Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey

Affordable 15 STARS Bourbon! First West Series Review 

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🥃 15 STARS First West Series Review! Trio Tasting: Small Batch, Toasted Oak, & Extra Aged 🇺🇸

Join Wayne and Rebecca from Your Bourbon Journey as they dive into the highly anticipated, and more affordably priced, 15 STARS First West Series of Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskeys! This father-son company (Rick & Ricky Johnson) with roots in gourmet popcorn, and a commitment to heirloom corn, is making waves with their expert blending and “Flavor Proofing” technique.

🤔 Are these new, more accessible bourbons from 15 STARS worth the price point? Watch to find out which bottle offers the best “bang for your buck” and which one they would skip!

In this in-depth tasting, they sample all three unique expressions, bottled in gorgeous, historic blue glass:

The Flight:

  1. First West Small Batch (Blue Label): (5, 6, & 7 Year Blend | 102 Proof | $59.99)
    • The Difference: Includes the brand’s own distillate made from proprietary red, white, and blue heirloom corn for a unique profile.
    • Tasting Notes: Rich caramel, baking spices, vanilla, and a distinct nuttiness reminiscent of roasted nuts or a classic bourbon profile.
    • Verdict: A winner! Wayne and Rebecca agree this is the best value and their favorite, showcasing a unique and distinct flavor profile that sets the brand apart.
  2. First West Toasted Oak (Red Label): (5, 6, & 7 Year Blend | 98 Proof | $69.99)
    • The Difference: Finished in a blend of two different toasted oak barrels for 5 weeks.
      Tasting Notes: Intense sweetness like confectionary sugar and marshmallow, roasted nuts, and a warming cinnamon heat on the back.
    • Verdict: An excellent toasted pour, but the hosts prefer the complexity and uniqueness of the Small Batch for the price.
  3. First West Extra Aged (White Label): (8 & 9 Year Blend | 100 Proof | $79.99)
    • The Difference: Extra-aged and 100% sourced from an undisclosed Kentucky distillery (no 15 STARS distillate).
    • Tasting Notes: Sweet caramel, cardamom/nutmeg spice, and heavy, savory barrel notes.
    • Verdict: A good, older bourbon, but it feels disconnected from the other two and has a surprisingly short finish.

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✴️ First West Small Batch Bourbon

  • Classification:  Blend of Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskeys
  • Company: 15 Stars
  • Mash Bill: Includes a portion of 15 STARS’ own distillate made from proprietary red, white, and blue heirloom corn—a first for the brand’s blends.
  • Age: Blend of 5, 6, & 7 Year
  • Proof: 102 (“flavor proofed”)
  • MSRP: $59.99
  • Released: July 2025
  • Other: Bottled in a unique, historic blue glass bottle inspired by the earliest whiskey bottles crafted in Kentucky.
  • Purchased: 10/16/25 for $59.99 at High Spirits Liquor in Evansville, IN

✴️First West Toasted Oak

  • Classification:  Blend of Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
  • Company: 15 Stars
  • Mash Bill: Includes bourbon distilled by 15 STARS (at Bardstown Bourbon Company) from proprietary red, white, and blue heritage corns (first use in a 15 STARS blend); the other component bourbon(s) are not disclosed
  • Barrels: Blend of two different toast profiles
  • Age: Blend of 5, 6, & 7 Year
  • Proof: 98
  • MSRP: $69.99
  • Released: July 2025
  • Other: Bottled in a unique, historic blue glass bottle inspired by the earliest whiskey bottles crafted in Kentucky.
  • Purchased: 10/16/25 for $69.99 at High Spirits Liquor in Evansville, IN

✴️First West Extra Aged

  • Classification:  Blend of Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskeys
  • Company: 15 Stars
  • Mash Bill: 
  • Age: Blends of 8 & 9 Years
  • Proof: 100 “flavor proofed”
  • MSRP: $79.99
  • Released: July 2025
  • Other: Bottled in a unique, historic blue glass bottle inspired by the earliest whiskey bottles crafted in Kentucky.
  • Purchased: 10/16/25 for $79.99 at High Spirits Liquor in Evansville, IN

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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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Outlaw Kentucky Bourbon! 107 Proof Review (MUST TASTE!)

