bourbon trail

Augusta’s Historic Distillery: A Visit to Becker & Bird

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Becker & Bird: The Historic Kentucky Bourbon Time Capsule

Think you’ve seen everything on the Bourbon Trail? Think again. Join us for Bourbon Trail Tales and Taste, Episode 60, as we travel to Augusta, Kentucky, to visit the historic Becker & Bird Distillery.

This isn’t your average commercial distillery tour. Set on a property that’s on the National Register of Historic Places, Becker & Bird honors the legacy of Johannes Becker, a Revolutionary War veteran who began distilling on this land in 1798. You’ll learn the fascinating (and sometimes frustrating) story of why they had to shift their name from “Baker” to “Becker” to avoid a corporate legal battle, and why this site is a true bourbon time capsule.

The real showstopper? The cellar. We’re taking you inside one of the largest wine and spirit cellars in the U.S.—a hand-built stone masterpiece that survived the Battle of Augusta in 1862. Its consistent, cool, humid environment acts as a natural rickhouse, unlike anything you see in modern metal-clad warehouses.

In this episode: 

🥃 The Bourbon: We’re tasting the Historic Becker & Bird Straight Bourbon (100 proof, 2-year age statement, MGP-sourced). We break down the profile, the “grain-forward” notes, and why we think it’s important to support these up-and-coming craft distillers. 

🍷 The Winery: We discover their amazing bourbon-barrel-aged wine, a must-try if you visit the tasting room!

If you love exploring the history behind the bottle and want to support the preservation of our Kentucky spirits heritage, this is a stop you need to add to your list.

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❌YOUR BOURBON JOURNEY DOES NOT SELL ALCOHOL❌

✴️ Historic Becker & Bird Straight Bourbon

  • Classification: Straight Bourbon Whiskey
  • Company: Baker-Bird Winery & Distillery (Owned by Dinah Bird)
  • Distillery: MGP (Lawrenceburg, IN)
  • Mash Bill: Most likely MGP’s 75% Corn, 21% Rye, 4% Malted Barley
  • Age: 2 Years
  • Proof: 100
  • MSRP: $78.99 (Price may vary; some winery-direct bottles are priced at a premium due to the historic site maintenance)
  • Released: 2018 (Brand launch)
  • Purchased: $90 03/15/25 at Becker & Bird Distillery
  • Other: Bottled by Kentucky Artisan Distillery (Crestwood, KY). The label pays homage to Johannes Becker (John Baker), a Revolutionary War veteran who moved to Augusta in 1797.

🚨REMEMBER TO ALWAYS DRINK RESPONSIBLY🚨

❓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.

#BourbonTrail #BeckerAndBird #KentuckyBourbon #DistilleryTour #WhiskeyTasting #BourbonHistory #AugustaKY #BourbonReview #SmallBatchWhiskey #WhiskeyHistory #YourBourbonJourney #BourbonLife #StraightBourbon #CraftDistillery #BourbonLove

Respect The Grain: Tasting Spirits of French Lick

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The Morning Glory & Smoked Apple Brandy! | Spirits of French Lick Review

Can a bourbon made with Kasha and Buckwheat actually taste good? Today on Your Bourbon Journey, Wayne and Rebecca are heading back to 2024 to relive their visit to Spirits of French Lick in West Baden, Indiana. They are diving into the wild history of The Morning Glory Bourbon and a high-proof surprise gifted by a friend: Palindrome Smoked Apple Brandy.

From the “Alchemist” himself, Alan Bishop, these spirits are anything but traditional. We break down the unique grain-forward profile of a bourbon inspired by a rough-and-tumble Civil War-era tavern and see if three drops of water can tame a 137.7 proof apple brandy finished in Islay scotch butts.

In this video, we discuss:

  • Our experience as the “first-ever” tour for a nervous but wonderful guide.
  • The “Respect the Grain” philosophy behind the mash bill of 16% Kasha and 2% Buckwheat.
  • A full tasting of The Morning Glory: Is it a “savory shredded wheat” or a “cinnamon-free churro”?
  • The Palindrome Brandy breakdown: Salted caramel, smoke, and the “Islay effect.”
  • The “Water Test”: How three drops completely shifted the profile from baked pie to fresh orchard.

Connect With Us & Support The Journey! 

