August 2024 Shenk’s & Bomberger’s Tasting

August 11, 2024 / bourbonjourney / Leave a comment

August 11, 2024
By Rebecca Herman McBrayer

It is hard to believe that this time last week Wayne and I had just returned from our amazing Louisville, Chocolate, and Bourbon – Oh My! weekend. Our typical trips to Louisville are event-driven. It might be a dinner, a specific distillery experience, or even a bottle release. Last weekend was different. The trip was focused on seeing a long-time friend who would be there for the weekend. It was about friendship, sharing our passion for bourbon, exploring new things, and reconnecting with great friends from afar as well as in the local area. While not on a “bottle hunt” we are always open when a situation presents itself.

The Michter’s Shenk’s and Bomberger’s are typically very challenging to acquire as so few are made each year. While in Louisville, we wanted to share The Bar at Michter’s with our friends. We walked into Michter’s at 4:30 PM on Friday afternoon and I noticed the combination package sitting on the counter. I inquired if they were for sale and the person said, yes, and they are the last ones we have today. Well, there you go. You just never know and it certainly doesn’t hurt to ask!

Shenk’s Homestead Sour Mash Whiskey is a limited edition release celebrating Kentucky’s whiskey-making heritage and part of Michter’s Legacy Series. Founded by John Shenk in 1753, the distillery became known as Michter’s in the 20th Century. This small-batch, full-bodied whiskey is made using traditional sour mash methods in Kentucky, with a significant amount of rye and aged in toasted French oak barrels from the Vosges region, imparting a unique finish and rich mouthfeel.

Bomberger’s Declaration Distillery Bourbon pays tribute to the former Bomberger’s distillery from the 1800s and later as Michter’s in the 20th Century. This 2023 release is a small batch 108 proof Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, continuing the tradition of offering a bold and beautiful 108 proof Kentucky Straight Bourbon. It features a rich and complex flavor due to aging a portion of the bourbon in Chinquapin oak. The oak was seasoned for three years, toasted, and charred to exact specifications. Malted rye was also used in the production of this bourbon.

Wayne and I were excited to taste these side-by-side. Please be sure to read our approach to Tasting Whiskey if you haven’t already.

Shenk’s Homestead Kentucky Sour Mash Whiskey by Michter’s

Mashbill – Undisclosed but with “significant” rye.
Age – NAS (at least 4 years)
Other – 2023 Release; Batch 23D1490; Bottle 911 of 2836
Proof – 91.2
Price Paid – $119 (plus tax)

Appearance – Dark amber.

Aroma – Toffee, vanilla, light butterscotch, spices, a hint of smoke.

Tasted Neat – Very smooth and creamy and different from what was experienced on the nose as it is less sweet and more savory. There is a coffee note with dark chocolate and burnt caramel. The wood from the barrel is present as is a smooth spiciness and a hint of honey.

Finish – Like the palate, the finish is smooth and savory with black pepper and baking chocolate.

Tasted with dried cranberry – The cranberry brightened the otherwise deep, dark notes of Shenk’s. There is additional spice and some zesty notes that were very refreshing, although a completely different experience.

Tasted with a pecan – As often happens, the pecan brought forward even more wood and dark notes. The chocolate is dark and inviting with a nice white pepper and oak finish.

Tasted with dark chocolate – This option brought the coffee forward with chocolate, caramel, and black pepper. It is incredibly creamy and with a nice finish as well.

Bomberger’s Declaration Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey by Michter’s

Mashbill – Undisclosed but some malted rye was used
Age – NAS (at least 4 years)
Other – 2023 Release; Batch #23E1948; Bottle 427 of 2386
Proof – 108
Price Paid – $129 (plus tax)

Appearance – Rich mahogany

Aroma – A lot of wood influence with vanilla cream, burnt caramel, honeysuckle, stewed cherries, baking spices, and a hint of nuttiness.

Tasted Neat – First, there is a terrific mouthfeel that is creamy and truly coats the palate. Sweet notes of butterscotch, toffee, molasses, and cherries greet the palate. Cardamon, dark chocolate, graham crackers, and a hint of mint are welcoming mid-palate. As it reaches the back of the palate, the cinnamon, nutmeg, black pepper, and tobacco join the journey.

Finish – Medium to long finish with warm backing spices, coffee, oak, mint, and barrel char.

Tasted with dried cranberry – The cranberry really changed it to a tartness of lemon zest with a finish of white pepper.

Tasted with a pecan – Again, the pecan brought the wood forward and a strong cinnamon finish.

Tasted with dark chocolate – This was tasty and very creamy with coffee and chocolate followed by cinnamon and white pepper on the finish.

Discussion and Final Notes

This is somewhat difficult to select which we enjoyed the most as each has something special to offer.

The Shenk’s Homestead 2023 Release boasts a dark amber color and offers a delightful tasting experience. Aromas of toffee, vanilla, light butterscotch, and a hint of smoke lead to a smooth and creamy texture with rich notes of coffee, dark chocolate, burnt caramel, and a velvety spiciness. The finish is smooth and savory, with hints of black pepper and baking chocolate.

The Bomberger’s Declaration 2023 Release has a mahogany color and offers a rich tasting experience with aromas of wood, vanilla cream, burnt caramel, honeysuckle, cherries, baking spices, and a subtle nuttiness. The palate is coated with creamy sweetness and welcomes notes of butterscotch, toffee, molasses, and cherries, as well as hints of cardamom, dark chocolate, graham crackers, and mint. The finish is marked by warm baking spices, coffee, oak, mint, and barrel char.

As always, it all comes down to your personal taste preferences and what resonates with you on any given day. When it comes to Shenk’s and Bomberger’s, the experience is truly remarkable. However, the depth and consistency of Bomberger’s simply resonates with us on a whole other level. From the captivating nose to the lingering finish, every sip is a journey. Being bourbon enthusiasts, Bomberger’s exquisitely crafted flavors nudge it ahead in our book. That being said, we wholeheartedly recommend trying both, and eagerly anticipate the opportunity to savor future releases.

Cheers,
Rebecca & Wayne

Photos by Rebecca Herman McBrayer

Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey Spirit Requirements

Sour mash is a process in distillation that involves using material from an older batch to start fermenting a new batch of mash. It is very similar to the process of making sourdough bread with a starter. Using sour mash has the benefit of consistency between batches. It also reduces the possibility of unwanted bacterial growth. For additional information on bourbon requirements, please read this post – Four Stages of Making Spirits.

