Get ready for a thrilling taste adventure 🚀 into the shadowy world of Blind Barrels! 🕵️♂️ In this episode, we’re plunging headfirst into the unknown, blind tasting 👀 and dissecting FOUR ENIGMATIC MYSTERY WHISKEYS! 🥃🥃🥃🥃 Can our palates decipher their secrets? 🤔
Join us as we become whiskey detectives 🔎, meticulously sniffing👃, swirling 🔄, and savoring 😋 each anonymous dram. We’ll delve deep into their intriguing flavor profiles and captivating aromas ✨, piecing together the clues 🧩 to uncover what makes each one truly unique.
The anticipation is building! ⏳ Will we correctly identify their origins? 🌍 Which hidden gem 💎 will steal our hearts (and our taste buds 👅)? And ultimately… which mysterious whiskey will rise above the rest and claim the coveted top spot 🏆 in our ranking?
Prepare for unexpected twists 😲, surprising revelations 🎉, and maybe even a few gasps of delight! 😮 You might just discover your next favorite pour lurking within these blind barrels. Hit play ▶️ now and join the mystery! 😉
NOTE: 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.
Get ready to uncork some serious Indiana spirit! 🥃 Join us for Episode 13 of Bourbon Trail Tales & Tastes as we take you on a journey back to October 2022 and our unforgettable visit to Nashville, Indiana, home to the one and only Bear Wallow Distillery!
Forget everything you thought you knew about Indiana bourbon, because this artisan gem is a true trailblazer! We’re diving deep into the incredible story of Bear Wallow, a family-run operation that’s as passionate about their craft as they are about their Hoosier roots. Prepare to be amazed by the dedication of owner Susan Spagnuolo, a true legend who single-handedly fought to pass the Artisan Distillers Law in 2013 – paving the way for distilleries like Bear Wallow to flourish!
We’re spilling all the details from our tour and tasting, reliving the moments we were blown away by the warmth of the people and the quality of the spirits. Trust us, the Bear Wallow crew knows how to make you feel like family!
But the real excitement starts when we crack open two of their finest creations: the signature Gnaw Bone Bourbon and the coveted Gnaw Bone Bourbon Single Barrel! Get ready for our honest, no-holds-barred tasting notes as we explore the unique flavors and character of these Indiana treasures.
The burning question is: Should YOU add Bear Wallow Distillery to your bourbon pilgrimage? We’re giving you our definitive recommendations, sharing whether this hidden gem is worth a detour to Nashville, Indiana.
Don’t miss out on this episode! We’re bringing the charm of small-town Indiana and the bold flavors of exceptional bourbon right to your screen. Hit that subscribe button, grab your favorite tasting glass, and let’s explore the magic of Bear Wallow Distillery together! You won’t want to miss this one! 🔥
In this series, Bourbon Trail Tales & Tastes, we navigate the rich tapestry of our memorable experiences on the Bourbon Trail, a journey that has undeniably enriched our appreciation for this iconic American spirit. We tackle intriguing questions such as: What stands out as the most profound memory of that bourbon trail experience, one that has etched itself firmly in our minds? What exceptional and bourbon or whiskey did we discover during this journey, perhaps one that surprised us with its intricate and delightful flavor profiles? What lasting impressions do we have of that bourbon or whiskey today, as we reflect on its complexities and how they resonate with our evolving palates and preferences? Through this exploration, we passionately recount our adventures and celebrate the stories and connections we’ve forged along the way, highlighting the essence of the Bourbon Trail.
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.
🤩 Ever wondered what a 61-year-old bourbon tastes like? In this special tasting, we’re exploring a time capsule of whiskey history: a vintage Barclay’s Bourbon Straight Whiskey, distilled by Hiram Walker & Sons in 1960. 🌟 We’ll take you on a journey through the fascinating story of Hiram Walker, a distillery that shaped the bourbon landscape. 🌟 Expect detailed tasting notes, historical insights, and an appreciation for the craftsmanship that went into this incredible bottle. 🌟 Join us as we experience a true taste of the past!
✴️ Barclay’s Bourbon
Classification: Straight Bourbon Whiskey
Company: Barclay’s Bourbon
Distillery: Hiram Walker & Sons Distillery, Peoria Illinois
Mash Bill: Unknown
Age: 4
Proof: 86
Released: 1964
Other: It was exported to the French markets.
Key Figures: C.S. Buroff was identified as the Master Blender at Hiram Walker from the post-Prohibition era into the 1960s.
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.
