Bourbon Hot Chocolate: The Cozy Cocktail You Didn’t Know You Needed

In episode 5 of Thirsty Thursday Cocktails, we’re crafting an alluring Hot Chocolate Bourbon Kiss Cocktail! While the rich, bold bourbon takes center stage, every sip is infused with a symphony of flavors that will awaken your senses and delight your palate. Decadent white chocolate liqueur, exquisitely barrel-aged maple syrup, and enchanting chocolate bitters create a captivating mélange that ignites your senses. Elevate your experience with optional garnishes like luscious Ghirardelli Caramel and Chocolate Sauces, fluffy Whipped Cream, aromatic Cinnamon, and a vibrant Maraschino Cherry! This recipe celebrates the artistry of creating a truly special bourbon cocktail. In this episode, this seductive drink is elegantly served in a stunning cut glass Irish Coffee Mug, adding a touch of sophistication to any celebration.

RECIPE: 
1.5 Ounces of Bourbon
.5 Ounce of White Chocolate Liqueur 
<.5 Ounce of Bourbon Barrel Aged Maple Syrup
4 Dashes of Aztec Chocolate Bitters
Hot Chocolate to Fill
Garnish with Whipped Cream, A Dash of Cinnamon, and a Maraschino Cherry 

AMAZON AFFILIATE LINKS (commissions earned):

18″x12″ PVC Bar Service Mat for Cocktail Bartender: https://amzn.to/42GjdxR 

Briout Jigger for Bartending: https://amzn.to/3DUjva3 

Mindspace Utensil Holder, Kitchen Condiment Organizer and Flatware Utensil Caddy: https://amzn.to/3ELKvIW 

Bourbon Barrel Maple Syrup: https://amzn.to/40Cb2AU 

Fee Brothers Aztec Chocolate Cocktail Bitters: https://amzn.to/3ClJ43e 

Godinger Coffee Mugs, Glass Irish Coffee Mug Set: https://amzn.to/3PR51dq 

Ghirardelli Squeeze Bottles – Caramel, Chocolate & White Chocolate – Set of 3: https://amzn.to/4aYwFiu 

Milk Frothing Pitcher Stainless Steel: https://amzn.to/3Qj3IEy 

Coffee Mug Warmer: https://amzn.to/4jVK7rC 

Roland Premium Maraschino Cherries With Stems: https://amzn.to/4gJ221M 

5 Minutes to Make an AMAZING Chocolate Covered Cherry Cocktail 

In episode 4 of Thirsty Thursday Cocktails, we’re creating a cocktail that sets the perfect mood for Valentine’s Day – a Chocolate Covered Cherry Bourbon Cocktail! Inspired by the exquisite cherry cordial candies, this recipe guarantees an intoxicating aroma, rich flavor, and luxurious mouthfeel that mirrors the delights of the candies. Whether you choose to serve it neat in a coupe glass or over an ice ball in a rocks glass, this drink radiates sophistication. In this episode, we’re opting for a coupe glass to showcase the stunning dark red color and elegance of the cocktail.

RECIPE: 
1.5 Ounces of Bourbon
.75 Ounce of Creme de Cacao
4 Dashes of Aztec Chocolate Bitters
4 Dashes of Cherry Bitters
2 Bar Spoons of Luxardo Cherry Syrup
1 Luxardo Cherry for Garnish

AMAZON AFFILIATE LINKS (commissions earned):

18″x12″ PVC Bar Service Mat for Cocktail Bartender: https://amzn.to/42GjdxR 

MOFADO. Crystal Cocktail Mixing Glass: https://amzn.to/4jiZ0nl 

Briout Bar Spoon: https://amzn.to/3PJMwaN 

Briout Jigger for Bartending: https://amzn.to/3DUjva3 

Julep Strainer: https://amzn.to/3EgYxSJ 

Libbey Signature Kentfield Coupe Cocktail Glasses Set of 4: https://amzn.to/4gkKKI0 