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🥃 OUTLAW KENTUCKY BOURBON: Sundance Kid Review | Brown Sugar Bomb from Preservation Distillery?

Join Wayne and Rebecca from Your Bourbon Journey as they crack open a rare and highly-sought-after bottle: Outlaw Kentucky Bourbon – The Sundance Kid. Bottled by the mysterious Outlaw Distilling Company (wink, wink… same address as Preservation Distillery + Farm in Bardstown, KY!), this Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey is part of a special series celebrating the Old West’s most notorious characters.

This 7-8 year old blend is bottled at a perfect 107.6 Proof (Barrel Strength / Cask Strength adjacent!) and delivers a profile Wayne and Rebecca describe as a “Brown Sugar Bomb!”

In this video, you’ll get:

  • Tasting Notes: Discover the dominant flavors of rich brown sugar, warm clove, a hint of vanilla on the nose, and a long finish that evolves into dark chocolate, cinnamon, and barrel char.
  • Deep Dive Info: Uncover the story of Harry Longabaugh, the real Sundance Kid, and his fictional connection to a payroll hijacking bound for Wattie Boone Distillery.
  • Bourbon Journey Verdict: Find out why this rare $159 bottle stood out among the high-dollar, limited-edition releases at Preservation Distillery’s gift shop during the Kentucky Bourbon Festival.
  • Smooth & Viscous Mouthfeel: Hear how the proof point is “just right” and why this whiskey has a delightful, lingering warmth.

Is this high-proof, sourced Kentucky Bourbon worthy of its outlaw name? Tune in to find out!

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✴️ Outlaw Kentucky Bourbon: Sundance Kid

  • Classification: Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
  • Distillery: Undisclosed
  • Bottled: Under the name of Outlaw Distilling Company (same address as Preservation Distillery + Farm)
  • Mash Bill: unknown
  • Age: 7-8 years
  • Proof: 107.6
  • Other: Part of a Series
  • Purchased: 09/02/25 for $159 at Preservation Distillery in Bardstown, KY

❌YOUR BOURBON JOURNEY DOES NOT SELL ALCOHOL❌

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NOTE: The spirit in this review was purchased by us. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is simply our opinion based on what we tasted on this day. Please drink responsibly.

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Michael Veach’s Dream Bourbon: Fountain Run BiB Review

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🥃 Fountain Run Bourbon Review: Michael Veach’s Dream 7-Year Bottled-in-Bond! 🥃

Join Wayne and Rebecca from Your Bourbon Journey as they finally taste the culmination of “Bill and Mike’s Excellent Adventure:” Fountain Run Bottled In Bond Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey! Bourbon Hall of Fame Historian Michael Veach (BourbonVeach) poured his heart and family history into this unique bottle, and the results are an absolute success.

Inspired by his grandfather’s Depression-era moonshine, this bourbon is crafted with a very special mash bill featuring Hickory Cane White Corn. After a seven-year, four-month journey, is this one-of-a-kind, fruit-forward, 19th-century-style bourbon the “hitters bourbon” they hoped for?

Watch to find out the unique tasting notes of green apple, pear, rye spice, and coffee/chocolate malt that make this a “tale of two halves” for the palate! Plus, hear about the unique bottling process and the potential for a future “baked apple pie” wheated version!

Tasting Notes & Specs

  • Classification: Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
  • Distillery: Kentucky Artisan Distillery
  • Mash Bill: 65% Hickory Cane White Corn, 20% Rye, 12% Distiller’s Malt, 3% Chocolate Malt
  • Age: 7 Years 4 Months (Bottled In Bond)
  • Proof: 100 Proof (Drinks a little higher!)
  • Nose: Light, fruit-forward, sweet, like an orchard (green apple, pear).
  • Palate: Bright, fresh fruit (apple), followed by rye spice, with a chocolate/coffee hint on the back palate and finish.
  • Release Date: October 2025

Purchased: 10/30/25 for $99.99 at Seelbach’s Online Check Seelbach’s for availability: https://seelbachs.com/products/fountain-run-kentucky-straight-bourbon-whiskey

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The Journey

This bourbon is the finale of Michael Veach and Bill Thomas’s multi-year project, affectionately called “Bill and Mike’s Excellent Adventure.” This limited release was produced at Kentucky Artisan Distillery with distiller Jade Peterson, using a traditional 19th-century approach, including a low 103 barrel entry proof, heavy toast, Char 3 barrel, a screw-top, and a period-correct tax seal—features beloved by Michael Veach.