❇️ In this bourbon review episode, we revisit our visit to Rabbit Hole Distillery, where we acquired the Dareinger Founders Collection 2023 and the Rabelo Cask Strength Distillery Series. We dive deep into the tasting of these two exceptional, Limited Edition, offerings from Rabbit Hole Distillery, thoroughly exploring and comparing their unique aromas, tastes, and finishes. With each sip, we uncover the intricate layers of flavor that define these spirits, taking note of the subtle nuances that distinguish one from the other. Every element tells a story of craftsmanship and dedication. Ultimately, this tasting journey not only heightens our senses but also deepens our understanding of the distillery’s commitment to quality and innovation. Without a doubt, we highly recommend adding Rabbit Hole Distillery in Louisville, Kentucky, to your bourbon journey-book a tour, take a step down the rabbit hole, and savor some outstanding bourbon!
ABOUT THESE BOTTLES
✴️ Rabelo Cask Strength Distillery Series 375mil
Classification: Straight Bourbon Whiskey
Company: Rabbit Hole Distillery
Distillery:
Mash Bill: 65% Corn, 25% Wheat, 10% Malted Barley
Age: 3+ Years; Aged in #3, wood-fired, toasted & charred new American Oak barrels
Finish: 4 Months in Ruby Port Cask
Proof: 100.8
Released: 2023
Purchased: 12/15/23 for $49.99 at Rabbit Hole, Louisville KY
✴️ Dareinger Founders Collection 2023
Classification: Straight Bourbon Whiskey
Company: Rabbit Hole Distillery
Distillery: Undisclosed
Mash Bill: 65% Corn, 25% Wheat, 10% Malted Barley
Age: 3 years initially
Then Finished:
Aged in Alligator-char oak barrels for five years
Finished and aged in Pedro Ximenez sherry casks for two years
Aged in 60-year-old American white oak barrels for an additional month
Proof: 102.1
Purchased: 12/15/23 for $295.00 at Rabbit Hole, Louisville KY
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.
In this bourbon review episode, we highlight our recent visit to Old Louisville Whiskey Co, where we enjoyed an incredible barrel thieving experience with owner, Amine Kar. We delve into our exciting purchase from that visit – the 9 Year Old Cognac Finished Straight Whiskey. Join us as we explore this exceptional release, relishing its rich aromas, complex palate, and unforgettable finish. We wholeheartedly recommend adding Old Louisville Whiskey Co to your bourbon journey; make sure to book a tour the next time you’re headed to the Louisville, Kentucky area.
ABOUT THIS BOTTLE
Old Louisville Straight Whiskey Cognac Cask Finish
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.
In this fun blind challenge, we take you on a captivating journey as we blind taste FOUR Wheated Bourbons. They are each 100-107 proof and no single barrels were included; however, their mashbills and percentage of wheat do vary. Join us as we meticulously evaluate and rank each expression, diving deep into the distinctive flavor profiles and aromas that set them apart from one another. Ultimately, we will unveil our personal rankings of the wheated bourbon that reign supreme in our tasting, highlighting the elements that captured our palates the most. Of course, there’s a good chance that we won’t always agree on our favorites, leading to some lively debate and fun banter! Don’t miss this engaging and informative deep dive into the world of Wheated Bourbon, where flavor reigns and every sip tells a story.
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.
In this bourbon review episode, we showcase a remarkable find that took us by surprise – Stagg 24D, an unanticipated fourth release. Historically, Stagg has delighted enthusiasts with three annual releases (A, B, C), making this unexpected addition a thrilling revelation. While we haven’t actively pursued Stagg in the past, discovering this unique bottle during a recent trip to Louisville was exhilarating. We will thoroughly analyze every aspect, from its captivating nose to its impressive palate and finish. Join us as we share our in-depth insights on this exceptional surprise release of Stagg.
ABOUT THIS BOTTLE Classification: Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey Company: Sazerac Company Distillery: Buffalo Trace Distillery Mash Bill Percentages: Undisclosed Age: NAS (at least 4 years; rumored to be around 7-9 years old) Proof: 127.4 MSRP: $70 Released: Bottled in December 2024 but released in January 2025 Other: Barrel Proof, Unfiltered Purchased: 02/21/25 for $99.99 at Neat Bar & Bottle Shop in Louisville KY
Join us for a blind tasting as we embark on a journey to determine which whiskey truly reigns supreme! Throughout this experience, you will observe as we rank and compare a selection of four whiskeys that were selected from our February 2025 tastings.
OUR FOUR FINALISTS (in alphabetical order): *PENELOPE HAVANA COOPER SERIES *SILK VELVET WHISKEY, SINGLE BARREL 7 *STAGG 24D *WOODFORD RESERVE DOUBLE DOUBLE OAKED
Through a blind process, we evaluate each spirit for nose, taste, finish, and overall appeal. We rank them from 4th place to 1st place and then reveal each one. So grab your glasses and let’s raise a toast to an unforgettable evening brimming with celebration. Cheers!
