Your Bourbon Journey

Penelope Estate 2025 Releases: Founders Reserve 13YR & Private Select 10YR!

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🚨 PENELOPE BOURBON ALERT! 🚨 

We’ve got our hands on two of the most anticipated releases from the 2025 Penelope Estate Collection! This is a must-watch bourbon review as we put the new Penelope Founders Reserve 13 Year side-by-side with the Penelope Private Select 10 Year.

Which one is the ultimate Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey? The high-proof, limited edition collector’s bottle or the award-winning, everyday sipper? Find out in our in-depth whiskey tasting!

Click play ▶️ now to join the tasting!

PENELOPE PRIVATE SELECT 10 YEAR: The highly-anticipated 2025 Private Select is here, and it’s aged a full 10 years! This blended bourbon is a masterful blend of hand-selected stocks, bottled at a robust 106.8 proof (53.4% ABV). Tasting Notes: Rich caramel, cinnamon, red fruits, brown sugar, cherry, baking spice, vanilla honey bun, oak spice, light smoke.

PENELOPE FOUNDERS RESERVE 13 YEAR: This single lot of Founders Reserve 13 Year is a testament to time and patience! Bottled at a powerful cask strength of 121.4 proof (60.7% ABV), this is a truly special bourbon for the collector. Tasting Notes: Rich caramel, vanilla, faint tobacco, candied fruit, toasted nuts, graham cracker, sweet oak, butterscotch, dark fruit, lingering spice, black pepper.

👇 What’s your favorite Penelope release Let us know in the comments below! 👇

Are you a true bourbon fanatic, always on the hunt for the next exceptional pour? Then smash that like button 👍 to show your appreciation for fine whiskey!  Hit subscribe 🔔 so you never miss our reviews of rare and remarkable spirits, and share this video ➡️ with your fellow whiskey lovers. Let’s build a community of enthusiasts who appreciate the art of exceptional bourbon! 

#PenelopeBourbon #PenelopeFoundersReserve #PenelopePrivateSelect #CaskStrengthBourbon #KentuckyBourbon #WhiskeyCollector #BourbonReview #WhiskeyTasting 

❌YOUR BOURBON JOURNEY DOES NOT SELL ALCOHOL❌

✴️ Penelope Private Select 2025

  • Classification: Blend of Straight Bourbon Whiskey
  • Company: Luxco
  • Distillery: Undisclosed
  • Mash Bill: 74% Corn, 20% Rye, 1% Wheat, 5% Malted Barley
  • Age: 10 Years
  • Proof: 106.8
  • Released: 09/05/2025
  • Purchased: 09/05/2025 for $99.99 at Lux Row Distillery in Bardstown, KY

✴️ Penelope Founders Reserve 2025

  • Classification: Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
  • Company: Luxco
  • Distillery: Undisclosed
  • Mash Bill: 78% Corn, 10% Rye, 12% Malted Barley
  • Age: 13 Years
  • Proof: 121.4
  • Released: 09/05/2025
  • Other: Char 3, Heavy Toast
  • Purchased: 09/05/2025 for $89.99 at Lux Row Distillery in Bardstown, KY

❌YOUR BOURBON JOURNEY DOES NOT SELL ALCOHOL❌

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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.

Top Secret Whiskeys: A Blind Barrels Exclusive!

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Blind Barrels XV “Inception”

Get ready for a thrilling taste adventure 🚀 into the shadowy world of Blind Barrels! 🕵️‍♂️ In this episode, we’re plunging headfirst into the unknown, blind tasting 👀 and dissecting FOUR ENIGMATIC MYSTERY WHISKEYS! 🥃🥃🥃🥃 Can our palates decipher their secrets? 🤔

Join us as we become whiskey detectives 🔎, meticulously sniffing👃, swirling 🔄, and savoring 😋 each anonymous dram. We’ll delve deep into their intriguing flavor profiles and captivating aromas ✨, piecing together the clues 🧩 to uncover what makes each one truly unique.

The anticipation is building! ⏳ Will we correctly identify their origins? 🌍 Which hidden gem 💎 will steal our hearts (and our taste buds 👅)? And ultimately… which mysterious whiskey will rise above the rest and claim the coveted top spot 🏆 in our ranking?