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❌YOUR BOURBON JOURNEY DOES NOT SELL ALCOHOL❌

✴️ The Morning Glory

  • Classification: Indiana Straight Bourbon Whiskey
  • Distillery: Spirits of French Lick
  • Mash Bill: 66% Corn, 12% Rye, 16% Kasha, 2% Buckwheat, 4% Malt
  • Age: at least 4 Years
  • Proof: 100
  • Purchased: 06/28/24 for $55.24 at Spirits of French Lick

✴️ Palindrome

  • Classification: Smoked Apple Brandy
  • Distillery: Spirits of French Lick
  • Mash Bill: Distilled from fermented apple cider
  • Aged in New American Oak
  • Finished in Islay peated Scotch butts
  • Proof: 137.7
  • Gifted to us by a friend

❌YOUR BOURBON JOURNEY DOES NOT SELL ALCOHOL❌

Original Story About Our Tour: https://yourbourbonjourney.com/2024/07/07/first-visit-to-spirits-of-french-lick-distillery/ 

🚨REMEMBER TO ALWAYS DRINK RESPONSIBLY🚨

❓Questions❓ YourBourbonJourney@gmail.com

NOTE: The spirits in this review were purchased by us or gifted to 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 #WhiskeyReview #SpiritsOfFrenchLick #MorningGlory #AppleBrandy #IndianaBourbon #WhiskeyTasting #CraftDistillery #AlanBishop #BourbonJourney #SmokedBrandy #HighProof #SingleBarrel #BourbonCommunity #WestBaden

Bourbon & Whiskey News: March 2026

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04/01/26
Curated by Rebecca Herman

Bourbon & Whiskey Industry Highlights from Marh 2026 >> 72 Stories!

In March 2026, the bourbon and whiskey industry saw significant developments, including Brown-Forman exceeding quarterly estimates, discussions of legalizing home distilling, and notable distillery updates. Key events included ongoing mergers, new product releases, and various festivals planned for the upcoming months, highlighting an active market landscape.

For those who need the ‘Executive Summary’ before diving into the details, I’ve launched a new curated series: The Proof Report. It distills this month’s massive news cycle into two clear categories: the industry’s strategic Purpose and the monthly liquid Proof. Read The Proof Report for March 2026.

Industry Market News & Related Announcements >> 8 Stories

03/04: Whiskey maker Brown-Forman tops quarterly estimates on steady demand

03/06: Federal case could legalize home distilling, reshape congressional power

03/09: Whisky drags control state spirits sales down in January

03/23: Bourbon and Cognac Market Is Going to Boom | Brown-Forman • Diageo • Pernod Ricard

03/24: Casks and Consequences: The Debate Over Buying Whiskey Barrels

03/26: Is Jack parent company Brown-Forman for sale?

03/26: Kentucky whiskey company Brown-Forman confirms it’s talked merger with Pernod Ricard

03/27: 5 Expert-Recommended Craft Whiskey Producers To Watch In 2026

Distillery News >> 13 Stories

03/02: Woodinville Whiskey unveils new packaging

03/02: MGP Ingredients hit by American whiskey glut, squeeze on cheaper brands in 2025 – results

03/04: Kentucky Distillers’ Association Adds Prova Spirits as Newest Member

03/09: Sazerac Co takes control of shuttered Kentucky whiskey distillery

03/10: Uncle Nearest allegedly hid $20m loan provided by Jay-Z

03/12: Brown-Forman CEO wagers on Woodford

03/16: Ex-Diageo VP joins Redwood Empire Whiskey

03/18: 159-year-old whiskey brand files disputed Chapter 11 bankruptcy

03/19: Kings County celebrates one-millionth bottle sale

03/19: MGP Is Now Letting You Pick Barrels of Whiskey From Its Master Distiller’s Private Collection

03/23: Highly acclaimed Remus Bourbon introduces the Remus Bottle Club

03/27: Holland America Line and Jefferson’s Bourbon Make History with the First Bourbon Aged on Cruise Ships

03/30: Kentucky Distillery Green River Lays Off Its Head Distiller as American Whiskey Woes Continue

Distillery Trail >> 2 Stories

03/26: The Tennessee Whiskey Trail Launches A New Food-Focused Experience With 40+ Restaurants

03/30: A New Era at Jeptha Creed: Expanded Distillery Experiences Arrive In 2026

Awards Announced >> 6 Stories

03/04: 2026 Los Angeles International Wine & Spirits Challenge Announces Winners

03/06: DISCUS 2026 Awards Honors Industry Leaders

03/19: KDA Honors Sen. Julie Raque Adams with 100 Proof Award

03/20: KDA Honors Rep. Derek Lewis with 100 Proof Award

03/23: KDA Honors Rep. Stephen West with 100 Proof Award

03/29: This $90 Atlanta Bourbon Won Best Whiskey at the 2026 WSWA Wine & Spirits Tasting Competition