DETAILS REGARDING OUR FOUR FINALISTS (in alphabetical order):
PENELOPE HAVANA COOPER SERIES Classification: Four Grain Straight Bourbon Whiskey Distilled By: MGP – Ross & Squibb Brand: Penelope Mashbill: 74% Corn, 16% Wheat, 7% Rye, 3% Malted Barley Age: 4 years on the Four Grain Straight Bourbon Whiskey Age: 12 months in Caribbean rum casks Age: 1 month in maple syrup barrels Proof: 93 Purchased: 02/15/25 for $149.99 at High Spirits, Evansville, IN Original YouTube Review:
SILK VELVET WHISKEY, SINGLE BARREL 7 Classification: Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey Company: Hargis Spirits, LLC – Henderson, KY Distiller: Jacob Call Distilled: In Kentucky Process: Sour Mash Bottled By: Western Kentucky Distilling Co. Mashbill: 75% Corn, 21% Rye, 4% Malted Barley Barrels: New White Oak Barrels with a #4 Char Level Age: 6 Years Proof: 107 Released: December 9, 2024 (Currently only in Kentucky) MSRP: $79.99 Purchased: 01/23/25 for $82.79 at Beverage Barn, Henderson, KY Original YouTube Review:
STAGG 24D Classification: Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey Company: Sazerac Company Distillery: Buffalo Trace Distillery Mash Bill Percentages: Undisclosed Age: NAS (at least 4 years; rumored to be around 7-9 years old) Proof: 127.4 MSRP: $70 Released: Bottled in December 2024 but released in January 2025 Other: Barrel Proof, Unfiltered Purchased: 02/21/25 for $99.99 at Neat Bottle Shop in Louisville KY Original YouTube Review:
WOODFORD RESERVE DOUBLE DOUBLE OAKED Type: Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey Distilled By: Woodford Reserve Mashbill: 72% Corn, 18% Rye, 10% Malted Barley Aged: 5-7 Years then up to 2 Years in a second barrel Proof: 90.4 MSRP: $199.99 (700 ml bottle) Released: January 2025 Purchased 02/01/25 for $299.99 at High Spirits, Evansville, IN Original YouTube Review:
NOTE: 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.
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
Wayne and I have enjoyed Buzzard’s Roost Whiskey for a few years and have visited their Whiskey Row location in Louisville on several occasions. August 14th, Jason Brauner, co-founder of Buzzard’s Roost, was the guest speaker for the Owensboro Bourbon Society’s monthly meeting. During his talk he shared that they were about to celebrate their 5th anniversary and would be releasing a 7-Year Old and 11-Year Old Double-Oaked Bourbons on August 17th at Whiskey Row. See official press release at the end.
That date was outstanding for us as we would be in Louisville for the Bourbon Women’s SIP Conference during the release. We had free time in the afternoon and ensured that we notched out some time to visit Buzzard’s Roost. As always, we enjoyed time in their lovely bar, had a neat pour of each new release, and decided on the spot that each would be coming home with us!
Tasting Notes:Buzzard’s Roost 11-Year Old Double-Oaked Bourbon
Please be sure to read our approach to Tasting Whiskey if you haven’t already.
Mashbill – 75% corn, 21% rye and 4% malted barley. Age – 11 Years Proof – 113.8 Price Paid – $150 (plus tax)
Color – Rich mahogany.
Aroma – Cherry, toffee, brown sugar, caramel, vanilla, and a hint of smokiness.
Tasted Neat – Brown sugar and cinnamon toast, toffee, sweet oak, dried cherries, dark chocolate, and more cinnamon.
Finish – A terrific medium to long finish with white pepper, sweet oak, a hint of very dark chocolate, and then black pepper.
Tasted with dried cranberry – Many of the delightful flavors became muted and replace with orange zest and a strong spiciness.
Tasted with a pecan – Dark chocolate, deep caramel, and oak. It is very nice and reminiscent of a dark chocolate covered caramel with a hint of spice.
Tasted with dark chocolate – Like the cranberry, this muted many of the terrific flavors. There is a forward spiciness and strong notes of orange zest with cinnamon on the finish. Somewhat better than with the cranberry.
Final Notes and Video
We truly enjoy this offering by Buzzard’s Roost. The 11-year-old, double-oaked bourbon is almost decadent. The rich mahogany color is striking, complemented by impressive legs. The aroma confidently boasts notes of cherry, toffee, brown sugar, caramel, vanilla, and a subtle hint of smokiness. On the palate, it delivers an indulgent mix of brown sugar and cinnamon toast, toffee, sweet oak, dried cherries, dark chocolate, and an assertive touch of cinnamon. Its finish is a bold medium to long experience, featuring white pepper, sweet oak, a whisper of very dark chocolate, and a punch of black pepper. Overall, this is a deep, dark, and complex spirit that compels you to reach for another sip.
