Rare Bourbon

Old Grand-Dad: Then vs. Now (1975 vs. 2026)

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What does a 50-year-old Old Grand-Dad Bourbon taste like compared to what’s on liquor store shelves today? 

🥃 In this edition of our Friday Vintage Series, Wayne and Rebecca from Your Bourbon Journey dive into a high-rye showdown comparing a 1975 Old Grand-Dad 86 Proof miniature (from the legendary National Distillers era at DSP-KY-14) against modern Old Grand-Dad Bottled-in-Bond 100 Proof (produced by Jim Beam at DSP-KY-230).

Can 1970s copper distillation techniques and barrel entry proof completely change the profile of an identical high-rye mash bill? We add a few drops of water to bring the modern Bottled-in-Bond down to match the vintage 86 proof for a true side-by-side showdown!

If you enjoy vintage bourbon tastings and side-by-side reviews, hit that SUBSCRIBE button, leave us a comment with your favorite Old Grand-Dad expression, and always remember to drink responsibly! Cheers! 🥂

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Special thanks to Brad Bonds at Revival Vintage Spirits for helping us source these incredible vintage 1/10 pint minis! Revival Vintage Spirits: https://revivalky.com/ 

🎓 Want to earn a FREE Whiskey Certificate? Start your bourbon education journey with Whiskey University today! Take your first steps here: https://www.whiskeyuniv.com/first-steps

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Old Grand-Dad 1975 86 Proof (1/10 Pint Miniature)

  • Classification: Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
  • Company: National Distillers Products Co.
  • Distillery: Old Grand-Dad Distillery Co. (DSP-KY-14 – Frankfort, KY)
  • Mash Bill: 63% Corn, 27% Rye, 10% Malted Barley
  • Age: NAS (standard National Distillers age in this era was typically 4–6 years)
  • Proof: 86 Proof
  • SRP: ~$0.50–$0.75 (estimated original 1975 retail price for a 1/10 pint mini)
  • Released: 1975 (Confirmed via 1975 Owens-Illinois glass mold base stamp 75)
  • Other: Features U.S. Internal Revenue Red Strip Tax Stamp marked “LESS THAN 1/2 PINT”, pre-metrication 1/10 PINT fluid designation, and classic National Distillers high-rye distillate.
  • Purchased: 07/11/25 for $30.00 per mini at Revival Vintage Spirits

Old Grand-Dad Bottled-in-Bond

  • Classification: Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
  • Company: Beam Suntory
  • Distillery: Jim Beam Distillery (DSP-KY-230 / DSP-KY-1)
  • Mash Bill: 63% Corn, 27% Rye, 10% Malted Barley
  • Age: NAS (Minimum 4 years per Bottled-in-Bond Act requirements)
  • Proof: 100 Proof (50% ABV)
  • SRP: ~$22.99 – $25.99

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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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Vintage Old Crow Bourbon Tasting: Are Older Bottles Actually Better?

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It’s the end of the week, and today is a very special “Sipping on History” edition of Your Bourbon Journey! We are cracking open and reviewing two incredibly rare vintage bottles of Old Crow Bourbon sourced from Unicorn Auctions. If you love dusty bourbon, rare whiskey history, and the legendary National Distillers profile, this vintage showdown is for you! 

First, we dive into a pristine 1995 Old Crow Japanese Export (80 Proof). This transitional time capsule features a unique “distilled vs. bottled” loophole—distilled by W.A. Gaines at the historic DSP-KY-25 plant in Frankfort right before it was shuttered, and later bottled by Jim Beam at Clermont (DSP-KY-14). Thanks to immaculate storage by the Mercian Corporation in Japan, this bottle boasts an unbelievable fill level and a shocking nutmeg and lemon zest flavor journey.

Next, we break the 50-year-old state tax stamps on the ultimate “tuckaway fifth”—the c. 1974-1975 Old Crow “The Traveler” (86 Proof). This flat, briefcase-friendly bottle is 100% pure, unfiltered National Distillers juice from the golden era of the Frankfort plant. This specific bottle has a mind-blowing history, literally circumnavigating the globe from Kentucky to Italy, over to a Japanese private collection, through Chicago, and finally into our glasses. Wait until you hear our tasting notes—we discovered complex milk chocolate, dark cocoa powder, and allspice flavors we have NEVER found in a modern bottle. 

