High Rye Bourbon

Shortbarrel Bourbon Sapsquatch Review: A True Maple Bomb?

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Join Wayne and Rebecca on Your Bourbon Journey as we track down a rare mythological creature in whiskey form: Shortbarrel Sapsquatch (Batch SB-2)!

Grabbed from the allocated shelves at The Party Source, this 6-year straight bourbon blend is finished for an extra 6 months in Kelvin Cooperage toasted barrels and authentic Vermont maple syrup barrels with sugar maple wood spirals. Coming in at 108.6 proof (54.3% ABV), does this $89.99 release turn into an overly sweet syrup bomb, or does the toasted oak keep it balanced, creamy, and complex?

Watch as we break down the nose, viscous mouthfeel, layered palate of toasted pancakes and cinnamon, and the finish to decide if this Shortbarrel release deserves a spot on your home bar. Scott, if you’re watching, crack your bottle open already!

Drop a comment below: Have you tried Shortbarrel Sapsquatch or other maple finished bourbons? What’s your favorite finished whiskey?

🔔 Don’t forget to Like, Subscribe, and share your favorite pour in the comments. Always remember to drink responsibly! Cheers!

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Shortbarrel Sapsquatch (Batch SB-2)

  • Classification: Straight Bourbon Whiskey Finished in Maple Syrup Barrels and Toasted Barrels
  • Company: Shortbarrel Bourbon (Chamblee, GA)
  • Distillery: Undisclosed distilleries in Kentucky and Indiana (typically sourced from Barton, Beam, Bardstown Bourbon Co., Green River, and/or MGP)
  • Mash Bill: Blended (predominantly high-rye bourbon mashbills)
  • Age: 6+ Years
  • Proof: 108.6 Proof (54.3% ABV)
  • SRP: $89.99
  • Released: May / June 2026
  • Other: Small batch release; finished for 6+ months in Kelvin Cooperage toasted barrels and Vermont maple syrup barrels with sugar maple wood spirals
  • Purchased: July 24, 2026 for $89.99 at The Party Source

🚨REMEMBER TO ALWAYS DRINK RESPONSIBLY🚨

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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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Distillery Exclusive: Kentucky Artisan Wheated vs High Rye!

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Join Wayne and Rebecca on Your Bourbon Journey as we dig into our library to crack open two exclusive Kentucky Artisan Distillery Single Barrel Selections thieved straight from the barrel at the Clubhouse in Crestwood, Kentucky!

We compare a sweet, pastry-forward Wheated Bourbon (110.86 Proof) against a bold, spice-packed 6-Year High-Rye Bourbon (105.8 Proof). How do these distillery-only barrel picks hold up nearly 18 months after thieving them directly from the cask? Watch to find out our tasting notes, barrel char surprises, and which bottle takes the crown!

If you enjoy authentic whiskey tastings, bourbon trail travel tips, and single-barrel reviews, don’t forget to Like, Comment, and Subscribe!

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Kentucky Artisan – Wheated Mashbill Single Barrel

  • Classification: Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey (Single Barrel / Barrel Select)
  • Company & Distillery: Kentucky Artisan Distillery (Crestwood, KY)
  • Mash Bill: 70% Corn, 20% Wheat, 10% Malted Barley
  • Age: 3 Years, 4 Months (Barreled 11/01/22 & Bottled 03/14/26)
  • Proof: 110.86
  • SRP: $65.00
  • Released: 03/14/26
  • Other: Straight from the barrel distillery-exclusive pick.
  • Purchased: 03/14/25 for $65.00 at Kentucky Artisan Distillery

Kentucky Artisan – High Rye Mashbill Single Barrel

  • Classification: Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey (Single Barrel / Barrel Select)
  • Company & Distillery: Kentucky Artisan Distillery (Crestwood, KY)
  • Mash Bill: 60% Corn, 36% Rye, 4% Malted Barley
  • Age: 6 Years (Barreled 03/08/20 & Bottled 03/14/26)
  • Proof: 105.8
  • SRP: $95.00
  • Released: 03/14/26
  • Other: High-rye straight from the barrel distillery-exclusive pick.
  • Purchased: 03/14/25 for $95.00 at Kentucky Artisan Distillery

🚨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.

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Don’t Buy An Old Jett Finish Until You Watch This

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Four for Tuesday! On this episode of Your Bourbon Journey, Wayne and Rebecca dive into an incredible “Curiosities & Wood” flight featuring four unique expressions of The Old Jett Brothers Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey from Neeley Family Distillery in Sparta, Kentucky.

