Spirit Tastings

July’s Whiskey of the Month! 

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

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

  • ✴️ Booker’s 2025-02 “By the Pond” Batch
  • ✴️ Maker’s Mark Keepers Release
  • ✴️ Penelope: Cigar Sessions – Chapter 1
  • ✴️ W.H. McBrayer 2025 Release, Batch 5

🚫 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 

Half Way – 2025 Whiskey of the Year Preview:

❌YOUR BOURBON JOURNEY DOES NOT SELL ALCOHOL❌

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

✴️ Booker’s 2025-02 “By the Pond” Batch

  • Classification: Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
  • Company: Beam Suntory
  • Distillery: Jim Beam Distillery
  • Mash Bill: 77% Corn, 13% Rye, 10% Malted Barley
  • Age: 7 years, 1 month, and 20 days
  • Proof: 126.5
  • Blend: This particular batch is a complex blend of barrels from various locations within 8 different warehouses. The largest percentage (29%) came from the sixth floor of warehouse G at Waterfill, a seven-story warehouse.
  • MSRP: $100
  • Released: June 2025
  • Purchased: 07/03/25 for $110 at Archie & Clyde’s Restaurant in Newburgh IN
  • Original YouTube Review:

✴️ Maker’s Mark Keepers Release

  • Classification: Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
  • Company: 
  • Distillery: Maker’s Mark
  • Mash Bill: 70% Corn, 16% Wheat, 14% Malted Barley
  • Age: NAS (about 6 years)
  • Proof: 109.2
  • MSRP: $74.99
  • Released: March 2025
  • Purchased: 05/01/25 for $74.99 at Maker’s Mark Distillery
  • Original YouTube Review:  

✴️ Penelope: Cigar Sessions – Chapter 1

  • Classification: American Whiskey
  • Distillery: Ross & Squibb Distillery (MGP)
  • Blend: Straight Bourbon, American Single Malt, and American Light Whiskey
  • Bourbon: 72% Corn, 15% Rye, 13% Malted Barley; Non Chill-Filtered; Finished with French Oak Staves
  • Age: 6
  • Proof: 101
  • MSRP: 79.99
  • Released: June 2025
  • Other: Pair with medium-bodied cigars
  • Purchased: 06/13/25 for $192.27 at High Spirits Liquor Store, Evansville IN
  • Original YouTube Review:  

✴️ W.H. McBrayer 2025 Release, Batch 5

  • Classification: Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
  • Company: McBrayer Legacy Spirits
  • Distillery: Undisclosed
  • Mash Bill: 88.4% Bloody Butcher Corn, 5.8% Heritage Rye, 5.8% Malted Barley
  • Age: NAS; blend of 15 barrels – 8 are 6.5 years old and 7 are 5.5 years old
  • Proof: 106.8
  • MSRP: $100
  • Other: Small Batch (15 hand-selected barrels), Non-Chill Filtered
  • Released: May 10, 2025
  • Purchased: 05/10/25 for $100 at McBrayer Legacy Spirits
  • Original YouTube Review:  

❌YOUR BOURBON JOURNEY DOES NOT SELL ALCOHOL❌

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

Touring Evan Williams & A Surprise 12-Year Bourbon! 

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Bourbon Trail Tales & Tastes Episode 30 – Evan Williams Bourbon Experience

Prepare to be transported back to the heart of Bourbon Country! In this thrilling video, we’re uncorking a tale that’s as rich and complex as the bourbon we love. Join us as we journey to the legendary Evan Williams Bourbon Experience in Louisville, Kentucky!

While it kicked off our unofficial bourbon journey, it later became the 12th coveted stamp in our KBT passport – a testament to its undeniable allure! Seriously, if we’re in Louisville, you can bet we’re making a pilgrimage to Whiskey Row and Evan Williams.

But the excitement doesn’t stop there! After reliving those cherished memories, we’re diving deep into an exclusive tasting you won’t want to miss. Get ready to explore the tantalizing notes of a truly special bottle we acquired: the Evan Williams Red Label (Japan). What extraordinary flavors lie within this unique pour? Will it be a sweet symphony or a spicy surprise?

Click play ▶️ now to join the adventure and discover the secrets of Evan Williams with us!