We also share stories from our recent trip to the historic Glenns Creek Distilling property (the original home of Old Crow) for their 4th of July party with David Meier, and explain how a piece of vintage boiler coal ties this whole legendary history together! 

Have you ever tried a vintage dusty bourbon? Let us know in the comments below!

If you like what we do, hit that SUBSCRIBE button to join the journey! Always remember to drink responsibly, and when you get a chance, go visit Glenns Creek and see the history of Old Crow for yourself. Cheers!

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🎓 Want to earn a FREE Whiskey Certificate? Start your bourbon education journey with Whiskey University today! Take your first steps here: https://www.whiskeyuniv.com/first-steps

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The Transitional Japanese Export: Old Crow Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey (Japanese Export)

  • Classification: Straight Bourbon Whiskey
  • Distillery: Distilled at Old Crow Distillery (Frankfort, KY — DSP-KY-25); Bottled at Jim Beam Distillery (Clermont, KY — DSP-KY-14)
  • Mash Bill: Historic National Distillers Mash Bill (Estimated around 72% Corn, 13% Rye, 15% Malted Barley)
  • Age: NAS (Not Stated, but law requires a minimum of 4 years; vintage stocks indicate it likely carries significantly more age)
  • Proof: 80 Proof (40% ABV)
  • SRP: Original export pricing varied $30-45 historical estimate)
  • Released: 1995 (Based on the “95” glass manufacturer stamp on the base)
  • Other: Imported to Japan by Mercian Corporation; features dual English and Japanese rear labels.
  • Purchased: June 2026 for $228 (including fees and tax) at Unicorn Auctions

The Globetrotting Traveler: Old Crow “The Traveler” Fifth

  • Classification: Straight Bourbon Whiskey
  • Company: National Distillers Products Co.
  • Distillery: Distilled and Bottled by The Old Crow Distillery Company (Frankfort, KY — DSP-KY-25)
  • Mash Bill: Historic National Distillers Mash Bill (Estimated around 72% Corn, 13% Rye, 15% Malted Barley)
  • Age: NAS (Typically aged 4 to 6 years during this golden era)
  • Proof: 86 Proof (43% ABV)
  • SRP: ~$5.00–$7.00 (Historical 1970s retail price)
  • Released: c. 1974–1975 (Dating verified by the transitional “4/5 Quart • 0.757 Litro” dual metric labeling)
  • Other: Double-export provenance markings; features original Italian import stamps (Ditta Sposetti-Darsena-Genova), a Japanese over-sticker, and a modern US private collection import strip.
  • Purchased: June 2026 for $475 (including fees and tax) at Unicorn Auctions

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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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Don’t Pass on This! Green River Distillery Select Review

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Is this the best new toasted bourbon of the year? 🪵🔥 Today, Wayne and Rebecca from Your Bourbon Journey are diving into an exclusive, first-look review of a historic new release: Green River Distillery Select Toasted Double Oak Bourbon!

Awarded a massive 96 points and a Double Gold medal at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition before even hitting shelves, this highly anticipated bottle is making waves. As the oldest whiskey released by Green River to date, this 8-year-old Kentucky straight bourbon is aged in signature clay tile rickhouses (Warehouse B) and finished for an additional six months in new toasted American oak barrels from Independent Stave Company.

Clocking in at a bold 115.1 proof, it serves up an unbelievable flavor profile. Expect dominant notes of sweet, gooey toasted marshmallows, rich char, and a unique “freshly put-out campfire” smokiness that balances the sweet wood sugars perfectly.

Priced at $49.99 for a 375 mL bottle, this inaugural release from the Distillery Select series is an absolute must-have for bourbon geeks and historic DSP-KY-10 collectors alike.

📅 Release Details:

  • June 20, 2026: Distillery Release Celebration in Owensboro, KY (with special tours, food, and entertainment!)
  • June 26, 2026: Louisville Tasting Room Release

Don’t miss out on this amazing bottle! Hit that subscribe button for more authentic bourbon reviews, and always remember to drink responsibly. Cheers!

