Step back in time with us to September 4th, 2022, as we revisit our unforgettable first encounter with the legendary Stitzel-Weller Distilling in Shively, Kentucky! In Episode 12 of Bourbon Trail Tales & Tastes, we’re uncorking cherished memories and the very bottles that made that day so special. Join us as we recount our 14th stamp on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail, diving deep into the captivating Stitzel-Weller tour experience. We’re tasting the rich, nuanced I.W. Harper Cabernet Cask Reserve and the elegant Blade & Bow Bourbon, reliving the magic and sharing the moments that truly resonated with us. Have you made your pilgrimage to Stitzel-Weller? Share your favorite memories in the comments!
In this series, Bourbon Trail Tales & Tastes, we navigate the rich tapestry of our memorable experiences on the Bourbon Trail, a journey that has undeniably enriched our appreciation for this iconic American spirit. We tackle intriguing questions such as: What stands out as the most profound memory of that bourbon trail experience, one that has etched itself firmly in our minds? What exceptional and bourbon or whiskey did we discover during this journey, perhaps one that surprised us with its intricate and delightful flavor profiles? What lasting impressions do we have of that bourbon or whiskey today, as we reflect on its complexities and how they resonate with our evolving palates and preferences? Through this exploration, we passionately recount our adventures and celebrate the stories and connections we’ve forged along the way, highlighting the essence of the Bourbon Trail.
ABOUT THESE BOTTLES:
✴️ I.W. Harper Cabernet Cask Reserve
Classification: Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
Company: I.W. Harper Distilling Company
Distillery: Sourced (From undisclosd distillery[ies] in Kentucky)
Mash Bill: Undisclosed
Age: NAS (at least 4 years before secondary finishing)
Other: Finished in Cabernet Sauvignon Casks
Proof: 90
Released: February 2022
MSRP: $50.00
Purchased: 09/04/22 for $65.00 at Stitzel-Weller Distillery
✴️ Blade & Bow Bourbon
Classification: Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
Company: Diegeo
Distillery: Combination of bourbon distilled by the Stitzel-Weller Distilling Company and other straight bourbons
Mash Bill: Undisclosed
Age: NAS (at least 4 years)
Proof: 91
Released: April 2018
MSRP: $50
Purchased: 09/04/22 for $63.00 at Stitzel-Weller Distillery
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
February 23, 2024, Wayne and I had made plans to explore Lawrenceburg and Frankfort, KY. We have been there numerous times; however, mostly for the purpose of completing the Kentucky Bourbon Trail or for another event. For this trip, we determined that we would focus our bookings at places that we had not yet experienced. This led us to Glenns Creek Distilling.
Connection to the Old Crow Distillery
For anyone who is not aware, Jim Beam acquired Old Crow in 1987 from National Distillers. Following the acquisition, Jim Beam stopped production at the Old Crow distillery and now uses a portion of the property to age bourbon. The Old Crow label is owned and produced by Jim Beam, but it is now based on the Jim Beam mashbill.
In 2013, Glenns Creek Distillery began operations in part of the former Old Crow Distillery. The 30-year abandonment of historic distillery buildings evoked a mix of sadness and curiosity. Intrigued by their past, a group led by David Meier has delved into the history of the Old Crow Distillery, seeking to understand its role in bourbon production. They have created a new bourbon in the style of the distillery’s founder, honoring his legacy. The team is committed to restoring and preserving these architectural treasures, ensuring their appreciation for generations to come.
Private Experience with the Distiller
When looking for distillery experiences, I often seek those that seem different or above and beyond the normal distillery tours. While the basic tours are great, when you have completed over 100 distillery experiences, it is important see a different side and learn from someone new to us.
This approach led me to book the Private Experience with the Distiller at Glenns Creek. Friday evening was available and that seemed to be a perfect way to conclude our day. Being a private experience, we knew that we could really spend quality time learning. The description was intriguing … —Because this is a private experience, we can modify it to meet your interests. —In this experience, we will dive deeper into the process of distilling bourbon and other spirits. —This is the experience for the true bourbon aficionado. —This private experience makes a great gift. (and it was part of Wayne’s birthday gift!)