Prepare for unexpected twists 😲, surprising revelations 🎉, and maybe even a few gasps of delight! 😮 You might just discover your next favorite pour lurking within these blind barrels. Hit play ▶️ now and join the mystery! 😉

Are you as passionate about whiskey as we are? Show us some love by giving this video a thumbs up 👍, hitting that subscribe button 🔔 so you’re always first to know about the most exciting whiskey releases, and sharing this with your fellow enthusiasts and tasting buddies! ➡️

To learn more about a Subscription to Blind Barrels, this is our Affiliate Link (commissions can be earned): Blind Barrels Subscription

#blindtasting  #bourbontasting  #whiskeytasting 

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NOTE: We were not compensated by the spirit producers or Blind Barrels for this review. This is simply our opinion based on what we tasted on this day. Please drink responsibly.

This Black Walnut Manhattan Is The Ultimate Upgrade

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🥃 Black Walnut Roost: The Ultimate Chicken Cock Bourbon Manhattan

In Thirsty Thursday Cocktails – Episode 39: The Black Walnut Roost Cocktail, you will learn to elevate your cocktail game with The Black Walnut Roost, a sophisticated and robust Manhattan specifically crafted to showcase the exceptional character of Chicken Cock Private Cask Single Barrel #10. 

This isn’t your average cocktail—it’s a celebration of bold proof, rich cherry, warm vanilla, and that signature unique nuttiness found in this outstanding bourbon.

If you love classic cocktails and are looking for a new twist, this recipe is a must-try. The addition of Black Walnut Bitters perfectly complements the whiskey’s profile, adding layers of complexity that make this drink truly special. It’s the perfect bourbon cocktail for sipping slowly.

📝 Recipe: Black Walnut Roost

  • 2 oz Chicken Cock Private Cask Single Barrel Bourbon
  • 1 oz Sweet Vermouth
  • 3 dashes Black Walnut Bitters
  • Garnish: Luxardo Cherry

Ready to mix up this cocktail masterpiece? ➡️ Watch now to see exactly how to make the Black Walnut Roost and impress your friends with your home bartending skills!

🔔 If you enjoyed this Manhattan recipe and want more whiskey cocktails, hit that Subscribe button and ring the notification bell so you don’t miss our next video!

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Cheers to better drinks! 🥂

#BlackWalnutRoost #ChickenCockBourbon #ManhattanCocktail #BourbonCocktails #SingleBarrelWhiskey #CocktailRecipe #BlackWalnutBitters #ClassicCocktails #HomeBartender #WhiskeyLover

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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.

The ULTIMATE Barrel Proof! Chicken Cock Private Cask Review

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Get Ready for a 🚀High-Proof 🐓Rooster Ride! 🥃 In this epic whiskey review, we’re diving deep into a truly special bottle: the Chicken Cock Private Cask Single Barrel #10 Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey!

Join us as we uncork, nose, taste, and break down every aspect of this incredible barrel-proof bourbon. This isn’t just any Chicken Cock; it’s Barrel #10, barreled in March 2020 and bottled in July 2025, clocking in at a mighty 5 Years, 4 Months of age and a scorching 125.28 Proof! 🐔🔥

What makes this bottle so unique? 

This particular single barrel is a prime example of the “first distillate” crafted for Chicken Cock by Master Distiller Gregg Snyder through their collaboration with Bardstown Bourbon Company (BBCo). Stored in Rickhouse F, this barrel strength bourbon showcases the iconic 70% Corn, 21% Rye, 9% Malted Barley mash bill at its purest, most undiluted form.

If you’re a fan of barrel proof whiskey, craft bourbon, or hunting for those rare private selection bourbons, this review is a must-watch! We’ll explore the rich history of Chicken Cock Whiskey and the exciting future of its Bardstown, KY distillery operations.

So grab your favorite glass, settle in, and let’s explore this bourbon together! Click play ▶️ NOW!