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🎓 Want to earn a FREE Whiskey Certificate? Start your bourbon education journey with Whiskey University today! Take your first steps here: https://www.whiskeyuniv.com/first-steps

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Green River Distillery Select Toasted Double Oak Bourbon

  • Classification:  Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey Finished in New Toasted Oak Barrels
  • Company: Lofted Spirits
  • Distillery: Green River Distillery, (Owensboro, KY — DSP-KY-10)
  • Mash Bill: 70% Corn, 21% Rye, 9% Malted Barley
  • Age: 8 Years (Aged 8 years in clay tile rickhouses, then finished for an additional 6 months in toasted barrels)
  • Proof: 115.1
  • SRP: $49.99 for 375 mL
  • Release Dates: Distillery release: June 20, 2026 (Owensboro) & June 26, 2026 (Louisville Tasting Room)

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NOTE: Thank you to Lofted Spirits and Green River Distillery for providing this bottle for review. Your Bourbon Journey maintains strict editorial independence; samples are accepted for educational and review purposes only and are never a guarantee of a favorable review.

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Is American Blended Whiskey Actually Good? Vintage vs Modern Kessler

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Sipping on History! 🥃 Turn back time with us on this Friday as we dive into a fascinating bottle-to-bottle showdown: 1978 Vintage Kessler Blended Whiskey vs. Modern 2026 Kessler!

We scored an incredible piece of whiskey history from our friends at Revival Vintage Spirits in Covington, Kentucky—a pristine, full-sized 1978 bottle of Kessler complete with its original ATF federal tax stamp and gorgeous diamond-molded glass. Back in ’78, this American blended whiskey was produced by Seagram at the historic Lawrenceburg, Indiana plant (now MGP). Today, the brand belongs to Suntory Global Spirits and is distilled at the Jim Beam Distillery in Kentucky.

Astonishingly, both expressions maintain the exact same blend ratio: 27.5% straight whiskey and 72.5% grain neutral spirits. But do they taste the same?

We break down the nose, palate, and finish of both eras. From the old Indiana distillate’s wood-sugar concentration, butterscotch, and popping baking spices, to the modern Jim Beam low-rye mashbill’s sweet corn notes and effortless drinkability, this comparison completely blew us away. No ethanol burn, surprising legs, and a perfect candidate for a summer patio drink (Kessler and ginger ale, anyone?).

If you love exploring vintage dusties, American whiskey history, or just want to see how legendary brands hold up over the decades, hit that SUBSCRIBE button and join us on the journey!

Connect With Us & Support The Journey! 

👉 Visit Revival Vintage Spirits in Covington, KY for your own vintage catches! 

👉 Let us know in the comments: Have you ever tried vintage blended whiskey?

🎓 Want to earn a FREE Whiskey Certificate? Start your bourbon education journey with Whiskey University today! Take your first steps here: https://www.whiskeyuniv.com/first-steps

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The Vintage “Then” Bottle (1978)

  • Classification: American Blended Whiskey
  • Company: Julius Kessler Company (A subsidiary of Seagram at the time)
  • Distillery: Julius Kessler Co. Plant, Lawrenceburg, IN (Now MGP), with blending/bottling line support out of Dundalk, MD and So. San Francisco, CA.
  • Mash Bill: Undisclosed. (The straight whiskey portion used a traditional bourbon/corn-heavy recipe; the neutral spirits were distilled at or above 190 proof from corn and rye).
  • Blend: 27.5% Straight Whiskies, 72.5% Grain Neutral Spirits.
  • Age: NAS (Non-Age Stated). By law, the straight whiskey component had to be at least 2 years old.
  • Proof: 80 Proof
  • MSRP: Approx. $4.50-$5.50 in 1978 dollars.
  • Released: 1978 (Confirmed by the “78” glass mold stamp on the base).
  • Other: Features a paper federal tax strip issued by the Bureau of ATF (mandated post-1977). Bottled in a custom geometric diamond-molded glass bottle.

