Your Bourbon Journey

The Ultimate Honey Finished Bourbon Blind Taste Test!

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The honey-finished bourbon trend is taking over the whiskey world, but which bottles actually deliver on their sweet promises? In this episode of Your Bourbon Journey, Wayne and Rebecca crack open four highly anticipated, freshly unsealed honey cask finished bourbons for a completely blind taste test. We evaluate each pour on a five-point scale, diving into their rich viscosity, complex tasting notes, and overall finish to see which barrel treatment stands out.

From estate-harvested honey hives and historical pot stills to deep-aged sourced blends and wheated bourbon bases, these craft distilleries are pushing the boundaries of secondary aging. We break down the unique mash bills, regional profiles, and surprising palates—ranging from rich confectionary sugar and creamy vanilla custard to hot-stinging white pepper and toasted wood notes.

Are these bottles all buzz, or do they showcase the ultimate harmony between traditional straight bourbon and honey barrel finishing? Grab a glass, hit that subscribe button, and join us on this ultimate blind lineup!

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❌YOUR BOURBON JOURNEY DOES NOT SELL ALCOHOL❌

Casey Jones Barrel Finished Series: Honey Bourbon (“Brown Beauty”)

  • Classification: Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey Finished in a Honey Barrel
  • Company & Distillery: Casey Jones Distillery (Hopkinsville, KY)
  • Mash Bill: Undisclosed 
  • Age: Undisclosed
  • Proof: 102.7 Proof (51.35% ABV)
  • Released: Spring 2026 (Featuring the commemorative “250 Years Strong / United We Stand” neck wrap.
  • Purchased: May 9, 2026 for $89.99 at BBQ & Barrels in Owensboro, KY

Dark Arts “A Long Strange Drip” Honey Cask Finish (Batch 2)

  • Classification: A Blend of Sweet & Sour MashÂŽ Straight Bourbon Whiskey Finished in a Honey Cask
  • Company: Dark Arts Whiskey House
  • Distillery: Sourced from undisclosed distilleries
  • Mash Bill: A blend of two distinct mash bills: (1) Kentucky Sweet Mash: 64% Corn, 24% Rye, 12% Malted Barley; (2) Indiana Sour Mash: 75% Corn, 21% Rye, 4% Malted Barley
  • Age: A blend of 5+ Year Old (Kentucky) and 8+ Year Old (Indiana) bourbons.
  • Proof: 110.3 Proof (55.15% ABV)
  • Released: Early 2026
  • Purchased: May 30, 2026 for $79.99 at Cox’s Evergreen (Bardstown, KY)

Starlight Distillery Honey Reserve Bourbon (Batch 1)

  • Classification: Straight Bourbon Whiskey Finished in Honey Barrels
  • Company: Huber’s Starlight Distillery
  • Distillery: Starlight Distillery (Borden, IN)
  • Mash Bill: Blend of two estate-distilled sweet mash bills: a 3-grain (60% Corn, 20% Rye, 20% Malted Barley) and a 4-grain (51% Corn, 20% Rye, 20% Malted Barley, 9% Wheat)
  • Age: 5 Years (Minimum age before finishing)
  • Proof: 106 Proof (53% ABV)
  • Released: Early 2026
  • Purchased: April 11, 2026 for $69.99 at Starlight Distillery

Wenzel Honey Cask Finished Bourbon (Batch 1)

  • Classification: Straight Bourbon Whiskey Finished in Honey Casks
  • Company: Wenzel Whiskey LLC
  • Distillery: Sourced 
  • Mash Bill: Wheated Bourbon 
  • Age: 7 Years
  • Proof: 104.1 Proof
  • Released: May 2026
  • Purchased: May 1, 2026 for $109 at Wenzel Distillery

🚨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 Ultimate Summer Bourbon Sour: The Solstice Sour Recipe

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Welcome to Episode 76 of Thirsty Thursday Cocktails on Your Bourbon Journey! 

Tonight, we are celebrating the official arrival of summer with the Solstice Sour—a deep, complex, and refreshing Amaro-Sour hybrid. If you are ready to move away from overly sweet, bright orchard fruit drinks and step into a sophisticated, highly structured cocktail that stays crisp on hot June nights, this is the pour for yourself.

