Don’t Buy The 2026 J. Rieger Monogram Until You Watch This

Is the ultra-limited 2026 J. Rieger & Co. Monogram Whiskey worth the $130 price tag? Join Wayne and Rebecca on Your Bourbon Journey as we unbox and taste the newly released 2026 J. Rieger Monogram Whiskey – Kansas City Whiskey Solera Reserve (Bottle 513 of only 1,000!), generously sent to us as a media sample.

Timed for International Sherry Week, this special release showcases true European Solera fractional blending across 10 historic 50- to 100-year-old Oloroso Sherry botas gifted by Spain’s legendary Bodegas Williams & Humbert. With components continuously marrying in the Solera system for 5 to 11 years—and featuring the highest straight rye percentage ever blended into Monogram (30%)—this 100-proof expression punches way above its weight class. Stick around until the end as we pull out our personal bottle of the 2025 J. Rieger Monogram (#1222 of 2,000) for a head-to-head blind-style comparison!

👇 Have you ever tried authentic Kansas City Whiskey or visited the slide at J. Rieger & Co.? Drop your thoughts in the comments below!

Connect With Us & Support The Journey!

🎓 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

❌YOUR BOURBON JOURNEY DOES NOT SELL ALCOHOL❌

J. Rieger & Co. Monogram Whiskey – Kansas City Whiskey Solera Reserve (2026 Edition)

  • Classification: Blended Whiskey / Kansas City Whiskey (Finished in Sherry Botas)
  • Company: Jacob Rieger & Company, LLC
  • Distillery: J. Rieger & Co. (Electric Park District, Kansas City, Missouri)
  • 2026 Bota Pyramid Blend: 45% Kansas City Whiskey, 30% Straight Rye Whiskey, 20% Straight Bourbon Whiskey, 5% Light Corn Whiskey
  • Age: NAS (5 to 11 years continuous Solera finishing)
  • Proof: 100 Proof (50% ABV)
  • Released: November 2026 (timed with International Sherry Week, Nov 2–8, 2026)
  • SRP: $130.00 (750ml)
  • Received: Bottle 513 of 1,000 November 7, 2026, (Distillery media sample) from J. Rieger & Co.

Buy online: jriegerco.com/shop-spirits


Link to our first visit to J. Rieger & Co.:

🚨REMEMBER TO ALWAYS DRINK RESPONSIBLY🚨

❓Questions❓ YourBourbonJourney@gmail.com

NOTE: The spirit featured in this review was provided to us as a media sample by the producer for review purposes. We were not compensated for this video, and our opinions remain entirely our own. Please drink responsibly.

#JRieger #MonogramWhiskey #KansasCityWhiskey #BourbonReview #WhiskeyReview #SoleraWhiskey #SherryCask #AmericanWhiskey #YourBourbonJourney #RyeWhiskey #CraftWhiskey #WhiskeyTasting #LimitedReleaseWhiskey #OlorosoSherry #BourbonTube

Beyond the Bourbon Trail: Why We Went Back to Coxs Creek

On Episode 67 of Bourbon Trail Tales and Tastes, we hit our 77th US distillery visit: Coxs Creek Distilling Co. in Coxs Creek, Kentucky! Nestled just off the road between Jim Beam and Bardstown (right past the Four Roses bottling facility), this hidden gem was recommended by our friends Scott and Traci—and it blew us away so much on September 4th that we went back a week later on September 11th.

Join Rebecca and Wayne as we recap our unforgettable barrel-thieving warehouse experience with owner Jimmy and Autumn, climbing the ricks to pull uncut whiskey straight from the wood. Then, we sit down at the tasting table to review four incredible, single barrel, barrel strength, non-chill filtered (NCF) bottles.

🔔 Subscribe to Your Bourbon Journey for distillery tours, single barrel picks, and honest blind tastings.

Always remember to drink responsibly and support passionate independent distillers!

Connect With Us & Support The Journey!

