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Hartfield & Co Distillery: A Hidden Kentucky Gem

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Bourbon Trail Tales & Tastes Episode 35 – Hartfield & Co Distillery

Get ready for an adventure down the Kentucky Bourbon Trail as we revisit a nice stop in Paris, KY in April 2023.  In this episode, we’re taking you back to our very first visit to Hartfield & Co Distillery which was our 40th distillery and our 32nd stamp in our Kentucky Bourbon Trail Book!

Join us as we relive every moment from our initial tour of the Hartfield & Co Distillery. But the excitement doesn’t stop there! We’ll then uncork a bottle of their Pre-Prohibition Style Bourbon Whiskey  for an in-depth tasting. What hidden notes and unique flavors await us in this one-of-a-kind pour? 

Click play ▶️ now to join the adventure!

Join the YBJ Family! 

👍 Like this video if you’re a bourbon lover! 

💬 Comment below with your favorite Hartfield & Co whiskey! 

➡️ Share this video with a fellow whiskey fan! 

🔔 Subscribe to Your Bourbon Journey for weekly whiskey adventures you won’t want to miss!

********

What’s a bourbon trail journey without a good story? 🥃 Welcome to Bourbon Trail Tales & Tastes, where we dive into the unforgettable moments and hidden gems we discovered while exploring Kentucky’s iconic trail. Join us as we uncork the profound memories that have stayed with us long after the last pour. We’ll revisit the unexpected finds and the bottles that truly surprised us with their exceptional, intricate flavors. So, what stood out as the most memorable sip, and how have those experiences shaped our palates today? Get ready for a passionate retelling of the adventures, the connections, and the spirits that make the Bourbon Trail so much more than just a destination.

#bourbonreview  #KentuckyBourbonTrail #Hartfield 

Learn more about Hartfield & Co: https://www.hartfieldandcompany.com/home

❌YOUR BOURBON JOURNEY DOES NOT SELL ALCOHOL❌

ABOUT THE BOTTLE REVIEWED

✴️ Pre-Prohibition Style Bourbon Whiskey

  • Classification: Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
  • Distillery: Hartfield & Co.
  • Mash Bill: 62% Corn, 19% Rye, 19% Malted Barley
  • Age: NAS – typically 1-2 years in 5- and 30-gallon barrels
  • Proof: 100
  • Other: 2-3 batches a year that are a blend of 30-40 barrels
  • Purchased: 04/15/23 for $50.00 at Hartfield & Co Distillery

❌YOUR BOURBON JOURNEY DOES NOT SELL ALCOHOL❌

🚨REMEMBER TO ALWAYS DRINK RESPONSIBLY🚨

✅ Please SUBSCRIBE and hit the LIKE button!

❓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.

Bourbon & Whiskey News: August 2025

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09/01/25
Curated by Rebecca Herman McBrayer

Bourbon & Whiskey Industry Highlights from August 2025 >> 54 Stories!

In August 2025, the bourbon and whiskey industry faced significant challenges, particularly with Gen Z’s disinterest and bankruptcies among distilleries. Despite a turbulent market, experts suggested a potential long-term recovery. Numerous distillery developments and new bottle releases continued to unfold, highlighting resilience amidst adversity.

Industry Market News & Related Announcements >> 7 Stories

08/05: Kentucky’s $9B whiskey industry in crisis as Gen Z drinkers shun bourbon, tariffs take toll

08/05: Kentucky whiskey bankruptcies: Which distilleries are broke, and why

08/06: One of the World’s Biggest Spirits Companies Just Saw Its Profits Drop 28%

08/08: What Happens After a Whisky Cask Investment Company Goes Under?

08/19: InvestBev Calls Bourbon Market Adjustment a Healthy Reset — Long-Term Growth Story Remains Intact

08/22: KDA statement on return to zero tariffs on bourbon in Canada

08/26: InvestBev Founder, Brian Rosen, Asserts Trade Headwinds Cannot Derail America’s Native Spirit

Distillery News >> 13 Stories

08/01: One of America’s Biggest Whiskey Distilleries Has Seen Its Sales Plummet

08/04: Multimillion-dollar lawsuit filed against whiskey distiller Uncle Nearest

08/04: Uncle Nearest hit by $100m lawsuit

08/05: Fawn Weaver responds to lawsuit with ‘Operation Clear the Shelves’ campaign

