Bourbon Trail Tales & Tastes Episode 4 – Maker’s Mark

February 28, 2025February 25, 2025 / bourbonjourney / Leave a comment

Makers Mark DISTILLERY Secrets You Never Knew

In Episode 4 of Bourbon Trail Tales & Tastes, we proudly recount our unforgettable first visit to Maker’s Mark Distillery in Loretto, Kentucky. Join us as we remember that warm and sunny day, April 23, 2022. This day marked our fourth stop on our inaugural weekend of the Kentucky Bourbon Trail, where we collected our fourth stamp in our trail book. We share invaluable insights about the Maker’s Mark grounds, distillery, and overall experience. To enhance our memories, we open a bottle of Maker’s Mark, allowing us to relive the original experience and explore all that it has to offer, adding yet another highlight to 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.

Maker’s Mark Bourbon

Classification: Straight Bourbon
Company: Beam Suntory
Distillery: Maker’s Mark
Release Date: Ongoing
Proof: 90
Age: NAS (Aged 6-7 years according to the company)
Mashbill: 70% Corn, 16% Wheat, 14% Malted Barley
Color: Honey
MSRP: $30 / 750mL (2024)

Unveiling February 2025’s TOP Whiskey!

February 28, 2025February 28, 2025 / bourbonjourney / Leave a comment

Join us for a blind tasting as we embark on a journey to determine which whiskey truly reigns supreme! Throughout this experience, you will observe as we rank and compare a selection of four whiskeys that were selected from our February 2025 tastings.

OUR FOUR FINALISTS (in alphabetical order):
*PENELOPE HAVANA COOPER SERIES
*SILK VELVET WHISKEY, SINGLE BARREL 7
*STAGG 24D
*WOODFORD RESERVE DOUBLE DOUBLE OAKED

Through a blind process, we evaluate each spirit for nose, taste, finish, and overall appeal. We rank them from 4th place to 1st place and then reveal each one. So grab your glasses and let’s raise a toast to an unforgettable evening brimming with celebration. Cheers!

DETAILS REGARDING OUR FOUR FINALISTS (in alphabetical order):

PENELOPE HAVANA COOPER SERIES
Classification: Four Grain Straight Bourbon Whiskey
Distilled By: MGP – Ross & Squibb
Brand: Penelope
Mashbill: 74% Corn, 16% Wheat, 7% Rye, 3% Malted Barley
Age: 4 years on the Four Grain Straight Bourbon Whiskey
Age: 12 months in Caribbean rum casks
Age: 1 month in maple syrup barrels
Proof: 93
Purchased: 02/15/25 for $149.99 at High Spirits, Evansville, IN
Original YouTube Review:

SILK VELVET WHISKEY, SINGLE BARREL 7
Classification: Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
Company: Hargis Spirits, LLC – Henderson, KY
Distiller: Jacob Call
Distilled: In Kentucky
Process: Sour Mash
Bottled By: Western Kentucky Distilling Co.
Mashbill: 75% Corn, 21% Rye, 4% Malted Barley
Barrels: New White Oak Barrels with a #4 Char Level
Age: 6 Years
Proof: 107
Released: December 9, 2024 (Currently only in Kentucky)
MSRP: $79.99
Purchased: 01/23/25 for $82.79 at Beverage Barn, Henderson, KY
Original YouTube Review:

STAGG 24D
Classification: Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
Company: Sazerac Company
Distillery: Buffalo Trace Distillery
Mash Bill Percentages: Undisclosed
Age: NAS (at least 4 years; rumored to be around 7-9 years old)
Proof: 127.4
MSRP: $70
Released: Bottled in December 2024 but released in January 2025
Other: Barrel Proof, Unfiltered
Purchased: 02/21/25 for $99.99 at Neat Bottle Shop in Louisville KY
Original YouTube Review:

WOODFORD RESERVE DOUBLE DOUBLE OAKED
Type: Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
Distilled By: Woodford Reserve
Mashbill: 72% Corn, 18% Rye, 10% Malted Barley
Aged: 5-7 Years then up to 2 Years in a second barrel
Proof: 90.4
MSRP: $199.99 (700 ml bottle)
Released: January 2025
Purchased 02/01/25 for $299.99 at High Spirits, Evansville, IN
Original YouTube Review:

**REMEMBER TO ALWAYS DRINK RESPONSIBLY**

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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 producers for this review. This is simply our opinion based on what we tasted on this day. Please drink responsibly.

Bourbon Trail Tales & Tastes – Episode 3 Preservation Distillery

February 27, 2025February 25, 2025 / bourbonjourney / Leave a comment

Is Preservation Distillery Worth the Trip to Kentucky?