Known for their traditional sweet-mash, double pot-distilled approach and exceptional flavor profiles, Royce Neeley and the team have crafted some of the most adventurous barrel finishes in craft whiskey. From fortified and dry European wine casks to Mexican Sotol and multi-use hybrid wood, we break down the nose, palate, and finish on each pour to crown a unanimous favorite for our monthly blind whiskey competition.

Featured Flight Details:

🍇🌾🍯 Old Jett Finished in White Port Barrel

🍷🍫🇮🇹 Old Jett Finished in Amarone Wine Barrel

🎆🌵💥 Old Jett Finished in Sotol Barrel (America’s 250th Anniversary Edition) 

🪵🥧🍂 Old Jett Finished in Brandy Amburana Rye Hybrid Cask

Which of these wild barrel finishes would you try first? Let us know in the comments below!

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The Old Jett Brothers Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey Finished in a White Port Barrel

  • Classification: Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey (Finished)
  • Distillery: Neeley Family Distillery (DSP-KY-20039 — Sparta, KY)
  • Mash Bill: Sweet-Mash Wheated Bourbon
  • Age: NAS (Primary maturation ~4–5 years + 28 months secondary finishing; fortified wine)
  • Proof: 107 (53.5% ABV)
  • Purchased 07/24/26 for $100 at Neeley Family Distillery in Sparta, KY

The Old Jett Brothers Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey Finished in Amarone Wine Barrel

  • Classification: Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey (Finished)
  • Distillery: Neeley Family Distillery (DSP-KY-20039 — Sparta, KY)
  • Mash Bill: Sweet-Mash High-Rye Bourbon
  • Age: NAS (Primary maturation ~4–5 years + 11 months secondary finishing; dry red wine cask)
  • Proof: 106.4 (53.2% ABV)
  • Other: Finished in European Italian Amarone red wine casks.
  • Purchased 07/24/26 for $100 at Neeley Family Distillery in Sparta, KY

The Old Jett Brothers Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey Finished in Sotol Barrel

  • Classification: Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey (Finished)
  • Distillery: Neeley Family Distillery (DSP-KY-20039 — Sparta, KY)
  • Mash Bill: Sweet-Mash High-Rye Bourbon
  • Age: NAS (Primary maturation ~4–5 years + 19 months secondary finishing; botanical / agave-adjacent spirit finish)
  • Proof: 112.4 (56.2% ABV)
  • Other: Finished in casks previously holding Mexican Sotol spirit (distilled wild Dasylirion plant).
  • Purchased 07/24/26 for $100 at Neeley Family Distillery in Sparta, KY

The Old Jett Brothers Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey Finished in Brandy Amburana Rye (Cask)

  • Classification: Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey (Finished)
  • Distillery: Neeley Family Distillery (DSP-KY-20039 — Sparta, KY)
  • Mash Bill: Sweet-Mash High-Rye Bourbon
  • Age: NAS (Primary maturation ~4–5 years + 48 months / 4 years secondary finishing; exotic wood and fruit brandy hybrid)
  • Proof: 103 (51.5% ABV)
  • Other: An extended 4-year finish in hybrid casks that conditioned both fruit brandy and Brazilian Amburana oak.
  • Purchased 07/24/26 for $100 at Neeley Family Distillery in Sparta, KY

🚨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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Four Roses Single Barrel 2026: OESQ vs OESF vs OBSK Review 

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Are you curious about the Four Roses 2026 Single Barrel Collection releases? In this episode, Wayne and Rebecca from Your Bourbon Journey dive into three distinct 100-proof red label recipes from Four Roses Distillery: OESQ, OESF, and OBSK! 

We breakdown the yeast strain variations, mash bill differences (E vs. B), tasting notes, retail price, and recommend the ultimate tasting flight order—moving from delicate floral aromas to rich baking spices. 

Plus, we share our recent experience at the Four Roses gift shop in Lawrenceburg, KY, hint at upcoming new distillery recipes, and discuss why these annual releases are a must-try for any bourbon enthusiast.

If you enjoyed this review, please LIKE, COMMENT, and SUBSCRIBE to Your Bourbon Journey for weekly bourbon reviews, distillery news, and whiskey tasting guides!