08/05: Bourdon Spirits Company Acquires Copper & Kings from Constellation Brands

08/06: Multiple Kentucky Whiskey Distilleries File for Bankruptcy

08/12: Pursuit Spirits to Open Whiskey Row Location Aug. 14

08/12: Mixologist Molly Wellmann joins Kentucky distillery in new role

08/13: Buffalo Trace’s First-Ever Restaurant Will Serve Lunch, Cocktails, and Kentucky Charm

08/14: RD1 Spirits Ranks No. 1 in Kentucky, No. 280 Nationally on the Inc. 5000 List of America’s Fastest-Growing Private Companies

08/15: Fawn Weaver loses control of Uncle Nearest

08/21: Middle West Spirits appoints former Old Elk lead as CCO

08/26: Ole Smoky Distillery Appoints Michael Novy Chief Executive Officer

Distillery Trail >> 2 Stories

08/12: Kentucky Bourbon Trail Experts Josh and Victoria Hoff of WhiskMe Transportation Share Trip Planning Advice in HelloNation

08/26: The Trail Hotel Joins Kentucky Bourbon Trail

Awards Announced >> 7 Stories

08/06: The American Whiskey Masters 2025 results

08/10: Top 5 Whiskies In The World From The International Whisky Competition 2025

08/16: The Best American Single Malt Whiskey, According To The Beverage Testing Institute

08/20: America’s Best Rye Whiskey, According To The Beverage Testing Institute

08/20: Indiana Distillery Earns Prestigious Honor During Heartland Whiskey Competition

08/26: In Era of Evolution, Michter’s Retains its Crown as World’s Most Admired Whiskey

08/26: AMERICAN DISTILLING INSTITUTE NAMES SOUTHERN DISTILLING COMPANY ‘2025 DISTILLERY OF THE YEAR’

Bourbon Festival News & Updates >> 1 Story

08/06: Cheers to 35 years: Kentucky Bourbon Festival announces 2026 dates

Bottle Releases >> 23 Stories

08/04: Heaven Hill Distillery Announces 2025 Parker’s Heritage Collection Limited Edition Bottling

08/04: Jack Daniel’s Announces Launch of Tennessee Blackberry

08/04: A. Smith Bowman Abraham Bowman Oak Series Hungarian Oak

08/05: Garrison Brothers Distillery Releases Rare 8-Year Whiskey

08/06: Cedar Ridge Releases Anniversary Edition Bourbon

08/08: New Riff Revives Award-Winning Red Turkey Wheat Bourbon

08/08: One of Heaven Hill’s Most Collectible Whiskeys, Old Fitzgerald VVS, Is Back—and We Got a First Taste

08/13: Rhythm River Distillery’s new bourbon hitting store shelves on Thursday

08/14: Woodford Reserve Releases New Distillery Series: Its First American Single Malt

08/17: Taste Test: This Indiana Craft Distillery’s New Bourbon Shows How Good Hoosier Whiskey Can Be

08/18: Remus Repeal Reserve Series IX launches in tribute to Prohibition’s end

08/18: Old Forester’s Beloved Birthday Bourbon 2025: 12 years old, 92 proof and sweet mash

08/19: Maker’s Mark Cellar Aged Returns in 2025 – A Masterful Blend of the Brand’s Oldest Bourbons

08/19: FOUR ROSES SET TO LAUNCH 2025 LIMITED EDITION SMALL BATCH ON SEPTEMBER 3

08/19: Michter’s Continues Its Toasted Barrel Finish Series With Launch of 2025 Michter’s US*1 Toasted Barrel Finish Sour Mash

08/19: Buzzard’s Roost Distillery Introduces New Cigar Blend Bourbon

08/19: Blue Run Spirits Unveils “Glimmer” — A Kentucky Straight Bourbon Finished in Gin Barrels

08/21: Penelope Bourbon introduces the 2025 Estate Collection

08/22: Baker’s Bourbon Releases Limited 13 Year Old Single Barrel

08/26: Bardstown Bourbon Reveals 2025 Annual Releases: Discovery #13 & Ferrand II

08/27: Pursuit Spirits Releases Highly Limited Old Anvil Bourbon

08/27: Union Horse Distilling Co. Announces Year-Round Release of Bottled-in-Bond Straight Bourbon Whiskey to Their Stable of Brands

08/28: Heaven Hill Distillery Debuts Artist Series Collection for Heaven Hill Bottled-in-Bond Featuring Kentucky Artist Bri Bowers

Book Releases >> 1 Preview

Expected 09/09: The Whiskey Bible: A Definitive Guide to the World’s Most Storied Spirit” by Noah Rothbaum

Blind Taste Test: August’s Whiskey of the Month!  