Bourbon Festival News,Updates, & Planning >> This Month’s Updates > 3

May 2026: BBQ & Barrels, Owensboro KY

June 2026: National Bourbon Week Set to Return June 14-21

Aug 2027: Missouri Bourbon Festival, Hermann MO

Sep 2026: Kentucky Bourbon Festival, Bardstown KY

Sep 2026: Bourbon & Beyond, Louisville KY

Oct 2026: Bourbon on the Banks, Frankfort KY

Jan 2027: BourbonCon, Lexington KY

Feb 2027: Bourbon Classic, Louisville KY

Mar 2026: New Orleans Bourbon Festival

Bottle Releases >> xx Stories

03/01: Michter’s Bet Early on an Annual 10-Year Bourbon — and the 2026 Release Shows Why That Call Endured

03/02: Chicken Cock Whiskey Introduces Its First-Ever Wheated Bourbon, Marking a Bold New Era for the Historic Brand

03/02: Pursuit Spirits Captures the Emergence of Spring with Sakura Bloom Bourbon

03/03: Heaven Hill Distillery Announces 2026 Heaven Hill Heritage Collection Release

03/03: Hard Truth Launches Three New Whiskey Expressions

03/04: Woodford Reserve Releases 2026 Kentucky Derby Bottle

03/06: Augusta Distillery Launches Small Batch & Wheated Bourbons

03/06: New Riff Announces 6-Year-Old Silver Grove Bourbon & Rye

03/09: Midleton Releases Last of its Silent Distillery Collection

03/09: Maker’s Mark Unveils 2026 Wood Finishing Series: The Stewards Release

03/09: Milam & Greene Launches Bluebonnet Bourbon, a Texas-Aged Release Honoring Lady Bird Johnson’s Legacy

03/10: Rock Town Distillery Announces Inaugural Winners Circle 2026 Bourbon Release

03/10: Remus Bourbon Introduces Master Distiller Experimental Series No. 2, Its First-Ever Wheat Whiskey

03/10: Raising a Glass to 250 Years: Peg Leg Porker Launches “Spirit of America™” Limited Edition Bottled-in-Bond Bourbon

03/10: Heaven Hill’s New Bourbon Comes From the Final Barrels Aged in One of Its Historic Warehouses

03/11: Barrell Craft Spirits® Introduces its First Cigar Blend Bourbon

03/11: Kentucky Senator Releases Jim Bunning Edition

03/11: Lux Row Distillers introduces Lux Row Estate Bourbon

03/11: Frey Ranch Distillery Adds To Its Core Line Up With The Launch Of Frey Ranch Farm Strength Uncut Rye

03/11: Lost Lantern Releases High-Low Collection

03/12: Evan Williams® Expands Award-Winning Flavors Lineup with New Evan Williams Blackberry

03/12: Garrison Brothers Announces Launch of 2026 Lady Bird Bourbon

03/16: B.R. Distilling Company Announces its Third Annual Limited-Release of Blue Note Special Reserve

03/17: Bardstown Bourbon Distillery Reserve Returns with Unique Barrel Finish

03/17: Jim Beam Just Dropped Its First Booker’s Bourbon Batch of the Year—and It’s a Good One

03/18: Elijah Craig Introduces 15-Year-Old Bourbon, a New Addition to Its Renowned Single Barrel Lineup

03/18: Kentucky Peerless Distilling Co. Releases 10-Year-Old Bourbon

03/19: Buffalo Trace Traveller Whiskey Full Proof

03/20: Announcing Shortbarrel Afterswarm Meadowfoam

03/20: Old Forester Unveils Newest Expansion in The 117 Series: High Angels’ Share Rye Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey

03/24: Lux Row Distillers announces the arrival of Blood Oath Pact 12 Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey

03/24: Michter’s Distillery to Release 2026 Edition of Two Legacy Series Whiskeys: Shenk’s Homestead & Bomberger’s Declaration

03/24: Buffalo Trace Releases Daniel Weller Spelt Wheat

03/24: Jack Daniel’s Introduces New Batches of Award-Winning Aged Series Tennessee Whiskeys

03/25: Horse Soldier Bourbon Unveils Liberty Edition

03/27: Larrikin Bourbon Releases 3rd Annual ‘Pour for the Roses’ For Kentucky Derby

03/31: Angel’s Envy Debuts 2026 Cask Strength Dual Release Featuring Annual Bourbon and First-Ever Age-Stated Rye

03/31: Knob creek® debuts blender’s edition, a limited series celebrating the art of blending

Book Releases >> 2 Titles


“Bottom Shelf” by Fred Minnick

Malt Whisky Yearbook 2026

3 Michter’s Ryes You NEED to Try: Tasting & Review 

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The Rye Trifecta: A Deep Dive into Michter’s Fort Nelson Experience! 🥃

Welcome back to another episode of Bourbon Trail Tales and Tastes! Today, we are heading to the heart of Louisville’s “Whiskey Row” to revisit a personal favorite: Michter’s Fort Nelson. As Distillery #15 and Stamp #13 on our Kentucky Bourbon Trail journey, this historic site is more than just a distillery—it’s a masterclass in whiskey maturation.

