bourbon distillery

The First Visit to Old Forester – A Bourbon Adventure

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Join us in CELEBRATION of our 100th VIDEO!

 In Episode 10 of Bourbon Trail Tales & Tastes, we recount our first visit to Old Forester Distillery in Louisville, Kentucky. Join us as we remember that day, Saturday, September 3, 2022, which marked our 14th distillery on Our Bourbon Journey and our 10th Stamp on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail. We share our insights into the experience available at Old Forester Distillery, how complete and detailed the tour is – truly soup to nuts, and why we often select it as a first distillery visit for our friends who are visiting. To fully immerse ourselves in those cherished memories, we taste from a bottle purchased on that very first visit, Old Forester Statesman, enabling us to relive the original experience and further enriching our journey with yet another highlight in Our Bourbon Journey.

In this series, Bourbon Trail Tales & Tastes, we navigate the rich tapestry of our memorable experiences on the Bourbon Trail, a journey that has undeniably enriched our appreciation for this iconic American spirit. We tackle intriguing questions such as: What stands out as the most profound memory of that bourbon trail experience, one that has etched itself firmly in our minds? What exceptional and bourbon or whiskey did we discover during this journey, perhaps one that surprised us with its intricate and delightful flavor profiles? What lasting impressions do we have of that bourbon or whiskey today, as we reflect on its complexities and how they resonate with our evolving palates and preferences? Through this exploration, we passionately recount our adventures and celebrate the stories and connections we’ve forged along the way, highlighting the essence of the Bourbon Trail.

ABOUT THE BOTTLE: Old Forester Statesman

  • The Statesman
  • Classification: Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
  • Company: Brown-Forman
  • Distillery: Old Forester Distilling Company
  • Mash Bill: 72% Corn, 18% Rye, 10% Malted Barley
  • Age: NAS (at least 4 years)
  • Proof: 95
  • MSRP: $55
  • Purchased: 09/03/22 for $56.99 at Old Forester, Louisville KY

**REMEMBER TO ALWAYS DRINK RESPONSIBLY**

Please SUBSCRIBE and hit the LIKE button!

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

Questions? YourBourbonJourney@gmail.com

NOTE: 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.

Exploring The History and Flavors of Oxmoor Bourbon

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In this bourbon review episode, we recount our recent visit to the Oxmoor Farm and Bourbon Company in Louisville, Kentucky. We highlight its historical significance, rooted in the 1700s, and the Bullitt family’s remarkable legacy of legal scholars who played a pivotal role in shaping many of the bourbon and whiskey laws we cherish today. Although bourbon was never produced on-site, Oxmoor served as a private stock brand designed for sharing.

We then delve into the tasting of two exceptional offerings from Oxmoor Bourbon – a Small Batch and a Single Barrel. Each is crafted by an undisclosed distillery in Kentucky; however, we know that one is bottled at Kentucky Artisan Distillery and the other at Neeley Family Distillery. We thoroughly enjoy and compare the unique aromas, tastes, and finishes of each offering.

Ultimately, we strongly recommend that you add Oxmoor Farm and Bourbon to your bourbon journey – book a tour, take a step back in time, and savor some outstanding bourbon!

ABOUT THESE BOTTLES

Oxmoor Small Batch Barrel Strength

  • Classification: Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
  • Company: Oxmoor Bourbon Company
  • Bottled: Kentucky Artisan Distillery, Crestwood KY
  • Mash Bill: Blend of Traditional & Wheated mash bills
  • Age: NAS (at least 4 years)
  • Proof: 119
  • MSRP: $65.00
  • Other: Vol. 3, First Edition, MMXXIV
  • Purchased: 02/21/25 for $65.00 at Oxmoor Farm, Louisville KY 

Oxmoor Single Barrel

  • Classification: Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
  • Company: Oxmoor Bourbon Company
  • Bottled: Neeley Family Distillery, Sparta KY
  • Mash Bill: Undisclosed
  • Age: 8 years
  • Proof: 116.6
  • MSRP: $80.00
  • Released: 
  • Other: Vol. 4, MMXXIV
  • Purchased: 02/21/25 for $80.00 at Oxmoor Farm, Louisville KY

Oxmoor Bourbon Company: https://oxmoorbourbon.com/ 

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**REMEMBER TO ALWAYS DRINK RESPONSIBLY**

Please SUBSCRIBE and hit the LIKE button!