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🔥🥃 Blind Whiskey BATTLE ROYALE! Who Will Be Our August 2025 CHAMPION?! 🏆

Alright, buckle up, whiskey fanatics! 🚀 Get ready for a showdown of EPIC proportions! 🥃 In this thrilling blind tasting adventure, we’re putting FOUR incredible contenders head-to-head to crown the UNDISPUTED champion of our August 2025 whiskey lineup! 👑

Prepare your senses for an immersive journey into the captivating aromas and tantalizing flavors of these contenders (alphabetical order):

  • Bomberger’s Declaration 2025
  • Green River Wheated Bourbon Single Barrel
  • Lineage Batch 2
  • Neeley Bottled in Bond Four Grain

🚫 No labels, no biases – just pure, unadulterated whiskey appreciation! 👀 Join us as we meticulously nose 👃, sip 😋, and savor each dram, dissecting the intricate notes on the nose, the delightful dance on the palate 👅, the satisfying lingering finish ✨, and that crucial je ne sais quoi that makes a whiskey truly special. 🤔

Will the barrel-proof powerhouse 💪 dominate the competition? Will the elegantly aged spirit ⏳ steal the show? Or will a unique finish 🍇 or a captivating single barrel charm ✨ take home the ultimate crown? We’re ranking them from 4th place to the coveted 1st place spot🥇, and the suspense is building with every sip! 🤯

Smash that play button ▶️ and join the ultimate tasting party!

🎉 Grab your own glass 🥂 (of whatever you’re sipping on!), settle in for some serious whiskey talk 🗣️, and experience the thrill of the grand reveal with us! Get ready for potential surprises 🎁 and definitely a fantastic time! Cheers to an unforgettable evening of delicious discovery! 🥳 Sláinte! 🍀

#WhiskeyOfTheMonth #BlindWhiskeyTasting #bourbonreview 

❌YOUR BOURBON JOURNEY DOES NOT SELL ALCOHOL❌

🔥DETAILS REGARDING OUR FOUR FINALISTS🔥 (in alphabetical order): 

✴️ Bomberger’s Declaration 2025

  • Classification: Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
  • Company: Michter’s Distillery
  • Distillery: Michter’s Fort Nelson
  • Mash Bill: Undisclosed but likely high corn plus rye and malted barley
  • Age: NAS (at least 4 years)
  • Proof: 108
  • MSRP: $120
  • Released: July 2025
  • Specifics: Batch 25F1978, Bottle 1436 of 2673
  • Other: Aged in Chinquapin Oak. This year’s release utilizes barrels seasoned for different periods (18 months, 3, 4, and 5 years) before toasting and charring.
  • Purchased: 07/18/25 for $129 at Michter’s Fort Nelson

✴️ Green River Wheated Bourbon Single Barrel

  • Classification: Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
  • Company: Bardstown Bourbon Co.
  • Distillery: Green River Distilling Co.
  • Mash Bill: 70% Corn, 21% Wheat, 9% Malted Barley
  • Age: NAS (5 years per website)
  • Proof: 117.6
  • MSRP: $60
  • Other: “Home Wheat Home”
  • Purchased: 07/18/25 for $59.99 at Green River Tasting Room, Louisville KY

✴️ Lineage Batch 2

  • Classification: Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
  • Company: Suntory Global Spirits
  • Distillery: Booker Noe Plant
  • Mash Bill: 77% corn, 13% rye, and 10% malted barley
  • Age: 15-year-old (blend of 15 and 20-year-old bourbons)
  • Proof: 111
  • MSRP: $250 (700 ml)
  • Released: 07/18/25
  • Other: Crafted in collaboration by Fred & Freddie Noe
  • Purchased: 07/18/25 for $250 at the Jim Beam Distillery 

✴️ Neeley Bottled in Bond Four Grain

  • Classification: Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
  • Distillery: Neeley Family Distillery
  • Mash Bill: 63% corn, 17% Oats, 8% Wheat and 12% Malt
  • Notes: Jug Yeast A-1, Sweet Mash, Copper Pot Still, Non-Chill Filtered, Limestone Well Water, Cypress Fermented, Barrel Char 2, Batch Size 7
  • Age: 4 Years
  • Proof: 100
  • MSRP: $79.99
  • Released: Spring 2025
  • Made with no enzymes, blended by Rebekah Neeley
  • Purchased: 07/11/25 for $79.99 at Neely Family Distillery in Sparta, KY

❌YOUR BOURBON JOURNEY DOES NOT SELL ALCOHOL❌

🚨REMEMBER TO ALWAYS DRINK RESPONSIBLY🚨

✅ Please SUBSCRIBE and hit the LIKE button!

