Bourbon & Whiskey News: October 2024 Insights

11/01/24
Curated by Rebecca Herman McBrayer

Bourbon & Whiskey News Highlights from October 2024 >> 40 Stories!

In October 2024, the bourbon and whiskey industry experienced remarkable advancements, highlighted by an impressive boom in whiskey tourism and the expansion of festivals, alongside significant distillery growth. American whiskey production is on the rise, defying stagnant sales. Exciting new bourbons were launched from various brands, and the Kentucky Bourbon Trail proudly celebrated its 25th anniversary.

Whiskey Tourism Market Analysis Report 2024: Rise in Gastro-Distilleries, Growth of Whiskey Festivals, US Expansion – Size, Share, Trends, Opportunity, and Forecasts to 2029

Investing in America’s Spirit: CaskX Highlights Bourbon Investment at 2024 Kentucky Bourbon Festival

Why American whiskey is raising its production while sales stay flat – Category Intel

California becomes powerhouse in bourbon business

American whiskey growth stalls in US

InvestBev Commits $50 Million to Fuel Growth in the Distillery and Bourbon Barrel Sector

MGP Ingredients Declares $0.12 Quarterly Dividend

Bardstown Bourbon Company Completes Most Significant Distillery Expansion to Date

Journeyman Opens a New Complex in Valparaiso, Indiana

Legendary Master Distiller, John Campbell, Joins Sespe Creek Distillery

Distillery building ranks among top Henderson projects in September

These two founders left Maker’s Mark to create their own distillery

Descendants of Bardstown’s founders set up distillery in Muhlenberg Co.

Green River Distilling Co. coming to Whiskey Row

Louisville distillery and brand to sell at auction in December

2.55 million tours and counting: Kentucky Bourbon Trail by the numbers

Kentucky Bourbon Trail | Distilleries celebrate 25 years since the iconic trail began

Awards Announced >> 5 Stories

IWSC announces 2024 Spirits trophy winners

Heaven Hill named Most Awarded US Distillery at international spirits competition

Kentucky Peerless Distilling Co. Awarded Bourbon Trophy 2024

See how Kentucky bourbon, distilleries ranked in USA TODAY’s 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards

Michter’s Receives The Industry’s Highest Honor: The 2024 World’s Most Admired Whiskey

Bourbon Festival News & Updates >> 1 Story

Record-setting attendance helps Bourbon & Beyond win national Festival of Year award

Mary Dowling Whiskey Company Introduces Winter Wheat Bourbon: A Toasted Barrel Masterpiece

Widow Jane Releases 20-Year Black Opal Bourbon

Blade and Bow Re-Releases 22-Year-Old Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey

King of Kentucky Bourbon Releases Seventh Edition

2XO Announces Release of The Sneakerhead Blend Bourbon

RD1 Spirits Unveils 10-Year Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey Finished in Brazilian Amburana Wood

Bardstown Bourbon Co. Releases Blackberry Farm Collab Whiskey

Milam & Greene Whiskey Barn Owl Single Barrel Bourbon is Ready to Fly

Brother’s Bond adds 7YO bonded Bourbon

Yellowstone Bourbon announces 2024 Bourbon Giftpack

Woodford Reserve Releases Master’s Collection Madeira Cask Finish

Jim Beam® Unveils Limited-Edition Winter Reserve To Unwrap The Spirit Of The Holidays

Baker’s Bourbon Launches New High-Rye Expression

A Very Rock n’ Roll Holiday: FEW Spirits Releases Icons of Rock Collection Featuring Whiskey Collabs with Legends of Modern Rock

Rabbit Hole Distillery Releases Limited Edition 8-Year-Old Boxergrail Founder’s Collection

‘Distillery of the Decade’ Releases Alberta Premium Batch 10 Legacy Reserve

Buffalo Trace Releases 2024 Antique Collection

Top Bourbon & Whiskey News from September 2024

10/01/24
Curated by Rebecca Herman McBrayer

Bourbon & Whiskey News Highlights from September 2024 >> 30 Stories!

In September 2024, the bourbon and whiskey industry showcased significant developments including market reports, distillery news, and new bottle releases. Highlights featured long-standing icons like Jimmy Russell’s 70th Anniversary, new distilleries breaking ground, and the reveal of five inductees into the Kentucky Bourbon Hall of Fame, reflecting ongoing growth and innovation.