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❌YOUR BOURBON JOURNEY DOES NOT SELL ALCOHOL❌

Four Roses Single Barrel Collection — OESQ (2026 Release)

  • Classification: Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
  • Distillery: Four Roses Distillery (Lawrenceburg, KY)
  • Mash Bill: E — 75% Corn, 20% Rye, 5% Malted Barley
  • Age: 7 – 9 Years
  • Proof: 100 Proof (50% ABV)
  • SRP: $49.99
  • Released: May 2026
  • Other: Recipe 9. Features Yeast Strain Q (Floral Essence).
  • Purchased: 07/26/26 for $51.99 at The Party Source (Newport, KY)

Four Roses Single Barrel Collection — OESF (2026 Release)

  • Classification: Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
  • Distillery: Four Roses Distillery (Lawrenceburg, KY)
  • Mash Bill: E — 75% Corn, 20% Rye, 5% Malted Barley
  • Age: 7 – 9 Years
  • Proof: 100 Proof (50% ABV)
  • SRP: $49.99
  • Released: May 2026
  • Other: Recipe 10. Features Yeast Strain F (Herbal Note).
  • Purchased: 07/26/26 for $51.99 at The Party Source (Newport, KY)

Four Roses Single Barrel Collection — OBSK (2026 Release)

  • Classification: Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
  • Distillery: Four Roses Distillery (Lawrenceburg, KY)
  • Mash Bill: B — 60% Corn, 35% Rye, 5% Malted Barley
  • Age: 7 – 9 Years
  • Proof: 100 Proof (50% ABV)
  • SRP: $49.99
  • Released: May 2026
  • Other: Recipe 2. Features Yeast Strain K (Slight Spice).
  • Purchased: 05/01/26 for $51.99 at The Party Source (Newport, KY)

🚨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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Crafting the Ultimate Spicy Old Fashioned with Cherry Wood Smoke

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Welcome to Episode 80 of Thirsty Thursday Cocktails on Your Bourbon Journey! 

Tonight, Rebecca crafts the Chile & Spice Old Fashioned—a rich, savory, and slightly smoky cocktail built specifically for mid-summer evenings.

We are pairing high-proof, high-rye bourbon muscle with authentic earthy pepper heat, juicy stone fruit, and a fragrant cloud of cherry wood smoke.

Stir one up with us tonight, and let us know your thoughts in the comments! Please drink responsibly.

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📋 THE RECIPE & INSTRUCTIONS

Chile & Spice Old Fashioned

  • 2.0 oz Old Grand-Dad 114 7-Year Single Barrel Bourbon
  • 0.5 oz Chicago Dogma Amargo De Chile
  • 0.33 oz Demerara Syrup
  • 2 dashes Fee Brothers Plum Cocktail Bitters
  • Garnish: Expressed orange peel
  • Smoke: Cherry wood chips

Instructions:

  1. Combine all liquid ingredients into a mixing glass with ice.
  2. Stir for approximately 25 seconds until thoroughly chilled and diluted.
  3. Strain over a large clear ice cube into a rocks glass.
  4. Express fresh orange peel oils over the surface.
  5. Apply the cocktail smoking kit with cherry wood chips right before serving, trapping the smoke under a cloche for presentation.

🚨REMEMBER TO ALWAYS DRINK RESPONSIBLY🚨

NOTE: The spirits and items in this review were purchased by us. We were not compensated by the producers for this review. 

#Bourbon #OldFashioned #SmokedCocktail #WhiskeyCocktails #OldGrandDad114 #CraftCocktails #CocktailRecipe #ThirstyThursday #BourbonJourney #Mixology #Amaro #AmargoDeChile #BourbonLovers #SmokedOldFashioned #Whiskey

Bulleit Bourbon Distillery Tour & Double Bottle Tasting Review

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We are back on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail for Episode 63 of Bourbon Trail Tales & Tastes! Today, we are sharing our recent second visit to the massive Bulleit Frontier Whiskey Distillery in Shelbyville, KY. While we’ve stopped by before, this was our very first time taking the official Bulleit Distillery Tour with our fantastic guide, Jeremy! 

Even though production was temporarily shut down, we got an up-close look at the incredible automated facility, stood inside a disassembled vintage Vendome column still to inspect the plates, and explored their fascinating microscope-blown yeast strain wall. Plus, we dive into their legendary “hippie trip” full sensory tasting room to experience the sensory orbs!

After hitting one of the best gift shops on the trail, we brought home two unique bottles purchased the same day. Today, we crack them open for a double first-pour tasting review:

ONE: Bulleit Bourbon Barrel Strength (Batch 08) An uncut, non-chill filtered powerhouse clocking in at 121.8 proof. 

