Women in Whiskey

Is This the Best Apple Brandy Cocktail? Hoosier Meets Caribbean 

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Indiana Heritage Meets Caribbean Spice in “The Orchard’s Journey”

Welcome back to Your Bourbon Journey! In Episode 66 of our Thirsty Thursday series, we are bridging the gap between the refined rows of the Huber family orchard in Indiana and the aggressive, tropical “hogo” funk of Jamaica.

Tonight, I’m showing you how to craft The Orchard’s Journey, a sophisticated, spirit-forward cocktail that features two powerhouse pours from Starlight Distillery: their 112-proof Apple Brandy Cask Finished Bourbon and their incredible 12-Year Estate Apple Brandy.

We’re adding a deep, jammy anchor with Merlet Cassis and a savory, spicy kick with 30 drops of Bittercube Jamaican #1 Bitters. If you love complex, dry, and wood-influenced cocktails, this “Funky Apple Sipper” is for you!

Join me as we explore:

  • The unique cinnamon-apple bridge of Starlight’s finished bourbon.
  • The transformed, caramelized profile of a 12-year-old estate brandy.
  • How to balance intense Jamaican spices (ginger, black pepper, allspice) in a stirred drink.
  • A “not-tiki” tropical teaser for next week!

Don’t forget to Like, Comment, and Subscribe for more bourbon deep-dives and craft cocktail recipes!

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The Recipe: The Orchard’s Journey

  • 2 oz Starlight Bourbon Finished in Apple Brandy (112 Proof)
  • 0.75 oz Starlight 12-Year Estate Apple Brandy
  • 0.75 oz Merlet Cassis Liqueur
  • 30 Drops (3 Dashes) Bittercube Jamaican #1 Bitters
  • Garnish: Expressed Lemon Twist

Instructions:

  1. Combine all ingredients into a mixing glass.
  2. Add ice and stir for approximately 30 seconds until well-chilled and properly diluted.
  3. Strain into a pre-chilled coupe glass.
  4. Express a fresh lemon twist over the top and drop it into the glass.
  5. Cheers to the journey!

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NOTE: The spirits and items in this review were purchased by us. We were not compensated by the producers for this review. Please drink responsibly.

#YourBourbonJourney #StarlightDistillery #AppleBrandy #BourbonCocktails #CraftCocktails #HomeBartender #ThirstyThursday #WhiskeyEnthusiast #IndianaSpirits #CocktailRecipe #MerletCassis #Bittercube #DrinkResponsibly #SpicedCocktail #Mixology

Why This 3-Hour Toasted Barrel Changes Everything | Cascadia

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We found the “Space Mountain” of Bourbon! | Bardstown Cascadia Review

Is a three-hour toast the secret to the perfect bourbon? Today on Your Bourbon Journey, Wayne and Rebecca head to the “Oregon Trail” (by way of Kentucky!) to taste the highly anticipated Bardstown Bourbon Company Distillery Reserve: Cascadia Garryana Oak Barrel Finish.

Released on March 20, 2026, this 107.5-proof gem is defined by the scarcity of its wood. Garryana Oak (Oregon White Oak) cannot be farmed—it must be harvested from fallen or sanctioned trees. Bardstown partnered with Oregon Barrel Works to create custom barrels that underwent a massive three-hour toast to pull out deep notes of clove, nutmeg, and baked cherry.

Is it worth the $99.99 price tag for a 375ml bottle? Wayne compares it to a wild ride on Space Mountain, while Rebecca explores the “French Oak” vibes and savory tannins.

In this video, we discuss:

  • How we managed to snag two bottles at the distillery (and the 60-day rule!).
  • The science behind the 3-hour toast vs. standard charring.
  • Full tasting notes: From “Clove Gum” on the nose to “Cherry Pie” on the palate.
  • Where to find it: Bardstown & Louisville tasting rooms.

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Bardstown Bourbon Company’s Distillery Reserve: Cascadia Garryana Oak Barrel Finish

  • Classification:  Straight Bourbon Whiskey
  • Company: Bardstown Bourbon Company
  • Mash Bill: Blend of three (9 & 10-year-old high-rye/low-rye bourbon mash bills)
  • Age: 9 years (plus 10-month finish)
  • Proof: 107.5
  • MSRP: $99.99 (375 ml)
  • Released: March 20, 2026
  • Purchased: 03/28/26 for $99.99 at Bardstown Bourbon Company
  • Other: This release is defined by the scarcity of its wood. Unlike standard American White Oak, Garryana (Oregon White Oak) cannot be farmed; it’s harvested only from fallen or sanctioned trees. Bardstown partnered with Oregon Barrel Works to create custom barrels that underwent a three-hour toast—a massive amount of time compared to standard barrel charring. 

