Blended Whiskey

Bardstown Triple Threat: NEW Bourbons REVIEWED!

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🥃 BARDSTOWN BOURBON COMPANY TRIPLE THREAT TASTING! 🥃

We’re diving deep into the latest and most innovative releases from Bardstown Bourbon Company in one epic review! From double-barreled bourbon to cognac-finished rye and a Japanese Mizunara oak masterpiece, which bottle takes the crown?

Featured Whiskeys:

1️⃣  Maison Ferrand Collaboration (2025): French Elegance Meets Kentucky Spice

The highly anticipated second collaboration with France’s Maison Ferrand! This limited-edition blend of Kentucky Bourbon and RYE is finished for 15 months in premium Ferrand Cognac Casks. The rye adds a new layer of spice and structure to the award-winning (Double Gold at SF World Spirits Competition!) profile. Is this the best finished whiskey of the year?

2️⃣ Hokkaido Mizunara Oak Barrel Finish: The Rare Japanese Masterpiece

An extraordinary journey from Kentucky to the remote forests of Japan! This Distillery Reserve small-batch blend of 9- to 18-year-old aged whiskeys spent an incredible 28 months finishing in rare Japanese Mizunara Oak barrels. Expect a bold, exotic, and spicy profile unlike any other.

3️⃣ Discovery #13: The Double-Barreled Legend

The first-ever double-barreled expression in the acclaimed Discovery Series! This Kentucky Straight Bourbon is aged 8 to 15 years and split for a complex secondary finish in both new American White Oak (for classic vanilla) and rare Hungarian Oak (for baking spice, coffee, and mocha). Master Blender Dan Callaway calls it a showcase of “innovation and tradition.” 

What did we think? Watch the video to get our full review, final score, and see how these three incredible, finished whiskeys stack up!

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

👇 What’s your favorite Bardstown 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! 

#BardstownBourbon #Discovery13 #FerrandCollaboraation #BourbonReview #LimitedRelease #DiscoverySeries #MaisonFerrand #CognacFinish #MizunaraOak  #KentuckyBourbon #FinishedWhiskey #WhiskeyTube #NewRelease #BardstownBourbonCompany #BBCo

❌YOUR BOURBON JOURNEY DOES NOT SELL ALCOHOL❌

✴️ 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

✴️ Ferrand Cognac Finish

  • Classification: Blended Straight Whiskey
  • Distillery: Bardstown Bourbon Company
  • Mash Bill: See above
  • Age: youngest is 6 years
  • Proof: 107
  • Released: 08/29/25
  • Secondary Finish: (15 months) Maison Ferrand Cognac casks
  • Purchased: 08/31/25 for $139.99 at Bardstown Bourbon Company, Bardstown KY

✴️ Hokkaido Mizunara Oak Barrel Finish

  • Classification: Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
  • Distillery: Bardstown Bourbon Company
  • Mash Bill: 
  • Age: 
  • Proof: 109.3
  • Released: July 11, 2025
  • Other: 375 ml bottle
  • Purchased: 09/03/25 for $99.99 at Bardstown Bourbon Company, Bardstown KY

❌YOUR BOURBON JOURNEY DOES NOT SELL ALCOHOL❌

🚨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.

This KC Distillery is Making Incredible Whiskey

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Get ready to explore the fascinating history and innovative whiskies of West Bottoms Whiskey Co.! In this video, we dive deep into the story of a Kansas City distillery rooted in pre-Prohibition heritage and taste four of their unique expressions: Kansas City Whiskey, Convergence Whiskey, American Blended Malt Whiskey, and Distiller’s Cut American Single Malt Whiskey.

West Bottoms Distillery was founded in 2016 by Alex Lindsey, aiming to revive the spirited history of the West Bottoms district – a bustling 19th and early 20th-century railroad and agricultural hub with a thriving saloon scene. We’ll uncover how this history inspires their brand and their whiskies, even featuring a “Murdock” mascot that embodies the industrial age’s hardworking spirit.