In this video, we split the base between an incredible high-proof bourbon and a world-class Italian amaro. We are anchoring this expanded build with a full two ounces of Old Grand-Dad 114 Single Barrel (the 7-Year expression), giving the drink an amazing backbone, seasoned oak notes, and a velvety mouthfeel. We pair that punchy proof with Amaro Montenegro, which weaves in a lower-proof botanical complexity of bitter orange peel, coriander, and soft vanilla to mirror a perfect summer sunset. Balanced with fresh squeezed lemon juice, rich Demerara syrup, and dark stone-fruit plum bitters, this spirit-forward cocktail finishes incredibly long, complex, and completely dry.

Grab a bottle of OGD 114, press some fresh citrus, and mix this up tonight. 

Cheers to welcoming summer in all its glory!

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📋 The Solstice Sour Recipe & Ingredients

  • 2 oz Straight Bourbon Whiskey (Featured: Old Grand-Dad 114 Single Barrel 7-Year)
  • 0.75 oz Amaro Montenegro
  • 0.50 oz Fresh Lemon Juice (Always test your lemons for tartness!)
  • 0.50 oz Demerara Syrup
  • 3 Dashes Fee Brothers Plum Cocktail Bitters
  • Garnish: Skewered Luxardo Cherry

🛠️ Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Combine: Add the bourbon, Amaro Montenegro, fresh lemon juice, Demerara syrup, and plum bitters directly into your cocktail shaking tin.
  2. Shake: Add clean, hard ice and shake vigorously for 15 to 20 seconds until well-chilled and aerated.
  3. Serve: Strain the cocktail over a single large, clear ice ball into a double rocks glass.
  4. Garnish: Express fresh lemon oils over the rim (discard the peel), top with a skewered Luxardo cherry, and enjoy!

🚨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. 

#BourbonCocktails #WhiskeySour #OldGrandDad114 #AmaroMontenegro #YourBourbonJourney #ThirstyThursdayCocktails #SummerCocktails #AmaroSour #CraftCocktailRecipes #BourbonDrinks #CocktailHour #HomeBartender #WhiskeyLovers #SolsticeSour #LuxardoCherry

Why Bourbon Lovers Are Flocking to Old Louisville Whiskey Co

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Welcome back to Your Bourbon Journey! Today, Wayne and Rebecca are diving deep into a lineup from one of our absolute favorite stops on the trail: Old Louisville Whiskey Co. Founded by Amine Karaoud, this family-owned brand has become a go-to for incredible, well-aged MGP barrels, unique finishes, and the absolute best single barrel thieving experience in the business.

In this episode, we are cracking open three incredible expressions, including a highly anticipated private club exclusive bottle and two unique wood-finished single barrels. We’ll break down the nose, the palate, and the finishes—and compete in a classic “Your Bourbon Journey” taste-off to see which bottle wins the day!

Featured Bottles in This Tasting:

  • Old Louisville Single Barrel Bourbon (Columbian Oak Finish)
  • Old Louisville Wheated Bourbon (OL Club Batch 1)
  • Old Louisville Single Barrel Bourbon (Hungarian Oak Finish)

Have you visited Amine at the brand-new Old Louisville Whiskey Co. location yet? What is your favorite unique wood finish on a bourbon? Let us know in the comments below!

If you love honest bourbon reviews and whiskey tasting adventures, hit that SUBSCRIBE button, drop a like, and always remember to drink responsibly. Cheers!

Connect With Us & Support The Journey! 


🎓 Want to earn a FREE Whiskey Certificate? Start your bourbon education journey with Whiskey University today! Take your first steps here: https://www.whiskeyuniv.com/first-steps

❌YOUR BOURBON JOURNEY DOES NOT SELL ALCOHOL❌

Old Louisville Whiskey Co. Single Barrel Bourbon (Columbian Oak)

  • Classification: Straight Bourbon Whiskey Finished in Columbian Oak Casks
  • Company: Old Louisville Whiskey Co.
  • Distillery: Distilled in Indiana (MGP), Bottled by Old Louisville Whiskey Co.
  • Mash Bill: 75% Corn, 21% Rye, 4% Malted Barley
  • Age: 10 Years
  • Proof: 101 Proof
  • Released: Limited Small-Batch / Single Barrel Release