The Modern “Now” Bottle (2026)

  • Classification: American Blended Whiskey
  • Company: Suntory Global Spirits (formerly Beam Suntory)
  • Distillery: Jim Beam Distillery, Clermont / Frankfort, KY.
  • Mash Bill: Undisclosed. (The straight whiskey component utilizes Beam’s standard low-rye bourbon mash bill; the grain neutral spirit base is derived from industrial corn mashes).
  • Blend: 27.5% Straight Whiskies, 72.5% Grain Neutral Spirits.
  • Age: NAS (Non-Age Stated). The back label explicitly verifies the straight whiskey portion is “2 years or more old.”
  • Proof: 80 Proof
  • MSRP: $5.99 for the 375 mL flask size.
  • Released: Modern Production (circa 2024–2026).
  • Other: Labeled with state deposit refunds (ME, VT, IA) and CA CRV. Features the modern “Lightweight Traveler” plastic bottle format and contains a standard federal health warning.

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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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Bourbon Time Travel: Tasting 2004 W.L. Weller Special Reserve

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Is modern Weller just a shadow of its former self? Join us on this episode of Your Bourbon Journey as we step back in time to taste a piece of whiskey history: a 2004 W.L. Weller Special Reserve “Stubby” bottle.

Found at Revival Vintage Spirits in Covington, KY, this bottle dates back to the very early years of Buffalo Trace’s ownership of the Weller line (purchased in 1999). We put this 22-year-old time capsule head-to-head against a modern bottle to see how grain changes, barrel maturity, and production shifts have impacted the legendary wheated bourbon profile.

From “dusty funk” and lemon curd notes to a surprising lack of ethanol, this 2004 vintage proved that some things truly do get better with time—or perhaps, they just don’t make them like they used to.

In this video, we discuss:

  • How to identify a 2004 Weller using the laser code.
  • The transition from the “Stubby” bottle to the modern tall design.
  • The sensory differences: Lemon Danish vs. Wheat Bread.
  • Why 20-year-old grains, water, and wood create a superior viscosity.

Revival Vintage Spirits https://revivalky.com/ 

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2004 W.L. Weller Special Reserve

  • Classification: Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey (Wheated)
  • Company: Sazerac Company
  • Distillery: Buffalo Trace Distillery (Frankfort, KY)
  • Mash Bill: Buffalo Trace “Wheated” Recipe
  • Age: NAS (No Age Statement) — Typical production estimates for this era were 4–7 years.
  • Proof: 90 Proof (45% ABV)
  • MSRP: ~$12.00–$15.00 (Historical estimate for 2004)
  • Released: Bottled in 2004 (Laser code: 04  5444 01)
  • Purchased: 04/30/26 for $225 at Revival Vintage Spirits

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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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We Drank 1957 Sunny Brook! (Vintage Bourbon Tasting)

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Experience a Liquid Time Capsule: 1957 Sunny Brook Bourbon Tasting! 🥃✨

Step back into the “Golden Age” of National Distillers with us as we crack open a rare 1/10 pint of Sunny Brook Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey from 1957!. Purchased at  Revival Vintage Spirits in Covington, KY, this “dusty” miniature is a piece of bourbon history that predates the major industry shifts of the 1980s.

In this episode, Wayne and Rebecca dive into the fascinating history of National Distillers, the corporation that once ruled the whiskey world before its spirits division was acquired by Jim Beam in 1987. We’ll show you how to date a vintage bottle using glass codes and tax strips, discuss the mysterious “sticky” residue known as Angels’ Share leakage, and find out if this 80-proof classic still holds its flavor after 65+ years.

Will we find the legendary National Distillers “butterscotch” funk? Or has time taken its toll?

What You’ll Learn in This Video:

  • The story of “The Inspector” mascot and National Distillers’ standards.
  • How to safely open a vintage screw cap that’s been sealed shut by 60 years of sugar.
  • A deep dive into the 1957 mash bill: 75% Corn, 13% Rye, and 12% Malted Barley.
  • Tasting notes: Does 80-proof bourbon from the 50s beat modern bottom-shelf bottles?

Visit our friends at Revival: If you’re in Covington, stop by and see Brad Bonds and the team to sip on some living history yourself!.