Read all about the journey on Michael Veach’s blog (Bourbon Veach):

👍 If you enjoyed this review, please like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell for more bourbon reviews! 💬 Let us know in the comments if you were able to snag a bottle of Fountain Run!

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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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SWEETEST ECBP? Elijah Craig C925 129 Proof Bourbon! 

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🥳 Elijah Craig Barrel Proof C925: First Single-Digit Age Statement! | Sweet & Bright Bourbon Review 🥃

Welcome to Your Bourbon Journey! In this exciting whiskey review, Wayne and Rebecca finally crack open the highly anticipated Elijah Craig Barrel Proof Batch C925—the final release of 2025!

This batch is already making waves in the bourbon community because it’s the first-ever ECBP release since 2013 to carry a “single-digit” age statement: 9 Years, 1 Month! Does a slightly younger age compromise the classic profile, or does it bring a new, sweeter dimension?

We’ll take a deep dive into the specs, the nose, the palate, and the finish of this 129 Proof Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey from Heaven Hill.

✨ Why This Batch is Unique

This C925 stands out not just for its age but for its tasting experience. As long-time ECBP fans, we compare it to the B525 and other past batches, finding it a uniquely sweeter pour that might be perfect for those who typically find Elijah Craig Barrel Proof too heavy on the oak. Could this be the batch to convert a wheated bourbon fan?

🔍 Elijah Craig Tasting Notes

Flavor Profile: The younger age seems to shift the profile, bringing forward notes of confectionary sugar and cherry sweetness, making it lighter, brighter, and an interesting outlier that leans toward a “wheater-like” experience despite its traditional mash bill. It’s a surprisingly smooth and calm sipper for the high proof, with heat developing mid-palate before fading slowly.

🎯 Blind Tasting Challenge!

Stay tuned! We’re planning a blind tasting showdown in December with all three 2025 Elijah Craig Barrel Proof releases (A125, B525, and C925) to see which batch truly reigns supreme this year!

Did you find a bottle of C925? Let us know what you think in the comments!

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✴️ Elijah Craig Barrel Proof Batch C925

  • Classification: Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
  • Distillery: Heaven Hill Distillery
  • Mash Bill: 78% Corn, 12% Malted Barley, 10% Rye
  • Age: 9 Years, 1 Month
  • Proof: 129
  • MSRP: $75
  • Released: September 2025; Final Batch of 2025
  • Other: This is the first time since the ECBP series began in 2013 that a batch has carried an age statement under 10 years (a “single digit” age statement).
  • Purchased: 10/29/25 for $65 at Archie & Clyde’s in Newburgh, IN

❌YOUR BOURBON JOURNEY DOES NOT SELL ALCOHOL❌

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NOTE: The spirit in this review was purchased by us. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is simply our opinion based on what we tasted on this day. Please drink responsibly.


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Tasting 1976 Old Charter: Bourbon History in a Mini Bottle! 

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🥃 Sipping on History: 1976 Old Charter 7 Year – Vintage Bourbon Review (Schenley Era Dusty Bottle)

Join Wayne and Rebecca on “Sipping on History” as we unearth a true relic of American whiskey: a rare, vintage Old Charter 7 Year Old, 86 Proof Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey bottled in the mid-1970s!

This isn’t your modern Buffalo Trace-produced Old Charter—this $1/4$ pint “dusty bottle” dates back to the Schenley Distillers era and was distilled no later than 1969 at the historic Bernheim Distillery in Louisville, KY. This bourbon is a tangible piece of the Bourbon Glut Era!

What We Taste & Discuss:

  • Tasting Notes: We explore the distinct flavor profile of 70s bourbon, including surprising viscosity, notes of butterscotch and pear, a complex savory palate, and a rye kick that hints at a classic high-rye mashbill (estimated 18-35% rye).
  • The History: Learn why the 1970s was a fascinating time for whiskey, the significance of the “For Sale in Indiana Only” label, and the journey of the Old Charter brand from Schenley to Sazerac/Buffalo Trace.
  • Proof vs. Flavor: Does 86 proof still pack a punch? We discuss why these vintage, long-aged bourbons often drink with more body and complexity than modern equivalents.