TWO: Bulleit Bourbon Mesquite Smoked Malt (Limited Edition) A fascinating 6-year-old experimental release distilled in November 2018. 

Have you done the Bulleit Frontier Whiskey Experience? What do you think of the experimental Mesquite Smoked Malt? Let us know in the comments below!

If you love what we do, hit that SUBSCRIBE button, join us on the journey, and always remember to drink responsibly. Go bite the Bulleit today! Cheers!

Connect With Us & Support The Journey! 

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❌YOUR BOURBON JOURNEY DOES NOT SELL ALCOHOL❌

Bulleit Bourbon Barrel Strength (Batch 08)

  • Classification: Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
  • Company: Diageo
  • Distillery: Sourced from undisclosed Kentucky distillery(ies) (Aged/Bottled at Bulleit Distilling Co. in Shelbyville, KY)
  • Mash Bill: Bulleit’s signature high-rye bourbon mash bill, typically ~68% Corn, 28% Rye, 4% Malted Barley
  • Age: NAS (at least 4 years)
  • Proof: 121.8
  • SRP: $60
  • Other: Uncut and non-chill filtered; aged in level 4 char barrels with level 2 char heads.
  • Purchased: 03/29/26 for $60 at Bulleit Frontier Whiskey Experience

Bulleit Bourbon Mesquite Smoked Malt (Limited Edition)

  • Classification: Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
  • Company: Diageo
  • Distillery: Bulleit Distilling Co. (Shelbyville, KY)
  • Mash Bill: 65% Corn, 30% Mesquite-Smoked Malted Barley, 5% Malted Barley
  • Age: 6+ Years (Distilled November 2018, dumped 2025)
  • Proof: 93
  • SRP: $50
  • Released: March 2, 2026
  • Other: Bulleit’s first-ever straight bourbon crafted without any rye grain in the mash bill. Part of their experimental new-make and grain exploration project.
  • Purchased: 03/29/26 for $50 at Bulleit Frontier Whiskey Experience

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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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Upgrade Your Boulevardier Cocktail With This High-Proof Trick

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Welcome to Episode 78 of Thirsty Thursday Cocktails on Your Bourbon Journey! Tonight, we are crafting “The Darker Boulevardier,” a brooding, spirit-forward riff on the classic Boulevardier cocktail. If you love a classic Negroni or a traditional Boulevardier but want something with more depth, complexity, and a savory backbone, this recipe is for you.

Instead of the bright, sweet citrus snap of traditional Campari, this recipe features the high-proof intensity of Cynar 70. This amaro brings an assertive, velvety, and deeply savory artichoke-and-herbal bitterness to the glass. To stand up to that heavy modifier, we are anchoring the build with 2 full ounces of the Old Grand-Dad 114 Single Barrel 7-Year bourbon. With its famous high-rye mash bill, this 114-proof powerhouse brings a sharp punch of black pepper, cinnamon, baking spices, and a classic Jim Beam nuttiness that remains the absolute star of the glass.

We round out the sharp edges with the rich cocoa-and-berry sweetness of Cocchi di Torino Sweet Vermouth and bind the structure together with Orange Bitters. The result is a bold, viscous, and unapologetically complex aperitivo-style cocktail that opens up beautifully as the clear ice melts.

Are you a fan of using Cynar in whiskey cocktails? Let me know your thoughts on this spec in the comments below!

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🥃 THE RECIPE: THE DARKER BOULEVARDIER

  • 2.0 oz Old Grand-Dad 114 Single Barrel 7-Year Bourbon
  • 0.75 oz Cynar 70 Amaro
  • 0.75 oz Cocchi di Torino Sweet Vermouth
  • 2 dashes Orange Bitters
  • Garnish: Expressed Orange Peel

📖 INSTRUCTIONS:

  1. Combine all ingredients in a mixing glass with ice.
  2. Stir thoroughly for 30 to 45 seconds to achieve an ice-cold chill and proper dilution.
  3. Strain into a chilled rocks glass over a single large, clear ice cube.
  4. Express a fresh orange peel over the top to release the bright essential oils, and drop it in as the garnish.

🚨REMEMBER TO ALWAYS DRINK RESPONSIBLY🚨

NOTE: The spirits and items in this review were purchased by us. We were not compensated by the producers for this review. 

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Unboxing Rare Remus Reserve: Lux Row Distillery Event Haul 

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We are officially hooked! In this episode of Your Bourbon Journey, we dive deep into the highly coveted Remus Reserve Collection from Ross & Squibb Distillery. After an exclusive, intimate tasting event with Master Distiller Ian Stirsman at Lux Row Distillers, we walked away as full converts to the MGP / Luxco flavor profile. Today, we are cracking open three incredible bottles to see how they stack up side-by-side.