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

Questions? YourBourbonJourney@gmail.com

NOTE: 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.

Kentucky Tobacco Sour: A Unique Spin on the Classic Whiskey Sour

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In episode 8 of Thirsty Thursday Bourbon Cocktails, we’re crafting the ultimate bourbon cocktail set to become your new favorite: the Kentucky Tobacco Sour! My inspiration struck at a bourbon pairing dinner where a chef used Turkish Tobacco Bitters in the appetizer, leaving me completely captivated by the rich aromas and earthy flavors.

The very next day, I seized a bottle of Fee Brothers Turkish Tobacco Bitters, eager to explore its potential. However, I couldn’t find a bourbon-based cocktail that matched my flavor aspirations. So, I put my spin on the classic Whiskey Sour—using Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey and a splash of Fee Brothers Turkish Tobacco Bitters.

The result is a delightful fragrance that evokes tobacco leaves—warm, complex, earthy, subtly sweet, and intriguingly floral. The bitters’ notes of nutmeg and clove create a robust cocktail experience. After testing several versions, Wayne and I are confident you’ll love this Kentucky Tobacco Sour as much as we do!

In this video, we will guide you through the cocktail-making process with clear, step-by-step instructions so you can confidently create this exquisite drink—perfect for sharing with friends or savoring solo.

RECIPE: 

  • 2 oz. of bourbon
  • 1 oz. of Sweet & Sour Mix (or equal parts lemon juice & simple syrup)
  • 3 Dashes of Turkish Tobacco Bitters
  • 6 Dashes of Fee Brothers Fee Foam (or one egg white)
  • Garnish with 3 Dashes of Turkish Tobacco Bitters

DIRECTIONS:

  • Add 2 oz. bourbon
  • Add 1 oz. of Sweet & Sour Mix
  • Add 3 Dashes of Turkish Tobacco Bitters
  • Stir in mixing glass until chilled
  • Pour into shaker dry (with no ice)
  • Add 6 Dashes of Fee Brothers Fee Foam
  • Shake for up to 1 minute
  • Pour into Coupe Glass
  • Garnish with 3 Dashes of Turkish Tobacco Bitters

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Thank you – Please Drink Responsibly

Exploring Flavor Profiles: The Wheated Bourbon Showdown

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In this fun blind challenge, we take you on a captivating journey as we blind taste FOUR Wheated Bourbons.  They are each 100-107 proof and no single barrels were included; however, their mashbills and percentage of wheat do vary. Join us as we meticulously evaluate and rank each expression, diving deep into the distinctive flavor profiles and aromas that set them apart from one another. Ultimately, we will unveil our personal rankings of the wheated bourbon that reign supreme in our tasting, highlighting the elements that captured our palates the most. Of course, there’s a good chance that we won’t always agree on our favorites, leading to some lively debate and fun banter! Don’t miss this engaging and informative deep dive into the world of Wheated Bourbon, where flavor reigns and every sip tells a story.

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ABOUT THESE WHEATED BOURBONS (in alphabetical order)

Bardstown Bourbon Co Origin Series High Wheat Bourbon

  • Classification: Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
  • Company: Bardstown Bourbon Company
  • Distillery: Bardstown Bourbon Company
  • Mash Bill: Corn 53% / Wheat 39% / Malted Barley 8%
  • Age: 6
  • Proof: 106
  • MSRP: $49.99
  • Released: August 2024
  • Purchased: 12/07/24 for $49.99 at Bardstown Tasting Room in Louisville, KY
  • YouTube 12/26/24: https://youtu.be/0W7j-28qnGQ

Cedar Brook Wheated Bourbon

  • Classification: Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
  • Bottled: W.H. McBrayer
  • Distillery: 
  • Mash Bill: 70% corn, 21% wheat and 9% barley
  • Age: NAS
  • Proof: 100
  • MSRP: $65
  • Released: September 2024
  • Purchased: 09/14/24 for $65.00 via McBrayer Legacy Spirits online.
  • Not Previously Reviewed

