Rye Whiskey

Wilderness Trail Tour & Rye 7 Year BIB Review

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Wilderness Trail 7-Year Bottled-in-Bond Rye Whiskey Review (Kentucky Bourbon Trail Stop)

Wayne and Rebecca are taking you back to their exclusive visit to Wilderness Trail Distillery (Distillery #47), an official stop on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail (KBT) in Danville, KY and our 39th stamp in our passport book.

This video chronicles our full distillery tour, where we learned about the unique, science-driven operation led by PhD founders Dr. Pat Heist and Shane Baker. After the tour and meeting the distillery’s beloved cat, Cooper, we finally taste a highly sought-after, RARE 7-Year Small Batch Rye that was bottled-in-bond.

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

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ABOUT THE BOTTLE REVIEWED

✴️ Wilderness Trail Small Batch Rye Whiskey

  • Classification: Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey
  • Distillery: Wilderness Trail
  • Mash Bill: 56% Rye, 33% Corn, 11% Malted Barley
  • Age: 7 Years
  • Proof: 100 (Bottled in Bond)
  • Released: 2023 as a Gift Shop Only
  • Other: Approximately 15 barrels
  • Purchased: 05/20/53 for $75 at the Wilderness Trail Distillery

❌YOUR BOURBON JOURNEY DOES NOT SELL ALCOHOL❌

This Distillery Only 7-Year Rye was aged for a full seven years on the property. We explore whether the low-rye mash bill (56% Rye) delivers on its promise.

Tasting Notes

On the nose, expect floral notes, sweet honey, hints of chocolate, and herbal mint. The palate is beautifully balanced with rich caramel, baking spice, and a touch of lemon peel. The finish is long, warm, and ends with a unique peppermint patty coolness.

  • Mash Bill: 56% Rye, 33% Corn, 11% Malted Barley
  • Proof: 100 (Bottled-in-Bond)
  • Release: 2023 Distillery Only

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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.

#WildernessTrail #RyeWhiskey #bottledinbond #KentuckyBourbonTrail #7YearRye #WhiskeyReview #SmallBatch #SweetMash #DistilleryTour #RareWhiskey #LowRyeMash #WildernessTrailDistillery #bourbon #CooperTheCat #WhiskeyTasting

Top Secret Whiskeys: A Blind Barrels Exclusive!

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Blind Barrels XV “Inception”

Get ready for a thrilling taste adventure 🚀 into the shadowy world of Blind Barrels! 🕵️‍♂️ In this episode, we’re plunging headfirst into the unknown, blind tasting 👀 and dissecting FOUR ENIGMATIC MYSTERY WHISKEYS! 🥃🥃🥃🥃 Can our palates decipher their secrets? 🤔

Join us as we become whiskey detectives 🔎, meticulously sniffing👃, swirling 🔄, and savoring 😋 each anonymous dram. We’ll delve deep into their intriguing flavor profiles and captivating aromas ✨, piecing together the clues 🧩 to uncover what makes each one truly unique.

The anticipation is building! ⏳ Will we correctly identify their origins? 🌍 Which hidden gem 💎 will steal our hearts (and our taste buds 👅)? And ultimately… which mysterious whiskey will rise above the rest and claim the coveted top spot 🏆 in our ranking?

Prepare for unexpected twists 😲, surprising revelations 🎉, and maybe even a few gasps of delight! 😮 You might just discover your next favorite pour lurking within these blind barrels. Hit play ▶️ now and join the mystery! 😉

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

To learn more about a Subscription to Blind Barrels, this is our Affiliate Link (commissions can be earned): Blind Barrels Subscription

#blindtasting  #bourbontasting  #whiskeytasting 

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NOTE: We were not compensated by the spirit producers or Blind Barrels for this review. This is simply our opinion based on what we tasted on this day. Please drink responsibly.

Pendergast & Tom’s Town: KC’s Best Whiskeys?

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Welcome to the grand finale of our Kansas City Whiskey series! In this final installment, we’re taking a deep dive into the spirited and rebellious history of Tom’s Town Distilling Co.

Uncovering Kansas City’s Prohibition-Era Past Named after the infamous political boss Tom Pendergast, this distillery is a tribute to the “Paris of the Plains” and the city’s defiant history. We’ll explore how Tom’s Town, founded in 2015 by David Epstein and Steve Revare, has revitalized the Crossroads Arts District by embracing the complex and compelling story of “Boss Tom.”

