiller). We do not have a set script and prefer to have a dialog with guests and answer any questions they may have regarding the process of cooking, fermenting, distilling, and aging of our spirits. We build and operate the stills and other equipment and we can explain the still operation. We will review the history of this legacy distillery and the famous brand that was distilled here for over 100 years.
The Unoaked Experience is currently available on Friday and Saturday at noon. WebsiteDescription: During the Unoaked Experience you will have an opportunity to sample some unaged distilled spirits (they have never been in a barrel) and their aged counterparts while sitting with one of our distillers in the distillery. After this tasting, you will have an understanding of what the barrel does to a distilled spirit. We build and operate the stills and other equipment and we can explain the still operation. We will review the history of this legacy distillery and the famous brand that was distilled here for over 100 years.
The Grounds Walk and Tasting is available as scheduled. Always check the calendar. WebsiteDescription: This is a limited opportunity to walk the grounds of this iconic distillery that was built in the 1870s. On this walking tour, you will learn the history of The Old Crow Distillery and an explanation of how the top-selling bourbon was made here. The grounds walk is approximately 1 hour and will be rain or shine so please be prepared for the weather conditions. You will be walking on rough terrain. The grounds walk is followed by a visitor experience where you will be able to sample 5 of our distilled spirits.
Distillery Trail Statistics
Glenns Creek Distilling, in Frankfort, KY, was our 57th distillery visit. On Friday and Saturday, in addition to Glenns Creek, we visited 5 of the 7 distilleries listed below.
Pro Tip: Plan to visit other nearby distilleries. With advance planning, it is possible to create a terrific 3-4-day weekend trip with the distilleries in the Frankfort and Lawrenceburg areas.
Frankfort, KY Castle & Key Distillery Buffalo Trace Distillery J. Mattingly 1845 Distillery Whiskey Thief Distilling
Please be sure to read our approach to Tasting Whiskey if you haven’t already.
With the long-awaited release of Hard Truth’s Sweet Mash Bourbons, Wayne and I were anxious to get the bottles locally and sit down to do a formal tasting.
Basic requirements of bourbon: Made in the U.S, distilled at <= 160 proof, barreled at <= 125 proof, aged in new, charred oak containers, free from additives (except water), and bottled at >= 80 proof. Straight bourbon means it is aged at least 2 years (and must have an age statement if less than 4). For additional information on bourbon requirements, please read this post – Bourbon Whiskey.
These selections are also labeled as Sweet Mash. Sweet mash is a process in distillation that does not use the sour mash as a starter for fermentation. Instead, only fresh yeast is used. Using sweet mash has the benefit of more control over specific ingredients and the ability to use lower temperatures for fermentation. However, it does require more maintenance and extreme cleanliness to avoid contamination. For more information, please read this post – Four Stages of Making Spirits.
Hard Truth Sweet Mash Bourbon
Mashbill – 73% Corn, 19% Rye, 8% Malted Barley Age – At least 4 years old Proof – 90 Specifics – Sweet Mash, Straight Bourbon Whiskey, Small Batch, Non-Chill Filtered Price Paid – $44.99
Color – medium copper
Aroma – sweetness of caramel and vanilla with a hint of nutmeg and perhaps a fruit such as apple or berry.
Taste – less sweetness that on the nose but a very light hint of caramel; has a black pepper finish.
Tasted with dried cranberry – the berry and red apple from the nose is coming forward with the cranberry, the finish is greatly softened but still carries a note of pepper.
Tasted with a pecan – this brought the pepper forward, but it is more of a white pepper and a nice sweetness from caramel is present.
Tasted with dark chocolate – caramel and chocolate are strong as well as some baking spices and hints of oak.
Notes: A very good 90 proof bourbon for under $45.
Hard Truth Sweet Mash Wheated Bourbon – Bottled in Bond
Mashbill – 69% Corn, 19% Wheat, 12% Malted Barley Age – At least 4 years old Proof – 100 Specifics – Sweet Mash, Wheated Bourbon, Straight Bourbon Whiskey, Small Batch, Non-Chill Filtered, Bottled in Bond Price Paid – $54.99
Color – medium copper
Aroma – the sweetness of the wheat really comes through as well as honey and light baking spices, it is very inviting, much like a muffin right fresh from the oven and you can’t wait to taste it.
