Single Barrel Rye

The Dill Weed Rye That Finally Lived Up to the Hype

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Is this the ultimate “Sith Lord” collaboration in the whiskey world? Today, we are in a New York state of mind right here in Frankfort, Kentucky! We are tasting the highly anticipated 5094 Transplant Empire Rye Whiskey, a special Tom Jones / Old Lewis Hunter Restoration Release. This incredible straight empire rye whiskey is a powerhouse collaboration between Glenns Creek Distilling and 5094 Distilling.

Mashed, fermented, distilled, and aged for over 4 years (54 months) in New York State, this bottle was acquired by Glenns Creek and 5094 in February 2026 and officially released in July 2026. Sitting at a robust 111.2 proof, this Single Barrel (Barrel 1, Bottle 59) features a heavy 94% rye and 6% malted barley mash bill. Best of all? It retails at an incredible SRP of just $51.89, and proceeds directly benefit Tom Jones’s passionate efforts to restore the historic Old Lewis Hunter Distillery!

In this episode, Wayne finally finds that elusive, bright “dill weed” note he’s been hunting for years in a rye whiskey—thanks to some expert guidance from our patron, Liz! We break down the exact, strict pre-Prohibition standards required by the Empire Rye Whiskey Association (including the 75% minimum New York grain rule and lower 115 barrel entry proof). We also dive into the tasting notes, tracking this pour from its fresh, grassy, outdoor nose of mint and dill to a surprisingly complex palate of almond, cocoa, coffee, and a light white pepper finish.

Is this a “buy, backup, and backup the backup” bottle? Find out if this unique Empire Rye completely changes how you look at craft whiskey!

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5094 Transplant Empire Rye Whiskey

  • (Tom Jones / Old Lewis Hunter Restoration Release)
  • Classification: Straight Empire Rye Whiskey
  • Company: 5094 Distilling & Glenns Creek Distilling Collaboration
  • Distillery: Mashed, fermented, distilled, and aged for over 4 years in New York; Acquired by Glenns Creek/5094 in February 2026.
  • Mash Bill: 94% Rye, 6% Malted Barley
  • Age: 54 Months (4.5 years)
  • Proof: 111.2
  • SRP: $51.89
  • Released: July 2026
  • Other: Single Barrel (Barrel 1, Bottle 59). Features distinctive mint and dill notes. Proceeds directly benefit Tom Jones’s efforts to restore the historic Old Lewis Hunter Distillery.
  • Purchased: Bought in person for $51.89 on 7/4/26 at Glenns Creek Distillery in Frankfort, KY

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NOTE: The spirit in this review was purchased by us. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is simply our opinion based on what we tasted on this day. Please drink responsibly.

#RyeWhiskey #EmpireRye #GlennsCreekDistilling #5094Distilling #WhiskeyReview #YourBourbonJourney #SingleBarrel #CraftWhiskey #WhiskeyTasting #OldLewisHunter #BourbonCommunity #WhiskeyGram #NewYorkWhiskey #PreProhibition #DrinkResponsibly 

Peerless Single Barrel Rye vs Bourbon Tasting

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Are these the ultimate fruit-forward single barrels from Kentucky Peerless? 🥃 Recently, Wayne and Rebecca, from Your Bourbon Journey, headed to Louisville, KY, for an exclusive express tasting at the historic Kentucky Peerless Distilling Co. (DSP-KY-50). They walked away with two incredible June 2026 distillery-exclusive single barrel selections, and we are breaking them down side-by-side in this ultimate pour showdown!

First up is the Kentucky Peerless Single Barrel Rye: “Maple Blueberry Crumble” (112.3 Proof). If you think you know rye whiskey, this one will completely shock you. With a rich, sweet mash profile and a low barrel entry proof of 107, this non-chill filtered pour delivers massive brown sugar, maple, and blueberry notes with zero traditional harsh rye burn. Is it a “fake rye” or just a masterpiece? 

Next, we dive into the highly anticipated Kentucky Peerless Single Barrel Bourbon: “Wild Berries & Cream” (114.5 Proof). This sweet mash powerhouse hits the palate with immediate vanilla cream and heavy raspberry custard notes, transitioning beautifully into complex layers of pipe tobacco, white pepper, and seasoned leather. 

Which exclusive bottle takes the crown? Watch to find out why these unique yeast strains and heavy wood sugar extractions make Peerless a must-visit spot on your next Louisville bourbon trip!

Don’t forget to hit that SUBSCRIBE button for more honest whiskey reviews, and drop a comment below: Have you tried a Peerless Single Barrel selection yet? 