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✴️ Sunny Brook 1/10 Pint

  • Classification: Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
  • Company: National Distillers Products Corp.
  • Distillery: Old Sunny Brook Distillery (RD #5), Louisville, KY
  • Mash Bill: Approximately 75% Corn, 13% Rye, 12% Malted Barley (Standard National Distillers Bourbon mash bill of that era)
  • Age: 4 Years Old
  • Proof: 80
  • MSRP: Approximately $0.45 – $0.60 (Estimated retail for a 1/10 pint in 1957)
  • Released: 1957 (Confirmed by the “57” glass code on the bottom and Series 111 tax strip)
  • Other: “The Inspector” on the label—a post-war marketing icon used to represent National Distillers’ “purity and quality” standards.
  • Purchased: 11/22/25 for $35 at Revival Vintage Spirits in 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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Hill & Hill 1983: Bourbon History in a 500ml Bottle

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A Time Capsule in a Bottle: Tasting 1983 Hill & Hill Blended Whiskey 🥃

Travel back to 1983 with us as we crack open a rare 500ml “time capsule” of Hill & Hill Blended Whiskey. This isn’t just a vintage find; it’s a window into the infamous “Bourbon Glut” era, when legendary Kentucky stocks were so plentiful they were blended into everyday value labels like this one.

In this episode, Wayne and Rebecca explore the fascinating history of National Distillers, the transition to metric bottle sizes, and the mystery of what’s actually inside this “bourbon-flavored vodka.” With 80% Grain Neutral Spirits (GNS) and 20% straight whiskey—likely sourced from Old Crow or Old Taylor—does that classic “butterscotch” National Distillers profile still shine through?

We’re putting this 80-proof relic to the test to see if it’s a “hill to die on” or just a ghost of whiskey past. Grab a glass and join us on Your Bourbon Journey!

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✴️ Hill & Hill Blended Whiskey (1983)

  • Classification: American Blended Whiskey
  • Company: National Distillers Products Corp.
  • Distillery: Hill & Hill Distillery Co., Cincinnati, OH (The Cincinnati location served as the primary blending and bottling hub for National Distillers’ value labels).
  • Mash Bill: Undisclosed (Likely 20% high-rye bourbon mash bill from the Old Grand-Dad or Old Crow distilleries in Kentucky, blended with 80% Grain Neutral Spirits).
  • Age: NAS (No Age Statement), but the label confirms the straight whiskey components are 4 years or older.
  • Proof: 80 Proof (40% ABV)
  • MSRP: $3.74 (Based on the vintage label stamp).
  • Released: 1983 (Confirmed by the “83” glass code on the bottom of the bottle).
  • Other: This is a 500ml bottle, which was the standard replacement for the 16oz “pint” following the 1980 metric transition. Note the “National Distillers” butterscotch profile often found in their straight whiskies may still be present in that 20% component.
  • Purchased: 07/11/25 for $75 at Revival Vintage Spirits in Covington, KY

Revival Vintage Spirits 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.

#Whiskey #Bourbon #VintageWhiskey #NationalDistillers #HillAndHill #BourbonHistory #DustyHunting #WhiskeyReview #OldCrow #BourbonGlut #1983Vintage #YourBourbon Journey #AmericanWhiskey #WhiskeyTasting #CovingtonKY

Is Vintage Bourbon Better? Four Roses Through the Eras

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Four Roses Through the Ages: A Vintage vs. Modern Bourbon Journey 🌹

Join us at Your Bourbon Journey for a truly special tasting as we “Quantum Leap” through three distinct eras of Four Roses. We’re traveling from the mid-century “Lost Years” to the “Golden” Japanese export era of the 1990s, finally returning to the bold resurgence of today’s Small Batch Select.

In this episode, Wayne and Rebecca head to the tasting table with two rare finds from Revival Vintage Spirits and one modern powerhouse. We explore how a brand that was once diluted for the American market kept its soul alive in Japan before reclaiming its throne as a top-tier Kentucky producer. From surprising butterscotch notes in a 1950s blend to the elegant, crystal-like beauty of the 1997 Super Premium, this is a masterclass in the evolution of flavor, proof, and history.