🎓 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

❌YOUR BOURBON JOURNEY DOES NOT SELL ALCOHOL❌

Old Rick Barrel Company 13 Year Single Barrel Uncut Bourbon

  • Classification: Single Barrel Uncut Straight Bourbon Whiskey
  • Company: Old Rick Barrel Company
  • Distillery: Distilled in Indiana (Bottled by Coxs Creek Distilling Co., Coxs Creek, KY)
  • Mash Bill: Undisclosed (Indiana Bourbon)
  • Age: 13 Years
  • Proof: 110 Proof (55% ALC/VOL)
  • Released: September 4, 2026
  • Other: Barrel 58; Single Barrel, Barrel Strength, Uncut, Non-Chill Filtered (NCF)
  • SRP: $199.99
  • Purchased: 9/4 for $199.99 at Cox’s Creek Distillery

Good Times 7 Year Single Barrel Straight Rye (Superstition Meadery Mixed Berry Rare Cask Finish)

  • Classification: Single Barrel Straight Rye Whiskey Finished in a Mixed Berry Rare Cask from Superstition Meadery
  • Company: Good Times Bourbon
  • Distillery: Distilled in Indiana (Bottled by Good Times Bourbon, Coxs Creek, KY)
  • Mash Bill: Undisclosed (Indiana Rye)
  • Age: 7 Years
  • Proof: 110 Proof (55% ALC/VOL)
  • Released: September 4, 2026
  • Other: Barrel FB-010; Barrel Strength, Non-Chill Filtered (NCF); Mulberry, Boysenberry, Raspberry Rare Cask Finish (Superstition Meadery Barrels); Limited Rare Release
  • SRP: $99
  • Purchased: 9/4 for $99 at Cox’s Creek Distillery

Good Times 9 Year Single Barrel Straight Bourbon (Mexican Vanilla Rare Cask Finish)

  • Classification: Single Barrel Straight Bourbon Finished in Mexican Vanilla and Rare Bourbon Casks
  • Company: Good Times Bourbon / Coxs Creek Distilling Co.
  • Distillery: Distilled in Indiana (Bottled by Coxs Creek Distilling Co., Coxs Creek, KY)
  • Mash Bill: Undisclosed (Indiana Bourbon)
  • Age: 9 Years
  • Proof: 108 Proof (54% ALC/VOL)
  • Released: September 4, 2026
  • Other: Barrel 1108; Barrel Strength, Non-Chill Filtered (NCF); Mexican Vanilla Rare Cask Finish & Stagg barrels; Limited Rare Release
  • SRP: $149.00
  • Purchased: 9/4 for $149.00 at Cox’s Creek Distillery

Good Times 7 Year Single Barrel Straight Bourbon (Pecan Pie Series)

  • Classification: Single Barrel Straight Bourbon Whiskey Finished in Mexican Vanilla, Maple Brûlée, Pecan and Rare Casks
  • Company: Good Times Bourbon / Coxs Creek Distilling Co.
  • Distillery: Distilled in Indiana (Bottled by Coxs Creek Distilling Co., Coxs Creek, KY)
  • Mash Bill: Undisclosed (Indiana Bourbon)
  • Age: 7 Years
  • Proof: 114 Proof (57% ALC/VOL)
  • Released: September 11, 2026
  • Other: Barrel 1131; Barrel Strength, Non-Chill Filtered (NCF); Pecan Pie Series Rare Cask Finish; Limited Rare Release
  • SRP: $99.99
  • Purchased: 9/11 for $99.99 at Cox’s Creek 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.

#BourbonTrail #CoxsCreekDistillery #GoodTimesBourbon #SingleBarrelBourbon #BarrelStrength #WhiskeyReview #BourbonReview #YourBourbonJourney #MGPBourbon #FinishedBourbon #RyeWhiskey #BarrelThieving #SuperstitionMeadery #StaggBourbon #KentuckyBourbon

Angel’s Envy Cellar Collection Vol. 006: Our Honest $200 Verdict

Join Wayne and Rebecca on Your Bourbon Journey as we crack open one of the most anticipated limited releases of the year: the Angel’s Envy Cellar Collection Vol. 006!

Scored early at the Angel’s Envy tent during Bourbon on the Banks in Frankfort, KY, this marks our very first bottle from the coveted Cellar Collection series. Master Distiller Owen Martin has crafted the collection’s first-ever dual-cask finish, taking a blend of mature 95/5 straight ryes (aged 6 to 10+ years) and finishing them in peach brandy casks followed by toasted oak barrels.

As self-admitted non-traditional rye drinkers, how does this 106.4 proof experiment hold up in the glass? Does the sweet stone fruit overpower the rye spice, or does the toasted oak rein it all in? Surprisingly, the two of us experienced completely different tasting profiles—from floral springtime peach orchards to toasted oak and herbal autumn notes.