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Kentucky Peerless Single Barrel Rye: “Maple Blueberry Crumble”

  • Classification: Straight Rye Whiskey
  • Distillery: Kentucky Peerless Distilling Co. (Louisville, KY) (DSP-KY-50)
  • Mash Bill: Undisclosed (Recognized as a high-rye mash bill, using corn, rye, and malted barley)
  • Age: NAS (No Age Statement, but typically aged between 4 to 6 years)
  • Proof: 112.3 Proof
  • SRP: $129.99
  • Released: June 2026 (Exclusive Distillery Single Barrel Selection)
  • Purchased: 06/06/26 for $129.99 at Kentucky Peerless Distillery, Louisville KY

Kentucky Peerless Single Barrel Bourbon: “Wild Berries & Cream”

  • Classification: Straight Bourbon Whiskey
  • Distillery: Kentucky Peerless Distilling Co. (Louisville, KY) (DSP-KY-50)
  • Mash Bill: Undisclosed (Corn, rye, and malted barley)
  • Age: NAS (No Age Statement, but typically aged between 4 to 6 years)
  • Proof: 114.5 Proof
  • SRP: $119.99
  • Released: June 2026 (Exclusive Distillery Single Barrel Selection)
  • Purchased: 06/06/26 for $119.99 at Kentucky Peerless Distillery, Louisville KY

🚨REMEMBER TO ALWAYS DRINK RESPONSIBLY🚨

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NOTE: The spirits in this review were purchased by us. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is simply our opinion based on what we tasted on this day. Please drink responsibly.

#Bourbon #WhiskeyReview #KentuckyPeerless #SingleBarrelBourbon #RyeWhiskey #YourBourbonJourney #BourbonTasting #CraftWhiskey #SweetMash #LouisvilleBourbon #WhiskeyTube #BourbonHunting #SingleBarrelRye #PeerlessDistillery #BarrelProof

3 Michter’s Ryes You NEED to Try: Tasting & Review 

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The Rye Trifecta: A Deep Dive into Michter’s Fort Nelson Experience! 🥃

Welcome back to another episode of Bourbon Trail Tales and Tastes! Today, we are heading to the heart of Louisville’s “Whiskey Row” to revisit a personal favorite: Michter’s Fort Nelson. As Distillery #15 and Stamp #13 on our Kentucky Bourbon Trail journey, this historic site is more than just a distillery—it’s a masterclass in whiskey maturation.

In this episode, Wayne and Rebecca are breaking down three incredible (and hard-to-find) Michter’s Ryes. From the raw power of the Barrel Strength to the “sugar rush” of the Toasted Barrel Finish, and finishing with the elegance of the 10 Year Rye, we’re exploring why Michter’s is a must-stop for any whiskey enthusiast.

We also share our tips for visiting the Fort Nelson bar, the “Bottle Your Own” experience (and why you need to get in line early!), and a shoutout to Master Distiller Dan McKee and Master of Maturation Andrea Wilson.

Whiskeys Tasted in This Episode:

  • Michter’s US*1 Barrel Strength Rye (2022): The bold, spicy baseline at 112.4 proof.
  • Michter’s US*1 Toasted Barrel Finish Rye (2023): Secondary maturation magic featuring campfire marshmallow and dark chocolate notes.
  • Michter’s 10 Year Kentucky Straight Rye (2024/2025): Sophisticated, herbal, and refined. Is it actually older than 10 years? 

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✴️Michter’s US*1 Barrel Strength Rye (2022)

  • Classification: Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey
  • Distillery: Michter’s Distillery (Louisville, KY)
  • Mash Bill: Undisclosed (Proprietary “Kentucky Style” rye; high corn and malted barley content)
  • Age: NAS (Non-Age Stated, but generally understood to be 5–7 years)
  • Proof: 112.4
  • Released: March 2022 
  • Other:  Low Entry Proof: Distillate enters the barrel at 103 proof, much lower than the industry standard (125 proof), which Michter’s claims results in a richer mouthfeel.
  • Purchased: 09/03/22 for $119 at Michter’s Fort Nelson

✴️Michter’s US*1 Toasted Barrel Finish Rye (2023)

  • Classification: Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey
  • Distillery: Michter’s Distillery (Louisville, KY)
  • Mash Bill: Undisclosed
  • Age: NAS (The base rye is typically 5–7 years old before the secondary finish)
  • Proof: 108.6
  • Released: September 2023
  • Other: Finishing Process: After aging in charred new American oak, the whiskey is moved to a second barrel made of 24-month air-dried wood that has been toasted but not charred. Entry Proof: Like the others, this began its life at a low 103 entry proof, which helps maintain that “creamy” mouthfeel even after the second barreling.
  • Purchased: 12/16/23 for $139.00

✴️Michter’s 10 Year Kentucky Straight Rye (2024/2025)

  • Classification: Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey
  • Company: Michter’s Distillery
  • Distillery: Undisclosed (Contract distilled to Michter’s specifications in Kentucky)
  • Mash Bill: Undisclosed (Known as a “Kentucky Style” Rye, heavy on corn and malted barley)
  • Age: 10 Years (Though widely rumored to be aged closer to 12–15 years)
  • Proof: 92.8
  • Released: Mid-2024 
  • Other: Barrel No. 24C1550: .
  • Single Barrel: Unlike the Small Batch US*1 line, this is pulled from a single, exceptional barrel chosen by Master Distiller Dan McKee and Master of Maturation Andrea Wilson.
  • Purchased: 02/22/25 for $210.00

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NOTE: The spirit in this review was purchased by us. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is simply our opinion based on what we tasted on this day. Please drink responsibly.

