Bourbon Hot Toddy: The Cozy Cocktail You Need This Winter

March 5, 2025February 27, 2025 / bourbonjourney / Leave a comment

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.

RECIPE:

2 oz. bourbon
1 bar spoon of lemon juice
Dash of Angostura Aromatic Bitters
Dash of cinnamon
Dash of nutmeg
4 oz hot water
2 full bar spoons of honey
Lemon slices and cinnamon sticks, for serving

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GLASSWARE

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Elijah Craig Barrel Proof Is The BEST SURPRISE In Whiskey

March 5, 2025March 4, 2025 / bourbonjourney / Leave a comment

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

AMAZON AFFILIATE LINKS (commissions earned):

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Unlock the Secrets of Bold Bourbon Bloody Marys!

March 4, 2025February 25, 2025 / bourbonjourney / Leave a comment

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!

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Bourbon Hot Chocolate: The Cozy Cocktail You Didn’t Know You Needed

March 3, 2025February 25, 2025 / bourbonjourney / Leave a comment

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

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Bourbon & Whiskey News: February 2025

March 1, 2025 / bourbonjourney / Leave a comment

03/01/25
Curated by Rebecca Herman McBrayer

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

Feb 3: In Kentucky bourbon country, the prospect of a trade war feels like a hangover that won’t go away

Feb 10: Bourbon Spirits Market Outlook 2025-2034: Key Trends, Growth Drivers, and Market Share

Feb 11: An unwanted double: US sales fall for American whiskeys as threats of a trade war heat up

Feb 14: America’s Bourbon Whiskey Gets Sweet Deal As India Slashes Tariffs From 150% To 50%

Feb 20: Bourbon Whiskey Market Is Booming So Rapidly | Four Roses, Michter’s Distillery, Beam Suntory

Distillery News >> 17 Stories

Feb 4: Holladay Distillery breaks ground on ironclad rickhouse in latest growth spurt

Feb 5: Jeptha Creed Reports Growth During Whiskey Downturn

Feb 5: Oregon makes history with first tribal distillery

Feb 5: Kentucky Bourbon Distillery Installs First Phase of $2M On-Site Solar Array

Feb 5: Western Wisconsin distillery scene: The craft, the business, the drinks — and the people who help make it run

Feb 5: Meet Whiskey Del Bac’s New Master Distiller and Director of Operations

Feb 7: “The next darling of the American whiskey movement” – Southern Distilling co-founder Pete Barger bets on single malt catching fire

Feb 7: Green River Whiskey Joins NY Racing Team and J.J. Yeley in Quest for The 2025 Daytona 500

Feb 10: Barrel house partially collapses at Jack Daniel’s Distillery

Feb 11: MGP Ingredients, Inc. Investors: February 14, 2025 Filing Deadline in Securities Class Action – Contact Lieff Cabraser

Feb 12: UPDATE: Jack Daniels Whiskey and the Multi-Million Dollar Roof Collapse

Feb 13: Barrel King and Mash & Drum’s Jason Callori Partner to Launch Drum Key Spirits

Feb 13: Frey Ranch joins Estate Whiskey Alliance

Feb 18: Brother’s Bond Bourbon Secures $7.5 Million in Fresh Funding

Feb 19: Green River Whiskey Resurrects Its Legacy – and a Ghostly Visitor – in First Brand Advertising Campaign in 100+ Years

Feb 19: Yellowstone Bourbon Announces Donation Milestone with National Parks Conservation Association

Feb 25: Office of Buffalo Trace whiskey distillery swept into Kentucky River by mudslide

Distillery Trail >> 6 Stories

Feb 6: Kentucky Bourbon Trail Grows to 60 Destinations

Feb 7: Kentucky Bourbon Trail adds 15 new locations. Meet the newest distillery members

Feb 7: Wenzel Whiskey added to Kentucky Bourbon Trail

Feb 7: Wenzel Whiskey and Becker & Bird Added to Northern Kentucky’s The B-Line

Feb 14: Bourbon Barrel Retreats may be Bourbon Country’s most unique spot for a nightcap

Feb 21: National Bourbon Week Returns to Bardstown June 10-15

Awards Announced >> 4 Stories

Feb 14: Marlene Holmes, Master Distiller of Milam & Greene Whiskey Makes History

Feb 19: This Mysterious Bourbon Is Suddenly Set to Be One of the Most Hunted Bottles of 2025

Feb 24: Chefs from Louisville restaurants, area distillers win big at Bourbon Classic competition

Feb 25: Kentucky Bourbon Trail Earns Honors at Icons of Whisky Awards

Bourbon Festival News & Updates >> 3 Stories

Feb 3: 4th Annual Bourbon & Bubbles Festival

Feb 5: Bourbon & Beyond announces 2025 Music Lineup

Feb 28: BBQ & Barrels • Owensboro, Kentucky

Bottle Releases >> 14 Stories

Feb 4: Exclusive: Heaven Hill Announces 19-Year-Old Wheat Whiskey for 2025 Heritage Collection