Old Louisville Whiskey Co. Wheated Bourbon (OL Club Batch 1)

  • Classification: Straight Bourbon Whiskey
  • Company: Old Louisville Whiskey Co.
  • Distillery: Distilled in Indiana (MGP), Bottled by Old Louisville Whiskey Co.
  • Mash Bill: 51% Corn, 46% Wheat, 3% Malted Barley
  • Age: 10 Years
  • Proof: 107.4 Proof
  • Released: Private Club Exclusive / Limited Batch (Bottle 9/200)

Old Louisville Whiskey Co. Single Barrel Bourbon (Hungarian Oak)

  • Classification: Straight Bourbon Whiskey Finished in Hungarian Oak Casks
  • Company: Old Louisville Whiskey Co.
  • Distillery: Distilled in Indiana (MGP), Bottled by Old Louisville Whiskey Co.
  • Mash Bill: Unknown (Typically uses their signature high-rye or traditional bourbon base before finishing)
  • Age: 8 Years
  • Proof: 122.6 Proof
  • Released: Limited Single Barrel Selection

🚨REMEMBER TO ALWAYS DRINK RESPONSIBLY🚨

❓Questions❓ YourBourbonJourney@gmail.com

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

#Bourbon #WhiskeyTasting #OldLouisvilleWhiskeyCo #BourbonReview #SingleBarrelBourbon #WheatedBourbon #MGPPour #CaskStrength #WhiskeyReview #YourBourbonJourney #KentuckyBourbon #BourbonClub #ColumbianOak #HungarianOak #BourbonHunting

Unboxing Rare Remus Reserve: Lux Row Distillery Event Haul 

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We are officially hooked! In this episode of Your Bourbon Journey, we dive deep into the highly coveted Remus Reserve Collection from Ross & Squibb Distillery. After an exclusive, intimate tasting event with Master Distiller Ian Stirsman at Lux Row Distillers, we walked away as full converts to the MGP / Luxco flavor profile. Today, we are cracking open three incredible bottles to see how they stack up side-by-side.

First up is the spectacular Remus Gatsby Reserve 2025, a massive 15-year-old straight bourbon whiskey bottled at a cask strength of 102.8 proof. Released as a centennial celebration of F. Scott Fitzgerald’s classic 1925 novel.

Next, we step up to the plate with the brand-new, limited-edition Remus Lou Gehrig Reserve (Released May 2026). Honoring the Iron Horse’s legendary 109 RBI season in 1926 at 109 proof, this bottle masterfully blends four distinct mash bills to match his iconic #4 jersey.

Finally, we round out the lineup with the heavy-hitting Remus Babe Ruth Reserve (2025 Edition). Clocking in at the highest proof on the table at 111, this medley of three high-rye mash bills commemorates the Bambino’s career professional at-bats.

Which of these ultra-premium Ross & Squibb MGP expressions takes home the crown? Watch to find out our definitive ranking! Have you been lucky enough to find any of these Remus Reserve bottles in the wild? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!

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🎓 Want to earn a FREE Whiskey Certificate? Start your bourbon education journey with Whiskey University today! Take your first steps here: https://www.whiskeyuniv.com/first-steps

❌YOUR BOURBON JOURNEY DOES NOT SELL ALCOHOL❌

Remus Gatsby Reserve 2025

  • Classification: Straight Bourbon Whiskey
  • Company: Luxco / MGP
  • Distillery: Ross & Squibb Distillery (Lawrenceburg, IN)
  • Mash Bill: 75% Corn, 21% Rye, 4% Malted Barley
  • Age: 15 Years
  • Proof: 102.8 Proof (51.4% ABV)
  • SRP: $199.99
  • Released: October 2025
  • Other: Cask strength. Released as a centennial celebration of F. Scott Fitzgerald’s classic 1925 novel.
  • Purchased: 05/29/26 for $219.99 at Lux Row Distillers, Bardstown KY