In this episode, Wayne and Rebecca are breaking down three incredible (and hard-to-find) Michter’s Ryes. From the raw power of the Barrel Strength to the “sugar rush” of the Toasted Barrel Finish, and finishing with the elegance of the 10 Year Rye, we’re exploring why Michter’s is a must-stop for any whiskey enthusiast.

We also share our tips for visiting the Fort Nelson bar, the “Bottle Your Own” experience (and why you need to get in line early!), and a shoutout to Master Distiller Dan McKee and Master of Maturation Andrea Wilson.

Whiskeys Tasted in This Episode:

  • Michter’s US*1 Barrel Strength Rye (2022): The bold, spicy baseline at 112.4 proof.
  • Michter’s US*1 Toasted Barrel Finish Rye (2023): Secondary maturation magic featuring campfire marshmallow and dark chocolate notes.
  • Michter’s 10 Year Kentucky Straight Rye (2024/2025): Sophisticated, herbal, and refined. Is it actually older than 10 years? 

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❌YOUR BOURBON JOURNEY DOES NOT SELL ALCOHOL❌

✴️Michter’s US*1 Barrel Strength Rye (2022)

  • Classification: Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey
  • Distillery: Michter’s Distillery (Louisville, KY)
  • Mash Bill: Undisclosed (Proprietary “Kentucky Style” rye; high corn and malted barley content)
  • Age: NAS (Non-Age Stated, but generally understood to be 5–7 years)
  • Proof: 112.4
  • Released: March 2022 
  • Other:  Low Entry Proof: Distillate enters the barrel at 103 proof, much lower than the industry standard (125 proof), which Michter’s claims results in a richer mouthfeel.
  • Purchased: 09/03/22 for $119 at Michter’s Fort Nelson

✴️Michter’s US*1 Toasted Barrel Finish Rye (2023)

  • Classification: Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey
  • Distillery: Michter’s Distillery (Louisville, KY)
  • Mash Bill: Undisclosed
  • Age: NAS (The base rye is typically 5–7 years old before the secondary finish)
  • Proof: 108.6
  • Released: September 2023
  • Other: Finishing Process: After aging in charred new American oak, the whiskey is moved to a second barrel made of 24-month air-dried wood that has been toasted but not charred. Entry Proof: Like the others, this began its life at a low 103 entry proof, which helps maintain that “creamy” mouthfeel even after the second barreling.
  • Purchased: 12/16/23 for $139.00

✴️Michter’s 10 Year Kentucky Straight Rye (2024/2025)

  • Classification: Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey
  • Company: Michter’s Distillery
  • Distillery: Undisclosed (Contract distilled to Michter’s specifications in Kentucky)
  • Mash Bill: Undisclosed (Known as a “Kentucky Style” Rye, heavy on corn and malted barley)
  • Age: 10 Years (Though widely rumored to be aged closer to 12–15 years)
  • Proof: 92.8
  • Released: Mid-2024 
  • Other: Barrel No. 24C1550: .
  • Single Barrel: Unlike the Small Batch US*1 line, this is pulled from a single, exceptional barrel chosen by Master Distiller Dan McKee and Master of Maturation Andrea Wilson.
  • Purchased: 02/22/25 for $210.00

🚨REMEMBER TO ALWAYS DRINK RESPONSIBLY🚨

❓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.

#Michters #BourbonTrail #WhiskeyTasting #KentuckyBourbon #RyeWhiskey #FortNelson #Louisville #WhiskeyRow #MichtersRye #ToastedBarrel #BarrelStrength #WhiskeyReview #BourbonJourney #DrinkResponsibly #DanMcKee

Bourbon & Whiskey News: February 2026

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03/02/26
Curated by Rebecca Herman

Bourbon & Whiskey Industry Highlights from February 2026 >> 56 Stories!

In February 2026, the bourbon and whiskey industry saw significant developments, including over 56 stories highlighting market trends, distillery news, and awards. Key topics included a surge in bourbon sales, new craft distillery memberships, major bottle releases, and festival updates, emphasizing the industry’s continuous growth and evolution.

