Bourbon

Is Vintage Bourbon Better? Four Roses Through the Eras

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Four Roses Through the Ages: A Vintage vs. Modern Bourbon Journey 🌹

Join us at Your Bourbon Journey for a truly special tasting as we “Quantum Leap” through three distinct eras of Four Roses. We’re traveling from the mid-century “Lost Years” to the “Golden” Japanese export era of the 1990s, finally returning to the bold resurgence of today’s Small Batch Select.

In this episode, Wayne and Rebecca head to the tasting table with two rare finds from Revival Vintage Spirits and one modern powerhouse. We explore how a brand that was once diluted for the American market kept its soul alive in Japan before reclaiming its throne as a top-tier Kentucky producer. From surprising butterscotch notes in a 1950s blend to the elegant, crystal-like beauty of the 1997 Super Premium, this is a masterclass in the evolution of flavor, proof, and history.

What we’re tasting today:

  • The “Lost” Years (1945–1960): A blended whiskey featuring Series 111 tax seals and a surprising hit of honeysuckle.
  • The “Golden” Export (1997 Super Premium): A Japanese market exclusive designed to look like high-end crystal, showcasing the delicate V and K yeast strains.
  • The “Resurgence” (Small Batch Select): The modern-day 104-proof powerhouse that proves Four Roses is back and better than ever.

Whether you’re a fan of “dusty” hunting or you just love a solid pour of Four Roses Small Batch, there is something in this timeline for every whiskey enthusiast.

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✴️ FOUR ROSES BLENDED WHISKEY (1945-1960)

  • Classification: Blended Whiskey
  • Distillery: Four Roses Lawrenceburg
  • 35% straight whiskies. 65% grain neutral spirits. 25% straight whiskies 4 years old. 4% straight whiskies 6 years old.
  • Age: NAS (researched at 4–6-year blends)
  • Proof: 86
  • Tax Seal: Red, Series 111

FOUR ROSES SUPER PREMIUM VINTAGE 1997

  • Classification: Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
  • Company: Kirin-Seagram Ltd.
  • Distillery: Four Roses Lawrenceburg
  • Bottled: Kirin-Seagram facility in Gotemba, Japan
  • Mash Bill – typically a blend of:
  • E: 75% Corn, 20% Rye, 5% Malted Barley
  • B: 60% Corn, 35% Rye, 5% Malted Barley
  • Yeast: Commonly the V (delicate fruit) and K (slight spice)
  • Age: Typically, at least 8 years old
  • Proof: 86
  • The Design: That clear bottle with the labeling printed directly on the glass was designed to look like high-end crystal for the Japanese “gift-giving” culture. It’s widely considered one of the most beautiful bottles Four Roses ever produced.

FOUR ROSES SMALL BATCH SELECT

  • Classification: Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
  • Company: Four Roses Distilling LLC
  • Distillery: Four Roses Lawrenceburg
  • Mash Bill – typically a blend of:
  • B: 60% Corn, 35% Rye, 5% Malted Barley
  • E: 75% Corn, 20% Rye, 5% Malted Barley
  • Yeast: 6 recipes – OBSV, OBSK, OBSF, OESV, OESK, & OESF
  • Age: Typically, a blend of 6 and 7-year-old bourbons
  • Proof: 104

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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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Romantic Bourbon Cocktail Recipe | The Velvet Letter

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A Dark Romance in a Glass: The Velvet Letter Bourbon Cocktail 🥃💌

Welcome to Your Bourbon Journey! Tonight, we are kicking off our two-part Valentine’s series with a spirit-forward “Dark Romance” build that is as sophisticated as a hand-written love letter. If a Manhattan is a classic evening gown, The Velvet Letter is its mysterious, dark velvet cloak. 

This cocktail is a modern riff on a Black Manhattan, designed for those who prefer complexity over chocolate clichĂŠs. We use the “ink” of Merlet Crème de Cassis for a deep, moody hue and the “perfume” of Strongwater Lavender Bitters to mimic the scented stationery of the Victorian era. At the heart of it all is a bold declaration: Old Grand-Dad 114 Bourbon. The high-rye spice and 114 proof ensure the whiskey stands tall against the herbal weight of Cinzano Sweet Vermouth.