Watch as we break down the specs, examine the heavy viscosity and legs, dive into the nose, palate, and finish, and decide if this $199.99 commemorative release belongs on your shelf!

👍 If you enjoyed this review, please hit that Like button, drop a comment with your thoughts on fruit finishes, and don’t forget to share!

Connect With Us & Support The Journey!

🎓 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

❌YOUR BOURBON JOURNEY DOES NOT SELL ALCOHOL❌

Angel’s Envy Cellar Collection Vol. 006

  • Classification: Straight Rye Whiskey Finished in Peach Brandy Casks and Toasted Oak Barrels
  • Company: Bacardi Limited
  • Distillery: Angel’s Envy Distillery / Louisville Distilling Co. (Louisville, KY; contract distilled in Lawrenceburg, IN)
  • Mash Bill: 95% Rye, 5% Malted Barley
  • Age: NAS (blend of 6–10+ year ryes distilled between 2014 and 2018)
  • Proof: 106.4 Proof (53.2% ABV)
  • Released: Fall 2026
  • Other: Volume 6 in the limited annual Cellar Collection; the first release in the series featuring a dual-cask finish (aged in peach brandy barrels and secondary toasted oak barrels); packaged in commemorative Cellar Collection display box with etched wooden cork closure.
  • SRP: $199.99
  • Purchased: 10/3/26 for $199.99 at Bourbon on the Banks

🚨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.

#AngelsEnvy #CellarCollection #AngelsEnvyCellarCollection #RyeWhiskey #WhiskeyReview #BourbonReview #YourBourbonJourney #FinishedRye #OwenMartin #WhiskeyTasting #CraftSpirits #BourbonOnTheBanks #WhiskeyTube #ToastedOak #AmericanWhiskey

Westward Milestone: Everything You Need to Know

Is Westward Whiskey Milestone Edition No. 4 the next Whiskey of the Year? With previous Milestone releases dominating year-end top 10 lists across the whiskey community, we managed to track down an early bottle of this ultra-limited 2026 release to find out if it lives up to the massive hype!

In this episode, Wayne and Rebecca from Your Bourbon Journey break down Westward Milestone Edition 4: “An Expression of Time & Place.” Crafted by Master Blender Miles Munroe at Westward Whiskey Distillery in Portland, Oregon, this limited-run American Single Malt Whiskey is drawn from an evolving 21-barrel fractional solera system featuring some of the distillery’s oldest mature stocks.

Secondary cask maturations in Hungarian oak and large French oak Armagnac casks infuse this 114-proof powerhouse with rich European brandy character. Fermented with ale yeast and double pot distilled from 100% malted two-row barley, this pour delivers an unexpected, palate-electrifying effervescence that reminds us of the legendary Starlight Champagne finish.

Does it earn a guaranteed spot in our Whiskey of the Month lineup? Watch along to find out!

Let us know in the comments: Have you explored American Single Malt Whiskeys yet? Have you tried any of Westward’s Milestone releases?

👍 If you enjoyed this review, please hit that Like button, Subscribe to Your Bourbon Journey, and tap the bell icon so you never miss a pour!

Connect With Us & Support The Journey!

🎓 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

❌YOUR BOURBON JOURNEY DOES NOT SELL ALCOHOL❌

Westward Whiskey Milestone Edition No. 4 (subtitled An Expression of Time & Place)

  • Classification: American Single Malt Whiskey
  • Distillery: Westward Whiskey Distillery (Portland, Oregon)
  • Mash Bill: 100% Malted Two-Row Barley (fermented with ale yeast)
  • Age: NAS (No Age Statement; drawn from Westward’s evolving solera containing some of their oldest mature stocks)
  • Proof: 114 Proof
  • Released: Fall 2026
  • Other:
  • SRP: $249.99
  • Purchased: 10/22/26 for $229.99 at Hi Proof (online store)

🚨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.

#WestwardWhiskey #WestwardMilestone #AmericanSingleMalt #WhiskeyReview #YourBourbonJourney #Milestone4 #SoleraWhiskey #CraftWhiskey #SingleMaltWhiskey #WhiskeyTasting #WhiskeyOfTheYear #ArmagnacFinish #PortlandWhiskey #HighProofWhiskey #WhiskeyTube

3 Rare Michter’s Bottles: Which One is the Best Pour? 

We scored big at Michter’s Fort Nelson in downtown Louisville! After three years of trying, Rebecca finally landed a coveted spot for the exclusive “Bottle Your Own” (BYO) Barrel Strength Bourbon experience. But that wasn’t all—we also walked away with the brand-new Michter’s US★1 Barrel Strength Sour Mash (Batch 26D0898) and the highly anticipated 2026 Bomberger’s Declaration Bourbon finished in Chinquapin oak (Batch 26C0634)!