Industry Market News & Related Announcements >> 7 Stories

02/02: Bourbon Secondary Market Trends: 42k+ Transactions Analyzed

02/03: Bourbon brings more than $10bn to Kentucky

02/03: Bourbon Women Set to Celebrate 15 Years

02/04: American Distilling Institute Launches New Membership Structure to Better Serve the Evolving Craft Spirits Industry

02/05: 2025 Craft Distilleries and Distilled Spirits in the U.S. State of the Industry Report

02/10: Distilled Spirits Council Report Shows Spirits Sales Down; RTDs Surge

02/16: Bourbon Spirits Market to Grow Strongly by 2030, Driven by Rising Alcoholic Beverage Consumption

Distillery News >> 10 Stories

02/02: How A Whiskey Market Reset Is Fueling Shortbarrel Bourbon’s Rise

02/02: Jeptha Creed Distillery Cites Growth Despite Industry Headwinds

02/02: US whiskey firm Barrell Craft Spirits sells facility

02/02: WhistlePig Whiskey parts ways with CEO

02/03: Weaver pushes back in message to investors

02/04: Beloved Whiskey Brand Is ‘Insolvent,’ Creditors Claim

02/06: Kirin to Sell Four Roses Distillery to E&J Gallo

02/12: Resurrecting the Three-Chamber Still—and the Flavor of Pre-Prohibition Whiskey

02/13: Whistleblower lawsuit filed against high-profile Kentucky distillery, CEO

02/25: This Exclusive Spirits Membership Will Get You Allocations of Rare Whiskeys From Lux Row Distillers

Distillery Trail >> 3 Stories

02/05: Dark Arts Whiskey House Joins Kentucky Bourbon Trail

02/25: KDA Annouces New ‘Build Your Own Bourbon Trail’ Feature

02/25: Buzzard’s Roost Whiskey Launches New Visitor Experiences at its Louisville Distillery and Tasting Room

Awards Announced >> 7 Stories

02/13: Local distillery wins one of whiskey industry’s highest honors

02/16: Heaven Hill Earns Top Honors at 2026 World Whiskies Awards America and Icons of Whisky

02/16: Onyx & Amber Takes Top Honor as World’s Best American Style Whiskey in Debut Year

02/19: The World’s Best Single Barrel Bourbon According to the World Whiskies Awards 2026

02/20: This $55 Whiskey Is America’s Best Rye, According to the 2026 World Whiskies Awards

02/21: This Kentucky Distillery Just Won Best Distiller Of The Year At The 2026 World Whiskies Awards

02/28: Chris Fletcher named Master Distiller of Year

Bourbon Festival News,Updates, & Planning >> 9

Mar 2026: New Orleans Bourbon Festival

May 2026: BBQ & Barrels, Owensboro KY

Aug 2027: Missouri Bourbon Festival, Hermann MO

Sep 2026: Kentucky Bourbon Festival, Bardstown KY

Sep 2026: Bourbon & Beyond, Louisville KY

Oct 2026: Bourbon on the Banks, Frankfort KY

Jan 2027: BourbonCon, Lexington KY

Feb 2027: Bourbon Classic, Louisville KY

Bottle Releases >> 19 Stories

02/02: NFL Legend Terry Bradshaw Just Dropped a New Hazmat Bourbon—and It’s Actually Great

02/02: Introducing Shortbarrel Four Grain Bourbon: A Wheated Kentucky Whiskey By Way Of The Great State Of Georgia

02/03: Kentucky Artisan Distillery Releases Bottled-in-Bond Additions to Artisan Series

02/03: Buzzard’s Roost Distillery Introduces New Four Grain Double Oak Bourbon

02/05: Woodford Reserve Releases New Distillery Series: Cabernet Sauvignon Barrel Finish

02/09: King of Kentucky marks US semiquincentennial

02/09: Award-Winning Alberta Distillers Limited(R) Releases Two New Premium Expressions

02/09: Redbreast Expands Its Iberian Series With Its First-Ever Moscatel Cask Release

02/10: Green River Expands Award-Winning Lineup with Launch of Wheated Full Proof Bourbon

02/10: Michter’s To Release Celebration Sour Mash, The Rarest Whiskey in the Distiller’s Lineup

02/10: Yellowstone Bourbon Celebrates America’s 250th Anniversary with Hand Picked Single Barrel Program

02/12: Barrell Craft Spirits Just Dropped a Hazmat Whiskey Aged in Orange Liqueur Casks

02/17: Rebel Bourbon rolls out Rebel Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey Single Barrel 2026 Selected By Kyle Busch

02/18: Penelope Releases 7-Year Barrel Strength Bourbon

02/19: Southern Distilling Co. Finishes Bourbon in Zinfandel Wine Casks

02/25: Barrell Craft Spirits® Introduces a 12-year BourbonFinished in Toasted American Oak Casks

02/25: Heaven Hill Releases 20th Anniversary Bernheim Wheat Whiskey

02/26: Heaven Hill Distillery Honors a Storied Legacy with Heaven Hill Deatsville 13-Year-Old Bourbon Whiskey

02/27: Bulleit Debuts a Mesquite-Smoked Malt Bourbon With Zero Rye

Book Releases >> 1 Title


“Bottom Shelf” by Fred Minnick

We Tasted 14 Whiskeys! Wayne’s 58th Birthday Bourbon Tour

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A Birthday Detour to Remember: Old Louisville Whiskey Co.