Bourbon Spirits Market Report 2024: Industry Growth, Size, Share, Trends, Analysis, Forecast to 2033

Bourbon Spirits Market Segments, Drivers, Restraints, And Trends For 2024-2033

Bourbon Whiskey Market Insights: Navigating Opportunities for Growth

An Angel’s Envy Founder Reveals Plans for Ambitious New Distillery

Kentucky bourbon icon Jimmy Russell celebrates his 70th anniversary at Wild Turkey

Kentucky Distillers’ Association Welcomes Chicken Cock Whiskey as newest member

More than 230 years of history bottled at James B. Beam Distilling Company

Gov. Beshear joins Henderson Distilling Co. to break ground on $5M startup distillery

Casey Jones Distillery kicks off Mash Maker’s Experience

Tennessee Whiskey Trail Adds Two New Members

Kentucky’s Bourbon Boat Might Be The Best Way To Experience The Bourbon Trail

Awards Announced >> 1 Story

Kentucky Bourbon Hall of Fame reveals five new inductees

Bourbon Festival News & Updates >> 1 Story

2025 Kentucky Bourbon Festival Announces Dates

Filmland Spirits Releases QUADRAFORCE BOURBON: Behold the Blend of 4

Bardstown Bourbon Co. Introduces Silver Oak Finish, Discovery 12 in Time for Bourbon Heritage Month

Dierks Bentley To Introduce ROW 94 Whiskey

Maker’s Mark Debuts Its Most Mature Bourbon: Cellar Aged Returns With Highly Anticipated Second Release

Press Release: Wyoming Whiskey Introduces National Parks No. 4 and Old Faithful

Jack Daniel’s goes back to Coy Hill

Chattanooga Whiskey Bottled in Bond: Spring 2018 Vintage Release

O.H. Ingram River Aged 2024 Flagship Bourbon has Arrived

Costco’s Whiskey Advent Calendar Is Back For 2024: Here’s What’s Inside

Widow Jane releases amburana-finished Bourbon

Town Branch Overproof Kentucky Straight Whiskey Release – 90% Bourbon Whiskey and 100% Kentucky

Penelope Bourbon introduces premium 2024 Estate Collection

Rare Character Whiskey to Launch New Line “Rare Character Limited Release”

Barrell Craft Spirits® Unveils Newest Bourbon Blend in its Cask Finish Series: Ice Wine

McBrayer Legacy Spirits to Release Cedar Brook Wheated

Castle & Key Releases Cask Strength Wheated Bourbon

The One Bourbon You Should Bring Home From Every State

Not a Bottle, But Related

Cohiba Releases First Cigar Aged in Weller Bourbon Barrels

August 2024 Industry Highlights

09/01/24
Curated by Rebecca Herman McBrayer

Bourbon & Whiskey News Highlights from August 2024 >> 52 stories!

The August 2024 Bourbon & Whiskey News encompass a wide range of industry updates. Notable highlights include market growth projections, distillery expansions, award recognitions, festival updates, and new bottle releases. Industry shifts like self-distribution benefits and market demands in premium whiskey are also discussed, reflecting a dynamic and evolving landscape in the bourbon and whiskey sector.

MGP Ingredients Declares $0.12 Quarterly Dividend

Distilleries benefit from new law allowing them to self-distribute

If US whiskey glut does emerge, major distillers will be fine – but small may suffer

Irish Whiskey Market size is set to grow by USD 2.40 billion from 2024-2028, Increasing demand for premium whiskey boost the market, Technavio

Kentucky Distillers’ Association Joins Prestigious World Spirits Alliance

‘A fast-growing industry,’ with more potential: 10 years in, Indiana’s craft distillers look ahead

CT’s craft distillery industry has grown, but distribution among key challenges

Drink to that! NY Gov. Hochul signs law allowing distilleries to ship direct to consumers

Single Malt Whiskey Market Overview & Growth Rate Forecast for the Next 5 Years: JB Dewar, Bacardi, Beam Suntory

Horse Soldier Bourbon investing in Somerset with planned dis­tillery

Jim Beam distillery expanding into Fulton County

RD1 Spirits creates R&D master distiller role

Jackson Purchase Distillery opens $10M rickhouse

Infamous Whiskey Announces Distilled Spirits Plant (DSP) Permit Approval

Ole Smoky Distillery Makes the Inc. 5000 for the Fifth Year in a Row

Ingram River Aged Keeps Expanding, Purchases 24 Acres of Land

Jim Beam celebrates 90 years in the Kentucky bourbon industry

Whiskey Thief Distilling Company To Expand Signature Single-Barrel Tasting & Thieving Experience Into Louisville

