Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey

Why Hidden Barn French Oak Bourbon is a Must-Try

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October 31, 2024
By Rebecca Herman McBrayer 

Wayne and I were able to purchase this particular bottle of Hidden Barn during the 2024 Kentucky Bourbon Festival. For those who are not familiar with the Hidden Barn brand, the press release (below) for this bottle provides some background.

“The brand has been acquired by Royce Neeley from the Neeley Family Distillery, and continues to be created in partnership with Master Blender Jackie Zykan. This acquisition elevates the brand from its inception as an NDP (non-distiller producer) into having a brick-and-mortar home. The first release for Hidden Barn under the Neeley family of brands is a seven-year-old expression, aged five years in 24-month open-air seasoned barrels, and then barreled in new charred French oak barrels for an additional two years.”

Tasting Notes: Hidden Barn Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey Double Barreled in New Charred French Oak

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

Mashbill – 70% Corn, 20% Rye, 10% Malted Barley
Age – 7 years (last two years in new charred French oak barrels)
Other – 5 Barrel Small Batch
Proof – 109.4
Price Paid – $100 (plus tax)

Color – Mahogany. 

Aroma – Great aromas right away. Sweetness, spice, and oak come together very nicely. Possibly caramel or vanilla with fruit notes of cherry or maybe berries and then baking spices. Brings to mind a fresh baked pie.

Tasted Neat – It has a lot going on and it is all good. The vanilla is custard-like, such as a decadent crème brûlée, with hints of butterscotch, and fruit notes that seem to be more of a berry – leaning toward a blackberry. Cinnamon is present as is a slight chocolate note with.

Finish – A long and comforting finish with very dark caramel notes, toasted French oak, leather, dark chocolate, cinnamon, black pepper.

Tasted with dried cranberry – It really made it brighter, apple, orange zest, and the finish is pops of pepper.

Tasted with a pecan – Baking chocolate and a luscious oakiness. The fruit notes are gone but replaced with hints of cinnamon and black pepper. It is very good.

Tasted with dark chocolate – Wow – this is wonderful! It is spicy, more cinnamon notes, sweet oak, dark chocolate, cherry, with a warm finish. Together, it is reminiscent of drinking a fabulous Mexican hot chocolate! Deep, dark chocolate with bits of chili pepper.

Final Notes and Video


First, this is an outstanding bottle of bourbon. Second, we love Hidden Barn and Neeley Family Distillery. If you are not acquainted with them, we hope this introduction has encouraged you to change that!

Mahogany in color, this bourbon boasts enticing aromas from the very start. The harmony of sweetness, spice, and oak comes together beautifully, with rich hints of caramel or vanilla and luscious fruit notes of cherry or berries, evoking the essence of a freshly baked pie. Tasting it neat reveals a complex profile that delights the senses. The vanilla is decadently custard-like, reminiscent of a luxurious crème brûlée, complemented by butterscotch and vibrant berry notes, leaning toward blackberry. Cinnamon adds depth, along with a subtle touch of chocolate. This bourbon finishes long and comfortably, leaving behind dark caramel notes, toasted French oak, leather, dark chocolate, cinnamon, and a hint of black pepper. This is a superior pour from nose to finish!

Wayne and I highly recommend this bottle – find it – acquire it – enjoy it!

Embracing the Craft,
Rebecca & Wayne

Photos and video by Rebecca Herman McBrayer

NOTE: The bourbon in this review was purchased by us. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is simply our opinion based on what we tasted on this day. Please drink responsibly.

Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey

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

Limestone Branch 2024 Bardstown Collection Review

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October 28, 2024
By Rebecca Herman McBrayer 

This year Wayne and I ventured to Bardstown, KY several days in advance of the 2024 Kentucky Bourbon Festival. One day we revisited Maker’s Mark and another day we did a terrific tour at Wild Turkey. Between those days, we participated in the Scotchy Bourbon Boys 4th Annual Bus Tour. It was on that tour that one of our stops provided an opportunity to revisit Limestone Branch Distillery and enjoyed an amazing experience led by the one and only Stephen Fante, National Brand Ambassador.

At the conclusion of our tour and tasting, we did what we usually do — visit the gift shop and determine which bottles we would be bringing home! One of those bottles was the Limestone Branch 2024 Bardstown Collection. This was their first year to participate in the collection and we were excited to taste what Stephen Beam had created.

Tasting Notes: Limestone Branch 2024 Bardstown Collection

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

Mashbill – Historic recipe of 60% White Corn, 28% Red Winter Wheat, and 12% Malted Barley
Age – 6 years
Proof – 100
Price Paid – $259.95 (plus tax)

Color – Dark copper.

Aroma – The red winter wheat is immediately noticeable on the nose and is almost bread-like. In addition, there is brown sugar, baking spices, and a fruit note of either apple or cherry.

Tasted Neat – Wheat toast and a rich creamed corn is present in a rather savory profile. The nose of baking spices has shifted clearly to cinnamon notes. There are also notes of tobacco, perhaps a sweet pipe tobacco, and a hint of cherry is also present.

Finish – This has a nice finish. It starts rather slowly but continues to evolve. It starts with sweet oak and cinnamon and then transitions to pops of black pepper. At the very end, notes of leather start to come forward.