Holladay Soft Red Wheat Bottled-in-Bond

  • Classification: Missouri Straight Bourbon Whiskey
  • Company: McCormick Distilling Company
  • Distillery:  Holladay Distillery
  • Mash Bill: 73% Corn, 15% Wheat, 12% Malted Barley
  • Age: 6
  • Proof: 100
  • MSRP: $60
  • Released: 2024
  • Other: Bottled in Bond
    Purchased: 03/06/24 for $64.99 at High Spirits in Evansville, IN
  • Story 03/24/24: https://yourbourbonjourney.com/2024/03/26/march-2024-holladay-distillery-tasting/

Weller Antique 107

  • Classification: Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
  • Company: Sazerac Company, Inc.
  • Distillery: Buffalo Trace
  • Mash Bill: Undisclosed Buffalo Trace “Wheated Mash Bill”
  • Age: NAS (talk of typically 6-8 years)
  • Proof: 107
  • MSRP: $52.99
  • Released: Ongoing
  • Purchased: 05/06/23 for $139.99 at Revival Vintage Spirits in Covington, KY
  • Not Previously Reviewed

**REMEMBER TO ALWAYS DRINK RESPONSIBLY**

Please SUBSCRIBE and hit the LIKE button!

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

Questions? YourBourbonJourney@gmail.com

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

Michter’s 10 Year Bourbon: A Deep Dive

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In this bourbon review episode, we share insights from our recent tour of Michter’s Fort Nelson Distillery in downtown Louisville, Kentucky, which granted us the opportunity to acquire the Michter’s 10 Year Old Bourbon. We enthusiastically dive into an exploration of this exceptional release, savoring its rich aromas, complex palate, and memorable finish. Furthermore, we delve into the Michter’s Process, illustrating how their meticulous approach achieves the outstanding results that the Michter’s leadership team aspires to deliver.

ABOUT THIS BOTTLE

  • Michter’s 10 Year Bourbon (2024)
  • Classification: Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
  • Distillery: Whiskey is contract distilled per Michter’s mash bill and instructions
  • Bottled by: Michter’s Distillery LLC, Louisville, Kentucky
  • Mash Bill: Undisclosed
  • Age: 10 years
  • Proof: 94.4
  • MSRP: $185
  • Purchased: 02/22/25 for $195 at Michter’s Fort Nelson in Louisville, KY

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Why You Must Visit Second Sight Distillery on the Bourbon Trail 

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In Episode 9 of Bourbon Trail Tales & Tastes, we recount our memorable first visit to Second Sight Distillery in Ludlow, Kentucky. Join us as we vividly remember that day, Sunday, July 31, 2022, which marked our 13th distillery on Our Bourbon Journey and our 9th Stamp on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail. We share our insights into the experience available at Second Sight Distillery, our respect for its co-founders – Carus Waggoner and Rick Couch, and how it has become a must-stop whenever in Northern Kentucky. To fully immerse ourselves in those cherished memories, we taste from a bottle purchased on that very first visit, Oak Eye Bourbon, enabling us to relive the original experience and further enriching our journey with yet another highlight in Our Bourbon Journey.

In this series, Bourbon Trail Tales & Tastes, we navigate the rich tapestry of our memorable experiences on the Bourbon Trail, a journey that has undeniably enriched our appreciation for this iconic American spirit. We tackle intriguing questions such as: What stands out as the most profound memory of that bourbon trail experience, one that has etched itself firmly in our minds? What exceptional and bourbon or whiskey did we discover during this journey, perhaps one that surprised us with its intricate and delightful flavor profiles? What lasting impressions do we have of that bourbon or whiskey today, as we reflect on its complexities and how they resonate with our evolving palates and preferences? Through this exploration, we passionately recount our adventures and celebrate the stories and connections we’ve forged along the way, highlighting the essence of the Bourbon Trail.