Remus Lou Gehrig Reserve

  • Classification: Straight Bourbon Whiskey
  • Company: Luxco / MGP
  • Distillery: Ross & Squibb Distillery (Lawrenceburg, IN)
  • Mash Bill: Medley of 4 distinct mash bills (reflecting his #4 jersey):
    • 70% is 2017 distillation (49% Rye / 51% Corn / 10% Malted Rye)
    • 14% is 2016 distillation (44% Rye)
    • 8% is 2019 distillation (36% Rye)
    • 8% is 2019 distillation (99% Corn / 1% Malted Barley)
  • Age: NAS (Blend of 7 to 10-year-old bourbons)
  • Proof: 109 Proof (54.5% ABV) — Honors his 109 RBI season in 1926
  • SRP: $149.99
  • Released: May 2026
  • Other: Limited to exactly 9,665 numbered bottles, representing each of the Iron Horse’s career plate appearances.
  • Purchased: 05/29/26 for $155.99 at Lux Row Distillers, Bardstown KY

Remus Babe Ruth Reserve (2025 Edition)

  • Classification: Straight Bourbon Whiskey
  • Company: Luxco / MGP
  • Distillery: Ross & Squibb Distillery (Lawrenceburg, IN)
  • Mash Bill: Medley of 3 distinct mash bills (reflecting his #3 jersey):
    • 73% is 2017 distillation (51% Corn, 39% Unmalted Rye, 10% Malted Rye)
    • 15% is 2016 distillation (52% Corn, 44% Rye, 4% Malted Barley)
    • 12% is 2017 distillation (60% Corn, 36% Rye, 4% Malted Barley)
  • Age: NAS (Blend of 8 to 9-year-old bourbons)
  • Proof: 111 Proof (55.5% ABV)
  • SRP: $149.99
  • Released: June 2025
  • Other: Limited to 8,399 numbered bottles, marking his total career professional at-bats.
  • Purchased: 05/29/26 for $155.99 at Lux Row Distillers, Bardstown KY

🚨REMEMBER TO ALWAYS DRINK RESPONSIBLY🚨

❓Questions❓ YourBourbonJourney@gmail.com

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.

#YourBourbonJourney #RemusReserveBattle #RemusGatsbyReserve #RemusBabeRuthReserve #RemusLouGehrigReserve #MGPBourbon #RossAndSquibb #LuxRowDistillers #BourbonReview #RareWhiskey #MGP #BourbonTasting #CaskStrength #BourbonGeeks #BaseballCommemorativeBourbon

We Tested 3 Exotic European Oaks! Starlight Terroir Bourbon

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Can the geographic origin of a tree completely transform the flavor of a craft bourbon? We went to the upstairs tasting room at Starlight Distillery to put their highly anticipated Terroir Collection to the ultimate comparative tasting test!

Welcome back to Your Bourbon Journey! Today, Wayne and Rebecca are diving deep into the ultimate whiskey geek show: wood terroir. Starlight Distillery took the exact same 4.5-year-old Indiana Straight Bourbon sweet mash distillate and finished it in six distinct international oak varieties. While the Scandinavian oak was completely sold out, we successfully tasted five and brought home three distinctly different bottles to map out the incredible structural effects of international oak.

We break down three unique barrels sitting at an identical proof range (114.3 to 114.6 Proof) to ensure the heat doesn’t skew the results—allowing the wood density, grain structures, and international soils to tell the story. From the tight-grained, caramel-forward Balkan Oak of Bulgaria to the porous, highly oxidative Iberian Oak of Spain, and the intensely resinous, baking spice bomb that is the Carpathian Oak of Romania, this lineup will completely change how you view finished whiskey. Stick around until the end to see the shocking twist where our initial distillery impressions get completely flipped upside down on our home palates!

Have you picked up any bottles from the Starlight Terroir Series yet? Let us know your favorite in the comments below!

Support the Channel: If you love exploring rare distillery exclusives, deep-dive whiskey comparisons, and honest reviews, make sure to hit that SUBSCRIBE button, drop a comment, and give this video a thumbs up! Always remember to drink responsibly.

Connect With Us & Support The Journey! 

