Uncork the Legend! 🥃 Dive deep with us into the Jack Daniel’s 12 Year Old Tennessee Whiskey 2025 Limited Release! From the first sip to the lingering finish, we’ll analyze every aspect. Is it worth the hunt? We’ll dissect the finish, evaluate the price, and give you our honest recommendation on whether this Jack Daniel’s 12 Year earns a spot on your shelf. Don’t miss this in-depth review!
ABOUT THIS BOTTLE
✴️ Jack Daniels 12 Year (Batch 3)
Classification: Tennessee Whiskey
Company: Brown-Forman
Distillery: Jack Daniels Distillery
Mash Bill: 80% Corn, 12% Malted Barley, 8% Rye
Age: 12 Years
Proof: 107
MSRP: $95.00
Released: February 2025
Other: 700 ml bottle
Purchased: 03/22/25 for $199.99 at High Spirits in Evansville Indiana
NOTE: The spirit in this review was purchased by us. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is simply our opinion based on what we tasted on this day. Please drink responsibly.
🤩 Ever wondered what a 61-year-old bourbon tastes like? In this special tasting, we’re exploring a time capsule of whiskey history: a vintage Barclay’s Bourbon Straight Whiskey, distilled by Hiram Walker & Sons in 1960. 🌟 We’ll take you on a journey through the fascinating story of Hiram Walker, a distillery that shaped the bourbon landscape. 🌟 Expect detailed tasting notes, historical insights, and an appreciation for the craftsmanship that went into this incredible bottle. 🌟 Join us as we experience a true taste of the past!
✴️ Barclay’s Bourbon
Classification: Straight Bourbon Whiskey
Company: Barclay’s Bourbon
Distillery: Hiram Walker & Sons Distillery, Peoria Illinois
Mash Bill: Unknown
Age: 4
Proof: 86
Released: 1964
Other: It was exported to the French markets.
Key Figures: C.S. Buroff was identified as the Master Blender at Hiram Walker from the post-Prohibition era into the 1960s.
NOTE: The spirit in this review was purchased by us. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is simply our opinion based on what we tasted on this day. Please drink responsibly.
❇️ In this bourbon review episode, we revisit our visit to Rabbit Hole Distillery, where we acquired the Dareinger Founders Collection 2023 and the Rabelo Cask Strength Distillery Series. We dive deep into the tasting of these two exceptional, Limited Edition, offerings from Rabbit Hole Distillery, thoroughly exploring and comparing their unique aromas, tastes, and finishes. With each sip, we uncover the intricate layers of flavor that define these spirits, taking note of the subtle nuances that distinguish one from the other. Every element tells a story of craftsmanship and dedication. Ultimately, this tasting journey not only heightens our senses but also deepens our understanding of the distillery’s commitment to quality and innovation. Without a doubt, we highly recommend adding Rabbit Hole Distillery in Louisville, Kentucky, to your bourbon journey-book a tour, take a step down the rabbit hole, and savor some outstanding bourbon!
ABOUT THESE BOTTLES
✴️ Rabelo Cask Strength Distillery Series 375mil
Classification: Straight Bourbon Whiskey
Company: Rabbit Hole Distillery
Distillery:
Mash Bill: 65% Corn, 25% Wheat, 10% Malted Barley
Age: 3+ Years; Aged in #3, wood-fired, toasted & charred new American Oak barrels
Finish: 4 Months in Ruby Port Cask
Proof: 100.8
Released: 2023
Purchased: 12/15/23 for $49.99 at Rabbit Hole, Louisville KY
✴️ Dareinger Founders Collection 2023
Classification: Straight Bourbon Whiskey
Company: Rabbit Hole Distillery
Distillery: Undisclosed
Mash Bill: 65% Corn, 25% Wheat, 10% Malted Barley
Age: 3 years initially
Then Finished:
Aged in Alligator-char oak barrels for five years
Finished and aged in Pedro Ximenez sherry casks for two years
Aged in 60-year-old American white oak barrels for an additional month
Proof: 102.1
Purchased: 12/15/23 for $295.00 at Rabbit Hole, Louisville KY
NOTE: The spirits in this review were purchased by us. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is simply our opinion based on what we tasted on this day. Please drink responsibly.
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.
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.
In this bourbon review episode, we highlight our recent visit to Old Louisville Whiskey Co, where we enjoyed an incredible barrel thieving experience with owner, Amine Kar. We delve into our exciting purchase from that visit – the 9 Year Old Cognac Finished Straight Whiskey. Join us as we explore this exceptional release, relishing its rich aromas, complex palate, and unforgettable finish. We wholeheartedly recommend adding Old Louisville Whiskey Co to your bourbon journey; make sure to book a tour the next time you’re headed to the Louisville, Kentucky area.
ABOUT THIS BOTTLE
Old Louisville Straight Whiskey Cognac Cask Finish
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.