Wayne and I highly recommend this bottle for your collection.
Embracing the Craft, Rebecca & Wayne
Photos and video by Rebecca Herman McBrayer
NOTE: The bourbon in this review was purchased by us. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is simply our opinion based on what we tasted on this day. Please drink responsibly.
Straight Bourbon Whiskey
Straight Bourbon Whiskey: Such whiskeys have all the requirements of bourbon: Made in the U.S, distilled at <= 160 proof, barreled at <= 125 proof, aged in new, charred oak containers, bottled at >= 80 proof. Straight bourbon means it is aged at least 2 years (and must have an age statement if less than 4). For additional information on bourbon requirements, please read this post – Bourbon Whiskey.
Buzzard’s Roost Press Release: 7-Year Old and 11-Year Old Double-Oaked Bourbons
Buzzard’s Roost Releases Two Double-Oaked Single Barrel Bourbonsto Mark 5th Anniversary 7-Year Old and 11-Year Old Double-Oaked Bourbons Will Be Released Aug. 17 at Whiskey Row
Aug. 13, 2024 – Louisville, Kentucky – In Summer 2019, when Buzzard’s Roost began with three barrels of rye, Cofounders Judy Hollis Jones and Jason Brauner already had long-range vision (like buzzards do!), leading them to purchase several barrels of aged bourbon to put down for a special day. That day is now here!
Buzzard’s Roost will release Founders Seven-Year-Old Straight Bourbon ($125) and 11-Year Old Straight Bourbon ($150) at its Whiskey Row Experience at 11 a.m. on Saturday, Aug. 17. A limited number of bottles will be available as pre-sale online.
Both bourbons are double-oaked, undergoing secondary maturation in Buzzard’s Roost’s signature, new Char #1 oak barrels that were precision-toasted to coax out very specific flavors from the wood. From Day One, Buzzard’s Roost’s point of difference has been its proprietary secondary maturation – or double-barreling – process that leads to rare flavor profiles not found in any other whiskeys.
“These are some of the most exciting bourbons we’ve produced,” says Buzzard’s Roost Master Blender Jason Brauner. “We bought barrels of aged bourbon and then spent considerable time determining the exact toast profile for the second barrels, to result in the best flavors. They started as excellent bourbons, and both aged beautifully, evolving into even better bourbons.”
As for the long-range vision, CEO Judy Hollis Jones notes that the brand is now in 23 markets (including Canada) and has earned the respect of the most discerning palates. Wine Enthusiast gave Buzzard’s Roost’s new Bottled in Bond Bourbon 95 points, while Toasted French Oak Bourbon received 94 points. Buzzard’s Roost Char #1 Rye was named Best American Rye in the International Whisky Competition, while Toasted American Oak Bourbon was named Best Bourbon in the 2024 Barleycorn Awards.
“The accolades mean a lot to a young craft brand like Buzzard’s Roost,” says Hollis Jones. “But what means the most is sharing these whiskeys with friends and customers and watching our brand grow, reaching new whiskey lovers who keep the momentum going.”
Both Bourbons share the same mash bill: 75% corn, 21% rye and 4% malted barley. The 7 Year Old Bourbon is 109.2 proof, and the 11 Year Old Bourbon is 113.8 proof. Guests can try before they buy at the Buzzard’s Roost Whiskey Row Experience, with pours available for purchase at the bar, and both will be included in tasting flights while supplies last.
About Buzzard’s Roost: Buzzard’s Roost Sipping Whiskey is an independent blender, bottler and distiller of exceptional whiskeys crafted using pioneering techniques. Buzzard’s Roost whiskeys are created using a combination of break-through techniques for secondary maturation including 18-month-seasoned oak barrels for intensified flavors and exclusive use of Char #1 over very specific toast levels to coax complex flavors from each barrel, leading to rye whiskeys and bourbons with flavors unlike any other.
Buzzard’s Roost Whiskeys are distributed in 23 markets including Alberta, Canada and select products are available online and at the Buzzard’s Roost Whiskey Row Experience at 624 W. Main Street in downtown Louisville. All Buzzard’s Roost whiskeys are second-barrel aged and bottled at Bardstown Bourbon Company. Buzzard’s Roost is proud to be a woman-led company. Follow @buzzardsroostwhiskey on Instagram and Facebook.
Your Bourbon Journey 