Bourbon Whiskey: 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. For additional information on bourbon requirements, please read this post – Bourbon 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.

August 2024 Louisville, Chocolate, and Bourbon – Oh My!

August 7, 2024 / bourbonjourney / Leave a comment

August 7, 2024
By Rebecca Herman McBrayer

With Louisville, KY being only a 90 minute drive for us, Wayne and I are fortunate to enjoy what the city has to offer on a pretty regular basis. Since completing the Kentucky Bourbon Trail, most of our more recent trips to Louisville have been related to a bourbon-related event. We then surround the event schedule with places that we really enjoy in Louisville.

This past weekend’s trip had a different driving force. A long-time friend from San Diego would be in Louisville for the Court Reporter’s Conference. We learned she had Friday late afternoon and evening free and that set the wheels into motion to plan something fun. The conference was held at the Galt House and that provided us with an incentive to stay there for the first time as well.

One plan led to another and it turned into a most enjoyable weekend of exploring all things Louisville – especially since it was bourbon-related!

The Galt House Hotel was originally opened in 1835 and is Louisville’s only water-facing hotel. We enjoyed our stay there and found the hotel to be extremely central and in walking distance to many things we wished to do.

FRIDAY – AUGUST 2ND

Whiskey Row Bourbon and Chocolate Walking Tour

Prior to the trip, we learned that our friend Heidi and her colleague Bridget had never had bourbon. They had mostly enjoyed wine and lighter spirits. We knew that we needed to provide a proper introduction to our native spirt and Louisville has many options. After some research, we were thrilled that the Whiskey Row Walking Tour – Bourbon and Chocolate Tour – was available late afternoon on Friday. This seemed to be the perfect way to introduce our friends to bourbon … with a bit of history and a dose of amazing chocolate!

Meet up at the Frazier History Museum with our awesome guide, Drew!

Drew, our Whiskey Row tour guide, was amazing and he was able to share so many stories about Louisville that we had previously not hear. Drew is a native and lifelong Louisvillian. For 15 years, he has happily guided tourists, travelers, and native Louisvillians to famous Bourbon distilleries, Thoroughbred horse farms, and historic city sites. As a Professional Tour Guide, he takes pride in offering tours that are not only fun and entertaining, but also informative and historically accurate. Prior to becoming a guide, Drew dedicated 22 years to the City of Louisville’s Economic Development Department, playing a direct role in impactful development projects that significantly contributed to the growth and transformation of Louisville.

First stop – Art Eatables!

At Art Eatables®, the founders chose to create something new… the Small-batch Bourbon Truffle™, showcasing a unique approach to combining confection and bourbon. The founder, Kelly Ramsey, is the world’s first bourbon-certified chocolatier, and the company’s focus on accentuating the character of each bourbon through carefully selected chocolates sets their truffles apart. Even non-bourbon enthusiasts have found enjoyment in these truffles, as they provide a delightful blend of rich Belgian-style chocolates and the elegant flavors of Kentucky’s beloved bourbons.

Tasting flight of bourbon truffles and bourbons.

Our flight included Maker’s Mark, Angel’s Envy, and Michter’s Bourbon. Each piece of chocolate heaven was truly had the essence of each bourbon melded in the most amazing way within the fine truffle. It was mind-blowing, intriguing, and fabulously delicious all at the same time.

Second Stop – Buzzard’s Roost

Our second stop was at Buzzard’s Roost Distillery. Opened in April 2023, it is a fantastic addition to the bourbon distillery scene on Whiskey Row and we have enjoyed it on numerous occasions. We were fortunate to have Jeff Holmes lead us on this part of the experience in their very new Speak Easy room.
We had the opportunity to savor two exquisite whiskey tastings, expertly paired with two of their exclusive chocolates crafted by Art Eatables using the same whiskey as the tasting. Among the selection are the remarkable Double Gold winning Char #1 Rye Whiskey and the exceptional Platinum winning Char #1 Bourbon, both victors at the 2023 San Francisco World Spirits Competition.

Third & Final Stop – Bristol Bar & Grille

The last stop on the tour was a local Louisville gem with a fascinating history, the Bristol Bar and Grille. Affectionately known as “The Bristol” by locals, it was established in 1977 and continues to be owned by its founder, Doug Gossmann. Gathered around a table, we all had the opportunity to engage in lively conversation and share what we loved about the tour. The highlight was the delightful pairing of Old Forester Bourbon with the iconic Kentucky Derby-Pie®. We also delved into the captivating history behind the bourbon and pie, discovering why both have become integral to the tradition of the Kentucky Derby®.

The Whiskey Row Bourbon and Chocolate Walking Tour completely surpassed our expectations! The pairings and hospitality at Art Eatables, Buzzard’s Roost, and Bristol Bar and Grille were absolutely exceptional. At every turn, Drew embodied the perfect guide, sharing his extensive knowledge and passion for Louisville with us. We cannot recommend this tour highly enough! Just a heads up: it’s currently seasonal and available from March through October.

Time to Explore

Just because the tour ended didn’t mean we had concluded our Louisville adventure. We still had a couple more places that we wanted to share with friends.

The Bar at Fort Nelson

Located on the second floor of Michter’s Fort Nelson Distillery, The Bar at Fort Nelson boasts classic cocktails carefully curated by cocktail historian and author David Wondrich, along with innovative creations by the talented bar team. Our frequent visits to this bar in Louisville are always a delight, as the atmosphere, service, and cocktails never fail to impress. On this particular visit, I was excited to recommend the Falls of the Ohio Fizz cocktail, which comes with an unexpected and delightful twist – laser printing on the top! The drink itself features Michter’s US*1 Kentucky Straight Rye, Orange Curacao, Lemon, Sugar, Egg White, and Soda. I had a good feeling that the flavor profile would be just right for Bridget and Heidi, and the “surprise” element would be a hit. Needless to say, they absolutely loved it!

*Bridget and Heidi enjoying their cocktails*

As a bonus, Andrea Wilson, Michter’s Master of Maturation as well as its Chief Operating Officer, was there and I was able to have a brief conversation with her. I look forward to seeing her at SIPosium in a couple of weeks. PLUS, from the second floor bar, you can see down into the distillation room. Heidi and Bridget were able to see the fermentation tanks and pot stills, which they found fascinating. It was a great stop for our day!