What we’re tasting today:

  • The “Lost” Years (1945–1960): A blended whiskey featuring Series 111 tax seals and a surprising hit of honeysuckle.
  • The “Golden” Export (1997 Super Premium): A Japanese market exclusive designed to look like high-end crystal, showcasing the delicate V and K yeast strains.
  • The “Resurgence” (Small Batch Select): The modern-day 104-proof powerhouse that proves Four Roses is back and better than ever.

Whether you’re a fan of “dusty” hunting or you just love a solid pour of Four Roses Small Batch, there is something in this timeline for every whiskey enthusiast.

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We highly recommend Revival Vintage Spirits for your vintage bottles: https://revivalky.com/ 

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✴️ FOUR ROSES BLENDED WHISKEY (1945-1960)

  • Classification: Blended Whiskey
  • Distillery: Four Roses Lawrenceburg
  • 35% straight whiskies. 65% grain neutral spirits. 25% straight whiskies 4 years old. 4% straight whiskies 6 years old.
  • Age: NAS (researched at 4–6-year blends)
  • Proof: 86
  • Tax Seal: Red, Series 111

FOUR ROSES SUPER PREMIUM VINTAGE 1997

  • Classification: Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
  • Company: Kirin-Seagram Ltd.
  • Distillery: Four Roses Lawrenceburg
  • Bottled: Kirin-Seagram facility in Gotemba, Japan
  • Mash Bill – typically a blend of:
  • E: 75% Corn, 20% Rye, 5% Malted Barley
  • B: 60% Corn, 35% Rye, 5% Malted Barley
  • Yeast: Commonly the V (delicate fruit) and K (slight spice)
  • Age: Typically, at least 8 years old
  • Proof: 86
  • The Design: That clear bottle with the labeling printed directly on the glass was designed to look like high-end crystal for the Japanese “gift-giving” culture. It’s widely considered one of the most beautiful bottles Four Roses ever produced.

FOUR ROSES SMALL BATCH SELECT

  • Classification: Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
  • Company: Four Roses Distilling LLC
  • Distillery: Four Roses Lawrenceburg
  • Mash Bill – typically a blend of:
  • B: 60% Corn, 35% Rye, 5% Malted Barley
  • E: 75% Corn, 20% Rye, 5% Malted Barley
  • Yeast: 6 recipes – OBSV, OBSK, OBSF, OESV, OESK, & OESF
  • Age: Typically, a blend of 6 and 7-year-old bourbons
  • Proof: 104

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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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Mint Julep VIP Tour: Log Still ’23 Bardstown Collection Review 

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🍒🔥 Bourbon Trail Tales & Tastes Episode 47: Log Still Bardstown Collection 2023 Review (Toasted Cherry S’mores?!)

Join Wayne and Rebecca on Bourbon Trail Tales & Tastes Episode 47 as they finally crack open a very special, two-and-a-half-year-old bottle: the Log Still Distillery Bardstown Collection 2023 Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey!

This unique and highly-coveted limited edition bourbon was secured during the exclusive Mint Julep VIP Bardstown Bourbon Collection Tour. Wayne and Rebecca share all the details of their special two-day experience, including a scenic train ride, an exquisite lunch, meeting founders Wally, Lynne, and Charles Dant, and a memorable first tour of the beautiful Log Still Distillery campus in New Haven, KY.

Is this bottle worth the hype (and the $199.99 price tag)? Find out if this toasted oak finished bourbon is a must-have for your collection!

🥃 The Whiskey: Log Still Bardstown Collection 2023

This 8-year-old, 117.7 proof high-rye bourbon is a truly distinctive pour. Sourced from the renowned Barton 1792 Distillery‘s high-rye mash bill, Log Still added an innovative final touch: a finishing period in highly-toasted oak barrels.

Tasting Notes (Their Journey): Get ready for a fascinating flavor profile! Wayne and Rebecca dive deep into the nose and palate, discovering:

  • Nose: Distinct cherry notes (classic Barton profile) with a beautiful toasty character.
  • Palate: An explosion of Luxardo cherry upfront, quickly followed by a savory, delicious toasted oak and char goodness. Rebecca even finds surprising notes of dark cocoa, leading to the fun description of a “chocolate cherry s’more” vibe!
  • Finish: Long, warm, and effervescent, carrying the barrel notes and a unique combination of toasted cherry and black pepper.

