Wayne found a store pick of Old Forester Single Barrel at Beverage Barn in Henderson on Friday. He wanted to crack it open and I realized that we hadn’t done a formal tasting of Old Forester 1924. Thus, they seemed like a great pair to taste together!
Selected for today’s tasting – each by Old Forester: Old Forester 1924 10-Year-Old Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey and Old Forester Single Barrel, Barrel Strength Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey selected by Beverage Barn.
Please be sure to read our approach to Tasting Whiskey if you haven’t already.
Old Forester 1924 10-Year-Old Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
Aroma – Brown sugar and banana – reminiscent of banana’s foster – with cinnamon and nutmeg. Oak and leather are also noted.
Tasted Neat – There is immediately a creamy mouthfeel. Similar to the nose, brown sugar and bananas greet you and have you thinking about ordering a banana’s foster at the first opportunity. There is also caramel, vanilla, maple, light leather and oak.
Finish – The sweet and banana notes fade while cinnamon mixes with smoky notes from the wood and it is very earthy and savory with notes of allspice and white pepper. It provides a very nice finish.
Tasted with dried cranberry – The original flavors are gone but there is a vanilla cream sweetness. Overall, the cranberry muted a lot of the goodness of the original pour.
Tasted with a pecan – This was interesting as it brought caramel and oak forward as well as dark chocolate – much like a chocolate covered banana offered at the fair grounds. Nutmeg takes over as the dominant spice component. Overall, the pecan brought out some nice flavors.
Tasted with dark chocolate – This was not pleasant. It seemed to flatten it out and remove any distinct flavors.
Old Forester Single Barrel, Barrel Strength Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey selected by Beverage Barn
Mashbill – 72% corn, 18% rye, and 10% malted barley Age – at least 4 years Other – Warehouse I; Floor 2 Proof – 131.1 Price Paid – $99.95 (plus tax)
Appearance – Medium Amber
Aroma – It somewhat dances with your nose. There are notes of vanilla, cotton candy, dark fruit, chocolate, cherries, oak, and nutmeg.
Tasted Neat – There are many flavors coming forward including wood, toffee, dark cherry, dark brown sugar, dark chocolate, leather, and various spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and clove.
Finish – Medium to long finish with black pepper, cinnamon, and cherries. It continues with seasoned oak and burnt caramel then ends ending with cocoa and leather notes.
Tasted with dried cranberry – This eliminated the sweet notes and created zesty notes in its place. The finish is minimal. Not a good combination for this pour.
Tasted with a pecan – Very wood forward, pecan, leather, cinnamon, dark chocolate covered cherries, and plum. The pecan played well with this single barrel.
Tasted with dark chocolate – Creamy mouthfeel with vanilla cream and cinnamon. Minimal finish. Nothing bad but nothing great either.
Discussion and Final Notes
Old Forester 1924 10-Year-Old Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey: This mashbill sets itself apart from the standard Old Forester. The 10-year aging contributes to a remarkable maturity, adding complexity from the barrel that we appreciate. What we enjoyed is how the nose aligns with the palate, and the delightful hint of Banana’s Foster, which, surprisingly, doesn’t overwhelm with sweetness, thanks to the underlying barrel and smokiness. When considering the price point, there are other options in this range that we enjoy, but this one stands out. We would recommend trying it first to see if it matches your taste profile. If you are a fan of bananas or Banana’s Foster, then this is a bottle worth acquiring.
Old Forester Single Barrel, Barrel Strength Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey selected by Beverage Barn: The single barrel drinks much differently than a traditional Old Forrester. We are wondering if the higher proof and barrel strength allows additional flavors to remain present in a very positive way. Even with the higher proof, it drinks very smoothly and feels more like a 115-120 proof range. For just under $100 and with the flavor profile and high proof, this bottle is a good value and one that we recommend. Scanning the web, there seem to be quite a few store picks for the Old Forester Single Barrel so it is very possible it is available in your area. Check with your favorite liquor store.
This was a fun and interesting taste comparison. Glad we decided to pair them together as they generated a lot of conversation and we realized that these are definitely our two favorite Old Forester expressions.
Bourbon Whiskey: 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 on bourbon requirements, please read this post – Bourbon Whiskey.
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.
It is hard to believe that last week at this time Wayne and I were attending the Bourbon Women SIPosium in Louisville. One of the events of the weekend was an ongoing auction. Thrilled that, together, we won four auctions. This tasting is from one of those winning auctions.
This tasting from a three-bottle set of J.T. Meleck. We will be tasting the two rice whiskeys but not the rice vodka.
From the J.T. Meleck Distillers Website: One family, one farm, one great idea… It begins in 1896, when John Meleck had the crazy idea to grow his 1st rice on 20 acres of marshland in s. Louisiana. Against the odds, the name J.T. Meleck became synonymous with Louisiana rice, but to us he is great, great uncle John. Five generations later we still grow rice – and now crawfish – on the same 20 acres as our Uncle John. We’ve grown since then but we are still as connected to the dirt as J.T. Meleck. I began thinking, what if we could make a great spirit from our rice? It would make our Uncle John proud. The result is something truly special. It’s American Rice, born right here on our farm, just off hwy 35 in Branch, LA. We´re proud to take our rice from grain to bottle. We work the dirt and grow the seed, just like Uncle John did. That’s why we’ve named it J.T. Meleck. Because our crazy idea has managed to create a whole new Louisiana classic. One that goes straight from our farm to your front porch.
J.T. Meleck American Rice Whiskey: Released in 2022, this is J.T. Meleck’s staple and long talked about American Rice Whiskey. Aged in new American oak barrels for almost 5 years their whiskey is amber in color and deep in intensity.
J.T. Meleck Single Barrel Cask Strength American Rice Whiskey: This single barrel pick is 120.4 Proof/ 60.25% alcohol, and aged for 4+ years. J.T. Meleck’s Single Barrel Program was launched in October of 2022. They decided to launch this program after discovering that some barrels were not like the others. They were meant to be enjoyed separately. Whether it be the nose, flavor or finish, they knew these barrels were special and needed to be shared with their fans.