Ready to explore the world of whiskey with us? Join the YBJ family!

👍 Like this video if you’re excited for the Kentucky Bourbon Trail! 

💬 Comment your thoughts on Evan Williams Bourbon Experience or this tasting! 

➡️ Share with fellow whiskey lovers! 

🔔 Subscribe to Your Bourbon Journey and hit the bell 🔔 for weekly bourbon adventures you won’t want to miss!

********

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.

#bourbonreview  #KentuckyBourbonTrail #evanwilliams

Evan Williams

❌YOUR BOURBON JOURNEY DOES NOT SELL ALCOHOL❌

ABOUT THE BOTTLE REVIEWED

✴️ Evan Williams Red Label (Japan)

  • Classification: Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
  • Company: Old Evan Williams Distillery (Heaven Hill)
  • Distillery: Heaven Hill
  • Mash Bill: 78% Corn, 12% Malted Barley, 10% Rye
  • Age: 12 Years
  • Proof: 101
  • MSRP: $149.99
  • Other: Made for the Japanese market; distillery exclusive in Louisville.
  • Purchased: date for $149.99 at Evan Williams Bourbon Experience in Louisville, KY

❌YOUR BOURBON JOURNEY DOES NOT SELL ALCOHOL❌

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

Epic Bourbon: Neeley’s Four Grain BIB + Bonus

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Get ready for a bourbon adventure! 🥃 We’re cracking open two exceptional bottles from our recent trip to Neeley’s Family Distillery in Sparta, Kentucky.

Join us as we dive deep into the highly anticipated Neeley Bottled in Bond Four Grain. We trekked all the way to the distillery just for this, and trust us, it was worth it!

But that’s not all! As a special bonus, we’re also doing a detailed tasting of the Neeley Single Barrel Wheated Bourbon, a private barrel selection by ABV Barrel Shop. You won’t want to miss our thoughts on this unique pour.

We sampled a ton of amazing spirits at Neeley’s, including Old Jett finished in Port Wine and Hidden Barn Organic Single Barrel, and we’ll share a bit about those too.

So grab your favorite glass, settle in, and let’s explore these incredible bourbons together! Click play ▶️ NOW!

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! 

#bourbonreview #NeeleyFamilyDistillery #bottledinbond 

Neeley Family Distillery

❌YOUR BOURBON JOURNEY DOES NOT SELL ALCOHOL❌

✴️ Neeley Bottled in Bond Four Grain

  • Classification: Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
  • Distillery: Neeley Family Distillery
  • Mash Bill: 63% corn, 17% Oats, 8% Wheat and 12% Malt
  • Notes: Jug Yeast A-1, Sweet Mash, Copper Pot Still, Non-Chill Filtered, Limestone Well Water, Cypress Fermented, Barrel Char 2, Batch Size 7
  • Age: 4 Years
  • Proof: 100
  • MSRP: $79.99
  • Released: Spring 2025
  • Made with no enzymes, blended by Rebekah Neeley
  • Purchased: 07/11/25 for $79.99 at Neely Family Distillery in Sparta, KY

✴️ Neeley Single Barrel Wheated Bourbon: Private Barrel Selected by ABV Barrel Shop

  • Classification: Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
  • Distillery: Neeley Family Distillery
  • Mash Bill: 66% corn, 25% Wheat and 9% Malt
  • Notes: Jug Yeast A-1, Sweet Mash, Copper Pot Still, Non-Chill Filtered, Limestone Well Water, Cypress Fermented, Barrel Char 2, Barrel No 126
  • Age: 6 Years
  • Proof: 105.1
  • MSRP: $79.99
  • Released: Spring 2025
  • Purchased: 07/11/25 for $79.99 at Neely Family Distillery in Sparta, KY

❌YOUR BOURBON JOURNEY DOES NOT SELL ALCOHOL❌

🚨REMEMBER TO ALWAYS DRINK RESPONSIBLY🚨

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

2XO Vinyl Blend Review: A Bourbon Masterpiece? 

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Ready to drop the needle on an incredible bourbon experience? 🥃 Dive into our latest review of 2XO Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey’s “The Vinyl Blend”! This isn’t just whiskey; it’s a symphony for your senses, the sixth limited-time small batch blend in 2XO’s coveted Icon Series.