🎓 Want to earn a FREE Whiskey Certificate? Start your bourbon education journey with Whiskey University today! Take your first steps here: https://www.whiskeyuniv.com/first-steps

❌YOUR BOURBON JOURNEY DOES NOT SELL ALCOHOL❌

Starlight Terroir Collection

  • Classification: Indiana Straight Bourbon Whiskey
  • Distillery: Starlight Distillery
  • Mash Bill: Proprietary blend of 3-Grain 60% Corn, $20% Rye, 20% Malted Barley) and 4-Grain 51% Corn, 20% Rye, 20% Malted Barley, 9% Wheat) Sweet Mash
  • Age: 4.5 Years
  • SRP: $69.99
  • Purchased: 06/06/26 at Starlight Distillery, Borden Indiana 
  • Starlight Terroir Collection: Balkan Oak / Bulgaria; Proof: 114.6 
  • Starlight Terroir Collection: Iberian Oak / Spain; Proof: 114.3 Proof 
  • Starlight Terroir Collection: Carpathian Oak / Romania; Proof: 114.4 Proof 

🚨REMEMBER TO ALWAYS DRINK RESPONSIBLY🚨

❓Questions❓ YourBourbonJourney@gmail.com

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.

#StarlightDistillery #TerroirCollection #YourBourbon Journey #BourbonReview #CraftWhiskey #ExoticOak #IndianaBourbon #BalkanOak #IberianOak #CarpathianOak #SweetMash #BourbonTasting #WhiskeyGeek #SingleBarrel #DrinkResponsibly

Better Than An Old Fashioned? Try The Patriarch Gold Cocktail!

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Welcome to Episode 75 of Thirsty Thursday Cocktails! In tonight’s episode of Your Bourbon Journey, Rebecca walks you through how to craft “The Patriarch Gold”—a sophisticated, spirit-forward Father’s Day classic built for true whiskey lovers.

If you love a classic Old Fashioned, a Toronto, or a Monte Carlo, this elegant and robust variant is the perfect upgrade. We are anchoring this heavy-hitting build with a massive 2 oz pour of Knob Creek Single Barrel 120 Proof bourbon. Known for its rich notes of dark chocolate, roasted nuts, and deep oak, this high-proof expression provides the perfect structural backbone.

To bring balance, texture, and a beautiful herbal complexity, we split the modifiers between the iconic Amaro Nonino and a touch of rich, velvety bourbon barrel-aged maple syrup. Tied together with savory molasses bitters and bright orange bitters, this cocktail delivers a long, warming finish with lingering notes of leather, toasted nuts, and soft baking spices. It’s strong, steady, and classic—perfect for celebrating Father’s Day.

Subscribe to Your Bourbon Journey for more craft cocktail recipes, whiskey reviews, and home bartending tips!

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📜 THE RECIPE & INSTRUCTIONS

Ingredients:

  • 2 oz Knob Creek Single Barrel Bourbon (120 Proof)
  • 0.75 oz Amaro Nonino
  • 0.25 oz Bourbon Barrel Aged Maple Syrup
  • 2 dashes Molasses Cocktail Bitters
  • 1 dash Orange Bitters
  • Garnish: Expressed Orange Peel

Instructions:

  1. Combine the Knob Creek 120, Amaro Nonino, barrel-aged maple syrup, and both styles of bitters into a mixing glass.
  2. Fill the mixing glass with solid ice.
  3. Stir thoroughly for 30 to 45 seconds to achieve an ice-cold chill and proper dilution.
  4. Strain cleanly into a chilled rocks glass over a single large, clear ice core.
  5. Express a fresh orange peel over the top to release the bright citrus oils, drop it in as a garnish, and enjoy!

🎓 Want to earn a FREE Whiskey Certificate? Start your bourbon education journey with Whiskey University today! Take your first steps here: https://www.whiskeyuniv.com/first-steps

🚨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. 

#BourbonCocktail #KnobCreek #AmaroNonino #FathersDayCocktail #YourBourbonJourney #CraftCocktails #WhiskeyLovers #ThirstyThursdayCocktails #HomeBartender #OldFashionedVariant #SpiritForward #CocktailRecipes #BourbonBar #Mixology #FathersDayDrinks

Virginia Distillery Co. Brewer’s Coalition Review! 