Bourbon distiller Maker’s Mark plans $18.5 million expansion

Green River seeing record number of visitors

Distiller seeks $5m for community-led distillery

Kentucky Castle owner plans new $92 million Versailles whiskey distillery

25th anniversary of the Kentucky Bourbon Trail

Whiskey Americana: 4 of the Best Whiskey Trails of the South

Casey Jones Distillery Launches First-Ever Mash Maker’s Experience As Exclusive Bourbon Trail Tour Stop in Hopkinsville, KY

Awards Announced >> 5 stories

Kentucky Peerless Distilling Co. Wins Tripadvisor Travelers’ Choice Award 2024

New Riff Distilling Wins ‘Best High Rye Bourbon’ at New Orleans Spirits Competition

Elkhart, Indiana: Golden Spike Distillery Wins National Award for Its Bourbon

St. Augustine Named “2024 Distillery Of The Year” By The ADI

Women of Whiskey WOW Award Winners 2024

Bourbon Festival News & Updates >> 5 stories

Bourbon & Beyond Daily Music Schedule Announced And New App Launched

Bourbon & Beyond Still has Tickets Available

Bourbon on the Banks has Tickets Available

St. Louis Bourbon Festival has Tickets Available

The Kentucky Bourbon Festival is SOLD OUT

Woodford Reserve Releases Blended Malt Whiskey

2XO Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey Announces French Oak, A New Release in the Award Winning Oak Series

Elijah Craig Launches Toasted Rye Whiskey

Four Roses 2024 Limited Edition Small Batch Bourbon To Launch September 14

Three Chord Bourbon Announces 2024 Backstage Series Bourbon Release with The Allman Brothers Band

Ross & Squibb Distillery celebrates the repeal of Prohibition with the release of Remus Repeal Reserve Series VIII

On The Tenth Anniversary of Its Debut, Michter’s is Releasing Its US*1 Toasted Barrel Finish Bourbon Once Again

Penelope Bourbon introduces tastes of Spain with Valencia

Buzzard’s Roost Celebrates Five Years with Pair of Releases

Lux Row Distillers releases the third edition of its Blood Oath Trilogy featuring Pacts 7, 8 and 9

Old Forester announces 2024 Birthday Bourbon

Old Elk® Distillery Announces its First Straight Wheat Whiskey Finished in French Limousine Cognac Casks

Bardstown Bourbon Co. Releases High Wheat Bourbon

Heritage Distilling Co. Launches “War Dogs” Whiskey to Honor U.S. Military Working Dogs

Little Book® Announces Inaugural Series, ‘The Infinite’, A Perpetual Tribute To Three Generations Of James B. Beam Distilling Co. Master Distillers

Heaven Hill Reveals 2024 Parker’s Heritage Release: 14-Year-Old Kentucky Malt Whiskey

The Angel’s Envy Line Expands With Its First Cask Strength Rye Whiskey

Booker’s Bourbon Announces New Annual Series: The Reserves

August 2024 Farmer & Frenchman Green River Dinner Pairing

August 2, 2024
By Rebecca Herman McBrayer

As you might have gleaned through other articles, Wayne and I thoroughly enjoy Green River – their spirits, distillery, and most importantly, their people. Therefore, when we learned of their dinner pairing event with Farmer & Frenchman (a place we have wanted to visit), we immediately got tickets for the August 1st event.

We arrived in Robards, KY and were immediately taken by the beauty of the surroundings. There were lovely buildings, little cabins, grape vines, and green for miles.

We had to get a few pictures before the event began!

When we checked in, we were escorted to a private table. In itself, this was different as we are accustomed to such events being at shared tables.

The dining was somewhat divided – the more formal area with chandeliers and white tablecloths and the enclosed patio section where we were seated.

Our cocktail and three neat pours of Green River.

Four Course Meal

The first two courses were seafood based and that meant that Wayne got double helpings. He enjoyed each offering but felt the Creole Caponata was his favorite of the two.

Description – Creole Caponata: Crawfish, sweet and sour peppers, roasted eggplant, and creole spices on toast. Served with Gold Rush Cocktail with Green River Wheated Bourbon.

Description – Fried Scallops: Deep fried scallop pieces, grilled polenta, and green tomato chutney. Served with Green River Bourbon 90 proof.

The Waygu Lasagna was mind blowing. Your palate is expecting a traditional lasagna but this was so rich and with amazing depth.