In Episode 3 of Bourbon Trail Tales & Tastes, we recount our visit to Preservation Distillery in Bardstown, Kentucky. Join us as we vividly remember that warm and sunny day, April 23, 2022. It marked our third stop on our inaugural weekend of the Kentucky Bourbon Trail, where we collected our third stamp in our trail book. We eagerly share insights gained about Preservation and the work they are doing, complemented by a guided tasting featuring three interesting selections. To elevate the experience, we delve into a tasting of a bottle we purchased that day, Very Olde St. Nick Estate Reserve Summery Rye Whiskey, highlight another facet of Our Bourbon Journey.

Very Olde St. Nick

Estate Reserve
Summery Rye Whiskey
Produced and Bottled by Old St. Nick Distillery
Bardstown, KY
81 Proof
Typically, at least 5 years old
The Summer Rye is usually selected prior to the heat of the summer.
Paid: $169.00

Bourbon Trail Tales & Tastes – Episode 2 Bardstown Bourbon Company

February 26, 2025February 25, 2025 / bourbonjourney / Leave a comment

The Hidden Secrets of Bardstown Bourbon Company Nobody Knows

In Episode 2 of Bourbon Trail Tales & Tastes, we reflect what inspired us to start this journey, acquiring our second stamp, and the unforgettable first-time experiences we had that day, April 23, 2022. This remarkable adventure unfolded at Bardstown Bourbon Company, where we recount our first visit, share our favorite memories, and delve into the delightful flavors we tasted for the very first time. To top it off, we explore a tasting of a bottle we purchased that day, Bardstown Discovery #7, showcasing the essence of our Bourbon Trail journey.

Discovery Series™ #7

Blended Whiskey

Description: The Discovery Series showcases the art of blending hand-selected, supremely aged bourbon. For each release, team members throughout the distillery taste, analyze, and vote on the best recipe. It is a celebration of our collaborative spirit, working together to create something unique and spectacular.

Irresistible Smoked Maple Old Fashioned!

February 25, 2025February 25, 2025 / bourbonjourney / Leave a comment

In episode 1 of Thirsty Thursday Cocktails, we’re diving into a fantastic winter cocktail: the Smoked Maple Old Fashioned. An Old Fashioned isn’t just any drink; it’s a timeless bourbon cocktail that commands respect. At its core, this classic is expertly crafted with whiskey, bitters, sugar, and water, and elegantly served over ice in a rocks glass. It typically boasts a garnish of vibrant orange slice or zest, accompanied by a cocktail cherry.

The beauty of the Old Fashioned lies in its versatility, allowing you to tailor it to seasonal ingredients and your unique palate. In this video, we’re proudly using Green River Full Proof Bourbon as our spirit of choice. The “sugar” element comes from Pappy & Company’s Bourbon Barrel-Aged Pure Maple Syrup, while the bitters are the Fee Brothers Black Walnut Bitters. Our garnish will feature zesty orange rind and exquisite Luxardo Cherries. Adding to the excitement, today’s recipe includes smoking the cocktail for an unforgettable twist.

RECIPE: SMOKED MAPLE OLD FASHIONED
2 oz. Bourbon – Green River Full Proof
1-2 Bar Spoons of Real Bourbon Barrel-Aged Pure Maple Syrup
3 Dashes Black Walnut Bitters
Use of Cocktail Smoking Kit
Garnish – Orange Zest and Luxardo Cherry
Ice Ball

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What Makes Little Book the Infinite Edition 1 SO SPECIAL?

February 25, 2025 / bourbonjourney / Leave a comment

In this bourbon review episode, we are excited to unveil and indulge in the 2024 Little Book the Infinite Edition 1. This highly sought-after release, which launched in September 2024, is set to become a staple in the world of limited edition releases. We will dissect every aspect, from its captivating nose to its complex palate and gratifying finish. Join us as we share our insights on why this exceptional bottle, crafted by three generations of master distillers, Booker Noe, Fred Noe, and Freddie Noe, is undeniably a worthy investment.

ABOUT THIS BOTTLE
Classification: Straight Bourbon
Company: Beam Suntory
Distillery: Jim Beam
Mashbill: Undisclosed Blend of four bourbons:
-Booker Noe’s Component: Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, Aged 20 years
‍-Fred Noe’s Component: Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, Aged 14 years
-Freddie Noe’s Component: Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, Aged 7 years
-Shared Family Component: Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, Aged 8 Years
Age: Blend of bourbons aged 7-20 years
Proof: 119.3
Release Date: August 2024
Price Paid: $200.00

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Bourbon Trail Tales & Tastes – Episode 1 Jim Beam

February 25, 2025February 25, 2025 / bourbonjourney / Leave a comment

What Happens When You Visit Jim Beam for the FIRST TIME?