❓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.

J. Rieger & Co.: From Prohibition to Modern Icon

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Step into the rich history and modern revival of Kansas City whiskey with us! In this video, we’re diving deep into J. Rieger & Co., a legendary distillery with a story that spans over a century. We’ll explore their stunning, historic facility and get to the heart of what makes their spirits so unique.

First, we’re tasting three incredible spirits:

✴️ J. Rieger & Co. Monogram Whiskey 2025 Edition: This exclusive Kansas City Whiskey Solera Reserve is a limited-edition blend with a complex mash bill of 56% corn, 30% rye, and 14% malted barley. Bottled at 100 proof, only 2,000 of these special releases were produced.

✴️ J. Rieger & Co. Private Stock Bourbon: We got to bottle our own! This straight bourbon whiskey has an age statement of 5 years and 8 months, with a mash bill of 56% corn, 30% rye, and 14% malted barley. It was bottled at a robust 127.9 proof.

✴️ J. Rieger & Co. Caffè Amaro: An innovative blend of coffee liqueur and amaro, this spirit is made with Sumatra coffee and clocks in at 62 proof.

But it’s not all about the whiskey! We’ll also be giving you a tour of the distillery’s stunning space, and you’ll get to see the famous distillery slide in action. You don’t want to miss our visit to this amazing Kansas City landmark!

Follow us on our Kansas City Whiskey tour! This is the third in a four-part series exploring the best of the Kansas City spirits scene. Click play ▶️ NOW!

What’s your favorite state for bourbon outside of Kentucky? Let us know in the comments below! 👇

Join the YBJ Family! 

  • 👍 Like this video if you’re a bourbon lover! 
  • 💬 Comment below with your favorite Kansas City whiskey! 
  • ➡️ Share this video with a fellow whiskey fan! 
  • 🔔 Subscribe to Your Bourbon Journey for weekly whiskey adventures you won’t want to miss!
  • Let’s build a community of enthusiasts who appreciate the art of exceptional bourbon! 

#bourbonreview #KansasCityWhiskey #JRieger 

J. Rieger & Co. Website: https://www.jriegerco.com/

❌YOUR BOURBON JOURNEY DOES NOT SELL ALCOHOL❌

✴️ Monogram Whiskey 2025 Edition

  • Kansas City Whiskey Solera Reserve
  • Distillery: J. Rieger & Co.
  • Bourbon Mash Bill: 56 Corn, 30% Rye, 14% Malted Barley
  • Rye Mash Bill: 96% Rye, 4% Malted Barley
  • Proof: 100
  • Other: 2000 bottles produced
  • Purchased: 07/25/25 for $130 at J. Rieger & Co

 Visit their site for details on the Oloroso sherry botas: https://www.jriegerco.com/our-spirits/monogram-whiskey

✴️ Private Stock Bourbon

  • Rieger Straight Bourbon Whiskey
  • Distillery: J. Rieger & Co.
  • Mash Bill: 56 Corn, 30% Rye, 14% Malted Barley
  • Sweet Mash Fermentation; pot still and column still
  • Age: 5 Years, 8 Months
  • Proof: 127.9
  • Other: Bottle-Your-Own Experience
  • Purchased: 07/25/25 for $85 at J. Rieger & Co

✴️ Caffè Amaro

  • Coffee Liqueur & Amaro
  • Distillery: J. Rieger & Co.
  • Coffee: Sumatra
  • Sweetener: Evaporated Cane Syrup
  • Proof: 62
  • Purchased: 07/25/25 for $32 at J. Rieger & Co

❌YOUR BOURBON JOURNEY DOES NOT SELL ALCOHOL❌

🚨REMEMBER TO ALWAYS DRINK RESPONSIBLY🚨

✅ Please SUBSCRIBE and hit the LIKE button!

❓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.

Holladay’s Ancient Cave: Unique Bourbon Review

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The Oldest Distillery West of the Mississippi?! | Holladay Distillery Ancient Cave Wave Stave 2025 Review

We’re taking you on a journey to the heart of American distilling history! Join us as we visit Holladay Distillery in Weston, Missouri—the oldest continuously operating distillery west of the Mississippi River. This landmark, founded in 1856 by the legendary “Stagecoach King” Ben Holladay, has a rich legacy of crafting Real Missouri Bourbon.