Tasted with dried cranberry – This made it quite spicy with cinnamon. The finish is now a bit effervescent as it “pops” with spicy bursts of black pepper.

Tasted with a pecan – The pecan has brought the oak notes forward. It has become deep, dark, and luscious and has notes of very dark chocolate and a slight hint of cherry. The finish is similar to when we tried it neat as the leather is present again.

Tasted with dark chocolate – It has a creamy texture and pleasant mouthfeel. The spice is leaning more toward a ginger note. There is also a subtle chocolate that is warm, somewhat like a Mexican hot chocolate vibe.

Final Notes and Video

Overall, we find this to be a fantastic bottle. Wayne especially enjoyed its “vintage bottle” feel with the historic recipe using white corn and red winter wheat notes. Rebecca loved it from nose to finish.

In summary, the red winter wheat makes an immediate and bold statement on the nose, reminiscent of freshly baked bread. Accompanying this are enticing notes of brown sugar, baking spices, and a vibrant fruit character, hinting at either apple or cherry. On the palate, wheat toast stands out, complemented by a rich, savory presence of creamed corn. The baking spices have firmly evolved into pronounced cinnamon notes. Additionally, there are distinct hints of tobacco, suggesting a sweet pipe variety, and a flicker of cherry that adds depth. The finish is satisfying and dynamic; it begins with a gradual unfolding of sweet oak and cinnamon, then transitions into lively bursts of black pepper, culminating in an intriguing emergence of leather at the very end.

Wayne and I highly recommend this bottle for your collection and if you are at the Limestone Branch Distillery, inquire if they have any bottles remaining.

Embracing the Craft,
Rebecca & Wayne

Note: We were only able to acquire two of the 2024 Bardstown Collection, this one from Limestone Branch and the offering from Bardstown Bourbon Company.

Photos and video by Rebecca Herman McBrayer

NOTE: The bourbon in this review was purchased by us. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is simply our opinion based on what we tasted on this day. Please drink responsibly.

Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey

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

Old Fitzgerald 25th Anniversary Edition: A Tasting Review

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09/24/24
By Rebecca Herman McBrayer 

Wayne and I have always been intrigued by Old Fitzgerald and its stunning decanter. It has felt a bit like a quest to acquire a bottle, but last year, Wayne surprised me with a beautiful 1976 dusty decanter for our anniversary, which we have enjoyed immensely. You can read all about that special bottle HERE.

Recently, we attended the 2024 Kentucky Bourbon Festival. While we usually prefer to embrace the festival experience without long waits in bottle lines, on the final day, we decided to stand in line for an hour and twenty minutes to snag the 2024 Old Fitzgerald 13 Year Old VVS (very very special). We knew it wouldn’t be long until we decided to open it up to complete a formal tasting!

Heaven Hill Press Release: Old Fitzgerald Bottled-in-Bond 25th Anniversary Edition

BARDSTOWN, Ky. (April 2, 2024) – Today Heaven Hill announced the release of the Old Fitzgerald Bottled-in-Bond 25th Anniversary Edition commemorating the anniversary of Heaven Hill acquiring the historic Bernheim Distillery (DSP-KY-1) in Louisville, Ky and along with it the Old Fitzgerald brand. Comprised of 13-year-old barrels, this edition ushers in the latest release to the decanter series and adds to Heaven Hill Distillery’s bottled-in-bond legacy.

After the catastrophic fire at the Old Heaven Hill Springs Distillery in November 1996, Heaven Hill acquired the Bernheim Distillery in Louisville in April 1999. The barrels used for this release were produced in September 1999, emptied in March 2013 and bottled in February 2024.  When these barrels were tested in 2013, it was decided that the taste profile at 13 years old was exceptional and the profile would be reserved for a special occasion, such as this 25th Anniversary Edition. Thirteen is also a lucky number for Heaven Hill, as the company filled its first barrel ever on December 13, 1935.  

 “The Bernheim Distillery became the lifeblood of Heaven Hill after the setback from the fire and has been ever since,” said Executive Chairman Max Shapira. “We are honored to have been able to continue the Old Fitzgerald legacy since that time and look forward to many more years of exceptional releases from Bernheim Distillery and from the Heaven Hill Springs Distillery set to open early next year.”

The Old Fitzgerald Bottled-in-Bond Decanter Series is comprised of three types of releases: Spring, Fall and VVS. This special edition is denoted by a maroon label. Since 2018, there have only ever been two other VVS releases, including VVS 2018 14-year-old and VVS 2020 16-year-old. The 2024 edition will be available in the 750ml size on an allocated basis as an exclusive Kentucky release to select retailers and the Heaven Hill Bourbon Experience in Bardstown, Ky. It meets the strict requirements of a bottled-in-bond: the product of a single distillery from a single distilling season, aged a minimum of four years, and bottled at 100 proof or 50% alcohol by volume. This edition is available at the suggested retail price of $229.99.

Tasting Notes: Old Fitzgerald Bottled-in-Bond 25th Anniversary Edition

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

Mashbill – 68% Corn, 20% Wheat and 12% Malted Barley
Age – 13 years old
Proof – 100 (Bottled-in-Bond)
Price Paid – $229.99 (plus tax)

Color – Bright burnished copper.