Join us for an unforgettable tasting event, where we will explore a captivating chapter of whiskey history! Today’s exceptional selection is a Vintage Bourbon – an Old Fitzgerald Decanter, bottled in 1976 and likely distilled around 1970. We originally opened this American Sons of St. Patrick Decanter a year ago, eagerly anticipating another tasting. It is remarkable to immerse ourselves in a vintage Old Fitzgerald Wheated Bourbon that is at least 50 years old, potentially distilled at Stizel-Weller under the esteemed Van Winkle family’s guidance. This vintage bourbon invites you to savor its unique taste profile, evoking powerful memories and emotions that embody the spirit of bourbon. Together, let’s celebrate this extraordinary bottle while Sipping on History! 🥃
ABOUT THIS VINTAGE DECANTER
Old FitzgeraldAmerican Sons of St. Patrick Decanter
Classification: Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
Distillery: Stitzel-Weller
Mash Bill: 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 Fitzgerald Prime was typically a blend of 4–8-year-old-whiskey with mostly 6-year-old.
Proof: 86
Other: If this whiskey was bottled around 1976, and the dominate age was 6 years, it was likely distilled and barreled around 1970. The Master Distiller at that time was Roy Hawes (early 50s to 1971).
Note: In 1972, the company and all its brands were sold to Norton-Simon Inc. as part of Somerset Imports, as part of a forced sale by stockholders. The distillery name was changed to Old Fitzgerald Distillery. After this point there were no longer any Van Winkles at the helm of the company, making pre-1972 bottles somewhat more sought after. (per Whiskey ID, https://whiskeyid.com/stitzel-weller-timeline/)
Purchased: January 2024 at Revival Vintage Spirits, Covington, KY https://revivalky.com/
NOTE: The spirit in this review was purchased by us. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is simply our opinion based on what we tasted on this day. Please drink responsibly.
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.
In episode 9 of Thirsty Thursday Bourbon Cocktails, we present an exciting twist on the classic Irish Coffee that is destined to be your go-to coffee specialty – the Kentucky Coffee Cocktail! You’ll discover that the Kentucky Coffee boasts a vibrant aroma and delivers a smooth, flavorful experience, where the bold bitterness of black coffee is perfectly balanced by the sweet notes of vanilla and caramel from the Kentucky Bourbon. With a strong, freshly brewed coffee as its foundation, this cocktail packs a punch. The Kentucky Bourbon infuses a smooth, slightly spicy warmth that complements the coffee’s boldness brilliantly. Adding Tobacco Bitters enhances the earthy characteristics of the Bourbon, while a touch of caramel and Bourbon Cream introduces the ideal sweetness, perfectly balancing the coffee’s assertiveness with the bourbon’s warmth. Finally, a velvety layer of whipped cream crowns this drink, adding a delightful creamy texture. In this video, we will expertly guide you through the cocktail-making process with clear, step-by-step instructions, empowering you to craft this delightful coffee—ideal for sharing with friends or indulging solo.
RECIPE:
Caramel to drizzle into the coffee cup
1.5 oz. of Kentucky Bourbon
1 oz of bourbon cream
3-4 Dashes of Turkish Tobacco Bitters
4 oz of fresh brewed coffee
Garnish with whipped cream and freshly grated nutmeg
In this edition of tastings from our whiskey library, we proudly showcase three Irish Whiskeys to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day and our Five Year Wedding Anniversary. This tasting features two Irish Whiskeys we’ve enjoyed before – Ha’Penny and Red Breast 12 – along with a new addition that we’ve recently acquired – Red Breast 12 Cask Strength. We will kick things off with the Ha’Penny by Pearse Lyons Distillery. Next up are the outstanding Red Breast 12 Year offerings: one is the classic 80 proof, while the other boasts a robust cask strength at 114.4 proof-our first experience with this remarkable cask strength version. For each whiskey, we will meticulously examine the appearance, revel in the aromas, savor the taste profile, and comment on the finish. We’ve even discovered one that we’re affectionately dubbing a “Bourbon Drinker’s Irish Whiskey.” So, pour yourself a glass of Irish Whiskey, get comfortable, and sip along with us. Cheers!
ABOUT THESE BOTTLES
Ha’Penny Irish Whiskey
Classification: Irish Whiskey
Company: Lexington Brewing and Distilling Company
Distillery: Pearse Lyons Distillery in Dublin, Ireland
Mash Bill: 62% Grain (A blend of Sherry Butt Grain and Double Charred Barrel Grain), 38% Malt (A blend of Port Pipe finished Malt and First fill Bourbon Barrel Malt).
Age: Non-age statement (NAS) blend of 4–10-year-old whiskies from four types of barrels… Bourbon, Port, Sherry and Double Charred.