Taste – sweet wheat and honey, much like the nose, and a very nice finish of cinnamon and perhaps another baking spice.
Tasted with dried cranberry – brought forward a strong black pepper and the lovely wheat sweetness has faded.
Tasted with a pecan – a sweet caramel comes forward and the wheat is present, the finish is more of a light white pepper.
Tasted with dark chocolate – baking spices are really forward but not on the finish, the sweetness seems to have disappeared.
Notes: This is a fine wheated bourbon in the $50 price range. This is something that we will want to keep on our bourbon shelf.
Hard Truth Sweet Mash Four Grain Bourbon – Bottled in Bond
Mashbill – 78% Corn, 9% Rye, 9% Wheat, 4% Malted Barley Age – At least 4 years old Proof – 100 Specifics – Sweet Mash, Four Grain Bourbon, Straight Bourbon Whiskey, Small Batch, Non-Chill Filtered, Bottled in Bond Price Paid – $59.99
Color – medium copper
Aroma – quite different from the other two, notes of sweet cherries. Interesting that there is 78% corn yet it isn’t on the nose.
Taste – cherry, baking spices, and a minimal finish, perhaps like a cinnamon wheat cereal, not as much grain as anticipated in a four grain bourbon.
Tasted with dried cranberry – brings the wheat forward, really warm and inviting.
Tasted with a pecan – now it has the sweetness of caramel and a cinnamon baking spice with a light finish.
Tasted with dark chocolate – very similar as with the pecan … light caramel and cinnamon.
Notes: It is a nice pour of a four grain although not what we were expecting. While equal percentages (9%) in the mashbill, the wheat is a bit more prevalent than the rye. It drinks much more like a “regular” bourbon than a four grain. Perhaps the 9% rye and 9% wheat are not enough of those grains to make a significant difference.
Comparison and Ranking
Aroma Wayne: Wheated, Four Grain, Bourbon Rebecca: Four Grain, Wheated, Bourbon Taste Wayne: Wheated, Four Grain, Bourbon Rebecca: Wheated, Four Grain, Bourbon Overall Wayne: Wheated, Four Grain, Bourbon Rebecca: Wheated, Four Grain, Bourbon
Discussion – Each of the new Sour Mash offerings from Hard Truth is very good and at a reasonable price point. The Sour Mash Bourbon is good and good value for the money. The Sour Mash Four Grain Bourbon offers a different taste profile even though the grains do not stand out like we have experienced in other four grains. That said, due to the price point and taste profile, we would certainly recommend it. If we could only buy one, it would be the Sour Mash Wheated.
We have loved Hard Truth Ryes for a few years and it is wonderful to see them release these new Sour Mash Bourbon varieties with a very approachable price point.
Cheers, Rebecca
Photos by Rebecca Herman McBrayer
NOTE: The bourbons 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.
Please be sure to read our approach to Tasting Whiskey if you haven’t already.
For this tasting, Wayne and I tasted the recent release from Buffalo Trace, Traveller Whiskey. From the Buffalo Trace site: For this first-of-its-kind collaboration from Buffalo Trace Distillery, Traveller brings together the collective artistry of 8X Grammy Award-Winning Artist Chris Stapleton and Buffalo Trace Distillery Master Distiller, Harlen Wheatley.
What is a Blended Whiskey? A Blended Whiskey is a mixture of different types of whiskeys, sometimes with other ingredients. It’s typically made by mixing one or more higher-quality straight or single malt whiskeys with less expensive spirits, neutral spirits, colorings, and flavorings. For example, a blended Scotch might be a combination of a barrel-aged malt whisky and some other grain whisky. In the US, blended whiskey is a combination of straight whiskies and neutral spirits containing at least 20 percent straight whiskey and bottled at not less than 80 proof. For additional information, read Blended Whiskey, part of the Sunday Spirit Notes.
Buffalo Trace Welcome Center
Traveller Whiskey Blend No. 40
Mashbill – Unknown a blended whiskey
Age – Unknown a blended whiskey
Blend – From the Buffalo Trace site: In pursuit of the finest possible whiskey, over 50 blends were sampled before making Blend No. 40 the chosen combination. Blend No. 40 is the carefully curated result of countless hours of testing & tasting and is exactly what you’d expect – a premium whiskey that speaks for itself.