Aroma – Sweet cinnamon toast, hints of a dark sweet fruit, nutmeg, and nice oak notes. Later, it included a smokiness and a hint of pipe tobacco.

Tasted Neat – Very rich notes of honey and french vanilla that is reminiscent of a luscious confectionary dessert. There is a rich, dark fruitiness, almost jam-like. The flavors are like dark cherries or a very ripe red apple. The cinnamon persists and there is also nutmeg.

Finish – Long, pleasant, and lingering. The cinnamon is front and center but the dark fruit remains present to add sweetness. The cinnamon transitions to more of a white pepper with a nice hint of oak. Terrific.

Tasted with dried cranberry – The cranberry didn’t change it per se; however, it muted the flavor profile and finish. Still good but it lost its greatness.

Tasted with a pecan – The pecan enhanced and even darkened the flavor profile by bringing out the oak flavors and a very dark chocolate cocoa. The finish is nice and it highlights the cinnamon notes.

Tasted with dark chocolate – The truly sweetened the flavor profile. The darker fruit and vanilla have become the classic holiday candy of dark chocolate covered cherry cordials. Even the finish is sweeter with sweet oak, cinnamon toast, and hints of sweet cherries.

Discussion and Final Notes

After enjoying this tasting, we are excited to plan a taste comparison with the 1976 Old Fitzgerald. We believe this could be an intriguing pairing!

Its taste profile and overall pour are simply fantastic from start to finish. Considering its age, we were pleasantly surprised by its wonderfully sweet profile. The oak presence harmoniously balances the other sweet aspects of the bourbon. It’s clear that this was aged exquisitely, as there are no harsh tannic notes from the oak to detract from its amazing taste profile.

We were happy to discover that tasting with dried cranberry, pecan, and dark chocolate didn’t dramatically alter its flavor. The dried cranberry added a subtle touch, lightly muting the notes and shortening the finish, yet they still shone through. The pecan enriched the profile, bringing forth delightful cocoa flavors, while the dark chocolate enhanced the confections aspect of this pour. It beautifully showcases the bourbon’s strong identity along with its versatility in ways to enjoy it.

This Old Fitzgerald Bottled-in-Bond 25th Anniversary Edition is highly sought after and available only through Kentucky retailers or at the Heaven Hill Bourbon Experience. If you find one, we wholeheartedly recommend snapping it up!

Embracing the Craft,
Rebecca & Wayne

Photos by Rebecca Herman McBrayer

Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey and Bottled-in-Bond Spirit Requirements

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

Bottled-in-Bond: must be produced in a single distillation season by a single distillery; must mature in a U.S. bonded warehouse for a minimum of four years; and the aged spirit must be bottled at 50% ABV (100 proof). For additional information on Bottled-in-Bond requirements, please read this post – Bottled in Bond.

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.

Sept 2024 – Barrel House Rock Castle Bourbon Review: A Versatile Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey

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09/09/24
By Rebecca Herman McBrayer 

As part of Bourbon Heritage Month (BHM), Wayne and I have been selecting a different bourbon each day to drink. We have a huge heart for the smaller distilleries who are trying to make it in this very competitive environment; therefore, many of our pours have been with the purpose of featuring such distilleries.

We were watching SLB Drinks on YouTube over the weekend and they were doing a blind tasting of various Buffalo Trace spirits plus one thrown in to perhaps perplex them. It was Rock Castle. That flooded my memory with our visit to Barrel House Distillery April 2023 as part of our visit to Lexington, Kentucky. We kept seeing photos and awards regarding their Rock Castle bourbon. However, they said they only released it once a year and we were a few weeks too early. Dang it!



Fast forward one month and we were at the BBQ & Barrels event in Owensboro, Kentucky. Low and behold, I walked up to the Barrel House table and they had Rock Castle on the tasting menu AND for sale. After having a small taste, I was very happy for the opportunity to buy a bottle. But somehow, we got it home and it sat, unopened, on the shelf!

When it was time to select our pour for Day 8 of BHM, it was an easy choice – it was time to open the bottle of Rock Castle bourbon!

Barrel House Rock Castle Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey

Mashbill – 60% Corn, 30% Rye, 10% Malted Barley
Age – NAS (at least 4 years)
Other – Small Batch, Barrel Proof
Proof – 113.5
Price Paid – $107 (plus tax)

Color – Medium amber and with nice legs on the glass. 

Aroma – Butterscotch, dark fruit, light spice. Pleasant and inviting.

Tasted Neat – Toffee, butterscotch, vanilla, plums or perhaps figs, baking spices, and some very nice barrel notes.

Finish – The finish earthy with charred wood, cinnamon, and black pepper. It lingers fairly long and is very nice.

Tasted with dried cranberry – Sweet and bright! Almost cotton candy with lemon zest and other bright fruit notes. The finish isn’t as long but it is fine.

Tasted with a pecan – Wow, it is totally different again. Now the tastes are more along the lines of a chocolate covered cherry with nuts and a great woodiness. The finish is rather short but the taste makes up for that.

Tasted with dark chocolate – This brought out some very spicy notes and it mimics the effects of a jalapeño. With the chocolate note and spiciness it reminded us of Mexican hot chocolate. Fascinating. There remains a nice woodiness and the finish is medium in length. We enjoyed this as well.