👇 What’s your favorite release of Chicken Cock Whiskey? Let us know in the comments below! 👇

Are you a true bourbon fanatic, always on the hunt for the next exceptional pour? Then smash that like button 👍 to show your appreciation for fine whiskey! Hit subscribe 🔔 so you never miss our reviews of rare and remarkable spirits, and share this video ➡️ with your fellow whiskey lovers. Let’s build a community of enthusiasts who appreciate the art of exceptional bourbon! 

#ChickenCockWhiskey #PrivateCask #SingleBarrelBourbon #BarrelProof #KentuckyBourbon #WhiskeyReview #BourbonReview #HighProofWhiskey #CraftSpirits #BardstownBourbonCompany #BBCo #RareBourbon #WhiskeyTube #SpiritsReview #BourbonHunter #WhiskeyLife #RickhouseF #GreggSnyder #AmericanWhiskey #WhiskeyTasting

❌YOUR BOURBON JOURNEY DOES NOT SELL ALCOHOL❌

✴️ Chicken Cock Private Cask Single Barrel

  • Classification: Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
  • Company: Grain & Barrel Spirits
  • Distillery: For Chicken Cock via Bardstown Bourbon Company’s collaborative distillation program.
  • Master Distiller: Gregg Snyder
  • Mash Bill: 70% Corn, 21% Rye, 9% Malted Barley
  • Age: 5 Years, 4 Months
  • Proof: 125.28
  • MSRP: $90
  • Released: Bottled 07/2025 – Distillery Exclusive
  • Other: Barrel No. 10, Barreled 03/2020; Rickhouse F
  • Provided to us: 09/02/25 at the Chicken Cock Tasting Room, Bardstown KY

❌YOUR BOURBON JOURNEY DOES NOT SELL ALCOHOL❌

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NOTE: The spirit in this review was provided to us. However, 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.

Kentucky’s Craft Western Trail: Dueling Grounds Stop

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Bourbon Trail Tales & Tastes Episode 40 – Dueling Grounds Distillery

Get ready for an adventure down the Kentucky Bourbon Trail as we revisit a nice stop in Franklin, Kentucky in April 2023.  In this episode, we’re taking you back to our first visit to Dueling Grounds Distillery which was our 45th distillery and our 37th stamp in our Kentucky Bourbon Trail Book! Plus – we finished the Craft Western Trail.

Join us as we relive every moment from our initial tour of the Dueling Grounds Distillery. But the excitement doesn’t stop there! We’ll then uncork a bottle of their Linkumpinch Single Barrel Cask Strength for an in-depth tasting. What hidden notes and unique flavors await us in this one-of-a-kind pour? 

Click play ▶️ now to join the adventure!

Join the YBJ Family! 

👍 Like this video if you’re a bourbon lover! 

💬 Comment below with your favorite Dueling Grounds Distillery whiskey! 

➡️ Share this video with a fellow whiskey fan! 

🔔 Subscribe to Your Bourbon Journey for weekly whiskey adventures you won’t want to miss!

********

What’s a bourbon trail journey without a good story? 🥃 Welcome to Bourbon Trail Tales & Tastes, where we dive into the unforgettable moments and hidden gems we discovered while exploring Kentucky’s iconic trail. Join us as we uncork the profound memories that have stayed with us long after the last pour. We’ll revisit the unexpected finds and the bottles that truly surprised us with their exceptional, intricate flavors. So, what stood out as the most memorable sip, and how have those experiences shaped our palates today? Get ready for a passionate retelling of the adventures, the connections, and the spirits that make the Bourbon Trail so much more than just a destination.

#KentuckyBourbonTrail #DuelingGrounds #LinkumpinchBourbon 

❌YOUR BOURBON JOURNEY DOES NOT SELL ALCOHOL❌

ABOUT THE BOTTLE REVIEWED

✴️ Linkumpinch Single Barrel Cask Strength

  • Classification: Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
  • Distillery: Dueling Grounds Distillery
  • Mash Bill: 66% Yellow Dent Corn, 22% Red Winter Wheat, 12% Malted 2-row Barley
  • Age: 4 Years
  • Proof: 120.5
  • Other: Barrel 87
  • Purchased: 04/22/23 for $72.50 at Dueling Grounds in Franklin, 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.