Description – Wagyu Lasagna: Smoked and braised wagyu beef shank ragu, tomato and red wine sauce, bechamel, and smoked mozzarella. Served with Green River Rye.

The dessert might have been my favorite bite of the evening. Such an explosion of flavors that worked amazingly well together. Wow!

Description – Cherry Covered Chocolate: Triple chocolate marscapone cheesecake with a warm cherry gastrique. Served with Green River Full Proof Bourbon 117 Proof.

The evening was wrapping up and it was time to say our goodbyes. It was well worth the drive and it has also encouraged us to return to the Farmer & Frenchman for a longer stay.

But before leaving, we had to get a picture with friends – Caryn, Renee, and Aaron!!!

Rebecca, Caryn, Renee, Aaron, and Wayne

June 2024 Green River Full Proof Tasting

June 9, 2024
By Rebecca Herman McBrayer

Green River – The Whiskey Without Regrets!

For this tasting, Wayne and I tasted the latest release from Green River Distilling – their Kentucky Straight Full Proof Bourbon. We purchased this bottle when we attended their Full Proof Release Event on June 7, 2024.

For the release event, we received a gift bag that included a bottle of Green River Full Proof in commemorative packaging and one of their newly redesigned Glencairn glasses, which is really beautiful.

Time to open the box for the surprise!

From Green River’s Press Release: Green River Full Proof is a blend of five-to-seven-year barrels selected from curated areas of Green River’s Owensboro tile warehouses and feature the same mash bill as Green River Kentucky Straight Bourbon. These original tile warehouses maintain both warm and cool temperatures, yielding unique proof variation and liquid maturation. The result is a pure expression offering a robust flavor profile which preserves the barrel character while bringing massive flavor to the palate.

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

Green River Kentucky Straight Full Proof Bourbon


Mashbill – 70% Corn, 21% Rye, and 9% Malted Barley
Age – A blend of 5-, 6-, and 7-year-old barrels
Proof – 117.3
Price Paid – $49.99
Other – One of the coolest bottles around with the horseshoe base as a throwback to their historical DSP-KY-10

Color – Dark Golden Amber

Aroma – Caramel, vanilla, citrus, honeysuckle, cherry, light mint, baking spices.

Tasted Neat – The warmth of backing spices and like the nose, there is vanilla, citrus, honeysuckle, caramel, and dried cherry. On a second sip, cocoa and mint appear. The finish is lingering with more spicy notes of black pepper and cinnamon, a hint of fruit, and the barrel char is noticeable.

Tasted with dried cranberry –  Light and bright. The citrus is more prominent and it is less spicy but still a finish of cinnamon.

Tasted with a pecan – A bit more woody and somewhat hot but not with a distinct spice. The citrus and other great notes seem to be gone.

Tasted with dark chocolate – That is really good. The light cocoa from the neat taste is coming through with more chocolate and the rye mint flavors. The finish remains very nice and oaky with the dark chocolate as well.

Discussion and Final Notes


This is a really good full proof. At 117.3 it is pretty easy to drink after the first acclimation sip. It has a wonderful range of flavors with a terrific body and mouthfeel. The blending of this was masterful as is evident from such a balanced taste profile.

Value – all day long! This is a 5-7-year blended full proof bourbon for under $50. It is very elegant and highly enjoyable. We might want to try this head-to-head with other full proofs / barrel strengths of a similar proof. This is not allocated and should be widely available.

We highly recommend trying this Green River Full Proof. For the price point, we plan to always have a “back up” on hand as well. This could easily become one of our regular pours.

Cheers,
Rebecca & Wayne

Photos by Rebecca Herman McBrayer

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.

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.

Green River Full Proof Bourbon Release Event

By Rebecca Herman McBrayer

June 7, 2024, Wayne and I ventured to Owensboro, KY to partake in Green River Distillery’s launch of their full proof bourbon.  We had secured a VIP Tour and arrived early to take in the festivities.

While awaiting the start of our tour, we had a pour of the full proof. The perfect way to set the stage for the remainder of the event.

VIP History and Distillery Tour


We a VIP tour with none other than the amazing National Brand Ambassador, Caryn Wells. We started in the room that holds so much of the history of Green River Distilling. Each time the story is told, we learn and/or remember a new detail. I decided to get pictures of the timeline barrels to help me remember. The artifacts that they have collected and displayed are top notch.

History notes from the barrel heads –

1885: Green River Distillery is founded by JW McCulloch. DSP-KY-10 is the 10th oldest Licensed distillery in the state and becomes home to McCulloch’s famous whiskey.