Fee Brothers Aztec Chocolate Cocktail Bitters: https://amzn.to/3ClJ43e 

Fee Brothers Cherry Cocktail Bitters: https://amzn.to/42otmPk 

Luxardo Gourmet Cocktail Maraschino Cherries: https://amzn.to/3Wl8C7A 

Bourbon Lovers Rejoice! The Boulevardier Recipe You Need 

In episode 3 of Thirsty Thursday Cocktails, we’re crafting the ultimate Bourbon Based Boulevardier, pronounced: BOOL-LUH-VARRR DEE-AY. This bourbon-based Boulevardier is bold and warming—a drink you’ll eagerly reach for on a crisp fall or winter evening. Originating from 1927, this classic cocktail combines bourbon, sweet vermouth, and Campari to perfection. Whether served neat in a coupe glass or over an ice ball in a rocks glass, this drink exudes sophistication. In this episode, we’re opting for a coupe glass to enhance the warmth and elegance of the cocktail.

RECIPE: 
1.5 Ounces of Bourbon
1 Ounce of Sweet Vermouth
1 Ounce of Campari
Fresh Orange Peel for Garnish

AMAZON AFFILIATE LINKS (commissions earned):

True Bar Mat: https://amzn.to/4hi23ua 

MOFADO. Crystal Cocktail Mixing Glass: https://amzn.to/4jiZ0nl 

Briout Bar Spoon: https://amzn.to/3PJMwaN 

Briout Jigger for Bartending: https://amzn.to/3DUjva3 

Julep Strainer: https://amzn.to/3EgYxSJ 

A Bar Above Professional Quality Citrus Peeler: https://amzn.to/40RBwi9 

Libbey Signature Kentfield Coupe Cocktail Glasses Set of 4: https://amzn.to/4gkKKI0 

Discover the Surprising Stagg 24D Barrel Proof Bourbon! 

In this bourbon review episode, we showcase a remarkable find that took us by surprise – Stagg 24D, an unanticipated fourth release. Historically, Stagg has delighted enthusiasts with three annual releases (A, B, C), making this unexpected addition a thrilling revelation. While we haven’t actively pursued Stagg in the past, discovering this unique bottle during a recent trip to Louisville was exhilarating. We will thoroughly analyze every aspect, from its captivating nose to its impressive palate and finish. Join us as we share our in-depth insights on this exceptional surprise release of Stagg.

ABOUT THIS BOTTLE
Classification: Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
Company: Sazerac Company
Distillery: Buffalo Trace Distillery
Mash Bill Percentages: Undisclosed
Age: NAS (at least 4 years; rumored to be around 7-9 years old)
Proof: 127.4
MSRP: $70
Released: Bottled in December 2024 but released in January 2025
Other: Barrel Proof, Unfiltered
Purchased: 02/21/25 for $99.99 at Neat Bar & Bottle Shop in Louisville KY

AMAZON AFFILIATE LINKS (commissions earned):

GLENCAIRN Whiskey Glass, Gift Set of 4: https://amzn.to/4ak8DOR

CairnCaps Bamboo Whiskey Glass Lids – Set of 6: https://amzn.to/4hgIJh0&nbsp;

CairnCradle Whiskey Glass Rack: https://amzn.to/4amLZ8k&nbsp;

Unveiling February 2025’s TOP Whiskey! 

Join us for a blind tasting as we embark on a journey to determine which whiskey truly reigns supreme! Throughout this experience, you will observe as we rank and compare a selection of four whiskeys that were selected from our February 2025 tastings. 

OUR FOUR FINALISTS (in alphabetical order): 
*PENELOPE HAVANA COOPER SERIES
*SILK VELVET WHISKEY, SINGLE BARREL 7
*STAGG 24D
*WOODFORD RESERVE DOUBLE DOUBLE OAKED

Through a blind process, we evaluate each spirit for nose, taste, finish, and overall appeal. We rank them from 4th place to 1st place and then reveal each one. So grab your glasses and let’s raise a toast to an unforgettable evening brimming with celebration. Cheers!