Please be sure to read our approach to Tasting Whiskey if you haven’t already.
J.T. Meleck American Rice WhiskeySmall Batch
Mashbill – 100% Rice Age – at least 4 years Proof – 96 Specifics – Small Batch #323 Price Paid – $31.67 (average of total auction price for all three at $95; MSRP $44.99)
Color – Medium Honey
Aroma – A light sweetness such as caramel or vanilla pudding, baking spices – mostly cinnamon, and a light berry note – perhaps raspberry.
Tasted Neat – Sweet and savory at the same time. The sweetness is confectionery and leans toward cotton candy. The savory note includes a light taste of black pepper.
Finish – There are nice notes of wood, tobacco, and medium spice flavors. It finishes very nicely with savory feel.
Tasted with dried cranberry – This created an immediate taste of orange zest on the palate. The sweetness and pepper have vanished to give way to a light and refreshing orange sherbet experience.
Tasted with a pecan – Spice and wood is definitely prominent. Not much else with the pecan.
J.T. Meleck Single Barrel Cask Strength American Rice Whiskey
Mashbill – 100% Rice Age – at least 4 years Proof – 120.4 Other – Barrel 194, Bottle 122 Price Paid – $31.67 (average of total auction price for all three at $95; MSRP $59.99)
Color – Medium to Dark Amber; nice legs/viscosity.
Aroma – Maple syrup, vanilla, nutmeg, dark cherry, and warm butter.
Tasted Neat – Caramel, molasses, vanilla cream, dark cherry, nutmeg, white pepper, and oak.
Finish – A lovely finish with notes of sweetness from the cherry, warm nutmeg and a hint of cinnamon, oak with leather and tobacco. It really takes a flavor and sensation journey and lingers in a most pleasant manner.
Tasted with dried cranberry – This brought wood and lemon zest to the forefront. There is also a sour candy note and a shorter finish that is warm but not distinct in any way.
Tasted with a pecan – Spices, oak, leather, and pecan. No sweetness. Limited finish.
Discussion and Final Notes
Small Batch – The contrasting sweet and savory was a journey on the palate. It drinks very smoothly and enjoyably. It would likely pair well with some light fruits and berries or a lovely sorbet.
Single Barrel – This is a great single barrel. It had some memorable notes to it. It starts out with an amazing nose that leads to an almost bourbon-like palate and then finishes very well. It would be challenging to say this was a rice whiskey in a blind tasting as most people would assume it is a bourbon. The complexity of this might pair well with a charcuterie board of meats and hard cheeses.
The small batch is very light and summery with the taste of raspberries; whereas, the single barrel, with its dark cherry notes, comes through more like we’re ready for fall. Happy to have won this auction so we could taste and enjoy the uniqueness of these Louisiana American Rice Whiskeys.
Cheers, Rebecca & Wayne
Photos by Rebecca Herman McBrayer
Whiskey Requirements
Whiskey (generic) must be made from cereal grains, distilled below 190 proof, placed into an oak container, and bottled at a minimum of 80 proof.
There doesn’t seem to be an official category for American Rice Whiskey at this time. However, I will keep an eye out for developments in this category.
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.
It is hard to believe that last week at this time Wayne and I were attending the Bourbon Women SIPosium in Louisville. One of the events of the weekend was an ongoing auction. Thrilled that, together, we won four auctions. This tasting from a basket that was won.
PeacockLeiper’s Fork Distillery Single Barrel Cask Strength Bourbon Whiskey: 100% Local: Mashed, Fermented, Distilled, Aged and Bottled by Leiper’s Fork Distillery. It is made with local non-GMO Grains (Corn Grown on their Chief Distiller’s Farm), with the use of Toasted Barley Malt for Deeper Complexity. Also, it is Non-Chill Filtered for a Robust Profile and Mouthfeel, Pot Distilled for a Pre-Prohibition Style that is Full Bodied, has a Low Distillation Proof of 137* for Depth of Flavor, Low Barrel Entry Proof at 110* for a rounded Palette and is a Limited Release.
Single Barrel High N’ Wicked Rye Whiskey Women Peacock Preferred Pick: This 4-year-old rye is 114.4 proof and has a mash bill of 95% rye and 5% malted rye. 5 Year Aged Sour Mash Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey, Distilled by New Riff Distilling. All Aging in seasoned medium toast new #4 char American white oak barrels. Non Chill Filtered. No additives.
Please be sure to read our approach to Tasting Whiskey if you haven’t already.
Peacock Leiper’s Fork Distillery Single Barrel Cask Strength Bourbon Whiskey
Mashbill – 70% Corn, 15% Wheat & 15% Toasted Barley Malt Age – 5 years Proof – 109.6 (cask strength) Other – Non-Chill Filtered for a Robust Profile and Mouthfeel, Pot Distilled for a Pre-Prohibition Style that is Full Bodied, has a Low Distillation Proof of 137* for Depth of Flavor, Low Barrel Entry Proof at 110* for a rounded Palette and is a Limited Release. Specifics – Barrel 452; Bottle 149 of 201
Price Paid – $105 (average of total auction price of $210; MSRP $85)
Color – Medium Amber
Aroma – Very inviting with caramel, vanilla, toffee, a light butterscotch with a hint of smokiness and cherry.
Tasted Neat – Similar to the nose with note of butterscotch, caramel, baking spices, cinnamon, and a hint of dark cherry.
Finish – Pleasant and lasting with baking spices, cinnamon, and notes of wood that linger in a great way.
Tasted with dried cranberry – This muted most of the great flavors and eliminated the sweetness. The baking spices remained and there is an addition of black pepper on the finish.
Tasted with a pecan – Very nice as the butterscotch returned with the addition of a very nice dark chocolate. The finish has more wood and oak flavor that previously.
Tasted with dark chocolate – The chocolate really increased the spice notes but not in a bad way. It also added a creaminess that was pleasant.