We first watched a video about the Old Crow Distillery. It was very informative. Next, we entered the distillery and joined owner/distiller, David Meier, at the tasting table. He led us in conversation about many of their bourbons, labeling, and an overall love of what they do and the historic facility in which they operate. We tasted, chatted, asked questions, and had a wonderful time.
He walked us through their production area, the mash, the stills, aging, etc. Throughout, David was a breath of fresh air, openly sharing his knowledge, personal opinions, and passion for what they are doing at Glenns Creek. There was time to be serious and time for pure laughter.
Very few pictures were taken as we were totally engaged in conversation. What a wonderful two hours. We are so happy that David purchased the former Old Crow distillery and has brought it to life by making spirits and sharing their story. If you haven’t visited there, put it on your list.
Gift Shop
The choices were abundant for items to take home. For this trip, we decided on the challenge coin ornament, a lovely pictorial book on the Old Crow Distillery, and their in-house roasted coffee (now one of Wayne’s favorites!).
Bottle Purchases
We decided to purchase Glenns Creek OCD #5, SWHEAT, and Cafe Ole. Each is a Kentucky Bourbon Whiskey. Please refer to our post regarding the Glenns Creek Tasting Notes for additional information.
OtherOptions for Glenns Creek Experiences
They currently offer four experiences. In addition to the one we booked, the ones below are also available. We look forward to joining them on a Ground Walk in the near future.
The Visitor Experience is a one-hour tasting while seated inside the distillery. This experience is offered frequently. WebsiteDescription: This is an experience unlike any other distillery. What we lack in shine and polish we make up for with humor and wit mixed in with a good bit of information you will not hear at other distilleries. It is NOT a tour. You will be sitting inside the distillery, and you will have an opportunity to sample 5 of our distilled spirits and sit with one of our distillers (everyone here is a distiller). We do not have a set script and prefer to have a dialog with guests and answer any questions they may have regarding the process of cooking, fermenting, distilling, and aging of our spirits. We build and operate the stills and other equipment and we can explain the still operation. We will review the history of this legacy distillery and the famous brand that was distilled here for over 100 years.
The Unoaked Experience is currently available on Friday and Saturday at noon. WebsiteDescription: During the Unoaked Experience you will have an opportunity to sample some unaged distilled spirits (they have never been in a barrel) and their aged counterparts while sitting with one of our distillers in the distillery. After this tasting, you will have an understanding of what the barrel does to a distilled spirit. We build and operate the stills and other equipment and we can explain the still operation. We will review the history of this legacy distillery and the famous brand that was distilled here for over 100 years.
The Grounds Walk and Tasting is available as scheduled. Always check the calendar. WebsiteDescription: This is a limited opportunity to walk the grounds of this iconic distillery that was built in the 1870s. On this walking tour, you will learn the history of The Old Crow Distillery and an explanation of how the top-selling bourbon was made here. The grounds walk is approximately 1 hour and will be rain or shine so please be prepared for the weather conditions. You will be walking on rough terrain. The grounds walk is followed by a visitor experience where you will be able to sample 5 of our distilled spirits.
Distillery Trail Statistics
Glenns Creek Distilling, in Frankfort, KY, was our 57th distillery visit. On Friday and Saturday, in addition to Glenns Creek, we visited 5 of the 7 distilleries listed below.
Pro Tip: Plan to visit other nearby distilleries. With advance planning, it is possible to create a terrific 3-4-day weekend trip with the distilleries in the Frankfort and Lawrenceburg areas.
Frankfort, KY Castle & Key Distillery Buffalo Trace Distillery J. Mattingly 1845 Distillery Whiskey Thief Distilling
Wayne and I visited Glenns Creek Distilling 02/23/24 and had a very informative and enjoyable visit with the owner and Master Distiller, David Meier. We selected three of their expressions to take home and they are the subject of our tasting notes for today.