Don’t miss this rare opportunity to taste a piece of distilling history! 

Bottle Details:

  • Brand: Old Charter Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
  • Vintage/Bottled: Est. 1976 (Distilled no later than 1969)
  • Distiller (Era): Bernheim Distillery (for Schenley Distillers)
  • Age/Proof: 7 Years / 86 Proof
  • Rarity: $1/4$ Pint (4 oz) with “For sale in Indiana Only” label
  • Sourced From: Revival Vintage Spirits, Covington, KY (https://revivalky.com/)

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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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The INFINITE BOURBON: Little Book 2025 Release Review

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🥃 Little Book “The Infinite” Edition 2 (2025) Review: A Generational Blend Evolves! | Bourbon Journey

Get ready to dive deep into one of the most exciting annual releases in American Whiskey! In this video, Wayne and Rebecca from Bourbon Journey pour, nose, and taste the highly-anticipated Little Book “The Infinite” Edition 2 (2025).

Crafted by 8th Generation Master Distiller Freddie Noe, this Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey is a true generational blend, marrying whiskeys distilled by his Grandaddy Booker Noe, his father Fred Noe, and himself. It’s an infinity barrel concept brought to the masses, with each annual release evolving and maturing as new liquids are carefully added.

🌟 Tasting & Analysis: Is Edition 2 the BEST Little Book?

Edition 2 builds on the foundation of the original blend, but Freddie has added new bourbons to accentuate specific notes:

  • Booker’s Bourbon brings pronounced Oak Char and Smoke.
  • Fred’s Bourbon adds rich Vanilla, Caramel, and Dark Stone Fruit.
  • Freddie’s Bourbon introduces a Brightness with notes of Fresh Apple and Pear.

At a robust 120.4 Proof (Uncut & Unfiltered), this high-proof bourbon delivers a memorable experience. We find it to be a barrel-forward, savory pour with a surprising depth and a long, lingering finish of cinnamon and black pepper. Is it better than the first edition? We think so! The new blend brings more complexity and a beautifully viscous mouthfeel.

This limited release is a must-try for any serious bourbon collector or fan of Jim Beam products like Booker’s and Knob Creek. We share our honest thoughts on the flavor profile, the evolution of the blend, and whether this $200 MSRP bottle is worth the splurge.

Have you tried any of the Little Book releases? Let us know in the comments if you prefer The Infinite Edition 2 or Edition 1!

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✴️ Little Book “The Infinite” Edition 2 (2025)

  • Classification: Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
  • Distillery: James B. Beam
  • Likely blended from the two Beam bourbon mashbills:
  • Dominant: 75% Corn, 13% Rye, 12% Malted Barley (used for Jim Beam White Label, Black, Booker’s, Knob Creek, Baker’s)
  • Secondary: 63% Corn, 27% Rye, 10% Malted Barley (used for Old Grand-Dad, Basil Hayden’s).
  • Age: NAS (Edition 1 was 7-20 years)
  • Proof: 120.4
  • MSRP: $200
  • Released: Fall 2025
  • Purchased: 10/24/25 for $249.99 at High Spirits Liquor in Evansville, IN

❌YOUR BOURBON JOURNEY DOES NOT SELL ALCOHOL❌

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NOTE: The spirit in this review was purchased by us. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is simply our opinion based on what we tasted on this day. Please drink responsibly.

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Limestone Branch Distillery: Finishing the KY Craft Trail!

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🥃 Uncorking History & Flavor: Yellowstone Hand Picked Single Barrel Review! 🤩

Wayne and Rebecca of Your Bourbon Journey take you back to a momentous day at Limestone Branch Distillery in Lebanon, KY! Join us for Episode 44 of Bourbon Trail Tales and Tastes as we recount the exciting story of completing the Kentucky Bourbon Trail Craft Tour and, finally, taste a special bottle: a Yellowstone Hand Picked Collection Single Barrel Bourbon!

