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Send a textWe share how Whiskey Thief keeps its farm soul while growing in Louisville and nationwide through direct-to-consumer shipping. We taste a nine-year rye, dig into pot still craft, and map the rising whiskey hub shaping the city's scene.• why grow and stay the same is the goal• how the urban tasting room mirrors the farm vibe• what pot distilling demands from a skilled team• where collaboration beats constant instruction• how maturation, storage, and weather shape flavor• why DTC unlocks access in 46 states• what legal compliance and taxes mean for shipping• how small-batch blending preserves identity• where Louisville's whiskey neighborhood is booming• what we taste in the nine-year ryeListen, like, leave good feedback and subscribeWhiskeythief.comThe first thing you notice is the feel. Gravel under tires at the farm, guitars on the wall in Louisville, and that instant sense you've walked into a place that treats whiskey like a craft and a community. We sat down with owner-operator Walter Zausch, director of distilling Lisa Wicker, head of experiences Amy, and Philip from Kentucky Bourbon Direct to unpack how Whiskey Thief scales without losing its single barrel soul—and why fans across 46 states can finally get bottles shipped legally to their door.We start where their story lives: pot stills, sharp palates, and a team that can make precise cuts without babysitting. Lisa explains how collaboration speeds quality, from early peach brandy iterations to doubling yields while tightening flavor. Then we go deeper into maturation: the moment when the barrel becomes the hero around eight to ten years, how ricked versus palletized storage bends outcomes, and why Kentucky's wild winter swings can turn vanilla, mint, and dry cocoa into surprising notes in a nine-year rye. If you love rye whiskey, this tasting will light up your curiosity—minty lift, caramel undertow, and a clean finish at 121 proof.Access is the other revolution. Philip breaks down the direct-to-consumer engine that handles compliance, taxes, and shipping so craft producers can focus on making great juice. The result is real: Whiskey Thief ships to 46 states, fans no longer leave empty-handed, and brands gain data and margins that keep the lights on without surrendering independence. With Louisville's whiskey hub booming—Heaven's Door, Chicken Cock, WhistlePig, and more within walking distance—the city offers a concentrated tour of American whiskey culture while the farm preserves the barrel-thieving experience you can't get anywhere else.We close with the future: small, intentional blends that mirror the five-barrel magic of on-site tastings, a boutique approach that respects terroir, weather, and the patience great spirits demand. If you're here for craft, character, and smarter access to bottles you actually want, you'll feel at home with us. Subscribe, share with a whiskey friend, and leave a review to help more bourbon lovers find the show. Cheers to good barrels, good people, and getting the right bottles into your hands.voice over Whiskey Thief Add for SOFLSupport the showhttps://www.scotchybourbonboys.com The Scotchy bourbon Boys are #3 in Feedspots Top 60 whiskey podcasts in the world https://podcast.feedspot.com/whiskey_podcasts/

Send a textWe chart Alan Bishop's leap from an established distillery to Old Homestead, how he rebuilt his stills, and why he's doubling down on experiential spirits. We taste and unpack Wickliffe Bell at 139.2 proof—peat-smoked oats, smoked apples, clean cuts, and a rest that polishes without erasing character.• Reinvention after French Lick and owning the build at Old Homestead• Pot still aging limits and why barrel babysitting matters• Labels that free creativity: whiskey from a bourbon mash• Making uncommon whiskey for common people as a guiding idea• The Old Homestead campus and “Alcohol Acres” destination• Wild Newton Stewart yeast capture and sense of place• Wycliffe Bell process, thumpers, peat, apples, and cask strength• Water, highballs, and choose-your-proof tasting• Upcoming Rise & Shine trio and barrel-rested sunshines• New absinthe and gin releases, plus where to find Alan's workThe best spirits don't just taste like a place—they tell you its story. We sit down with Alan Bishop for his record-setting return to talk about leaving a legacy brand, hand-building a new distillery at Old Homestead, and charting a bolder future where labels serve flavor, not the other way around. If