ABOUT THE BOTTLE: Oak Eye Bourbon

  • Classification: Kentucky Bourbon Whiskey
  • Company: Second Sight Spirits
  • Distillery: Second Sight Distillery
  • Mash Bill: 72% Corn, 16% Wheat, 7% Malted Barley, 5% Rye
  • Barrel: No. 75, 15 Gallon, Level 3 Char, Entry Proof 115
  • Age: 1 year, 8 months
  • Proof: 92.1
  • Other: Ultra Small Batch, Bottled July 2022.
  • Purchased: 07/31/22 for $49 at Second Sight in Ludlow, KY

Bourbon Hot Toddy: The Cozy Cocktail You Need This Winter

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In episode 7 of Thirsty Thursday Cocktails, we are crafting a drink that will wrap you in cozy warmth on a chilly evening – the Bourbon Hot Toddy! This timeless classic not only brings comfort but also delights the senses, making it a perfect companion for curling up by the fireplace or enjoying a quiet night in. With its straightforward ingredients, including the rich and smooth bourbon, fragrant honey, zesty lemon, and hot water, it strikes the ideal balance of sweetness and tartness, ensuring a satisfying sip every time. This terrific cocktail is sure to be your go-to evening sipper, providing both refreshment and relief from the cold. Tonight, we will master the Bourbon Hot Toddy cocktail with clear, step-by-step instructions, empowering you to create this delightful drink with confidence and style, perfect for sharing with friends or savoring on your own.

RECIPE: 

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

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BAR ITEMS

True Bar Mat: https://amzn.to/4hi23ua 

Briout Jigger for Bartending: https://amzn.to/3DUjva3 

Briout Bar Spoon: https://amzn.to/3PJMwaN 

FOOD OR GARNISHES

Spicy World Cinnamon Sticks 7 Ounce Bag: https://amzn.to/3WuNhIQ 

iSpice Premium nutmeg: https://amzn.to/40pzMv7 

Angostura Bitters Original and Orange Bitters (Combo- Pack) – 4oz Bottles, Aromatic and Citrus Infused: https://amzn.to/4bkQhO7 

GLASSWARE

Godinger Coffee Mugs, Glass Irish Coffee Mug Set: https://amzn.to/3PR51dq 

Elijah Craig Barrel Proof Is The BEST SURPRISE In Whiskey

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In this bourbon review episode, we’re diving into the highly anticipated first release of 2025 – the ECBP A125 from Elijah Craig Barrel Proof. As passionate ECBP enthusiasts, it’s remarkable to note that this is our first time grabbing the earliest release of the year! We’ll conduct a comprehensive analysis of this expression, from its captivating nose to the remarkable palate and finish. Join us for our expert insights on this inaugural release of Elijah Craig Barrel Proof for 2025, which boasts a lower age statement and proof than we initially expected.

ABOUT THIS BOTTLE
Classification: Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
Distillery: Heaven Hill
Mash Bill: 78% Corn, 12% Malted Barley, 10% Rye
Age: 10 years, 7 months
Proof: 118.2
MSRP: $74.99
Released: January 2025
Purchased: 02/27/25 for $99.99 at High Spirits in Evansville, IN

AMAZON AFFILIATE LINKS (commissions earned):

GLENCAIRN Whiskey Glass, Gift Set of 4: https://amzn.to/4ak8DOR 

CairnCaps Bamboo Whiskey Glass Lids – Set of 6: https://amzn.to/4hgIJh0  

CairnCradle Whiskey Glass Rack: https://amzn.to/4amLZ8k 

Clove, Gum Vintage Tin, 10 Count: https://amzn.to/3QDA3pT 

Unlock the Secrets of Bold Bourbon Bloody Marys!

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In episode 6 of Thirsty Thursday Cocktails, we’re crafting a bold and rich interpretation of the classic Bloody Mary. This time, we’re elevating it with BOURBON! Often referred to as a Bourbon Bloody Mary, a Bloody Marianne, or a Bloody Derby, this cocktail is a game changer. The beauty of the Bourbon Bloody Mary lies in its versatility; you can start with a prepared Bloody Mary mix and effortlessly enhance it with a few careful ingredients to match your taste. Perfect for bourbon enthusiasts, this cocktail transforms the traditional Bloody Mary, as the bourbon introduces a remarkable depth of flavor that’s simply irresistible.