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Is this the ultimate lineup for stout lovers and whiskey enthusiasts alike? 🥃✨ 

Today on Your Bourbon Journey, Wayne and Rebecca are diving deep into the highly anticipated Brewer’s Coalition from Virginia Distillery Co.! We are breaking down and ranking three phenomenal American Single Malt Whiskies finished in cult-favorite craft beer barrels.

From an award-winning gingerbread finish to a legendary North Carolina chocolate stout, and a wild double milk stout blend featuring real Madagascar vanilla and raspberries—this tasting completely blew us away. Can these 100-proof single malts stand up to traditional bourbon? We taste them blindly, break down the complex notes of cocoa nibs, warming ginger, and strawberry ice cream, and reveal our ultimate winner!

BOTTLES FEATURED IN THIS VIDEO:

 đŸŞđŸŻđŸĽƒ Hardywood Gingerbread Stout Cask Finish 

🍫☕️💪 Foothills Brewing Sexual Chocolate Stout Cask Finish  

🍓🍦🍨 4 Hands Brewing Co. Madagascar Stout Cask Finish  

If you love unique whiskey finishes, craft beer stouts, or want to expand your single malt palate, this episode is a must-watch. Let us know in the comments: which of these brewery collaborations would you reach for first? Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and join us on the journey!

Connect With Us & Support The Journey! 

🎓 Want to earn a FREE Whiskey Certificate? Start your bourbon education journey with Whiskey University today! Take your first steps here: https://www.whiskeyuniv.com/first-steps

❌YOUR BOURBON JOURNEY DOES NOT SELL ALCOHOL❌

📌 Looking to grab these bottles for your own collection? You can order them directly from Virginia Distillery Co.’s online shop right here: https://shop.vadistillery.com/ 

Brewer’s Coalition: Hardywood Gingerbread Stout Cask Finish

  • Classification: American Single Malt Whisky
  • Distillery: Virginia Distillery Co.
  • Mash Bill: 100% Malted Barley
  • Age: Aged over 5 years in ex-bourbon casks before secondary finishing
  • Proof: 100
  • SRP: $49.99 (700mL)
  • Released: Fall 2024 (Ranked #17 on Whisky Advocate’s Top 20 of 2024)
  • Other: Finished in casks that previously held Richmond-based Hardywood’s cult-favorite Imperial Stout brewed with local baby ginger and wildflower honey. 
  • Purchased: 04/03/26 for $49.99 at Virginia Distillery Co. Online

Brewer’s Coalition: Foothills Brewing Sexual Chocolate Stout Cask

  • Classification: American Single Malt Whisky
  • Distillery: Virginia Distillery Co.
  • Mash Bill: 100% Malted Barley
  • Age: Aged over 5 years in ex-bourbon casks before secondary finishing
  • Proof: 100
  • SRP: $54.99 (700mL)
  • Released: Late 2025
  • Other: Finished in barrels that once held Foothills Brewing’s (Winston-Salem, NC) famous cocoa-infused Imperial Stout. 
  • Purchased: 04/03/26 for $54.99 at Virginia Distillery Co. Online

Brewer’s Coalition: 4 Hands Brewing Co. Madagascar Stout Cask

  • Classification: American Single Malt Whisky
  • Distillery: Virginia Distillery Co.
  • Mash Bill: 100% Malted Barley
  • Age: ~5 years primary maturation in Heaven Hill ex-bourbon barrels, followed by a 10-month secondary finish in the stout casks.
  • Proof: 100
  • SRP: $54.99 (700mL)
  • Released: Early 2026
  • Other: A unique blend utilizing four 53-gallon casks from 4 Hands Brewing (St. Louis, MO): three that held Madagascar Raspberry Milk Stout and one that held Madagascar Vanilla Milk Stout. 
  • Purchased: 04/03/26 for $54.99 at Virginia Distillery Co. Online

🚨REMEMBER TO ALWAYS DRINK RESPONSIBLY🚨

❓Questions❓ YourBourbonJourney@gmail.com

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.