Bardstown Bourbon Co. Louisville Tasting Room

We always stop in this location because we love their spirits and they often have “distillery only” options to purchase. You can also taste a flight of their bourbon or have an amazing cocktail. Wayne and I decided on neat pours and I recommended cocktails to our friends based on their flavor profiles. Everyone was pleased with their selections and it was another opportunity to visit and enjoy one another’s company.

**Heidi’s – What’s Up Doc?** (Yes, that is on FIRE!)

After so many fantastic bourbon stops, it was definitely time for dinner! We headed back to the Bristol Bar & Grille for great food, more conversation, and a lot of laughs. We shared stories of our adventures and savored every moment of togetherness. After our satisfying meal, we strolled back to our hotel. As we bid each other goodnight, the day’s memories filled in our minds, fueled by the joy of cherished friendships, delectable chocolates, exquisite bourbon, and the delights of a remarkable culinary journey.

SATURDAY, AUGUST 3RD

We had a leisurely morning and then decided to walk to a nearby restaurant that we have often noticed but never stopped in to check it out. Bluegrass Brewing Company located at 3rd & Main. Wayne decided to have an Extra Spicy Bloody Mary and I enjoyed a pour of Bourbon Barrel Stout. We opted to share the Bluegrass Burger – an Angus Burger with Pimento Cheese Ranch, Haystack Onions, Fried Green Tomato and Cheddar Cheese. It was served with house-made chips. It was terrific and we recommend it as a great choice.

We headed back to our hotel room to relax until it was time to drive to Michael Veach’s home for “drinks on the porch” at 1PM. This would be our second opportunity to taste with them and we were quite excited. If you aren’t familiar with Michael Veach, we encourage you to get to know him at the YouTube channel and website – bourbonveachdotcom. He is a bourbon enthusiast, writer, and historian who was inducted into the Kentucky Bourbon Hall of Fame in 2006.

Tasting with Mike & Matt – Porch Session #1

When we arrived, Mike already had the porch and the tasting set up and ready to go. However, much to our surprise, we learned that it would be recorded for an episode of “Mike & Matt Taste” for their YouTube Channel – BourbonVeach. It would be the start of what they will call, The Porch Sessions. Wow – what an honor!

Before we got down to the business of tasting, we had the opportunity to meet Matt’s girlfriend, Rebecca, who is the one behind the camera and video editing. In addition, Mike’s fiancé, Rosemary, was home for a short while prior to the start of the filming. It was wonderful to get to know Rebecca and catch up with Rosemary.

We weren’t exactly sure how the quality of the recording would turn out as there was car detailing at a neighbors and an occasional helicopter flying over. We just learned to roll with it and embrace it as the real outdoors that we were experiencing. As you can see in the photo above, we were very excited to taste a dusty bottle – 1974 Old Crow Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey! Please view the video below for the tasting notes as well as fun porch conversation!

We were both surprised and honored to be a part of the “Mike & Matt Taste” for our Porch Session visit.

At the conclusion of the tastings (we also tasted a bottle that we brought to share – Starlight Distillery‘s Bourbon Finished in Peach Brandy Barrel – we wrapped up the video as Matt and Rebecca needed to depart. However, we stayed to chat and smoke a couple cigars with Mike. We inquired about their favorite restaurants in the area. Mike highly recommended Volare Italian Ristorante and Bourbons Bistro. Both sounded amazing and we quickly checked Open Table and were able to get a 6PM reservation at Bourbons Bistro. We hated to depart but know we will visit again. The experience was a great gift and as a momento, we were also invited to take the unfinished Old Crow home with us. Thank you, Mike, for an amazing afternoon of great pours, conversation, and friendship.

Dinner at Bourbons Bistro

It was terrific that Bourbons Bistro was about a mile away as we were ready for dinner. I didn’t take any location photos as I didn’t want to disturb other diners. However, this page on their website has a fantastic set of photos.

We each decided to enjoy a neat pour of Buzzard’s Roost Char #1 Bourbon while sharing Mike’s recommended appetizer: Garlic and Goat Cheese Spread – roasted garlic, bleu cheese, goat cheese, cream cheese, sweet red and green peppers, baby spinach, French bread. Each were devine! For our dinner choices, Wayne started with the Wedge Salad and we each ordered the Bourbons Chop – 12 oz. Frenched bone-in pork chop wrapped in proscuitto topped with Asadero cheese and a bourbon veal demi glace, Yukon mashed potatoes, garlic haricot verts. Every bite was amazing and the staff was attentive and very helpful – we were so happy to enjoy this restaurant.

Background on Bourbons Bistro and its Owner: Jason Brauner is the owner of Bourbons Bistro in Louisville, Kentucky, which he opened in 2005 with the intention of creating a place that celebrated the state and people of Kentucky through its focus on bourbon. Over the years, Jason not only educated himself about bourbon but also innovated within the industry, introducing concepts such as bourbon flights, barrel picks, and bourbon experiences. Since opening Bourbon’s Bistro in 2005, Jason has established an active single barrel program, working closely with Kentucky’s master distillers to gain knowledge and respect. In 2019, Judy Hollis Jones and Jason Brauner met during a barrel pick and decided to create Buzzard’s Roost Sipping Whiskey, aiming for exceptional and unique quality. Jason oversees production to ensure each batch exceeds the expectations of discerning whiskey drinkers.

We look forward to meeting Jason at the Owensboro Bourbon Society‘s August meeting!

SUNDAY, AUGUST 4TH

Before departing for home, we wanted to make one final stop at our favorite breakfast place in downtown Louisville – Doc Crow’s on Main Street. Over time, we have tried many of their breakfast options but have each settled on our favorites. For me, it is the Spinach & Feta Omelette while Wayne loves a combo of Buttermilk Biscuits N’ Gravy and a Build Your Own Omelette. As always, the food and service were top notch. We highly recommend Doc Crow’s when in Louisville!

That’s a Wrap!

