In this bourbon review episode, we share insights from our recent tour of Michter’s Fort Nelson Distillery in downtown Louisville, Kentucky, which granted us the opportunity to acquire the Michter’s 10 Year Old Bourbon. We enthusiastically dive into an exploration of this exceptional release, savoring its rich aromas, complex palate, and memorable finish. Furthermore, we delve into the Michter’s Process, illustrating how their meticulous approach achieves the outstanding results that the Michter’s leadership team aspires to deliver.
ABOUT THIS BOTTLE
Michter’s 10 Year Bourbon (2024)
Classification: Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
Distillery: Whiskey is contract distilled per Michter’s mash bill and instructions
In Episode 9 of Bourbon Trail Tales & Tastes, we recount our memorable first visit to Second Sight Distillery in Ludlow, Kentucky. Join us as we vividly remember that day, Sunday, July 31, 2022, which marked our 13th distillery on Our Bourbon Journey and our 9th Stamp on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail. We share our insights into the experience available at Second Sight Distillery, our respect for its co-founders – Carus Waggoner and Rick Couch, and how it has become a must-stop whenever in Northern Kentucky. To fully immerse ourselves in those cherished memories, we taste from a bottle purchased on that very first visit, Oak Eye Bourbon, enabling us to relive the original experience 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.
In episode 7 of Thirsty Thursday Cocktails, we are crafting a drink that will wrap you in cozy warmth on a chilly evening – the Bourbon Hot Toddy! This timeless classic not only brings comfort but also delights the senses, making it a perfect companion for curling up by the fireplace or enjoying a quiet night in. With its straightforward ingredients, including the rich and smooth bourbon, fragrant honey, zesty lemon, and hot water, it strikes the ideal balance of sweetness and tartness, ensuring a satisfying sip every time. This terrific cocktail is sure to be your go-to evening sipper, providing both refreshment and relief from the cold. Tonight, we will master the Bourbon Hot Toddy cocktail with clear, step-by-step instructions, empowering you to create this delightful drink with confidence and style, perfect for sharing with friends or savoring on your own.
In this bourbon review episode, we’re diving into the highly anticipated first release of 2025 – the ECBP A125 from Elijah Craig Barrel Proof. As passionate ECBP enthusiasts, it’s remarkable to note that this is our first time grabbing the earliest release of the year! We’ll conduct a comprehensive analysis of this expression, from its captivating nose to the remarkable palate and finish. Join us for our expert insights on this inaugural release of Elijah Craig Barrel Proof for 2025, which boasts a lower age statement and proof than we initially expected.
ABOUT THIS BOTTLE Classification: Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey Distillery: Heaven Hill Mash Bill: 78% Corn, 12% Malted Barley, 10% Rye Age: 10 years, 7 months Proof: 118.2 MSRP: $74.99 Released: January 2025 Purchased: 02/27/25 for $99.99 at High Spirits in Evansville, IN
In episode 6 of Thirsty Thursday Cocktails, we’re crafting a bold and rich interpretation of the classic Bloody Mary. This time, we’re elevating it with BOURBON! Often referred to as a Bourbon Bloody Mary, a Bloody Marianne, or a Bloody Derby, this cocktail is a game changer. The beauty of the Bourbon Bloody Mary lies in its versatility; you can start with a prepared Bloody Mary mix and effortlessly enhance it with a few careful ingredients to match your taste. Perfect for bourbon enthusiasts, this cocktail transforms the traditional Bloody Mary, as the bourbon introduces a remarkable depth of flavor that’s simply irresistible.
RECIPE & DIRECTIONS: Optional: Rim Glass with Bacon Salt & Tajín® Clásico Seasoning In a mixing glass, add: …6 ounces Bloody Mary mix …2 ounces bourbon …3 dashes of Worcestershire sauce …2-3 dashes of Tajín® Clásico Seasoning …2-3 dashes of Maple Bacon Salt …2-3 dashes of celery salt …2-3 dashes of black pepper …1/2 teaspoon (or bar spoon) of Prepared Horseradish …2-3 drops Gravy Master …2-4 drops of Hot Sauce (to your spice level) …Squeeze of Fresh Lime Pour into a prepared highball glass filled with ice and pre-rimmed Garnish as desired. This can be simple to elaborate! …Mini Dill Pickle, Stuffed Olives, Cherry Tomato Enjoy!
In episode 5 of Thirsty Thursday Cocktails, we’re crafting an alluring Hot Chocolate Bourbon Kiss Cocktail! While the rich, bold bourbon takes center stage, every sip is infused with a symphony of flavors that will awaken your senses and delight your palate. Decadent white chocolate liqueur, exquisitely barrel-aged maple syrup, and enchanting chocolate bitters create a captivating mélange that ignites your senses. Elevate your experience with optional garnishes like luscious Ghirardelli Caramel and Chocolate Sauces, fluffy Whipped Cream, aromatic Cinnamon, and a vibrant Maraschino Cherry! This recipe celebrates the artistry of creating a truly special bourbon cocktail. In this episode, this seductive drink is elegantly served in a stunning cut glass Irish Coffee Mug, adding a touch of sophistication to any celebration.
RECIPE: 1.5 Ounces of Bourbon .5 Ounce of White Chocolate Liqueur <.5 Ounce of Bourbon Barrel Aged Maple Syrup 4 Dashes of Aztec Chocolate Bitters Hot Chocolate to Fill Garnish with Whipped Cream, A Dash of Cinnamon, and a Maraschino Cherry
Bourbon & Whiskey Industry Highlights from February 2025>> 49 Stories!