High N’ Wicked Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey Single Barrel
Mashbill – 95% Rye, 5% Malted Rye Age – 4 years Proof – 114.4 Other – Bourbon Women Peacock Preferred Pick Price Paid – $105 (average of total auction price of $210; MSRP $80)
Color – Amber hue
Aroma – Rye grass, brown sugar, pears, and mint tea.
Tasted Neat – Rye grass spices and cinnamon greet you with the first sip. Great mouth feel and there is a sweetness of pears and then a hint of oak and a slight smokiness.
Finish – The finish is very similar in that it begins spicy then leads into the pear and a bit of caramel and finally with a slight coolness of mint coupled by a sweet but smoky oakiness. Great finish.
Tasted with dried cranberry – Surprising as it created a rather sour note and the spices and rye grass way back. Not unpleasant but not great either.
Tasted with a pecan – As sometimes happens, the pecan amplified the spices and brought a lot of black pepper forward. The finish was very short as well.
Tasted with dark chocolate – Not very flavorful with the dark chocolate. It was creamy and with black pepper on the finish.
Discussion and Final Notes
Leiper’s Fork is undeniably exceptional. The outstanding taste and aroma make it a bottle worth savoring. The enticing nose draws you in, making you want to savor every drop. It’s truly a remarkable single barrel and its fantastic qualities leave a lasting impression. Once again, Leiper’s Fork has left us thoroughly impressed.
We were not familiar with High n’ Wicked at first, but after trying it, we were impressed by its quality. This rye whiskey truly stands out for its solid and enjoyable character. In fact, its high rye mashbill adds a unique touch and flavor profile. With its rich and diverse flavors, it offers an elegant and enjoyable rye experience that is sure to leave a lasting impression on anyone who appreciates a fine whiskey.
Happy to have won this auction so we could taste and enjoy each special bottle.
Cheers, Rebecca & Wayne
Photos by Rebecca Herman McBrayer
Straight Bourbon & Rye Whiskey Requirements
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). For additional information on bourbon requirements, please read this post – Bourbon Whiskey.
Rye Whiskey Basic Requirements – Rye whiskey must be made from at least 51% rye. 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. Straight rye whiskey is a subcategory of rye whiskey that has been aged for at least two years in new, charred oak barrels and doesn’t contain any additives. If aged less than four years, the label must include an age statement. For additional information on bourbon requirements, please read this post – Rye 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.
It is hard to believe that this time last week Wayne and I had just returned from our amazing Louisville, Chocolate, and Bourbon – Oh My! weekend. Our typical trips to Louisville are event-driven. It might be a dinner, a specific distillery experience, or even a bottle release. Last weekend was different. The trip was focused on seeing a long-time friend who would be there for the weekend. It was about friendship, sharing our passion for bourbon, exploring new things, and reconnecting with great friends from afar as well as in the local area. While not on a “bottle hunt” we are always open when a situation presents itself.
The Michter’s Shenk’s and Bomberger’s are typically very challenging to acquire as so few are made each year. While in Louisville, we wanted to share The Bar at Michter’s with our friends. We walked into Michter’s at 4:30 PM on Friday afternoon and I noticed the combination package sitting on the counter. I inquired if they were for sale and the person said, yes, and they are the last ones we have today. Well, there you go. You just never know and it certainly doesn’t hurt to ask!
Shenk’s Homestead Sour Mash Whiskey is a limited edition release celebrating Kentucky’s whiskey-making heritage and part of Michter’s Legacy Series. Founded by John Shenk in 1753, the distillery became known as Michter’s in the 20th Century. This small-batch, full-bodied whiskey is made using traditional sour mash methods in Kentucky, with a significant amount of rye and aged in toasted French oak barrels from the Vosges region, imparting a unique finish and rich mouthfeel.
Bomberger’s Declaration Distillery Bourbon pays tribute to the former Bomberger’s distillery from the 1800s and later as Michter’s in the 20th Century. This 2023 release is a small batch 108 proof Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, continuing the tradition of offering a bold and beautiful 108 proof Kentucky Straight Bourbon. It features a rich and complex flavor due to aging a portion of the bourbon in Chinquapin oak. The oak was seasoned for three years, toasted, and charred to exact specifications. Malted rye was also used in the production of this bourbon.
Wayne and I were excited to taste these side-by-side. Please be sure to read our approach to Tasting Whiskey if you haven’t already.
Shenk’s Homestead Kentucky Sour Mash Whiskey by Michter’s
Mashbill – Undisclosed but with “significant” rye. Age – NAS (at least 4 years) Other – 2023 Release; Batch 23D1490; Bottle 911 of 2836 Proof – 91.2 Price Paid – $119 (plus tax)
Appearance – Dark amber.
Aroma – Toffee, vanilla, light butterscotch, spices, a hint of smoke.
Tasted Neat – Very smooth and creamy and different from what was experienced on the nose as it is less sweet and more savory. There is a coffee note with dark chocolate and burnt caramel. The wood from the barrel is present as is a smooth spiciness and a hint of honey.
Finish – Like the palate, the finish is smooth and savory with black pepper and baking chocolate.
Tasted with dried cranberry – The cranberry brightened the otherwise deep, dark notes of Shenk’s. There is additional spice and some zesty notes that were very refreshing, although a completely different experience.
Tasted with a pecan – As often happens, the pecan brought forward even more wood and dark notes. The chocolate is dark and inviting with a nice white pepper and oak finish.
Tasted with dark chocolate – This option brought the coffee forward with chocolate, caramel, and black pepper. It is incredibly creamy and with a nice finish as well.
Bomberger’s Declaration Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey by Michter’s
Mashbill – Undisclosed but some malted rye was used Age – NAS (at least 4 years) Other – 2023 Release; Batch #23E1948; Bottle 427 of 2386 Proof – 108 Price Paid – $129 (plus tax)
Appearance – Rich mahogany
Aroma – A lot of wood influence with vanilla cream, burnt caramel, honeysuckle, stewed cherries, baking spices, and a hint of nuttiness.