It’s impossible to identify just one “favorite” moment from our weekend in Louisville as each was absolutely unforgettable. Our time was jam-packed with all things bourbon, from a fascinating walking tour that introduced our friends into the world of bourbon through exquisite pairings of chocolate and bourbon, to exploring tasting rooms at different distilleries. The weekend also featured an exclusive bourbon tasting porch session with bourbon expert Michael Veach, dining at exceptional restaurants, and a visit to our go-to breakfast spot before heading home. This truly added an extraordinary chapter to Our Bourbon Journey, and we hope it inspires some noteworthy stops on Your Bourbon Journey as well!

Cheers until next time!
Rebecca & Wayne

August 2024 Farmer & Frenchman Green River Dinner Pairing

August 3, 2024August 5, 2024 / bourbonjourney / Leave a comment

August 2, 2024
By Rebecca Herman McBrayer

As you might have gleaned through other articles, Wayne and I thoroughly enjoy Green River – their spirits, distillery, and most importantly, their people. Therefore, when we learned of their dinner pairing event with Farmer & Frenchman (a place we have wanted to visit), we immediately got tickets for the August 1st event.

We arrived in Robards, KY and were immediately taken by the beauty of the surroundings. There were lovely buildings, little cabins, grape vines, and green for miles.

We had to get a few pictures before the event began!

When we checked in, we were escorted to a private table. In itself, this was different as we are accustomed to such events being at shared tables.

The dining was somewhat divided – the more formal area with chandeliers and white tablecloths and the enclosed patio section where we were seated.

Four Pours of Green River

Our cocktail and three neat pours of Green River.

Four Course Meal

The first two courses were seafood based and that meant that Wayne got double helpings. He enjoyed each offering but felt the Creole Caponata was his favorite of the two.

Description – Creole Caponata: Crawfish, sweet and sour peppers, roasted eggplant, and creole spices on toast. Served with Gold Rush Cocktail with Green River Wheated Bourbon.

Description – Fried Scallops: Deep fried scallop pieces, grilled polenta, and green tomato chutney. Served with Green River Bourbon 90 proof.

The Waygu Lasagna was mind blowing. Your palate is expecting a traditional lasagna but this was so rich and with amazing depth.

Description – Wagyu Lasagna: Smoked and braised wagyu beef shank ragu, tomato and red wine sauce, bechamel, and smoked mozzarella. Served with Green River Rye.

The dessert might have been my favorite bite of the evening. Such an explosion of flavors that worked amazingly well together. Wow!

Description – Cherry Covered Chocolate: Triple chocolate marscapone cheesecake with a warm cherry gastrique. Served with Green River Full Proof Bourbon 117 Proof.

The evening was wrapping up and it was time to say our goodbyes. It was well worth the drive and it has also encouraged us to return to the Farmer & Frenchman for a longer stay.

But before leaving, we had to get a picture with friends – Caryn, Renee, and Aaron!!!

Cheers until next time!
Rebecca & Wayne

July 2024 Bardstown Collection BBC Tasting

August 1, 2024 / bourbonjourney / Leave a comment

08/01/24
By Rebecca Herman McBrayer

Last weekend, Wayne and I each selected a bottle not-yet-opened that we wanted to taste. Wayne selected the Evan Williams 23 Year Old Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey. I selected the 2024 Bardstown Bourbon Collection by Bardstown Bourbon Company that we were able to acquire at their Louisville location on June 14th, National Bourbon Day.

In 2023, we splurged and booked a two-day Mint Julep VIP Tour that included amazing experiences at the six participating Bardstown Bourbon Collection distilleries. We were able to acquire two of each expression for the 2023 collection. We were not able to do that for 2024 and really didn’t expect to purchase any of the seven 2024 collection. However, we were thrilled when we walked into the Bardstown Bourbon Co’s Louisville Tasting room and saw it available!

There isn’t a lot written about this specific releasee. Some of the particulars, such the age and mashbill of the barrels selected for blending, I was able to glean while listening to a couple brief interviews with Steve Nally, their Master Distiller.

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

Bardstown Bourbon Company’s 2024 Bardstown Bourbon Collection – Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey

Mashbill – Blend of two sourced bourbons:
(1) 72% of a 9-10 year old that is 75% corn, 13% rye, and 12% Malted Barley;
(2) 28% of a 14 year old that is 78% Corn, 13% Rye, and 9% Malted Barley.

Age – Blend (see above), at least 9 years old.

Finish – Each aged individually for an additional 3.5 months in new toasted oak barrels prior to blending.

Other – Bottle #73

Proof – 119.4

Price Paid – $199.99 (plus tax)

Color – Dark amber and with terrific legs on the glass.

Aroma – The nose is very inviting. There is a pleasant sweetness of rich caramel, vanilla cream, honey, and a hint of cotton candy. Then the barrel characteristics appear with oak, grain, and a light smoke.

Tasted Neat – There is a lot going on with this bourbon. Coffee flavor awakens your senses. Next is the sweetness of caramel, dark fruit, with honey. There is also roasted peanuts and thoughts of cinnamon toast followed by oak and leather. Wow! Really terrific.

Finish – The finish is long with cinnamon, honey, caramel, a slight oak, and nuttiness along with leather and white pepper. The finish persists in an amazingly pleasant way.

Tasted with dried cranberry – Wayne and I differed on our experience with the dried cranberry. He felt the spice really picked up while I felt it smoothed a bit and the leather was present. We agreed that it was less sweet, the coffee notes faded, and the finish was quite shortened.

Tasted with a pecan – The coffee notes returned and it also had dark chocolate, cinnamon, and wood flavors. The finish was medium in length, not as pronounced as when drinking it neat.

Tasted with dark chocolate – A lot of woodiness with white pepper on the palate. The finish is somewhat muted but still present.

Tasted with a few drops of water – Steve Nally mentioned in a video that he suggests drinking this on ice. We decided to add a few drops of water to see if there was a notable shift. The water opened up the nose and the aromas were quite pronounced; however, the flavors were not as prominent as when we originally tasted it neat. Not bad, but we definitely preferred it neat overall.