In February 2025, the bourbon and whiskey industry faced challenges, including potential trade wars affecting sales. Noteworthy developments included India reducing tariffs and significant growth for various distilleries. The Kentucky Bourbon Trail expanded, and new bottle releases were highlighted, showcasing the industry’s resilience and innovation amidst an evolving market landscape.
Industry Market News & Related Announcements>> 5 Stories
In this bourbon review episode, we showcase a remarkable find that took us by surprise – Stagg 24D, an unanticipated fourth release. Historically, Stagg has delighted enthusiasts with three annual releases (A, B, C), making this unexpected addition a thrilling revelation. While we haven’t actively pursued Stagg in the past, discovering this unique bottle during a recent trip to Louisville was exhilarating. We will thoroughly analyze every aspect, from its captivating nose to its impressive palate and finish. Join us as we share our in-depth insights on this exceptional surprise release of Stagg.
ABOUT THIS BOTTLE Classification: Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey Company: Sazerac Company Distillery: Buffalo Trace Distillery Mash Bill Percentages: Undisclosed Age: NAS (at least 4 years; rumored to be around 7-9 years old) Proof: 127.4 MSRP: $70 Released: Bottled in December 2024 but released in January 2025 Other: Barrel Proof, Unfiltered Purchased: 02/21/25 for $99.99 at Neat Bar & Bottle Shop in Louisville KY
Join us for a blind tasting as we embark on a journey to determine which whiskey truly reigns supreme! Throughout this experience, you will observe as we rank and compare a selection of four whiskeys that were selected from our February 2025 tastings.
OUR FOUR FINALISTS (in alphabetical order): *PENELOPE HAVANA COOPER SERIES *SILK VELVET WHISKEY, SINGLE BARREL 7 *STAGG 24D *WOODFORD RESERVE DOUBLE DOUBLE OAKED
Through a blind process, we evaluate each spirit for nose, taste, finish, and overall appeal. We rank them from 4th place to 1st place and then reveal each one. So grab your glasses and let’s raise a toast to an unforgettable evening brimming with celebration. Cheers!
DETAILS REGARDING OUR FOUR FINALISTS (in alphabetical order):
PENELOPE HAVANA COOPER SERIES Classification: Four Grain Straight Bourbon Whiskey Distilled By: MGP – Ross & Squibb Brand: Penelope Mashbill: 74% Corn, 16% Wheat, 7% Rye, 3% Malted Barley Age: 4 years on the Four Grain Straight Bourbon Whiskey Age: 12 months in Caribbean rum casks Age: 1 month in maple syrup barrels Proof: 93 Purchased: 02/15/25 for $149.99 at High Spirits, Evansville, IN Original YouTube Review:
SILK VELVET WHISKEY, SINGLE BARREL 7 Classification: Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey Company: Hargis Spirits, LLC – Henderson, KY Distiller: Jacob Call Distilled: In Kentucky Process: Sour Mash Bottled By: Western Kentucky Distilling Co. Mashbill: 75% Corn, 21% Rye, 4% Malted Barley Barrels: New White Oak Barrels with a #4 Char Level Age: 6 Years Proof: 107 Released: December 9, 2024 (Currently only in Kentucky) MSRP: $79.99 Purchased: 01/23/25 for $82.79 at Beverage Barn, Henderson, KY Original YouTube Review:
STAGG 24D Classification: Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey Company: Sazerac Company Distillery: Buffalo Trace Distillery Mash Bill Percentages: Undisclosed Age: NAS (at least 4 years; rumored to be around 7-9 years old) Proof: 127.4 MSRP: $70 Released: Bottled in December 2024 but released in January 2025 Other: Barrel Proof, Unfiltered Purchased: 02/21/25 for $99.99 at Neat Bottle Shop in Louisville KY Original YouTube Review:
WOODFORD RESERVE DOUBLE DOUBLE OAKED Type: Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey Distilled By: Woodford Reserve Mashbill: 72% Corn, 18% Rye, 10% Malted Barley Aged: 5-7 Years then up to 2 Years in a second barrel Proof: 90.4 MSRP: $199.99 (700 ml bottle) Released: January 2025 Purchased 02/01/25 for $299.99 at High Spirits, Evansville, IN Original YouTube Review:
NOTE: We were not compensated by the spirit producers for this review. This is simply our opinion based on what we tasted on this day. Please drink responsibly.
Is Preservation Distillery Worth the Trip to Kentucky?
In Episode 3 of Bourbon Trail Tales & Tastes, we recount our visit to Preservation Distillery in Bardstown, Kentucky. Join us as we vividly remember that warm and sunny day, April 23, 2022. It marked our third stop on our inaugural weekend of the Kentucky Bourbon Trail, where we collected our third stamp in our trail book. We eagerly share insights gained about Preservation and the work they are doing, complemented by a guided tasting featuring three interesting selections. To elevate the experience, we delve into a tasting of a bottle we purchased that day, Very Olde St. Nick Estate Reserve Summery Rye Whiskey, highlight another facet of 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.
Very Olde St. Nick
Estate Reserve Summery Rye Whiskey Produced and Bottled by Old St. Nick Distillery Bardstown, KY 81 Proof Typically, at least 5 years old The Summer Rye is usually selected prior to the heat of the summer. Paid: $169.00
Your Bourbon Journey 