Bardstown Triple Threat: NEW Bourbons REVIEWED!

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🥃 BARDSTOWN BOURBON COMPANY TRIPLE THREAT TASTING! 🥃

We’re diving deep into the latest and most innovative releases from Bardstown Bourbon Company in one epic review! From double-barreled bourbon to cognac-finished rye and a Japanese Mizunara oak masterpiece, which bottle takes the crown?

Featured Whiskeys:

1️⃣  Maison Ferrand Collaboration (2025): French Elegance Meets Kentucky Spice

The highly anticipated second collaboration with France’s Maison Ferrand! This limited-edition blend of Kentucky Bourbon and RYE is finished for 15 months in premium Ferrand Cognac Casks. The rye adds a new layer of spice and structure to the award-winning (Double Gold at SF World Spirits Competition!) profile. Is this the best finished whiskey of the year?

2️⃣ Hokkaido Mizunara Oak Barrel Finish: The Rare Japanese Masterpiece

An extraordinary journey from Kentucky to the remote forests of Japan! This Distillery Reserve small-batch blend of 9- to 18-year-old aged whiskeys spent an incredible 28 months finishing in rare Japanese Mizunara Oak barrels. Expect a bold, exotic, and spicy profile unlike any other.

3️⃣ Discovery #13: The Double-Barreled Legend

The first-ever double-barreled expression in the acclaimed Discovery Series! This Kentucky Straight Bourbon is aged 8 to 15 years and split for a complex secondary finish in both new American White Oak (for classic vanilla) and rare Hungarian Oak (for baking spice, coffee, and mocha). Master Blender Dan Callaway calls it a showcase of “innovation and tradition.” 

What did we think? Watch the video to get our full review, final score, and see how these three incredible, finished whiskeys stack up!

So grab your favorite glass, settle in, and let’s explore this bourbon together! Click play ▶️ NOW!

👇 What’s your favorite Bardstown release Let us know in the comments below! 👇

Are you a true bourbon fanatic, always on the hunt for the next exceptional pour? Then smash that like button 👍 to show your appreciation for fine whiskey! Hit subscribe 🔔 so you never miss our reviews of rare and remarkable spirits, and share this video ➡️ with your fellow whiskey lovers. Let’s build a community of enthusiasts who appreciate the art of exceptional bourbon! 

#BardstownBourbon #Discovery13 #FerrandCollaboraation #BourbonReview #LimitedRelease #DiscoverySeries #MaisonFerrand #CognacFinish #MizunaraOak  #KentuckyBourbon #FinishedWhiskey #WhiskeyTube #NewRelease #BardstownBourbonCompany #BBCo

❌YOUR BOURBON JOURNEY DOES NOT SELL ALCOHOL❌

✴️ Discovery #13

  • Classification: Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
  • Distillery: Bardstown Bourbon Company
  • Mash Bill: See above
  • Age: youngest is 8 years
  • Proof: 110.8
  • Released: 08/29/25
  • Secondary Finish: (4 months) 61 percent of final blend finished in new American White Oak; 39 percent of final blend finished in Hungarian Oak
  • Purchased: 08/31/25 for $139.99 at Bardstown Bourbon Company, Bardstown KY

✴️ Ferrand Cognac Finish

  • Classification: Blended Straight Whiskey
  • Distillery: Bardstown Bourbon Company
  • Mash Bill: See above
  • Age: youngest is 6 years
  • Proof: 107
  • Released: 08/29/25
  • Secondary Finish: (15 months) Maison Ferrand Cognac casks
  • Purchased: 08/31/25 for $139.99 at Bardstown Bourbon Company, Bardstown KY

✴️ Hokkaido Mizunara Oak Barrel Finish

  • Classification: Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
  • Distillery: Bardstown Bourbon Company
  • Mash Bill: 
  • Age: 
  • Proof: 109.3
  • Released: July 11, 2025
  • Other: 375 ml bottle
  • Purchased: 09/03/25 for $99.99 at Bardstown Bourbon Company, Bardstown KY

❌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.