We’ll start with Kansas City Whiskey, a pre-Prohibition style blend of rye, bourbon, and a touch of dry Oloroso sherry. This unique “rectification” process gives it a warm, spicy start and a smooth, fruity finish.

Next, we have Convergence Whiskey, a fitting name for this blend of rye and single malt. Its signature Malbec wine cask finish merges old traditions with modern techniques for a uniquely flavorful spirit.

Prepare for a surprise with our American Blended Malt Whiskey, a special combination of our own peated Distiller’s Cut and a 4-year-old single malt. It’s the perfect introduction to smoky, complex whiskies!

Finally, we’ll savor Distiller’s Cut, our premium American Single Malt. This limited-run, hand-waxed bottle is Kansas City’s first peated whiskey, distilled and aged in-house on our copper pot still for a true taste of our craft.

Join us as we explore the unique flavors and story behind West Bottoms Whiskey Co. So grab your favorite glass, settle in, and let’s explore these incredible whiskeys together! Click play ▶️ NOW!

We highly recommend that you add West Bottoms Whiskey Co in Kansas City MO to Your Bourbon Journey!

What’s your favorite state for bourbon outside of Kentucky? 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! 

This is Part 2 of 4 about Kansas City Distilleries! Don’t miss next week!

#bourbonreview #WestBottomsWhiskey #KansasCityWhiskey 

For more information on West Bottoms Whiskey Co: https://westbottomswhiskey.co/

❌YOUR BOURBON JOURNEY DOES NOT SELL ALCOHOL❌

✴️ Kansas City Whiskey

Kansas City Whiskey is a pre-prohibition style of blended American whiskey based on the process of rectification, the blending of up to 2.5% sherry into the whiskey. Our unique Kansas City Whiskey blends Rye and Bourbon whiskeys with a dry Oloroso sherry from Spain. The result is a beautiful sipping whiskey with a warm spicy front and a smooth, earthy, fruity finish. Retail $40

✴️ Convergence Whiskey

Convergence Whiskey embodies this rich history, combining rye and single malt whiskeys into a distinctive blend, which rests in a Malbec wine cask for its signature finish. This cask resting process allows time and tradition to merge into one uniquely blended whiskey that honors both classic and modern whiskey making techniques. Retail $50

✴️ American Blended Malt Whiskey

This truly unique blend is a very special combination of our peated Distiller’s Cut, and a 4-year-old selected single malt whiskey. This complex whiskey will continue to surprise as you sip. This blended malt whiskey is the perfect intro to those exploring scotches with light smoke and intricate flavors. Retail $60

✴️ Distiller’s Cut – American Single Malt Whiskey

Our premium offering. 100% distilled and aged by West Bottoms Whiskey Co. on our 211-gallon copper alembic pot still. The first peated whiskey in Kansas City. 50% malted barley/ 50% peated malt. Aged 1 year in 5-gallon barrels. Limited runs being released. and available in our Parlor. Each bottle has been hand wax dipped and crested with our seal. Retail $70 (375 ml)

❌YOUR BOURBON JOURNEY DOES NOT SELL ALCOHOL❌

🚨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.

June 2025 Whiskey of the Month: Blind Reveal! 

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🔥🥃 Blind Whiskey BATTLE ROYALE! Who Will Be Our June 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 June 2025 whiskey lineup! 👑

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

✴️ Dark Arts Finished in Red Port and White Port Wine Casks

✴️ Little Book Chapter 9 – None for Granted

✴️ RD1 Sister Cities 2025 Limited Release

✴️ Star Hill Farm Whisky 2025

🚫 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 

❌YOUR BOURBON JOURNEY DOES NOT SELL ALCOHOL❌

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

✴️ Dark Arts Finished in Red Port and White Port Wine Casks

  • Classification: Straight Bourbon Whiskey
  • Distilled in Indiana; Bottled in Sparta, KY
  • Mash Bill: Unknown
  • Age: 8 Years
  • Proof: 116.5
  • Released: 2025
  • Other: Cask Strength, Bottle 284, Batch WP101 & BRP30
  • Purchased: 05/16/25 for $104.99 at their Lexington Soft Opening
  • Original YouTube Review: https://youtu.be/J_-0xWHz6dQ 