Tasting Flight: A Tom’s Town Whiskey Review Get ready for an in-depth tasting and review of four incredible spirits from Tom’s Town Distilling:

🥃 Pendergast’s Royal Gold Whiskey: This is not your average bourbon! Finished in 14-year-old ruby port casks, this 90-proof bourbon delivers rich aromas of caramelized sugar, oak, and stone fruits. We’ll taste if it lives up to the legend of the original “Royal Gold” brand that Pendergast himself sold to a thirsty public.

🥃 Limited Release Finished Bourbon: A true gem! This 5-year-old, 94-proof Straight Bourbon Whiskey is finished in Pinot Noir casks from Ayres, promising a unique and delicious flavor profile.

🥃 Tom’s Town Straight Rye Whiskey: Distilled in Kansas City from locally sourced grains and aged for at least 4 years, this Straight Rye is Bottled in Bond at 100 proof. With a robust and earthy profile, notes of caramel, toasted bread, spice, and dark chocolate, this is a must-try for any rye whiskey fan.

🥃 The Machine Series Half Baked: Prepare for the unexpected! Distilled from Lagunitas Lagunator beer and aged in white oak barrels, this is a truly daring and unique whiskey. We’ll explore its notes of bright grapefruit, saltwater taffy, and baking spices, and see if this adventurous spirit lives up to the hype.

Click play ▶️ NOW!

Join the Conversation! Have you tried any of these Tom’s Town whiskeys? What did you think? Let us know in the comments below! 👇

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  • Let’s build a community of enthusiasts who appreciate the art of exceptional bourbon! 

#bourbonreview #KansasCityWhiskey #TomsTown 

Learn more about Tom’s Town: https://www.toms-town.com/

❌YOUR BOURBON JOURNEY DOES NOT SELL ALCOHOL❌

✴️ Pendergast’s Royal Gold Whiskey

  • Classification: Bourbon Whiskey
  • Distillery: Tom’s Town Distilling
  • Mash Bill: Undisclosed
  • Age: NAS
  • Proof: 90
  • Other: Finished in 14-year-old ruby port casks
  • Purchased: 07/26/25 for $52.99 at Tom’s Town Distilling

✴️ Limited Release Finished Bourbon

  • Classification: Straight Bourbon Whiskey
  • Distillery: Tom’s Town Distilling
  • Mash Bill: Undisclosed
  • Age: 5 years
  • Proof: 94
  • Other: Finished in Pinot Noir from Ayres
  • Purchased: 07/26/25 for $65.00 at Tom’s Town Distilling

✴️ Tom’s Town Straight Rye Whiskey

  • Classification: Straight Rye Whiskey Bottled in Bond
  • Distillery: Tom’s Town Distilling
  • Mash Bill: Undisclosed
  • Age: At least 4 years
  • Proof: 100
  • Purchased: 07/26/25 for $52.99 at Tom’s Town Distilling

✴️ The Machine Series Half Baked

  • Distillery: Tom’s Town Distilling
  • Mash Bill: Distilled from Lagunitas Lagunator beer (grains & hops)
  • Age: NAS
  • Proof: 94
  • Purchased: 07/26/25 for $30.00 (375 ml) at Tom’s Town Distilling


❌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.

Old Forester’s FIRST Bonded Rye: Is it Worth It?

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Prepare to uncork a momentous occasion with us as we dive into the latest, highly anticipated release from the esteemed Old Forester 117 Series: the Bottled in Bond Rye Whiskey! This isn’t just another bottle; it’s a historic milestone, marking Old Forester’s very first foray into crafting a Bottled in Bond Rye.

Join us as we meticulously explore every captivating facet of this extraordinary expression. We’ll break down its unique mashbill – a bold 65% Rye, 20% Malted Barley, and 15% Corn – and uncover the secrets it holds. What complex aromas will tantalize our senses, foreshadowing the journey ahead? Will its taste live up to the legendary Old Forester name and truly “wow” our palates with its depth and character?

Most importantly, after our comprehensive review, we’ll answer the burning question you’re all waiting for: Is this Old Forester 117 Series Bottled in Bond Rye a definite BUY, a regrettable PASS, or an essential BACKUP for your collection?

Join us for completely unfiltered tasting notes as we dive deep into this limited release pour. Will it live up to the hype of its rarity? Click play ▶️ NOW to find out our honest thoughts!