Selected for this Tasting
Glenns Creek OCD #5, SWHEAT, and Cafe Ole. Each is a Kentucky Bourbon Whiskey. Please be sure to read our approach to Tasting Whiskey if you haven’t already.
Kentucky BourbonWhiskey
What is Kentucky BourbonWhiskey? Bourbon whiskey must be made in the USA from at least 51% corn. 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. In addition, it must be free from added substances (except water) and bottled at a minimum of 80 proof. To add “Kentucky” to the label, it must be aged for at least one year in the state of Kentucky. For additional information, read Bourbon Whiskey, part of the Sunday Spirit Notes.
Glenns Creek OCD #5 Kentucky Bourbon Whiskey
Mashbill – Corn 85%, Rye 10%, Barley Malt 5%
Age – 44 months
Proof – 103.2
Price Paid – $70.00
Color – Medium Amber
Aroma – Cherry and corn are dominate with vanilla and baking spices as well.
Taste – Corn, cherry, vanilla, with light baking spices. It has a lot of viscosity and that which is demonstrated about the legs on the glass as well. The finish is a pleasant warm hug.
Tasted with dried cranberry – A bit less corn but the cherry, vanilla, and baking spices remained.
Tasted with a pecan – Many of the earlier flavors seem to have been muted and replaced with a woodiness, light fruit, cinnamon and a white pepper finish.
Tasted with dark chocolate – Turned up the volume on the baking spices and it has a longer finish that lingers with chocolate.
Notes – Very nice, a lot of complexity.
Glenns Creek SWEAT Kentucky Bourbon Whiskey
Mashbill – Corn 85%, Wheat 10%, Barley Malt 5%
Age – 42 months
Proof – 100
Price Paid – $68.00
Color – Light Amber
Aroma – Many sweet notes including corn, caramel, and cherry.
Taste – Corn, the nuttiness of marzipan, and cinnamon on the finish.
Tasted with dried cranberry – Removed the corn and other flavor nuances and replaced it with stronger baking spices and light pepper.
Tasted with a pecan – Corn, woodiness, and caramel. Similar to a tub of buttered popcorn that has caramel and chocolate drizzled over it.
Tasted with dark chocolate – Baking spices, a hint of corn at the beginning.
Notes: Enjoyable. Corn forward so it somewhat loses the common wheat flavors.
Aroma – Coffee, chocolate, rich caramel, butterscotch … like you walked into an amazing coffee shop.
Taste – Coffee, chocolate, a fantastic mocha.
Tasted with dried cranberry – Not appealing as it removes the terrific mocha notes and brings out more of a cherry cough syrup.
Tasted with a pecan – Back to chocolate and coffee with a bit of woodiness.
Tasted with dark chocolate – Chocolate but lost the coffee. Instead, there is cherry, baking spices, and a white pepper finish.
Notes: This would be an awesome after dinner drink. You could add it to a nice cup of coffee and top it off with whipped cream.
Final Notes and Discussion
While they are all very good and recommended, our personal preference order would be: Cafe Ole, OCD #5, and SWEAT. The first two are somewhat of a toss up but the Cafe Ole edged to the front due to its uniqueness.
The SWEAT is a very nice bourbon. Since it is so corn forward, the wheat takes a bit of a back seat. Love it as a bourbon but it wouldn’t rank high for us in the specific wheated bourbon category.
OCD #5 is terrific. Good level of complexity, excellent flavor profile, very enjoyable.
The Cafe Ole is phenomenal. It is complex with the coffee mocha nuances. It would make a great alternative for an after dinner drink if you didn’t want to have coffee, brandy, or even dessert after dinner. A neat pour of this would be fantastic.
Cheers, Rebecca
Photos by Rebecca Herman McBrayer
NOTE: The bourbons 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.
Your Bourbon Journey 