✴️ Little Book Chapter 9 – None for Granted

  • Classification: Blended Straight Whiskey
  • Company: Beam Suntory
  • Distillery: Jim Beam Distillery
  • Mash Bill: This chapter is a blend of one 8-year-old Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey and four different Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskeys aged 7, 7, 8, and 11 years.
  • Age: youngest is 7 years old
  • Proof: 121.8 (highest since Ch 4)
  • MSRP: $159.99
  • Released: 05/15/25
  • Other: Previewed at dinner 05/14/25
  • Purchased: 05/16/25 for $160.00 at Jim Beam American Outpost
  • Original YouTube Review: https://youtu.be/4f93xVR6zqQ 

✴️ RD1 Sister Cities 2025 Limited Release

  • Classification: Kentucky Straight Whiskey
  • Bottled by: RD1 Spirits
  • Mash Bill: Undisclosed
  • Age: 5- & 7-Year Bourbon; 8 Year Rye
  • Proof: 102
  • MSRP: 69.99
  • Purchased: 05/10/28 for $69.99 at BBQ & Barrels
  • Original YouTube Review: https://youtu.be/NWFb_qUhFAQ

✴️ Star Hill Farm Whisky 2025

  • Classification: American Wheat Whisky
  • Company: 
  • Distillery: 
  • Mash Bill: Blend of two: 70% Soft Red Winter Wheat & 30% Malted Barley; and 100% Malted Soft Red Winter Wheat
  • Age: 7-8 Years
  • Proof: 114.7
  • MSRP: $100
  • Released: May 2025
  • Other: First new mashbill in 70 years
  • Purchased: 05/16/28 for $100 at Maker’s Mark Distillery
  • Original YouTube Review: https://youtu.be/ofmyRJc0KYQ 

❌YOUR BOURBON JOURNEY DOES NOT SELL ALCOHOL❌

🚨REMEMBER TO ALWAYS DRINK RESPONSIBLY🚨

✅ Please SUBSCRIBE and hit the LIKE button!

❓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.

RD1 Limited Release – BurRye Finished in French Oak & Japanese Mizunara

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Get ready to embark on a thrilling whiskey journey with us! Last month, we hit the iconic Kentucky Bourbon Trail, but our adventure took an unexpected turn after leaving Maker’s Mark and Jim Beam. Prepare to be amazed as we whisk you away to The Kentucky Castle in Versailles – truly a treat for the senses!

Then, it was on to Lexington and the brand-new RD1 Visitor Experience! We dove deep into their captivating educational displays, explored their unique gift shops, and discovered their exciting experience offerings. But the real magic happened at their new bar, where we indulged in exclusive tastings of their experimental offerings.

And the grand finale? We snagged a bottle of the highly anticipated Sister Cities 2025 Limited Release! RD1 describes it as a harmonious blend of America’s Native Spirit with wood from Shinhidaka, Japan, and Deauville, France. Imagine the “sweet sophistication of French Oak” dancing with the “woodsy nature of Mizunara” in a perfectly aged Bourbon and Rye. Mind. Blown.

We were absolutely ecstatic to get our hands on this bottle, and now we’re sharing every single detail with you! Join us as we meticulously explore what makes this dual-finished, special blend so extraordinary. We’ll observe, nose, taste, and discuss every captivating nuance.

Spoiler Alert! This isn’t just a fantastic bottle of Kentucky Straight Whiskey – it’s an unforgettable experience in a glass! Don’t let this extraordinary expression slip through your fingers!