Discussion and Final Notes

It was a very enjoyable tasting! The nose set the stage for a fantastic experience. Tasting it neat revealed flavors that closely matched the nose, and each subsequent sip brought out unexpected nuances. This drink is versatile and can be enjoyed in various settings. Whether you’re hosting a party, enjoying an appetizer, indulging in a dinner course, or savoring dessert, it’s a perfect fit. Furthermore, it would likely pair beautifully with a cigar, as its diverse flavor profiles complement the various tobacco notes.

We are very pleased that we were reminded of this bottle and decided to open it as part of Bourbon Heritage Month. If you get the opportunity to taste this, please let us know what you think.

Cheers,
Rebecca & Wayne

Photos by Rebecca Herman McBrayer

Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey Spirit Requirements

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

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.

Sept 2024 Bardstown Bourbon Co 2023 KBF SB Tasting

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09/06/24
By Rebecca Herman McBrayer 

Last night Wayne and I decided to explore the bourbon room to see what we might have unopened that was just begging to be tasted. We were surprised to find a signed Bardstown Bourbon Co Single Barrel on the shelf that was untouched. Upon further inspection, we realized it was part of the Kentucky Bourbon Festival 2023 Flask Force VIP Package; thus, we have a back up bottle in the closet. Our decision was made! With the 2024 Kentucky Bourbon Festival just a week away, it was high time to open this little treasure from last year. Please be sure to read our approach to Tasting Whiskey if you haven’t already.

Bardstown Bourbon Company: Kentucky Bourbon Festival Distillers’ Row Series 2023 Single Barrel

Mashbill – 60% Corn, 36% Rye, 4% Malted Barley
Age – 6 years old
Other – Rickhouse B, Floor 6
Proof – 129.6
Price Paid – $200 (as part of Flask Force VIP Ticket)

Color – A beautiful medium copper with terrific legs on the glass. 

Aroma – Great nose! There is caramel, creamy french vanilla, butterscotch, oak, and a hint of sweet smokiness such as with a roasted marshmallow.

Tasted Neat – Wow – there is a major cherry taste happening. It is a luscious dark cherry that has been soaked in brandy. There is also a light cinnamon and brown sugar that compliments the cherry.

Finish – The finish lingers in a delightful way. The cherry notes are still present and surrounded by cinnamon, brown sugar, and oak.

Tasted with dried cranberry – This turned the dark cherry into a sour cherry with orange zest. The other flavors are muted and the finish is incredibly short.

Tasted with a pecan – This brought forward a lot of baking spices with brown sugar. The cherry isn’t as pronounced as when drinking this neat and it now is more along the lines of a chocolate covered cherry. The finish is spicier than before and it lingers with a hint of leather.

Tasted with dark chocolate – Creamy chocolate with lemon zest and spicy caramel. The finish is medium not nothing interesting. This isn’t bad but it doesn’t enhance the flavor profile in any manner.

Discussion and Final Notes

This pour is absolutely remarkable, and our only regret is not savoring it sooner! The single barrel showcases incredible notes on the nose, palate, and finish. Despite its nearly 130 proof, it goes down amazingly smoothly. Full disclosure, we are huge fans of Bardstown Bourbon Co, and we have purchased MANY of their bottles. This might just be one of our favorites. Reflecting on its release date and age, it could very well be the initial original spirit from their distillery. It wasn’t until 2024 that they unveiled their Origin Series. Steve Nally, you are extraordinary, and we deeply admire your work! Every sip of this will be a true pleasure!

Cheers,
Rebecca & Wayne

Photos by Rebecca Herman McBrayer

Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey Spirit Requirements

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

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.

August 2024 Old Forester 1924 & Single Barrel Tasting

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August 28, 2024
By Rebecca Herman McBrayer 

Wayne found a store pick of Old Forester Single Barrel at Beverage Barn in Henderson on Friday. He wanted to crack it open and I realized that we hadn’t done a formal tasting of Old Forester 1924. Thus, they seemed like a great pair to taste together!

Selected for today’s tasting – each by Old Forester: Old Forester 1924 10-Year-Old Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey and Old Forester Single Barrel, Barrel Strength Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey selected by Beverage Barn.

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

Old Forester 1924 10-Year-Old Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey

Mashbill – 79% Corn, 11% Rye, 10% Malted Barley
Age – 10 Years
Proof – 100
Price Paid – $149.99 (plus tax)

Appearance – Medium amber.

Aroma – Brown sugar and banana – reminiscent of banana’s foster – with cinnamon and nutmeg. Oak and leather are also noted.

Tasted Neat – There is immediately a creamy mouthfeel. Similar to the nose, brown sugar and bananas greet you and have you thinking about ordering a banana’s foster at the first opportunity. There is also caramel, vanilla, maple, light leather and oak.

Finish – The sweet and banana notes fade while cinnamon mixes with smoky notes from the wood and it is very earthy and savory with notes of allspice and white pepper. It provides a very nice finish.

Tasted with dried cranberry – The original flavors are gone but there is a vanilla cream sweetness. Overall, the cranberry muted a lot of the goodness of the original pour.