This isn’t just a review; it’s a trip down memory lane! Learn about the rich Yellowstone bourbon history, our unique distillery tour experience, and our unforgettable meeting with master distiller Stephen Beam. This particular bottle, named “Some Things are Meant to Be” (Barrel No. 7945735), was a celebratory purchase and an employee pick—and we’re finally cracking it open!

Hear our thoughts on this Limestone Branch Distillery single barrel, a true testament to the quality of the Yellowstone Hand Picked Collection (the red label bottles!). We also reminisce about the amazing hospitality, the legendary Chase and Char (the distillery Chows!), and why we highly recommend a stop at this essential craft distillery.

Don’t Miss This!

  • How we became the first to complete the Central Craft Trail at Limestone Branch! (Spoiler: there was drama!)
  • Stories about the distillery’s history and its connection to the Old Trump brand.
  • Why the Minor Case Rye lounge and patio is the perfect place to enjoy a cigar and a drink.
  • A shoutout to the incredible brand ambassador, Steven Fonte!

Bourbon Review & Details

Discover the tasting notes and dive into the specifics of this exquisite Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey. Tasting Notes: We find luscious, soft, and creamy notes with distinct toasted cherry, vanilla, and a hint of cinnamon and black pepper on the lingering finish.

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ABOUT THE BOTTLE REVIEWED

✴️ Yellowstone Hand Picked Collection

  • Classification: Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
  • Bottled By: Limestone Branch Distillery
  • Mash Bill: (likely) 75% Corn, 13% Rye, 12% Malted Barley
  • Age: NAS (barreled 02/20/18)
  • Proof: 115
  • Name: Some Things are Meant to Be
  • Single Barrel No: 7945735
  • Purchased: 05/20/23 for $79.99 at Limestone Branch Distillery in Lebanon, KY

❌YOUR BOURBON JOURNEY DOES NOT SELL ALCOHOL❌

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NOTE: The spirit in this review was purchased by us. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is simply our opinion based on what we tasted on this day. Please drink responsibly.

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Booker’s “Jerry’s Batch” 2025-03: The BEST of the Year?

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🥃 Booker’s Bourbon “Jerry’s Batch” 2025-03 Review: A Fruity, Creamy, and Unique Barrel-Proof Pour! 🍒

Get ready to uncork a piece of Jim Beam history! In this exciting review, Wayne and Rebecca from Your Bourbon Journey dive into the highly anticipated third release of the year: Booker’s 2025-03 “Jerry’s Batch”. This unique, uncut, and unfiltered Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey is a special tribute to Jerry Dalton, the only non-Beam family Master Distiller at the distillery, and a close friend and mentor to Booker and Fred Noe.

We share the fascinating story behind the name—from Jerry’s days as a chemist living behind the Noe family to becoming a key figure who steered the ship between Booker’s retirement and Fred’s takeover. Plus, we celebrate Jerry’s overdue induction into the Kentucky Bourbon Hall of Fame!

This particular batch is a master blend of barrels from nine distinct warehouses (3, 1, X, Z, K, L, O, 4, G), creating a complex profile influenced by varied micro-climates. Aged for an impressive 7 Years, 4 Months, and 21 Days and bottled at a robust 124.7 Proof, this is a powerful yet surprisingly smooth sipper.

Watch the full review and tell us your thoughts! 👇

Tasting Notes Highlights:

  • Nose: Rich brown sugar, vanilla, and a hint of fruit/cherry.
  • Palate: Creamy, viscous mouthfeel, with more sweetness than typical Booker’s. Expect notes of vanilla, caramel, cinnamon, and a unique tart cherry and toffee profile—noticeably missing the classic “Beam funk” or nuttiness.
  • Finish: Long, warming, and delightful.

Is this different profile a deliberate nod to Jerry Dalton’s preferred taste? We discuss why this batch might be the best since the acclaimed Jimmy’s Batch (2024-04)! If you’re a devoted Booker’s fan, a collector, or just love high-proof bourbon with a great story, you NEED to hear our full thoughts on this exceptional pour.