Click play ▶️ now to join us for our unfiltered tasting notes and discover what truly makes the RD1 Sister Cities 2025 Limited Release so incredibly special. You won’t want to miss it! 👇

Are you as passionate about bourbon and discovering rare finds as we are? Show us some love by giving this video a thumbs up 👍, hit that subscribe button 🔔 so you’re always first to know about the most exciting whiskey releases, and share this with your fellow enthusiasts and tasting buddies! ➡️

Let’s raise a glass to rare finds, exceptional spirits, and unforgettable moments. Cheers! 🥂🥃

#bourbon #RD1 #BurRye 

❌YOUR BOURBON JOURNEY DOES NOT SELL ALCOHOL❌

✴️ Sister Cities 2025 Limited Release

  • Classification: Kentucky Straight Whiskey
  • Bottled by: RD1 Spirits
  • Mash Bill: Undisclosed
  • Age: 5 & 7 Year Bourbon; 8 Year Rye
  • Proof: 102
  • MSRP: 69.99
  • Purchased: 05/10/28 for $69.99 at BBQ & Barrels

❌YOUR BOURBON JOURNEY DOES NOT SELL ALCOHOL❌

🚨REMEMBER TO ALWAYS DRINK RESPONSIBLY🚨

✅ Please SUBSCRIBE and hit the LIKE button!

❓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.

The Secret of Little Book Chapter 9 Revealed! 

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Get ready, whiskey lovers! In this highly anticipated video, we’re uncorking and diving deep into our very first taste of Jim Beam’s latest masterpiece: Little Book Chapter 9 – “None for Granted.” 🥃 What liquid magic has Freddie Noe conjured up for this year’s highly anticipated annual release? Prepare yourselves for a truly unique and intriguing BurRye blend! 🤩

Join us as we break down everything you need to know about the 2025 Little Book Chapter 9. We’ll reveal all the fascinating details, including the exciting fact that this is the highest proof Little Book release since Chapter 4! 🔥 From the moment it hits the glass, we’ll guide you through an immersive sensory experience, exploring its complex nose, savoring every nuanced note on the palate, and dissecting its lingering finish.

Then, the moment of truth arrives, the question every whiskey aficionado wants answered: Will the 2025 Little Book Chapter 9: None for Granted earn a coveted spot in your collection (“Buy”), a respectful nod (“Pass”), or an urgent acquisition (“Back up!”)? 🤔 Our unvarnished, no-holds-barred opinion awaits! You won’t want to miss our definitive verdict.

This annual release is more than just a bottle; it’s a legacy. Don’t let this extraordinary expression slip through your fingers! Click play ▶️ now to join us for our unfiltered tasting notes and discover if the hype around “None for Granted” is truly deserved. 👇

Are you as passionate about bourbon as we are? Show us some love by giving this video a thumbs up 👍, hit that subscribe button 🔔 so you’re always first to know about the most exciting whiskey releases, and share this with your fellow enthusiasts and tasting buddies! ➡️ Let’s raise a glass to rare finds, exceptional spirits, and unforgettable moments. Cheers! 🥂🥃

#bourbon #JimBeam #LittleBook 

❌YOUR BOURBON JOURNEY DOES NOT SELL ALCOHOL❌

✴️ Little Book Chapter 9 – None for Granted

  • Classification: Blended Straight Whiskey
  • Company: Beam Suntory
  • Distillery: Jim Beam Distillery
  • Mash Bill: This chapter is a blend of one 8-year-old Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey and four different Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskeys aged 7, 7, 8, and 11 years.
  • Age: youngest is 7 years old
  • Proof: 121.8 (highest since Ch 4)
  • MSRP: $159.99
  • Released: 05/15/25
  • Other: Previewed at dinner 05/14/25
  • Purchased: 05/16/25 for $160.00 at Jim Beam American Outpost

❌YOUR BOURBON JOURNEY DOES NOT SELL ALCOHOL❌

🚨REMEMBER TO ALWAYS DRINK RESPONSIBLY🚨

✅ Please SUBSCRIBE and hit the LIKE button!

❓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.

What Makes Little Book the Infinite Edition 1 SO SPECIAL? 