📜 A Sip of History: The Story Behind the Ingredients

While The Velvet Letter is a modern creation, every ingredient carries a legacy of romance and tradition:

  • The “Ink” (Cassis): A French cafĂŠ staple since the mid-1800s, this blackcurrant liqueur acts as the “ink” of our letter. Historically used in aperitifs to sharpen the mind and appetite, it brings a deep, moody hue to the glass.
  • The “Bond” (Old Grand-Dad 114): A nod to the legendary Basil Hayden, this high-rye bourbon represents the “bold declaration” of our letter. Its spicy punch is a tribute to pre-Prohibition Manhattans, which were far more robust than today’s versions.
  • The “Perfume” (Lavender): In the Victorian era, lovers separated by distance would scent their stationery with lavender. Using lavender bitters isn’t just a flavor choice—it’s a historical homage to those fragrant, handwritten tokens of affection.

Whether you’re celebrating Valentine’s Day or just love a silky, berry-forward bourbon drink, The Velvet Letter is a must-try.

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📜 The Recipe

  • 2 oz Old Grand-Dad 114 Bourbon
  • 0.5 oz Cinzano Sweet Vermouth
  • 0.5 oz Merlet Crème de Cassis
  • 3 Dashes Strongwater Lavender Bitters
  • 2 Dashes Fee Brothers Molasses Bitters
  • Garnish: Expressed Lemon Peel (discarded) & Luxardo Cherry

Method: Stir with plenty of ice for 25–30 seconds. Strain into a chilled coupe.

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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.

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The Toronto Cocktail: The Old Fashioned’s Muscle Car 

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Upgrade Your Old Fashioned: The Toronto Cocktail 🏎️💨

If the Old Fashioned is your daily driver, consider The Toronto your high-performance muscle car. It’s got more torque, more grip, and a bold flavor profile that demands your attention!

In Episode 55 of Thirsty Thursday Cocktails, Rebecca breaks down this sophisticated “Bitter Old Fashioned.” Originally appearing in 1948, this classic cocktail swaps standard bitters and sugar for the powerhouse punch of Fernet-Branca and the rich, smoky depth of Bourbon Barrel Aged Maple Syrup.

We’re putting a unique twist on the original by using Old Grand-Dad 114. This high-rye bourbon (27% rye mashbill) brings the heat of a rye whiskey, while its signature “peanut and vanilla” sweetness acts as a silencer, perfectly taming the medicinal notes of the Fernet.

In this video, you’ll learn:

  • Why Fernet-Branca is the “seasoning” your home bar needs.
  • How to use maple syrup as a bridge between Kentucky bourbon and Canadian history.
  • The secret to balancing herbaceous “snap” with rich, coating sweetness.

Stay tuned until the end for the full tasting notes—from the bright orange oil nose to the dry, minty finish that will leave you wanting another sip.

🔔 Subscribe for more Thirsty Thursday cocktails! Next week, we’re kicking off our Valentine’s Day series with romantic sips you won’t want to miss.

🥃 The Recipe: The Toronto

  • 2 oz High-Rye Bourbon (Old Grand-Dad 114)
  • 1/4 oz Fernet-Branca
  • 1/4 oz Bourbon Barrel Aged Maple Syrup
  • 2 Dashes Angostura Bitters
  • Garnish: Large Orange Twist

Preparation: Combine ingredients in a mixing glass with plenty of ice. Stir for 20-30 seconds until well-chilled. Strain into a chilled coupe or a rocks glass over one large clear ice cube. Express the orange peel over the drink and drop it in.

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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.

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Double Oaked vs Barrel Proof: Pursuit United Showdown

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Cheers to another Wednesday pour! 🥃 Today, Wayne and Rebecca are diving into two incredible bottles from Pursuit United, courtesy of our friends Dawn and Michael from Chasing Neat.

Pursuit United is known for their transparency and master-level blending, bringing together premium distillates from Bardstown Bourbon Co., Finger Lakes Distilling, and a secret Tennessee partner. In this episode, we put two distinct expressions to the test: the rich, dessert-forward Double Oaked Bourbon and the bold, high-octane Triple Mash Bourbon Barrel Proof.

From “maple bacon” and “chocolate-covered peanuts” on the Double Oaked to the “confectionary sugar” and massive legs on the Triple Mash, these bottles did not disappoint. One of these even earned the title of an “all day, twice on Sunday” must-buy!