you've ever wondered how a distiller reinvents without losing soul, this is a masterclass in making uncommon whiskey for common people.Alan opens up about the real arc of starting over: the existential first year, the stubborn stills, and the moment the “house character” finally reveals itself. He explains why pot still whiskey has a sweet spot, how to babysit barrels so wood doesn't swallow grain, and why he's transparent about using “whiskey distilled from a bourbon mash” to unlock honest flexibility—used oak, varied entry proofs, and subtle pre-distillation botanicals—while telling drinkers exactly what's in the glass.Then we dive into Wickliffe Bell, a cask-strength Black Forest Spirit at 139.2 proof that drinks shockingly gentle. Oats malted by Sugar Creek are peat-smoked with Irish turf, apples are smoked and loaded into a thumper, and the cut is clean like a white distillate before a short rest in new oak. The result is apple-oat warmth, soft phenolics that read like hickory-kissed smoke, and a choose-your-own-proof journey that blooms with a splash of water or lifts in a smoky highball. It's not bourbon. It's not scotch. It's a place in a bottle.We also map the broader canvas: Bartels & Bishop hitting distribution, limited Old Homestead bourbon kept intentionally scarce, the Rise & Shine trio (citrus, jasmine-chamomile, hickory bark) riding the thumpers, and a new absinthe that merges Old World method with New World botanicals. Along the way, Alan talks underdog grit, storytelling as craft, and building “Alcohol Acres”—a lakeside destination that pairs serious spirits with a weekend worth remembering.If you care about flavor, place, and where American whiskey goes next, press play. Then tell us how you took your pour—neat, water, or highball—and leave a review so more curious drinkers can find the show.Find us at www.scotchybourbonboys.com — glens, t-shirts, bourbon balls, and moreFollow on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, X, TikTok, and PatreonApple listeners: leave a five-star rating and a thoughtful review“Drink and drive, drink responsibly, and live your life uncut and unfiltered”voice over Whiskey Thief Add for SOFLSupport the showhttps://www.scotchybourbonboys.com The Scotchy bourbon Boys are #3 in Feedspots Top 60 whiskey podcasts in the world https://podcast.feedspot.com/whiskey_podcasts/

Send a textWe taste presidential-labeled pours, unpack how to judge whiskey beyond politics, and dive into Dark Arts' global wood program, pricing choices, and plans for Noble Arts. The talk moves through Lexington's revival, industry alliances, and bourbon's power to bring people together.• judging whiskey on liquid quality not labels• guest's background, global sourcing, and neat-pour philosophy• Noble Arts launch plans and honey-cask allocations• festivals, YouTube creators, and small-producer formats• pricing ethics, exotic woods, and value at $60–$100• Mizanara as accessible flagship, proof and profile• Lexington's distillery district history and renewal• Dark Arts tasting room vibe and team approach• cooperation among brands and rising-tide mindset• legacy building, never-sell ethos, and resilience• vodka, highballs, and the search for a party-friendly bourbon drink• tastings: Cinder And Smoke Ten Year, 45/47, and American 47Become a member, support the podcast, join the Patreon, leave a five-star review on Apple and iHeartA whiskey label can spark a fight before the cork leaves the bottle. We start there—then pour past the politics to ask the only question that matters: is the whiskey any good? Along the way, we bring in Dark Arts Whiskey House's chief alchemist for an unfiltered look at how rare woods, real sourcing, and a clear pricing philosophy can turn crowded shelves into a playground for curious palates.We taste through presidential-themed releases and a ten-year Cinder and Smoke, breaking down what the nose and finish reveal at approachable proofs. From Japanese Mizanara offered at a shockingly fair shelf price to honey-cask experiments bound for festival drops, this conversation opens the black box on “exotic finishes.” No Alibaba shortcuts here—just long-haul flights, fifth and sixth-generation cooperage partners, and a refusal to let scarcity morph into gouging. You'll hear how Dark Arts keeps premium bottles accessible, why proof and mouthfeel trump hype, and what to look for when a label leans on patriotism to sell a pour.We widen the lens to Lexington's distillery district—once neglected, now humming—and