Crafted by renowned American whiskey blender Dixon Dedman, “The Vinyl Blend” is a soulful homage to classic vinyl. As Dixon himself says, “Classic vinyl was how we listened to music growing up… the simple ritual of enjoying an album with a neat pour of whiskey is now one of my favorite ways to relax.” We couldn’t agree more!

In this video, we uncork this one-of-a-kind bourbon, exploring its unique flavor profile, exquisite aroma, and smooth finish. Is it the perfect companion for your next record-spinning session? We’ll find out!

Join us as we taste, analyze, and celebrate “The Vinyl Blend” – a bourbon that promises to be a hit with 2XO fans and collectors alike.

👉 Watch now to discover if this small batch bourbon deserves a spot in your collection! 

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! 🥃

#bourbonreview #2XOWhiskey #TheVinylBlend 

❌YOUR BOURBON JOURNEY DOES NOT SELL ALCOHOL❌

✴️ 2XO The Vinyl Blend

  • Classification: Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
  • Company: Prestige Beverage Group
  • Distillery: Undisclosed
  • Mash Bill: 
    • The Vinyl Blend consists of two proprietary mash bills—a high-rye (35%) bourbon mash bill and a moderate-rye (18%) bourbon mash bill.
    • Dixon double barrels the high-rye (35%) bourbon mash bill into new #4 charred oak barrels for 9-12 months.
    • The double barreled char #4 high-rye mash bill comprises 40% of The Vinyl Blend, with the remaining 60% split evenly between the original high-rye and moderate-rye bourbon mash bill. 
  • Age: NAS
  • Proof: 104
  • MSRP: $99.99
  • Released: April 2025
  • Purchased: 06/07/25 for $101.99 at Varsity Liquors in Evansville IN

❌YOUR BOURBON JOURNEY DOES NOT SELL ALCOHOL❌

🚨REMEMBER TO ALWAYS DRINK RESPONSIBLY🚨

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

Best Whiskeys of 2025 (So Far!): Our Top Picks!

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Wow, 2025 has been an absolute blockbuster year for whiskey, bringing some truly unforgettable bottles to our glasses! In this can’t-miss video, we’re uncorking our BEST WHISKEYS of 2025 so far and trust us, you’re in for some surprises!

Join us as we take a thrilling journey through each month, revisiting our highly anticipated Whiskey of the Month winners and their fierce contenders. But that’s just the warm-up! We’re also thrilled to reveal the very first two Whiskey of the Quarter champions and give you an exclusive peek at the current Whiskey of the Year seeding results. The competition is heating up, and you’ll want to see who’s leading the pack!

And here’s a twist: We’re also sharing an absolutely mind-blowing release that, for special reasons, we decided to exclude from this intense competition. You won’t believe what it is and why it didn’t make the cut for our official rankings!

Ready to discover the must-have whiskeys of 2025? Click that play button now and find out if your favorites made our prestigious list!

What are your favorite whiskeys of 2025 so far? Did your top picks make our list, or do you have a dark horse contender we need to know about? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

Passionate about bourbon and exceptional whiskey? Don’t miss out on another drop! Hit that LIKE 👍 button and SUBSCRIBE 🔔 to our channel so you never miss our deep dives into the most exciting new releases and hidden gems. Share this video with your bourbon buddies and let’s celebrate the art of fine spirits together! Cheers to rare finds and unforgettable pours! 🥂

#WhiskeyOfTheMonth  #WhiskeyOfTheQuarter #WhiskeyOfTheYear 

1st Quarter WOTQ Video

2nd Quarter WOTQ Video

❌YOUR BOURBON JOURNEY DOES NOT SELL ALCOHOL❌

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

Our First Tour: The Bard Distillery Experience!

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Bourbon Trail Tales & Tastes Episode E28 – The Bard Distillery

Get ready for an adventure down the Kentucky Bourbon Trail as we revisit a truly special stop! In this thrilling episode, we’re taking you back to our very first visit to The Bard Distillery in Graham, Kentucky. This wasn’t just another distillery; it was our 33rd distillery exploration and snagged us our 25th coveted stamp in our Kentucky Bourbon Trail Book – a massive milestone on our bourbon journey!