First up is the spectacular Remus Gatsby Reserve 2025, a massive 15-year-old straight bourbon whiskey bottled at a cask strength of 102.8 proof. Released as a centennial celebration of F. Scott Fitzgerald’s classic 1925 novel.

Next, we step up to the plate with the brand-new, limited-edition Remus Lou Gehrig Reserve (Released May 2026). Honoring the Iron Horse’s legendary 109 RBI season in 1926 at 109 proof, this bottle masterfully blends four distinct mash bills to match his iconic #4 jersey.

Finally, we round out the lineup with the heavy-hitting Remus Babe Ruth Reserve (2025 Edition). Clocking in at the highest proof on the table at 111, this medley of three high-rye mash bills commemorates the Bambino’s career professional at-bats.

Which of these ultra-premium Ross & Squibb MGP expressions takes home the crown? Watch to find out our definitive ranking! Have you been lucky enough to find any of these Remus Reserve bottles in the wild? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!

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❌YOUR BOURBON JOURNEY DOES NOT SELL ALCOHOL❌

Remus Gatsby Reserve 2025

  • Classification: Straight Bourbon Whiskey
  • Company: Luxco / MGP
  • Distillery: Ross & Squibb Distillery (Lawrenceburg, IN)
  • Mash Bill: 75% Corn, 21% Rye, 4% Malted Barley
  • Age: 15 Years
  • Proof: 102.8 Proof (51.4% ABV)
  • SRP: $199.99
  • Released: October 2025
  • Other: Cask strength. Released as a centennial celebration of F. Scott Fitzgerald’s classic 1925 novel.
  • Purchased: 05/29/26 for $219.99 at Lux Row Distillers, Bardstown KY

Remus Lou Gehrig Reserve

  • Classification: Straight Bourbon Whiskey
  • Company: Luxco / MGP
  • Distillery: Ross & Squibb Distillery (Lawrenceburg, IN)
  • Mash Bill: Medley of 4 distinct mash bills (reflecting his #4 jersey):
    • 70% is 2017 distillation (49% Rye / 51% Corn / 10% Malted Rye)
    • 14% is 2016 distillation (44% Rye)
    • 8% is 2019 distillation (36% Rye)
    • 8% is 2019 distillation (99% Corn / 1% Malted Barley)
  • Age: NAS (Blend of 7 to 10-year-old bourbons)
  • Proof: 109 Proof (54.5% ABV) — Honors his 109 RBI season in 1926
  • SRP: $149.99
  • Released: May 2026
  • Other: Limited to exactly 9,665 numbered bottles, representing each of the Iron Horse’s career plate appearances.
  • Purchased: 05/29/26 for $155.99 at Lux Row Distillers, Bardstown KY

Remus Babe Ruth Reserve (2025 Edition)

  • Classification: Straight Bourbon Whiskey
  • Company: Luxco / MGP
  • Distillery: Ross & Squibb Distillery (Lawrenceburg, IN)
  • Mash Bill: Medley of 3 distinct mash bills (reflecting his #3 jersey):
    • 73% is 2017 distillation (51% Corn, 39% Unmalted Rye, 10% Malted Rye)
    • 15% is 2016 distillation (52% Corn, 44% Rye, 4% Malted Barley)
    • 12% is 2017 distillation (60% Corn, 36% Rye, 4% Malted Barley)
  • Age: NAS (Blend of 8 to 9-year-old bourbons)
  • Proof: 111 Proof (55.5% ABV)
  • SRP: $149.99
  • Released: June 2025
  • Other: Limited to 8,399 numbered bottles, marking his total career professional at-bats.
  • Purchased: 05/29/26 for $155.99 at Lux Row Distillers, Bardstown KY

🚨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.

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This Smoked Bourbon Old Fashioned Isn’t Too Sweet! 

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Take your Old Fashioned to the next level with The Amber Coast, a rich, spirit-forward smoked cocktail that bridges modern mixology with a piece of liquid history! In Episode 72 of Thirsty Thursday Cocktails, Rebecca crafts a sophisticated twist on the classic bourbon cocktail using a bold, high-rye bourbon and a secret vintage ingredient from 1983.