1886-1889: Green River Whiskey is known far and wide, thanks to its quality and JW McCulloch’s innovative marketing approach. Advertising for the brand includes the slogan “The Whiskey without a Headache,” later becoming “The Whiskey Without Regrets.” Known as the “most expensive spirit ever sold,” 20 barrels were once traded for interest in a Colorado gold mine. Green River becomes the official whiskey of the US Marine Hospital in 1910.

1900-1906: Green River wins many awards, including a gold medal and “best of show” at the Paris Exposition in 1900, and later a grand prize at the 1905 Leigh Exposition in Belgium. It also wins awards at expositions in St. Louis MO in 1904, Portland OR in 1905, and Milan Italy in 1906.

1906-1917: The city of Owensboro is an epicenter of bourbon production with more than 20 distilleries. Daviess County is home to several of the state’s largest and best distilleries.

1918: At the height of Green River’s popularity, a fire broke out on the distillery grounds. In just three hours, most of the buildings and whiskey barrels were reduced to rubble.

History notes from the barrel heads – (continued)

1920-1933: The distillery is rebuilt, but Prohibition is passed, and McCulloch wouldn’t live to restore Green River to its former glory. Almost all of Daviess County’s distilleries, including Green River, shut their doors, as Owensboro’s whiskey industry evaporates overnight.

1939-2007: A group of Medley family members band together to purchase and revive the distillery as the Medley Distilling Company. For the next 70 years, the Medley Family continues to carry on the tradition of distilling spirits at the location and maintains the registration of the distillery as DSP-KY-10.

Today – A Legacy Revived: In 2014, the Green River team finds the distillery with such a storied history in ruins. Brick by brick, building the building, they restore the 10th oldest distillery in the state. In 2016, they began distilling. History comes full circle in 2020 as Green River Distilling Co. is officially revived in its original home. With the support of John W. McCulloch’s great-grandson, the Green River flag is raised high on the distillery campus for the first time since Prohibition.

2022: Green River returns to its former glory. The revival marks the return of Owensboro’s rich bourbon legacy. The distillery remains registered as DSP-KY-10 and is a heritage member of the famed Kentucky Bourbon Trail, welcoming visitors from near and far.

We headed outdoors for a discussion about grain. Green River uses only non-GMO grain and receives more bushels a week than one can wrap their head around. Next we were off to the stillhouse. Caryn shared history as well as distilling facts with us along the way.  We got to drink the “high wine” off the still and it was fantastic.

Rickhouse B

We then went to Rickhouse B where all the single barrels are selected. It was great that we were able to taste and compare their various offerings. We started with the Wheated, then their flagship Bourbon, followed by the Rye, and we finished with the Full Proof. We learned that the full proof is a blend of 5-, 6-, and 7-year-old barrels. In addition to the prepared pours of their line, we received samples of a bourbon single barrel thieved straight from the barrel. It was incredible!

We have been on many tours and experiences. Two of the most important factors of a GREAT one are the guide and your fellow enthusiasts. For this event, we hit the jackpot with Caryn as our guide and an amazing group of bourbon/Green River enthusiasts. It was like family and we had so much fun!

We each received a gift back with a bottle of Green River Full Proof and one of their newly redesigned Glencairn glasses, which is really beautiful.

See our Green River Full Proof tasting notes HERE!

Distillery Trail Statistics

Green River Distilling, in Owensboro, KY, is the closest distillery to us and one of our favorite places to visit. This was our 9th visit and our 127th distillery experience. Our first visit was November 13, 2021 where Caryn Wells led us through a guided tasting and discussion about this history of the distillery.

We had a truly wonderful evening and it was difficult to say goodbye. Wayne and I look forward to our next visit at Green River Distilling.

Rebecca, Caryn, & Wayne

May 2024 BBQ & Barrels

May 13, 2024
By Rebecca Herman McBrayer

We started the weekend on Friday night with the kick-off dinner, Spirited Bourbon Pairing Dinner at Green River Distillery. However, Saturday, May 11, was the big day – and BIG it was. The 2024 BBQ & Barrels event was amazing. There was competition BBQ in the streets, a great line-up of live music all day, a very interesting auto show, education sessions in the afternoon, followed by the bourbon festival. Of course, that doesn’t mean the day is complete until gathering with friends and an opportunity to view the Northern Lights. What a day! Something for everyone!