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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.

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Knob Creek vs Booker’s: 2026 New Releases Tasted!

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The Big Easy Meets Master Blending! | Booker’s 2026-01 & Knob Creek Blender’s Edition Review

Today on Your Bourbon Journey, Wayne and Rebecca are heading to the heart of Clermont, KY, for a double-header from the James B. Beam Distilling Co.! We’re breaking down the first major releases of 2026: the powerhouse Booker’s Batch 2026-01 “The Big Easy” and the innovative Knob Creek Blender’s Edition 01.

One is a 129.1 proof tribute to Booker Noe’s love for New Orleans street food, and the other is a 10-year-old deep dive into the “sweeter side” of Knob Creek, curated by Freddie Noe and his blending team. From deep char and oak to confectionery vanilla bean, we’re covering the full spectrum of the Beam profile.

In this video, we discuss:

  • The legend of Booker Noe and the Lucky Dog street carts in the French Quarter.
  • A breakdown of the five warehouses that created “The Big Easy.”
  • How the Blender’s Edition deviates from the classic Knob Creek “spice bomb” profile.
  • Full tasting notes: Nose, Palate, and Finish for both expressions.

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Knob Creek Blender’s Edition 1

  • Classification: Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
  • Company: Beam Suntory
  • Distillery: James B. Beam Distilling Co. (Clermont/Beam, KY)
  • Mash Bill: 77% Corn, 13% Rye, 10% Malted Barley
  • Age: 10 years
  • Proof: 106
  • MSRP: $44.99
  • Released: March 2026
  • Purchased: 03/28/26 for $44.99 at Jim Beam American Outpost

Booker’s 2026-01 The Big Easy

  • Classification: Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
  • Company: Beam Suntory
  • Distillery: James B. Beam Distilling Co. (Clermont/Beam, KY)
  • Mash Bill: 77% Corn, 13% Rye, 10% Malted Barley
  • Age: 7 years, 2 months, 15 days
  • Proof: 129.1
  • MSRP: $99.99
  • Released: March 2026
  • Purchased: 03/28/26 for $99.99 at Jim Beam American Outpost

❌YOUR BOURBON JOURNEY DOES NOT SELL ALCOHOL❌

🚨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.

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The Spirits are Coming! Dark Arts Cask Strength Bourbon

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The Spirits Have Arrived! | Dark Arts Armagnac Finish Bourbon Review

Was a $221 “splurge” at BourbonCon 2026 actually worth the price tag? Today on Your Bourbon Journey, Wayne and Rebecca dive into the mysterious world of Dark Arts Whiskey House. This isn’t just whiskey; it’s alchemy.

We’re tasting the Dark Arts Cask Strength Bourbon (Armagnac Finish)—a 10-year-old MGP-sourced powerhouse bottled at a stout 113 proof. From the striking purple bottle to the “jammy” fruit notes provided by the Armagnac casks, this bottle promised a “massive explosion of complexity.”

In this video, we discuss:

  • Our experience with brand “Spirit Guide” Sarah at BourbonCon.
  • The “Alchemy” philosophy: How Dark Arts transforms spirits through finishing.
  • A deep dive into the 60/36/4 high-rye mash bill.
  • Tasting Notes: Is that “all-spice” and “dried plum” or just high-proof heat?
  • Why Dark Arts chose to be a Non-Distilling Producer (NDP) and why it’s a brilliant business move.

Does the “Purple Bottle” live up to the hype, or did the aesthetics cloud our judgment? Grab a glass and join us for the breakdown!

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Dark Arts Cask Strength Bourbon (Armagnac Finish)

  • Classification:  Straight Bourbon Whiskey
  • Company: Dark Arts Whiskey House
  • Distilled: Sourced from MGP in Indiana  
  • Produced by: Dark Arts Whiskey House LLC
  • Bottled by: Divine Spirits LLC
  • Mash Bill: 60% Corn, 36% Rye, 4% Malted Barley
  • Age: 10 Years
  • Proof: 113 (Cask Strength)
  • Released: Early 2026
  • Other: Finished in Armagnac Cask; Batch AT2; Bottle 132
  • Purchased: 01/17/26 for $221 from Dark Arts at BourbonCon in Lexington KY

❌YOUR BOURBON JOURNEY DOES NOT SELL ALCOHOL❌

🚨REMEMBER TO ALWAYS DRINK RESPONSIBLY🚨

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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.