RECIPE & DIRECTIONS: 
Optional: Rim Glass with Bacon Salt & Tajín® Clásico Seasoning
In a mixing glass, add:
…6 ounces Bloody Mary mix
…2 ounces bourbon
…3 dashes of Worcestershire sauce
…2-3 dashes of Tajín® Clásico Seasoning
…2-3 dashes of Maple Bacon Salt
…2-3 dashes of celery salt
…2-3 dashes of black pepper
…1/2 teaspoon (or bar spoon) of Prepared Horseradish
…2-3 drops Gravy Master
…2-4 drops of Hot Sauce (to your spice level)
…Squeeze of Fresh Lime
Pour into a prepared highball glass filled with ice and pre-rimmed
Garnish as desired. This can be simple to elaborate!
…Mini Dill Pickle, Stuffed Olives, Cherry Tomato
Enjoy!

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Briout Jigger for Bartending: https://amzn.to/3DUjva3 

Mindspace Utensil Holder, Kitchen Condiment Organizer and Flatware Utensil Caddy: https://amzn.to/3ELKvIW 

MOFADO. Crystal Cocktail Mixing Glass: https://amzn.to/4jiZ0nl 

Highball Drinking Glasses Set of 4: https://amzn.to/41wHOUV

Zing Zang Bloody Mary Mix: https://amzn.to/41oc1Fz

Lea & Perrins Worcestershire Sauce: https://amzn.to/4hK056y

Tajín Clásico Chile Lime Seasoning: https://amzn.to/4k135gp

Smoked Bacon Sea Salt: https://amzn.to/4bayR6S

Cuisinart Maple Bacon Seasoning: https://amzn.to/4k7p2dG

McCormick Celery Salt: https://amzn.to/4i1HeUm

Bookbinder’s Horseradish: https://amzn.to/4k9dGGn 

Gravy Master: https://amzn.to/41kbmot

Filthy Cocktail Garnish, Blue Cheese Stuffed Olives: https://amzn.to/4k13CyV

Mezzetta Stuffed Olives, Jalapeno: https://amzn.to/42Z5Ybt 

Bourbon Trail Tales & Tastes Episode 8 – New Riff Distilling

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New Riff Distillery: A Memorable 8th Stop on Our Bourbon Journey

In Episode 8 of Bourbon Trail Tales & Tastes, we recount our terrific first visit to New Riff Distillery in Newport, Kentucky. Join us as we vividly remember that day, Sunday, July 31, 2022, which marked our 8th stop on Our Bourbon Journey and our 7th Stamp on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail. We share our insights into the experience available at New Riff Distillery and how they have become a must-stop whenever in Northern Kentucky. To fully immerse ourselves in those cherished memories, we  taste from a bottles purchased on that very first visit, Balboa Rye, enabling us to relive the original experience and further enriching our journey with yet another highlight in Our Bourbon Journey.

In this series, Bourbon Trail Tales & Tastes, we navigate the rich tapestry of our memorable experiences on the Bourbon Trail, a journey that has undeniably enriched our appreciation for this iconic American spirit. We tackle intriguing questions such as: What stands out as the most profound memory of that bourbon trail experience, one that has etched itself firmly in our minds? What exceptional and bourbon or whiskey did we discover during this journey, perhaps one that surprised us with its intricate and delightful flavor profiles? What lasting impressions do we have of that bourbon or whiskey today, as we reflect on its complexities and how they resonate with our evolving palates and preferences? Through this exploration, we passionately recount our adventures and celebrate the stories and connections we’ve forged along the way, highlighting the essence of the Bourbon Trail.

ABOUT THE BOTTLE: Balboa Rye Whiskey
Type: Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey
Distillery:New Distillery
Mashbill: 95% Balboa Rye, 5% Malted Barley 
Other: Bottled in Bond
Age: 4 Years
Proof: 100
Price Paid: $47.99