Proof – 90
Price Paid – $39.99
Color – golden
Aroma – very light, sweet such as honey or fruit, not distinct, doesn’t draw you in but also doesn’t push you away.
TastedNeat – somewhat of a creamy mouthfeel, like the nose, it is sweet with hints of maple, caramel, or some sort of dessert.
Tasted with dried cranberry – sweetness again with nothing distinct or specific.
Tasted with a pecan – brought out some complexity of oak and white pepper.
Tasted with dark chocolate – the creamy mouthfeel returned, but it is rather one note.
Discussion and Final Notes
In general, it is a rather nondescript whiskey that lacks complexity. However, with the marketing, availability, and price point, it has gained a lot of attention by those who might not typically drink whiskey or bourbon.
If you are seeking a sweet, creamy, lower proof whiskey at a good price, you should give Traveller a try. For this reason, it is also a great bottle for bourbon enthusiasts to keep on their shelf for friends who might not appreciate a more robust or complex pour of bourbon.
Cheers, Rebecca & Wayne
Photos by Rebecca Herman McBrayer
NOTE: The whiskey 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.
July 31, 2022, Wayne and I visited Second Sight Spirits for the first time. We were in Cincinnati for a weekend event with the Reds and planned three distillery visits within our allotted time. Second Sight was our final stop on a Sunday afternoon.
Located in Ludlow, KY which is just south of Cincinnati, OH, on the south side of the Ohio River, this quaint town is approximately 2 square miles and was incorporated in 1864. Elm St., where Second Sight is located, is definitely a happening part of this small community.
Distillery Tour & Visit
We learned that founders Rick Couch and Carus Waggoner have been friends since grade school. Their backgrounds of Rick being a mechanical engineer and Carus an industrial designer let them to careers on the Las Vegas Strip. Carus shared stories of their time in Vegas and working on Cirque Du Soleil’s LOVE as well as Viva Elvis. I won’t share the full story of how they got involved with assembling a very large still, you will need to go on the tour to hear all about that!
He shared their story of living their vision of creating an artisan distillery to focus on local products in a fun and innovative way. We followed their distillation process, toured the rick closet and storage area. All that they do is accomplished in a very small footprint.
The energy and creativity of Rick and Carus are found in every aspect of their business. Not only do they create a fun and creative experience for visitors, but every employee that we have spoken with always says it is truly a family and they love being a part of it. The culture that they have created helps them to achieve their goal of being a company that excites, engages, and entertains.
Time and time again, when people ask about our favorite distillery or experience along the Trail, Wayne always says that his most memorable and most unique is Second Sight Spirits. We highly recommend that you carve out time in your Trail planning to include a visit to Ludlow, KY!
Photos from the tour: Worm crafted from an old street lamp and other parts found on Craig’s List. Their Rick Closet – perfect for their small barrel sizes. Special spices and grains in containers. Founder Carus Waggoner sharing their story. The Mystic Mustache Ride (yes, it runs) in the bar area of the lounge.
Gift Shop
They have a great selection of shirts. We purchased a pin for my distillery hat, an ornament for our bourbon tree, a glass, and T-shirts.
Bottles Available for Sale
In addition to their Oak Eye Kentucky Bourbon Whiskey, Second Sight Spirits also produce a Hazelnut Liquor (Queen MAB) and several varieties of rum including: unbarreled rum, spiced rum, smoked cherry rum, and bourbon barreled rum. We opted to bring home a variety of their spirits.
Please be sure to read our approach to Tasting Whiskey if you haven’t already.
For this tasting, Wayne and I tasted the Oak Eye Kentucky Bourbon from Second Sight Spirits in Ludlow, KY. We have had this bottle for quite some times as we purchased it on our first visit to the distillery July 30, 2022.
What is Kentucky BourbonWhiskey? Bourbon whiskey must be made in the USA from at least 51% corn. It must be distilled at 160 proof or less. It then must be placed into a new, charred oak container at a proof of 125 or below. In addition, it must be free from added substances (except water) and bottled at a minimum of 80 proof. To add “Kentucky” to the label, it must be aged for at least one year in the state of Kentucky. For additional information, read Bourbon Whiskey, part of the Sunday Spirit Notes.