Discussion and Final Notes

We thoroughly enjoyed this pour! It is a sensational journey on the nose and palate. In summary, the nose provides irresistible allure, offering a delightful blend of rich caramel, vanilla cream, honey, and a hint of cotton candy. Soon, the bold character of the barrel emerges, bringing notes of oak, grain, and a delicate hint of smoke. This bourbon presents a complexity that tantalizes the senses. A rush of coffee flavor invigorates the palate, followed by a symphony of caramel sweetness, dark fruit, and honey. Roasted peanuts and the memory of cinnamon toast dance gracefully before yielding to the embrace of oak and leather. Remarkable! The finish lingers endlessly, weaving together cinnamon, honey, caramel, subtle oak, and a touch of nuttiness, while hints of leather and white pepper add depth. The finish leaves a lasting impression of sheer pleasure.

As is evident from our summary, we are thrilled to have this bottle and a “back-up” bottle. If you are fortunate to locate this 2024 Bardstown Collection by Bardstown Bourbon Co, we highly recommend that you make the investment. We will enjoy this for years to come.

Cheers,
Rebecca & Wayne

Photos by Rebecca Herman McBrayer

Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey Spirit Requirements

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.

For additional information on bourbon requirements, please read this post – Bourbon Whiskey.

NOTE: The bourbon in this review was 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.

July 2024 Industry Highlights

August 1, 2024July 31, 2024 / bourbonjourney / Leave a comment

08/01/24

Bourbon & Whiskey News Highlights from July 2024.

The bourbon and whiskey news highlights from July 2024 include a judge ruling the tax code’s home distilling ban as unconstitutional, notable distillery news, upcoming bourbon festivals and events, new limited-edition bourbon releases, and the launch of special whiskey series. Additionally, industry developments and new whiskey blends are also featured in the update.

Industry Market News & Related Announcements

Tax Code’s Home Distilling Ban Is Unconstitutional, Judge Rules

Distillery News

Bespoken Spirits Joins KDA as Craft Level Member

Whiskey House of Kentucky Begins Production at Industry Transforming Distillery

Bespoken Spirits brings technology to Bourbon Trail

Officials hope new distillery in Morehead will extend Kentucky’s Bourbon Trail east

Kentucky residents fight Rabbit Hole distillery expansion

5 people killed in explosion at Jose Cuervo distillery

Death toll rises to 6 in explosion and fire at tequila factory in Mexico

Ohio’s largest distillery expands, has plans to keep up with Kentucky Bourbon Trail

Distillery Trail

8 Ideal Kentucky Destinations For A 3-Day Weekend In 2024

Here are 5 food and bourbon walking tours you can take in Louisville

Buffalo Trace Distillery Just Opened a Pop-Up in Paris — and It’s Serving Some Seriously Premium Pours

Awards Announced

Kentucky Bourbon Hall of Fame Announces 2024 Class

Bourbon Women Announce 2024 WOW Awards Finalists

Bourbon Festival News

Kentucky Bourbon Festival Tickets on Sale Now

Bourbon & Beyond Tickets on Sale Now

Bourbon on the Banks Festival Tickets on Sale Now

St. Louis Bourbon Festival Tickets on Sale Now

Busch Gardens announces new Bourbon & BBQ Festival

Bourbon and Beyond announces Sting as new headliner. Get tickets today

Bottle Releases

Old Forester Just Dropped a New Limited-Edition Bourbon Aged in Rum Barrels

Cedar Ridge Distillery Announces The Quintessential Special Release: The Untitled Cigar Malt Project

Elijah Craig Just Dropped a New Toasted Rye Whiskey Unlike Anything You’ve Sipped

Knob Creek® Bourbon X Rye Blends The Best Of Knob Creek® Bourbon And Rye

Uncle Nearest Premium Whiskey To Launch ‘Lost Chapter’ Series Commemorating Founder Fawn Weaver’s Best-Selling Book, Love & Whiskey

American Whiskey Distillers Are Reclaiming the Bourbon-Rye Blend

A $6,000 Weller Bourbon Was Spotted At Costco. What Makes It So Special?

Limestone Branch Distillery announces 2024 Yellowstone Bourbon Limited Edition Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey

Colonel E.H. Taylor Barrel Proof Rye Is the Best-Tasting Rye Whiskey This Year

New Green River expression eyes the on-premise

Two Souls Releases Summer 2024 Whiskey Trio

July 2024 Evan Williams 23 Year Old Tasting

July 30, 2024 / bourbonjourney / Leave a comment

July 30, 2024
By Rebecca Herman McBrayer

Last weekend, Wayne and I each selected a bottle not-yet-opened that we wanted to taste. Wayne selected the Evan Williams 23 Year Old Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey. I was very pleased with his choice! We originally tasted this offering on National Bourbon Day, June 14th, and had the opportunity to purchase it at the Evan Williams “A Toast to Bourbon” dinner.

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

Evan Williams 23 Year Old Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey

Mashbill – 78% Corn, 12% Malted Barley, 10% Rye
Age – 23 Years
Proof – 107
Price Paid – $399.99 (plus tax)

Color – Dark copper with very nice legs on the glass.

Aroma – Deep and dark come to mind first, including dark chocolate. Spice and honey blend in an inviting way. It is evident this is an older bourbon based on the aged oak notes. But then the sweetness surprises you with vanilla, marshmallow, and crème brûlée. Allspice, nutmeg, and leather add another dimension. What a nose!

Tasted Neat – Similar to the nose, the tannins from the wood come forward to start, but the sweetness will not be denied. There is vanilla cream, sweet corn, rich cherry, and a lovely honey. Next, rich notes of dark chocolate, toasted nuts, and marshmallow are present. Finally, warm leather, nutmeg, allspice, and cinnamon let you know this bourbon has some great barrel influence.

Finish – There is a medium length finish. The finish includes sweet notes such as toffee, the richness of dark chocolate, some dryness from the tannins including oak, licorice, tobacco, and orange peels, plus a bit of black pepper.

Tasted with dried cranberry – The sweetness of the dried cranberry created a strong oak presence with leather and the finish was greatly reduced.

Tasted with a pecan – This brought the dark chocolate front and center with a hint of cinnamon and tobacco. Again, the finish is very short.

Tasted with dark chocolate – The chocolate actually removed the dark chocolate notes and replaced it with mostly a light cinnamon without a lot of taste and virtually no finish.

Discussion and Final Notes

We definitely preferred drinking this neat. The pecan wasn’t bad and this might be good with a steak or perhaps a nice cigar. But when having a bourbon of this maturity, we will savor and enjoy it neat and on its own.