how alliances between neighbors make a destination out of a few city blocks. There's real talk on team building, titles, and respect in hospitality, plus a legacy stance you don't hear often: never sell, build for generations, and let the liquid do the talking. And because whiskey should be fun, we kick around the missing link in cocktail culture: a simple, party-friendly bourbon drink that can sit next to beer and champagne without dumbing down the spirit. Highballs and herbaceous spritzers, anyone?If you're a bourbon nerd, a craft-leaning explorer, or just tired of marketing fog, this is your pour. Hit play, taste with us, and join the conversation—then tell us: what makes a whiskey truly “good,” and which bottle surprised you most? Subscribe, share with a friend, and drop a five-star review to keep these conversations flowing.voice over Whiskey Thief Add for SOFLSupport the showhttps://www.scotchybourbonboys.com The Scotchy bourbon Boys are #3 in Feedspots Top 60 whiskey podcasts in the world https://podcast.feedspot.com/whiskey_podcasts/

Send a textWe chase one core question: does the whiskey in the bottle live up to the story. Dark Arts' chief alchemist Macaulay Minton joins us to talk rare woods, fair pricing, Lexington's revival, and why bourbon still works as social glue across differences.• focusing on liquid over labels and hype• Dark Arts' global wood program and toast design• neat-first philosophy and hospitality without pretense• accessible pricing on exotic finishes, including Mizunara• festival plans, limited honey-cask allocations, absinthe launch• Lexington distillery district history and renewal• collaboration across brands and rising-tide mindset• building a team of spirit guides and low turnover• family-first growth, never-sell vision, and stewardship• tasting “presidential” releases on merit, not politics• bourbon as community glue and respectful debateWhat if bourbon could cut through the noise and bring people back to the table? We put that belief to the test with Dark Arts Whiskey House's chief alchemist Macaulay Minton—an independent mind with a global barrel network, a stubborn streak against hype, and a plan to make rare-wood whiskey actually attainable. From trekking for staves and dialing in toast profiles to keeping flagship bottles under eye-popping prices, he shows how craft can be both imaginative and honest.We get hands-on with “presidential” releases and judge them the way whiskey should be judged—by taste, texture, and finish, not the label. Along the way, we dig into the revival of Lexington's historic distillery district: limestone water, living history, and a tasting room that feels part gallery, part laboratory. Hiring “spirit guides” for curiosity and care over classic résumés, the Dark Arts team shapes an experience that reads the guest first and pours second. Collaboration threads through the story—brands sharing space, knowledge, and momentum—because a rising tide really can lift all boats when the liquid holds up.Looking forward, we explore a custom still in the works, a bold absinthe program under Noble Arts, and micro-batches like honey casks headed to festivals including New Orleans. There's a clear line on values: steward the product, respect the community, price with integrity, and build something that lasts through family, not flip it to the highest bidder. Most of all, we celebrate bourbon as social glue—a way to slow down, talk straight, and find common ground over a shared glass.If you care about where whiskey is going—and how it can still bring us together—hit play, share with a friend, and leave a review to keep the conversation flowing. Cheers to good bourbon, good people, and better conversations ahead.Support us: www.scotchybourbonboys.com — Become a member, join the Patreon, leave a five-star review on Apple and iHeart. “Remember, good bourbon equals good times with good friends. Drink responsibly, don't drink and drive, and live your life uncut and unfiltered.”voice over Whiskey Thief Add for SOFLSupport the showhttps://www.scotchybourbonboys.com The Scotchy bourbon Boys are #3 in Feedspots Top 60 whiskey podcasts in the world https://podcast.feedspot.com/whiskey_podcasts/