Tasted Neat – First, there is a terrific mouthfeel that is creamy and truly coats the palate. Sweet notes of butterscotch, toffee, molasses, and cherries greet the palate. Cardamon, dark chocolate, graham crackers, and a hint of mint are welcoming mid-palate. As it reaches the back of the palate, the cinnamon, nutmeg, black pepper, and tobacco join the journey.
Finish – Medium to long finish with warm backing spices, coffee, oak, mint, and barrel char.
Tasted with dried cranberry – The cranberry really changed it to a tartness of lemon zest with a finish of white pepper.
Tasted with a pecan – Again, the pecan brought the wood forward and a strong cinnamon finish.
Tasted with dark chocolate – This was tasty and very creamy with coffee and chocolate followed by cinnamon and white pepper on the finish.
Discussion and Final Notes
This is somewhat difficult to select which we enjoyed the most as each has something special to offer.
The Shenk’s Homestead 2023 Release boasts a dark amber color and offers a delightful tasting experience. Aromas of toffee, vanilla, light butterscotch, and a hint of smoke lead to a smooth and creamy texture with rich notes of coffee, dark chocolate, burnt caramel, and a velvety spiciness. The finish is smooth and savory, with hints of black pepper and baking chocolate.
The Bomberger’s Declaration 2023 Release has a mahogany color and offers a rich tasting experience with aromas of wood, vanilla cream, burnt caramel, honeysuckle, cherries, baking spices, and a subtle nuttiness. The palate is coated with creamy sweetness and welcomes notes of butterscotch, toffee, molasses, and cherries, as well as hints of cardamom, dark chocolate, graham crackers, and mint. The finish is marked by warm baking spices, coffee, oak, mint, and barrel char.
As always, it all comes down to your personal taste preferences and what resonates with you on any given day. When it comes to Shenk’s and Bomberger’s, the experience is truly remarkable. However, the depth and consistency of Bomberger’s simply resonates with us on a whole other level. From the captivating nose to the lingering finish, every sip is a journey. Being bourbon enthusiasts, Bomberger’s exquisitely crafted flavors nudge it ahead in our book. That being said, we wholeheartedly recommend trying both, and eagerly anticipate the opportunity to savor future releases.
Sour mash is a process in distillation that involves using material from an older batch to start fermenting a new batch of mash. It is very similar to the process of making sourdough bread with a starter. Using sour mash has the benefit of consistency between batches. It also reduces the possibility of unwanted bacterial growth. For additional information on bourbon requirements, please read this post – Four Stages of Making Spirits.
Bourbon Whiskey: 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 on bourbon requirements, please read this post – Bourbon 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.
With Louisville, KY being only a 90 minute drive for us, Wayne and I are fortunate to enjoy what the city has to offer on a pretty regular basis. Since completing the Kentucky Bourbon Trail, most of our more recent trips to Louisville have been related to a bourbon-related event. We then surround the event schedule with places that we really enjoy in Louisville.
This past weekend’s trip had a different driving force. A long-time friend from San Diego would be in Louisville for the Court Reporter’s Conference. We learned she had Friday late afternoon and evening free and that set the wheels into motion to plan something fun. The conference was held at the Galt House and that provided us with an incentive to stay there for the first time as well.
One plan led to another and it turned into a most enjoyable weekend of exploring all things Louisville – especially since it was bourbon-related!
The Galt House Hotel was originally opened in 1835 and is Louisville’s only water-facing hotel. We enjoyed our stay there and found the hotel to be extremely central and in walking distance to many things we wished to do.
FRIDAY – AUGUST 2ND
Whiskey Row Bourbon and Chocolate Walking Tour
Prior to the trip, we learned that our friend Heidi and her colleague Bridget had never had bourbon. They had mostly enjoyed wine and lighter spirits. We knew that we needed to provide a proper introduction to our native spirt and Louisville has many options. After some research, we were thrilled that the Whiskey Row Walking Tour – Bourbon and Chocolate Tour – was available late afternoon on Friday. This seemed to be the perfect way to introduce our friends to bourbon … with a bit of history and a dose of amazing chocolate!
Drew, our Whiskey Row tour guide, was amazing and he was able to share so many stories about Louisville that we had previously not hear. Drew is a native and lifelong Louisvillian. For 15 years, he has happily guided tourists, travelers, and native Louisvillians to famous Bourbon distilleries, Thoroughbred horse farms, and historic city sites. As a Professional Tour Guide, he takes pride in offering tours that are not only fun and entertaining, but also informative and historically accurate. Prior to becoming a guide, Drew dedicated 22 years to the City of Louisville’s Economic Development Department, playing a direct role in impactful development projects that significantly contributed to the growth and transformation of Louisville.
At Art Eatables®, the founders chose to create something new… the Small-batch Bourbon Truffle™, showcasing a unique approach to combining confection and bourbon. The founder, Kelly Ramsey, is the world’s first bourbon-certified chocolatier, and the company’s focus on accentuating the character of each bourbon through carefully selected chocolates sets their truffles apart. Even non-bourbon enthusiasts have found enjoyment in these truffles, as they provide a delightful blend of rich Belgian-style chocolates and the elegant flavors of Kentucky’s beloved bourbons.
Tasting flight of bourbon truffles and bourbons.
Our flight included Maker’s Mark, Angel’s Envy, and Michter’s Bourbon. Each piece of chocolate heaven was truly had the essence of each bourbon melded in the most amazing way within the fine truffle. It was mind-blowing, intriguing, and fabulously delicious all at the same time.
Maker’s Mark, Angel’s Envy, and Michter’sCarolyn was a fantastic host
Our second stop was at Buzzard’s RoostDistillery. Opened in April 2023, it is a fantastic addition to the bourbon distillery scene on Whiskey Row and we have enjoyed it on numerous occasions. We were fortunate to have Jeff Holmes lead us on this part of the experience in their very new Speak Easy room. We had the opportunity to savor two exquisite whiskey tastings, expertly paired with two of their exclusive chocolates crafted by Art Eatables using the same whiskey as the tasting. Among the selection are the remarkable Double Gold winning Char #1 Rye Whiskey and the exceptional Platinum winning Char #1 Bourbon, both victors at the 2023 San Francisco World Spirits Competition.