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Making The Desert Bloom: A Prickly Pear Bourbon Refreshment

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Episode 64: The Desert Bloom | Neon Pink Highball!

The garden has finally woken up! 🌸 Today on Your Bourbon Journey, Rebecca kicks off our April “Vibrant Spring” series with a cocktail that looks like a neon dream but hits like a heavyweight. Meet The Desert Bloom.

We’re trading forest floor flavors for high-desert botanicals, using a stunning Prickly Pear Syrup to create a “Neon Heart” in the glass. But don’t let the pink hue fool you—this isn’t a “sugar bomb.” By using Old Grand-Dad 114, we provide a spicy, high-proof anchor that stands up to the citrus and sweetness.

The real magic trick? Celery Bitters. This savory “garden snap” cuts through the candy notes, grounding the drink in a sophisticated, botanical reality. If you’re looking for a refreshing yet bold highball to celebrate the return of spring, this is your new go-to.

In this video, Rebecca breaks down:

  • The “Neon Heart”: Working with Prickly Pear Syrup.
  • Why OGD 114 is the perfect high-rye foundation for tall drinks.
  • The “Secret Weapon”: How celery bitters transform a fruit-forward cocktail.
  • The “Mineral Effervescence” of club soda as a flavor conductor.

Recipe: The Desert Bloom

  • 2 oz Old Grand-Dad 114 Bourbon
  • .75 oz Prickly Pear Syrup
  • .50 oz Fresh Lemon Juice
  • 1 bar spoon Demerara Syrup
  • 2 dashes Fee Brothers Celery Bitters
  • 2 oz Club Soda
  • Garnish: Fresh Mint Sprig (Don’t forget to slap it!)

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NOTE: The spirits and items in this review were purchased by us. We were not compensated by the producers for this review. Please drink responsibly.

#Bourbon #WhiskeyCocktail #YourBourbonJourney #OldGrandDad114 #Mixology #SpringCocktails #PricklyPear #ThirstyThursday #BourbonCommunity #HomeBartender #CocktailRecipe #DrinkResponsibly #BourbonLife #WhiskeyTasting #HighProof

Four Branches Bourbon: 4 Veterans, 4 Grains, One Incredible Pour

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🥃 Four Branches Bourbon: A Salute to Service in Every Sip! 🇺🇸

In this episode of Your Bourbon Journey, Wayne and Rebecca dive into a bottle with a powerful story: Four Branches Bourbon Founders Blend. Founded by four veterans representing the Army, Navy, Marines, and Air Force, this whiskey is built on the motto: “Serve Honorably. Drink Honorably.”

We picked this bottle up at BourbonCon 2026 in Lexington, KY, after being blown away by the founders’ passion. This unique four-grain bourbon (Corn, Rye, Wheat, and Malted Barley) was crafted with the help of legendary Master Distiller Steve Nally at Bardstown Bourbon Company.

Is it as “spicy” as a Marine or as “smooth” as the Air Force? We break down the creamy mouthfeel, the surprising citrus notes, and that signature “Kentucky Kiss” on the finish.

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Four Branches Bourbon, Founders Blend

  • Classification: Straight Bourbon Whiskey
  • Company: Four Branches Spirits
  • Mash Bill: It is a unique four-grain blend (65% Corn, 15% Rye, 10% Malted Barley, and 10% Wheat). 
  • Age: 4-7 Years
  • Proof: 96
  • Batch: 013
  • Purchased: 01/17/26 for $75 at BourbonCon in Lexington KY

❌YOUR BOURBON JOURNEY DOES NOT SELL ALCOHOL❌

🚨REMEMBER TO ALWAYS DRINK RESPONSIBLY🚨

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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.

#FourBranchesBourbon #BourbonReview #VeteranOwned #WhiskeyTasting #BourbonJourney #KentuckyBourbon #FourGrainBourbon #SteveNally #BardstownBourbon #BourbonCon #MilitaryVeterans #WhiskeyLover #DrinkHonorably #BourbonLife #SmallBatchBourbon

Spring in a Glass: The Vernal Equinox Bourbon Sour

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Goodbye Winter, Hello Spring! 🌸 The Vernal Equinox Cocktail

Is your palate still wearing a heavy winter coat? It’s time to trade the leather jacket for something bright, crisp, and vibrant! In Episode 63 of Thirsty Thursday Cocktails, Rebecca from Your Bourbon Journey introduces The Vernal Equinox—a sophisticated, spirit-forward riff on the classic whiskey sour that celebrates the return of the light.