Tasted with a pecan – This was interesting as it brought caramel and oak forward as well as dark chocolate – much like a chocolate covered banana offered at the fair grounds. Nutmeg takes over as the dominant spice component. Overall, the pecan brought out some nice flavors.

Tasted with dark chocolate – This was not pleasant. It seemed to flatten it out and remove any distinct flavors.

Old Forester Single Barrel, Barrel Strength Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey selected by Beverage Barn

Mashbill – 72% corn, 18% rye, and 10% malted barley
Age – at least 4 years
Other – Warehouse I; Floor 2
Proof – 131.1
Price Paid – $99.95 (plus tax)

Appearance – Medium Amber

Aroma – It somewhat dances with your nose. There are notes of vanilla, cotton candy, dark fruit, chocolate, cherries, oak, and nutmeg.

Tasted Neat – There are many flavors coming forward including wood, toffee, dark cherry, dark brown sugar, dark chocolate, leather, and various spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and clove.

Finish – Medium to long finish with black pepper, cinnamon, and cherries. It continues with seasoned oak and burnt caramel then ends ending with cocoa and leather notes. 

Tasted with dried cranberry – This eliminated the sweet notes and created zesty notes in its place. The finish is minimal. Not a good combination for this pour.

Tasted with a pecan – Very wood forward, pecan, leather, cinnamon, dark chocolate covered cherries, and plum. The pecan played well with this single barrel.

Tasted with dark chocolate – Creamy mouthfeel with vanilla cream and cinnamon. Minimal finish. Nothing bad but nothing great either.

Discussion and Final Notes

Old Forester 1924 10-Year-Old Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey: This mashbill sets itself apart from the standard Old Forester. The 10-year aging contributes to a remarkable maturity, adding complexity from the barrel that we appreciate. What we enjoyed is how the nose aligns with the palate, and the delightful hint of Banana’s Foster, which, surprisingly, doesn’t overwhelm with sweetness, thanks to the underlying barrel and smokiness. When considering the price point, there are other options in this range that we enjoy, but this one stands out. We would recommend trying it first to see if it matches your taste profile. If you are a fan of bananas or Banana’s Foster, then this is a bottle worth acquiring.

Old Forester Single Barrel, Barrel Strength Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey selected by Beverage Barn: The single barrel drinks much differently than a traditional Old Forrester. We are wondering if the higher proof and barrel strength allows additional flavors to remain present in a very positive way. Even with the higher proof, it drinks very smoothly and feels more like a 115-120 proof range. For just under $100 and with the flavor profile and high proof, this bottle is a good value and one that we recommend. Scanning the web, there seem to be quite a few store picks for the Old Forester Single Barrel so it is very possible it is available in your area. Check with your favorite liquor store.

This was a fun and interesting taste comparison. Glad we decided to pair them together as they generated a lot of conversation and we realized that these are definitely our two favorite Old Forester expressions.

Cheers,
Rebecca & Wayne

Photos by Rebecca Herman McBrayer

Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey Spirit Requirements

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

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.

August 2024 Shenk’s & Bomberger’s Tasting

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August 11, 2024
By Rebecca Herman McBrayer 

It is hard to believe that this time last week Wayne and I had just returned from our amazing Louisville, Chocolate, and Bourbon – Oh My! weekend. Our typical trips to Louisville are event-driven. It might be a dinner, a specific distillery experience, or even a bottle release. Last weekend was different. The trip was focused on seeing a long-time friend who would be there for the weekend. It was about friendship, sharing our passion for bourbon, exploring new things, and reconnecting with great friends from afar as well as in the local area. While not on a “bottle hunt” we are always open when a situation presents itself.

The Michter’s Shenk’s and Bomberger’s are typically very challenging to acquire as so few are made each year. While in Louisville, we wanted to share The Bar at Michter’s with our friends. We walked into Michter’s at 4:30 PM on Friday afternoon and I noticed the combination package sitting on the counter. I inquired if they were for sale and the person said, yes, and they are the last ones we have today. Well, there you go. You just never know and it certainly doesn’t hurt to ask!

Shenk’s Homestead Sour Mash Whiskey is a limited edition release celebrating Kentucky’s whiskey-making heritage and part of Michter’s Legacy Series. Founded by John Shenk in 1753, the distillery became known as Michter’s in the 20th Century. This small-batch, full-bodied whiskey is made using traditional sour mash methods in Kentucky, with a significant amount of rye and aged in toasted French oak barrels from the Vosges region, imparting a unique finish and rich mouthfeel.

Bomberger’s Declaration Distillery Bourbon pays tribute to the former Bomberger’s distillery from the 1800s and later as Michter’s in the 20th Century. This 2023 release is a small batch 108 proof Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, continuing the tradition of offering a bold and beautiful 108 proof Kentucky Straight Bourbon. It features a rich and complex flavor due to aging a portion of the bourbon in Chinquapin oak. The oak was seasoned for three years, toasted, and charred to exact specifications. Malted rye was also used in the production of this bourbon.

Wayne and I were excited to taste these side-by-side. Please be sure to read our approach to Tasting Whiskey if you haven’t already.