Obviously, this is an expensive bottle of bourbon. There are not a lot of bourbons offered at 23 years and even fewer that have such an inviting nose, amazing journey on the palate, and a great finish. Given the price of some 20+ year bourbons, we find this to be of good value. While this would not be an “every-day-drinker,” we are thrilled to have it and will enjoy it whenever we feel the desire to dive into some extra age and complexity. With the warm notes from the barrel, we plan to enjoy this once the weather gets cooler. It could be that perfect pour to sink into on a cold night.

Cheers,
Rebecca & Wayne

Photos by Rebecca Herman McBrayer

Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey Spirit Requirements

July 2024 Middle West Spirits Dark Pumpernickel Rye Tasting

July 28, 2024 / bourbonjourney / Leave a comment

July 28, 2024
By Rebecca Herman McBrayer

Wayne and I have seen a few people mention Middle West Spirits out of Columbus, Ohio and have heard very good things about what they are producing. The notion of a rye whiskey made with dark pumpernickel rye was very intriguing and when we had an opportunity to get a bottle online, we did.

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

Middle West Spirits Dark Pumpernickel – Straight Rye Whiskey

Mashbill – Dark pumpernickel rye, Ohio soft red winter wheat, Yellow Corn, 2-row barley (specifics unknown)
Age – Minimum of 4 Years (per website)
Proof – 96
Price Paid – $54.99 (including tax)

Appearance – Amber with nice legs.

Aroma – Rye grass, honeysuckle, cinnamon, slight vanilla, and black licorice.

Tasted Neat – Good mouthfeel. Rye grass, cardamom, light cinnamon, honey, white pepper, black licorice, ginger, a hint of dark fruit maybe fig.

Finish – Medium finish with white pepper, cinnamon, rye spices, a hints of mint, oak, and black licorice.

Tasted with dried cranberry – Very fruity/fig with a lot of rye but less pepper.

Tasted with a pecan – Smokey and a lot of oak, a hint of leather and vanilla, and rye toast.

Tasted with dark chocolate – Dark chocolate with a hint of mint tea, and rye spices on the finish.

Discussion and Final Notes

This dark pumpernickel makes a very nice rye. However, we really had hoped to find more of the pumpernickel and its darkness to create a more distinct flavor profile. From that standpoint, it was somewhat disappointing, but a nice rye whiskey, nevertheless.

The Ohio soft red winter wheat component could be what is lightening the rye aspects of the pour. Hard to know for sure and this is just supposition. Also, we believe that additional time in the barrel could really enhance some of the “hint” notes we identified or perhaps a higher proof point, such as of 105 versus 96, might for the overall flavor profile. We would love to try this at cask strength! I noted on their website that both their cask strength and single barrel options have garnered awards.

This is a good bottle of rye, and we enjoyed our first experience with it. If it had been a blind tasting and we had no idea about the type of rye, that may have influenced our palates in a different way. We are happy that we have it. If we see future bottles that are somewhat older or cask strength, we will certainly want to see if it creates a different experience.

Cheers,
Rebecca & Wayne

Photos by Rebecca Herman McBrayer

Straight Rye Whiskey Spirit Requirements

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 whiskey in this review was 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.

July 2024 Wild Turkey Triumph Tasting

July 25, 2024 / bourbonjourney / Leave a comment

July 25, 2024
By Rebecca Herman McBrayer

Wayne and I have been wanting to open this bottle and finally found a moment to relax and enjoy a pour. “Crafted with Conviction” by Eddie Russell, this year’s limited release of Master’s Keep – Triumph – is a passion project at Wild Turkey. This release is a nod to Eddie’s son, Bruce, Associate Blender at Wild Turkey and someone with a passion for rye. At 10-years old, this is the oldest age-stated rye ever released by Wild Turkey.

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

Wild Turkey Master’s Keep Triumph – Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey

Mashbill – 51% Rye, 37% Corn, 12% Malted Barley
Age – 10 Years
Proof – 104
Price Paid – $275 (plus tax and shipping)

Appearance – Copper. Legs are somewhat slow to form but very substantive when appear.

Aroma – Initially, it is light and not very distinct. As it opens and the nose acclimates, a lot begins to happen. There is a sweetness often reminiscent of bourbon with vanilla and crème brûlée. Then the rye components of mint, allspice, and cloves drift into the aroma. Finally, there is a hint of light fruits such as apples and pears with a touch of nutmeg. It is quite a journey just on the nose!

Tasted Neat – Much like the nose, tasting requires several approaches to allow the flavor profile to touch each part of the mouth. It shifts and turns with each sip. The viscosity, as indicated by its legs, really provides a wonderful mouthfeel and the texture coats the palate very pleasantly. There is a lovely sweetness of honey, vanilla, and baked apples or pears. The flavors transition to deeper notes of dark chocolate, brown sugar, dates or possibly figs. The barrel notes come forward with oak and baking spices.

Finish – The finish is very long and lingering. Wood notes are dominate with oak and black pepper. However, there is also a light mint sensation to lighten up the otherwise darkness of the finish. It is certainly a journey!

Tasted with dried cranberry – At first sip, it became a spice bomb of red hot cinnamon. However, it calmed down to release a hint of citrus on the front and a brighter, but still a spicy finish.

Tasted with a pecan – This is interesting as it brought the wood notes very forward with dark chocolate and mint. Still a spicy finish but more along the line of ginger.

Tasted with dark chocolate – Wow, this became a chocolate desert drink, almost like Mexican Hot Chocolate with cinnamon.

Discussion and Final Notes

Perhaps it is the length of time in the barrel, the 37% corn, or the specific barrel selections, but this rye tends to waiver between a bourbon and a rye experience. As such, it would be a great pour for someone who hasn’t regularly enjoyed a rye whiskey.

That aside, this is an outstanding rye whiskey. With a 51% rye mashbill, the rye spices and rye grass notes don’t hit you upside they head; instead, they dance around and play with your nose and palate. As noted above, the journey it takes you on is an incredibly pleasant one and one that has a surprise around every turn.

Overall, I’m glad that we were able to get a bottle at MSRP directly from Wild Turkey. This is a wonderful addition to our Wild Turkey collection as well as our rye options.

Cheers,
Rebecca & Wayne

Photos by Rebecca Herman McBrayer

Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey Spirit Requirements

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. In addition, to be Kentucky Straight Whiskey, it has the additional requirement that it must be produced and aged at least 1 year in the state of Kentucky. For additional information on bourbon requirements, please read this post – Rye Whiskey.