February of 2024 – What started as a trip home from Mattingly’s turned into one of our favorite Bourbon Trail memories! In this episode of Bourbon Trail Tales and Tastes, we celebrate Wayne’s 58th birthday with a visit to Distillery No. 59: Old Louisville Whiskey Company.

Join us as we recount our incredible experience with Amine, a master of blending and aging who went above and beyond for our first visit. From barrel thieving in the back of their industrial Louisville home to tasting 14+ incredible pours, this visit proved why Amine is one of the best in the business. 

We also dive into a tasting of two unique bottles we brought home that day: a 10-year old “barely legal” bourbon with a massive 49% barley mashbill and a 7-year-old mysterious, sweet 119-proof bourbon.

Whether you’re a fan of MGP sources, unique finishes like Hungarian or Colombian oak, or just love a great distillery story, you won’t want to miss this one.

Connect With Us & Support The Journey! 

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🚨REMEMBER TO ALWAYS DRINK RESPONSIBLY🚨

❓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 #OldLouisvilleWhiskeyCo #BourbonTrail #WhiskeyTasting #BourbonReview #KentuckyBourbon #BarrelThieving #BourbonJourney #CraftWhiskey #WheatedBourbon #MGP #WhiskeyLover #DistilleryVisit #BourbonLife

Bourbon & Whiskey News: January 2026

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02/02/26
Curated by Rebecca Herman McBrayer

Bourbon & Whiskey Industry Highlights from January 2026 >> 48 Stories!

In January 2026, the bourbon and whiskey industry experienced notable developments, including the announcement of a new Leadership Academy by the Kentucky Distillers’ Association, significant investments in Kentucky tourism, ongoing distillery closures, and a rising global bourbon market. Additionally, various distilleries celebrated awards and new product releases.

Industry Market News & Related Announcements >> 9 Stories

01/06: Kentucky Distillers’ Association announces 2026 Leadership Academy Class

01/08: US spirits bankruptcies pile pressure on bar menus

0/17: Kentucky’s Tourism Industry Surpasses Fourteen Billion USD with Record Growth in 2024-2026, Highlighting Bourbon, Arts, and Outdoor Recreation

01/18: Kentucky Tourism Transformation: One Hundred Eighteen Million USD in Investments to Revitalize Lexington, Louisville, and Beyond—Big Projects Begin in 2026!

01/20: More Bourbon Distilleries Are Closing. So What Happens to the Whiskey?

01/21: Kentucky Distillers’ Association Names New 2026 Board

01/21: Major Spirits Brands Are Sitting on a Massive $22 Billion Glut of Unsold Inventory: Report

01/22: Global Bourbon Whiskey Market Set to Reach $13.81 Billion by 2032 with a 7.4% CAGR

01/22: Best Online Bourbon Price Comparison Website

Distillery News >> 17 Stories

01/06: Jackson Purchase Distillery Wins Sustainability Award

01/07: Ownership transition at Iron Fish Distillery aims for continued success

01/08: Uncle Nearest Founders Accuse Former CFO of Fraud in New Lawsuit

01/08: Group interested in acquiring Uncle Nearest assets

01/09: Kentucky distillery boosting local economy in face of tariffs on bourbon

01/13: Casey Jones Distillery to enter new ownership, local brand to be preserved

01/13: B3 Beverage Adds Casey Jones Distillery to Their Family

01/16: Bankrupt Luca Mariano Distillery seeks buyer

01/16: Acclaimed Distillery Kentucky Owl Faces an Uncertain Future

01/19: Tennessee’s Company Distilling names CEO

01/19: Sustainability, creativity, drinkability: Inside Stillwagon Distillery

01/19: Buzzard’s Roost targets double-digit growth in 2026

01/19: Parent company of Kentucky Owl bourbon files for bankruptcy, moves to liquidate operations

01/20: ABD to acquire distillery in $7.7m deal

01/23: Top 10 distillery openings of 2025

01/24: Craft Whiskey Makers Are Turning to Heirloom Grains — Here Are 7 Bottles to Try

01/27: Lofted Spirits unveils fresh Bardstown Bourbon Co packaging

Distillery Trail >> 5 Stories

01/06: 6 Distillers Turning Virginia Into A Must-Visit Bourbon Destination

01/22: A First-Timer’s Guide to Soaking Up Louisville’s Bourbon Scene

01/22: Former home of bourbon great E.H. Taylor turned into boutique Ky. hotel

01/23: 7 Things You Should Know About Castle & Key, the Kentucky Distillery Housed in a Stunning Castle