In Episode 1 of Bourbon Trail Tales & Tastes, we reflect on the moment we acquired our Kentucky Bourbon Trail stamp book, April 22, 2022, marking the beginning of our exciting journey with our very first stamp collected and the unforgettable experiences we had that day. This remarkable adventure unfolded at none other than the historic and iconic James B. Beam Distilling, where we recount our first visit, share our favorite memories, and delve into the delightful flavors we tasted for the very first time. To top it off, we explore a tasting of a bottle we purchased that day, Legent, showcasing the essence of our Bourbon Trail journey.

Legent

Jim Beam’s Master Distiller, Fred Noe, collaborated with Shinji Fukuyo of Suntory to create Legent Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey.

Legent is a blend of 5 year old, unfinished bourbon from Jim Beam and bourbon that has been finished in ex-wine casks and ex-Sherry casks sourced from Spain. Sources indicate that the finished component is about 60% ex-wine and 40% ex-Sherry.

94 Proof

Price paid $49.99 (2022)

Experience the VIP Repeal Day Dinner at Starlight Distillery

December 14, 2024 / bourbonjourney / Leave a comment

December 14, 2024
By Rebecca Herman McBrayer

We invite you to experience, through our eyes, an exceptional VIP Repeal Day Dinner Event that took place at Starlight Distillery on Friday, Dec 6th. This elevated evening kicked off with engaging interactions among fellow bourbon enthusiasts and the esteemed Starlight Distillery Master Distillers and Bourbon Experts. We relished every moment of this celebration, showcasing the perfect marriage of food and spirits with a meticulously crafted multi-course tasting menu. Each chef-prepared course was expertly paired with a pour from one of the five Family Reserve releases, accompanied by insightful discussions led by the Starlight Distillery experts who hand-selected each bottle.

Following dinner, we had the opportunity to purchase each Family Reserve offering, in addition to special Repeal Day Releases.

To see the event unfold and hear from Ted, Black, and Christian Huber about each bottle, watch this video.

Embracing the Craft,
Wayne & Rebecca

Tasting Notes for Evan Williams Single Barrel

November 27, 2024 / bourbonjourney / Leave a comment

November 27, 2024
By Rebecca Herman McBrayer

Wayne and I selected this Evan Williams Single Barrel for a formal bourbon tasting because we realized that we have tasted it several times when out and about but our bottles at home were unopened. We picked up one bottle at a terrific dinner hosted by Evan Williams (great event!), and another at the 2024 Kentucky Bourbon Festival.

Tasting Notes: Evan Williams Single Barrel Vintage Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey

Please be sure to read our approach to Tasting Whiskey if you haven’t already.

Mashbill – 78% corn, 12% malted barley, 10% Rye
Age – 7-8 Years
Proof – 86.6
Price Paid – $49.99 (plus tax)

Color – Golden honey.

Aroma – Honey is very dominant and then there are notes of cinnamon. As it opens up, the light and pleasant nose includes vanilla and graham crackers.

Tasted Neat – Like the nose, the honey it right up front on the palate with notes of vanilla and cinnamon. It is reminiscent of a vanilla wafer, or vanilla yogurt with drizzled honey, as well as a honey and cinnamon graham cracker.

Finish – While not a strong finish, it does linger with cinnamon and oak.

Tasted with dried cranberry – This pairing is very light, bright, and with orange zest. It is also incredibly sweet, with hints of confectionary sugar, but the honey is gone. The finish is medium.

Tasted with a pecan – Notes of chocolate, caramel, and nutmeg really come forward with this pairing. The finish is long and lingering with some sweet barrel notes.

Tasted with dark chocolate – Interestingly, this pairing returned the honey and graham cracker. It tastes similar to a honey graham dipped in chocolate. Unfortunately, the finish is almost non-existent.

Final Notes and Video

The Evan Williams Single Barrel boasts a rich golden honey color. The aroma is dominated by honey, perfectly complemented by enticing notes of cinnamon. As it opens up, the light and inviting nose reveals layers of vanilla and graham crackers. Tasting it neat elevates the honey flavor, which takes center stage on the palate, harmonizing beautifully with vanilla and cinnamon. The experience is akin to indulging in a vanilla wafer or vanilla yogurt drizzled with honey, alongside the delightful combination of honey and cinnamon graham crackers. While the finish may not intense, it lingers with satisfying notes of cinnamon and oak.

While exploring the various pairings, we discovered that none were bad, indicating that the Evan Williams Single Barrel has versatility and could be easily paired with a variety of menu items. Wayne found the dried cranberry most interesting while I leaned toward what the pecan brought forward.