Which one won the “eye candy” approval? Watch to find out!

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🥃 Featured Whiskeys

  • Pursuit United Double Oaked Bourbon
    • Classification: Blend of Straight Bourbons
    • Proof: 108 | MSRP: $69.99
    • Tasting Notes: Maple bacon, chocolate, roasted peanuts, and dark caramel.
    • Link: Pursuit Double Oaked
  • Pursuit United Triple Mash Bourbon (Barrel Proof)
    • Classification: Blend of Straight Bourbons
    • Proof: 119.8 | MSRP: $79.99
    • Tasting Notes: Brown sugar, ginger, confectionary sweetness, and heavy viscosity.
    • Link: Pursuit Triple Mash

📍 The Mashbill Breakdown

  • Bardstown Bourbon Co (KY): 78% Corn, 10% Rye, 12% Malted Barley
  • Tennessee Distilling Partner: 80% Corn, 10% Rye, 10% Malted Barley
  • Finger Lakes Distilling (NY): 70% Local Corn, 20% Red Winter Wheat, 10% Malted Barley

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NOTE: The spirits in this review were provided to us by friends. 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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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.
  • CafĂŠ OlĂŠ 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! 👇

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🥃 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

CafĂŠ OlĂŠ 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

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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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Neeley Family Distillery Old Jett Flight: Full Review

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Neely Family Distillery’s Old Jet Bourbon Flight: 5 Unique Barrel Finishes! 🥃

Happy Monday, Bourbon Family! Today Your Bourbon Journey is taking a deep dive into the Old Jet line from Neeley Family Distillery. We’re spending January opening up the “2025 Vault”—bottles we picked up late last year but haven’t had the chance to share with you until now.

Named in honor of the 19th-century Jett Brothers Distilling Company, these “Old Jet” expressions by Royce Neeley bridge the gap between Kentucky history and modern finishing techniques. From a bright Sake barrel finish to a powerhouse 41-month Toasted French Oak, this flight is full of surprises!

🥃 The “Old Jet” Flight Lineup:

  • Sake Barrel Finish
    • Time: 8 Months | Proof: 101 | Mash Bill: High Rye
    • Notes: Light, bright, and fruity—the perfect “spring” bourbon.
  • Amarone & New Toasted French Oak
    • Time: 7 Months | Proof: 100 | Mash Bill: High Rye
    • Notes: A beautiful marriage of red wine grape notes and sweet vanilla.
  • Red Port Wine Barrel Finish
    • Time: 22 Months | Proof: 106.7 | Mash Bill: Wheated
    • Notes: Dark, deep, and jammy—like a fine Tawny port.
  • Maple Syrup Barrel Finish
    • Time: 7 Months | Proof: 107 | Mash Bill: Wheated
    • Notes: Rich and viscous without being overly sweet; the ultimate breakfast bourbon.
  • New Toasted French Oak
    • Time: 41 Months | Proof: 127.24 | Mash Bill: High Rye
    • Notes: A powerhouse bottle with creamy French vanilla custard and bold wood notes.

📍 Visit Neeley Family Distillery:

If you’re traveling between Cincinnati and Louisville on I-71, make sure to stop by Sparta, KY (near the Kentucky Speedway). Royce and Rebekah are doing incredible things with pot-distilled, uncut, and unfiltered spirits. Tell ’em Wayne and Rebekah from Your Bourbon Journey sent you!

Shop Online: Neeley Family Distillery Website

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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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Blind Barrels XVI Best of the Best Blind Tasting Results

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Is it a Buy? Blind Barrels Release XVI “Best of the Best” Tasting! 🥃

Happy Friday, whiskey lovers! Today, Wayne and Rebecca are diving into Blind Barrels Release XVI, aptly titled “The Best of the Best.” This curated box features standout picks from award-winning craft distilleries, and we’re putting our palates to the test to see if we can identify these mystery pours.

From a rare bourbon finished on local wood to a high-proof whiskey ranked in the Top 20 of 2025 by Whiskey Advocate, this flight is full of surprises! Are these regional gems worth the hunt? Watch as we break down the nose, palate, and finish of each mystery pour to decide: Is it a BUY?