Jeff HolmesChar #1 Bourbon & RyeSome Speak Easy Decorations
The last stop on the tour was a local Louisville gem with a fascinating history, the Bristol Bar and Grille. Affectionately known as “The Bristol” by locals, it was established in 1977 and continues to be owned by its founder, Doug Gossmann. Gathered around a table, we all had the opportunity to engage in lively conversation and share what we loved about the tour. The highlight was the delightful pairing of Old Forester Bourbon with the iconic Kentucky Derby-Pie®. We also delved into the captivating history behind the bourbon and pie, discovering why both have become integral to the tradition of the Kentucky Derby®.
Bristol Bar & GrilleOld Forester Bourbon & Kentucky Derby Pie
The Whiskey Row Bourbon and Chocolate Walking Tour completely surpassed our expectations! The pairings and hospitality at Art Eatables, Buzzard’s Roost, and Bristol Bar and Grille were absolutely exceptional. At every turn, Drew embodied the perfect guide, sharing his extensive knowledge and passion for Louisville with us. We cannot recommend this tour highly enough! Just a heads up: it’s currently seasonal and available from March through October.
Time to Explore
Just because the tour ended didn’t mean we had concluded our Louisville adventure. We still had a couple more places that we wanted to share with friends.
Located on the second floor of Michter’s Fort Nelson Distillery, The Bar at Fort Nelson boasts classic cocktails carefully curated by cocktail historian and author David Wondrich, along with innovative creations by the talented bar team. Our frequent visits to this bar in Louisville are always a delight, as the atmosphere, service, and cocktails never fail to impress. On this particular visit, I was excited to recommend the Falls of the Ohio Fizz cocktail, which comes with an unexpected and delightful twist – laser printing on the top! The drink itself features Michter’s US*1 Kentucky Straight Rye, Orange Curacao, Lemon, Sugar, Egg White, and Soda. I had a good feeling that the flavor profile would be just right for Bridget and Heidi, and the “surprise” element would be a hit. Needless to say, they absolutely loved it!
Bridget and Heidi enjoying their cocktails
As a bonus, Andrea Wilson, Michter’s Master of Maturation as well as its Chief Operating Officer, was there and I was able to have a brief conversation with her. I look forward to seeing her at SIPosium in a couple of weeks. PLUS, from the second floor bar, you can see down into the distillation room. Heidi and Bridget were able to see the fermentation tanks and pot stills, which they found fascinating. It was a great stop for our day!
We always stop in this location because we love their spirits and they often have “distillery only” options to purchase. You can also taste a flight of their bourbon or have an amazing cocktail. Wayne and I decided on neat pours and I recommended cocktails to our friends based on their flavor profiles. Everyone was pleased with their selections and it was another opportunity to visit and enjoy one another’s company.
Heidi’s – What’s Up Doc? (Yes, that is on FIRE!)Bridget’s – Derby Rose with Pearls
After so many fantastic bourbon stops, it was definitely time for dinner! We headed back to the Bristol Bar & Grille for great food, more conversation, and a lot of laughs. We shared stories of our adventures and savored every moment of togetherness. After our satisfying meal, we strolled back to our hotel. As we bid each other goodnight, the day’s memories filled in our minds, fueled by the joy of cherished friendships, delectable chocolates, exquisite bourbon, and the delights of a remarkable culinary journey.
SATURDAY, AUGUST 3RD
We had a leisurely morning and then decided to walk to a nearby restaurant that we have often noticed but never stopped in to check it out. Bluegrass Brewing Company located at 3rd & Main. Wayne decided to have an Extra Spicy Bloody Mary and I enjoyed a pour of Bourbon Barrel Stout. We opted to share the Bluegrass Burger – an Angus Burger with Pimento Cheese Ranch, Haystack Onions, Fried Green Tomato and Cheddar Cheese. It was served with house-made chips. It was terrific and we recommend it as a great choice.
We headed back to our hotel room to relax until it was time to drive to Michael Veach’s home for “drinks on the porch” at 1PM. This would be our second opportunity to taste with them and we were quite excited. If you aren’t familiar with Michael Veach, we encourage you to get to know him at the YouTube channel and website – bourbonveachdotcom. He is a bourbon enthusiast, writer, and historian who was inducted into the Kentucky Bourbon Hall of Fame in 2006.
Tasting with Mike & Matt– Porch Session #1
When we arrived, Mike already had the porch and the tasting set up and ready to go. However, much to our surprise, we learned that it would be recorded for an episode of “Mike & Matt Taste” for their YouTube Channel – BourbonVeach. It would be the start of what they will call, ThePorch Sessions. Wow – what an honor!
Before we got down to the business of tasting, we had the opportunity to meet Matt’s girlfriend, Rebecca, who is the one behind the camera and video editing. In addition, Mike’s fiancé, Rosemary, was home for a short while prior to the start of the filming. It was wonderful to get to know Rebecca and catch up with Rosemary.
Old Crow for our first tasting.Wayne, Matt, and Mike
We weren’t exactly sure how the quality of the recording would turn out as there was car detailing at a neighbors and an occasional helicopter flying over. We just learned to roll with it and embrace it as the real outdoors that we were experiencing. As you can see in the photo above, we were very excited to taste a dusty bottle – 1974 Old Crow Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey! Please view the video below for the tasting notes as well as fun porch conversation!
We were both surprised and honored to be a part of the “Mike & Matt Taste” for our Porch Session visit.
At the conclusion of the tastings (we also tasted a bottle that we brought to share – Starlight Distillery‘s Bourbon Finished in Peach Brandy Barrel – we wrapped up the video as Matt and Rebecca needed to depart. However, we stayed to chat and smoke a couple cigars with Mike. We inquired about their favorite restaurants in the area. Mike highly recommended Volare Italian Ristorante and Bourbons Bistro. Both sounded amazing and we quickly checked Open Table and were able to get a 6PM reservation at Bourbons Bistro. We hated to depart but know we will visit again. The experience was a great gift and as a momento, we were also invited to take the unfinished Old Crow home with us. Thank you, Mike, for an amazing afternoon of great pours, conversation, and friendship.