Bourbon Specs:

  • Classification: Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
  • Distillery: James B Beam
  • Batch: 2025-03 “Jerry’s Batch”
  • Age: 7 Years, 4 Months, and 21 Days
  • Proof: 124.7 (Uncut and Unfiltered)
  • Mash Bill: 75% Corn, 13% Rye, 12% Malted Barley
  • Barrel Blend: 9 different barrels from 9 different warehouses
  • MSRP: $99.99
  • Where We Got It: Archie & Clyde’s in Newburgh, IN: https://www.archieandclydes.com/

👍 Did you enjoy this Booker’s review?

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Cheers and remember to always drink responsibly!


❌YOUR BOURBON JOURNEY DOES NOT SELL ALCOHOL❌

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NOTE: The spirit in this review was purchased by us. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is simply our opinion based on what we tasted on this day. Please drink responsibly.

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Limited Edition Bourbon from The Bard Distillery!

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We’re tasting three incredible bourbons from The Bard Distillery! Join us as we compare the exclusive Cinder & Smoke Founder’s Select 10 Year with both the 2022 and 2025 John Prine “You Got Gold” special editions. Get ready for a side-by-side Kentucky bourbon journey!

Hello bourbon friends! Wayne and Rebecca from Your Bourbon Journey are back with a super special tasting featuring our friends at The Bard Distillery in Graham, KY!

In this exciting side-by-side review, we dive deep into three distinct and acclaimed Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskeys:

🌟 Cinder & Smoke Founder’s Select 10 Year Review

We start with a very special bottle: the Cinder & Smoke Founder’s Select 10 Year (Batch X, Bottle 5 of 497). This ultra-small batch, 100 proof bourbon is the oldest and final three-barrel blend in this specific series.

  • Tasting Notes: Expect an incredible sweetness on the palate, rich caramel, cinnamon, and a very pleasant smokiness that reminds us of a smoked cocktail. At 10 years old, it boasts layers and body without being over-oaked or drying, finishing with tobacco and black pepper. This is a must-try for fans of aged bourbon!

🎶 John Prine “You Got Gold” Edition Comparison

Next, we taste and compare two special editions honoring the legendary singer-songwriter John Prine, with proceeds benefiting the Hello in There Foundation. The proof on both is set at 101.0 to honor Prine’s birthday (10/10).

  • 2022 Edition (Sold Out): A wheated bourbon (corn, wheat, malted barley) with a classic Muhlenberg bourbon profile. Notes of honey, honeysuckle, and sweet bread-like notes. We suggest checking out The Bard’s regular Muhlenberg as a highly available alternative!
  • 2025 Edition (New Release): A rye bourbon (corn, rye, malted barley), aged 5 years. This bourbon is completely different from the others, showcasing a beautiful profile of black tea on the front, caramel, brown sugar, and a vibrant, effervescent finish with cinnamon and pepper pops. This one is highly available online and at the distillery!

🗺️ Visit The Bard Distillery

We also share our love for The Bard’s commitment to community and their beautiful restoration of the historic Graham school building. Find out how you can visit the west end of the Kentucky Bourbon Trail and grab a bottle before they’re gone!

So grab your favorite glass, settle in, and let’s explore this bourbon together! Click play ▶️ NOW!

👇 Have you tried spirits from The Bard Distillery? Let us know in the comments below! 👇

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Ordering Information – The Bard Distillery John Prine 2025 Edition: https://thebarddistillery.com/john-prine-2025-edition/ 

❌YOUR BOURBON JOURNEY DOES NOT SELL ALCOHOL❌

ABOUT THE BOTTLES REVIEWED

✴️ Cinder & Smoke Founder’s Select 10 Year

  • Classification: Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
  • Blended & Bottled: The Bard Distillery
  • Mash Bill: Corn, Rye, Malted Barley
  • Age: 5 Years
  • Proof: 100
  • MSRP: $100
  • Released: September 2025
  • Other: Batch X – Bottle 5 of 497
  • Provided: 10/11/25 to us by The Bard Distillery at KBF

✴️ John Prine – You Got Gold (2022 Edition)

  • Classification: Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
  • Distillery: The Bard Distillery
  • Mash Bill: Corn, Wheat, Malted Barley
  • Age: NAS
  • Proof: 101.0 (in honor of John Prine’s birthday, 10/10)
  • MSRP: $76
  • Released: October 2022, Limited to 6,000 Bottles
  • Other: 700 ml bottle
  • Purchased: 2022 for $76 at The Bard via online distribution