Feb 4: Limited release: High West’s new American single malt

Feb 6: Green River Introduces Kentucky Straight Wheated Single Barrel Bourbon

Feb 11: Kentucky Peerless Distilling Company Releases Toasted Rye Batch 1

Feb 12: Evan Williams is releasing a Kentucky Derby Festival Single Barrel Bourbon

Feb 13: Log Still Distillery to Release America’s 47 Bourbon

Feb 17: A. Smith Bowman to Release Annual Cask Strength Bourbon

Feb 18: Bulleit Frontier Whiskey Unveils Its First Bottled-in-Bond Expression, Distilled in Spring 2017

Feb 21: INTRODUCING FREY RANCH 100% BARLEY WHISKEY

Feb 24: Jack Daniel’s Introduces 14-Year-Old Tennessee Whiskey for the First Time in Over a Century

Feb 25: Bardstown Bourbon’s Distillery Reserve Brings Innovation to the Small Scale

Feb 25: Michter’s Announces 2025 Release of US*1 Barrel Strength Rye

Feb 26: Rebel Bourbon rolls out Kyle Busch 108 Single Barrel Bourbon

Feb 27: Woodford Reserve’s New Bourbon Tastes Just Like Chocolate and Packs a 139-Proof Punch

Discover the Surprising Stagg 24D Barrel Proof Bourbon!

March 1, 2025February 26, 2025 / bourbonjourney / Leave a comment

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

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Unveiling February 2025’s TOP Whiskey!

February 28, 2025February 28, 2025 / bourbonjourney / Leave a comment

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:

**REMEMBER TO ALWAYS DRINK RESPONSIBLY**

Please SUBSCRIBE and hit the LIKE button!

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

Questions? YourBourbonJourney@gmail.com

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.

Bourbon Trail Tales & Tastes – Episode 3 Preservation Distillery

February 27, 2025February 25, 2025 / bourbonjourney / Leave a comment

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

Bourbon Trail Tales & Tastes – Episode 1 Jim Beam

February 25, 2025February 25, 2025 / bourbonjourney / Leave a comment

What Happens When You Visit Jim Beam for the FIRST TIME?

In Episode 1 of Bourbon Trail Tales & Tastes, we reflect on the moment we acquired our Kentucky Bourbon Trail stamp book, April 22, 2022, marking the beginning of our exciting journey with our very first stamp collected and the unforgettable experiences we had that day. This remarkable adventure unfolded at none other than the historic and iconic James B. Beam Distilling, where we recount our first visit, share our favorite memories, and delve into the delightful flavors we tasted for the very first time. To top it off, we explore a tasting of a bottle we purchased that day, Legent, showcasing the essence of our Bourbon Trail journey.

Legent

Jim Beam’s Master Distiller, Fred Noe, collaborated with Shinji Fukuyo of Suntory to create Legent Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey.

Legent is a blend of 5 year old, unfinished bourbon from Jim Beam and bourbon that has been finished in ex-wine casks and ex-Sherry casks sourced from Spain. Sources indicate that the finished component is about 60% ex-wine and 40% ex-Sherry.

94 Proof

Price paid $49.99 (2022)

Bourbon & Whiskey News: January 2025

February 1, 2025 / bourbonjourney / Leave a comment

02/01/25
Curated by Rebecca Herman McBrayer

Bourbon & Whiskey Industry Highlights from January 2025 >> 41 Stories!

In January 2025, Kentucky’s whiskey industry experienced significant developments, including Brown-Forman layoffs, a focus on regenerative farming, and new distillery expansions. Noteworthy bottle releases included Old Forester’s 1924 bourbon and Buffalo Trace’s 2025 Prohibition Collection. Despite market corrections, industry leaders emphasized Kentucky’s bourbon sector remains robust.

Industry Market News & Related Announcements >> 10 Stories

Jan 14: Kentucky Distilleries and Precision Conservation Management Join Forces to Enhance Regenerative Corn Farming Practices throughout Commonwealth

Jan 14: Kentucky whiskey giant Brown-Forman laying off hundreds, closing Louisville cooperage

Jan 14: Is Kentucky’s bourbon boom over? What’s behind Brown-Forman layoffs, slipping sales

Jan 16: Bourbon Pioneers: How Kentucky Brothers Are Leading a European Craft Spirits Revolution

Jan 16: Amid uncertainty, leaders say Kentucky’s bourbon industry ‘is very strong’

Jan 21: Suntory CEO says the company has stockpiled whiskey in Europe due to possible Trump tariffs

Jan 21: ‘A correction in the market:’ How could Surgeon General’s warning impact Kentucky bourbon?

Jan 21: Distillers, industry experts discuss what the future might hold for bourbon

Jan 23: This New Investment Group Will Focus on Funding American Single Malt Whiskey

Jan 23: Cost highway: American whiskey’s affordable focus

Distillery News >> 6 Stories