Join us as we relive every unforgettable moment from our initial tour of The Bard Distillery. But the excitement doesn’t stop there! We’ll then uncork a bottle of their exclusive Cinder & Smoke Founder’s Select for an in-depth tasting. What hidden notes and unique flavors await us in this one-of-a-kind pour? You’ll have to watch to find out!

Click play ▶️ now to join the adventure and discover the magic of The Bard Distillery!

Ready to dive deeper into the world of whiskey with us? Become part of the YBJ family!

  • 👍 Like this video if you’re as passionate about the Kentucky Bourbon Trail as we are!
  • 💬 Comment below with your thoughts on The Bard Distillery or what flavors you’d expect from the Cinder & Smoke Founder’s Select!
  • ➡️ Share this video with every whiskey enthusiast you know!
  • 🔔 Subscribe to Your Bourbon Journey and hit that notification bell 🔔 so you never miss our weekly bourbon adventures!

Historical Roots and Family Legacy

The Bard Distillery is deeply rooted in history, both locally and within Kentucky’s bourbon heritage. Housed in a beautifully renovated 1920s-era school building in Graham, the distillery occupies a site where co-founder Tom Bard and three generations of his family attended school. This transformation of a nearly century-old community centerpiece into a modern craft distillery breathes new life into local history.

Further connecting the distillery to the heart of Kentucky’s bourbon industry, Tom Bard is the 4th great-grandson of William Bard, co-founder of Bardstown, the “Bourbon Capital of the World®.” The Bard family has continuously resided on their Muhlenberg County land for nearly 200 years, establishing a direct lineage to the state’s renowned distilling origins.

Beyond the distillery, the family’s diverse talents extend to the racing world, with Kim Bard, a former NASCAR driver, who now races monster trucks in Australia as the “Monster Truck Driver of MisMayhem.”

About this Series

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.

#bourbonreview  #KentuckyBourbonTrail #TheBard 

The Bard Distillery

❌YOUR BOURBON JOURNEY DOES NOT SELL ALCOHOL❌

ABOUT THE BOTTLE REVIEWED

✴️ Cinder & Smoke Founder’s Select

  • Classification: Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
  • Distillery: Undisclosed
  • Blended & Bottled: The Bard Distillery
  • Mash Bill: Corn, Rye, Malted Barley (undisclosed percentages)
  • Age: NAS, at least 4 years
  • Proof: 100
  • MSRP: $100
  • Batch: IV 013/018; each batch is only 3 barrels
  • Purchased: 02/18/23 for $100 at The Bard Distillery

❌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.

Judge Bourbon is BACK! Tasting & Where to Buy!

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Prepare yourselves, bourbon enthusiasts! 🤯 After what has felt like an eternity, the legend returns to render its verdict: W.H. McBrayer “The Judge” is BACK! This isn’t just another bourbon; it’s a meticulously crafted masterpiece, a testament to time and unparalleled dedication.

We’re talking about a symphony of flavor, meticulously blended from 15 hand-selected barrels. Eight of these precious barrels have been patiently aged for a rich 6.5 years, developing deep, complex notes. Complementing them are seven vibrant barrels, matured for a lively 5.5 years, adding a bright, intricate layer to the profile.

This isn’t some watered-down spirit; it’s proudly non-chill filtered and bottled at a captivating 108.6 proof, ensuring every drop delivers an unadulterated, robust experience. Get ready for a sensory journey as we guide you through each and every tasting note, from the initial aromatic embrace to the lingering, satisfying finish.

In this video, we’ll dive deep into 

  • Our unfiltered tasting notes: Discover the notes that make “The Judge” truly exceptional.
  • Our expert recommendation: Is this the must-have bourbon of the year? We’ll tell you if it’s worth the hype and for whom!
  • How to get your hands on a bottle: Snag one before they sell out!

Don’t just hear about it, experience it! Click play ▶️ now for all the details and to witness our first impressions of this highly anticipated release.