#Michters #BourbonTrail #WhiskeyTasting #KentuckyBourbon #RyeWhiskey #FortNelson #Louisville #WhiskeyRow #MichtersRye #ToastedBarrel #BarrelStrength #WhiskeyReview #BourbonJourney #DrinkResponsibly #DanMcKee

Touring Castle & Key: Bourbon History Reborn at Old Taylor

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Bourbon Trail Tales & Tastes Episode 39 – Castle & Key Distillery

Get ready for an adventure down the Kentucky Bourbon Trail as we revisit a nice stop in Frankfort, Kentucky in April 2023.  In this episode, we’re taking you back to our very first visit to Castle & Key Distillery which was our 43rd distillery and our 35th stamp in our Kentucky Bourbon Trail Book! Plus – we finished the Craft Bluegrass Trail.

Join us as we relive every moment from our initial tour of the Castle & Key Distillery . But the excitement doesn’t stop there! We’ll then uncork a bottle of their Restoration Rye 2022 Single Barrel for an in-depth tasting. What hidden notes and unique flavors await us in this one-of-a-kind pour? 

Click play ▶️ now to join the adventure!

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What’s a bourbon trail journey without a good story? 🥃 Welcome to Bourbon Trail Tales & Tastes, where we dive into the unforgettable moments and hidden gems we discovered while exploring Kentucky’s iconic trail. Join us as we uncork the profound memories that have stayed with us long after the last pour. We’ll revisit the unexpected finds and the bottles that truly surprised us with their exceptional, intricate flavors. So, what stood out as the most memorable sip, and how have those experiences shaped our palates today? Get ready for a passionate retelling of the adventures, the connections, and the spirits that make the Bourbon Trail so much more than just a destination.

#KentuckyBourbonTrail #CastleAndKey #RestorationRye #bourbontrail #RyeWhiskey #SingleBarrel #WhiskeyReview #KentuckyWhiskey #CastleAndKeyDistillery #FrankfortKY #DistilleryTour #whiskeytasting 

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ABOUT THE BOTTLE REVIEWED

✴️ Restoration Rye 2022 Single Barrel

  • Classification: Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey
  • Distillery: Castle & Key Distillery
  • Mash Bill: 63% Rye, 20% Malted Barley, 17% Yellow Corn
  • Age: 3
  • Proof: 115.8
  • Released: 2022
  • Other: Barrel 3027; Bottle 218
  • Purchased: 04/16/23 for $70 at Castle & Key Distillery

❌YOUR BOURBON JOURNEY DOES NOT SELL ALCOHOL❌

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NOTE: The spirit in this review was purchased by us. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is simply our opinion based on what we tasted on this day. Please drink responsibly.

We Visited Kentucky Peerless Distilling And Found AMAZING Bourbon

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In Episode 11 of Bourbon Trail Tales & Tastes, we recount our first three visits to Kentucky Peerless Distilling in Louisville, Kentucky. Join us as we remember that first day, December 28, 2020, the second time September 3, 2022, which marked our 11th Stamp on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail, and even our third visit, October 29, 2022 where we were able to take their production tour. We share our insights into the experiences available at Kentucky Peerless Distilling, including a production tour, formal guided tastings, and the option of a non-appointment express tasting. To fully immerse ourselves in those cherished memories, we taste from two bottles purchased on our first visits, Rye Cherry Cola Single Barrel Distillery Selection and Spiced Orange Soda Single Barrel Bourbon Distillery Selection, enabling us to relive the original experiences and further enriching our journey with yet another highlight in Our Bourbon Journey.

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: 

Rye Cherry Cola Single Barrel Distillery Selection

  • Classification: Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey
  • Company: Kentucky Peerless Distilling Company
  • Distillery: Kentucky Peerless Distilling Company
  • Mash Bill: Undisclosed
  • Other: Sweet Mash, Non-Chill Filtered, No Water Added
  • Age: NAS (at least 4 years)
  • Proof: 110.4
  • Released: 2020
  • Purchased: 12/28/20 for no record at KY Peerless, Louisville KY

Spiced Orange Soda Single Barrel Bourbon Distillery Selection

  • Classification: Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
  • Company: Kentucky Peerless Distilling Company
  • Distillery: Kentucky Peerless Distilling Company
  • Mash Bill: Undisclosed
  • Other: Sweet Mash, Non-Chill Filtered, No Water Added
  • Age: NAS (at least 4 years)
  • Proof: 107.4
  • Released: 2022
  • Purchased: 09/03/22 for $129.99 at KY Peerless, Louisville KY

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.

Bourbon 51 Engraving on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bourbon51.engraving/ 

Peerless Gingerbread House Review: https://youtu.be/U4cGE9WGAsE 

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NOTE: The spirits in this review were purchased by us. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is simply our opinion based on what we tasted on this day. Please drink responsibly.