Wayne, Mike, and Rebecca
Dinner at Bourbons Bistro
It was terrific that Bourbons Bistro was about a mile away as we were ready for dinner. I didn’t take any location photos as I didn’t want to disturb other diners. However, this page on their website has a fantastic set of photos.
Garlic and Goat Cheese SpreadBourbons Chop
We each decided to enjoy a neat pour of Buzzard’s Roost Char #1 Bourbon while sharing Mike’s recommended appetizer: Garlic and Goat Cheese Spread – roasted garlic, bleu cheese, goat cheese, cream cheese, sweet red and green peppers, baby spinach, French bread. Each were devine! For our dinner choices, Wayne started with the Wedge Salad and we each ordered the Bourbons Chop – 12 oz. Frenched bone-in pork chop wrapped in proscuitto topped with Asadero cheese and a bourbon veal demi glace, Yukon mashed potatoes, garlic haricot verts. Every bite was amazing and the staff was attentive and very helpful – we were so happy to enjoy this restaurant.
Background on Bourbons Bistro and its Owner: Jason Brauner is the owner of Bourbons Bistro in Louisville, Kentucky, which he opened in 2005 with the intention of creating a place that celebrated the state and people of Kentucky through its focus on bourbon. Over the years, Jason not only educated himself about bourbon but also innovated within the industry, introducing concepts such as bourbon flights, barrel picks, and bourbon experiences. Since opening Bourbon’s Bistro in 2005, Jason has established an active single barrel program, working closely with Kentucky’s master distillers to gain knowledge and respect. In 2019, Judy Hollis Jones and Jason Brauner met during a barrel pick and decided to create Buzzard’s Roost Sipping Whiskey, aiming for exceptional and unique quality. Jason oversees production to ensure each batch exceeds the expectations of discerning whiskey drinkers.
We look forward to meeting Jason at the Owensboro Bourbon Society‘s August meeting!
SUNDAY, AUGUST 4TH
Before departing for home, we wanted to make one final stop at our favorite breakfast place in downtown Louisville – Doc Crow’s on Main Street. Over time, we have tried many of their breakfast options but have each settled on our favorites. For me, it is the Spinach & Feta Omelette while Wayne loves a combo of Buttermilk Biscuits N’ Gravy and a Build Your Own Omelette. As always, the food and service were top notch. We highly recommend Doc Crow’s when in Louisville!
Doc Crow’s Breakfast MenuRebecca: Spinach & Feta OmeletteWayne: Build Your Own OmeletteWayne: Buttermilk Biscuits N’ Gravy
That’s a Wrap!
It’s impossible to identify just one “favorite” moment from our weekend in Louisville as each was absolutely unforgettable. Our time was jam-packed with all things bourbon, from a fascinating walking tour that introduced our friends into the world of bourbon through exquisite pairings of chocolate and bourbon, to exploring tasting rooms at different distilleries. The weekend also featured an exclusive bourbon tasting porch session with bourbon expert Michael Veach, dining at exceptional restaurants, and a visit to our go-to breakfast spot before heading home. This truly added an extraordinary chapter to Our Bourbon Journey, and we hope it inspires some noteworthy stops on Your Bourbon Journey as well!
As you might have gleaned through other articles, Wayne and I thoroughly enjoy Green River – their spirits, distillery, and most importantly, their people. Therefore, when we learned of their dinner pairing event with Farmer & Frenchman (a place we have wanted to visit), we immediately got tickets for the August 1st event.
We arrived in Robards, KY and were immediately taken by the beauty of the surroundings. There were lovely buildings, little cabins, grape vines, and green for miles.
We had to get a few pictures before the event began!
When we checked in, we were escorted to a private table. In itself, this was different as we are accustomed to such events being at shared tables.
The dining was somewhat divided – the more formal area with chandeliers and white tablecloths and the enclosed patio section where we were seated.
Four Pours of Green River
Our cocktail and three neat pours of Green River.
Four Course Meal
The first two courses were seafood based and that meant that Wayne got double helpings. He enjoyed each offering but felt the Creole Caponata was his favorite of the two.
Description – Creole Caponata: Crawfish, sweet and sour peppers, roasted eggplant, and creole spices on toast.Served with Gold Rush Cocktail with Green River Wheated Bourbon.
Creole CaponataFried Scallops
Description – Fried Scallops: Deep fried scallop pieces, grilled polenta, and green tomato chutney. Served with Green River Bourbon 90 proof.
The Waygu Lasagna was mind blowing. Your palate is expecting a traditional lasagna but this was so rich and with amazing depth.
Description – Wagyu Lasagna: Smoked and braised wagyu beef shank ragu, tomato and red wine sauce, bechamel, and smoked mozzarella. Served with Green River Rye.
Wagyu LasagnaCherry Covered Chocolate
The dessert might have been my favorite bite of the evening. Such an explosion of flavors that worked amazingly well together. Wow!
Description – Cherry Covered Chocolate: Triple chocolate marscapone cheesecake with a warm cherry gastrique. Served with Green River Full Proof Bourbon 117 Proof.
The evening was wrapping up and it was time to say our goodbyes. It was well worth the drive and it has also encouraged us to return to the Farmer & Frenchman for a longer stay.
But before leaving, we had to get a picture with friends – Caryn, Renee, and Aaron!!!
In 2023, we splurged and booked a two-day Mint Julep VIP Tour that included amazing experiences at the six participating Bardstown Bourbon Collection distilleries. We were able to acquire two of each expression for the 2023 collection. We were not able to do that for 2024 and really didn’t expect to purchase any of the seven 2024 collection. However, we were thrilled when we walked into the Bardstown Bourbon Co’s Louisville Tasting room and saw it available!
There isn’t a lot written about this specific releasee. Some of the particulars, such the age and mashbill of the barrels selected for blending, I was able to glean while listening to a couple brief interviews with Steve Nally, their Master Distiller.
Please be sure to read our approach to Tasting Whiskey if you haven’t already.
