Join us for a once-in-a-lifetime vintage bourbon tasting experience! We’ve managed to get our hands on a truly rare piece of whiskey history: a bottle of Old Forester 1955 Bottled in Bond. 🥃
This isn’t just a bourbon; it’s a time capsule. We’ll be uncorking this vintage whiskey to explore its unique tasting notes, from the aroma to the long, lingering finish. What secrets does this mid-century rare bourbon hold? 🤫
But the journey doesn’t end there! To truly understand the evolution of Old Forester, we’ll be doing a bourbon comparison of the vintage 1955 with the brand’s current release, the Old Forester 1897 Bottled in Bond. This side-by-side tasting reveals the past and present of one of America’s most beloved bourbons.
Don’t miss this historic pour – hit play now! ▶️
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Brad Bonds opening the bottle at Revival Vintage Spirits
NOTE: The spirits in this review were purchased by us. We were not compensated by the spirit producer or retailer for this review. This is simply our opinion based on what we tasted on this day. Please drink responsibly.
The Oldest Distillery West of the Mississippi?! | Holladay Distillery Ancient Cave Wave Stave 2025 Review
We’re taking you on a journey to the heart of American distilling history! Join us as we visit Holladay Distillery in Weston, Missouri—the oldest continuously operating distillery west of the Mississippi River. This landmark, founded in 1856 by the legendary “Stagecoach King” Ben Holladay, has a rich legacy of crafting Real Missouri Bourbon.
In this video, we’re unboxing a truly unique and hard-to-find bottle: the Holladay Ancient Cave Wave Stave 2025. This distillery-exclusive, 7-year-old bourbon is finished in a special “Wave Stave” barrel within the distillery’s historic “Ancient Cave.” Does this one-of-a-kind aging process create a whiskey worth the hype? Watch our full review to find out!
So grab your favorite glass, settle in, and let’s explore this incredible bourbon together! Click play ▶️ NOW!
We highly recommend that you add Holladay Distillery in Weston MO to Your Bourbon Journey!
What’s your favorite state for bourbon outside of Kentucky? Let us know in the comments below! 👇
Are you a true bourbon fanatic, always on the hunt for the next exceptional pour? Then smash that like button 👍 to show your appreciation for fine whiskey! Hit subscribe 🔔 so you never miss our reviews of rare and remarkable spirits, and share this video ➡️ with your fellow whiskey lovers. Let’s build a community of enthusiasts who appreciate the art of exceptional bourbon!
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.
Step into the legacy! 🥃 Our latest whiskey review dives deep into the highly anticipated Jim Beam Lineage Batch #2, a truly special release from the iconic Kentucky distillery. This limited-edition, 15-year-old Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey is more than just a drink; it’s a piece of history crafted by seventh and eighth-generation Master Distillers, Fred and Freddie Noe.
Join us as we explore this exclusive father-son collaboration and a milestone for the Jim Beam brand. We’ll taste the rich flavors of this hand-selected bourbon, aged in charred white oak barrels and bottled at a robust 111 proof. What does 15 years of aging do for that signature Jim Beam mouthfeel? We’re about to find out!
Lineage Batch #2 is a collector’s dream, a rare bourbon that marks Freddie Noe’s coming-of-age in the whiskey world with his name on the label for the first time. Available only at The James B. Beam Distilling Co. campus, this is a rare opportunity for bourbon enthusiasts to own a piece of the Beam family legacy.
Don’t miss our full tasting notes, our final rating, and our thoughts on whether this “merging of heritage and innovation” is worth the journey to Clermont, Kentucky.
So grab your favorite glass, settle in, and let’s explore this incredible bourbon together! Click play ▶️ NOW!
👇 What’s your favorite release by Jim Beam bourbon? Let us know in the comments below! 👇
Are you a true bourbon fanatic, always on the hunt for the next exceptional pour? Then smash that like button 👍 to show your appreciation for fine whiskey! Hit subscribe 🔔 so you never miss our reviews of rare and remarkable spirits, and share this video ➡️ with your fellow whiskey lovers. Let’s build a community of enthusiasts who appreciate the art of exceptional bourbon!
#bourbonreview #JimBeam #lineagebourbon
❌YOUR BOURBON JOURNEY DOES NOT SELL ALCOHOL❌
✴️ Jim Beam Lineage Batch 2
Classification: Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
Company: Suntory Global Spirits
Distillery: Booker Noe Plant
Mash Bill: 77% corn, 13% rye, and 10% malted barley
Age: 15-year-old (blend of 15 and 20-year-old bourbons)
Proof: 111
MSRP: $250 (700 ml)
Released: 07/18/25
Other: Crafted in collaboration by Fred & Freddie Noe
Purchased: 07/18/25 for $250 at the Jim Beam Distillery
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 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! 🍀
🔥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
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.
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!
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💬 Comment your thoughts on Evan Williams Bourbon Experience or this tasting!
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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 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.
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!
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.
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
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.
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! 🥂
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.
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!
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👍 Like this video if you’re as passionate about the Kentucky Bourbon Trail as we are!
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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.
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.
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”! 🥂🥃
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:
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.
Your Bourbon Journey 