In this video, we’re unboxing a truly unique and hard-to-find bottle: the Holladay Ancient Cave Wave Stave 2025. This distillery-exclusive, 7-year-old bourbon is finished in a special “Wave Stave” barrel within the distillery’s historic “Ancient Cave.” Does this one-of-a-kind aging process create a whiskey worth the hype? Watch our full review to find out!

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

We highly recommend that you add Holladay Distillery in Weston MO to Your Bourbon Journey!

What’s your favorite state for bourbon outside of Kentucky? Let us know in the comments below! 👇

Are you a true bourbon fanatic, always on the hunt for the next exceptional pour? Then smash that like button 👍 to show your appreciation for fine whiskey! Hit subscribe 🔔 so you never miss our reviews of rare and remarkable spirits, and share this video ➡️ with your fellow whiskey lovers. Let’s build a community of enthusiasts who appreciate the art of exceptional bourbon! 

#bourbonreview #HolladayDistillery #AncientCave 

For more information on Holladay Distillery: https://holladaydistillery.com/

❌YOUR BOURBON JOURNEY DOES NOT SELL ALCOHOL❌

✴️ Ancient Cave Collection Wave Stave 2025

  • Classification:  Missouri Straight Bourbon Whiskey
  • Distillery: Holladay Distillery
  • Mash Bill: 1856 Original – 73% Corn, 15% Rye, 12% Malted Barley
  • Age: 7 years, 5 months
  • Finishing: American Oak, Med+ Toast, Char 1, Wave Stave
  • Proof: 100
  • Other: 375 ml bottle
  • Purchased: 07/24/25 for $44.99 at Holladay Distillery

❌YOUR BOURBON JOURNEY DOES NOT SELL ALCOHOL❌

🚨REMEMBER TO ALWAYS DRINK RESPONSIBLY🚨

✅ Please SUBSCRIBE and hit the LIKE button!

❓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.

July’s Whiskey of the Month! 

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🔥🥃 Blind Whiskey BATTLE ROYALE! Who Will Be Our July 2025 CHAMPION?! 🏆

Alright, buckle up, whiskey fanatics! 🚀 Get ready for a showdown of EPIC proportions! 🥃 In this thrilling blind tasting adventure, we’re putting FOUR incredible contenders head-to-head to crown the UNDISPUTED champion of our July 2025 whiskey lineup! 👑

Prepare your senses for an immersive journey into the captivating aromas and tantalizing flavors of these contenders (alphabetical order):

  • ✴️ Booker’s 2025-02 “By the Pond” Batch
  • ✴️ Maker’s Mark Keepers Release
  • ✴️ Penelope: Cigar Sessions – Chapter 1
  • ✴️ W.H. McBrayer 2025 Release, Batch 5

🚫 No labels, no biases – just pure, unadulterated whiskey appreciation! 👀 Join us as we meticulously nose 👃, sip 😋, and savor each dram, dissecting the intricate notes on the nose, the delightful dance on the palate 👅, the satisfying lingering finish ✨, and that crucial je ne sais quoi that makes a whiskey truly special. 🤔

Will the barrel-proof powerhouse 💪 dominate the competition? Will the elegantly aged spirit ⏳ steal the show? Or will a unique finish 🍇 or a captivating single barrel charm ✨ take home the ultimate crown? We’re ranking them from 4th place to the coveted 1st place spot🥇, and the suspense is building with every sip! 🤯

Smash that play button ▶️ and join the ultimate tasting party! 🎉 Grab your own glass 🥂 (of whatever you’re sipping on!), settle in for some serious whiskey talk 🗣️, and experience the thrill of the grand reveal with us! Get ready for potential surprises 🎁 and definitely a fantastic time! Cheers to an unforgettable evening of delicious discovery! 🥳 Sláinte! 🍀

#WhiskeyOfTheMonth #BlindWhiskeyTasting #bourbonreview 

Half Way – 2025 Whiskey of the Year Preview:

❌YOUR BOURBON JOURNEY DOES NOT SELL ALCOHOL❌

🔥DETAILS REGARDING OUR FOUR FINALISTS🔥 (in alphabetical order): 

✴️ Booker’s 2025-02 “By the Pond” Batch

  • Classification: Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
  • Company: Beam Suntory
  • Distillery: Jim Beam Distillery
  • Mash Bill: 77% Corn, 13% Rye, 10% Malted Barley
  • Age: 7 years, 1 month, and 20 days
  • Proof: 126.5
  • Blend: This particular batch is a complex blend of barrels from various locations within 8 different warehouses. The largest percentage (29%) came from the sixth floor of warehouse G at Waterfill, a seven-story warehouse.
  • MSRP: $100
  • Released: June 2025
  • Purchased: 07/03/25 for $110 at Archie & Clyde’s Restaurant in Newburgh IN
  • Original YouTube Review:

✴️ Maker’s Mark Keepers Release

  • Classification: Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
  • Company: 
  • Distillery: Maker’s Mark
  • Mash Bill: 70% Corn, 16% Wheat, 14% Malted Barley
  • Age: NAS (about 6 years)
  • Proof: 109.2
  • MSRP: $74.99
  • Released: March 2025
  • Purchased: 05/01/25 for $74.99 at Maker’s Mark Distillery
  • Original YouTube Review:  

✴️ Penelope: Cigar Sessions – Chapter 1

  • Classification: American Whiskey
  • Distillery: Ross & Squibb Distillery (MGP)
  • Blend: Straight Bourbon, American Single Malt, and American Light Whiskey
  • Bourbon: 72% Corn, 15% Rye, 13% Malted Barley; Non Chill-Filtered; Finished with French Oak Staves
  • Age: 6
  • Proof: 101
  • MSRP: 79.99
  • Released: June 2025
  • Other: Pair with medium-bodied cigars
  • Purchased: 06/13/25 for $192.27 at High Spirits Liquor Store, Evansville IN
  • Original YouTube Review:  

✴️ W.H. McBrayer 2025 Release, Batch 5

  • Classification: Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
  • Company: McBrayer Legacy Spirits
  • Distillery: Undisclosed
  • Mash Bill: 88.4% Bloody Butcher Corn, 5.8% Heritage Rye, 5.8% Malted Barley
  • Age: NAS; blend of 15 barrels – 8 are 6.5 years old and 7 are 5.5 years old
  • Proof: 106.8
  • MSRP: $100
  • Other: Small Batch (15 hand-selected barrels), Non-Chill Filtered
  • Released: May 10, 2025
  • Purchased: 05/10/25 for $100 at McBrayer Legacy Spirits
  • Original YouTube Review:  

❌YOUR BOURBON JOURNEY DOES NOT SELL ALCOHOL❌

🚨REMEMBER TO ALWAYS DRINK RESPONSIBLY🚨

✅ Please SUBSCRIBE and hit the LIKE button!

❓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.

Bourbon & Whiskey News: July 2025

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08/01/25
Curated by Rebecca Herman McBrayer

Bourbon & Whiskey Industry Highlights from July 2025 >> 36 Stories!

In July 2025, the bourbon and whiskey industry experienced notable growth, driven by rising global demand. Key highlights included Heritage Distilling’s 34% surge, new facility announcements, and various distillery news. Innovations included whiskey releases and accolades, underscoring the sector’s vitality and ongoing expansion.

Industry Market News & Related Announcements >> 5 Stories

07/03: Rising Alcoholic Beverage Consumption Fuels Expansion Of The Whiskey Warehousing Market: Core Growth Enabler in the Whiskey Warehousing Market, 2025

07/03: Whiskey Market to Reach $123 Billion by 2034 Amid Rising Global Demand for Premium Spirits

07/11: Heritage Distilling Soars 34%—What’s Fueling the Whiskey Surge?

07/14: Kentucky biotech firm to build $40M facility in Franklin County to repurpose bourbon byproduct

07/17: Flavored Whiskey Market Outlook 2025–2035 | Growth & Trends

Distillery News >> 8 Stories

07/01: Cincinnati distillery listed for sale

07/01: J. Mattingly 1845 to Purchase Founder’s Ownership Equity

07/02: Three Chord Bourbon Appoints Michael Nanula as Chief Executive Officer

07/02: The Woman Behind the Whiskey: Meet Jefferson’s Bourbon’s Master Blender Ale Ochoa

07/18: Newly built Kentucky craft distillery files for bankruptcy protection

07/19: MGP Ingredients: Navigating A Sharp Whiskey Production Slump

07/29: KDA advances Jackson Purchase Distillery to Heritage Member Status

07/30: Wenzel Whiskey opens Covington distillery, breathing new life into historic building

Distillery Trail >> 2 Stories

07/:18: 9 Picture-Perfect Main Streets In Kentucky

07/21: Need an excuse for a trip to Maker’s Mark? Chihuly exhibit is back and bolder

Awards Announced >> 2 Stories

07/27: The Best American Single Malts According to the IWC 2025

07/30: This Kentucky brand was named Distillery of the Year at New Orleans Spirits Competition