Second Sight Spirits
Oak Eye Kentucky Bourbon
Mashbill – 72% Corn, 16% Wheat, 5% Rye, and 7% Malted Barley Age – 1.8 years Proof – 92.1 Barrel – 15 gallon with Char Level 3 and 115 entry proof Price Paid – $33 for 375ml
Color – copper
Aroma – honey, grains, barley, sweet cereal.
TastedNeat – wheat, barley, honey with cinnamon and nutmeg on the lingering finish.
Tasted with dried cranberry – added pops of citrus (perhaps orange zest) but no longer grain-forward.
Tasted with a pecan – the grains return in a strong way but the fruit is gone and the original cinnamon finish is very light.
Tasted with dark chocolate – as with chocolate, it is creamy; however, it reduced a lot of the original character of this spirit. That said, it is very smooth and stands up as a solid bourbon.
Discussion and Final Notes
Nice color, great nose, and the viscosity produces lingering legs. If you enjoy tasting multiple grains in your bourbon, you will certainly enjoy this pour. While it drinks terrifically as a neat pour, we can envision it being great in an Old Fashioned with walnut bitters.
If you have the opportunity to try a pour of Oak Eye, please do! Better yet, make a trip to Second Sight Spirits and enjoy the entire experience of what founders, Rick Couch and Carus Waggoner, have brought to Ludlow, KY.
Cheers, Rebecca & Wayne
Photos 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.
February 1, 2024, Wayne and I ventured to Owensboro, KY to partake in Green River Distillery’s launch of their rye whiskey. We had secured the final VIP Tour of the day and arrived early to take in the festivities.
When we arrived and checked in, we were greeted with a donut. What?? But not any ordinary donut. These were by the local Gramps Coffee and Donuts. Each donut was dipped in a delicious homemade glaze that is made with the newly released Green River Rye Whiskey. It was then topped with pecans and a dab of whipped cream for that small creamy bite. Wow – just wow!
We then ventured to the bar to see what specialty cocktails were available. Not surprising, one of the featured drinks was an Old Fashioned made with the Green River Rye – it was very good. Read our tasting notes here.
VIP Distillery Tour
We had the last VIP tour of the day, and it was with none other than the amazing National Brand Ambassador, Caryn Wells. The tour was fantastic. Caryn shared history with us along the way. We got to drink the “high wine” off the still (just over 140 proof) and it was fantastic.
She shared a wonderful “full circle” story while we were in the fermentation room. Originally, there were Cedar fermentation tanks in that room. However, they were sold by Charles Medley to Maker’s Mark back in the 90’s. Ironically, Maker’s Mark Master Distiller at the time, Steve Nally, supervised their disassembly and reassembly. For those who do not know, Steve is now the Master Distiller at Bardstown Bourbon Company – the parent company of Green River since July of 2022. Pro-tip: Caryn shared that if you visit Maker’s, look for the wood that is slightly slimmer than the others, that is from Green River.
We then went to Rickhouse B where all the single barrels are selected. It was there that we got to try the rye. In addition, we were able to barrel thieve rye and bourbon. Amazingly good and we were able to keep the Glencairn as a souvenir. We learned that they rye is a blend of 4-, 5-, and 6-year-old barrels.
Back in the guest center we chatted and talked more about whiskey with Caryn and the other tour guests that we met. It was getting late, and they needed to close but first we had to each get our bottle of newly released Green River Rye Whiskey in commemorative packaging. The packaging was quite creative and both Caryn and Aaron, their Master Distiller, signed our boxes and bottles.
We had a truly wonderful evening and it was difficulty to say goodbye. Wayne and I look forward to our next visit at Green River Distilling.
Gift Shop
We have been here several times and always make a stop in their gift shop. We picked up another bottle of Green River Rye Whiskey and Wayne was able to get some very nice Green River socks and a package of their coffee. We then noticed that they had a few of the limited edition signed event prints and got one of those as well. We look forward to having it framed to hang in our bourbon room.
Commemorative Packaging for the Green River Rye Whiskey
Distillery Trail Statistics
Green River Distilling is the closest distillery to us and one of our favorite places to visit. This was our 7th visit and our 112th distillery experience. Our first visit was November 13, 2021 where Caryn Wells led us through a guided tasting and discussion about this history of the distillery.