Rethink Rye: The Smoked “Cherry Hearth” Cocktail

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Thirsty Thursday Cocktails – Episode 38: The “Cherry Hearth” Cocktail

Unleash a new level of whiskey enjoyment with The “Cherry Hearth” Cocktail! 🥃✨

In this exclusive video, we craft a truly unforgettable drink featuring the highly sought-after Castle & Key Restoration Rye 2022 Single Barrel. Known for its nuanced character, this Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey is the perfect foundation for our innovative cherry wood smoked cocktail.

The “Cherry Hearth” marries the robust spirit of the rye with the sweet, deep notes of premium cherry liqueur, a touch of honey for balance, and lovely Cherry bitters. But the real magic happens with a kiss of cherry wood smoke, infusing every sip with an alluring, earthy sweetness that perfectly complements the whiskey’s profile.

Whether you’re a seasoned whiskey enthusiast or looking to elevate your home bar game, this smoked cocktail recipe is a must-try. We’ll guide you through each step, from stirring the perfect blend to achieving that captivating cherry smoke infusion with your cocktail smoker.

The “Cherry Hearth” Cocktail Ingredients:

  • Castle & Key Restoration Rye 2022 Single Barrel
  • High-Quality Cherry Liqueur (Luxardo Maraschino)
  • Honey Simple Syrup
  • Cherry Bitters
  • Cherry Wood Chips for your smoker

Why you’ll love it:

  • Showcases the incredible Castle & Key Restoration Rye
  • Unique and sophisticated smoked whiskey cocktail
  • Perfect balance of rye, sweet cherry, and aromatic smoke
  • An impressive drink for any occasion or a relaxing evening

Don’t miss out on this incredible recipe! Click Play Now ➡️

👍 If you loved this recipe, give us a thumbs up! 

💬 Share your thoughts and favorite cocktail twists in the comments! 

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Cheers to better drinks! 🥂

#SmokedCocktail #CastleAndKey #RestorationRye #WhiskeyCocktail #CraftCocktails #HomeBar #Mixology #CocktailRecipe #CherrySmoke #WhiskeyLover #Drinkstagram #CocktailSmoker #BourbonAlternative #KentuckyRye #SingleBarrel #Luxardo #HoneyCocktail #RyeWhiskey #CherryBitters 

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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 & Whiskey News: September 2025

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10/01/25
Curated by Rebecca Herman McBrayer

Bourbon & Whiskey Industry Highlights from September 2025 >> 43 Stories!

In September 2025, the bourbon and whiskey industry saw significant developments, including 43 stories on market news, distillery highlights, and bottle releases. Key events included new distillery openings, prestigious awards, and notable bottle launches, such as the 2025 Pappy Van Winkle collection and innovative releases from various distilleries across Kentucky.

Industry Market News & Related Announcements >> 2 Stories

09/11: Global Bourbon Market Size, Share, Forecasts 2023 – 2033

09/15: World whisky: from global gloom to local boom

Distillery News >> 9 Stories

09/03: Nashville Barrel Co plans Kentucky distillery

09/05: Heaven Hill Commemorates Opening of New Distillery

09/08: This 29-Acre Farm Distillery Is Embracing the Terroir of Montgomery County

09/11: Inside the new Heaven Hill Springs Distillery

09/15: Uncle Nearest Whiskey Under Federal Receivership

09/23: Kentucky distillery bounces back from massive flood that briefly halted bourbon production

09/25: Diageo pauses production at two US distilleries

09/25: Kentucky Distillers’ Association Welcomes Dark Arts Whiskey House As Newest Member

09/29: Buffalo Trace Distillery fills its 9 millionth barrel since Prohibition

Distillery Trail >> 3 Stories

09/03: KDA Adds Purple Toad Winery & Distillery as Craft Member

09/10: Von Payne Spirits to Transform Historic Louisville Bakery into Distillery and Tasting Destination

09/24: 7 Bourbon Trail Mistakes Almost Everyone Makes, According To A Bourbon Butler