Mashbill – Blend of two sourced bourbons: (1) 72% of a 9-10 year old that is 75% corn, 13% rye, and 12% Malted Barley; (2) 28% of a 14 year old that is 78% Corn, 13% Rye, and 9% Malted Barley.
Age – Blend (see above), at least 9 years old.
Finish – Each aged individually for an additional 3.5 months in new toasted oak barrels prior to blending.
Other – Bottle #73
Proof – 119.4
Price Paid – $199.99 (plus tax)
Color – Dark amber and with terrific legs on the glass.
Aroma – The nose is very inviting. There is a pleasant sweetness of rich caramel, vanilla cream, honey, and a hint of cotton candy. Then the barrel characteristics appear with oak, grain, and a light smoke.
Tasted Neat – There is a lot going on with this bourbon. Coffee flavor awakens your senses. Next is the sweetness of caramel, dark fruit, with honey. There is also roasted peanuts and thoughts of cinnamon toast followed by oak and leather. Wow! Really terrific.
Finish – The finish is long with cinnamon, honey, caramel, a slight oak, and nuttiness along with leather and white pepper. The finish persists in an amazingly pleasant way.
Tasted with dried cranberry – Wayne and I differed on our experience with the dried cranberry. He felt the spice really picked up while I felt it smoothed a bit and the leather was present. We agreed that it was less sweet, the coffee notes faded, and the finish was quite shortened.
Tasted with a pecan – The coffee notes returned and it also had dark chocolate, cinnamon, and wood flavors. The finish was medium in length, not as pronounced as when drinking it neat.
Tasted with dark chocolate – A lot of woodiness with white pepper on the palate. The finish is somewhat muted but still present.
Tasted with a few drops of water – Steve Nally mentioned in a video that he suggests drinking this on ice. We decided to add a few drops of water to see if there was a notable shift. The water opened up the nose and the aromas were quite pronounced; however, the flavors were not as prominent as when we originally tasted it neat. Not bad, but we definitely preferred it neat overall.
Discussion and Final Notes
We thoroughly enjoyed this pour! It is a sensational journey on the nose and palate. In summary, the nose provides irresistible allure, offering a delightful blend of rich caramel, vanilla cream, honey, and a hint of cotton candy. Soon, the bold character of the barrel emerges, bringing notes of oak, grain, and a delicate hint of smoke. This bourbon presents a complexity that tantalizes the senses. A rush of coffee flavor invigorates the palate, followed by a symphony of caramel sweetness, dark fruit, and honey. Roasted peanuts and the memory of cinnamon toast dance gracefully before yielding to the embrace of oak and leather. Remarkable! The finish lingers endlessly, weaving together cinnamon, honey, caramel, subtle oak, and a touch of nuttiness, while hints of leather and white pepper add depth. The finish leaves a lasting impression of sheer pleasure.
As is evident from our summary, we are thrilled to have this bottle and a “back-up” bottle. If you are fortunate to locate this 2024 Bardstown Collection by Bardstown Bourbon Co, we highly recommend that you make the investment. We will enjoy this for years to come.
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 on bourbon requirements, please read this post – Bourbon Whiskey.
NOTE: The bourbon in this review was 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.
Last weekend, Wayne and I each selected a bottle not-yet-opened that we wanted to taste. Wayne selected the Evan Williams 23 Year Old Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey. I was very pleased with his choice! We originally tasted this offering on National Bourbon Day, June 14th, and had the opportunity to purchase it at the Evan Williams “A Toast to Bourbon” dinner.
Please be sure to read our approach to Tasting Whiskey if you haven’t already.
Evan Williams 23 Year Old Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
Color – Dark copper with very nice legs on the glass.
Aroma – Deep and dark come to mind first, including dark chocolate. Spice and honey blend in an inviting way. It is evident this is an older bourbon based on the aged oak notes. But then the sweetness surprises you with vanilla, marshmallow, and crème brûlée. Allspice, nutmeg, and leather add another dimension. What a nose!
Tasted Neat – Similar to the nose, the tannins from the wood come forward to start, but the sweetness will not be denied. There is vanilla cream, sweet corn, rich cherry, and a lovely honey. Next, rich notes of dark chocolate, toasted nuts, and marshmallow are present. Finally, warm leather, nutmeg, allspice, and cinnamon let you know this bourbon has some great barrel influence.
Finish – There is a medium length finish. The finish includes sweet notes such as toffee, the richness of dark chocolate, some dryness from the tannins including oak, licorice, tobacco, and orange peels, plus a bit of black pepper.
Tasted with dried cranberry – The sweetness of the dried cranberry created a strong oak presence with leather and the finish was greatly reduced.
Tasted with a pecan – This brought the dark chocolate front and center with a hint of cinnamon and tobacco. Again, the finish is very short.
Tasted with dark chocolate – The chocolate actually removed the dark chocolate notes and replaced it with mostly a light cinnamon without a lot of taste and virtually no finish.
Discussion and Final Notes
We definitely preferred drinking this neat. The pecan wasn’t bad and this might be good with a steak or perhaps a nice cigar. But when having a bourbon of this maturity, we will savor and enjoy it neat and on its own.
Obviously, this is an expensive bottle of bourbon. There are not a lot of bourbons offered at 23 years and even fewer that have such an inviting nose, amazing journey on the palate, and a great finish. Given the price of some 20+ year bourbons, we find this to be of good value. While this would not be an “every-day-drinker,” we are thrilled to have it and will enjoy it whenever we feel the desire to dive into some extra age and complexity. With the warm notes from the barrel, we plan to enjoy this once the weather gets cooler. It could be that perfect pour to sink into on a cold night.
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 on bourbon requirements, please read this post – Bourbon Whiskey.
NOTE: The bourbon in this review was 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.
Wayne and I have seen a few people mention Middle West Spirits out of Columbus, Ohio and have heard very good things about what they are producing. The notion of a rye whiskey made with dark pumpernickel rye was very intriguing and when we had an opportunity to get a bottle online, we did.
Please be sure to read our approach to Tasting Whiskey if you haven’t already.
