Barrel House Distilling: Tour, Tasting & Honest Review

September 16, 2025September 16, 2025 / bourbonjourney / Leave a comment

Bourbon Trail Tales & Tastes Episode 37 – Barrel House Distilling Co

Get ready for an adventure down the Kentucky Bourbon Trail as we revisit a nice stop in Lexington, Kentucky in April 2023. In this episode, we’re taking you back to our very first visit to Barrel House Distilling Co which was our 42nd distillery and our 34th stamp in our Kentucky Bourbon Trail Book!

Join us as we relive every moment from our initial tour of the Barrel House Distilling Co But the excitement doesn’t stop there! We’ll then uncork a bottle of their RockCastle Barrel Proof Bourbon 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!

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********

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 #BarrelHouse

❌YOUR BOURBON JOURNEY DOES NOT SELL ALCOHOL❌

ABOUT THE BOTTLE REVIEWED

✴️ RockCastle Barrel Proof Bourbon

Classification: Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
Distillery: Barrel House Distilling Company
Mash Bill: 60% Corn, 30% Wheat, 10% Malted Barley
Age: NAS – at least 4 years
Proof: 113.5
Other: Batch 15, Bottle 3
Purchased: 05/13/23 for $107 at BBQ & Barrels Event, Owensboro KY

❌YOUR BOURBON JOURNEY DOES NOT SELL ALCOHOL❌

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

The Ultimate Wild Turkey Cocktail Recipe

September 11, 2025September 10, 2025 / bourbonjourney / Leave a comment

Thirsty Thursday Cocktails – Episode 35: The “Wild Honey Old Fashioned”

Get ready to elevate your cocktail game with our latest creation: the Wild Honey Old Fashioned. This isn’t just any Old Fashioned recipe—it’s a rich, smooth, and unforgettable twist on a timeless classic. We’re showing you how to perfectly blend two iconic products from Wild Turkey: the bold, high-proof Wild Turkey 101 Bourbon and the sweet, velvety Wild Turkey American Honey Liqueur.

Say goodbye to boring simple syrup! The American Honey adds a delicious, natural sweetness and a complex honey flavor that perfectly complements the spicy oak and caramel notes of the 101 Bourbon. Whether you’re a seasoned bourbon aficionado or a curious beginner, this easy-to-make cocktail is sure to impress.

In this video, you’ll learn:

How to make a balanced and flavorful Old Fashioned.
The secret to using Wild Turkey American Honey for a unique sweetness.
Tips for the perfect garnish to complete your drink.
Why the Wild Turkey 101 is the ultimate choice for a high-proof bourbon cocktail.

Don’t miss out on this incredible recipe! Click Play Now ➡️

If you love whiskey, cocktails, and supporting local distilleries, you won’t want to miss this.

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💬 Share your thoughts and favorite cocktail twists in the comments!

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Cheers to better drinks! 🥂

#OldFashioned #AmericanHoney #WildTurkey101

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NOTE: The spirits and items in this review were purchased by us. We were not compensated by the producers for this review. Please drink responsibly.

Beyond the Tour: A Special James E. Pepper Bourbon

September 9, 2025September 9, 2025 / bourbonjourney / Leave a comment

Bourbon Trail Tales & Tastes Episode 36 – James E Pepper

Join us on a historic journey to James E. Pepper Distillery, the iconic Kentucky Bourbon Trail stop that sparked a whole new era of distilling in Lexington!

In this episode, we’re sharing our full experience, from touring the restored historic distillery to the serendipitous discovery of a rare bottle we’ve been saving for over a year—the Finest Kentucky Oak Bourbon.

We’ll tell the incredible story of how we got our hands on this special, signed bottle and finally taste it on camera for the first time. We’ll dive into the tasting notes, talk about the unique mash bill, and discuss what makes this bottle so special. We’ll share our thoughts on the flavor profile, whether it’s worth the price, and how it compares to other bourbons we’ve tried. Will it live up to the hype? You’ll have to watch to find out!

Click play ▶️ now to join the adventure!

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********

#bourbonreview #KentuckyBourbonTrail #JamesEPepper

❌YOUR BOURBON JOURNEY DOES NOT SELL ALCOHOL❌

ABOUT THE BOTTLE REVIEWED

✴️ Finest Kentucky Oak (FKO) Bourbon

Classification: Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
Distillery: James E Pepper Distilling Co
Mash Bill: Undisclosed but “oldest stocks & distinct mash bills,” which include corn, rye, malted barley, and malted rye”
Age: NAS (at least 4 years)
Proof: 104.2 (Barrel Proof)
Other: Secondary finish – heavily toasted barrels made from Kentucky oak that has been air-seasoned for at least 18-24 months.
Purchased: 04/15/23 for $160 at James E Pepper Distilling Co

❌YOUR BOURBON JOURNEY DOES NOT SELL ALCOHOL❌

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❓Questions❓ YourBourbonJourney@gmail.com

Hartfield & Co Distillery: A Hidden Kentucky Gem

September 2, 2025August 29, 2025 / bourbonjourney / Leave a comment

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!

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💬 Comment below with your favorite Hartfield & Co whiskey!

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********

#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🚨

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Bourbon & Whiskey News: August 2025

September 1, 2025August 31, 2025 / bourbonjourney / Leave a comment

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!

August 29, 2025August 28, 2025 / bourbonjourney / Leave a comment

🔥🥃 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❌

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

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

August 20, 2025August 20, 2025 / bourbonjourney / Leave a comment

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🚨

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Holladay’s Ancient Cave: Unique Bourbon Review

August 6, 2025August 5, 2025 / bourbonjourney / Leave a comment

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🚨

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July’s Whiskey of the Month!

August 1, 2025August 1, 2025 / bourbonjourney / Leave a comment

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

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

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:

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Bourbon & Whiskey News: July 2025

August 1, 2025 / bourbonjourney / Leave a comment

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