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#ryewhiskeyreview  #LimitedRelease, #OldForester117SeriesRye

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✴️ Old Forester 117 Series: Bottled-in-Bond Rye

  • Classification: Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey
  • Company: Brown Forman
  • Distillery: Old Forester Distillery
  • Mash Bill: 65% Rye, 20% Malted Barley, 15% Corn
  • Distilled: Spring 2015
  • Age: 10 Years
  • Proof: 100
  • MSRP: $64.99
  • Released: March 2025
  • Other: Bottled in Bond, 375ml Bottle
  • Purchased: 06/27/25 for $74.99 at Beverage Barn in Henderson, 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.

Top Secret Whiskeys: A Blind Barrels Exclusive!

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Blind Barrels XIV “The Prestige”

Get ready for a thrilling taste adventure 🚀 into the shadowy world of Blind Barrels! 🕵️‍♂️ In this episode, we’re plunging headfirst into the unknown, blind tasting 👀 and dissecting FOUR ENIGMATIC MYSTERY WHISKEYS! 🥃🥃🥃🥃 Can our palates decipher their secrets? 🤔

Join us as we become whiskey detectives 🔎, meticulously sniffing👃, swirling 🔄, and savoring 😋 each anonymous dram. We’ll delve deep into their intriguing flavor profiles and captivating aromas ✨, piecing together the clues 🧩 to uncover what makes each one truly unique.

The anticipation is building! ⏳ Will we correctly identify their origins? 🌍 Which hidden gem 💎 will steal our hearts (and our taste buds 👅)? And ultimately… which mysterious whiskey will rise above the rest and claim the coveted top spot 🏆 in our ranking?

Prepare for unexpected twists 😲, surprising revelations 🎉, and maybe even a few gasps of delight! 😮 You might just discover your next favorite pour lurking within these blind barrels. Hit play ▶️ now and join the mystery! 😉


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

To learn more about a Subscription to Blind Barrels, this is our Affiliate Link (commissions can be earned) ➡️ Click Here

#blindtasting  #bourbontasting  #whiskeytasting 

🚨REMEMBER TO ALWAYS DRINK RESPONSIBLY🚨

✅ Please SUBSCRIBE and hit the LIKE button!

❓Questions❓ YourBourbonJourney@gmail.com

NOTE: We were not compensated by the spirit producers or Blind Barrels for this review. This is simply our opinion based on what we tasted on this day. Please drink responsibly.

Texas Whiskey Battle: Still Austin Cask Strength Review

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Welcome back, whiskey enthusiasts! Today, we’re taking a deep dive into the heart of Texas with two exceptional expressions from Still Austin Whiskey Co. Prepare your palates as we uncork, swirl, and savor their highly anticipated Cask Strength Bourbon and the equally intriguing Cask Strength Rye Whiskey, both bottled at an impressive 116 proof.

Join us as we explore the nuanced aromas, complex flavors, and distinct finishes of these powerhouse spirits. We’ll be sharing our candid impressions, revealing which one stole our hearts (and our palates!), and ultimately helping you decide if these are the next must-have bottles for your collection.

Curious about the best of Texas whiskey? Watch now to get our full breakdown! 

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

#bourbon #stillaustinwhiskey #caskstrengthwhiskey 

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✴️ Still Austin Cask Strength Bourbon

  • Classification: Straight Bourbon
  • Distillery: Still Austin Whiskey Co.
  • Mash Bill: 70% Non-GMO White Corn, 25% Elbon Rye, 5% Wildfire Malted Barley
  • Age: At least 2 years
  • Proof: 116
  • Purchased: 02/13/25 for $60.00 online via Still Austin

✴️ Still Austin Cask Strength Rye Whiskey

  • Classification: Straight Rye
  • Distillery: Still Austin Whiskey Co.
  • Mash Bill: 100% Rye
  • Age: At least 2 years
  • Proof: 116
  • Purchased: 02/13/25 for $65.00 online via Still Austin

❌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.

UNBELIEVABLE Michter’s 10 Year Rye Review!  

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Get ready for an EXCLUSIVE Michter’s 10 Year Old Rye Whiskey Review! 🔥 Join us as we recount our incredible tour of the iconic Michter’s Fort Nelson Distillery in downtown Louisville, Kentucky! We were lucky enough to snag a bottle of the highly sought-after Michter’s 10 Year Old Rye and we’re bringing you all the delicious details.

In this episode, we enthusiastically dive deep into this exceptional release, exploring its rich aromas, complex palate, and unforgettable finish. Prepare for a symphony of flavors! 🥃

We also want to give a huge shoutout to the amazing leadership team at Michter’s, especially the dynamic duo, Dan McKee and Andrea Wilson! Their dedication to quality truly shines through in this premium rye whiskey.

Don’t miss out on this in-depth review of a truly special bottle! Hit play now to experience the magic of Michter’s Rye with us!

#michters #ryewhiskeyreview #tastingnotes 

ABOUT THIS BOTTLE

✴️ Michter’s 10 Year Single Barrel Rye (2024)

  • Classification: Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey
  • Company: Michter’s Whiskey
  • Distillery: Sourced from an undisclosed Kentucky distillery(ies)
  • Mash Bill: Undisclosed
  • Age: 10
  • Proof: 92.8
  • MSRP: $200
  • Purchased: 02/22/25 for $210 at Michter’s Fort Nelson in Louisville Kentucky

✅ RECOMMENDED FOR YOU

➡️ Bourbon Tastings & Reviews

🥃 Bourbon Cocktails

🚗 Bourbon Trail Tales & Tastes Series

🚘 The ULTIMATE Guide for the Kentucky Bourbon Train (BARDSTOWN)

🚘 The ULTIMATE Guide for the Kentucky Bourbon Train (LOUISVILLE)

🚨REMEMBER TO ALWAYS DRINK RESPONSIBLY🚨

✅ Visit: https://yourbourbonjourney.com  for additional stories to enhance Your Bourbon Journey!

❓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.

We Visited Kentucky Peerless Distilling And Found AMAZING Bourbon

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In Episode 11 of Bourbon Trail Tales & Tastes, we recount our first three visits to Kentucky Peerless Distilling in Louisville, Kentucky. Join us as we remember that first day, December 28, 2020, the second time September 3, 2022, which marked our 11th Stamp on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail, and even our third visit, October 29, 2022 where we were able to take their production tour. We share our insights into the experiences available at Kentucky Peerless Distilling, including a production tour, formal guided tastings, and the option of a non-appointment express tasting. To fully immerse ourselves in those cherished memories, we taste from two bottles purchased on our first visits, Rye Cherry Cola Single Barrel Distillery Selection and Spiced Orange Soda Single Barrel Bourbon Distillery Selection, enabling us to relive the original experiences and further enriching our journey with yet another highlight in Our Bourbon Journey.

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.

ABOUT THESE BOTTLES: 

Rye Cherry Cola Single Barrel Distillery Selection

  • Classification: Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey
  • Company: Kentucky Peerless Distilling Company
  • Distillery: Kentucky Peerless Distilling Company
  • Mash Bill: Undisclosed
  • Other: Sweet Mash, Non-Chill Filtered, No Water Added
  • Age: NAS (at least 4 years)
  • Proof: 110.4
  • Released: 2020
  • Purchased: 12/28/20 for no record at KY Peerless, Louisville KY

Spiced Orange Soda Single Barrel Bourbon Distillery Selection

  • Classification: Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
  • Company: Kentucky Peerless Distilling Company
  • Distillery: Kentucky Peerless Distilling Company
  • Mash Bill: Undisclosed
  • Other: Sweet Mash, Non-Chill Filtered, No Water Added
  • Age: NAS (at least 4 years)
  • Proof: 107.4
  • Released: 2022
  • Purchased: 09/03/22 for $129.99 at KY Peerless, Louisville KY

This bottle contains 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.

Bourbon 51 Engraving on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bourbon51.engraving/ 

Peerless Gingerbread House Review: https://youtu.be/U4cGE9WGAsE 

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Visit: https://www.youtube.com/@YourBourbonJourney/featured for additional videos to enhance Your Bourbon Journey!

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.

Why We Love this Ported Pumpernickel Rye Whiskey

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November 19, 2024
By Rebecca Herman McBrayer 

Last summer we purchased a bottle of Middle West Spirits Dark Pumpernickel Rye because Wayne is a huge fan of pumpernickel! Unfortunately, we had perhaps some unrealistic expectations of what that rye would taste like and we were somewhat disappointed. Not that is was bad, just that it didn’t align with expectations. Here is a LINK to that original tasting story.

We had several whiskey-loving friends who excitedly encouraged us to give Middle West Spirits another try. They specifically recommended exploring one of their double casks or a cask strength, which sounded thrilling! While attending Bourbon on the Banks in October, we eagerly sampled a few of their delightful offerings. That’s when we discovered and decided to purchase the amazing Double Cask Collection Ported Pumpernickel Rye Whiskey. This past weekend, we joyfully opened this bottle, excited to see what it had in store for us. We’re so glad we did!