BBQ Competition and Street Fair

Cooking teams, BBQ competition, Food Trucks – this Street Fair lined 2nd Street in downtown Owensboro, KY. It was fun to walk and smell the amazing aromas coming off of those smoker. Wow – if only cameras had smell-a-vision!

On Friday we sampled one item and enjoyed a cocktail from Castle & Key.

Saturday we had the opportunity to sample from the various competition teams. So many yummy bites of smoked chicken, pork, bologna, ham, sausage, venison, etc. It is amazing how full you can get sampling with a toothpick!

The car show was new this year. I’m not sure I would have been aware of it if I hadn’t known someone who was showing his 57 Chevy. While there weren’t as many cars in the field as one might expect, they were all incredibly different and quite stunning. Ultimately, 12 barrel head trophies were awarded.

Education Session with Evan Williams

We enrolled in the Master Class with Evan Williams Bourbon Experience (EWBE) Artisanal Distiller, Jodie Filiatreau. The BBQ & Barrels classes are a terrific value. Held one hour prior to the VIP entry for the bourbon tasting, the last two years there have been three options available and only $25 a ticket for a 45 minute session.

Jodie introduced himself and provide some background on his 42 years of experience, working his way up, of being a part of the Heaven Hill family-owned operation.

He then led us on a detailed tasting of two award-winning Evan Williams Bourbons made in distinctly different styles. The small cups, in the photo above, contained various elements, such as cherry, cinnamon, walnuts, etc. that might be on the nose or the palate of the two expressions. We were also provided a water dropper and were encouraged to try each a second time with a drop of water to see how it might open up differently.

First up was the Evan Williams Single Barrel made in column stills at the historic DSP-KY-1 Bernheim plant. This expression is 78% corn, 10% rye, and 12% malted barley. The notes provided were accurate for our palate as well – nose of dark caramel, sweet oak, and charred wood; taste of oak with honey, fruit notes of apple and orange, and a very nice spice.

Next was the Square 6 wheated bourbon made in the EWBE Artisanal Distillery using Vendome pot stills. We have tried and purchased the Square 6 previously and the wheated expression is one of our favorites. It is a blend of two mashbills. The first is 74% corn, 16% wheat, and 10% malted barley. The second is 68% corn, 20% wheat, and 12% malted barley. This is bottled at 105 proof. All aspects of this is wonderful. The nose starts with caramel, vanilla, figs, cherries, and oak. The nose continues on the palate and adds confectioners’ sugar and walnuts. The walnuts continue on the finish as well as oak and cinnamon. It is a yummy flavor bomb.

Rebecca, Wayne, & Jodie
Lisa & Jodie

Jodie loves what he does and it shows in his excitement when talking about these spirits. It was really nice to meet him, hear his story, and taste these spirits again with his enthusiasm as an added bonus. After the session concluded, we were able to get pictures with him for us and our friend, Lisa Stinson.

Barrels Bourbon Festival – VIP

View of the BBQ & music festival from the Convention Center

The VIP ticket included the all-important one-hour early entry (3PM vs 4PM). Everything else aside, this is critical because it is much less crowded and this allows you to sample more easily and spend time talking with the various distillers. Of course, the passed heavy hors d’oeuvres and commemorative VIP BBQ and Barrels Glencairn tasting glass is very nice as well.

With 35 distilleries, we approached it somewhat methodically but also ensured we had time with some of our favorite people!

There were legacy distilleries, craft distilleries, and some who were just getting started. It is wonderful to see everyone together and in a support environment.

The crowds were substantial following the VIP hour but everyone was polite and friendly. People shared tables to visit and take a break. Distillers shared their stories, provided samples & tchotchkes, most were able to sell bottles a well. It was a great opportunity to be reminded of why we have enjoyed these folks while meeting new people and tasting new expressions.

We made our bottle purchases (pro tip: wait so you don’t have to carry!) and exited the event a little after 5PM. We enjoyed our time there and two hours was just about perfect for us.

Bourbon Friends & Northern Lights

It was a wonderful day and a beautiful evening; thus, we couldn’t let the fun end at the conclusion of the festival. Many of us gathered at about 8PM for a “bottle share” around the bonfire at one of the hotels on the river. Again, time with old friends and time to get to know new friends. That is what the bourbon journey is all about. Sharing a pour with stories, laughter, and even some cigars. I’ve said it before and will say it again – bourbon has an amazing culture and it is one that we feel immensely blessed to be a part of.