Shenk’s Homestead Kentucky Sour Mash Whiskey by Michter’s

Mashbill – Undisclosed but with “significant” rye.
Age – NAS (at least 4 years)
Other – 2023 Release; Batch 23D1490; Bottle 911 of 2836
Proof – 91.2
Price Paid – $119 (plus tax)

Appearance – Dark amber.

Aroma – Toffee, vanilla, light butterscotch, spices, a hint of smoke.

Tasted Neat – Very smooth and creamy and different from what was experienced on the nose as it is less sweet and more savory. There is a coffee note with dark chocolate and burnt caramel. The wood from the barrel is present as is a smooth spiciness and a hint of honey.

Finish – Like the palate, the finish is smooth and savory with black pepper and baking chocolate.

Tasted with dried cranberry – The cranberry brightened the otherwise deep, dark notes of Shenk’s. There is additional spice and some zesty notes that were very refreshing, although a completely different experience.

Tasted with a pecan – As often happens, the pecan brought forward even more wood and dark notes. The chocolate is dark and inviting with a nice white pepper and oak finish.

Tasted with dark chocolate – This option brought the coffee forward with chocolate, caramel, and black pepper. It is incredibly creamy and with a nice finish as well.

Bomberger’s Declaration Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey by Michter’s

Mashbill – Undisclosed but some malted rye was used
Age – NAS (at least 4 years)
Other – 2023 Release; Batch #23E1948; Bottle 427 of 2386
Proof – 108
Price Paid – $129 (plus tax)

Appearance – Rich mahogany 

Aroma – A lot of wood influence with vanilla cream, burnt caramel, honeysuckle, stewed cherries, baking spices, and a hint of nuttiness.

Tasted Neat – First, there is a terrific mouthfeel that is creamy and truly coats the palate. Sweet notes of butterscotch, toffee, molasses, and cherries greet the palate. Cardamon, dark chocolate, graham crackers, and a hint of mint are welcoming mid-palate. As it reaches the back of the palate, the cinnamon, nutmeg, black pepper, and tobacco join the journey.

Finish – Medium to long finish with warm backing spices, coffee, oak, mint, and barrel char.

Tasted with dried cranberry – The cranberry really changed it to a tartness of lemon zest with a finish of white pepper.

Tasted with a pecan – Again, the pecan brought the wood forward and a strong cinnamon finish.

Tasted with dark chocolate – This was tasty and very creamy with coffee and chocolate followed by cinnamon and white pepper on the finish.

Discussion and Final Notes

This is somewhat difficult to select which we enjoyed the most as each has something special to offer.

The Shenk’s Homestead 2023 Release boasts a dark amber color and offers a delightful tasting experience. Aromas of toffee, vanilla, light butterscotch, and a hint of smoke lead to a smooth and creamy texture with rich notes of coffee, dark chocolate, burnt caramel, and a velvety spiciness. The finish is smooth and savory, with hints of black pepper and baking chocolate.

The Bomberger’s Declaration 2023 Release has a mahogany color and offers a rich tasting experience with aromas of wood, vanilla cream, burnt caramel, honeysuckle, cherries, baking spices, and a subtle nuttiness. The palate is coated with creamy sweetness and welcomes notes of butterscotch, toffee, molasses, and cherries, as well as hints of cardamom, dark chocolate, graham crackers, and mint. The finish is marked by warm baking spices, coffee, oak, mint, and barrel char.

As always, it all comes down to your personal taste preferences and what resonates with you on any given day. When it comes to Shenk’s and Bomberger’s, the experience is truly remarkable. However, the depth and consistency of Bomberger’s simply resonates with us on a whole other level. From the captivating nose to the lingering finish, every sip is a journey. Being bourbon enthusiasts, Bomberger’s exquisitely crafted flavors nudge it ahead in our book. That being said, we wholeheartedly recommend trying both, and eagerly anticipate the opportunity to savor future releases.

Cheers,
Rebecca & Wayne

Photos by Rebecca Herman McBrayer

Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey Spirit Requirements

Sour mash is a process in distillation that involves using material from an older batch to start fermenting a new batch of mash. It is very similar to the process of making sourdough bread with a starter. Using sour mash has the benefit of consistency between batches. It also reduces the possibility of unwanted bacterial growth. For additional information on bourbon requirements, please read this post – Four Stages of Making Spirits.

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

NOTE: The whiskeys 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.

July 2024 Bardstown Collection BBC Tasting

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08/01/24
By Rebecca Herman McBrayer 

Last weekend, Wayne and I each selected a bottle not-yet-opened that we wanted to taste. Wayne selected the Evan Williams 23 Year Old Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey. I selected the 2024 Bardstown Bourbon Collection by Bardstown Bourbon Company that we were able to acquire at their Louisville location on June 14th, National Bourbon Day.

In 2023, we splurged and booked a two-day Mint Julep VIP Tour that included amazing experiences at the six participating Bardstown Bourbon Collection distilleries. We were able to acquire two of each expression for the 2023 collection. We were not able to do that for 2024 and really didn’t expect to purchase any of the seven 2024 collection. However, we were thrilled when we walked into the Bardstown Bourbon Co’s Louisville Tasting room and saw it available!

There isn’t a lot written about this specific releasee. Some of the particulars, such the age and mashbill of the barrels selected for blending, I was able to glean while listening to a couple brief interviews with Steve Nally, their Master Distiller.