Join Wayne and Rebecca on Your Bourbon Journey as we pop the tops, break down the specs, and taste all three of these limited Michter’s releases side-by-side. Is the inaugural Barrel Strength Sour Mash worth the $120 retail price tag? Does the 2026 Chinquapin-finished Bomberger’s outshine the lineup? And how does the 116.4 proof Fort Nelson Reserve hand-fill hold up against the hype? 

Grab a pour and join us in the tasting room! Drop a comment below and let us know: Have you ever done the Bottle Your Own experience at Fort Nelson, and which 2026 Michter’s drop are you hunting this year?

Connect With Us & Support The Journey! 

🎓 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

❌YOUR BOURBON JOURNEY DOES NOT SELL ALCOHOL❌

Michter’s US★1 Barrel Strength Kentucky Sour Mash Whiskey

  • Classification: Kentucky Sour Mash Whiskey
  • Distillery: Michter’s Distillery (Louisville, KY)
  • Mash Bill: Undisclosed (proprietary blend where no single grain reaches 51%, straddling bourbon and rye profiles)
  • Age: NAS
  • Proof: 111.2 (55.6% ABV)
  • SRP: $120
  • Released: May 2026 (Inaugural barrel-strength release of the US★1 Sour Mash)
  • Other: Batch No. 26D0898; limited small batch; 103-proof barrel entry; signature Michter’s filtration.
  • Purchased: 08/15/2026 for $119 at Michter’s Fort Nelson (Louisville, KY)

Bomberger’s Declaration Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey (2026 Release)

  • Classification: Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
  • Distillery: Michter’s Distillery (Louisville, KY)
  • Mash Bill: Undisclosed (high corn content balanced with a significant portion of malted rye)
  • Age: NAS
  • Proof: 108 (54.0% ABV)
  • SRP: $120
  • Released: June/July 2026 (Part of the annual Michter’s Legacy Series alongside Shenk’s Homestead)
  • Other: Bottle 826 of 2,503; Batch No. 26C0634; incorporates bourbon aged/finished in custom toasted and charred Chinquapin oak barrels air-dried and seasoned for three years.
  • Purchased: 08/15/2026 for $129 at Michter’s Fort Nelson (Louisville, KY) 

Michter’s Fort Nelson Reserve Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey (Barrel Strength – Bottle Your Own)

  • Classification: Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
  • Distillery: Michter’s Distillery (Louisville, KY)
  • Mash Bill: Undisclosed (standard Michter’s bourbon mash bill)
  • Age: NAS (Non-Age Stated)
  • Proof: 116.4 (58.2% ABV)
  • SRP: $160 (Distillery Exclusive / BYO Experience)
  • Released: Bottled 08/15/2026
  • Other: Michter’s Fort Nelson “Bottle Your Own” hand-fill experience; Barrel No. FN26F2246; single barrel; barrel entry proof 103.
  • Purchased: 08/15/2026 for $160 at Michter’s Fort Nelson (Louisville, 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.

#Michters #MichtersFortNelson #BourbonReview #Bourbon #WhiskeyReview #BombergersDeclaration #BarrelStrength #KentuckyBourbon #WhiskeyTube #YourBourbonJourney #SourMashWhiskey #DistilleryExclusive #LouisvilleBourbon #WhiskeyTasting #SingleBarrel

Kentucky vs Ireland: Which Single Malt Wins? 

Join Wayne and Rebecca on Your Bourbon Journey for a special transatlantic single malt tasting featuring two sister distilleries under the Alltech umbrella: Pearse Lyons Distillery in Dublin, Ireland, and Town Branch Distillery in Lexington, Kentucky!

Both whiskeys share a 100% malted barley mash bill and maturation in ex-bourbon barrels, but their aging environments and regional styles offer two completely distinct experiences across the Atlantic.

First, we pour the Pearse 12-Year-Old Single Malt Irish Whiskey (Founder’s Choice) at 86 proof ($69.99 SRP), matured in former Town Branch bourbon barrels. Expect vibrant green apple, bright orchard fruit, and classic Irish malt character.