This isn’t your average sugary fruit punch. By using Old Grand-Dad Bottled-in-Bond as a high-rye foundation and swapping traditional simple syrup for the jammy, sophisticated notes of Starlight Blackberry Whiskey, we create a “Dark Fruit Transition” that is perfectly balanced by fresh lemon and floral plum bitters. Plus, we’re achieving that luxurious, pillowy “cloud layer” using Fee Foam for a silky mouthfeel without the egg white.

In this video, you’ll learn:

  • How to balance tart citrus with craft fruit whiskeys.
  • The secret to a “Dry Shake” for perfect cocktail texture.
  • Why a high-rye, 100-proof bourbon is the best anchor for spring flavors.

Love this build? Hit that SUBSCRIBE button and ring the bell so you don’t miss next week’s Episode 64: The Desert Bloom, where we’ll be using unique desert fruit syrups to keep the springtime vibes rolling!

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📖 The Recipe: The Vernal Equinox

Ingredients:

  • 1.5 oz Old Grand-Dad Bottled-in-Bond Bourbon (or your favorite high-rye bourbon)
  • 0.5 oz Starlight Blackberry Whiskey (The “Modifier”)
  • 0.5 oz Fresh Lemon Juice
  • 2 dashes Fee Brothers Plum Bitters
  • 3 dashes Fee Brothers Fee Foam (for that silky head)

Instructions:

  1. Combine: Add bourbon, blackberry whiskey, lemon juice, plum bitters, and Fee Foam into a shaker.
  2. Dry Shake: Shake without ice first to build that frothy, pillowy foam.
  3. Wet Shake: Add ice and shake vigorously to chill and dilute.
  4. Strain: Double-strain into a Double Old Fashioned glass over one large, clear ice rock.
  5. Garnish: Express a lemon peel over the glass and drop it in (or add a fresh blackberry) to keep it bright!

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🚨REMEMBER TO ALWAYS DRINK RESPONSIBLY🚨

NOTE: The spirits and items in this review were purchased by us. We were not compensated by the producers for this review. Please drink responsibly.

#CocktailRecipes #BourbonLover #WhiskeySour #SpringCocktails #HomeBartender #StarlightDistillery #OldGrandDad #ThirstyThursday #Mixology #BlackberryWhiskey #BourbonJourney #DrinkResponsibly #CraftCocktails #VernalEquinox #BartenderTips

A Real Disruptor? General Thomas Bourbon Single Barrel 

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The “Rock of Chickamauga” in a Bottle! | General Thomas Bourbon Review

Can a “disruptor” bourbon live up to the hype? Today on Your Bourbon Journey, Wayne and Rebecca are tasting a bottle that caught our eye (and ears!) at BourbonCon 2026 in Lexington: General Thomas Bourbon Single Barrel (Barrel 3).

Named after the Civil War hero General George Henry Thomas, this brand was launched by Fort Thomas native Dan Gorman to tell the story of a local legend. But is it just a “gimmick” with a cool AI QR code, or is the liquid inside actually battle-ready?

With a high-rye mash bill and a sturdy 110 proof, this 5-year-old Kentucky Straight Bourbon surprised us with an “effervescent” spice and a unique finish that reminds us of a morning espresso. From the brown sugar nose to the lingering leather and coffee notes, this is a “morning bourbon” that will definitely wake up your palate!

In this video, we discuss:

  • The “disruptor” vision behind sourcing 20 premium surplus barrels.
  • A full nose, palate, and finish breakdown (spoiler: it’s a spice bomb!).
  • The incredible personalized AI message from the General himself.

Stick around until the end to hear a direct order from General Thomas!

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General Thomas Bourbon Single Barrel

  • Classification: Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
  • Company: General Thomas Spirits LLC
  • Distillery: Sourced from a Northern Kentucky distillery (Bottled in Newport, KY)
  • Mash Bill: High-Rye (Known for bold spice and a smooth finish)
  • Age: 5 Years
  • Proof: 110
  • MSRP: $70
  • Other: Barrel 3
  • Purchased: 01/16/26 for $73 at BourbonCon in Lexington KY

❌YOUR BOURBON JOURNEY DOES NOT SELL ALCOHOL❌

🚨REMEMBER TO ALWAYS DRINK RESPONSIBLY🚨

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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.