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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

AMAZON AFFILIATE LINKS (commissions earned):

GLENCAIRN Whiskey Glass, Gift Set of 4: https://amzn.to/4ak8DOR

CairnCaps Bamboo Whiskey Glass Lids – Set of 6: https://amzn.to/4hgIJh0 

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

July 2024 Little Book Chapter 8 Tasting

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July 9, 2024
By Rebecca Herman McBrayer 

Wayne and I had been very curious about Freddie Noe’s Little Book Chapter 8: Path Not Taken. During our mid-June trip to Louisville, we had some extra time and decided to drive to Clermont to see if the James B Beam American Outpost had it. They did and we purchased one bottle. We have been traveling a bit since then and finally had an opportunity to take some time with a formal tasting of this expression.

From their website: Knowing that rye has roots extending to the beginning of American Whiskey and holds more than two centuries of heritage, you could say, “it’s been done.” But with this chapter, “Path Not Taken,” we explore the future of American Rye by blending a unique range of rye whiskies together and show you that rye still has plenty of stories left to tell.

Undisclosed blend of the following:
18yrs Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey (High Rye)
11yrs Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey
7yrs Kentucky Straight Rye Malt Whiskey
5yrs Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey (KY Family-Style, Char 4)
5yrs Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey (PA Family-Style, Char 1)
5yrs Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey (PA Family-Style, Char 4)
4yrs Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey

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

Little Book Chapter 8: Path Not Taken

Mashbill – Blend of 7 (see above)
Age – NAS (blend of 4-18 years)
Proof – 118.1
Price Paid – $169.60 (with tax)

Appearance – Deep copper. Great legs.  

Aroma – Sweet rye bread, butterscotch, dill, honey. It is truly inviting.

Tasted Neat – Wow! There is so much going on! Like the nose, there is rye bread, butterscotch, honey and dill. There is the addition of floral notes, apricot and a hearty/yeasty dough. It has a lot of viscosity for a terrific mouthfeel.

Finish: Incredibly long and lingering in a most pleasant manner. There is white pepper, a lot of rye spice, apricot, and oak.  

Tasted with dried cranberry – This truly brings out the ryegrass. The other flavors have been somewhat muted but there is still a bit of sweetness from apricot on the back and toasted rye bread lingers on the finish.

Tasted with a pecan – That is much spicer than it was and not in a pleasant way. A lot of barrel char seems present and in a more bitter manner.

Tasted with dark chocolate – The tastiness of the rye bread returned but the apricot is still missing but a hint of butterscotch returned. The finish is greatly diminished from when it was tasted neat.

Discussion and Final Notes

While not technically a Rye Whiskey (due to the bourbon inclusion), everything about this American Blended Straight Whiskey says, “Hey – look at me. Just taste me. You think I’m a Rye, don’t you?” From the aroma, to the taste, and with the finish … you would swear it is a Rye!

The Path Not Taken is incredibly complex at each stage. The blending of this by Freddie Noe was truly masterful. Wayne and I thoroughly enjoyed it. That said, it isn’t a multiple pour drink – perhaps due to the complexity, spice, or proof. The positive of that is that we plan to enjoy this bottle again and again, one pour at a time. We are thrilled to have it in our portfolio!

Based on how it tasted with the dried cranberry, pecan, and dark chocolate, it could be a challenge to pair successfully with a meal unless you have some particular expertise. For us, the cranberry was the best pairing and that might indicate that it would be terrific with appetizers such as a charcuterie plate or even with a light salad. For us, we will likely enjoy it most often as a pre-dinner drink.

Again, we enjoyed this very much. If you love Rye, please consider picking up a bottle when you see one as we do not believe you will be disappointed. Regardless of your preference for Rye, we highly recommend at least taking advantage of a pour, when available, at your favorite pub.

Cheers,
Rebecca & Wayne

Photos by Rebecca Herman McBrayer

Spirit Requirements

Straight Whiskey – Distilled at <= 160 proof, barreled at <= 125 proof, aged in new, charred oak containers, bottled at >= 80 proof. Aged at least 2 years (and must have an age statement if less than 4).

Rye Whiskey Basic Requirements – 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. For additional information on bourbon requirements, please read this post – Rye Whiskey.

NOTE: The spirit in this review was 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.

February 2024 Traveller Whiskey Tasting

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02/27/24
By Rebecca Herman McBrayer

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.

Tasted Neat –  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.