DETAILS REGARDING OUR FOUR FINALISTS (in alphabetical order): 

PENELOPE HAVANA COOPER SERIES
Classification: Four Grain Straight Bourbon Whiskey
Distilled By: MGP – Ross & Squibb
Brand: Penelope
Mashbill: 74% Corn, 16% Wheat, 7% Rye, 3% Malted Barley
Age: 4 years on the Four Grain Straight Bourbon Whiskey
Age: 12 months in Caribbean rum casks
Age: 1 month in maple syrup barrels
Proof: 93
Purchased: 02/15/25 for $149.99 at High Spirits, Evansville, IN
Original YouTube Review:

SILK VELVET WHISKEY, SINGLE BARREL 7
Classification: Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
Company: Hargis Spirits, LLC – Henderson, KY
Distiller: Jacob Call
Distilled: In Kentucky
Process: Sour Mash
Bottled By: Western Kentucky Distilling Co.
Mashbill: 75% Corn, 21% Rye, 4% Malted Barley
Barrels: New White Oak Barrels with a #4 Char Level
Age: 6 Years
Proof: 107
Released: December 9, 2024 (Currently only in Kentucky)
MSRP: $79.99
Purchased: 01/23/25 for $82.79 at Beverage Barn, Henderson, KY
Original YouTube Review:

STAGG 24D
Classification: Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
Company: Sazerac Company
Distillery: Buffalo Trace Distillery
Mash Bill Percentages: Undisclosed
Age: NAS (at least 4 years; rumored to be around 7-9 years old)
Proof: 127.4
MSRP: $70
Released: Bottled in December 2024 but released in January 2025
Other: Barrel Proof, Unfiltered
Purchased: 02/21/25 for $99.99 at Neat Bottle Shop in Louisville KY 
Original YouTube Review:

WOODFORD RESERVE DOUBLE DOUBLE OAKED
Type: Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
Distilled By: Woodford Reserve
Mashbill: 72% Corn, 18% Rye, 10% Malted Barley
Aged: 5-7 Years then up to 2 Years in a second barrel
Proof: 90.4
MSRP: $199.99 (700 ml bottle)
Released: January 2025
Purchased 02/01/25 for $299.99 at High Spirits, Evansville, IN
Original YouTube Review:  

**REMEMBER TO ALWAYS DRINK RESPONSIBLY**

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Visit: https://www.youtube.com/@YourBourbonJourney/featured for additional videos to enhance Your Bourbon Journey!

Questions? YourBourbonJourney@gmail.com

NOTE: 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.

What Makes Little Book the Infinite Edition 1 SO SPECIAL? 

In this bourbon review episode, we are excited to unveil and indulge in the 2024 Little Book the Infinite Edition 1. This highly sought-after release, which launched in September 2024, is set to become a staple in the world of limited edition releases. We will dissect every aspect, from its captivating nose to its complex palate and gratifying finish. Join us as we share our insights on why this exceptional bottle, crafted by three generations of master distillers, Booker Noe, Fred Noe, and Freddie Noe, is undeniably a worthy investment.

ABOUT THIS BOTTLE
Classification: Straight Bourbon
Company: Beam Suntory
Distillery: Jim Beam
Mashbill: Undisclosed Blend of four bourbons:
-Booker Noe’s Component: Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, Aged 20 years
‍-Fred Noe’s Component: Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, Aged 14 years
-Freddie Noe’s Component: Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, Aged 7 years
-Shared Family Component: Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, Aged 8 Years
Age: Blend of bourbons aged 7-20 years
Proof: 119.3
Release Date: August 2024
Price Paid: $200.00

AMAZON AFFILIATE LINKS (commissions earned):

GLENCAIRN Whiskey Glass, Gift Set of 4: https://amzn.to/4ak8DOR

CairnCaps Bamboo Whiskey Glass Lids – Set of 6: https://amzn.to/4hgIJh0&nbsp;

CairnCradle Whiskey Glass Rack: https://amzn.to/4amLZ8k&nbsp;