For this tasting, Wayne and I tasted the latest release from Green River Distilling – their Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey. We purchased this bottle when we attended their Rye Launch Party on February 1, 2024. Please be sure to read our approach to Tasting Whiskey if you haven’t already.
Green River – the whiskey without regrets!
Green River Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey
Mashbill – 95% Rye and 5% Malted Barley Age – A blend of 4-, 5-, and 6-year-old barrels Proof – 95 Price Paid – $37.99 Other – One of the coolest bottles around with the horseshoe base as a throwback to their historical DSP-KY-10
Color – golden amber
Aroma – doesn’t have a typical rye note on the nose; a lot of sweetness comes through such as honey, brown sugar, and a sweet fruit.
TastedNeat – citrus, like a sweet orange marmalade with honey and graham crackers, fresh rye grass but not as expected for a 95% rye, fruitiness but with a nice rye spice and oak finish.
Tasted with dried cranberry – reduced the sweetness and mostly muted the rye spice.
Tasted with a pecan – A new type of sweetness now, such as caramel and chocolate, but with pepper, cinnamon, and maybe some oak on the finish.
Tasted with dark chocolate – creamy sweetness of caramel, but with a stronger presence of baking spices and then pepper for the finish.
Discussion and Final Notes
This is rye provides a really nice ride. It is a 95% rye that drinks quite similarly to a bourbon. You know it is rye from the rye grass, slight mint, and rye spices; however, the sweet citrus fruit – such as orange marmalade plus the graham cracker tricks your mind to thinking about bourbon.
If we had friends over that said they absolutely do not like rye, I would pour them a taste of the Green River to see if we could change their mind.
This whiskey is also at a great price point of under $40 and should be readily available through regular distribution channels. I believe Green River is now in 25 states, so look for it on the shelves of your local liquor store.
Cheers, Rebecca & Wayne
Photos by Rebecca Herman McBrayer
Spirit Requirements
What is a Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey? Rye whiskey must be made from at least 51% rye. It must be distilled at 160 proof or less. It then must be placed into a new, charred oak container at a proof of 125 or below. Straight rye whiskey is a subcategory of rye whiskey that has been aged for at least two years in new, charred oak barrels and doesn’t contain any additives. If aged less than four years, the label must include an age statement. To add “Kentucky” to the label, it must be aged for at least one year in the state of Kentucky. For additional information, read Rye Whiskey, part of the Sunday Spirit Notes.
NOTE: The whiskey 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.
January 27, 2024, Wayne and I took a 250 mile journey to Augusta, Kentucky. It is about two hours Northeast of Louisville and less than an hour Southeast of Cincinnati. Augusta is a very small town along the south bank of the Ohio River with a population of approximately 1100 people. It is interesting to note that Augusta has a ferry that has operated since 1798 and that is now on our “must do” list when we make our return visit. Fun fact: George Clooney graduated from Augusta High School and his aunt, Rosemary Clooney, called Augusta home the Rosemary Clooney Museum is open to the public.
Distillery Visit
On this trip to Augusta Distillery, we opted to not take the “pardon our dust” tour and instead did a terrific tasting flight. The flight included Augusta Old Route 8, Buckner’s 10-year Single Barrel, and River Proof Series 24 (a wheated bourbon). We enjoyed each of them and decided to take one of each home with us. We later did a more in-depth tasting of the three expressions and you can read about that here.
Their build-out plans look amazing! We look forward to visiting them again once they are further along.
Gift Shop
We love a great gift shop and for a new facility, they had a really nice offering and a good variety. From shirts to hats to glassware. Our purchases included a Glencairn and a Christmas Ornament. They didn’t have a distillery pin for my hat but perhaps they will in the future.
Bottles Available for Sale
They had a terrific display of their offerings.
Distillery Trail Statistics
Augusta Distillery is our 55th new distillery and our 109th distillery experience. It was added to the Kentucky Bourbon Trail Craft Tour after we completed our book with 42 distilleries. Even so, we were able to get the book stamped: it is our 26th craft distillery and our 44th Kentucky Bourbon Trail stamp.
Pro Tip: Old Pogue Distillery is a mere 17 miles due East. Be sure to give them a visit as well!
Your Bourbon Journey 