Send a textGregg Snyder Master distiller of 4 Branches Bourbon and Tiny trace bourbon's cycle from the late 1970s decline to today's surplus, explaining why growth leveled, not crashed. Along the way we unpack ownership shifts, the rise of sourcing and blending, oak supply myths, and why premium whiskey still holds strong.• market cycles from decline to correction• Seagram's consolidation and Four Roses ownership story• global demand shaping U.S. bourbon strategy• sourcing as a smart model in surplus eras• blending for unique profiles beyond single distilleries• shelf signals: pricing pressure and broader choice• cooperages, white oak supply, and forest management• culture shifts, Covid impact, and cannabis competition• premium demand resilience versus brand saturation• practical outlook for producers and consumersRemember www.scotchybourbonboys.com for all things Scotchy Bourbon Boys, Glencairns, t‑shirtsWe are on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, X, TikTok, and PatreonMake sure that you become members, subscribe, join us on PatreonWe are on Apple, iHeart, and SpotifyLeave us good feedback, give us five‑star reviews on Apple and all the good stuffBourbon isn't crashing—it's correcting. We sit down with a veteran who started at Seagram's in 1978 to chart how whiskey moved from a slow decline to a record barrel surplus and what that means for prices, sourcing, and the future of premium. From Four Roses' winding path through global owners to Gallo's next play, we unpack how stewardship and team culture, not just corporate logos, shape the whiskey in your glass. And we get honest about the boom years: allocations, tight stocks, and why so many new brands emerged on sourced juice when Kentucky couldn't meet demand.What's different now? Capacity spread beyond Kentucky, with Indiana's Ross & Squibb anchoring a new era of reliable supply while craft distilleries in Ohio and beyond scaled up. With more mature barrels available, blending becomes a creative frontier: rye spice meeting wheated softness, age layered over freshness, finishes that refine rather than hide. Our guest breaks down the business math too—why not every label needs a nine‑figure distillery when great whiskey can be curated with integrity and bottled at fair prices.We also tackle the oak question. Cooperage orders cooled, but white oak isn't vanishing; forest inventories and longer growth cycles tell a healthier story. On the consumer side, shelves are widening, fewer bottles are hidden behind the counter, and value is re‑entering the chat. Premium bourbon still carries real demand, but hype alone won't carry weak liquid. If you care about where whiskey goes next—pricing, availability, craftsmanship, and the rise of blending as an art—this conversation gives you a clear map for the next chapter.If you enjoyed this deep dive, follow the show, leave a five‑star review, and share with a friend who's hunting their next great pour.voice over Whiskey Thief Add for SOFLSupport the showhttps://www.scotchybourbonboys.com The Scotchy bourbon Boys are #3 in Feedspots Top 60 whiskey podcasts in the world https://podcast.feedspot.com/whiskey_podcasts/

Send us a textTwo friends return to the mics with health updates, family news, and a shared pour of Old Forester President's Choice. We dig into Barrel #133 at 115.3 proof, break down the nose, body, taste, and finish, and give it a 17 out of 18 with clear reasons why.• context on President's Choice relaunch and heritage• Ohio allocation versus distillery-only releases• barrel #133 stats, age in months, and proof• nose of banana, vanilla, and bakery spice• body and viscosity that soften the heat• taste progression from sweet to pepper and cinnamon• finish length, balance, and why it's not a perfect five• value at MSRP versus secondary prices• who should chase it and why• comparisons to 1920 and Birthday Bourbon• updates on health, gratitude, and next guest previewFollow us on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, X, TikTok, and Patreon. Subscribe on Apple, iHeart, and Spotify. Like, listen, comment, and leave good feedback—five-star reviews on Apple help us reach number one. “Super chat us on YouTube!”A rare bottle should earn its mystique in the glass, and Old Forester President's Choice Barrel #133 does exactly that. We crack into this 115.3 proof single barrel—aged 113 months and selected by the Old Forester leadership team—to find out whether the banana-vanilla magic lives up to the chase and the price tag. Spoiler: we score it 17 out of 18, and the reasons come down to texture, balance, and a flavor profile that feels like the house style in high definition.We start with the story behind President's Choice, a modern revival of George Garvin Brown II's 1964 private barrel tradition that has evolved from distillery-only drops