Middle West Spirits Dark Pumpernickel – Straight Rye Whiskey
Mashbill – Dark pumpernickel rye, Ohio soft red winter wheat, Yellow Corn, 2-row barley (specifics unknown) Age – Minimum of 4 Years (per website) Proof – 96 Price Paid – $54.99 (including tax)
Appearance – Amber with nice legs.
Aroma – Rye grass, honeysuckle, cinnamon, slight vanilla, and black licorice.
Tasted Neat – Good mouthfeel. Rye grass, cardamom, light cinnamon, honey, white pepper, black licorice, ginger, a hint of dark fruit maybe fig.
Finish – Medium finish with white pepper, cinnamon, rye spices, a hints of mint, oak, and black licorice.
Tasted with dried cranberry – Very fruity/fig with a lot of rye but less pepper.
Tasted with a pecan – Smokey and a lot of oak, a hint of leather and vanilla, and rye toast.
Tasted with dark chocolate – Dark chocolate with a hint of mint tea, and rye spices on the finish.
Discussion and Final Notes
This dark pumpernickel makes a very nice rye. However, we really had hoped to find more of the pumpernickel and its darkness to create a more distinct flavor profile. From that standpoint, it was somewhat disappointing, but a nice rye whiskey, nevertheless.
The Ohio soft red winter wheat component could be what is lightening the rye aspects of the pour. Hard to know for sure and this is just supposition. Also, we believe that additional time in the barrel could really enhance some of the “hint” notes we identified or perhaps a higher proof point, such as of 105 versus 96, might for the overall flavor profile. We would love to try this at cask strength! I noted on their website that both their cask strength and single barrel options have garnered awards.
This is a good bottle of rye, and we enjoyed our first experience with it. If it had been a blind tasting and we had no idea about the type of rye, that may have influenced our palates in a different way. We are happy that we have it. If we see future bottles that are somewhat older or cask strength, we will certainly want to see if it creates a different experience.
Cheers, Rebecca & Wayne
Photos by Rebecca Herman McBrayer
Straight Rye WhiskeySpirit Requirements
Rye Whiskey Basic Requirements – Rye whiskey must be made from at least 51% rye. 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. Straight rye whiskey is a subcategory of rye whiskey that has been aged for at least two years in new, charred oak barrels and doesn’t contain any additives. If aged less than four years, the label must include an age statement. For additional information on bourbon requirements, please read this post – Rye Whiskey.
NOTE: The whiskey in this review was 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.
Wayne and I have been wanting to open this bottle and finally found a moment to relax and enjoy a pour. “Crafted with Conviction” by Eddie Russell, this year’s limited release of Master’s Keep – Triumph – is a passion project at Wild Turkey. This release is a nod to Eddie’s son, Bruce, Associate Blender at Wild Turkey and someone with a passion for rye. At 10-years old, this is the oldest age-stated rye ever released by Wild Turkey.
Please be sure to read our approach to Tasting Whiskey if you haven’t already.
Mashbill – 51% Rye, 37% Corn, 12% Malted Barley Age – 10 Years Proof – 104 Price Paid – $275 (plus tax and shipping)
Appearance – Copper. Legs are somewhat slow to form but very substantive when appear.
Aroma – Initially, it is light and not very distinct. As it opens and the nose acclimates, a lot begins to happen. There is a sweetness often reminiscent of bourbon with vanilla and crème brûlée. Then the rye components of mint, allspice, and cloves drift into the aroma. Finally, there is a hint of light fruits such as apples and pears with a touch of nutmeg. It is quite a journey just on the nose!
Tasted Neat – Much like the nose, tasting requires several approaches to allow the flavor profile to touch each part of the mouth. It shifts and turns with each sip. The viscosity, as indicated by its legs, really provides a wonderful mouthfeel and the texture coats the palate very pleasantly. There is a lovely sweetness of honey, vanilla, and baked apples or pears. The flavors transition to deeper notes of dark chocolate, brown sugar, dates or possibly figs. The barrel notes come forward with oak and baking spices.
Finish – The finish is very long and lingering. Wood notes are dominate with oak and black pepper. However, there is also a light mint sensation to lighten up the otherwise darkness of the finish. It is certainly a journey!
Tasted with dried cranberry – At first sip, it became a spice bomb of red hot cinnamon. However, it calmed down to release a hint of citrus on the front and a brighter, but still a spicy finish.
Tasted with a pecan – This is interesting as it brought the wood notes very forward with dark chocolate and mint. Still a spicy finish but more along the line of ginger.
Tasted with dark chocolate – Wow, this became a chocolate desert drink, almost like Mexican Hot Chocolate with cinnamon.
Discussion and Final Notes
Perhaps it is the length of time in the barrel, the 37% corn, or the specific barrel selections, but this rye tends to waiver between a bourbon and a rye experience. As such, it would be a great pour for someone who hasn’t regularly enjoyed a rye whiskey.
That aside, this is an outstanding rye whiskey. With a 51% rye mashbill, the rye spices and rye grass notes don’t hit you upside they head; instead, they dance around and play with your nose and palate. As noted above, the journey it takes you on is an incredibly pleasant one and one that has a surprise around every turn.
Overall, I’m glad that we were able to get a bottle at MSRP directly from Wild Turkey. This is a wonderful addition to our Wild Turkey collection as well as our rye options.
Cheers, Rebecca & Wayne
Photos by Rebecca Herman McBrayer
Kentucky Straight Rye WhiskeySpirit Requirements
Rye Whiskey Basic Requirements – Rye whiskey must be made from at least 51% rye. 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. Straight rye whiskey is a subcategory of rye whiskey that has been aged for at least two years in new, charred oak barrels and doesn’t contain any additives. If aged less than four years, the label must include an age statement. In addition, to be Kentucky Straight Whiskey, it has the additional requirement that it must be produced and aged at least 1 year in the state of Kentucky. For additional information on bourbon requirements, please read this post – Rye Whiskey.
NOTE: The whiskey in this review was 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.
Your Bourbon Journey 