Tasting Notes: Middle West Spirits Double Cask Collection Ported Pumpernickel Rye Whiskey

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

Mashbill – Dark Pumpernickel Rye, Non GMO, Open Pollinated Yellow Corn, 1-row Barley, Ohio Soft Red Winter Wheat (no percentages available)
Age – 5 years
Casks – Aged in Toasted and Charred American White Oak; finished in Tawny Port Casks
Proof – 99.5
Price Paid – $49.99 (plus tax)

Color – Dark amber. Nice legs.

Aroma – Port wine is the first aroma on the nose then followed closely by rye spices, vanilla, nutmeg, and brown sugar.

Tasted Neat – The Pumpernickel rye is evident as is the port wine. Flavors of vanilla, nutmeg, and stone fruit – date or fig – are also delightful.

Finish – There is a hint of chocolate and the nutmeg lingers, but there is much less port wine. Overall it has a medium to long finish.

Tasted with dried cranberry – More spice notes are prominent and the cranberry truly enhanced the flavors of port wine, overall, making it a bit brighter. Unfortunately, the finish is very limited. That said, a red wine drinker would likely love this pairing.

Tasted with a pecan – Barrel notes are on the first taste. Nutmeg and now cinnamon as well is quite present. The pecan muted the port wine, vanilla, and stone fruit notes. Overall, finish is very limited.

Tasted with dark chocolate – The flavors of Port wine returned and with a very creamy mouth feel. There are notes of chocolate and a lot of cinnamon; however, no stone fruit. The finish with the pecan is short to medium.

Final Notes and Video

We really enjoyed this rye for its overall flavor and complexity. The color of this rye whiskey boasts a bold dark amber, showcasing its impressive viscosity. On the nose, the first aroma is port wine, seamlessly followed by intriguing rye spices, rich vanilla, nutmeg, and a touch of brown sugar. Tasting it neat, the distinct Pumpernickel rye takes center stage, harmonizing beautifully with the port wine. The delightful flavors of vanilla, nutmeg, and stone fruit—be it date or fig—are a true highlight. As for the finish, it offers a subtle hint of chocolate, with nutmeg lingering gracefully, while the port wine recedes, presenting an overall medium to long finish that truly impresses.

This tasting illustrates why we never judge a spirit based on a single taste, nor do we form opinions about a distillery from just one bottle. We are thrilled to have acquired this exceptional bottle and revisit Middle West Spirits. The Tawny Port wine cask adds a remarkable complementary finish to this pumpernickel rye, and this bottle is bursting with complexity. While it may not suit every rye whiskey enthusiast because of the Tawny Port wine finish, it was an undeniable favorite for us!

Embracing the Craft,
Rebecca & Wayne

Photos and video by Rebecca Herman McBrayer

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

Straight Rye Whiskey

Rye Whiskey Basic Requirements – Rye whiskey must be made from at least 51% rye. It must be distilled at 160 proof or less.  It then must be placed into a new, charred oak container at a proof of 125 or below. Straight rye whiskey is a subcategory of rye whiskey that has been aged for at least two years in new, charred oak barrels and doesn’t contain any additives. If aged less than four years, the label must include an age statement. For additional information on bourbon requirements, please read this post – Rye Whiskey.

August 2024 Leiper’s Fork & High N’ Wicked Tasting

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August 23, 2024
By Rebecca Herman McBrayer 

It is hard to believe that last week at this time Wayne and I were attending the Bourbon Women SIPosium in Louisville. One of the events of the weekend was an ongoing auction. Thrilled that, together, we won four auctions. This tasting from a basket that was won.

For more about the conference:
2024 Bourbon Women SIPosium Day 1
2024 Bourbon Women SIPosium Day 2
2024 Bourbon Women SIPosium Day 3

Selected for this Tasting

Peacock Leiper’s Fork Distillery Single Barrel Cask Strength Bourbon Whiskey: 100% Local: Mashed, Fermented, Distilled, Aged and Bottled by Leiper’s Fork Distillery. It is made with local non-GMO Grains (Corn Grown on their Chief Distiller’s Farm), with the use of Toasted Barley Malt for Deeper Complexity. Also, it is Non-Chill Filtered for a Robust Profile and Mouthfeel, Pot Distilled for a Pre-Prohibition Style that is Full Bodied, has a Low Distillation Proof of 137* for Depth of Flavor, Low Barrel Entry Proof at 110* for a rounded Palette and is a Limited Release.