This also happened to be a night where viewing the Northern Lights was a possibility. Being on the river, without excessive lights, was a lovely setting to gain a glimpse. We all looked, watched, and hoped for several hours. Ironically, it wasn’t until Wayne and I were walking back to our hotel at about midnight that we were finally able to capture the magical view. Wow – the Northern Lights truly placed a colorful bow on what had already been a perfect weekend.

The Glover Cary Bridge (also known as the Blue Bridge) connecting Indiana to Owensboro KY always has an amazing light display.

That’s a Wrap for BBQ & Barrels

Wow – what a wonderful weekend! We could not have asked for better weather. The event was well-organized and everyone we met was friendly and fun. It is always difficult to say what was the best part or the best memory. While the events were excellent, it is always the people who create the memories. Seeing folks that we haven’t seen for some time. Making new friends. Spending time with people who come from various locations and walks of like to share a common passion – bourbon.

If you haven’t been to Owensboro, KY or this BBQ & Barrels event, mark your calendar for 2025. The BBQ event has been a staple on the riverfront for decades and in 2023 the “barrels” portion was added. This year was the first time for the car show. With the live music, it is truly a festival atmosphere. There is something for everyone and that is why the attendance continues to grow. Bookmark their site, tickets usually go on sale late February or very early March.

Again, we highly recommend this event. If you haven’t attended a bourbon festival before, this is a terrific chance to do so in a non-overwhelming environment. And if your friends, spouse, or significant other are not “into bourbon” that’s ok because there is so much to do!

This was a great memory for Our Bourbon Journey – be sure to add it to yours!

Rebecca & Wayne

Photo credits: Rebecca Herman McBrayer

May 2024 Spirited Bourbon Pairing Dinner at Green River

May 11, 2024
By Rebecca Herman McBrayer

As a start to the two-day BBQ & Barrels event in Owensboro, KY, Wayne and I drove over the blue bridge last night to attend our 2nd Annual Spirited Bourbon Pairing Dinner with Green River Distilling. We always enjoy our visits at Green River and this one looked to be terrific.

On the agenda was a unique bourbon dinner crafted by Chef Matt Weafer of Niko’s Bakery Cakes and of course, cocktail pairings crafted by Green River.

Throughout the evening we were serenaded by this amazing group!

Once seated, we enjoyed a smoked salmon dip and smoked pimento cheese.

With the salad course we were served a Lemon Thyme Whiskey Sour made with Green River Wheated Bourbon, Lemon Juice, and Thyme Simple Syrup.

The Maque Choux Salad included local greens, corn, tomatoes, onions, celery, red peppers, creole dressing, and bacon.

The entrée cocktail was a Honey Ginger Old Fashioned made with Green River Kentucky Straight Bourbon, Ginger/Honey Rich Syrup, and Angostura Bitters.

The entrée included pecan crusted sea bass with smoked tomato chutney, pommes duchesse and asparagus.

We were then served duck a l’range with duck confit and bourbon orange glaze over chili-infused grits and brussel sprouts.

We were then treated to a Blackberry Manhattan made with Green River Rye Whiskey, Blackberry infused Sweet Vermouth, and Fernet.

The dessert was a lovely bourbon poached pear with goat cheese cremeux, smoked miso caramel, and almond gateau.

Bourbon with Friends

With every bourbon event, there is an opportunity to connect with friends and make new ones. We had a lively table and a great time was had by all! We are looking forward to Saturday’s events.

This was another fantastic event hosted by Green River Distilling.

Cheers until we meet again!
Rebecca & Wayne

Green River Rye Whiskey Launch Party

By Rebecca Herman McBrayer

February 1, 2024, Wayne and I ventured to Owensboro, KY to partake in Green River Distillery’s launch of their rye whiskey.  We had secured the final VIP Tour of the day and arrived early to take in the festivities.

When we arrived and checked in, we were greeted with a donut.  What?? But not any ordinary donut. These were by the local Gramps Coffee and Donuts. Each donut was dipped in a delicious homemade glaze that is made with the newly released Green River Rye Whiskey. It was then topped with pecans and a dab of whipped cream for that small creamy bite. Wow – just wow!

We then ventured to the bar to see what specialty cocktails were available. Not surprising, one of the featured drinks was an Old Fashioned made with the Green River Rye – it was very good. Read our tasting notes here.

VIP Distillery Tour



We had the last VIP tour of the day, and it was with none other than the amazing National Brand Ambassador, Caryn Wells. The tour was fantastic.  Caryn shared history with us along the way.  We got to drink the “high wine” off the still (just over 140 proof) and it was fantastic.