#WhiskeyReview #AmericanSingleMalt #VirginiaDistilleryCo #StoutCask #CraftBeerWhiskey #WhiskeyTasting #SingleMalt #SexualChocolateStout #Hardywood #FourHandsBrewing #YourBourbonJourney #WhiskeyGram #StoutLovers #UniqueWhiskey #WhiskeyRanking

We Tasted the Brand New Wheat Whiskeys (And One Left Us SPLIT!) 

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We are breaking down two of the biggest, highly limited wheat whiskey releases of 2026: the Bernheim 20th Anniversary Edition (10 Year) from Heaven Hill and Star Hill Farm 2026 (2nd Edition) from Maker’s Mark! Fresh off our trip to Bardstown, Kentucky, we scored these rare bottles and did a fresh crack tasting to see how they stack up.

The Bernheim 20th Anniversary is a 115-proof, 10-year small-batch powerhouse with a stunning copper label that brings an unexpected “yin-and-yang” sweet and spicy punch. Meanwhile, the 116.4-proof Star Hill Farm 2026 was just crowned the “World’s Best Wheat Whisky” at the 2026 World Whiskies Awards—but its shift to hard red and hard white wheat grains delivers a completely unique, heavily malted, date-nut cookie profile that left us split!

Are these wheaters worth the hunt and the premium price tags? Watch to find out which bottle takes the crown!

If you love whiskey reviews, distillery hunts, and following along on our bourbon journey, make sure to hit that SUBSCRIBE button, drop a comment with your favorite wheater, and always drink responsibly!

Connect With Us & Support The Journey! 


🎓 Want to earn a FREE Whiskey Certificate? Start your bourbon education journey with Whiskey University today! Take your first steps here: https://www.whiskeyuniv.com/first-steps

❌YOUR BOURBON JOURNEY DOES NOT SELL ALCOHOL❌

Bernheim 20th Anniversary Edition

  • Classification: Kentucky Straight Wheat Whiskey
  • Company: Heaven Hill; Distillery: Bernheim Distillery (Louisville, KY)
  • Mash Bill: 51% Wheat, 37% Corn, 12% Malted Barley
  • Age: 10 Years
  • Proof: 115
  • SRP: $85
  • Released: February 2026
  • Other: Features a unique copper label depicting an entire bushel of wheat instead of a single sheaf. Highly limited, small-batch release.
  • Purchased: 05/30/26 for $99.99 at Heaven Hill Bourbon Experience, Bardstown

Star Hill Farm 2026

  • Classification: American Wheat Whiskey
  • Company: Suntory Global Spirits; Distillery: Maker’s Mark
  • Mash Bill: 27% Wheat, 62% Malted Wheat, 11% Malted Barley
  • Age: 7-8 Year Blend
  • Proof: 116.4
  • SRP: $100
  • Released: April 2026 (Current 2nd Edition)
  • Other: Freshly crowned “World’s Best Wheat Whisky” at the 2026 World Whiskies Awards.
  • Purchased: 05/29/26 for $119.99 at Liquor World in Bardstown

🚨REMEMBER TO ALWAYS DRINK RESPONSIBLY🚨

❓Questions❓ YourBourbonJourney@gmail.com

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.

#WheatWhiskey #WhiskeyReview #Bernheim20thAnniversary #StarHillFarm2026 #HeavenHill #MakersMark #BourbonJourney #WhiskeyTasting #BardstownKy #AllocatedWhiskey #RareWhiskey #BourbonReview #WorldWhiskiesAwards #AmericanWhiskey #FlightFights

Is This Apple Pie Bourbon? WH McBrayer 250th Special Edition Review

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Happy Friday, bourbon lovers! With the 4th of July right around the corner, we are incredibly excited to taste and review a highly limited, deeply historic pour: the WH McBrayer 250th Special Edition Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey from McBrayer Legacy Spirits!

Commemorating America’s upcoming 250th anniversary, this special batch is a tribute to W.H. McBrayer (“The Judge”), one of Kentucky’s pioneering founding distillers. This unique expression features a historic mash bill of 88.4% Bloody Butcher Corn, 5.8% Heritage Rye, and 5.8% Malted Barley. Blended from just 11 barrels aged 5 to 7 years, it’s bottled at a perfect 105 proof with a low barrel entry proof and non-chill filtration.