Bourbon Festival News & Updates >> 2 Stories

04/23: Kentucky Bourbon Festival Sold Out – Waitlist Option

07/31: American Whiskey Festival Set to Return Aug. 16

Bottle Releases >> 17 Stories

07/01: KENTUCKY OWL Releases Batch #13 Bourbon

07/02: One of Texas’s Best Distilleries Is Dropping a Cask-Strength Version of Its Port-Finished Bourbon

07/06: Michter’s releases two legacy whiskeys packed with flavor and heritage

07/08: Uncle Nearest Drops 2025 Master Blend Edition – Crowned World’s Best Bourbon

07/08: Bardstown Bourbon’s Distillery Reserve returns with Hokkaido Mizunara Oak

07/08: Three Chord Bourbon Unleashes Vol 2, A New Look That Underscores Its Roots in Music

07/08: Booker’s Bourbon Launches A New Batch Inspired By Sunny Kentucky Days By The Pond

07/09: BUFFALO TRACE DISTILLERY REVIVES AN ORIGINAL 19TH-CENTURY RECIPE WITH THE RELEASE OF COLONEL E.H. TAYLOR’S DISTILLER’S COUNCIL

07/10: Starlight Distillery Releases First 10-Year Bourbon

07/10: Rebel bourbon announces annual release of 10-year single barrel

07/10: WHEEL HORSE WHISKEY LAUNCHES BARREL MASTER SELECT SERIES WITH 5-YEAR BARREL PROOF BOURBON

07/14: Frey Ranch Releases Five Grain Single Barrel Bourbon

07/15: Old Grand-Dad unveils 7YO bonded Bourbon

07/16: A fan favorite returns: Old Forester 1910 Extra Extra Old

07/17: Jim Beam Lineage Batch #2 Launches as Distillery Exclusive

07/25: Buffalo Trace Reveals Weller 18, Weller Millennium

07/31: Jim Beam Releases New Sunshine Blend

Book Releases >> 1 Preview

Expected 09/09: The Whiskey Bible: A Definitive Guide to the World’s Most Storied Spirit” by Noah Rothbaum

Blind Tasting: Who Wins Whiskey of the Quarter!

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Alright, buckle up, whiskey lovers! 🥃 Get ready for a showdown of EPIC proportions! 🔥 In this blind tasting adventure, we’re putting three incredible contenders to the ultimate test to crown the UNDISPUTED CHAMPION 🏆 of our Second Quarter 2025! 🎉

Prepare your senses as we dive deep into the aromatic world 👃 and tantalizing flavors 😋 of:

🐅Orphan Barrel Fanged Pursuit Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey 

🌟Star Hill Farm American Wheat Whisky

🦃Wild Turkey 101 8-Year Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey

No labels, no biases – just pure, unadulterated whiskey appreciation! 👀 Join us as we meticulously nose, sip, and savor each dram, dissecting the nose 👃, the dance on the palate 👅, the lingering finish ✨, and that all-important je ne sais quoi. 🤔

Will the barrel proof powerhouse 💪 dominate? Will the aged elegance 👑 steal the show? Or will a unique finish or single barrel charm ✨ take the crown? We’re ranking them from 3rd place🥉 to the coveted 1st place spot🥇, and the suspense is BUILDING! 🤩 The results will be used for seeding in our Whiskey of the Year competition! 🏆

🎉 Grab your own glass 🥃 (of whatever you fancy! 😉), settle in 🛋️, and experience the thrill of the reveal with us. Get ready for some serious whiskey talk 🗣️, maybe a few surprises 😮, and definitely a good time! 😄 Cheers to an unforgettable evening of delicious discovery!

Hit play ▶️ and join the tasting party!

Don’t forget to subscribe! 👍 and let us know in the comments below 👇 which whiskey YOU thought would win! 🤔💬

#BlindWhiskeyTasting #bourbonreview #WhiskeyOfTheQuarter 

❌YOUR BOURBON JOURNEY DOES NOT SELL ALCOHOL❌

🔥DETAILS REGARDING OUR THREE FINALISTS🔥 (in alphabetical order): 

✴️ Orphan Barrel Fanged Pursuit

  • Classification: Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
  • Company: Diageo
  • Distillery: Sourced from an undisclosed Kentucky
  • Mash Bill: 68-74% Corn, 18-22% Rye, 8-10% Malted Barley
  • Age: 17 Years
  • Proof: 92
  • MSRP: $200
  • Released: February 2025
  • Purchased: 03/13/25 for $200.00 at Archie & Clyde’s Restaurant Newburgh Indiana