🕵️ The Mystery Lineup (Revealed in Video!):

  • Sample A: A unique bourbon from the “Cherry Capital of the World,” finished on toasted cherry wood staves for a bright, floral profile.
  • Sample B: An “out of this world” 100-proof, four-grain Kentucky Straight Bourbon released to celebrate a total solar eclipse.
  • Sample C: A 115-proof American Single Malt from the ADI “Distillery of the Year,” aged for 7 years and rarely seen outside its home state.
  • Sample D: A powerhouse 125-proof Wheat Whiskey from Ohio, recently honored as one of the most prestigious spirits in the world for 2025.

Enjoying the journey? If you like honest whiskey talk and real-world buying advice, hit SUBSCRIBE and the bell to join us for every pour!

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

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‼️🚨SPOILER ALERT🚨‼️

Casey Jones Total Eclipse Four Grain Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey

  • Producer: Casey Jones Distillery – Hopkinsville, KY
  • Proof: 100 (50% ABV)
  • Age Statement: 4 years old
  • Mashbill: 75% Corn, 10% Wheat, 10% Rye, 5% Malted Barley (Mash Bill 4)
  • Size: 750ml

Mammoth Distilling Northern Bourbon – Straight Bourbon Whiskey finished on Toasted Cherry Wood Staves

  • Producer: Mammoth Distilling – Central Lake, MI
  • Proof: 95 (47.5% ABV)
  • Age Statement: 5 years old
  • Mashbill: 74.8% Wapsie Valley Corn, 21% Wheeler Rye, 4.2% Conlon Malted Barley
  • Size: 750ml

Middle West Spirits Cask Strength Straight Wheat Whiskey

  • Producer: Middle West Spirits – Columbus, OH
  • Proof: 125.2 (62.6% ABV)
  • Age Statement: 5 years old
  • Mashbill: 95% Ohio Soft Red Winter Wheat, 5% Two-Row Malted Barley
  • Size: 750ml

Southern Star American Single Malt Whiskey – Cask Strength (375ml)

  • Producer: Southern Distilling Company – Statesville, NC
  • Proof: 115.2 (57.6% ABV)
  • Age Statement: 7 years old
  • Mashbill: 100% Malted Barley
  • Size: 375ml

❌YOUR BOURBON JOURNEY DOES NOT SELL ALCOHOL❌

The Velvet Hammer: Making the Perfect Vieux CarrĂŠ

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The Ultimate Vieux CarrĂŠ: A New Orleans Masterclass in a Glass

If the Sazerac is the soul of New Orleans, the Vieux CarrĂŠ is its tuxedo. In Episode 54, we are diving deep into this “Big Easy” classic—a cocktail that is essentially what happens when a Manhattan and a Sazerac have a baby. Born in 1937 at the legendary Hotel Monteleone, the Vieux CarrĂŠ (French for “Old Square”) is a high-proof, split-base masterpiece that every whiskey lover needs in their repertoire.

In this video, we’re putting a “Bourbon Channel” twist on the recipe. We’ve selected Wild Turkey 101 Rye for that signature spice and “Turkey funk” to bridge the gap for bourbon fans. We’re pairing it with the luxurious Remy Martin 1738 Cognac and the nutty, Sherry-based Valdespino Sweet Vermouth for a build that feels like a “Reserve” selection.

Whether you’re a fan of New Orleans cocktail history or just looking for the perfect boozy nightcap, this velvety “velvet hammer” is the one.

Ingredients:

  • 1 oz Rye Whiskey (Wild Turkey 101)
  • 1 oz Cognac (Remy Martin 1738)
  • 1 oz Sweet Vermouth (Valdespino)
  • 0.25 oz BĂŠnĂŠdictine DOM
  • 2 dashes Peychaud’s Bitters
  • 2 dashes Angostura Bitters
  • Garnish: Cocktail cherry & Lemon peel

Method:

  1. Combine: Add all ingredients into a mixing glass with plenty of ice.
  2. Stir: Stir well (about 30-45 seconds) to properly chill and marry the Rye and Cognac.
  3. Strain: Strain into a chilled rocks glass (serve it neat or over a large clear ice rock).
  4. Garnish: Express the lemon peel over the top and drop in a premium cocktail cherry.

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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.

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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)

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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.

