Bourbon Barrel Blurbs, Volume 02, Issue 22

Welcome to Bourbon Barrel Blurbs, your ultimate source for all things whiskey! Whether you're a seasoned whiskey aficionado or just beginning your journey into the world of bourbon, this blog is here to satiate your thirst for knowledge and updates in the whiskey industry. We'll be serving up a tantalizing blend of news, reviews, and stories from the finest distilleries worldwide, keeping you informed on the latest releases, collaborations, and celebrations in the whiskey realm. So, grab your favorite tumbler, pour yourself a dram, and join us as we delve into the captivating world of bourbon. Cheers!

 

Barrels & Billets Joins Kentucky Distillers’ Association

The Kentucky Distillers’ Association (KDA) has welcomed Barrels & Billets in Jefferson County as its 54th distilling member. The distillery, owned by Hillerich & Bradsby Co., offers a hands-on, interactive Bourbon experience to the public. Visitors can create their own custom Bourbon blend using six different wood-finished Bourbons. The distillery is part of the H&B campus in downtown Louisville, along with the Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory and The Skybox event space.

Barrels & Billets specializes in wood finishing techniques for its Bourbons, including Lucky Lumber Easy Drinking Bourbon, Lead Off Rich & Complex Bourbon, Smokin’ Fastball Smoked Bourbon, and the luxury brand J. Frederick Three Wood Bourbon, which pays homage to the company's history of selling barrels for aging Bourbon. Learn more at https://barrelsandbillets.com/.

Joining as a "Craft" level member, aging between 0 and 10,000 barrels per year, Barrels & Billets is excited to contribute to the thriving Kentucky Bourbon industry. The KDA President, Eric Gregory, praised the addition of Barrels & Billets to downtown Louisville's Museum Row district and expressed excitement about continuing to strengthen Kentucky's position as the home of Bourbon.

Honoring a Hero with "Devil Dog" Bourbon

The limited edition bourbon "Devil Dog" has been introduced to honor Marine Lance Cpl. Jared Schmitz, who died during the U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan. The bourbon, produced by Art of the Spirits distillery, features a label with Lance Cpl. Schmitz's image is sold exclusively at the Beer Sauce shop in St. Peters. All proceeds from the sales will support The Freedom 13 charity, founded by Jared's father, Mark Schmitz, with the mission to build retreat villages for veterans in each state. The first village is planned for Missouri. The bourbon is priced at $199 per bottle, and only 282 bottles were produced, with each bottle numbered. The money raised will help support veterans and their families, providing them with recreational activities free of charge. As of Tuesday night, fewer than 250 bottles of the bourbon were still available for purchase.

East Meets West: Legent Yamazaki Cask Finish Blend

Photo: Beam Suntory

Beam Suntory, the owner of James B. Beam Distilling Co. in Kentucky and Japan's House of Suntory, has collaborated to create a unique whiskey called Legent Yamazaki Cask Finish Blend. This bourbon is distilled in Kentucky and then shipped to Japan, where it is finished and blended by fifth-generation chief blender for Suntory, Shinji Fukuyo. The process involves aging the bourbon in French oak wine casks, Spanish oak sherry barrels, and sherry casks previously used for aging Yamazaki single malt. The result is a first-of-its-kind whiskey with rounded and complex flavors. The release coincides with Suntory's 100th-anniversary celebration. Bottled at 57% ABV, Legent Yamazaki Cask Finish Blend is available for a limited time in the U.S. with a suggested retail price of $200.

Barrell Craft Spirits: A Symphony of Whiskey Blending

Photo: Barrell Craft Spirits

Barrell Craft Spirits (BCS) has introduced two new whiskeys: Barrell Bourbon Batch 035 and Rye Batch 004. The bourbon is a blend of six- and seven-year-old high-rye, high-proof barrels, combined with eight-year-old softer barrels, and further enhanced with 13-year-old barrels with dominant fruit flavors. The resulting blend is bottled at cask strength (116.24 proof). The rye is a blend of straight rye whiskeys from different locations, aged between 5 to 14 years, with a mash bill of rye, corn, and malted barley. This blend offers a fruit-forward profile and is also bottled at cask strength (115.7 proof). Both whiskeys are available for purchase online and in select retailers at a suggested retail price of $89.99 per 750-ml bottle. BCS, known for its unique blending techniques, aims to maintain transparency and inform consumers about its products through new back labels. These releases follow BCS's previous launches of Barrell Bourbon Batch 34 and Barrell Craft Spirits Private Release Rye Whiskey.

2nd Annual Bourbon & Blues Festival Set For August 19

Photo: Linn County Blues Society

Cedar Ridge and the Linn County Blues Society are organizing the second annual Bourbon and Blues Festival, set to take place on August 19, 2023, at the McGrath Amphitheatre. The festival celebrates the blues in the area and raises funds for various beneficiaries, including the HD Youth Center, KCCK and Blues in the Schools, Eastern Iowa Arts Academy, and the Community Health Free Clinic.