01/29: Kentucky Bourbon Trail Adds 10 New Destinations

Awards Announced >> 3 Stories

01/10: 9 Standout Bourbons Crowned at the New Orleans Spirits Competition

01/21: Windsor-made whisky named Canadian Whisky of the Year

01/29: The World’s Best Whiskies of 2026: World Whiskies Awards Winners

Bourbon Festival News, Updates, & Planning >> 6

Feb 2026: Bourbon Classic, Louisville KY

Mar 2026: New Orleans Bourbon Festival

May 2026: BBQ & Barrels, Owensboro KY

Sep 2026: Kentucky Bourbon Festival, Bardstown KY

Sep 2026: Bourbon & Beyond, Louisville KY

Jan 2027: BourbonCon, Lexington KY

Bottle Releases >> 8 Stories

01/08: New Riff announces Single Malted Rye

01/08: Wyoming Whiskey Releases Highly Limited Barrel Strength #6429

01/12: Woodford Reserve and Compartés Return With Limited-Edition S’mores Chocolate Bar

01/13: Rebel Bourbon brings back Rebel Root Beer

01/16: One of Old Forester’s Most Popular Limited-Edition Bourbons Is Back

01/22: Maker’s Mark Cask Strength Bourbon Now Comes With An Age Statement

01/26: The Founders of Green Brier Distillery Just Relaunched Their Premium Bourbon Brand

01/27: Garrison Brothers to Release its First-Ever Bottled in Bond

Book Releases >> 0 Titles

Why You MUST Visit Glenns Creek Distilling in Frankfort, KY

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Is Glenns Creek the Most Authentic Stop on the Bourbon Trail?

In this episode of Bourbon Trail Tales and Tastes, we’re heading deep into the heart of Frankfort, Kentucky, to visit our 57th distillery: Glenns Creek Distilling. Located on the historic, rugged grounds of the abandoned Old Crow Distillery, this is anything but a corporate tour.

Join us as we sit down for an unforgettable 2.5-hour tasting with the legendary and “eccentric” owner and master distiller, David Meier. From sticking our fingers in the mash to hearing the wild stories of how David propagated yeast from the original Old Crow Fermenter #5, this visit was a birthday highlight we won’t soon forget!

🥃 Bottles on the Table

We’re tasting two unique expressions that prove “lazy” isn’t in the Glenns Creek vocabulary:

  • OCD #5 Bourbon: The flagship. Crafted with a high-corn mash bill and that historic Old Crow yeast, this 103.2 proof beauty is packed with notes of toffee, butterscotch, and deep barrel char.
  • Café Olé Bourbon: Imagine OCD #5 with a dark side. By adding chocolate malted barley, David has created a mocha-forward masterpiece. Think dark chocolate, espresso, and rich butterscotch.

Have you ever braved the backroads to find Glenns Creek? David Meier is a legend in the making—tell us your favorite “Cranky Dave” story or which of these bottles you’re hunting next in the comments below! 👇

❌YOUR BOURBON JOURNEY DOES NOT SELL ALCOHOL❌

🥃 Bottle Details: 

OCD #5 Bourbon

  • Classification: Kentucky Bourbon Whiskey
  • Company: Glenns Creek Distilling
  • Distillery: Glenns Creek Distilling
  • Mash Bill: 87% Corn, 8% Rye, 5% Barley
  • Yeast: Old Crow Yeast Fermenter #5
  • Age: 44 months
  • Proof: 103.2
  • MSRP: $66.04
  • Released: 2024
  • Other: Barrel 123, Bottle 3
  • Purchased: 02/23/24 for $66.04 at Glenns Creek Distilling

Café Olé Bourbon

  • Classification: Kentucky Bourbon Whiskey
  • Company: Glenns Creek Distilling
  • Distillery: Glenns Creek Distilling
  • Mash Bill: 87% Corn, 8% Rye, 5% Chocolate Malted Barley
  • Yeast: Old Crow Yeast Fermenter #5
  • Age: 56 months
  • Proof: 105.8
  • MSRP: $64.15
  • Released: 2024
  • Other: Barrel 26, Bottle 200
  • Purchased: 02/23/24 for $64.15 at Glenns Creek Distilling

❌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.

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Bourbon Trail Stop in Lawrenceburg: Larrikin Review!

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Lawrenceburg Bourbon Company (Larrikin) Tasting & Review! 🥃

Welcome back to Bourbon Trail Tales and Tastes! In Episode 53, we are taking you back to February 2024 for a visit to our 56th unique distillery stop: Lawrenceburg Bourbon Company (now rebranded as Larrikin).