Awards Announced >> 4 Stories

09/05: America’s Best Bourbon, According To The 2025 IWSC

09/05: Starlight Distillery wins award at Heartland Whiskey Competition

09/12: American Bourbon Back on Top: Four Bourbons Win Highest Gold at IWSC 2025

09/17: Kentucky Bourbon Hall of Fame Inducts 2025 Class

Bourbon Festival News & Updates >> 1 Story

09/25: Ohio Craft Whiskey Festival returns with record 23 distilleries

Bottle Releases >> 23 Stories

09/01: Log Still Distillery Launches Remington Reserve

09/02: Limestone Branch Distillery collaborates with Ross & Squibb Distillery on 2025 release of Yellowstone Limited Edition

09/02: Rabbit Hole Regallier Showcases French Oak Finish

09/02: Heaven Hill Returns To Bardstown With Master Distillers Unity Bourbon

09/03: Barrel Global Partners with Award-Winning Middle West Spirits To Offer Old Elk Wheated Bourbon New-Fill Single Barrels

09/03: Jackson Purchase Bourbon ‘Batch No. 1’ to Debut at KY Bourbon Festival

09/03: Milam & Greene Launches Provisions Bourbon

09/03: The Ingram Distillery Ventures into the Unknown with New Wheated Bourbon: Uncharted

09/05: Angel’s Envy Just Unveiled a Pair of Unusual Limited-Edition Whiskeys

09/09: Woodford Reserve 2025 Master’s Collection Revealed

09/09: 2XO Whiskey Launches White Oak Rye, Renowned Blender Dixon Dedman’s First Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey Release

09/09: Beam Releases Booker’s The Reserves 2025 Edition

09/11: Garrison Brothers to Releases Sonora Bourbon in October

09/11: Pappy Van Winkle 2025 Bourbon Collection Has Launched

09/11: 2XO Debuts White Oak Rye Whiskey With 95% Rye Mash

09/16: Elijah Craig Launches Its First Ever Barrel Proof Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey

09/17: This new Milam & Greene bourbon is a collector’s dream

09/17: Sagamore releases its oldest rye whiskey

09/17: Southern Distilling Releases its First Single Malt

09/18: 1792 Bourbon Welcomes Cognac Cask Finish To Its Portfolio

09/23: Wild Turkey Announces Master’s Keep Beacon, the Final Release in the Celebrated Series

09/24: Dierks Bentley Releases ROW 94 Full Proof Bourbon

09/24: Booker’s Bourbon Releases Jerry’s Batch to Honor Non-Family Master Distiller

Book Releases >> 1

09/09: The Whiskey Bible: A Definitive Guide to the World’s Most Storied Spirit” by Noah Rothbaum

Touring Castle & Key: Bourbon History Reborn at Old Taylor

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Bourbon Trail Tales & Tastes Episode 39 – Castle & Key Distillery

Get ready for an adventure down the Kentucky Bourbon Trail as we revisit a nice stop in Frankfort, Kentucky in April 2023.  In this episode, we’re taking you back to our very first visit to Castle & Key Distillery which was our 43rd distillery and our 35th stamp in our Kentucky Bourbon Trail Book! Plus – we finished the Craft Bluegrass Trail.

Join us as we relive every moment from our initial tour of the Castle & Key Distillery . But the excitement doesn’t stop there! We’ll then uncork a bottle of their Restoration Rye 2022 Single Barrel for an in-depth tasting. What hidden notes and unique flavors await us in this one-of-a-kind pour? 

Click play ▶️ now to join the adventure!

Join the YBJ Family! 

👍 Like this video if you’re a bourbon lover! 

💬 Comment below with your favorite Castle & Key Distillery whiskey! 

➡️ Share this video with a fellow whiskey fan! 

🔔 Subscribe to Your Bourbon Journey for weekly whiskey adventures you won’t want to miss!

What’s a bourbon trail journey without a good story? 🥃 Welcome to Bourbon Trail Tales & Tastes, where we dive into the unforgettable moments and hidden gems we discovered while exploring Kentucky’s iconic trail. Join us as we uncork the profound memories that have stayed with us long after the last pour. We’ll revisit the unexpected finds and the bottles that truly surprised us with their exceptional, intricate flavors. So, what stood out as the most memorable sip, and how have those experiences shaped our palates today? Get ready for a passionate retelling of the adventures, the connections, and the spirits that make the Bourbon Trail so much more than just a destination.