Don’t forget to hit the like button, subscribe for more whiskey adventures, and share your thoughts in the comments!

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✴️ Log Still’s Bardstown Collection 2023

  • Classification: Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
  • Distillery: Sourced – Barton 1792 Distillery
  • Mash Bill: High-Rye Bourbon Mash Bill
  • Age: 8 Years
  • Finishing: Highly-toasted oak barrels
  • Proof: 117.7
  • Other: 2023 with the Bardstown Collection
  • Purchased: 06/30/23 for $199.99 at Log Still Distillery

❌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.

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Revival Vintage Spirits: Finding Rare Vintage Whiskey & Bourbon

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🥃 Vintage Spirits Haul! Rare Whiskey & 70s Liqueurs at Revival Vintage Spirits! 🍒

Join Wayne and Rebecca from Your Bourbon Journey on a special trip to Revival Vintage Spirits in Covington, Kentucky! While known for vintage bourbon and whiskey, this time we’re diving deep into a treasure trove of vintage liqueurs and rare spirits perfect for classic cocktails!

🌟 What We Found in Our Vintage Spirits Haul!

🥃 Rebecca’s Rare Liqueur Finds:

We scored some incredible vintage bottles for Rebecca’s upcoming vintage cocktail series (check out her other cocktail videos!):

  • 1971 Cherry Heering: The legendary cherry liqueur—perfect for classic drinks! We’ll be comparing it to a modern sample.
  • 1970s Swiss Chocolate Cherry Liqueur: An absolute jewel in stunning opal glass! Swiss chocolate and cherry… what kind of decadent vintage drink will this make?
  • 1966 DuBouchett Crème de Menthe: A vintage bottle for an authentic Grasshopper cocktail! We got the idea after enjoying Revival’s delicious vintage cocktails made with 1970s Hiram Walker.
  • 1979 Kahlúa (Vintage Pour): We were blown away by the taste of this old-school, coffee-made Kahlúa—thick, rich, and amazing! We bought the last pour to make a special vintage Kahlúa cocktail.
  • 1970s Amaretto: Complete with an adorable box and original liqueur glasses! Get ready for a classic Amaretto Sour!

🥃 Wayne’s Rare Whiskey Finds:

Of course, Wayne couldn’t leave without a few vintage whiskey and spirit bottles of his own!

  • 1990s Four Roses (Japan Release): A highly sought-after vintage Four Roses—the closest we could get to the 1970s Yellow Label that blew us away on a previous visit! A future “official review” is coming!
  • 1970s Sunny Brook Mini Bottle: A National Distillers brand from way back! Vintage minis are a great, affordable way to “dip your toe into vintage pours.”
  • 1970s Italian Swiss Colony Port: A vintage California ruby port we snagged for a steal!
  • 1960s  Schenley Reserve Blended Whiskey! We couldn’t resist a spontaneous tasting of this 8-year blended whiskey (likely 60s/70s) found on an inventory tray. 

🥃 TASTING! Schenley Reserve Mini: The Shocking Lemon Whiskey!

We found a legendary piece of history! This mini-bottle of Schenley Reserve is a pristine example of 1960s/70s American blended whiskey. The label confirms its recipe: 8-years-old, composed of 35% straight whiskey (well above the legal minimum!) and 65% Neutral Grain Spirits.

The result is mind-blowing: incredible viscosity, rich creaminess, and an unexpected explosion of flavor that smells exactly like a lemon grove and delivers a bright, beautiful lemon-citrus palate. This tiny bottle is an absolute must-try! We’re already hunting for a bigger one!

Revival Vintage Spirits is an absolute must-visit in Covington, KY! They have so much more than whiskey—including vintage wine, port, tequila, gin, and current single barrels.

👉 Want to see more of our vintage finds or have a specific vintage spirit you want us to review? Let us know in the comments below!

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🚨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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