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! Join us and raise a glass to “The Judge”! 🥂🥃

#bourbon #McBrayerLegacySpirits #TheJudge

❌YOUR BOURBON JOURNEY DOES NOT SELL ALCOHOL❌

✴️ W.H. McBrayer “The Judge” Batch 5

  • Classification: Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
  • Company: McBrayer Legacy Spirits
  • Distillery: Undisclosed
  • Historic Mash Bill: 88.4% Bloody Butcher Corn, 5.8% Heirloom Rye, 5.8% Malted Barley
  • Age: NAS; blend of 15 barrels – 8 are 6.5 years old and 7 are 5.5 years old
  • Other: Small Batch, Non-Chill Filtered
  • Proof: 108.6
  • MSRP: $100
  • Check out McBrayer Legacy Spirits
    • Shipping to all but 9 states
    • Or – Pick up at Revival Vintage Bottle Shop in Covington, KY

Note: Wayne McBrayer is not affiliated with McBrayer Legacy Spirits. They are cousins, friends, and great people. We support their bourbon journey and respect what they are doing to resurrect a 175-year-old brand that is part of their family lineage.

❌YOUR BOURBON JOURNEY DOES NOT SELL ALCOHOL❌

Read our detailed tasting notes and comparisons of W.H. McBrayer Batches 1-4 here: 

June 2024 W.H. McBrayer Batch 4 Tasting

Watch our May 2025 PREVIEW Video here:  

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

Blind Tasting: Who Wins Whiskey of the Quarter!

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Alright, buckle up, whiskey lovers! 🥃 Get ready for a showdown of EPIC proportions! 🔥 In this blind tasting adventure, we’re putting three incredible contenders to the ultimate test to crown the UNDISPUTED CHAMPION 🏆 of our Second Quarter 2025! 🎉

Prepare your senses as we dive deep into the aromatic world 👃 and tantalizing flavors 😋 of:

🐅Orphan Barrel Fanged Pursuit Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey 

🌟Star Hill Farm American Wheat Whisky

🦃Wild Turkey 101 8-Year Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey

No labels, no biases – just pure, unadulterated whiskey appreciation! 👀 Join us as we meticulously nose, sip, and savor each dram, dissecting the nose 👃, the dance on the palate 👅, the lingering finish ✨, and that all-important je ne sais quoi. 🤔

Will the barrel proof powerhouse 💪 dominate? Will the aged elegance 👑 steal the show? Or will a unique finish or single barrel charm ✨ take the crown? We’re ranking them from 3rd place🥉 to the coveted 1st place spot🥇, and the suspense is BUILDING! 🤩 The results will be used for seeding in our Whiskey of the Year competition! 🏆

🎉 Grab your own glass 🥃 (of whatever you fancy! 😉), settle in 🛋️, and experience the thrill of the reveal with us. Get ready for some serious whiskey talk 🗣️, maybe a few surprises 😮, and definitely a good time! 😄 Cheers to an unforgettable evening of delicious discovery!

Hit play ▶️ and join the tasting party!

Don’t forget to subscribe! 👍 and let us know in the comments below 👇 which whiskey YOU thought would win! 🤔💬

#BlindWhiskeyTasting #bourbonreview #WhiskeyOfTheQuarter 

❌YOUR BOURBON JOURNEY DOES NOT SELL ALCOHOL❌

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

✴️ Orphan Barrel Fanged Pursuit

  • Classification: Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
  • Company: Diageo
  • Distillery: Sourced from an undisclosed Kentucky
  • Mash Bill: 68-74% Corn, 18-22% Rye, 8-10% Malted Barley
  • Age: 17 Years
  • Proof: 92
  • MSRP: $200
  • Released: February 2025
  • Purchased: 03/13/25 for $200.00 at Archie & Clyde’s Restaurant Newburgh Indiana

Original YouTube Review: 

✴️ Star Hill Farm Whisky 2025

  • Classification: American Wheat Whisky
  • Company: Star Hill Farm
  • Distillery: Maker’s Mark 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:

✴️ Wild Turkey 101 8 Year

  • Classification: Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
  • Company: Campari Group
  • Distillery: Wild Turkey Distillery
  • Mash Bill: 75% Corn, 13% Rye, 12% Malted Barley
  • Age: 8 Year minimum
  • Proof: 101
  • MSRP: $45
  • Released: April 2025
  • Purchased: 04/25/25 for $42.99 at Beverage Barn in Henderson, KY

Original YouTube Review:

❌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.

First Taste: Booker’s “By the Pond” Batch!