Whether you love whiskey tasting, exploring complex bourbon recipes, or looking for the perfect transitional spring-to-summer drink, this craft cocktail delivers massive flavor. We are combining robust oak and black pepper notes with a unique vanilla-citrus sweetness and a clean, smoky finish. Grab your cocktail mixing glass and smoke infuser, and let’s mix a drink together!

If you enjoyed learning how to make a smoked old fashioned, don’t forget to LIKE this video, SUBSCRIBE to Your Bourbon Journey for weekly craft cocktail recipes, and hit the notification bell so you never miss a Thirsty Thursday!

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The Recipe: The Amber Coast

  • Style: Smoked Old Fashioned / Spirit-Forward
  • Glassware: Heavy Rocks Glass
  • Ice: One large clear cube
  • Smoke Agent: Cherry Apple wood

Ingredients:

  • 2 oz High-Rye Bourbon (Featured: Green River Full Proof)
  • 0.5 oz French 43 Liqueur
  • 0.25 oz Dry Vermouth (Featured: Vintage Stock/Schenley circa 1980s)
  • 3 dashes Jeptha Creed Strawberry Ginger Bitters
  • 2 dashes Orange Bitters
  • Garnish: Expressed Orange Peel

Instructions:

  1. Combine the High-Rye Bourbon, French 43, Dry Vermouth, and both types of bitters in a cocktail mixing glass.
  2. Add ice and stir for 15–20 seconds for optimal chilling, integration, and dilution.
  3. Strain the mixture into a heavy rocks glass over a single large, clear ice cube.
  4. Express a fresh orange peel over the top of the glass to release the citrus oils, then drop it in.
  5. Use a cocktail smoker to infuse the drink with burning cherry wood smoke. Let the smoke settle to caramelize the oils.
  6. Serve, sip, and enjoy responsibly!

🚨REMEMBER TO ALWAYS DRINK RESPONSIBLY🚨

NOTE: The spirits and items in this review were purchased by us. We were not compensated by the producers for this review. 

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Why This 3-Hour Toasted Barrel Changes Everything | Cascadia

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We found the “Space Mountain” of Bourbon! | Bardstown Cascadia Review

Is a three-hour toast the secret to the perfect bourbon? Today on Your Bourbon Journey, Wayne and Rebecca head to the “Oregon Trail” (by way of Kentucky!) to taste the highly anticipated Bardstown Bourbon Company Distillery Reserve: Cascadia Garryana Oak Barrel Finish.

Released on March 20, 2026, this 107.5-proof gem is defined by the scarcity of its wood. Garryana Oak (Oregon White Oak) cannot be farmed—it must be harvested from fallen or sanctioned trees. Bardstown partnered with Oregon Barrel Works to create custom barrels that underwent a massive three-hour toast to pull out deep notes of clove, nutmeg, and baked cherry.

Is it worth the $99.99 price tag for a 375ml bottle? Wayne compares it to a wild ride on Space Mountain, while Rebecca explores the “French Oak” vibes and savory tannins.

In this video, we discuss:

  • How we managed to snag two bottles at the distillery (and the 60-day rule!).
  • The science behind the 3-hour toast vs. standard charring.
  • Full tasting notes: From “Clove Gum” on the nose to “Cherry Pie” on the palate.
  • Where to find it: Bardstown & Louisville tasting rooms.

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❌YOUR BOURBON JOURNEY DOES NOT SELL ALCOHOL❌

Bardstown Bourbon Company’s Distillery Reserve: Cascadia Garryana Oak Barrel Finish

  • Classification:  Straight Bourbon Whiskey
  • Company: Bardstown Bourbon Company
  • Mash Bill: Blend of three (9 & 10-year-old high-rye/low-rye bourbon mash bills)
  • Age: 9 years (plus 10-month finish)
  • Proof: 107.5
  • MSRP: $99.99 (375 ml)
  • Released: March 20, 2026
  • Purchased: 03/28/26 for $99.99 at Bardstown Bourbon Company
  • Other: This release is defined by the scarcity of its wood. Unlike standard American White Oak, Garryana (Oregon White Oak) cannot be farmed; it’s harvested only from fallen or sanctioned trees. Bardstown partnered with Oregon Barrel Works to create custom barrels that underwent a three-hour toast—a massive amount of time compared to standard barrel charring. 

❌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.

#Bourbon #WhiskeyReview #BardstownBourbonCo #GarryanaOak #YourBourbonJourney #Cascadia #KentuckyBourbon #WhiskeyTasting #ToastedBarrel #RareWhiskey #BourbonCommunity #CraftWhiskey #OregonOak #DistilleryReserve #BourbonHistory