Old Louisville Whiskey Co Visit & Tasting

July 16, 2024July 16, 2024 / bourbonjourney / Leave a comment

July 16, 2024
By Rebecca Herman McBrayer

Wayne and I visited Old Louisville Whiskey Co as our last stop of a fantastic three-day bourbon experience in the Frankfort, KY area and what a terrific capstone that visit was for our weekend. It was Wayne’s birthday weekend (Feb 22-24) and we had kicked things off with a Bourbon Session at the Ripy Mansion featuring Revival Vintage Spirits. The next day we visited Wild Turkey, where we were able to meet Jimmy Russell. We also made rather quick stops at Lawrenceburg Bourbon Co, Four Roses, Woodford, and Castle & Key. We also enjoyed a private experience with David Meier at Glenns Creek Distilling and a bourbon thieving/blending experience at J. Mattingly 1845. Yes, we were a bit tired but excited about our visit because it had come so highly recommended.

As the name indicates, it is located in Old Louisville. As summarized from their Our Story page, the Old Louisville Whiskey Co. was founded by a husband-and-wife duo, Amine and Beth Karaoud, who are passionate about whiskey and their historic Louisville neighborhood. They sold properties including Red Castle Liquors to invest in their own Kentucky whiskey company. The brand is a labor of love, honoring the neighborhood’s rich history and Kentucky bourbon making tradition. Aged for a minimum of 7 years, their small-batch bourbon is a testament to their commitment to quality over quantity. Each bottle pays tribute to the historic neighborhood, celebrating tradition, history, and family. Supporting this local family-owned business means enjoying a drink that honors tradition and history.

Our Private Tour Experience

They currently offer one tour option – a private tour – described as: Come join us for a one of a kind bourbon tour experience. We will evaluate how bourbons are made and aged and how some are finished to create a one of a kind product. We will experience five different bourbons or whiskeys that we thief straight from the barrel. We will lastly offer the opportunity to bottle your own single barrel bourbon and each bottle will be hand labeled, giving your bourbon our personal touch.

As we followed the GPS, we weren’t sure where it was taking us. As we parked, we knew we were in the correct place based on the door design. We were the only car in the parking lot just before noon on a Saturday morning. We entered and it was quiet and we didn’t see anyone. A moment later, a very nice gentleman came out front to introduce himself. It was Amine, the owner. He apologized for keeping us waiting (it was less than a minute) and said they had quite a private event there the night before. We laughed and shared that we knew something about it from the Facebook posts of one of the Scotchy Bourbon Boys. That seemed to truly break the ice and Amine guided us to the back room. We were chatting and I did not take any pictures to start, but bellow are pictures from their website.

Amine explained the process. They source their whiskey and then focus on time and wood. How long does it need to marry with the wood to have the ideal maturation? Which wood will provide the most unique flavor profile? Should it be aged in one barrel and then finished in another? The options and combinations are endless.

Next, Amine shared the story behind each barrel. One by one we learned about the journey of the whiskey and the barrel(s), and then he thieved a sample for us to experience. This was repeated several times and we enjoyed each one. He even pulled samples from barrels “not quite ready” so we could see the difference. We had a great conversation throughout and could easily see his heart for this process and what was being created.

Ultimately, we selected whiskey from four barrels to be bottled. Amine thieved each one into their bottle and hand-wrote the label and/or details on the bottle. He also signed each bottle for us. It was a wonderful way to wrap up a fabulous three days and we are so grateful that we made the decision to experience Old Louisville Whiskey Co and get to know Amine.

*Great experience and now friends – Rebecca, Amine, and Wayne*

Comparison Tasting of Four Cask Strength Bottles

Bottle 1	Bottle 2	Bottle 3	Bottle 4
Mashbill: Unknown	Mashbill: 51% Corn, 45% Wheat, 4% Barley	Mashbill: 51% Corn, 49% Barley	Mashbill: 75% Corn, 21% Rye, 4% Barley
Proof: 119	Proof: 116.6	Proof: 114.2	Proof: 101
Age: NAS (typically at least 7 years)	Age: Barreled 04/2017, Bottled 02/2024	Age: NAS (typically at least 7 years)	Age: NAS (typically at least 7 years) Columbian Oak
Nose: Wayne > vanilla, caramel, smokey Rebecca > caramel, vanilla, pie cruse, baking spice	Nose: Wayne > wheat, bread like Rebecca > caramel, nuts, cherry, baking spices	Nose: Wayne > nutty, honey Rebecca > vanilla, oats, brown sugar	Nose: Wayne > vanilla cream, butterscotch, ginger Rebecca > caramel, cherry, marshmallow, cinnamon
Nose Rank: Wayne > 3 Rebecca > 4	Nose Rank: Preferred Wayne > 2 Rebecca > 2	Nose Rank: Wayne > 1 Rebecca > 3	Nose Rank: Wayne > 4 Rebecca > 1
Tasted Neat: Wayne > brown sugar, cinnamon; finish cinnamon and leather Rebecca > caramel, vanilla, pie cruse, baking spice, and oak; finish medium with cinnamon and black pepper	Tasted Neat: Wayne > wheat, cherry, baking spices; finish baking spices and pepper Rebecca > vanilla cream, hazelnut, cherry; finish medium with cinnamon	Tasted Neat: Wayne > nutty, honey, cinnamon; finish black pepper Rebecca > oatmeal with brown sugar, heavy cream, and a touch of cinnamon; finish medium cinnamon and pecan	Tasted Neat: Wayne > smokey, wood, cinnamon; finish light black pepper Rebecca > butterscotch, toasted marshmallow, plum; finish short with oak and nutmeg
Taste Rank: Wayne > 2 Rebecca > 3	Taste Rank: Wayne > 3 Rebecca > 2	Taste Rank: Preferred Wayne > 1 Rebecca > 1	Taste Rank: Wayne > 4 Rebecca > 4
Other Notes: Great bottle much like many bourbons that we enjoy.	Other Notes: Being wheated, a bit more time might really enhance it.	Other Notes: Very unique taste profile due to the 49% barley.	Other Notes: Perhaps it is the “lower” proof that kept this one from ranking higher. Still a great pour.