#Bourbon #KentuckyBourbon #WhiskeyTasting #LawrenceburgBourbonCo #Larrikin #BourbonTrail #SingleBarrel #CaskStrength #BourbonReview #WhiskeyLife #KentuckyStraightBourbon #BourbonJourney #DistilleryVisit #DrinkResponsibly #BourbonCommunity

Is Single Malt the Future? Stranahan’s & Westward Review

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In this episode of Your Bourbon Journey, Wayne and Rebecca explore the booming world of American Single Malt Whiskey. While we usually stick to bourbon, today we’re diving into two radical examples of how unique cask finishes—Sherry and Stout—can elevate 100% malted barley to a whole new level.

Whether you’re a scotch fan looking for American innovation or a bourbon lover curious about the “up and comer” of the industry, this tasting has something for you.

🥃 Featured Whiskies

Stranahan’s Sherry Cask (7-Year Age Statement)

A standout from Denver, Colorado, this expression takes Stranahan’s signature Rocky Mountain single malt and finishes it in 40-year-old Oloroso Sherry casks.

  • The Vibe: A “beautiful marriage” of barley and wine.
  • Awards: Bronze Medal at the 2025 World Whiskies Awards.
  • Tasting Notes: Invigorating nose of raisins and honey. The palate hits with a “kiss” of sherry that elevates the barley without overtaking it. Medium-to-long finish with buttery caramel and a hint of smoked cayenne.

Westward Stout Cask American Single Malt

Hailing from Portland, Oregon, Westward uses a brewer’s mindset, double-distilling a wash made from local barley and finishing it in Stout beer casks from Pacific Northwest craft breweries.

  • The Vibe: Like a “stout beer bathed in single malt.”
  • Tasting Notes: Luscious, roasted nose of cocoa and hazelnut. The palate is creamy and uniquely effervescent—Wayne describes it as “beer carbonation” meeting rich malt.
  • Pro Tip: This was a standout from our Flaviar Advent Calendar!

What is your favorite American Single Malt? Let us know in the comments!

❌YOUR BOURBON JOURNEY DOES NOT SELL ALCOHOL❌

✴️ Stranahan’s Sherry Cask

  • Classification: American Single Malt
  • Company: Stranahan’s Colorado Whiskey
  • Distillery: Stranahan’s Colorado Whiskey (Denver)
  • Mash Bill: 100% Malted Barley
  • Age: 7 Years
  • Other: Finished in 40-year-old Sherry casks
  • Proof: 90
  • MSRP: $74.99
  • Purchased: 12/31/25 for $86.29 at High Spirits in Evansville IN

✴️ Westward Stout Cask American Single Malt

  • Classification: American Single Malt
  • Company: Westward Whiskey
  • Distillery: Westward Distillery (Portland, OR)
  • Mash Bill: 100% Malted Barley
  • Age: Typically, 5 + 1
  • Proof: 92
  • MSRP: $89.95
  • Purchased: 12/12/25 for $66.30 at Flaviar Online

❌YOUR BOURBON JOURNEY DOES NOT SELL ALCOHOL❌

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As of January 19, 2026, the American Single Malt (ASM) category has officially completed its first full year as a federally recognized standard of identity.

While distillers have been making single malt in the U.S. for decades, the one-year anniversary of the TTB (Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau) ruling marks a pivotal shift from a “grassroots movement” to a legally protected class of spirit, similar to Bourbon or Scotch.

The Milestone: One Year of Official Status

The final rule was published in late 2024 and became effective on January 19, 2025. This past year has focused on three major transitions:

  • Label Integrity: Distillers have begun transitioning their COLA (Certificate of Label Approval) filings to the new “American Single Malt Whisky” type, ensuring that the liquid in the bottle meets the strict 100% malted barley and “single distillery” requirements.
  • Global Competition: For the first year, U.S. producers have been able to export their spirits under a formal, government-backed definition, which is crucial for trade agreements and competing with Scotch and Irish whiskeys in international markets.
  • Retail Clarity: Over the last 12 months, major liquor retailers and bars have increasingly updated their menus and shelving to include dedicated “American Single Malt” sections, moving them away from the generic “American Whiskey” or “Other” categories.

🚨REMEMBER TO ALWAYS DRINK RESPONSIBLY🚨

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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.

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