Get ready for an EXCLUSIVEMichter’s 10 Year Old Rye Whiskey Review! 🔥 Join us as we recount our incredible tour of the iconic Michter’s Fort Nelson Distillery in downtown Louisville, Kentucky! We were lucky enough to snag a bottle of the highly sought-after Michter’s 10 Year Old Rye and we’re bringing you all the delicious details.
In this episode, we enthusiastically dive deep into this exceptional release, exploring its rich aromas, complex palate, and unforgettable finish. Prepare for a symphony of flavors! 🥃
We also want to give a huge shoutout to the amazing leadership team at Michter’s, especially the dynamic duo, Dan McKee and Andrea Wilson! Their dedication to quality truly shines through in this premium rye whiskey.
Don’t miss out on this in-depth review of a truly special bottle! Hit play now to experience the magic of Michter’s Rye with us!
#michters #ryewhiskeyreview #tastingnotes
ABOUT THIS BOTTLE
✴️ Michter’s 10 Year Single Barrel Rye (2024)
Classification: Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey
Company: Michter’s Whiskey
Distillery: Sourced from an undisclosed Kentucky distillery(ies)
Mash Bill: Undisclosed
Age: 10
Proof: 92.8
MSRP: $200
Purchased: 02/22/25 for $210 at Michter’s Fort Nelson in Louisville Kentucky
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.
Get ready to uncork some serious Indiana spirit! 🥃 Join us for Episode 13 of Bourbon Trail Tales & Tastes as we take you on a journey back to October 2022 and our unforgettable visit to Nashville, Indiana, home to the one and only Bear Wallow Distillery!
Forget everything you thought you knew about Indiana bourbon, because this artisan gem is a true trailblazer! We’re diving deep into the incredible story of Bear Wallow, a family-run operation that’s as passionate about their craft as they are about their Hoosier roots. Prepare to be amazed by the dedication of owner Susan Spagnuolo, a true legend who single-handedly fought to pass the Artisan Distillers Law in 2013 – paving the way for distilleries like Bear Wallow to flourish!
We’re spilling all the details from our tour and tasting, reliving the moments we were blown away by the warmth of the people and the quality of the spirits. Trust us, the Bear Wallow crew knows how to make you feel like family!
But the real excitement starts when we crack open two of their finest creations: the signature Gnaw Bone Bourbon and the coveted Gnaw Bone Bourbon Single Barrel! Get ready for our honest, no-holds-barred tasting notes as we explore the unique flavors and character of these Indiana treasures.
The burning question is: Should YOU add Bear Wallow Distillery to your bourbon pilgrimage? We’re giving you our definitive recommendations, sharing whether this hidden gem is worth a detour to Nashville, Indiana.
Don’t miss out on this episode! We’re bringing the charm of small-town Indiana and the bold flavors of exceptional bourbon right to your screen. Hit that subscribe button, grab your favorite tasting glass, and let’s explore the magic of Bear Wallow Distillery together! You won’t want to miss this one! 🔥
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.
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.
🔥 Don’t Miss This! 🔥Get ready to dive into the mystery of Orphan Barrel’s latest release: Fanged Pursuit! Inspired by the elusive bobcat prowling Kentucky’s Bourbon Heartland, this 17-year-old straight bourbon is a true unicorn. After 17 patient years in charred oak, this single-release whiskey has emerged, never to be made again. Join us as we delve into this extraordinary pour, dissecting its intricate aroma profile, the layers of flavor on the palate, and the unforgettable goodbye. And because we can’t resist a good bourbon mystery, we’ll be playing detective and trying to guess its distillery roots! We will also give you our honest recommendation on whether it’s worth the hunt!
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.
Alright, buckle up, whiskey lovers! Get ready for a showdown of epic proportions! 🥃 In this blind tasting adventure, we’re putting four contenders to the ultimate test to crown the undisputed champion of our March 2025 whiskey tastings.
Prepare your senses as we dive deep into the aromatic world and tantalizing flavors of:
Elijah Craig Barrel Proof (A125): The bold and the beautiful, ready to unleash its cask-strength magic.
Jack Daniels 12 Year (Batch 3): A sophisticated classic stepping into the ring. Can it surprise us?
Old Louisville Straight Whiskey Cognac Cask Finish: An intriguing fusion promising a unique and luxurious experience.
Oxmoor Single Barrel (Vol. 4, MMXXIV): The single barrel sensation, bursting with character and individuality.
No labels, no biases – just pure, unadulterated whiskey appreciation! 👀 Join us as we meticulously nose, sip, and savor each dram, dissecting the nose, the dance on the palate, the lingering finish, and that all-important je ne sais quoi.
Will the barrel proof powerhouse dominate? Will the aged elegance steal the show? Or will a unique finish or single barrel charm take the crown? We’re ranking them from 4th place to the coveted 1st place spot, and the suspense is building!
Hit play and join the tasting party! 🎉 Grab your own glass (of whatever you fancy!), settle in, and experience the thrill of the reveal with us. Get ready for some serious whiskey talk, maybe a few surprises, and definitely a good time. Cheers to an unforgettable evening of delicious discovery! 🥂
Don’t forget to subscribe and let us know in the comments which whiskey YOU thought would win! 👇
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.
✴️Alright, cocktail connoisseurs, get ready to elevate your Old Fashioned game! 🔥 In Thirsty Thursday Bourbon Cocktails: Episode 11, we’re diving deep into decadence with the Pecan Old Fashioned.
Forget your average Old Fashioned – this beauty is a symphony of rich, nutty notes that will tantalize your taste buds. We’re talking smooth Maker’s Mark Bourbon dancing with the luxurious sweetness of Rivulet Pecan Liqueur, all brought to life with a whisper of Toasted Almond Bitters and a seductive hint of Aztec Chocolate Bitters.
This isn’t just a cocktail; it’s an experience. Perfect for a cozy night in, impressing your guests, or simply treating yourself to something truly special.
Ready to craft this liquid masterpiece? Hit play and let’s get shaking (or stirring, in this case!)! 😉
Don’t forget to subscribe for more delicious bourbon cocktail adventures every Thirsty Thursday! 🥂
*️⃣ Add plenty of ice and stir well for 15-30 seconds until well chilled
*️⃣ Strain the cocktail into a rocks glass that has a large ice cube or ball
📍Notes:
✴️ Adjust to your sweetness level by adjusting the Pecan Liqueur. This liqueur substitutes for the traditional simple syrup commonly used in an Old Fashioned
✴️ The combination of bitters adds an additional layer of complexity. You can adjust for more or less toasted almond and/or chocolate
✴️ A wheated bourbon works very well with this cocktail due to its sweet notes of caramel and vanilla as they complement the pecan flavor.
🚨REMEMBER TO ALWAYS DRINK RESPONSIBLY🚨
✅ Please SUBSCRIBE and hit the LIKE button!
NOTE: The spirits and items in this review were purchased by us. We were not compensated by the producers for this review. Please drink responsibly.
🔥 Iowa Whiskey DISCOVERY! 🔥 We’re diving headfirst into the award-winning world of Cedar Ridge Distillery in Swisher, Iowa! 🌾 Get ready for a DOUBLE dose of American Single Malt magic as we review their flagship QuintEssential American Single Malt (the legend!) AND a rare gem from their Single Cask Series – Ex-Bourbon Cask! 🥃 Join us as we unlock the hidden flavors of Iowa’s FIRST distillery since Prohibition (yes, you heard that right!). We’re talking deep dives into the nose, palate, and ALL the delicious details. Will these bottles live up to the hype? Will we find a new favorite? 🤔 Hit play to find out!
✴️ The QuintEssential American Single Malt Whiskey
The richness of our American Single Malt Whiskey is strengthened by our immediate access to fresh, once-used barrels from a variety of sources, including our own wine and Port casks. The complexity of The QuintEssential develops as we add each unique finishing cask in the proper proportion. There is an element of interest or surprise being incorporated into the overall blend with each addition from our arsenal of complex casks.
🥃Classification: American Single Malt Whiskey
Distillery: Cedar Ridge Distillery
Mash Bill: 100% 2-Row Pale Malted Barley
Age: NAS (at least 4-5 Years Old)
Proof: 92
MSRP: $59.99
Released: 2021
Other: Batch 008
Purchased: 01/10/25 for $59.99 online from Cedar Ridge
✴️ The QuintEssential Single Cask Series – Ex-Bourbon Cask
The QuintEssential Single Cask Series explores our award winning American Single Malt in our most unique single cask selections. Aged in an ex-bourbon cask to highlight the unique flavors of our American Single Malt Whiskey in its truest form. The barrels were hand-selected by Murphy Quint, Master Distiller & Master Blender of Cedar Ridge, and release as single barrels at true cask strength.
🥃Classification: American Single Malt Whiskey
Distillery: Cedar Ridge Distillery
Mash Bill: 100% 2-Row Pale Malted Barley
Age: 7 Years
Proof: 124.3
MSRP: $69.99
Released: 2024
Other: Cask 15-56
Purchased: 01/10/25 for $79.99 online from Cedar Ridge
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.
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
Uncork the Legend! 🥃 Dive deep with us into the Jack Daniel’s 12 Year Old Tennessee Whiskey 2025 Limited Release! From the first sip to the lingering finish, we’ll analyze every aspect. Is it worth the hunt? We’ll dissect the finish, evaluate the price, and give you our honest recommendation on whether this Jack Daniel’s 12 Year earns a spot on your shelf. Don’t miss this in-depth review!
ABOUT THIS BOTTLE
✴️ Jack Daniels 12 Year (Batch 3)
Classification: Tennessee Whiskey
Company: Brown-Forman
Distillery: Jack Daniels Distillery
Mash Bill: 80% Corn, 12% Malted Barley, 8% Rye
Age: 12 Years
Proof: 107
MSRP: $95.00
Released: February 2025
Other: 700 ml bottle
Purchased: 03/22/25 for $199.99 at High Spirits in Evansville Indiana
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.
In episode 10 of Thirsty Thursday Bourbon Cocktails, we present the Maple Habanero Sour cocktail recipe. This spicy cocktail is a complex and exciting sensory experience. This easy Maple Habanero Sour Recipe is made with Russells Reserve 10, bourbon barrel aged maple syrup, fresh lemon juice, habanero bitters, and black walnut bitters.
🍁 SWEETNESS: The first sensation is often the rich, warm sweetness of maple syrup. This sweetness coats the palate, providing an inviting first impression.
🍋 CITRUS ZEST: Quickly following the maple, the tartness of the lemon juice cuts through the sweetness. This provides a refreshing, zesty counterpoint. The habanero’s heat emerges gradually. It’s not always an immediate, overwhelming burn, but rather a slow, warming sensation that builds.
🌶️ SUBTLE HEAT: Habanero peppers have a distinct fruity quality, so the heat is often accompanied by subtle floral or tropical notes.
🎆 FLAVOR FUSION: The interplay between the sweet, sour, and spicy elements creates a layered flavor profile. The maple syrup and citrus work to balance the habanero’s heat, while the habanero adds depth and complexity to the sweet-and-sour base.
🥰 FINISH: The finish can linger, with the warmth of the habanero remaining on the tongue. The sweetness of the maple may also persist, leaving a pleasant aftertaste.
🎉 The overall experience is a delightful dance of contrasting flavors. It’s a cocktail that stimulates multiple taste receptors, offering a balance of sweet, sour, and spicy that can be both refreshing and invigorating.
RECIPE
Maple🍁Habanero🌶️Sour🍋
2 oz of bourbon
.5 oz of barrel aged maple syrup
.5 oz of lemon juice (freshly squeezed, if possible)
3 dashes of habanero bitters (for the heat)
3 dashes black walnut bitters (added depth)
5 dashes of Fee Foam (or one egg white)
Dry shake 15-20 seconds
Add ice and shake 15-20 seconds
Pour into cocktail glass with an ice ball/block
Garnish with 1 dash of black pepper & 1 dried lemon slice
❇️ In this bourbon review episode, we revisit our visit to Rabbit Hole Distillery, where we acquired the Dareinger Founders Collection 2023 and the Rabelo Cask Strength Distillery Series. We dive deep into the tasting of these two exceptional, Limited Edition, offerings from Rabbit Hole Distillery, thoroughly exploring and comparing their unique aromas, tastes, and finishes. With each sip, we uncover the intricate layers of flavor that define these spirits, taking note of the subtle nuances that distinguish one from the other. Every element tells a story of craftsmanship and dedication. Ultimately, this tasting journey not only heightens our senses but also deepens our understanding of the distillery’s commitment to quality and innovation. Without a doubt, we highly recommend adding Rabbit Hole Distillery in Louisville, Kentucky, to your bourbon journey-book a tour, take a step down the rabbit hole, and savor some outstanding bourbon!
ABOUT THESE BOTTLES
✴️ Rabelo Cask Strength Distillery Series 375mil
Classification: Straight Bourbon Whiskey
Company: Rabbit Hole Distillery
Distillery:
Mash Bill: 65% Corn, 25% Wheat, 10% Malted Barley
Age: 3+ Years; Aged in #3, wood-fired, toasted & charred new American Oak barrels
Finish: 4 Months in Ruby Port Cask
Proof: 100.8
Released: 2023
Purchased: 12/15/23 for $49.99 at Rabbit Hole, Louisville KY
✴️ Dareinger Founders Collection 2023
Classification: Straight Bourbon Whiskey
Company: Rabbit Hole Distillery
Distillery: Undisclosed
Mash Bill: 65% Corn, 25% Wheat, 10% Malted Barley
Age: 3 years initially
Then Finished:
Aged in Alligator-char oak barrels for five years
Finished and aged in Pedro Ximenez sherry casks for two years
Aged in 60-year-old American white oak barrels for an additional month
Proof: 102.1
Purchased: 12/15/23 for $295.00 at Rabbit Hole, Louisville KY
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.
Your Bourbon Journey 