Proof: 86
Purchased: 04/14/23 for $34.99 at Town Branch Distillery
Red Brest 12 Year Irish Whiskey
Classification: Irish Whiskey
Type: Pot Still Irish Whiskey; Denotes it was made from malted and un-malted barley and distilled only in a pot still.
Distillation: Triple Distilled
Company: Pernod Ricard
Distillery: Midleton Distillery
Mash Bill: 100% Malted and Unmalted Barley
Age: 12 Years
Proof: 80
Purchased: 03/11/23 for $73.99 at Beverage Barn, Henderson KY
Red Brest 12 Year Cask Strength Irish Whiskey
Classification: Irish Whiskey
Type: Pot Still Irish Whiskey; Denotes it was made from malted and un-malted barley and distilled only in a pot still.
Distillation: Triple Distilled
Company: Pernod Ricard
Distillery: Midleton Distillery
Mash Bill: 100% Malted and Unmalted Barley
Cask: Mixture of ex-bourbon barrels and ex-Oloroso Sherry Casks
Age: 12 Years
Proof: 114.4
Purchased: 03/08/25 for $$199.99 at High Spirits, Evansville IN
Irish whiskey is made from a high grain mash of barley, wheat, and corn. The exact quantities of each grain depend on the type of whiskey. The most common primary grain is barley. The barley and be malted, un-malted, or a combination of each. The Irish Whiskey Act of 1980 defines the basic requirements for Irish whiskey. The act protects Irish whiskey by statute law and provides regulations and labeling for the spirit. The requirements include: produced and aged in Ireland; made from cereal grains that are fermented with yeast; distilled no higher than 94.8% ABV (proof of 189.6); aged in wooden casks for a minimum of three years; free of added substances with the exception of water and caramel coloring; bottled at a minimum ABV of 40% (proof of 80). For more information, please read Irish Whiskey.
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.
In Episode 10 of Bourbon Trail Tales & Tastes, we recount our first visit to Old Forester Distillery in Louisville, Kentucky. Join us as we remember that day, Saturday, September 3, 2022, which marked our 14th distillery on Our Bourbon Journey and our 10th Stamp on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail. We share our insights into the experience available at Old Forester Distillery, how complete and detailed the tour is – truly soup to nuts, and why we often select it as a first distillery visit for our friends who are visiting. To fully immerse ourselves in those cherished memories, we taste from a bottle purchased on that very first visit, Old Forester Statesman, enabling us to relive the original experience 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 THE BOTTLE: Old Forester Statesman
The Statesman
Classification: Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
Company: Brown-Forman
Distillery: Old Forester Distilling Company
Mash Bill: 72% Corn, 18% Rye, 10% Malted Barley
Age: NAS (at least 4 years)
Proof: 95
MSRP: $55
Purchased: 09/03/22 for $56.99 at Old Forester, Louisville KY
NOTE: The spirits in this review were purchased by us. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is simply our opinion based on what we tasted on this day. Please drink responsibly.
In this bourbon review episode, we recount our recent visit to the Oxmoor Farm and Bourbon Company in Louisville, Kentucky. We highlight its historical significance, rooted in the 1700s, and the Bullitt family’s remarkable legacy of legal scholars who played a pivotal role in shaping many of the bourbon and whiskey laws we cherish today. Although bourbon was never produced on-site, Oxmoor served as a private stock brand designed for sharing.
We then delve into the tasting of two exceptional offerings from Oxmoor Bourbon – a Small Batch and a Single Barrel. Each is crafted by an undisclosed distillery in Kentucky; however, we know that one is bottled at Kentucky Artisan Distillery and the other at Neeley Family Distillery. We thoroughly enjoy and compare the unique aromas, tastes, and finishes of each offering.
Ultimately, we strongly recommend that you add Oxmoor Farm and Bourbon to your bourbon journey – book a tour, take a step back in time, and savor some outstanding bourbon!
ABOUT THESE BOTTLES
Oxmoor Small Batch Barrel Strength
Classification: Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
Company: Oxmoor Bourbon Company
Bottled: Kentucky Artisan Distillery, Crestwood KY
Mash Bill: Blend of Traditional & Wheated mash bills
Age: NAS (at least 4 years)
Proof: 119
MSRP: $65.00
Other: Vol. 3, First Edition, MMXXIV
Purchased: 02/21/25 for $65.00 at Oxmoor Farm, Louisville KY
Oxmoor Single Barrel
Classification: Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
Company: Oxmoor Bourbon Company
Bottled: Neeley Family Distillery, Sparta KY
Mash Bill: Undisclosed
Age: 8 years
Proof: 116.6
MSRP: $80.00
Released:
Other: Vol. 4, MMXXIV
Purchased: 02/21/25 for $80.00 at Oxmoor Farm, Louisville KY
NOTE: The spirits in this review were purchased by us. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is simply our opinion based on what we tasted on this day. Please drink responsibly.
Your Bourbon Journey 