Discussion and Final Notes

As with any tasting, it is strictly opinion on a particular day. We each struggled with determining a ranking because there was something in each batch that we really enjoyed. Ultimately, it came down to what we enjoyed “most” at that moment in time. We could do this again next week or next month and have somewhat different results. This is one of the things that we truly appreciate about bourbon.

After the tasting, we headed to the patio for a cigar. Wayne selected Bottle 3 (51% Corn, 49% Barley) and a La Palina cigar. I selected Bottle 4 (75% Corn, 21% Rye, 4% Barley in Columbian Oak) and an Isla del Sol cigar. We each enjoyed our selections and felt they paired nicely.

**Rebecca: Bottle 4 with an Isla del Sol**

We really enjoyed spending the original time with Old Louisville Whiskey Co in February and revisiting “virtually” this past weekend through reminiscing and tasting the Straight Bourbon Whiskey that we purchased. We cannot say enough great things about Amine and what he and his wife are doing in this historic Louisville neighborhood. When you have an opportunity, taste what they are doing – better yet – plan a visit!

Cheers,
Rebecca

Photos by Rebecca Herman McBrayer (unless otherwise indicated)

Make the trip to Old Louisville Whiskey Co. 7.5 miles, less than 15 mins, from downtown Louisville, and a few miles from the Louisville International Airport.

Straight Bourbon Whiskey Spirit Requirements

Bourbon Whiskey – 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.

The bourbons 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.

July 2024 Booker’s 2024-01 & -02 Tasting

July 14, 2024November 8, 2024 / bourbonjourney / Leave a comment

July 14, 2024
By Rebecca Herman McBrayer

We picked up a bottle of the Booker’s 2024-01 Springfield Batch in April and enjoyed it so much that we needed to snag another one. Last month we were able to get a bottle of the Booker’s 2024-02 The Beam House Batch during a quick stop at the James B. Beam American Outpost. We have been wanting to try the latest one and decided that we might as well do a formal tasting of each.

The cards of the Batch Story and Master Distiller Notes are always fascinating for us; thus, sharing them below.

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

Booker’s 2024-01, Springfield Batch

Mashbill – 77% Corn, 13% Rye, 10% Malted Barley
Age – 7 years, 7 Months, 8 days
Other – Barrel-strength bourbon, bottled uncut and unfiltered
Proof – 124.5
Price Paid – $111.29 (with tax)

Appearance – Deep amber and with a lot of legs.

Aroma – Bold and spicy, brown sugar and vanilla, oak with a light smokiness.

Tasted Neat – The bold baking spices are noted immediately. It has the sweetness of brown sugar with hints of vanilla and a bit of nuttiness. A very nice and long finish of cinnamon spice, oak, and a hint of leather.

Tasted with dried cranberry – Interestingly, Wayne felt that the cranberry intensified the spiciness while I thought it made it smoother. There is definitely a dominate taste of cinnamon with the cranberry and the sweeter notes of brown sugar and vanilla disappeared.

Tasted with a pecan – The brown sugar returned with the addition of dark chocolate. The finish is medium with dark chocolate, cinnamon, oak, and leather.

Tasted with dark chocolate – This seems to have muted many of the flavors. Instead, there is a symphony of spices alternating and coming to life such as white, black, and red pepper as well a cinnamon. Very long finish of all things pepper.

Booker’s 2024-02, The Beam House Batch

Mashbill – 77% Corn, 13% Rye, 10% Malted Barley
Age – 7 years, 2 Months, 22 days
Other – Barrel-strength bourbon, bottled uncut and unfiltered
Proof – 126.4
Price Paid – $121.90 (with tax)

Appearance – Deep amber and with a lot of legs.

Aroma – Caramel, vanilla, peanuts, and apple.

Tasted Neat – The first thought is sweet. It tastes much like its nose with vanilla, caramel, peanuts, and apple. It is reminiscent of being at the fair and each a caramel apple rolled in crushed peanuts. The finish is long with cinnamon, apple, a hint of citrus, and lingering oak.

Tasted with dried cranberry – The caramel is gone but the apple is more present and the cinnamon is gentle on the finish.

Tasted with a pecan – This really enhance the oak flavors and brought some baking spices toward the front of the palate. The caramel apple is there but it seems to be sprinkled with cinnamon. The finish is very woody.

Tasted with dark chocolate – The sweetness is now muted and black pepper and a stronger cinnamon have taken the place of the caramel apple. The finish continues to be oaky but with enhanced spices.

Discussion and Final Notes

Springfield Batch and Beam House Batch couldn’t be more different on the nose and palate when you consider they are the same mashbill, by the same distiller, similar age, similar proof, etc. Again, this is one of the many things that we love about bourbon!

We love the brown sugar, cinnamon and leather notes in the Springfield Batch. However, we also find the caramel apple and crushed peanuts of the Beam House Batch to be quite tasty.

Springfield provides a rather “traditional” Booker’s experience of a bold flavor profile yet with the sweet notes that we have come to expect in a great bourbon. While Beam House Batch is certainly from the same family, it has a sweeter profile than typically expected and with the addition of apple.

For us, we are big fans of Booker’s and appreciate what Fred Noe does to curate the best barrels for each batch to tell a special story. These are no different. As is common for us, we try to buy and have a back-up bottle of each batch. That is our recommendation for Springfield and Beam House. Find them while they are available as they will be great additions for your collection.

Cheers,
Rebecca & Wayne

Photos by Rebecca Herman McBrayer

Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey Spirit Requirements

Bourbon Whiskey: 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.

For additional information on bourbon requirements, please read this post – Bourbon Whiskey.

NOTE: The bourbons 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.

Your Bourbon Journey

Embracing the Craft

Uncategorized

August 2024 Shenk’s & Bomberger’s Tasting

August 2024 Louisville, Chocolate, and Bourbon – Oh My!

August 2024 Farmer & Frenchman Green River Dinner Pairing

July 2024 Bardstown Collection BBC Tasting

July 2024 Industry Highlights

July 2024 Evan Williams 23 Year Old Tasting

July 2024 Middle West Spirits Dark Pumpernickel Rye Tasting

July 2024 Wild Turkey Triumph Tasting

Old Louisville Whiskey Co Visit & Tasting

July 2024 Booker’s 2024-01 & -02 Tasting