✴️ John Prine – You Got Gold (2025 Edition)

  • Classification: Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
  • Distillery: The Bard Distillery
  • Mash Bill: Corn, Rye, Malted Barley
  • Age: 5 Years
  • Proof: 101.0 (in honor of John Prine’s birthday, 10/10)
  • MSRP: $79.99
  • Released: October 2025, Limited to 7,000 Bottles
  • Other: 700 ml bottle
  • Purchased: 10/11/25 for $79.99 at The Bard Distillery in Graham, KY

❌YOUR BOURBON JOURNEY DOES NOT SELL ALCOHOL❌

🚨REMEMBER TO ALWAYS DRINK RESPONSIBLY🚨

❓Questions❓ YourBourbonJourney@gmail.com

NOTE: Two spirits in this review were purchased by us and one was gifted. 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.

#TheBardDistillery #CinderAndSmoke #JohnPrine #YouGotGold

#KentuckyStraightBourbon #bourbonreview #whiskeytasting #SmallBatch

#BourbonComparison #LimitedEdition #KentuckyBourbon #WhiskeyLife

Is Silk Velvet Whiskey the BEST Bourbon for Your Money?

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🥃 Silk Velvet Small Batch Bourbon Review: Is this a Great Under $50 Kentucky Whiskey?

Join Wayne and Rebecca from Your Bourbon Journey as they dive into the highly anticipated Silk Velvet Small Batch Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey! This is the newest release from Hargis Spirits LLC & Western Kentucky Distilling Co., unveiled at the Kentucky Bourbon Festival (KBF) in September 2025.

We share our tasting notes, breakdown the unique mash bill blend, and tell you why you need to grab this under $50 bourbon!

Our Tasting Notes:

  • Nose: Bright notes of Cinnamon, Caramel, and Orange citrus.
  • Palate: A unique and complex profile dominated by a distinctive Charred Orange note, accompanied by Cinnamon.
  • Finish: Long and enjoyable, with lasting notes of Orange Zest, Char, and a touch of Pepper.

We discuss why the $49.99 price point is an absolute Buy All Day Long and how this small batch is making the revived Henderson, Kentucky brand accessible to a wider audience. Don’t miss our full review and rating!

So grab your favorite glass, settle in, and let’s explore this bourbon together! Click play ▶️ NOW!

👇 Have you tried Silk Velvet Whiskey? Let us know in the comments below! 👇

Are you a true bourbon fanatic, always on the hunt for the next exceptional pour? Then smash that like button 👍 to show your appreciation for fine whiskey! Hit subscribe 🔔 so you never miss our reviews of rare and remarkable spirits, and share this video ➡️ with your fellow whiskey lovers. Let’s build a community of enthusiasts who appreciate the art of exceptional bourbon! 

#SilkVelvetWhiskey #BourbonReview #WesternKentuckyDistilling #KentuckyStraightBourbon #JacobCall #Under50Bourbon #SmallBatch #CharredOrange #KBF #WhiskeyTasting #HargisSpirits #NewBourbonRelease #WhiskeyRecommendation #CraftBourbon

❌YOUR BOURBON JOURNEY DOES NOT SELL ALCOHOL❌

✴️ Silk Velvet Small Batch

  • Classification: Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
  • Company: Hargis Spirits LLC & Western Kentucky Distilling Co.
  • Distillery: Green River Distilling & Western Kentucky Distilling under Jabob Call as Master Distiller
  • Mash Bill:
    • 4 barrels of 6.5-year-old: 78% corn, 13%winter rye, 9% 6-row malted barley
    • 8 barrels of 4.5-year-old: 71% corn, 20% winter rye, 9% 6-row malted barley.
  • Age: 4 Years Old
  • Proof: 107
  • MSRP: $49.99
  • Released: at KBF in September 2025
  • Purchased: during KBF for $49.99

❌YOUR BOURBON JOURNEY DOES NOT SELL ALCOHOL❌

🚨REMEMBER TO ALWAYS DRINK RESPONSIBLY🚨

✅ Please SUBSCRIBE and hit the LIKE button!

❓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.