The festival lineup includes three award-winning blues artists: Shemekia Copeland, Sugaray Rayford, and Mr. Sipp. Tickets are available for purchase at $35 in advance and $40 at the gate on the day of the show. Children under 12 can attend for free with a paid adult ticket.

Food and beverages will be available for purchase at the event, and attendees are encouraged to bring their own chairs or blankets for seating. The organizers hope to grow the festival into a multi-day event attracting blues enthusiasts from across the Midwest.

Rescue Ranch Hosting Boots, Buckles & Bourbon

Photo: Rescue Ranch website

Rescue Ranch is hosting the Boots, Buckles & Bourbon dinner presented by Outback Steakhouse on August 26 from 7-10 p.m. at The Preserve at Southern Distilling Company in Statesville. Tickets are priced at $150 and include dinner, drinks, live music, a silent auction, raffles, animal meet and greets, and more. The event's proceeds will support Rescue Ranch's mission, which focuses on promoting animal respect through education, conservation efforts, and responsible pet ownership. Sponsorship opportunities are available. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit the rescueranch.com website or check their social media pages.

Stem Ciders Adds to Bourbon Series

Photo: Stem Ciders' website

Stem Ciders is known for its experimental and innovative flavors, and its latest addition to the Bourbon Series is the Manhattan cider. A precise representation of the classic cocktail, this cider is aged for 10 months in various bourbon barrels and infused with vermouth-like herbs, luxardo cherries, and vanilla essence. The result is a cider that perfectly captures the essence of the Manhattan cocktail, with notes of vermouth, cherry preserves, and toasted oak.

The Bourbon Series also includes the Banjo cider, the base of the range, which is aged in bourbon barrels and offers a dry profile with toffee and caramel flavors. Lastly, there's a cider inspired by the Old Fashioned, aged in bourbon barrels and blended with orange zest, luxardo cherries, and bitters-inspired spices, creating a cider with complex flavors of orange marmalade, baking spices, and vanilla caramels.

Stem Ciders' Bourbon Series is available at Stem Ciders RiNo, Ghost Box Pizza, and Acreage.

 

Innovative Spirits: Highline Spirits

Photo: Highline Spirits' website

Highline Spirits is a new spirits brand founded by Christi Lower, a former pediatric surgery PA, mother of four, and whiskey enthusiast. The company aims to challenge traditional norms in the spirits industry and create unique small-batch spirits with diverse representations. Highline Spirits has four flagship products, including Bourbon Whiskey, Triple Rye Whiskey, Straight Kentucky Whiskey, and American Whiskey. The brand is currently available in Michigan and online. Highline Spirits plans to open tasting rooms in Michigan and has a significant stock of aged barrels for future production.

Templeton Distillery Introduces a New Tequila Cask Finish

Photo: TTB website

Templeton Distillery has introduced a new limited-release Tequila Cask Finish as part of their cask finish series. The whiskey is initially matured in new American oak barrels for at least 6 years and then finished in Tequila Corralejo 99,000 horas Extra Anejo barrels for 3-6 months. The Tequila Cask Finish is release No. 5 in the series and is highly anticipated by industry professionals. Only 4,200 cases will be produced globally, making it a sought-after and limited edition. The collaboration between Templeton Distillery and Tequila Corralejo was inspired by their shared traditions and community values. The resulting whiskey is 92 proof (46% ABV) and promises a unique flavor profile that balances Rye spice with Agave sweetness.

Heaven Hill Distillery Fills Its 10 Millionth Barrel

Photo: Heaven Hill Distillery website

Heaven Hill Distillery in Kentucky celebrates a significant achievement by filling its 10 millionth barrel of whiskey. The distillery, known for brands like Elijah Craig Bourbon and Evan Williams Bourbon, has over 2 million barrels aging in rickhouses across Nelson and Jefferson counties. The celebration comes after breaking ground on the $135 million Heaven Hill Springs Distillery, their return to Bardstown after a devastating fire in 1996. This milestone showcases Heaven Hill's enduring strength and legacy as the only family-owned and led spirits company to achieve this feat.

High West Invites You to Gather Around the Campfire

Photo: High West Distillery

High West Distillery is bringing back High West Campfire, a unique whiskey blend featuring scotch, bourbon, and rye aged for 4-8 years, bottled at 46% ABV. This year's batch includes 100% High West own-make rye whiskey. The whiskey offers aromas of grilled nectarine, smoked butterscotch, and chocolate-covered peanuts, with flavors of raspberry compote, hickory-smoked apple fritters, and salted caramels, and a finish resembling smoldering coals and brine. High West will donate $50,000 to the Wildland Firefighter Foundation as part of their "Protect the West" initiative. The limited expression is available for purchase with a suggested retail price of $79.99 per 750ml bottle.

Thank you for joining us on this spirited journey through the world of bourbon with Bourbon Barrel Blurbs. Our passion for this age-old craft drives us to continue sharing the latest updates and trends in the whiskey industry with you. Until our next barrel-blazing adventure, may your glass be filled with the finest spirits, and may your palate be ever eager to explore the next pour. Keep sipping and enjoying the wonderful world of bourbon. Until next time, may your spirits be high and your whiskey be top-shelf. Sláinte!

Bourbon Barrel Blurbs, Volume 02, Issue 19

In the ever-evolving world of whiskey, there is no shortage of exciting developments and innovations. Uncle Nearest Premium Whiskey, the most-awarded Bourbon and American Whiskey of recent years, is launching its highly sought-after Single Barrel Whiskey. They are conducting an online public vote called 'Single Barrel Showdown: America's Choice' to determine the first five states to receive the product in stores. The voting period runs until August 2nd, coinciding with the sixth anniversary of the brand's launch. Participants have a chance to win a trip to Tennessee. The winning states will receive the Single Barrel Whiskey first, just in time for September 5th. The whiskey has received numerous accolades and is hand-selected by hand-selected by Victoria Eady Butler, a four-time Master Blender of the Year, and the great-great-granddaughter of Nearest Green. It goes through a triple filtration process and is priced at $89.99.

Nelson's Green Brier Distillery has opened a new distillery restaurant in Marathon Village. The restaurant offers gourmet distillery-inspired cuisine with a refined twist on comfort food, reflecting Southern flavors and local influences. It features an impressive selection of Nelson's spirits and imaginative cocktails. The executive chef and hospitality team have curated a menu that strikes a balance between approachability and sophistication while celebrating the Nelson family heritage. The restaurant seats 100 guests and also offers private event spaces for booking. This establishment is part of a large-scale transformation of the distillery, with educational tours, expanded hospitality offerings, private event spaces, and other enhancements planned for completion by the end of summer.

Mile High Spirits, Denver's only fully operating urban distillery, is introducing four limited edition Fireside Whiskeys: Wheated Bourbon, Port Barrel Finish, Six-Year Single Barrel Bourbon, and Champions Select, chosen by the Colorado Avalanche after their 2022 Stanley Cup win. These whiskeys are made with locally sourced ingredients and aim to represent Denver's craft spirit culture. The Fireside Bourbon collection features complex flavors with notes of vanilla, campfire, chocolate, spices, toasted sugar, and toffee. The whiskeys can be pre-ordered and purchased at their Tasting Room, starting at $60 per bottle. To celebrate the release, Mile High Spirits is hosting a Fireside Release Party. The distillery is also known for producing other award-winning spirits and serving as a popular downtown nightlife and music venue.

The first bourbon barrel has been filled at the Western Kentucky Distilling Company's new Beaver Dam facility. This marks the beginning of significant whiskey production, with hundreds of thousands of barrels planned to be filled on-site. The bourbon is made in Kentucky from locally sourced corn and will be aged for at least four years. The Beaver Dam facility, which just recently opened, is Ohio County's first official distillery.

Maker's Mark, the iconic handmade Kentucky bourbon, has launched Star Hill Farm Experiences, a new series of visitor tours at its distillery in Loretto, Kentucky. These tours provide guests with a deeper understanding of the 1,100 acres of natural land where Maker's Mark Bourbon is crafted, including sustainability, agriculture, and research initiatives. The tours allow visitors to see the production process and participate in Maker's Mark's pursuit of flavor through nature. Three initial tour offerings include The Oak Experience, The Seasonal Star Hill Farm Tour, and The Maker's Mark Art and Design Tour. Additional experiences will be introduced regularly, reflecting the Kentucky seasons. For more information and bookings, visit the Maker's Mark website.

Spirit Hound Distillers is expanding in Colorado with the opening of a new tasting room in Denver's Highlands neighborhood. The address is 3622 Tejon Street, and visitors can enjoy craft cocktails made with special-release liquors, live music, trivia, and mixology nights. The venue will also feature a dog-friendly patio and a food menu with 'small nibblers'. Abby Robertson, Chief Commercialization Officer, expressed excitement about the opening, and CEO Brad Stevenson mentioned more future plans. The original tasting room in Lyons will continue to operate, and the Denver Tasting Room will have its grand opening celebration on August 4th.

15 STARS is expanding its fine-aged bourbon whiskey portfolio with the limited release of its award-winning Platinum expression. This 98-proof blend of straight bourbon whiskeys aged 18, 15, and 10 years pays homage to America's "First West" and is available in select retailers in Kentucky, Indiana, Tennessee, Missouri, Georgia, and Louisiana, as well as online through 15STARS.com. The Platinum expression has already received prestigious awards from various spirits competitions. It offers a luscious nose with maple, peanut brittle, candied orange, and lavender notes, a palate with layers of pastry, ginger, and honeycomb, and a finish of herbal spice, cigar box, and leather. Each bottle is topped with a classic metal stopper representing Kentucky's historic craftsmanship. Platinum is priced at $279.99 MSRP.

Shiner Bock beer, a well-known Texas icon, has expanded its offerings with a new distillery, K. Spoetzl Distilling Company. Head of Distilling Operations, Jessica Michalec, led the venture, inspired by the region's history of distilling during Prohibition. The distillery features a copper pot still and two rectifying columns from a Scottish still maker. All spirits start as Shiner beer, infusing the brewery's character into each batch. The vodka is distilled twice and passes through both columns, resulting in a smooth 190-proof spirit with sweet grain and vanilla notes. The London Dry-style gin undergoes a second distillation with botanicals like juniper and grapefruit peels. Shiner Shine, an unaged whiskey, is grain-forward and will be released as bourbon after maturing in oak barrels. The distillery plans to release more spirits, including rye whiskey and Scotch-style single malt. Shiner's spirits are currently available exclusively at their distillery in Shiner, Texas. Visitors can take a tour and enjoy cocktails on tap at the tasting room.

Manassas native, Pete Evick, music director for the Bret Michaels Band and author, has collaborated with Manassas craft distiller KO Distilling to release Bare Knuckle Evick Edition Bourbon. The bourbon is hand-crafted from 70% corn, 20% wheat, and 10% malted barley sourced from local Virginia farms and aged in charred new American Oak barrels from Kentucky. Bottled at 98 proof to represent the year Pete signed his first record deal and filled during his birth month of August, the bourbon holds personal significance. Pete signed all the bottles sold during the release at KO Distilling, where fans and family celebrated the Single Barrel bourbon featuring an image of Pete playing his guitar on the label. The Bare Knuckle Evick Edition Bourbon is priced at $62.99 for a 750mL bottle and will be available initially at the Distillery Store with shipping options for Virginia residents. Future Evick Edition Barrel Select bottles will be sold online for bourbon enthusiasts across the nation.

Ross & Squibb Distillery from Lawrenceburg, Indiana, has introduced Remus Highest Rye Straight Bourbon Whiskey as the latest extension of its Remus Bourbon brand family. Priced at $54.99 per 750ml bottle, this new offering is a permanent year-round line extension. Remus Highest Rye Bourbon is aged for six years and comes at 109 proof, featuring a mash bill with 51% corn, 39% rye, and 10% malted rye to emphasize the rye profile. The bourbon delivers a sweet and rich fruit aroma with maple notes and a palate that offers robust candied-fruit flavors, followed by a lingering finish with hints of spicy cinnamon and saddle leather. Ross & Squibb Distillery, formerly known as MGP, pays tribute to its rye tradition through this high-rye bourbon.

New Riff Distilling is introducing its Sour Mash Single Malt project, an innovative exploration of malted barley combined with the sour mash Kentucky whiskey-making process. The distillery began producing malt whiskey in 2014, and the first batch is set to debut in the fall. Inspired by Celtic tradition and Head Distiller Brian Sprance's brewing experience, the project aims to create a unique whiskey showcasing various malted barley varieties. New Riff has developed six different malt whiskey mashbills, including Golden Promise, Maris Otter, Chevallier Heirloom, peated Scottish barley, and two beer-inspired mashbills based on classic Barleywine and Belgian Quadrupel recipes. These whiskeys have matured in diverse barrels, such as new charred oak, red wine casks, and classic sherried oak casks. The core offering, a blend of five recipes, will be released in the fall of 2023 at cask strength and without chill filtration.

In conclusion, the world of whiskey continues to evolve with exciting new releases, innovative techniques, and a deep appreciation for tradition. From award-winning bourbons to craft distilleries pushing the boundaries of flavor, there's something for every whiskey enthusiast to discover and enjoy. So, raise your glass and savor the stories behind each bottle as you embark on a journey of taste and craftsmanship. Cheers to the world of whiskey and the endless possibilities it holds.

 

[Review] Shady Mile 21% Rye Bourbon

Once upon a time, the folks at Shady Mile Bourbon asked if I would be willing to sample their bourbon expressions? Of course I said sure. But after getting beaten down by life (see my Apology post), I eventually got around to sampling their wheated bourbon. Then, after dealing with more hospitalizations, health problems, and everything else, I realized I forgot to review their rye bourbon. All apologies to the fine folks at Shady Mile Bourbon. Despite the delay, I was determined to give an honest and thorough review of Shady Mile's rye expression. As I finally sat down to savor the long-awaited sample, I couldn't help but wonder if the extended wait would affect my perception of its flavors and nuances.

How Do I Review?

Now, before we get started, let me explain how I review bottles. I like what I like. I can detect different flavors and tastes but don't expect me to post a review saying I am “getting a slight hint of wet pavement with a bit of dried corn husk on an adobe wall” or something wild... I'll give you my honest impression, plain and simple, and there will be no sugarcoating. After all, I'm not Willy Wonka. Also, while I'm at it, let's get this disclaimer out of the way.

Disclaimer: Samples of the products reviewed were provided by the respective company for a no strings attached review.

With that out of the way, let's get on with the review.

---

Product: Shady Mile High Rye Bourbon
Company: Specialty Cellars
Classification: Straight Bourbon
Distillery: Green River Distillery (DSP-KY-10)
Proof: 90 (45% ABV)
Mashbill: 70% corn, 21% rye, 9% malted barley
Color: Medium amber
Price: ~$30
Method: Rested in a Glencairn for 20 minutes

Nose: The aromas on the nose are somewhat lacking. There are notes of black cherry, almonds, and honey, but they fail to completely stimulate the senses.

Palate: The taste sensation on the palate falls short of expectations. While there are some peppery spices, baker's chocolate, and sweet caramel corn flavors, they do not completely deliver on their potential.

Finish: While present, the finish is unremarkable. Additionally, the young age of the bourbon is evident in its flavor profile, indicating that it has not yet fully developed its potential.

Overall: Now, don’t get me wrong; despite my remarks, this is not a bad bourbon. The problem is that it’s just a young bourbon, and it tastes young as well. In my opinion, both of the Shady Mile Bourbon expressions could improve with a little more age, so I’m going to give this one a high two out of five.

I look forward to Shady Mile Bourbon's next release and the opportunity to try these expressions after they've matured a little.

Marianne Eaves Debuts Forbidden & James B. Beam Distilling Co. Introduces An American Single Malt Whiskey

Forbidden Bourbon by Master Distiller Marianne Eaves

Marianne Eaves, Kentucky's first female Master Distiller, has introduced Forbidden, the spirits industry's first white corn and white winter wheat expression of Kentucky bourbon. The bourbon is the result of nearly a decade of work by Eaves, who aimed to capture the essence of an elegant mature bourbon through nontraditional low-temperature fermentation. Forbidden Bourbon breaks new ground by using unconventional ingredients and techniques. The initial release is a small batch of 5-year-old bourbon with a sweet and smooth profile, featuring flavors of vanilla, caramel, citrus, and oak spice. It will be available in select states and online at a SRP of $129. The first release will include a highly allocated number of hand-blended bottles along with three single barrel cask strength expressions. Learn more at DrinkForbidden.com.

Clermont Steep™ American Single Malt Whiskey. Photo credit: Beam Suntory

In another development, James B. Beam Distilling Co. has entered the American Single Malt Whiskey category with the launch of Clermont SteepTM. Developed by Freddie Noe, 8th Generation Master Distiller, Clermont SteepTM is a five-year-old American Single Malt Whiskey distilled and aged in Clermont, Kentucky. Noe defined the guidelines for this emerging category, emphasizing the unique flavor of American malted barley. The whiskey showcases warm toffee sweetness and a bready taste. Clermont SteepTM marks a significant step for James B. Beam Distilling Co. as it explores this growing segment. The whiskey will be available in select states starting June 2023. Learn more HERE.

Bourbon Barrel Blurbs, Volume 01, Issue 15

I'm back with another BBB. This edition features blurbs on Remus Gatsby Reserve, High West, 2022 Van Winkle Collection, Garrison Brothers' 2022 Cowboy Bourbon, Knob Creek 18 Year Old Expression, Booking Kentucky Bourbon Trail Distillery Tours in Advance, and Company Distilling's First Limited Release.

Ross & Squibb Announces Remus Gatsby Reserve

Ross & Squibb Remus Gatsby Reserve.

Ross & Squibb Distillery, formerly MGP, has launched its new Remus Gatsby Reserve. The 15-year-old straight bourbon is created to celebrate F. Scott Fitzgerald's classic novel, The Great Gatsby. Made by master distiller Ian Stirsman and his team at the Lawrenceburg, IN distillery, it retails for a suggested $199.99 per 750-ml bottle. "The Remus Bourbon brand is inspired by the finest bourbon of the Prohibition era, and The Great Gatsby offers arguably the most well-known depiction of those times," adds Shanae Randolph, Brand Manager for Remus Bourbon. 

Read the full story here.

High West Releases the 10th Edition of Its Coveted Shakespeare-Inspired Whiskey

Photo Credit: High West

Utah's High West Distillery has announced the launch of the tenth edition of its limited-release A Midwinter Night's Dram Act 10, a blend of rye whiskeys finished in tawny and ruby port barrels. The 2022 release will be bottled at 98.6 proof and is a distillery-only release with an SRP of $150. And to celebrate a decade of this Shakespeare-inspired spirit, the distillery is also releasing A Midwinter Night's Dram: The Encore, an even more limited limited-release that was finished in white port barrels.

Read the full story here.

Buffalo Trace Unveils 2022 Van Winkle Collection

Buffalo Trace has unveiled their 2022 collection of Van Winkle whiskeys. The wheated recipe allows for longer aging, in some cases two decades or more, than the traditional rye recipe used in most bourbons. This year marks the 20th anniversary of the partnership between the Van Winkle family and Buffalo Trace Distillery.

The 2022 Van Winkle collection release consists of:

• Old Rip Van Winkle Handmade Bourbon 10-Year-Old (107 proof, suggested retail price: $69.99 per 750-ml. bottle.)
• Van Winkle Special Reserve Bourbon 12-Year-Old (90.4 proof, SRP: $79.99)
• Van Winkle Family Reserve Rye 13-Year-Old (95.6 proof, SRP: $119.99)
• Pappy Van Winkle’s Family Reserve Bourbon 15-Year-Old (107 proof, SRP: $119.99)
• Pappy Van Winkle’s Family Reserve Bourbon 20-Year-Old (90.4 proof, SRP: $199.99)
• Pappy Van Winkle’s Family Reserve Bourbon 23-Year-Old (95.6 proof, SRP: $299.99)

The W.L. Weller Bourbons were formally produced by the Van Winkle family until 1972, when the Weller brand was sold, and eventually acquired by Buffalo Trace Distillery. "The best chance to find our products at a fair price is through lotteries offered by many retailers, where fans have a chance to buy our bourbon at MSRP. Many of these lotteries benefit charities, so it's a win-win for everyone," said founder Robert van Winkle. Enthusiasts are also reminded to avoid online resellers such as private Facebook groups and Craigslist.

Read more here.

Garrison Brothers' Boozy New Cowboy Bourbon

 Photo Credit: Garrison Brothers

The 2022 edition of Garrison Brothers’ new Cowboy Bourbon clocks in at 134.8 proof, a big, bold, brash bourbon for cowboys, cowgirls and everyone in between. Garrison Brothers, Texas' first legal distillery, is located in the town of Hye just a little over an hour west of Austin in the Hill Country. Cowboy Bourbon is an annual release, and what sets it apart from Garrison Brothers' other bourbon expressions is that it's older and is bottled uncut and unfiltered. That proof is also the result of the intense Texas heat that the whiskey is subjected to as it ages.

Read more here.

Knob Creek Unveils 18 Year Old Expression

 Photo Credit: Beam Suntory

Knob Creek Bourbon, a leader in the Small Batch Bourbon category, announced the addition of a new, limited-edition bourbon to its portfolio: Knob Creek 18 Year Old.  "As we celebrate 30 years of Knob Creek, it's clear to me that Dad was ahead of his time in creating innovative expressions with big, bold flavors that defined pre-prohibition whiskey," said Fred Noe, Booker Noe's son and Seventh Generation Master Distiller.

Aged twice as long as its flagship bourbon and bottled at 100 proof, Knob Creek 18 Year Old offers a complex, yet balanced, liquid due to its mature age. This latest release comes just in time to celebrate the 30th anniversary of the Small Batch Bourbon Collection.

Knob Creek 18 Year Old is bottled with the following characteristics:

• Proof: 100; 
• Color:  Rich copper tones with auburn hues;
• Aroma: Brown sugar and aged oak.
• Taste: Full-bodied with notes of caramelized oak and hints of sweet vanilla and baking spices;
• SRP: $169.99 for a 750mL bottle.
  

Read more here.

Kentucky Bourbon Trail Distilleries Recommend Booking Tours in Advance

Anticipating a new milestone, the Kentucky Distillers' Association (KDA) has launched a campaign asking people to "Book Now, Bourbon Later". In addition to social media and blog content created by the Kentucky Bourbon Trail®, participating distilleries will also promote the campaign.  This thrilling milestone for Kentucky Bourbon Trail® and Kentucky Bourbon Trail Craft Tour® distilleries will likely exceed the record 1.7 million combined visits set in 2019, prior to pandemic shutdowns.  Many distilleries share availability, events and resources on social media to help visitors keep up with important updates.

"Kentucky's Bourbon culture is unlike anything in the world, and it deserves to be upheld with the utmost respect and appreciation," says Angel’s Envy brand home general manager Dee Ford. "Since most of our larger brands cannot accommodate walk-in visitors, reservations are the key to a successful Kentucky Bourbon adventure."

Read more here.

Company Distilling Launched Its First Limited Release

Company Distilling Cask Strength Bourbon

Company Distilling launched its first Limited Release: Cask Strength Bourbon on September 29, 2022. The Tennessee distillery listened to fan demand for a cask strength bourbon after the successful release of their Straight Bourbon Whiskey Finished with Maple Wood in November of 2021. All 350 commemorative gift packages sold out within the first 36 hours of the pre-sale. Company Distilling's Cask Strength Bourbon is an approachable and balanced original wheated bourbon recipe uncut for maximum flavor with a bold maple finish.  "We're on the heels of opening both of our distilleries in Thompson's Station and Townsend, TN, and now we're able to add an additional product to our portfolio lineup," said Company Distilling Master Distiller, Jeff Arnett.

More information, including tasting notes and wait list signup, available here.

Bourbon Barrel Blurbs, Volume 01, Issue 14

Hope you are enjoying Bourbon Heritage Month. It's been a bit but we are back with another BBB. This edition features blurbs/links on Woodford Reserve Distillery, Hirsch Whiskey, O.H. Ingram, Talnua, Chattanooga Whiskey, Eagle Rare, Fresh Bourbon, Dancing Goat, Blue Run Spirits, and much, much more.

A Day on the Trail: Woodford Reserve Distillery Will Have You Seeing Double with Expansion to 6 Gorgeous Copper Pot Stills

• O.H. Ingram ‘River Aged’ Flagship Bourbon Boasts A Fascinating Maturation Process

• Chattanooga Whiskey Announced the Next Release in Its Bottled in Bond Series: Fall 2018 Vintage 

Hotaling & Co.’s Hirsch Whiskey Brand Has Introduced The Bivouac Kentucky Straight Bourbon

Distilled in Bardstown, Kentucky, 95% of the blend has a mashbill of 74% corn, 18% rye, and 8% malted barley, while 5% of the blend is distilled from a high malted barley mash aged for at least eight years. The custom mashbill is inspired by the A.H. Hirsch 16-Year-old Reserve. Retailing for a suggested price of $55, The Bivouac is currently in select markets, with national availability as of October 1

• UPROXX Blind Tasting The Best Bourbon Whiskeys Made Outside Of Kentucky 

• Condé Nast Traveler - How to Sip Your Way Through Kentucky's Lesser-Known Bourbon Trail 

Jim Beam to Invest $400m in Bourbon-to-biogas Project

As part of a $400m investment into the expansion of production at its Booker Noe distillery in Boston, Kentucky, Jim Beam bourbon whiskey producer Beam Suntory will also build a facility to convert spent grains into biogas.

• 10 Things You Should Know About Eagle Rare Bourbon 
  

• All of the Best Whiskey to Drink in 2022 According to VinePair

• Fresh Bourbon Opens Tasting Room in Lexington 

New Liberty Distillery Announces Launch of Bloody Butcher Sour Mash Straight Bourbon Whiskey 

New Liberty Distillery is thrilled to announce the release of Bloody Butcher Sour Mash Straight Bourbon Whiskey, aged for three years and distilled using heritage grains including bright-red Pennsylvania corn varietals, malted rye, and malted barley using a sourdough starter from local breadbasket High Street Philly. Ringing in at 47.5% (95 proof), Bloody Butcher Sour Mash Bourbon is now available in a 200ml size for $24.99 across the state of Pennsylvania. Created from a base of 70% Bloody Butcher corn, 27% malted rye, and 3% malted barley, the spirit pulls aromas that are reminiscent of leather tobacco pouches, pound cake, and dried leaves. Its palate notes are hearty, with starting hints of spice that round off into a warm autumn reminder of an apple cinnamon doughnut, dusted with nutmeg and crystalized sugar. Bloody Butcher Sour Mash Bourbon is best enjoyed sipped neat or in a number of classic bourbon cocktails.

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• Dancing Goat Completes Its 17,000-square-foot Expansion 

The Biggest Bourbon Brands and Companies That Own Them [infographic] by Vinepair

In order to navigate our way through the labyrinth of bourbon’s and their parent companies, VinePair produced this family tree to demonstrate who owns what in the bourbon world. To make things a bit easier to make sense of, we’ve left out independently owned brands — not only because there are too many to fit on one page, but also because many source rather than distill their own whiskey (although some of the brands in this graphic have, at some point, sourced juice from other distilleries).

Click image to enlarge

• Jack Daniel’s Ex-Master Distiller’s New Bourbon Is Now Available

• Blue Run Spirits Named Kentucky’s Most Innovative Startup

Well, thats it for now. Until next time... Drink More Bourbon!
 

[Press Release] Bardstown Bourbon Co. to Release Final Expressions in Fusion Series

Bardstown, Ky. (September 21, 2022) -- With Bardstown Bourbon Company's own distillate reaching maturity and the forthcoming Origin Series impending release, the Fusion series is preparing to take a rest from the shelf. Fusion 8 is now available at the Bardstown Bourbon Co. gift shop, online, and at retailers across 20 states. Fusion 9, will be available later this fall. 

Fusion series releases combine older sourced whiskey and younger bourbon which has been distilled and aged by Bardstown Bourbon Co. and shows a range of mashbills across the blends including corn, rye, wheat, and malted barley. The journey of the unique series has been to see the changing flavor profiles as the Bardstown Bourbon Co. bourbon ages, becoming more prominent in the blends over time as the distillery has established itself as a major player in the industry. Both Fusion 8 and Fusion 9 feature 4-year-old bourbon from Bardstown Bourbon Co., the oldest bourbon yet released by the brand.

Fusion 8, available now, brings together two vibrant high-rye Bardstown Bourbon Co. distilled bourbons, balanced by a bold 12-year-old Kentucky expression. The round mouthfeel leads to sizzle and spice on the palate making this Fusion a unique, standout blend. Ripe apricot, mint, and green tea are balanced by layers of caramel and honey over baked apples. A refreshing, lively spice awakens the palate and leads to a balanced, signature Fusion finish. Fusion 8 is presented at 95.5 proof (47.75 percent ABV).

"With Fusion, not only have we enjoyed the evolution of the series as more of our stock comes of age, but also the interesting play between old whiskies and younger ones which bring a complexity in flavor profile that you don't see elsewhere," said Dan Callaway, VP Product Development and Hospitality, who leads blending for Bardstown Bourbon Co., "As we move toward new and exciting releases with the distillate we've created, Fusion will remain a signpost in the history of Bardstown Bourbon Co. encompassing our approach to the art and science of modern bourbon blending."

Fusion 9, the series' final release, will be available later this fall. Waves of butterscotch and ripe cherry meet mint, coconut, and black pepper lead this nuanced blend. A luscious mouthfeel of red fruit and maple gives way to an indulgent finish of caramel sweetness with lasting rye spice. 

"Throughout the series, we've showcased the best of our estate-distilled bourbon with carefully curated aged whiskey. We conclude the series with our favorite creation to date," said Callaway.

Fusion 9 is presented at 96.8 proof (48.4 percent ABV). Both releases are offered as 750 mL at an SRP of $64.99.

Bardstown Bourbon Co. Fusion 8 (Now available)

95.5 proof (47.75 percent ABV)

• 12% 4-year-old Bardstown Bourbon Co. - 75 percent corn/ 21 percent rye/ 4 percent malted barley
• 58% 4-year-old Bardstown Bourbon Co. - 70 percent corn/ 18 percent rye/ 12 percent malted barley
• 30% 12-year-old Kentucky bourbon - 78 percent corn/ 10 percent rye/ 12 percent malted barley

Bardstown Bourbon Co. Fusion 9 (Available late fall)

96.8 proof (48.4 percent ABV)

• 48% - 4-year-old Bardstown Bourbon Co. - 75 percent corn/21 percent rye/ 4 percent malted barley 
• 22% - 4-year-old Bardstown Bourbon Co. - 60 percent corn/26 percent rye/ 10 percent wheat/ 4 percent malted barley 
• 30% 12 yr. KY 75 percent corn/ 13 percent rye/ 12 percent malted barley

About Bardstown Bourbon Company: 

Founded in 2014 by Peter Loftin in the heart of Bourbon Country on 100 acres of active farmland, Bardstown Bourbon Company, 1500 Parkway Drive, Bardstown, Ky., is one of the country’s most modern and technically advanced whiskey distilleries. Celebrating the art of making high-quality, authentic bourbons, the innovative distillery produces custom rye, whiskey, and bourbon for prominent brands including High West, Belle Meade, Hirsch, and many others through its one-of-a-kind collaborative distilling program. Bardstown Bourbon Company honors tradition and drives innovation with their exceptional destination experience for visitors, offering the only full-service restaurant located within a distillery on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail, The Kitchen, and Bar at Bardstown Bourbon Company.

Contact:

Holly Weyler 

holly@flytrapsnap.com

502.836.8715

 

 

[Press Release] Historic Bourbon Brand, Fortuna, to Re-Enter the American Whiskey Market

Image from Fortuna Bourbon's website

STANFORD, Ky., Sept. 20, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Historic whiskey brand Fortuna Bourbon is set to re-enter the market for the first time in over 50 years.

Operating from the late 1800's until the mid 1960's, Fortuna was once a prolific and known brand throughout America. After shuttering their doors during the dark days of whiskey, the brand is now being revitalized for a new generation of whiskey lovers.

Fortuna is being revived by the people behind Rare Character, an emergent brand founded in 2021 by industry veterans Pablo Moix and Peter Nevenglosky. Joining them in 2022 is Andy Shapira, an industry expert who gained invaluable experience and insight while working and growing up in his family's three-generation legacy business Heaven Hill Distilleries.

Fortuna was originally founded by Phil Hollenbach, a German immigrant, in the late 1800's. Hollenbach found success in Kentucky by bringing "A Taste of Good Fortune" to all with his remarkable bourbon.

Through extensive research including correspondence with members of the Hollenbach family, this iteration of the brand aims to recreate the essence of Fortuna at its peak in the 1880s, down to the branding, bottles, and bourbon itself.

"We were fortunate to have had access to a few vintage bottlings of Fortuna, as well as the Hollenbach's original flagship brand Glencoe," said Shapira. "This helped produce a flavor profile to shoot for and shape the way we approach meticulously selecting the six barrels that make up each batch of Fortuna. We are proud of the results."

The whiskey is a blended Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, 102 proof, aged a minimum of 6 years. "It's so perfectly balanced it's crushable," explained co-founder Pablo Moix. "I come from a bar background, so I just approached it the same way I would do cocktails."

Moix, Nevenglosky, and Shapira are no strangers to whiskey; they're responsible for Rare Character Whiskey, one of the fastest growing whiskey brands in America. Through exclusive single barrel releases and innovative product lines such as The Finishing Series and The Native Wood Series, Rare Character has quickly become known in whiskey communities.

Fortuna is available to purchase via seelbachs.com in nearly all 50 states, and kandlwines.com for customers in California. MSRP is $84.99.

To learn more about Fortuna and its history, visit fortunabourbon.com and follow @fortunabourbon on Instagram. The brand plans to release new products in 2023 as well.

SOURCE Rare Character Whiskey Company

CONTACT: Ian Kelley, Marketing Manager, 720-614-8242, ian@rarecharacterwhiskey.com