#KentuckyBourbonTrail #CastleAndKey #RestorationRye #bourbontrail #RyeWhiskey #SingleBarrel #WhiskeyReview #KentuckyWhiskey #CastleAndKeyDistillery #FrankfortKY #DistilleryTour #whiskeytasting 

❌YOUR BOURBON JOURNEY DOES NOT SELL ALCOHOL❌

ABOUT THE BOTTLE REVIEWED

✴️ Restoration Rye 2022 Single Barrel

  • Classification: Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey
  • Distillery: Castle & Key Distillery
  • Mash Bill: 63% Rye, 20% Malted Barley, 17% Yellow Corn
  • Age: 3
  • Proof: 115.8
  • Released: 2022
  • Other: Barrel 3027; Bottle 218
  • Purchased: 04/16/23 for $70 at Castle & Key Distillery

❌YOUR BOURBON JOURNEY DOES NOT SELL ALCOHOL❌

🚨REMEMBER TO ALWAYS DRINK RESPONSIBLY🚨

✅ Please SUBSCRIBE and hit the LIKE button!

❓Questions❓ YourBourbonJourney@gmail.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.

Booker’s Tequila vs. Hardin’s Creek Warehouse R

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🤯 Tequila vs. Terroir! Jim Beam Double Review! Booker’s Reserve 2025 (Tequila Finish) & Hardin’s Creek Warehouse R (Mushroom)

Wayne and Rebecca from Your Bourbon Journey are diving into a Jim Beam double whiskey review that pits a high-proof, experimental finish against a unique exploration of aging terroir! 🥃 We snagged both the Hardin’s Creek Warehouse R (The Mushroom) and the Booker’s Reserve 2025 Tequila Finish at the exclusive Kentucky Bourbon Festival’s Bourbon in the Air event!

Hardin’s Creek Warehouse R (The Mushroom): Jim Beam’s Warehouse Series is a fascinating study in whiskey terroir, with three 11-year-old bourbons aged on different warehouse floors (Floor 1, 5, 9). We picked up Warehouse R (Floor 1), known as “The Mushroom” for its cool, damp aging environment and supposedly earthy profile. Did the 110-proof ‘Mushroom’ deliver? Spoiler: One of us got straight-up “dirt” notes! 🍄 Find out our honest review and why we think Jim Beam missed an opportunity with their marketing and transparency for this $150 bottle.

Jim Beam Booker’s Reserve 2025 (Tequila Finish): Is a tequila-finished bourbon any good? We were nervous! This 123.3-proof special release (Batch 2025) was finished in barrels that previously held a limited-edition tequila. Is it a bold experiment or a masterful blend? Join us as we explore the agave, caramel, creamy mouthfeel, and classic Booker’s peanut notes! If you love high-proof bourbon and are curious about barrel finishes, this is a must-watch. We’ll tell you why we bought two! 👀

So grab your favorite glass, settle in, and let’s explore this bourbon together! Click play ▶️ NOW!

👇 What’s your favorite Jim Beam releases? Let us know in the comments below! 👇

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❌YOUR BOURBON JOURNEY DOES NOT SELL ALCOHOL❌

✴️ Booker’s The Reserves (2025 Release)

  • Classification: Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
  • Company: Suntory Global
  • Distillery: James B Beam
  • Mash Bill: 77% Corn, 13% Rye, 10% Malted Barley
  • Age: 8 Years, 10 months, 11 days
  • Proof: 123.3
  • Released: September 2025
  • Other: Finished in 85th Anniversary El Tesoro Tequila Barrels
  • Purchased: 09/04/25 for $135 at Jim Beam via KBF

✴️ Hardin’s Creek 2025 Warehouse R, Floor 1

  • Classification: Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
  • Company: Suntory Global
  • Distillery: James B Beam
  • Mash Bill: 77% Corn, 13% Rye, 10% Malted Barley
  • Age: 11 years
  • Proof: 110
  • Released: September 2025
  • Other: Warehouse R, First Floor
  • Purchased: 09/04/25 for $150 at Jim Beam via KBF

❌YOUR BOURBON JOURNEY DOES NOT SELL ALCOHOL❌

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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.