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

Bardstown Bourbon Company’s 2024 Bardstown Bourbon Collection – Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey

Mashbill – Blend of two sourced bourbons:
(1) 72% of a 9-10 year old that is 75% corn, 13% rye, and 12% Malted Barley;
(2) 28% of a 14 year old that is 78% Corn, 13% Rye, and 9% Malted Barley.

Age – Blend (see above), at least 9 years old.

Finish – Each aged individually for an additional 3.5 months in new toasted oak barrels prior to blending.

Other – Bottle #73

Proof – 119.4

Price Paid – $199.99 (plus tax)

Color – Dark amber and with terrific legs on the glass. 

Aroma – The nose is very inviting. There is a pleasant sweetness of rich caramel, vanilla cream, honey, and a hint of cotton candy. Then the barrel characteristics appear with oak, grain, and a light smoke.

Tasted Neat – There is a lot going on with this bourbon. Coffee flavor awakens your senses. Next is the sweetness of caramel, dark fruit, with honey. There is also roasted peanuts and thoughts of cinnamon toast followed by oak and leather. Wow! Really terrific.

Finish – The finish is long with cinnamon, honey, caramel, a slight oak, and nuttiness along with leather and white pepper. The finish persists in an amazingly pleasant way.

Tasted with dried cranberry – Wayne and I differed on our experience with the dried cranberry. He felt the spice really picked up while I felt it smoothed a bit and the leather was present. We agreed that it was less sweet, the coffee notes faded, and the finish was quite shortened.

Tasted with a pecan – The coffee notes returned and it also had dark chocolate, cinnamon, and wood flavors. The finish was medium in length, not as pronounced as when drinking it neat.

Tasted with dark chocolate – A lot of woodiness with white pepper on the palate. The finish is somewhat muted but still present.

Tasted with a few drops of water – Steve Nally mentioned in a video that he suggests drinking this on ice. We decided to add a few drops of water to see if there was a notable shift. The water opened up the nose and the aromas were quite pronounced; however, the flavors were not as prominent as when we originally tasted it neat. Not bad, but we definitely preferred it neat overall.

Discussion and Final Notes

We thoroughly enjoyed this pour! It is a sensational journey on the nose and palate. In summary, the nose provides irresistible allure, offering a delightful blend of rich caramel, vanilla cream, honey, and a hint of cotton candy. Soon, the bold character of the barrel emerges, bringing notes of oak, grain, and a delicate hint of smoke. This bourbon presents a complexity that tantalizes the senses. A rush of coffee flavor invigorates the palate, followed by a symphony of caramel sweetness, dark fruit, and honey. Roasted peanuts and the memory of cinnamon toast dance gracefully before yielding to the embrace of oak and leather. Remarkable! The finish lingers endlessly, weaving together cinnamon, honey, caramel, subtle oak, and a touch of nuttiness, while hints of leather and white pepper add depth. The finish leaves a lasting impression of sheer pleasure.

As is evident from our summary, we are thrilled to have this bottle and a “back-up” bottle. If you are fortunate to locate this 2024 Bardstown Collection by Bardstown Bourbon Co, we highly recommend that you make the investment. We will enjoy this for years to come.

Cheers,
Rebecca & Wayne

Photos by Rebecca Herman McBrayer

Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey Spirit Requirements

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

For additional information on bourbon requirements, please read this post – Bourbon Whiskey.

NOTE: The bourbon 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.

July 2024 Evan Williams 23 Year Old Tasting

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July 30, 2024
By Rebecca Herman McBrayer 

Last weekend, Wayne and I each selected a bottle not-yet-opened that we wanted to taste. Wayne selected the Evan Williams 23 Year Old Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey. I was very pleased with his choice! We originally tasted this offering on National Bourbon Day, June 14th, and had the opportunity to purchase it at the Evan Williams “A Toast to Bourbon” dinner.

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

Evan Williams 23 Year Old Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey

Mashbill – 78% Corn, 12% Malted Barley, 10% Rye
Age – 23 Years
Proof – 107
Price Paid – $399.99 (plus tax)

Color – Dark copper with very nice legs on the glass.

Aroma – Deep and dark come to mind first, including dark chocolate. Spice and honey blend in an inviting way. It is evident this is an older bourbon based on the aged oak notes. But then the sweetness surprises you with vanilla, marshmallow, and crème brûlée. Allspice, nutmeg, and leather add another dimension. What a nose!

Tasted Neat –  Similar to the nose, the tannins from the wood come forward to start, but the sweetness will not be denied. There is vanilla cream, sweet corn, rich cherry, and a lovely honey. Next, rich notes of dark chocolate, toasted nuts, and marshmallow are present. Finally, warm leather, nutmeg, allspice, and cinnamon let you know this bourbon has some great barrel influence.

Finish – There is a medium length finish. The finish includes sweet notes such as toffee, the richness of dark chocolate, some dryness from the tannins including oak, licorice, tobacco, and orange peels, plus a bit of black pepper.

Tasted with dried cranberry – The sweetness of the dried cranberry created a strong oak presence with leather and the finish was greatly reduced.

Tasted with a pecan – This brought the dark chocolate front and center with a hint of cinnamon and tobacco. Again, the finish is very short.