Then, we crack open an ultra-rare unicorn: the Town Branch 16 Year Bottled-in-Bond Kentucky Single Malt Whiskey (Archive Series, Volume 2) at 100 proof ($399.99 SRP). Distilled in 2009 and bottled in 2025, this single-barrel release (Bottle #38 of 57) currently stands as the oldest Bottled-in-Bond American Single Malt Whiskey released to date. It even comes with a minted collector’s coin granting lifetime tours and tastings at Town Branch!

How does Irish maritime aging compare to 16 hot Kentucky summers? Is the $400 archive release worth the hype? Pour yourself a dram and join us to find out!

👍 If you enjoyed this tasting, please Like, Comment, and Subscribe to follow along with our whiskey adventures. Always remember to drink responsibly!

Connect With Us & Support The Journey! 

🎓 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

❌YOUR BOURBON JOURNEY DOES NOT SELL ALCOHOL❌

Pearse 12-Year-Old Single Malt Irish Whiskey – Founder’s Choice

  • Classification: Single Malt Irish Whiskey
  • Company: Alltech
  • Distillery: Pearse Lyons Distillery (Dublin 8, Ireland; early stock sourced from Bushmills)
  • Mash Bill: 100% Malted Barley
  • Age: 12 Years (in ex-bourbon barrels)
  • Proof: 86 Proof (43% ABV)
  • SRP: $69.99
  • Released: Core / Ongoing Small Batch (Batch 2019-B5750)
  • Other: Non-Chill Filtered, Natural Color; matured in former Town Branch Bourbon barrels.
  • Purchased: 07/04/2026 for $69.99 at Lexington Brewing & Distilling Co.

Town Branch 16 Year Bottled-in-Bond Kentucky Single Malt Whiskey (Archive Series, Volume 2)

  • Classification: Bottled-in-Bond Kentucky Single Malt Whiskey (American Single Malt)
  • Company: Lexington Brewing & Distilling Co. (Alltech)
  • Distillery: Town Branch Distillery (Lexington, KY – DSP-KY-15004)
  • Mash Bill: 100% Malted Barley (Double Pot Distilled)
  • Age: 16 Years (Distilled/Filled: July 15, 2009 [Lot 09G15] | Bottled: October 27, 2025)
  • Proof: 100 Proof (50% ABV – Bottled-in-Bond)
  • SRP: $399.99
  • Released: October 2025 (Ultra-limited single barrel yield; Bottle No. 38 of 57 from Serial No. 223)
  • Other: Non-Chill Filtered; matured in ex-bourbon barrels; includes a minted Collector’s Coin granting the holder complimentary lifetime tours and tastings at Town Branch Distillery; stands as the oldest Bottled-in-Bond American Single Malt Whiskey released to date.
  • Purchased: 07/04/2026 for $399.99 at Lexington Brewing & Distilling Co.

🚨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.

#AmericanSingleMalt #SingleMaltWhiskey #TownBranch #IrishWhiskey #BourbonJourney #BottledInBond #WhiskeyTasting #WhiskeyReview #PearseLyons #TownBranchDistillery #KentuckyWhiskey #CraftDistillery #RareWhiskey #MaltWhiskey #WhiskeyLovers

Don’t Buy A Cigar Whiskey Until You Watch This

Heading into the weekend with four heavyweight cigar blend whiskeys on the table! On this episode of Your Bourbon Journey, Wayne and Rebecca dive into an incredible lineup inspired by our recent Whiskey University cigar pairing masterclass. We’re putting four distinct, cask-finished expressions to the test to see how their layered wood finishes stack up, which bottles truly need a cigar in hand, and which are rich enough to sip neat.

From our first official Cigar Malt Scotch to the holy grail blend from Nancy Fraley, a 5-cask traveler from Old Elk, and a thieved single-barrel powerhouse from Cox’s Creek Distilling, we break down tasting notes, mash bills, finishing casks, and recommended cigar pairings for each.

Which pour takes the crown and earns a spot in our September Whiskey of the Month competition? Drop your favorite cigar-pairing whiskeys in the comments below!

Subscribe to Your Bourbon Journey for weekly reviews, distillery visits, and whiskey tastings.

Connect With Us & Support The Journey! 

🎓 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

❌YOUR BOURBON JOURNEY DOES NOT SELL ALCOHOL❌

The Dalmore Cigar Malt Reserve

  • Classification: Highland Single Malt Scotch Whisky
  • Company: Whyte & Mackay
  • Distillery: The Dalmore Distillery (Alness, Highlands, Scotland)
  • Mash Bill: 100% Malted Barley
  • Age: NAS (Components aged roughly 10–15 years)
  • Proof: 88 Proof (44% ABV)
  • SRP: ~$179.99–$199.99
  • Released: Ongoing core expression (re-introduced 2012)
  • Other: Matured in American white oak ex-bourbon casks, 30-year-old Matusalem Oloroso sherry butts, and premier cru Cabernet Sauvignon wine barriques
  • Purchased: 08/11/26 for $134.94 at Hi Proof (online)
  • Recommended Cigar: Davidoff Winston Churchill The Late Hour

Joseph Magnus Cigar Blend Bourbon (Batch 507, Bottle 49)

  • Classification: Blended Straight Bourbon Whiskey Finished in Sherry, Cognac, and Armagnac Casks
  • Company: Jos. A. Magnus & Co.
  • Distillery: Distilled in Indiana (MGP); blended and finished by Jos. A. Magnus & Co.
  • Mash Bill: Undisclosed MGP high-rye & low-rye bourbon blend
  • Age: Blend of straight bourbons aged 9 to 20 years
  • Proof: 111.7 Proof (55.85% ABV)
  • SRP: ~$199.99–$219.99
  • Released: Periodic small-batch releases (Batch 507)
  • Other: Nancy Fraley’s signature “coupage” process; finished in vintage Armagnac, Cognac, and Sherry casks
  • Purchased: 08/11/26 for $169.99 at Hi Proof (online)
  • Recommended Cigar: My Father The Judge 

Old Elk Cigar Cut “Island Blend” Straight Whiskies

  • Classification: Blend of Straight Whiskies Finished in Port, Rum, Sherry, and Sauternes Casks
  • Company: Old Elk Distilleries (Fort Collins, CO)
  • Distillery: Distilled in Indiana (MGP); blended and bottled by Old Elk
  • Mash Bill: Blend of Old Elk High-Malt Bourbon (51% Corn, 34% Malted Barley, 15% Rye), 95/5 Rye, and Wheated Bourbon (51% Corn, 45% Wheat, 4% Malt)
  • Age: 6 Years base whiskies (finished an additional 6 months to 2 years across casks)
  • Proof: 114.6 Proof (57.3% ABV)
  • SRP: ~$129.99
  • Released: Late 2023 / 2024 (Second national Cigar Cut release)
  • Other: Secondary aging breakdown: 2 years in Sherry, 6–10 months in Port, 8 months in Rum, 6 months in Sauternes
  • Purchased: 08/11/26 for $99.99 at Hi Proof (online)
  • Recommended Cigar: Padrón 1926 Serie Natural

Good Times Cigar Batch “Mexican Vanilla” (Barrel #709)

  • Classification: Single Barrel Straight Bourbon Whiskey Finished in Mexican Vanilla, Oloroso Sherry, Cognac, and Armagnac Casks
  • Company: Good Times Bourbon
  • Distillery: Distilled in Indiana (MGP); secondary finished and bottled by Good Times Bourbon
  • Mash Bill: Undisclosed MGP Bourbon (typically 75/21/4 or 60/36/4)
  • Age: NAS (typically 4–6 years base)
  • Proof: 116 Proof (58% ABV)
  • SRP: ~$149.99–$169.99
  • Released: 2025/2026 Limited Rare Release
  • Other: Barrel Strength, Non-Chill Filtered; finished using charred Mexican vanilla wood staves alongside classic cigar blend fortified casks
  • Purchased: 09/04/26 for $149.99 at Coxs Creek Distilling
  • Recommended Cigar: Liga Privada No. 9 (or Arturo Fuente Hemingway).

🚨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.

#Bourbon #Whiskey #CigarBlend #JosephMagnus #TheDalmore #OldElk #GoodTimesBourbon #CigarPairing #BourbonReview #WhiskeyTasting #SingleMalt #YourBourbonJourney #CaskFinishedBourbon #CraftSpirits #WhiskeyTube

New Riff’s Best Lineup Ever? 10-Year Bourbon vs Single Malt & DUET

Today on Your Bourbon Journey, Wayne and Rebecca present “The Full Symphony” tasting flight featuring three incredible releases from New Riff Distilling in Newport, Kentucky! 

We recently picked up our New Riff Whiskey Club bottles and couldn’t wait to crack them open on the table. In this comprehensive review and side-by-side tasting flight, we break down mash bills, barrel maturations, tasting notes, and pick our top contender for Whiskey of the Month. 

Here is the flight lineup:

1️⃣ New Riff DUET American Whiskey (Rhinegeist Collaboration)
2️⃣ New Riff Sour Mash Single Malt Whiskey (Spring 2026 Vatting 26.06.12.05)
3️⃣ New Riff High Note 10-Year-Old Kentucky Straight Bourbon

Which of these three pours took the crown, and how does the Rhinegeist beer foeder influence compare to the peated Scottish barley or the 10-year cherry bomb bourbon? Watch to find out!

Drop a comment below: Have you tried any of New Riff’s specialty malt projects or the High Note series? What’s your favorite pour coming out of Newport right now?

Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share with fellow whiskey lovers. Cheers! 🥃

Connect With Us & Support The Journey! 

🎓 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

❌YOUR BOURBON JOURNEY DOES NOT SELL ALCOHOL❌

New Riff DUET American Whiskey (Rhinegeist Collaboration)

  • Classification: American Whiskey
  • Company: New Riff Distilling
  • Distillery: New Riff Distilling (Newport, KY)
  • Mash Bill: 57% Malted Barley, 37% Raw Barley, 6% Rye
  • Age: At least 6 Years
  • Proof: 111.2 Proof (55.6% ABV)
  • SRP: $79.99
  • Released: June 2026
  • Other: A cross-river collaboration with Cincinnati’s Rhinegeist Brewery. Aged in new charred oak alongside select Oloroso and Pedro Ximénez sherry casks, married in a Rhinegeist oak beer FOODer, and finished in used American oak casks; non-chill filtered.
  • Purchased: June 4, 2026 for $79.99 at New Riff Distilling Online

New Riff Sour Mash Single Malt Whiskey

  • Classification: Kentucky Straight Malt Whiskey / American Single Malt
  • Company: New Riff Distilling
  • Distillery: New Riff Distilling (Newport, KY)
  • Mash Bill: 100% Malted Barley (a blend of distinct malt mash bills including Maris Otter, Golden Promise, Chevallier Heirloom, Scottish Peated, Barleywine-style, and Belgian Quadrupel-style malts)
  • Age: At least 7 Years Old
  • Proof: 111.7 Proof (55.85% ABV)
  • SRP: $69.99
  • Released: Spring/Summer 2026 (Vatting 26.06.12.05)
  • Other: Distilled using traditional sour mash fermentation; matured across new charred oak, sherry, and wine casks before vatting; bottled at cask strength, non-chill filtered.
  • Purchased: July 24, 2026 for $69.99 at New Riff Distilling Gift Shop (Newport, KY) 

New Riff High Note 10-Year-Old

  • Classification: Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
  • Company: New Riff Distilling
  • Distillery: New Riff Distilling (Newport, KY)
  • Mash Bill: 65% Corn, 30% Rye, 5% Malted Barley
  • Age: 10 Years Old
  • Proof: 116.9 Proof (58.45% ABV)
  • SRP: $89.99
  • Released: June 2026
  • Other: High Note Series limited release; bottled at natural barrel proof without chill filtration.
  • Purchased: June 4, 2026 for $89.99 at New Riff Distilling Online

🚨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.

#NewRiff #BourbonReview #WhiskeyTasting #BourbonJourney #NewRiffDistilling #AmericanSingleMalt #CraftSpirits #KentuckyBourbon #WhiskeyReview #HighProofBourbon #Rhinegeist #FoederAged #SingleMaltWhiskey #BarrelProof #BourbonHunting

Oatmeal Cookie in a Glass? We Tried the New B.O.B. Bourbon

Is oat bourbon the next big trend in craft whiskey? In this episode of Your Bourbon Journey, Wayne and Rebecca crack open B.O.B. (Best Oat Bourbon) from Glenns Creek Distilling in Frankfort, Kentucky!

Picked up on the 4th of July during Dave’s 250th American celebration extravaganza, this unique single barrel pour features steel-cut oats as the secondary grain in a 76% yellow corn, 19% steel-cut oats, and 5% malted barley mash bill. Clocking in at 106.8 proof and aged at least 32 months, this pot-distilled craft bourbon serves up sweet layers of burnt butterscotch, cinnamon, brown sugar, and notes reminiscent of an iced oatmeal cream pie.

Find out why this experimental bottle might just be in our next Whiskey of the Month competition and why craft distilleries like Glenns Creek continue to push the boundaries of flavor!

Have you tried whiskeys distilled with oats? Drop your thoughts in the comments below! Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share your favorite craft bourbon pours with us. Drink responsibly!

Connect With Us & Support The Journey! 

🎓 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

❌YOUR BOURBON JOURNEY DOES NOT SELL ALCOHOL❌

B.O.B. (Best Oat Bourbon)

  • Classification: Kentucky Bourbon Whiskey
  • Distillery: Glenns Creek Distilling (Frankfort, KY)
  • Mash Bill: 76% Yellow Corn, 19% Oats, 5% Malted Barley
  • Age: At least 32 months
  • Proof: 106.8 (53.4% ABV)
  • SRP: $70.75
  • Released: July 2026
  • Other: Barrel No. 1, Bottle No. 12; single barrel release featuring steel cut oats as the secondary grain, pot-distilled and bottled on-site.
  • Purchased: 07/04/26 for $70.75 at Glenns Creek Distilling (Frankfort, KY)

🚨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 #BourbonTasting #GlennsCreekDistilling #OatBourbon #CraftBourbon #SingleBarrel #KentuckyBourbon #WhiskeyTube #BourbonReview #CraftDistillery #YourBourbonJourney #BOBBourbon #BestOatBourbon #WhiskeyLovers

We Found Rare Canadian Hazmats! Barrell Decade 2 vs Nashville Barrel 35 Year Review

Heading into the weekend with some very old, ultra-high-proof Canadian whiskies on the tasting table! In this head-to-head review, we uncork two rare $200 bottles that break the 140+ proof barrier: Barrell Craft Spirits Decade 2 (141.3 proof) and a 35-Year Nashville Barrel Company Single Barrel (148.42 proof).

Can Canadian grain whisky handle extreme cask strength without drinking like fire? Does Barrell’s Spanish brandy and Hungarian oak finish outshine a pure 35-year single barrel from Louisville Rickhouse? We break down the nose, palate, finish, viscosity, and overall value to see which hazmat pour earned the top spot.

If you love exploring rare cask strength expressions, single barrels, and high-proof pours, hit the Subscribe button and join us on the journey! Always drink responsibly.

Connect With Us & Support The Journey! 

🎓 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

❌YOUR BOURBON JOURNEY DOES NOT SELL ALCOHOL❌

Barrell Craft Spirits Decade 2

  • Classification: Cask Strength Blended Canadian Whisky Finished in Spanish Brandy & Hungarian Oak Casks (Hazmat)
  • Company: Barrell Craft Spirits (Black Label Series)
  • Distillery: Undisclosed Canadian Distilleries (Crafted, finished, and bottled in Louisville, KY)
  • Mash Bill: Undisclosed Canadian Blend (Distilled each year consecutively from 1995 to 2005)
  • Age: 20 Years (Age statement; blend components range from 20 to 30 years old)
  • Proof: 141.3 Proof (70.65% ABV)
  • SRP: $199.99
  • Released: July 2026
  • Other: Secondary maturation in Spanish brandy and Hungarian oak casks; Black Label Series Hazmat release; 750ml
  • Purchased: July 15, 2026, for $199.99 via Flaviar

Nashville Barrel Company 35-Year Single Barrel Canadian Whiskey (Barrel #297)

  • Classification: Single Barrel Cask Strength Canadian Whiskey (Hazmat)
  • Company: Nashville Barrel Company
  • Distillery: Undisclosed Canadian Distillery (Bottled by Louisville Rickhouse, DSP-KY-20181)
  • Mash Bill: 100% Corn (Aged Canadian Grain Whisky)
  • Age: 35 Years
  • Proof: 148.42 Proof (74.21% ABV)
  • SRP: $199.99
  • Released: 2026
  • Other: Single Barrel Private Selection, Barrel #297; 750ml
  • Purchased: August 14, 2026, for $199.99 at Louisville Rickhouse

🚨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.

#HazmatWhiskey #BarrellCraftSpirits #NashvilleBarrelCompany #CanadianWhisky #CaskStrengthWhiskey #WhiskeyReview #BarrellDecade2 #HighProofWhiskey #SingleBarrelWhiskey #BourbonTasting #LouisvilleRickhouse #WhiskeyTasting #RareWhiskey #Flaviar #YourBourbonJourney