Single Barrel High N’ Wicked Rye Whiskey Women Peacock Preferred Pick: This 4-year-old rye is 114.4 proof and has a mash bill of 95% rye and 5% malted rye. 5 Year Aged Sour Mash Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey, Distilled by New Riff Distilling. All Aging in seasoned medium toast new #4 char American white oak barrels. Non Chill Filtered. No additives.

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

Peacock Leiper’s Fork Distillery Single Barrel Cask Strength Bourbon Whiskey

Mashbill – 70% Corn, 15% Wheat & 15% Toasted Barley Malt
Age – 5 years
Proof – 109.6 (cask strength)
Other – Non-Chill Filtered for a Robust Profile and Mouthfeel, Pot Distilled for a Pre-Prohibition Style that is Full Bodied, has a Low Distillation Proof of 137* for Depth of Flavor, Low Barrel Entry Proof at 110* for a rounded Palette and is a Limited Release.
Specifics – Barrel 452; Bottle 149 of 201

Price Paid – $105 (average of total auction price of $210; MSRP $85)

Color – Medium Amber

Aroma – Very inviting with caramel, vanilla, toffee, a light butterscotch with a hint of smokiness and cherry.

Tasted Neat – Similar to the nose with note of butterscotch, caramel, baking spices, cinnamon, and a hint of dark cherry.

Finish – Pleasant and lasting with baking spices, cinnamon, and notes of wood that linger in a great way.

Tasted with dried cranberry – This muted most of the great flavors and eliminated the sweetness. The baking spices remained and there is an addition of black pepper on the finish.

Tasted with a pecan – Very nice as the butterscotch returned with the addition of a very nice dark chocolate. The finish has more wood and oak flavor that previously.

Tasted with dark chocolate – The chocolate really increased the spice notes but not in a bad way. It also added a creaminess that was pleasant.

High N’ Wicked Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey Single Barrel

Mashbill – 95% Rye, 5% Malted Rye
Age – 4 years
Proof – 114.4
Other – Bourbon Women Peacock Preferred Pick
Price Paid – $105 (average of total auction price of $210; MSRP $80)

Color – Amber hue

Aroma – Rye grass, brown sugar, pears, and mint tea.

Tasted Neat –  Rye grass spices and cinnamon greet you with the first sip. Great mouth feel and there is a sweetness of pears and then a hint of oak and a slight smokiness.

Finish – The finish is very similar in that it begins spicy then leads into the pear and a bit of caramel and finally with a slight coolness of mint coupled by a sweet but smoky oakiness. Great finish.

Tasted with dried cranberry – Surprising as it created a rather sour note and the spices and rye grass way back. Not unpleasant but not great either.

Tasted with a pecan – As sometimes happens, the pecan amplified the spices and brought a lot of black pepper forward. The finish was very short as well.

Tasted with dark chocolate – Not very flavorful with the dark chocolate. It was creamy and with black pepper on the finish.

Discussion and Final Notes

Leiper’s Fork is undeniably exceptional. The outstanding taste and aroma make it a bottle worth savoring. The enticing nose draws you in, making you want to savor every drop. It’s truly a remarkable single barrel and its fantastic qualities leave a lasting impression. Once again, Leiper’s Fork has left us thoroughly impressed.

We were not familiar with High n’ Wicked at first, but after trying it, we were impressed by its quality. This rye whiskey truly stands out for its solid and enjoyable character. In fact, its high rye mashbill adds a unique touch and flavor profile. With its rich and diverse flavors, it offers an elegant and enjoyable rye experience that is sure to leave a lasting impression on anyone who appreciates a fine whiskey.

Happy to have won this auction so we could taste and enjoy each special bottle.

Cheers,
Rebecca & Wayne

Photos by Rebecca Herman McBrayer

Straight Bourbon & Rye Whiskey Requirements

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

Rye Whiskey Basic Requirements – Rye whiskey must be made from at least 51% rye. It must be distilled at 160 proof or less.  It then must be placed into a new, charred oak container at a proof of 125 or below. Straight rye whiskey is a subcategory of rye whiskey that has been aged for at least two years in new, charred oak barrels and doesn’t contain any additives. If aged less than four years, the label must include an age statement. For additional information on bourbon requirements, please read this post – Rye Whiskey.

NOTE: The 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.