to limited retailer allocations. This Ohio release set the stage for a deep dive into what matters: a nose that opens with ripe banana, soft vanilla, and warm baking spice; a body with real weight and oil that carries flavor without harshness; and a palate that moves from candy banana and vanilla cream into pepper, cinnamon sugar, and flaky pie crust richness. The finish is medium and composed, sweet-to-spice with a light hug that invites another pour.Beyond tasting notes, we talk value and audience. At roughly $280 MSRP and a much higher secondary, who should buy this bottle? Our take: loyal Old Forester fans and serious drinkers will find a special-occasion pour that actually delivers. We compare it to standouts like 1920 and Birthday Bourbon, explain why this barrel feels like the brand's profile “on steroids,” and call out where it falls just short—mainly a finish that could run longer. There's also life on the mics: health updates, community shout‑outs, and a preview of our next guest, veteran blender and distiller Greg Schneider.If you're deciding whether to line up, trade, or pass, this breakdown gives you the clarity you need. Tap play, subscribe for more honest reviews, and drop your take—would you open it, stash it, or flip it? Your notes and five‑star reviews on Apple help us climb to number one.voice over Whiskey Thief Add for SOFLSupport the showhttps://www.scotchybourbonboys.com The Scotchy bourbon Boys are #3 in Feedspots Top 60 whiskey podcasts in the world https://podcast.feedspot.com/whiskey_podcasts/

Send us a textWe compare Early Times Bottled in Bond from 2022 and 2025, decode laser codes to date bottles, and unpack what changed after Sazerac moved production to Barton 1792. We score both pours using the Old Louisville barrel bottle breakdown and land on a surprising tie with different strengths.• Bottled in Bond rules clarified and why they matter• Early Times history from 1860 to the 2017 BIB revival• 2020 acquisition by Sazerac and Barton 1792 transition• How to read laser codes to date your bottle• 2022 vs 2025 tasting: nose, body, taste, finish• Reasons flavor shifts across distilleries and warehouses• Value verdict and best uses in cocktails and wassail• Upcoming guests: Greg Schneider and Alan BishopWe're on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, X, TikTok, Apple, iHeart, and Spotify—leave five-star reviews, become a member, and join our Patreon. Visit www.scotchybourbonboys.com for Glencairns, t‑shirts, and bourbon ballsvoice over Whiskey Thief Add for SOFLSupport the showhttps://www.scotchybourbonboys.com The Scotchy bourbon Boys are #3 in Feedspots Top 60 whiskey podcasts in the world https://podcast.feedspot.com/whiskey_podcasts/

Send us a textWe sit down with Macaulay Williams to explore how Duck Club blends culture, craft, and sharp pricing, from a $29.99 92 proof sipper to a $39.99 110 proof High‑Brass. The talk ranges from rickhouse science to market oversupply, with a clear stance on blending, transparency, and conservation.• origin story of Duck Club and the hunting clubhouse ethos• Riley Green as co‑founder and authentic voice• conservation support for Ducks Unlimited and Delta Waterfowl• blending philosophy, extraction vs oxygenation• why 53‑gallon barrels matter for balance• detailed breakdowns of the 92 proof and 110 proof blends• pricing strategy and value in a corrected market• transparency via batch info and QR codes• sourcing vs contract distilling trade‑offs• branding, nostalgia, and reaching younger drinkers• proof, flavor, and where whiskey shows best• rollout plan across 28 to 30 markets and merchJoin us on Patreon, support the show, and leave a review on Apple, iHeart, or Spotifywww.scotchybourbonboys.com“Make sure you live your life like us, uncut and unfiltered.”A new bourbon with duck blind DNA lands with a clear promise: real flavor, real value, and a story that actually fits the bottle. We welcome Macaulay Williams, CEO of Morningside Brands and co‑founder of Duck Club, to pull back the curtain on launching a spirits brand that marries hunting‑camp camaraderie with disciplined blending and transparent pricing. From his pivot out of law to building multiple labels, Macaulay explains how market cycles, barrel science, and brand identity shape what we pour.We dig into the mechanics that matter—extraction vs oxygenation, why 53‑gallon barrels are a sweet spot, and how rapid aging shortcuts often miss the mark. Then we taste through Duck Club's lineup: a 92 proof Kentucky‑plus‑Indiana