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Uncorking the Legend: Booker’s “By the Pond” Batch Revealed! 🥃

We snagged the highly anticipated Booker’s 2025-02 “By the Pond” Batch from our go-to spot, Archie & Clyde’s in Newburgh, Indiana, and trust us, we couldn’t wait to crack it open! As huge Booker’s fans, every new release is an event. What’s the story behind it? How old is it? What’s the proof? And the biggest question of all: will we love it as much as the others?

Get ready for an in-depth exploration as we dive into every detail of this limited-release bourbon! From its captivating color and mesmerizing viscosity to its intriguing aromas and, finally, that first glorious taste—we’re leaving no stone unturned. Will this rare pour live up to the hype?

Join us for our completely unfiltered tasting notes and discover our honest thoughts. Click play ▶️ NOW to find out if “By the Pond” lives up to the legendary Booker’s name!

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As Fred Noe shared in the batch release notes, the second U.S. release in the Booker’s 2025 Collection is Booker’s Batch 2025-02 “By the Pond,” a heartfelt tribute to Booker Noe’s beloved backyard pond. This special place was more than just a pond; it was a dream brought to life by Booker, who, with the help of his son Fred, built it from scratch to raise fresh catfish and bluegill for family suppers. Despite initial challenges, like a leaky liner and a fifty-foot maple tree that shed its leaves, Booker’s determination transformed it into a tranquil oasis. This cherished spot became a profound sanctuary where Booker found peace and spent countless hours reflecting, often with his grandson Freddie by his side, soaking in the warm Kentucky days. It was a place he felt truly at ease, and this batch is a reminder to find your own slice of happiness, wherever it may be.

#bourbonreview #JimBeam #bookers 

Archie & Clyde’s in Newburgh Indiana: https://www.archieandclydes.com/ 

❌YOUR BOURBON JOURNEY DOES NOT SELL ALCOHOL❌

✴️ Booker’s 2025-02 “By the Pond” Batch

  • Classification: Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
  • Company: Beam Suntory
  • Distillery: Jim Beam Distillery
  • Mash Bill: 77% Corn, 13% Rye, 10% Malted Barley
  • Age: 7 years, 1 month, and 20 days
  • Proof: 126.5
  • Blend: This particular batch is a complex blend of barrels from various locations within 8 different warehouses. The largest percentage (29%) came from the sixth floor of warehouse G at Waterfill, a seven-story warehouse.
  • MSRP: $100
  • Released: June 2025
  • Purchased: 07/03/25 for $110 at Archie & Clyde’s Restaurant in Newburgh IN

❌YOUR BOURBON JOURNEY DOES NOT SELL ALCOHOL❌

🚨REMEMBER TO ALWAYS DRINK RESPONSIBLY🚨

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

Dusty Barn Distillery: An Indiana Bourbon Discovery!

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Bourbon Trail Tales & Tastes Episode 27: Dusty Barn Distillery

Get ready to journey back with us as we relive our unforgettable first visit to Dusty Barn Distillery! From the rustic charm of their grounds to the passion poured into every barrel, we’re taking you behind the scenes of what makes this hidden gem so special.

But that’s not all! The main event kicks off with a live, unscripted tasting of a truly unique bottle we snagged during our visit: Doc’s Single Barrel Bourbon Whiskey. What rare and delightful notes will we uncover in this one-of-a-kind pour? Will it be a smoky whisper, a sweet serenade, or something entirely unexpected? 

Click play ▶️ now to find out!

Join the YBJ Family & Keep the Bourbon Journey Going!

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What’s your favorite hidden gem on the Bourbon Trail? Let us know in the comments!

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.

#bourbontrail #IndianaDistillery #DustyBarnDistillery 

Dusty Barn Distillery

❌YOUR BOURBON JOURNEY DOES NOT SELL ALCOHOL❌

ABOUT THE BOTTLE REVIEWED

✴️ Doc’s Single Barrel Bourbon Whiskey

  • Classification: Bourbon Whiskey
  • Distillery: Dusty Barn Distillery
  • Mash Bill: 70% Corn, Rye, Malted Barley
  • Age: 18 Months
  • Proof: 106.8
  • Other: Batch WSBI, Single Barrel, Cask Strength
  • Purchased: 12/31/22 for $110 at Dusty Barn Distillery

❌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.