She shared a wonderful “full circle” story while we were in the fermentation room.  Originally, there were Cedar fermentation tanks in that room. However, they were sold by Charles Medley to Maker’s Mark back in the 90’s.  Ironically, Maker’s Mark Master Distiller at the time, Steve Nally, supervised their disassembly and reassembly.  For those who do not know, Steve is now the Master Distiller at Bardstown Bourbon Company – the parent company of Green River since July of 2022. Pro-tip: Caryn shared that if you visit Maker’s, look for the wood that is slightly slimmer than the others, that is from Green River.


We then went to Rickhouse B where all the single barrels are selected. It was there that we got to try the rye.  In addition, we were able to barrel thieve rye and bourbon.  Amazingly good and we were able to keep the Glencairn as a souvenir. We learned that they rye is a blend of 4-, 5-, and 6-year-old barrels.

Back in the guest center we chatted and talked more about whiskey with Caryn and the other tour guests that we met. It was getting late, and they needed to close but first we had to each get our bottle of newly released Green River Rye Whiskey in commemorative packaging. The packaging was quite creative and both Caryn and Aaron, their Master Distiller, signed our boxes and bottles.

We had a truly wonderful evening and it was difficulty to say goodbye. Wayne and I look forward to our next visit at Green River Distilling.

Gift Shop



We have been here several times and always make a stop in their gift shop. We picked up another bottle of Green River Rye Whiskey and Wayne was able to get some very nice Green River socks and a package of their coffee. We then noticed that they had a few of the limited edition signed event prints and got one of those as well. We look forward to having it framed to hang in our bourbon room.


Commemorative Packaging for the Green River Rye Whiskey

Distillery Trail Statistics

Green River Distilling is the closest distillery to us and one of our favorite places to visit. This was our 7th visit and our 112th distillery experience. Our first visit was November 13, 2021 where Caryn Wells led us through a guided tasting and discussion about this history of the distillery.

February 2024 Green River Rye Whiskey Tasting

February 13, 2024
By Rebecca Herman McBrayer

For this tasting, Wayne and I tasted the latest release from Green River Distilling – their Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey. We purchased this bottle when we attended their Rye Launch Party on February 1, 2024. Please be sure to read our approach to Tasting Whiskey if you haven’t already. 

Green River – the whiskey without regrets!

Green River Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey



Mashbill – 95% Rye and 5% Malted Barley
Age – A blend of 4-, 5-, and 6-year-old barrels
Proof – 95
Price Paid – $37.99
Other – One of the coolest bottles around with the horseshoe base as a throwback to their historical DSP-KY-10

Color – golden amber

Aroma – doesn’t have a typical rye note on the nose; a lot of sweetness comes through such as honey, brown sugar, and a sweet fruit.


Tasted Neat – citrus, like a sweet orange marmalade with honey and graham crackers, fresh rye grass but not as expected for a 95% rye, fruitiness but with a nice rye spice and oak finish.

Tasted with dried cranberry –  reduced the sweetness and mostly muted the rye spice.

Tasted with a pecan –  A new type of sweetness now, such as caramel and chocolate, but with pepper, cinnamon, and maybe some oak on the finish.

Tasted with dark chocolate – creamy sweetness of caramel, but with a stronger presence of baking spices and then pepper for the finish.  

Discussion and Final Notes

This is rye provides a really nice ride. It is a 95% rye that drinks quite similarly to a bourbon. You know it is rye from the rye grass, slight mint, and rye spices; however, the sweet citrus fruit – such as orange marmalade plus the graham cracker tricks your mind to thinking about bourbon.

If we had friends over that said they absolutely do not like rye, I would pour them a taste of the Green River to see if we could change their mind.

This whiskey is also at a great price point of under $40 and should be readily available through regular distribution channels. I believe Green River is now in 25 states, so look for it on the shelves of your local liquor store.

Cheers,
Rebecca & Wayne

Photos by Rebecca Herman McBrayer

What is a Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey? Rye whiskey must be made from at least 51% rye. It must be distilled at 160 proof or less.  It then must be placed into a new, charred oak container at a proof of 125 or below. Straight rye whiskey is a subcategory of rye whiskey that has been aged for at least two years in new, charred oak barrels and doesn’t contain any additives. If aged less than four years, the label must include an age statement. To add “Kentucky” to the label, it must be aged for at least one year in the state of Kentucky. For additional information, read Rye Whiskey, part of the Sunday Spirit Notes.

NOTE: The whiskey 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.