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Old Grand-Dad 114 Old Fashioned | Velvety, Bold, Unforgettable

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Kick Back with the Post Parade Old Fashioned | Episode 62 Thirsty Thursday Cocktails

Last week’s Dublin Botanist was a crisp linen suit, but the Post Parade Old Fashioned is your favorite broken-in leather jacket. In this episode of Thirsty Thursday Cocktails, we’re leaving the botanical gardens of Ireland behind and heading home to the bold, barrel-charred heart of Kentucky.

If you love a high-proof bourbon with a velvety finish, this is the build for you. We’re using the iconic Old Grand-Dad 114 to provide a “cinnamon-red-hot” punch, balanced by the “silken secret” of gum syrup for a luxurious, viscous mouthfeel. With the earthy, aromatic spice of cardamom bitters and the bright pop of expressed orange oils, this cocktail is a masterclass in texture and high-rye spice.

Whether you’re a bourbon aficionado or just looking for a cozy, high-end drink to wake up your palate, the Post Parade is the ultimate “Kentucky Hug” in a glass.

Next Week: We’re celebrating the shift in seasons! Join us for Episode 63: The Vernal Equinox, where we’ll be leaning into bright, fresh, and balanced flavors for Spring.

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🥃 Ingredients & Recipe

The Components:

  • 2 oz Old Grand-Dad 114 Bourbon (High-Rye Backbone)
  • 1/4 oz Gum Syrup (The Silken Secret)
  • 2 dashes Fee Brothers Cardamom Bitters (The Warm Notes)
  • Garnish: Thick Orange Peel

Instructions:

  1. Combine: Add the bourbon, gum syrup, and cardamom bitters into a mixing glass filled with plenty of ice.
  2. Stir: Stir for 20-30 seconds. Because of the high proof and the gum syrup, a longer stir ensures a perfectly integrated, silky texture.
  3. Strain: Strain the mixture into a rocks glass over one large clear ice cube.
  4. Garnish: Express the orange peel over the glass to release those essential oils, then drop it in.

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NOTE: The spirits and items in this review were purchased by us. We were not compensated by the producers for this review. Please drink responsibly.

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The Best Irish Whiskey Cocktail? Meet The Dublin Botanist

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🍀 The Dublin Botanist: A Sophisticated St. Patrick’s Day Irish Sazerac

Ditch the green food coloring and step into springtime with The Dublin Botanist. In Episode 61 of Thirsty Thursday Cocktails, Rebecca from Your Bourbon Journey crafts a “dry” Irish cocktail that fits like a crisp linen suit. Using Ha’penny Irish Whiskey as our floral backbone, this drink is a sophisticated riff on the classic Sazerac, trading heavy syrups for bright, botanical complexity.

We’re elevating the experience with a Dom Bénédictine rinse and a unique blend of Peychaud’s and Lavender bitters. Whether you are celebrating St. Paddy’s week or just looking for a clean, mineral finish to your evening, this cocktail is the ultimate “green” spirit in flavor and soul.

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📋 The Spec Sheet

  • 2 oz Ha’penny Irish Whiskey (The floral/herbal star)
  • 1 barspoon Demerara Syrup (To round the edges)
  • 3 dashes Peychaud’s Bitters (Classic Sazerac spice & anise)
  • 2 dashes Strongwater Lavender Bitters (The signature floral lift)
  • Rinse: Dom Bénédictine (For an herbal, honeyed foundation)
  • Garnish: Fresh Lemon Peel

🛠 Technique & Instructions

  1. Chill the Glass: Place a rocks glass in the freezer or fill with ice water while you prep.
  2. The Mix: In a mixing glass, combine the Ha’penny Whiskey, Demerara syrup, Peychaud’s, and Lavender bitters.
  3. Stir: Add plenty of ice and stir for 20–25 seconds. Proper dilution is key to letting the botanicals breathe!
  4. The Rinse: Discard the ice from your chilled rocks glass. Add a splash of Dom Bénédictine, swirl to coat the interior, and dump the excess.
  5. The Pour: Strain the cocktail into the rinsed glass. Serve “up” or over one large clear rock.
  6. The Garnish: Express a lemon peel over the surface to release those bright citrus oils, then drop it in.

🚨REMEMBER TO ALWAYS DRINK RESPONSIBLY🚨

NOTE: The spirits and items in this review were purchased by us. We were not compensated by the producers for this review. Please drink responsibly.

#DublinBotanist #IrishWhiskey #StPatricksDay #CocktailRecipe #Mixology #Sazerac #ThirstyThursday #HomeBartender #WhiskeyLover #BotanicalCocktails #DrinkResponsibly #HapennyWhiskey #SpringDrinks #CraftCocktails #YourBourbonJourney