Original YouTube Review: 

✴️ Star Hill Farm Whisky 2025

  • Classification: American Wheat Whisky
  • Company: Star Hill Farm
  • Distillery: Maker’s Mark Distillery
  • Mash Bill: Blend of two: 70% Soft Red Winter Wheat & 30% Malted Barley; and 100% Malted Soft Red Winter Wheat
  • Age: 7-8 Years
  • Proof: 114.7
  • MSRP: $100
  • Released: May 2025
  • Other: First new mashbill in 70 years
  • Purchased: 05/16/28 for $100 at Maker’s Mark Distillery

Original YouTube Review:

✴️ Wild Turkey 101 8 Year

  • Classification: Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
  • Company: Campari Group
  • Distillery: Wild Turkey Distillery
  • Mash Bill: 75% Corn, 13% Rye, 12% Malted Barley
  • Age: 8 Year minimum
  • Proof: 101
  • MSRP: $45
  • Released: April 2025
  • Purchased: 04/25/25 for $42.99 at Beverage Barn in Henderson, KY

Original YouTube Review:

❌YOUR BOURBON JOURNEY DOES NOT SELL ALCOHOL❌

🚨REMEMBER TO ALWAYS DRINK RESPONSIBLY🚨

✅ Please SUBSCRIBE and hit the LIKE button!

❓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.

Dusty Barn Distillery: An Indiana Bourbon Discovery!

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Bourbon Trail Tales & Tastes Episode 27: Dusty Barn Distillery

Get ready to journey back with us as we relive our unforgettable first visit to Dusty Barn Distillery! From the rustic charm of their grounds to the passion poured into every barrel, we’re taking you behind the scenes of what makes this hidden gem so special.

But that’s not all! The main event kicks off with a live, unscripted tasting of a truly unique bottle we snagged during our visit: Doc’s Single Barrel Bourbon Whiskey. What rare and delightful notes will we uncover in this one-of-a-kind pour? Will it be a smoky whisper, a sweet serenade, or something entirely unexpected? 

Click play ▶️ now to find out!

Join the YBJ Family & Keep the Bourbon Journey Going!

Loved this episode and ready to dive deeper into the world of whiskey? Become part of the Your Bourbon Journey (YBJ) family and never miss a sip!

  • 👍 Like this video if you’re as excited as we are about uncovering new distilleries and unique bourbons!
  • 💬 Comment below with your thoughts on Dusty Barn Distillery or what you thought of our Doc’s Single Barrel tasting. We love hearing from you!
  • ➡️ Share this video with your fellow bourbon enthusiasts and spread the word about Your Bourbon Journey!
  • 🔔 Subscribe to Your Bourbon Journey and hit that notification bell 🔔 so you’re always in the loop for our weekly bourbon adventures, tasting notes, and distillery tours!

What’s your favorite hidden gem on the Bourbon Trail? Let us know in the comments!

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.

#bourbontrail #IndianaDistillery #DustyBarnDistillery 

Dusty Barn Distillery

❌YOUR BOURBON JOURNEY DOES NOT SELL ALCOHOL❌

ABOUT THE BOTTLE REVIEWED

✴️ Doc’s Single Barrel Bourbon Whiskey

  • Classification: Bourbon Whiskey
  • Distillery: Dusty Barn Distillery
  • Mash Bill: 70% Corn, Rye, Malted Barley
  • Age: 18 Months
  • Proof: 106.8
  • Other: Batch WSBI, Single Barrel, Cask Strength
  • Purchased: 12/31/22 for $110 at Dusty Barn Distillery

❌YOUR BOURBON JOURNEY DOES NOT SELL ALCOHOL❌

🚨REMEMBER TO ALWAYS DRINK RESPONSIBLY🚨

✅ Please SUBSCRIBE and hit the LIKE button!

❓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.

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!

Passionate about bourbon and exceptional whiskey? Hit that LIKE 👍 and SUBSCRIBE 🔔 so you never miss our deep dives into the most exciting new releases! Share this with your bourbon buddies and let’s celebrate the art of fine spirits together! Cheers to rare finds and unforgettable pours! 🥂

#ryewhiskeyreview  #LimitedRelease, #OldForester117SeriesRye

❌YOUR BOURBON JOURNEY DOES NOT SELL ALCOHOL❌

✴️ 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❌

🚨REMEMBER TO ALWAYS DRINK RESPONSIBLY🚨

✅ Please SUBSCRIBE and hit the LIKE button!

❓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.