Its 7-8 year age helps bring character to this low-proof bourbon. While we believe this could be improved as a 100 proof offering, it might be a solid selection for someone who prefers a lower proof bourbon as it does have an interesting flavor profile. However, with other major distilleries starting to offer this age statement in the $25-30 range, its price point of $50 might deter some possible fans.

Embracing the Craft,
Rebecca & Wayne

Photos and video by Rebecca Herman McBrayer

NOTE: The bourbon 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.

Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey

Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey: Such whiskeys have all the requirements of bourbon: Made in the U.S, distilled at <= 160 proof, barreled at <= 125 proof, aged in new, charred oak containers, bottled at >= 80 proof. Straight bourbon means it is aged at least 2 years (and must have an age statement if less than 4). In addition, to be Kentucky Straight Bourbon, it has the additional requirement that it must be produced and aged at least 1 year in the state of Kentucky. For additional information on bourbon requirements, please read this post – Bourbon Whiskey.

Exploring the 2024 Linkumpinch Cask Strength Special Reserve

November 23, 2024 / bourbonjourney / Leave a comment

November 23, 2024
By Rebecca Herman McBrayer

In this article, Wayne and I taste the Linkumpinch Kentucky Bourbon Festival Distillers’ Row Series 2024. It is a 5-Year-Old, Cask Strength Single Barrel Bourbon, offered at 117.5 Proof.

During the 2024 Kentucky Bourbon Festival, we acquired several exceptional bottles from the KBF Distillers’ Row Series. Among these, one bottle came from Dueling Grounds Distillery. Having visited them in Franklin, KY, we can unequivocally say that their regular offerings of the 4-Year-Old Linkumpinch Bourbon, whether in a cask strength single barrel version or a small batch of Bottle-in-Bond, are nothing short of outstanding.

Thus, when we learned that they would be showcasing their Special Reserve at this year’s KBF, we eagerly visited them on the very first evening at Bourbon in the Air. Engaging in a great conversation with Marc Dottore, the owner, while tasting their remarkable 5-Year-Old Special Reserve was a delight. He generously signed our bottle as well! We might have waited two months to open it, but let me tell you—good things truly come to those who wait!

Tasting Notes: Linkumpinch Kentucky Bourbon Festival Distillers’ Row Series 2024

Please be sure to read our approach to Tasting Whiskey if you haven’t already.

Mashbill – 66% corn, 22% Red Winter Wheat, 12% Malted Barley
Age – 5 Years
Other – Cask Strength Single Barrel
Proof – 117.5
Price Paid – $77.50 (plus tax)

Color – Medium to dark mahogany

Aroma – There is a nice nuttiness to the aroma as well as a soft sweetness of dark honey and ripe apples. Toasted wheat bread along with hints of oak and tobacco.

Tasted Neat – Again, the nuttiness is right there on the palate along with warm buttered honey wheat toast. There is a cinnamon spice and oak as well. Overall, it has a very creamy mouthfeel.

Finish – Black pepper is dominant but the finish is long, comfortable, and welcoming. There are some nice sweet notes as well as oak and pipe tobacco.

Tasted with dried cranberry – This brought the cinnamon to the forefront and it is nearly a spice bomb. There is a brightness of orange zest but with Mexican spices sprinkled over it.

Tasted with a pecan – The pecan brought out a lot of tannins and cinnamon. Interesting, the nuttiness returned and the sweet notes are more like caramel now.

Tasted with dark chocolate – The chocolate dominates and makes it even more creamy. It is quite a spicy cinnamon but with a hint of brown sugar.

Final Notes and Video

With its bold medium to dark mahogany hue, this drink clearly promises an explosion of flavor. The nose reveals enticing aromas of rich nuttiness paired with the luscious sweetness of dark honey and ripe apples. Notes of toasted wheat bread, complemented by subtle hints of oak and tobacco, stand out prominently. Sipping it neat, the nuttiness greets the palate alongside the inviting taste of warm buttered honey wheat toast. A delightful cinnamon spice and oak also present themselves with assurance. The overall experience boasts a luscious, creamy mouthfeel. On the finish, black pepper takes center stage, yet the conclusion is long, comforting, and welcoming, further enhanced by pleasant sweet notes, oak, and pipe tobacco.

This was certainly worth the wait. The only problem is that we are now wishing we had a second bottle. That said, we do have several bottles of their 4-Year-Old cask strength and they are excellent as well. If you are interested in purchasing one of their regular offerings, Seelbach’s is their official partner. We highly recommend them for bourbon and a visit to learn more about Dueling Grounds!

Embracing the Craft,
Rebecca & Wayne

Photos and video by Rebecca Herman McBrayer

Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey