August 19, 2023, Wayne and I were in Tennessee for a family wedding. Of course, we decided that this was a great opportunity to visit a few Tennessee distilleries. This led us to Cascade Hollow Distilling – home of George Dickel Whisky – in Tullahoma, TN.
Tour of the Cascade Hollow Distillery
Our guide was very knowledgeable and energetic and that made the tour great. She started out by letting us know that we should keep our eyes open for wildlife, including copperhead snakes and minks. OK!
The tour was woven with stories of the history of George Dickel. It started initially in Nashville, TN but really took off when the Cascade Hollow Distillery opened in 1878 and George purchased a large share.
At Cascade Hollow, they have a specialized charcoal mellowing process. They cold chill the distillate to 40 degrees before starting the slow steep through the charcoal. Also interesting, their mellowing vats are layered with virgin wool blankets to achieve a slow, uniform flow. To learn more about the Tennessee Whiskey classification, please review this post.
At the conclusion of the distillery tour, we returned to the “Post Office” and entered a somewhat hidden back room for our tasting.
Fun Facts
Dickel is one of the few American Whisky’s that doesn’t use the “e” in whiskey. George Dickel was a big fan of Scotch, and it does not use the “e” so George wanted to emulate that tradition. In addition to using the Lincoln County Method of maple charcoal filtration, Dickel also uses wool blankets as a secondary filtration.
Gift Shop
They have an extensive gift shop and a wonderful area to have a cocktail. However, we were on a tight schedule as we had a wedding later in the evening. So it was a quick shop to gather up our favorites such as pins, ornaments, a glencairn, and of course – some whisky!! Happy to get a couple of bottles that were signed by the Master Distiller, Nicole Austin.
We did a formal tasting of the 15- and 17-year-old whiskys. You can read about that HERE.
Distillery Trail Statistics
While it is not easy to get to, we recommend it as it is worth the effort to visit.
Cascade Hollow Distilling, in Tullahoma, TN, was our 3rd Tennessee Distillery, 52nd distillery, and 84th distillery visit or event.
In addition to this visit and a family wedding, we visited 2 other distilleries over the weekend – Uncle Nearest and Jack Daniels.
Pro Tip: Plan to visit other nearby distilleries. With advance planning, it is possible to create a terrific weekend trip with multiple distilleries on the Tennessee Whiskey Trail.
Wayne and I recently selected two Dickel offerings for a formal tasting. We had the opportunity to visit Cascade Hollow Distilling last August and that is where we acquired these particular bottles. You can read about our visit here.
Selected for this Tasting
George Dickel 15-Year Single Barrel Tennessee Whisky and George Dickel 17-Year Cask Strength Reserve Tennessee Whisky. Please be sure to read our approach to Tasting Whiskey if you haven’t already.
George Dickel 15-Year Single Barrel Tennessee Whisky
Mashbill – 84% Corn, 8% Rye, 8% Malted Barley Age – at least 15 years Proof – 93.4 Other – Single Barrel Price Paid – $80.00
Color – Dark copper
Aroma – Sweetness of caramel, brown sugar, vanilla, and cherry, with a nice oak, nutmeg, and light smokiness.
Taste – Very mellow yet a full body. Sweetness of vanilla, toffee, berry, and cocoa. Finishes with nutmeg, a woodiness, a hint of leather, and a light spice.
Tasted with dried cranberry – The cranberry brought forward more smokiness but less sweetness. No real finish.
Tasted with a pecan – The pecan brought the sweetness back and the toffee and chocolate returned while the smokiness is lessened.
Tasted with dark chocolate – Now there are stronger baking spices and a Heath Bar effect with chocolate covered toffee.
George Dickel 17-Year Cask Strength Reserve Tennessee Whisky
Mashbill – 84% Corn, 8% Rye, 8% Malted Barley Age – 17 years Proof – 92 Other – Cask Strength Reserve Price Paid – $350.00
Taste – Toffee, vanilla, honey, sweet fruits, nutmeg, and dark chocolate, with smokiness and allspice on the finish.
Tasted with dried cranberry – The cranberry took some the sweetness away and muted all the flavors. Now there is basically no finish.
Tasted with a pecan – The pecan made it spicier but the toffee notes returned. A hint of white pepper on the finish.
Tasted with dark chocolate – The chocolate is interesting as it didn’t do much on the taste but the creaminess is very nice.
Discussion and Final Notes
Interestingly, there are many similarities between the two and we enjoyed each of them. ***15-year-old: Loved the sweetness of vanilla, toffee, berry, and cocoa. Finishes with nutmeg, a woodiness, a hint of leather, and a light spice. ***17-year-old: Really enjoyed the toffee, vanilla, honey, sweet fruits, nutmeg, and dark chocolate, with smokiness and allspice on the finish.
About 15 minutes after we concluded our tasting, our empty glasses were still in front of us. As we often like to do, we revisited the aroma of each empty glass. ***15-year-old: The smokiness is more apparent and what you notice first; however, then there is a lovely sweetness that shines through. ***17-year-old: The first note is toffee and chocolate and those aromas are very pronounced. In addition, there is a cherry-toasted-marshmallow aroma that is divine.
Our recommendation: If you have an opportunity to try either of these, please do so. The 15-year-old is easier to find in stores. Considering the tasting experience, availability, AND the price difference ($80 vs $350), we recommend the 15-year-old. It provides an exceptional pour of Tennessee Whiskey at a good value.
Cheers, Rebecca
Photos by Rebecca Herman McBrayer
Tennessee Whiskey
Tennessee Whiskey starts with the same requirements as Bourbon. It must be made with a mashbill that contains at least 51% corn. It must be distilled at a maximum of 160 proof (80% ABV). It then must be placed into a new, charred oak container at a maximum of 125 proof (62.5% ABV). In addition, it must be free from added substances (except water) and bottled at a minimum of 80 proof (40% ABV).
There are two additional requirements that make it unique. First, it must be made in the state of Tennessee. Second, it must be filtered through maple charcoal prior to aging. The charcoal filtering is often accomplished using the Lincoln County Process.
For additional information, please read this post – Tennessee Whiskey.
NOTE: The whiskeys in this review were purchased by us. We were not compensated by the spirit producers for this review. This is simply our opinion based on what we tasted on this day. Please drink responsibly.
Rebecca & Wayne enjoying a Chocolate Cherry Cordial
February 23, 2024, Wayne and I decided to enjoy the Frankfort and Lawrenceburg areas in Kentucky. We only had one scheduled visit that day and it wasn’t until 5PM. It is amazing all the places you can visit in a single day.
Our first stop was at Wild Turkey. We cannot wait until their Visitor Center “refresh” is completed and they are offering tours again. We were told that would be very soon. Meanwhile, the people at their outpost are terrific.
We selected a few items to purchase and then enjoyed a fantastic cocktail – a Chocolate Cherry Cordial made with Russell’s 10 Year. I asked if Jimmy Russell might stop in and was told that our best bet would be after lunch. We decided not to wander too far so we could make a return trip later in the day.
We departed and just went with the flow. Our first stop was Lawrenceburg Bourbon, which is just down the road. Then we revisited Four Roses, Woodford Reserve, and Castle & Key. It was a lovely day to enjoy the beauty of the area. We had worked a good “loop” and the timing seemed good to return to Wild Turkey. As we approached the building, a few folks said – “Hey, someone is in there signing bottlesand taking pictures.” In our minds, that could only be one person!
Visit with Jimmy Russell
We walked in to see Mr. Jimmy Russell and his lovely wife Joretta greeting visitors. We waited for our opportunity to speak with them. They were incredibly gracious and you could tell that Jimmy loved meeting people and sharing stories.
We took photos with him and he signed items for us. We stayed and talked with him whenever someone else wasn’t waiting for the opportunity. This was truly a dream come true and I admit to getting a bit emotional to finally meet him.
Jimmy got into a great conversation with Wayne about Judge McBrayer. He had someone grab publication where he looked up an article about Cedar Brook and was trying to find something about the Judge but couldn’t put his finger on it. It was a special conversation.
Wayne asked him if he loved the aromas of walking through a distillery as much as we do. He share that he really doesn’t notice the great smells because his nose is trained to look for something that is wrong or out of place. Then he knows there is an issue. Wayne also asked which of their bourbons was his favorite. He quickly noted that the Russell’s 10 Year is his pick!
He also signed my Bourbon Trail hat! This really made my day. I could have stayed longer but we really needed a bite to eat before our scheduled evening event.
What a fantastic experience to meet the “Buddha of Bourbon” who has enjoyed an amazing 60+ years making Wild Turkey whiskey! It should be no surprise that he is a member of the Kentucky Bourbon Hall of Fame. He was also granted a Lifetime Honorary Membership to the Kentucky Distillers’ Association’s Board of Directors. Read more of his story here.
Great Finds to Bring Home
In the morning, we selected the Russell’s Single Barrel and the Russell’s 10 Year. In the afternoon, we ha the opportunity to acquire the month’s personal selection by Eddie Russell of Kentucky Spirit Single Barrel.
We also got this amazing crystal decanter and a terrific Wild Turkey sign for our Bourbon Room.
Wayne and I became familiar with the Holladay Distillery and their bourbons while watching Mike Veach & Matt Kohorst tastings on the BourbonVeach YouTube channel. We first watched their tasting of the Soft Red Wheat and later the Rickhouse Proof. They each sounded amazing! We kept an eye out at our local liquor stores and have acquired three bottles over the last few months. We have also reviewed the Holladay Distillery website and now want to make time to visit there this summer! We hope you enjoy our tasting notes and want to give them a try as well.
Selected for this Tasting
Ben Holladay Missouri Straight Bourbon Whiskey Bottled-in-Bond, Holladay Soft Red Wheat Bottled-in-Bond Missouri Straight Bourbon Whiskey, Ben Holladay Missouri Straight Bourbon Whiskey Rickhouse Proof Small Batch Reserve. Please be sure to read our approach to Tasting Whiskey if you haven’t already.
Ben Holladay Missouri Straight Bourbon Whiskey Bottled-in-Bond
Mashbill – 73% Corn, 15% Rye, 12% Malted Barley Age – 6 years Proof – 100 Other – Bottled in Bond Price Paid – $69.99
Color – Medium amber
Aroma – Sweetness is the first thought, caramel, vanilla, fruity – perhaps a nice crisp apple.
Taste – Very similar to the nose with one exception, it’s got baking spices on the finish. Sweet caramel, vanilla, and apple. Light cinnamon and a pleasant oak on the finish.
Tasted with dried cranberry – The baking spices became pronounced on the front and the oak is gone. Still very pleasant. It’s almost like being at Cracker Barrel when you order that little bowl of baked cinnamon apples as a side dish.
Tasted with a pecan – The oak is more pronounced and there is still a lite cinnamon on the back.
Tasted with dark chocolate – Beside the mouth feel being great, most of the sweet notes are gone and a strong hit of cinnamon.
Holladay Soft Red Wheat Bottled-in-Bond Missouri Straight Bourbon Whiskey
Mashbill – 73% Corn, 15% Wheat, 12% Malted Barley Age – 6 Proof – 100 Other – Bottled in Bond Price Paid – $64.99
Color – Medium amber.
Aroma – The sweetness of that soft red wheat is coming through as well as red fruits, vanilla, and a pleasant woodiness.
Taste – Great mouth feel to match the viscosity/legs as demonstrated on the glass. Much like the nose, the soft red wheat is present with sweet caramel and creamy vanilla, a juicy red apple, a hint of cinnamon with a light yet long finish.
Tasted with dried cranberry – Less sweet, the cinnamon is hitting the mid-palate while the apple seems to be the finish. Not bad – but interesting.
Tasted with a pecan – The caramel and vanilla have returned but the fruit is muted and the baking spices are stronger.
Tasted with dark chocolate – There’s no sweetness or fruit and limited woodiness, but baking spices on the finish. Different yet still pleasant.
Ben Holladay Missouri Straight Bourbon Whiskey Rickhouse Proof Small Batch Reserve
Mashbill – 73% Corn, 15% Rye, 12% Malted Barley Age – 6 years Proof – 120.1 Other – Small Batch Reserve Price Paid – $74.99
Color – Medium to dark amber .
Aroma – Brown sugar, cherry or perhaps another red fruit.
Taste – Caramel, French vanilla, butterscotch, cinnamon, and other baking spices. It is 120.1 proof but it doesn’t drink like we just did a 20-point jump.
Tasted with dried cranberry – Muted the sweetness and amplified the cinnamon. Perhaps a hint of cherry or apple.
Tasted with a pecan – Creamy, juicy apple, woodiness, and a lot more baking spices on the finish.
Tasted with dark chocolate – Again, very creamy with baking spices, apple, and chocolate. Almost like a chocolate cake with creamy vanilla icing and crumble of apples and cinnamon on top. It is very good with dark chocolate.
Discussion and Final Notes
One thing is for certain, when you taste each of these, you know they are family. While they are each quite distinct, they have some common aromas and tastes that remind you that they are related.
On the nose, each had a lovely sweetness – either caramel, vanilla, brown sugar, or red fruits. The Soft Red Wheat also included that particular grain and the Rickhouse Proof seemed to bring more of the barrel notes and brown sugar. All inviting!
On the palate, they were very true to their nose and that doesn’t always happen. All had terrific viscosity with a very soft and creamy mouth feel. The BIB leaned in with sweet caramel, vanilla, and apple. The Wheated BIB was a bit more pronounced with sweet caramel and creamy vanilla as well as a juicy red apple. The Rickhouse Proof had more pop with its proof and the sweetness leaned more toward french vanilla and butterscotch.
On the finish, all were soft and lingering. The BIB and Wheated BIB lingered with a hint of cinnamon an oak. The Rickhouse Proof had was stronger with the baking spices and woodiness.
Our recommendation: If you find these locally, certainly give at least one a try. Align your selection to what your palate most enjoys. If you can’t decide, get them all as they will be a great addition to your bourbon collection. For us, we now know that we want a back-up bottle of each one plus a visit to the distillery!
Basic requirements of bourbon: Made in the U.S, distilled at <= 160 proof, barreled at <= 125 proof, aged in new, charred oak containers, free from additives (except water), and bottled at >= 80 proof.
Missouri Bourbon or Missouri Bourbon Whiskey must meet all federal requirements for bourbon AND the 2019 laws to include Missouri on the label: must be mashed, fermented, distilled, aged, and bottled in the state of Missouri; aged in oak barrels manufactured in Missouri; and, as of January 1, 2020 – made with corn exclusively grown in Missouri.
Straight bourbon means it is aged at least 2 years (and must have an age statement if less than 4).
For additional information on bourbon requirements, please read this post – Bourbon Whiskey.
Bottled-in-Bond: must be produced in a single distillation season by a single distillery; must mature in a U.S. bonded warehouse for a minimum of four years; and the aged spirit must be bottled at 50% ABV (100 proof). For additional information on Bottled-in-Bond requirements, please read this post – Bottled in Bond.
NOTE: The bourbons in this review were purchased by us. We were not compensated by the spirit producers 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.
Wayne and I were married March 17, 2020. Yesterday, Wayne surprised me with an early anniversary gift. It was an unopened bicentennial decanter of Old Fitzgerald. It had remained in a clear plastic carton and the bottle is pristine!
He shared that he spotted this bootle during our visit to Northern Kentucky and the Revival Vintage Bottle Shop in late January. He later contacted Brad Bonds and made the purchase.
About the Bottle: 1976 Old Fitzgerald American Sons of St. Patrick Bicentennial
The 1976 Old Fitzgerald American Sons of St. Patrick Bicentennial is a ceramic decanter that celebrates the 1976 American Sons of St. Patrick Bicentennial. The decanter is made of genuine porcelain by Fitzgerald Distillery, Inc. and is about 9 1/8 inches tall. The decanter is part of the Old Fitzgerald Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey Bicentennial bottling series and contains whiskey distilled at Stitzel-Weller.
Images on the decanter include: Com. John Barry, “Father of the Navy;” Maj. General John Sullivan; General Andrew Lewis, “Idol of the Army;” Andrew Jackson, First Irish President; Gustavus Conyngham, “The Dunkirk Pirate;” Col. John P. Fitzgerald, Finest Horseman in the Revolution; Tim Murphy, Hero of Bemis Heights 1777; Richard Montgomery, Hero at Quebec 1775; and Margaret Corbin at Ft. Washington, Nov 15, 1776.
Opening a Vintage Bottle
Opening a vintage bottle always requires care; however, even with the utmost care, corks can be brittle and break. This happened with this bottle on first touch of the ceramic lid.
Following what we had observed previously, I carefully placed toothpicks around the edge of the cork and carefully used a knife to loosen it. Unfortunately, I should have stuck the toothpicks in further as the cork broke off.
From this point, the main option was to allow the cork to fall into the bottle. We then strained it into a large glass a bit at a time to ensure removal of cork. An additional strain into a decanter was the final step.
The bourbon was clear, cork-free, and ready to drink!
Please be sure to read our approach to Tasting Whiskey if you haven’t already.
Tasting Notes:Old FitzgeraldAmerican Sons of St. Patrick Decanter
Mashbill – The researched mashbill for Old Fitzgerald Prime in the early 1970s was 70% Corn, 20% Wheat, and 10% Malted Barley.
Age – According to bourbon historian, Michael Veach, Old Fitz Prime was typically a blend of 4-8 year-old-whiskey with mostly 6-year-old.
Distilled – If this whiskey was bottled around 1976, and the dominate age was 6 years, it was likely distilled and barreled around 1970.
Proof – 86
Color – Deep golden to light amber.
Aroma – Caramel, apples, brown sugar, and vanilla.
TastedNeat – Like a cinnamon candy apple that you get at the fair with a hint of leather and a very long and pleasant finish.
Tasted with dried cranberry – Leather, tobacco, and a hint of apple.
Tasted with a pecan – Apple, chocolate, baking spices, and tobacco.
Tasted with dark chocolate – Baking spices, apple, with light pepper on the finish.
Additional note – About an hour after we finished the tasting, our empty glasses remained in front of us. The aroma from the glass carried a strong nose of tobacco and nothing else. It was fascinating.
Discussion and Final Notes
Tasting from a dusty bottle is always a unique experience. You quickly learn that what was made then may not taste like it does today. We have never owned a bottle of Old Fitzgerald but have had the opportunity to taste it. As wonderful as it is today, there is something about tasting history that brings it to a new level.
If you have the opportunity to taste Old Fitzgerald from this era, we highly recommend it. And if you do, let us know what you thought.
A huge thank you to our friend and bourbon historian, Michael Veach, who identified the bourbon as Old Fitzgerald Prime and the historical age of this bourbon at time of bottling.
If you are ever in the Northern Kentucky or Cincinnati area, please make plans to stop by and visit Revival Vintage Bottle Shop. It is an experience like none other.
When you first enter, you aren’t sure where to looks because you are surrounded by amazing dusty bottles that represent the history of spirits. They have great specials each day to taste these amazing dusty bottles.
If you decide you would like to take one home, Brad Bonds will guide you toward a great decision!
This bottle contains Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey. Such whiskeys have all the requirements of bourbon: Made in the U.S, distilled at <= 160 proof, barreled at <= 125 proof, aged in new, charred oak containers, bottled at >= 80 proof. Straight bourbon means it is aged at least 2 years (and must have an age statement if less than 4). In addition, to be Kentucky Straight Bourbon, it has the additional requirement that it must be produced and aged at least 1 year in the state of Kentucky. For additional information, read Bourbon Whiskey, part of the Sunday Spirit Notes.
NOTE: The bourbon 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.
Please be sure to read our approach to Tasting Whiskey if you haven’t already.
With the long-awaited release of Hard Truth’s Sweet Mash Bourbons, Wayne and I were anxious to get the bottles locally and sit down to do a formal tasting.
Basic requirements of bourbon: Made in the U.S, distilled at <= 160 proof, barreled at <= 125 proof, aged in new, charred oak containers, free from additives (except water), and bottled at >= 80 proof. Straight bourbon means it is aged at least 2 years (and must have an age statement if less than 4). For additional information on bourbon requirements, please read this post – Bourbon Whiskey.
These selections are also labeled as Sweet Mash. Sweet mash is a process in distillation that does not use the sour mash as a starter for fermentation. Instead, only fresh yeast is used. Using sweet mash has the benefit of more control over specific ingredients and the ability to use lower temperatures for fermentation. However, it does require more maintenance and extreme cleanliness to avoid contamination. For more information, please read this post – Four Stages of Making Spirits.
Hard Truth Sweet Mash Bourbon
Mashbill – 73% Corn, 19% Rye, 8% Malted Barley Age – At least 4 years old Proof – 90 Specifics – Sweet Mash, Straight Bourbon Whiskey, Small Batch, Non-Chill Filtered Price Paid – $44.99
Color – medium copper
Aroma – sweetness of caramel and vanilla with a hint of nutmeg and perhaps a fruit such as apple or berry.
Taste – less sweetness that on the nose but a very light hint of caramel; has a black pepper finish.
Tasted with dried cranberry – the berry and red apple from the nose is coming forward with the cranberry, the finish is greatly softened but still carries a note of pepper.
Tasted with a pecan – this brought the pepper forward, but it is more of a white pepper and a nice sweetness from caramel is present.
Tasted with dark chocolate – caramel and chocolate are strong as well as some baking spices and hints of oak.
Notes: A very good 90 proof bourbon for under $45.
Hard Truth Sweet Mash Wheated Bourbon – Bottled in Bond
Mashbill – 69% Corn, 19% Wheat, 12% Malted Barley Age – At least 4 years old Proof – 100 Specifics – Sweet Mash, Wheated Bourbon, Straight Bourbon Whiskey, Small Batch, Non-Chill Filtered, Bottled in Bond Price Paid – $54.99
Color – medium copper
Aroma – the sweetness of the wheat really comes through as well as honey and light baking spices, it is very inviting, much like a muffin right fresh from the oven and you can’t wait to taste it.
Taste – sweet wheat and honey, much like the nose, and a very nice finish of cinnamon and perhaps another baking spice.
Tasted with dried cranberry – brought forward a strong black pepper and the lovely wheat sweetness has faded.
Tasted with a pecan – a sweet caramel comes forward and the wheat is present, the finish is more of a light white pepper.
Tasted with dark chocolate – baking spices are really forward but not on the finish, the sweetness seems to have disappeared.
Notes: This is a fine wheated bourbon in the $50 price range. This is something that we will want to keep on our bourbon shelf.
Hard Truth Sweet Mash Four Grain Bourbon – Bottled in Bond
Mashbill – 78% Corn, 9% Rye, 9% Wheat, 4% Malted Barley Age – At least 4 years old Proof – 100 Specifics – Sweet Mash, Four Grain Bourbon, Straight Bourbon Whiskey, Small Batch, Non-Chill Filtered, Bottled in Bond Price Paid – $59.99
Color – medium copper
Aroma – quite different from the other two, notes of sweet cherries. Interesting that there is 78% corn yet it isn’t on the nose.
Taste – cherry, baking spices, and a minimal finish, perhaps like a cinnamon wheat cereal, not as much grain as anticipated in a four grain bourbon.
Tasted with dried cranberry – brings the wheat forward, really warm and inviting.
Tasted with a pecan – now it has the sweetness of caramel and a cinnamon baking spice with a light finish.
Tasted with dark chocolate – very similar as with the pecan … light caramel and cinnamon.
Notes: It is a nice pour of a four grain although not what we were expecting. While equal percentages (9%) in the mashbill, the wheat is a bit more prevalent than the rye. It drinks much more like a “regular” bourbon than a four grain. Perhaps the 9% rye and 9% wheat are not enough of those grains to make a significant difference.
Comparison and Ranking
Aroma Wayne: Wheated, Four Grain, Bourbon Rebecca: Four Grain, Wheated, Bourbon Taste Wayne: Wheated, Four Grain, Bourbon Rebecca: Wheated, Four Grain, Bourbon Overall Wayne: Wheated, Four Grain, Bourbon Rebecca: Wheated, Four Grain, Bourbon
Discussion – Each of the new Sour Mash offerings from Hard Truth is very good and at a reasonable price point. The Sour Mash Bourbon is good and good value for the money. The Sour Mash Four Grain Bourbon offers a different taste profile even though the grains do not stand out like we have experienced in other four grains. That said, due to the price point and taste profile, we would certainly recommend it. If we could only buy one, it would be the Sour Mash Wheated.
We have loved Hard Truth Ryes for a few years and it is wonderful to see them release these new Sour Mash Bourbon varieties with a very approachable price point.
Cheers, Rebecca
Photos by Rebecca Herman McBrayer
NOTE: The bourbons in this review were purchased by us. We were not compensated by the spirit producers for this review. This is simply our opinion based on what we tasted on this day. Please drink responsibly.
Please be sure to read our approach to Tasting Whiskey if you haven’t already.
For this tasting, Wayne and I tasted the recent release from Buffalo Trace, Traveller Whiskey. From the Buffalo Trace site: For this first-of-its-kind collaboration from Buffalo Trace Distillery, Traveller brings together the collective artistry of 8X Grammy Award-Winning Artist Chris Stapleton and Buffalo Trace Distillery Master Distiller, Harlen Wheatley.
What is a Blended Whiskey? A Blended Whiskey is a mixture of different types of whiskeys, sometimes with other ingredients. It’s typically made by mixing one or more higher-quality straight or single malt whiskeys with less expensive spirits, neutral spirits, colorings, and flavorings. For example, a blended Scotch might be a combination of a barrel-aged malt whisky and some other grain whisky. In the US, blended whiskey is a combination of straight whiskies and neutral spirits containing at least 20 percent straight whiskey and bottled at not less than 80 proof. For additional information, read Blended Whiskey, part of the Sunday Spirit Notes.
Buffalo Trace Welcome Center
Traveller Whiskey Blend No. 40
Mashbill – Unknown a blended whiskey
Age – Unknown a blended whiskey
Blend – From the Buffalo Trace site: In pursuit of the finest possible whiskey, over 50 blends were sampled before making Blend No. 40 the chosen combination. Blend No. 40 is the carefully curated result of countless hours of testing & tasting and is exactly what you’d expect – a premium whiskey that speaks for itself.
Proof – 90
Price Paid – $39.99
Color – golden
Aroma – very light, sweet such as honey or fruit, not distinct, doesn’t draw you in but also doesn’t push you away.
TastedNeat – somewhat of a creamy mouthfeel, like the nose, it is sweet with hints of maple, caramel, or some sort of dessert.
Tasted with dried cranberry – sweetness again with nothing distinct or specific.
Tasted with a pecan – brought out some complexity of oak and white pepper.
Tasted with dark chocolate – the creamy mouthfeel returned, but it is rather one note.
Discussion and Final Notes
In general, it is a rather nondescript whiskey that lacks complexity. However, with the marketing, availability, and price point, it has gained a lot of attention by those who might not typically drink whiskey or bourbon.
If you are seeking a sweet, creamy, lower proof whiskey at a good price, you should give Traveller a try. For this reason, it is also a great bottle for bourbon enthusiasts to keep on their shelf for friends who might not appreciate a more robust or complex pour of bourbon.
Cheers, Rebecca & Wayne
Photos by Rebecca Herman McBrayer
NOTE: The whiskey 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.
July 31, 2022, Wayne and I visited Second Sight Spirits for the first time. We were in Cincinnati for a weekend event with the Reds and planned three distillery visits within our allotted time. Second Sight was our final stop on a Sunday afternoon.
Located in Ludlow, KY which is just south of Cincinnati, OH, on the south side of the Ohio River, this quaint town is approximately 2 square miles and was incorporated in 1864. Elm St., where Second Sight is located, is definitely a happening part of this small community.
Distillery Tour & Visit
We learned that founders Rick Couch and Carus Waggoner have been friends since grade school. Their backgrounds of Rick being a mechanical engineer and Carus an industrial designer let them to careers on the Las Vegas Strip. Carus shared stories of their time in Vegas and working on Cirque Du Soleil’s LOVE as well as Viva Elvis. I won’t share the full story of how they got involved with assembling a very large still, you will need to go on the tour to hear all about that!
He shared their story of living their vision of creating an artisan distillery to focus on local products in a fun and innovative way. We followed their distillation process, toured the rick closet and storage area. All that they do is accomplished in a very small footprint.
The energy and creativity of Rick and Carus are found in every aspect of their business. Not only do they create a fun and creative experience for visitors, but every employee that we have spoken with always says it is truly a family and they love being a part of it. The culture that they have created helps them to achieve their goal of being a company that excites, engages, and entertains.
Time and time again, when people ask about our favorite distillery or experience along the Trail, Wayne always says that his most memorable and most unique is Second Sight Spirits. We highly recommend that you carve out time in your Trail planning to include a visit to Ludlow, KY!
Photos from the tour: Worm crafted from an old street lamp and other parts found on Craig’s List. Their Rick Closet – perfect for their small barrel sizes. Special spices and grains in containers. Founder Carus Waggoner sharing their story. The Mystic Mustache Ride (yes, it runs) in the bar area of the lounge.
Gift Shop
They have a great selection of shirts. We purchased a pin for my distillery hat, an ornament for our bourbon tree, a glass, and T-shirts.
Bottles Available for Sale
In addition to their Oak Eye Kentucky Bourbon Whiskey, Second Sight Spirits also produce a Hazelnut Liquor (Queen MAB) and several varieties of rum including: unbarreled rum, spiced rum, smoked cherry rum, and bourbon barreled rum. We opted to bring home a variety of their spirits.
Your Bourbon Journey 