Located just a stone’s throw from the legendary Wild Turkey, we first met this team at the Kentucky Bourbon Festival and knew we had to pull in when we saw the “Open” sign. While they weren’t running full distillery tours during our visit, the tasting room experience led by Emily was top-notch!

In this video, we finally crack open a bottle we’ve been hunting for in our “closet bourbon” collection: the Lawrenceburg One Cask Series (Barrel A2). This 116-proof Kentucky Straight Bourbon is a sourced gem (likely from the Bardstown/Green River family) that packs a surprising punch of citrus and silk.

In This Episode, We Cover:

  • The Distillery Visit: Our experience at Lawrenceburg Bourbon Co. and why we’re excited to go back for their new cigar lounge and tours.
  • The Bottle Breakdown: Mash bill, age, proof, and MSRP details for the One Cask Series.
  • Tasting Notes: * Nose: Honeysuckle, florals, and a sweet “pancake syrup” aroma.
    • Palette: Silky viscosity, orange peel, and a mid-palate pop of ginger.
    • Finish: A long, peppery, and smooth lingering finish.
  • The Value Verdict: Is a 4-year-old sourced bourbon worth the $90 price tag? We discuss why supporting craft distilleries matters.

Are you a fan of sourced Kentucky bourbon? Let us know in the comments if you’ve tried Lawrenceburg or Larrikin yet!

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🥃 Bottle Details: Lawrenceburg One Cask Series

  • Classification: Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
  • Mash Bill: 70% Corn / 21% Rye / 9% Malted Barley
  • Age: 4 Years
  • Proof: 116 (Cask Strength)
  • Distillery: Sourced (BBC/Green River)
  • Price: $90 (Purchased 02/23/24)

❌YOUR BOURBON JOURNEY DOES NOT SELL ALCOHOL❌

🚨REMEMBER TO ALWAYS DRINK RESPONSIBLY🚨

❓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.

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Exploring a Real Prohibition Speakeasy! | Pensive Distilling 

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Kentucky’s Hidden Speakeasy: Pensive Distilling Co. Tour & Review

Welcome back to Your Bourbon Journey! For Episode 52, we’re heading to Newport, Kentucky, to visit our 54th distillery: Pensive Distilling Co. Located in a historic building with deep ties to Newport’s “Sin City” past, this spot is a masterclass in blending horse racing tradition with gritty mob history.

In this episode, we explore their incredible distillery tour—led by the fantastic Jeff Cole—which takes you inside a genuine Prohibition-era speakeasy still featuring bullet holes in the walls! We also dive into their horse-racing roots (named after the 1944 Kentucky Derby winner) and discuss their award-winning food, from pimento cheese to their famous burgers.

Stick around for the tasting as we crack open a “forgotten bottle” of Pensive Single Barrel Bourbon (Batch 10). This 100-proof Kentucky Straight Bourbon surprised us with its unique flavor profile of nutty almond, bright orange citrus, and a popping rye spice.

📍 Visit Highlights

  • The Speakeasy: A historic room where the Mob used to run the show. Look out for the bullet holes and the lookout windows used to spot the police!
  • The Food: We’ve been back just for the kitchen. Don’t miss the horse-themed menu items like the “American Pharoah” burger or the “Strike the Gold.”
  • The Vibe: Horse racing memorabilia meets industrial distilling. A must-stop on the Northern Kentucky B-Line.

Did you know? Pensive Distilling is named after the Calumet Farm horse that won the Kentucky Derby and Preakness Stakes in 1944.

Support the Journey: If you enjoyed this tour of Newport’s bourbon scene, hit that SUBSCRIBE button and ring the bell for weekly distillery tours and honest whiskey reviews!

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🥃 Bottle Specs: Pensive Single Barrel Bourbon

  • Classification: Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
  • Distillery: Undisclosed (Sourced & Bottled by Pensive Distilling Co.)
  • Mash Bill: 70% Corn, 21% Rye, 9% Malted Barley
  • Age: NAS (Minimum 4 years)
  • Proof: 100 Proof
  • Batch/Bottle: Batch 10, Bottle 4
  • MSRP: $69 (Purchased at the distillery 11/18/23)

❌YOUR BOURBON JOURNEY DOES NOT SELL ALCOHOL❌

🚨REMEMBER TO ALWAYS DRINK RESPONSIBLY🚨

❓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.

#BourbonJourney #PensiveDistilling #KentuckyBourbon #WhiskeyReview #NewportKY #BourbonTrail #SingleBarrel #Speakeasy #BourbonTasting #CraftDistillery #KYBourbon #WhiskeyLover #DrinkLocal #BLine #KentuckyHistory