Tasted with dark chocolate – The chocolate actually removed the dark chocolate notes and replaced it with mostly a light cinnamon without a lot of taste and virtually no finish.

Discussion and Final Notes

We definitely preferred drinking this neat. The pecan wasn’t bad and this might be good with a steak or perhaps a nice cigar. But when having a bourbon of this maturity, we will savor and enjoy it neat and on its own.

Obviously, this is an expensive bottle of bourbon. There are not a lot of bourbons offered at 23 years and even fewer that have such an inviting nose, amazing journey on the palate, and a great finish. Given the price of some 20+ year bourbons, we find this to be of good value. While this would not be an “every-day-drinker,” we are thrilled to have it and will enjoy it whenever we feel the desire to dive into some extra age and complexity. With the warm notes from the barrel, we plan to enjoy this once the weather gets cooler. It could be that perfect pour to sink into on a cold night.

Cheers,
Rebecca & Wayne

Photos by Rebecca Herman McBrayer

Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey Spirit Requirements

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

For additional information on bourbon requirements, please read this post – Bourbon Whiskey.

NOTE: The bourbon 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.

July 2024 Booker’s 2024-01 & -02 Tasting

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July 14, 2024
By Rebecca Herman McBrayer 

We picked up a bottle of the Booker’s 2024-01 Springfield Batch in April and enjoyed it so much that we needed to snag another one. Last month we were able to get a bottle of the Booker’s 2024-02 The Beam House Batch during a quick stop at the James B. Beam American Outpost. We have been wanting to try the latest one and decided that we might as well do a formal tasting of each.

The cards of the Batch Story and Master Distiller Notes are always fascinating for us; thus, sharing them below.

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

Booker’s 2024-01, Springfield Batch

Mashbill – 77% Corn, 13% Rye, 10% Malted Barley
Age – 7 years, 7 Months, 8 days
Other – Barrel-strength bourbon, bottled uncut and unfiltered
Proof – 124.5
Price Paid – $111.29 (with tax)

Appearance – Deep amber and with a lot of legs.

Aroma – Bold and spicy, brown sugar and vanilla, oak with a light smokiness.

Tasted Neat – The bold baking spices are noted immediately. It has the sweetness of brown sugar with hints of vanilla and a bit of nuttiness. A very nice and long finish of cinnamon spice, oak, and a hint of leather.

Tasted with dried cranberry – Interestingly, Wayne felt that the cranberry intensified the spiciness while I thought it made it smoother. There is definitely a dominate taste of cinnamon with the cranberry and the sweeter notes of brown sugar and vanilla disappeared.

Tasted with a pecan – The brown sugar returned with the addition of dark chocolate. The finish is medium with dark chocolate, cinnamon, oak, and leather.

Tasted with dark chocolate – This seems to have muted many of the flavors. Instead, there is a symphony of spices alternating and coming to life such as white, black, and red pepper as well a cinnamon. Very long finish of all things pepper.

Booker’s 2024-02, The Beam House Batch

Mashbill – 77% Corn, 13% Rye, 10% Malted Barley
Age – 7 years, 2 Months, 22 days
Other – Barrel-strength bourbon, bottled uncut and unfiltered
Proof – 126.4
Price Paid – $121.90 (with tax)

Appearance – Deep amber and with a lot of legs.

Aroma – Caramel, vanilla, peanuts, and apple.

Tasted Neat – The first thought is sweet. It tastes much like its nose with vanilla, caramel, peanuts, and apple. It is reminiscent of being at the fair and each a caramel apple rolled in crushed peanuts. The finish is long with cinnamon, apple, a hint of citrus, and lingering oak.

Tasted with dried cranberry – The caramel is gone but the apple is more present and the cinnamon is gentle on the finish.

Tasted with a pecan – This really enhance the oak flavors and brought some baking spices toward the front of the palate. The caramel apple is there but it seems to be sprinkled with cinnamon. The finish is very woody.

Tasted with dark chocolate – The sweetness is now muted and black pepper and a stronger cinnamon have taken the place of the caramel apple. The finish continues to be oaky but with enhanced spices.

Discussion and Final Notes

Springfield Batch and Beam House Batch couldn’t be more different on the nose and palate when you consider they are the same mashbill, by the same distiller, similar age, similar proof, etc. Again, this is one of the many things that we love about bourbon!

We love the brown sugar, cinnamon and leather notes in the Springfield Batch. However, we also find the caramel apple and crushed peanuts of the Beam House Batch to be quite tasty.

Springfield provides a rather “traditional” Booker’s experience of a bold flavor profile yet with the sweet notes that we have come to expect in a great bourbon. While Beam House Batch is certainly from the same family, it has a sweeter profile than typically expected and with the addition of apple.

For us, we are big fans of Booker’s and appreciate what Fred Noe does to curate the best barrels for each batch to tell a special story. These are no different. As is common for us, we try to buy and have a back-up bottle of each batch. That is our recommendation for Springfield and Beam House. Find them while they are available as they will be great additions for your collection.

Cheers,
Rebecca & Wayne

Photos by Rebecca Herman McBrayer

Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey Spirit Requirements

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

For additional information on bourbon requirements, please read this post – Bourbon Whiskey.

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.