Only 1,776 bottles were released! Does it live up to the legendary dark, leathery tobacco profile of “The Judge,” or does this special edition bring something completely different to the palate? We unpack the unexpected bakery notes, bright cinnamon, and long, delicate finish that has people comparing it to a quintessential American apple pie.

If you love whiskey history, rare mash bills, and honest reviews, hit that SUBSCRIBE button, drop a comment below, and always drink responsibly!

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👉 Grab Your Bottle Before They’re Gone: Secure yours directly from McBrayer Legacy Spirits: https://bourbonshop.mcbrayerspirits.com/products/w-h-mcbrayer-250th-special-edition Local Tip: If you are in the Cincinnati or Northern Kentucky area, you can also pick up a bottle from Brad Bonds at Revival Vintage Spirits!

🎓 Want to earn a FREE Whiskey Certificate? Start your bourbon education journey with Whiskey University today! Take your first steps here: https://www.whiskeyuniv.com/first-steps

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WH McBrayer 250th Special Edition

  • Classification: Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
  • Company: McBrayer Legacy Spirits
  • Distillery: Contract Distilled at Wilderness Trail
  • Mash Bill: 88.4% Bloody Butcher Corn, 5.8% Heritage Rye, 5.8% Malted Barley
  • Age: NAS (11 barrels that were 5-7 years old)
  • Proof: 105
  • SRP: $100
  • Released: June 5, 2026
  • Other: 1776 Bottles Released

🚨REMEMBER TO ALWAYS DRINK RESPONSIBLY🚨

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NOTE: Thank you to McBrayer Legacy Spirits for providing this bottle for review. Your Bourbon Journey maintains strict editorial independence; samples are accepted for educational and review purposes only and are never a guarantee of a favorable review.

Disclaimer: We  are not affiliated with McBrayer Legacy Spirits—we just love great whiskey and supporting the revival of an incredible bourbon legacy.

This Secret Bitters Combo Transforms Honey Bourbon!

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Struggling to find a honey bourbon cocktail that isn’t overly sweet or syrupy? In Episode 74 of Thirsty Thursday Cocktails, Rebecca fixes this classic cocktail dilemma with the “Honey Nut Cheers“—a spirit-forward, dry, and nutty special feature. 

Using the highly anticipated 92-proof Green River Honey Bourbon as a rich, natural wildflower canvas, this recipe introduces a sophisticated twist. By balancing the whiskey with crisp, herbaceous Carpano Dry Vermouth and a touch of Mediterranean vanilla from Licor 43, we pivot away from heavy dessert profiles. 

The real magic happens with the spine of the drink: a heavy-hitting combination of Fee Brothers Black Walnut and Toasted Almond bitters. Together, they deliver a spectacular, savory, roasted cereal-like aroma right at the rim that grounds the sweet honey notes perfectly. It’s rich, crisp, and incredibly sophisticated. 

Mix along with us, enjoy the deep woody finish of this adult childhood-cereal vibe, and don’t forget to subscribe for more premium whiskey reviews and craft cocktail recipes!

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🍸COCKTAIL INGREDIENTS:

  • • 2 oz Green River Honey Bourbon
  • • 0.75 oz Carpano Dry Vermouth
  • • 0.5 oz Licor 43
  • • 3 dashes Fee Brothers Black Walnut Cocktail Bitters
  • • 3 dashes Fee Brothers Almond Bitters
  • • Ice (for stirring)

📝 INSTRUCTIONS:

  • 1. Combine all ingredients into a mixing glass with solid ice.
  • 2. Stir thoroughly for 30 to 45 seconds to achieve the perfect chill, proper dilution, and to fully open up the toasted almond aromatics.
  • 3. Strain cleanly into a chilled coupe glass.
  • 4. Skip the garnish to let the incredible roasted, nutty aroma take center stage right at the rim! 

Please drink responsibly. Have a fabulous Thirsty Thursday!

🚨REMEMBER TO ALWAYS DRINK RESPONSIBLY🚨

NOTE:  The Green River Honey featured in this recipe was provided to us as a media sample by the producer for review purposes. We were not compensated for this video, and our opinions remain entirely our own. All other items in this video were purchased by us. 

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