blend at $29.99 that drinks far above its price, and the 110 proof High‑Brass at $39.99 that layers in eight‑year Kentucky character and a caramel‑rich finish without chasing heat for heat's sake. Along the way, we touch the fallen rickhouse saga, climate‑controlled warehouses, and why blending may be American whiskey's most exciting frontier right now.Culture is the throughline. Duck Club leans into the real rhythm of duck season—cold mornings, warm fires, and shared stories—and pairs it with conservation action through Ducks Unlimited and Delta Waterfowl. With country artist and die‑hard hunter Riley Green as co‑founder, the brand reaches younger drinkers without losing authenticity, using vintage‑inspired design, batch transparency, and lifestyle merch to widen the tent. If you care about flavor, value, and a brand that shows its work, this conversation will recalibrate what you expect from a $30–$40 bottle.If you enjoyed this deep dive into whiskey craft and culture, tap follow, share with a friend who loves a good pour, and leave a quick review. Your support helps more curious listeners find their next favorite bottle.voice over Whiskey Thief Add for SOFLSupport the showhttps://www.scotchybourbonboys.com The Scotchy bourbon Boys are #3 in Feedspots Top 60 whiskey podcasts in the world https://podcast.feedspot.com/whiskey_podcasts/

Send us a textWe explore how a five-year whiskey aged in used cooperage becomes something new when layered with over two dozen botanicals. Kieran Walsh shares the path from wine and High West to Big Easy Whiskey and why he designed an 86 proof pour that opens on ice, thrives in a toddy, and avoids sugary shortcuts.• philosophy of enhancing whiskey rather than masking it• used cooperage to balance oak and highlight grain character• infusion set including baking spices, citrus peel, and green herbs• how hydrophobic compounds bloom with water and heat• positioning beyond the “flavored whiskey” category• New Orleans as flavor inspiration and brand home base• distribution focus on Louisiana with planned regional growth• future expressions and bourbon releases teased• simple cocktails: big easy hot toddy and absinthe pairing ideasListen, like, subscribe, leave good feedback, especially on AppleGive us a five-star review, pleaseYou can become a member and also join our PatreonWhat if American whiskey could be lifted, not lacquered? We sit down with master blender and COO Kieran Walsh of Big Easy Spirits to unpack a five-year whiskey aged in used cooperage and layered with precise infusions—baking spices, citrus peels, and verdant herbs—that amplify what whiskey already does well. No cloying sweetness, no camouflage, just a thoughtfully built 86 proof pour that blooms on ice, hums in a hot toddy, and reshapes what “flavored” can mean without losing its whiskey core.Kieran's journey runs from wine production and restrained oak philosophy to High West's blending lab, where the idea of barrel-aged cocktails and Amaro architecture took root. That background shows in every decision: used barrels keep the oak in line, botanicals track existing whiskey notes rather than fighting them, and the proof point preserves structure in cocktails while staying approachable neat. We explore how hydrophobic compounds unlock aroma with water and heat, why category rules forced a new lane beyond “flavored whiskey,” and how New Orleans—more gumbo than single note—became both muse and proving ground.We also get practical. Expect serving ideas from a minimalist Bourbon Street hot toddy (just whiskey and hot water) to an absinthe-kissed riff worthy of the Old Absinthe House. Kieran shares distribution plans rooted in local love first, then careful expansion to Texas, the Florida panhandle, Mississippi, California, and more. He teases future releases, including older base stocks with alternate infusions and two bourbons waiting in tank—early tasters' reactions ranged from “holy shit” to wide-eyed silence.If you're curious about whiskey innovation, botanical infusions, New Orleans cocktail culture, and how to bridge the gap between purist pours and sugar-heavy flavor bombs, this one's for you. Hit follow, share with a whiskey friend, and drop a review—tell us what cocktail you'll try first with Big Easy Whiskey.voice over Whiskey Thief Add for SOFLSupport the showhttps://www.scotchybourbonboys.com The Scotchy bourbon Boys are #3 in Feedspots Top 60 whiskey podcasts in the world https://podcast.feedspot.com/whiskey_podcasts/

Send us a textWe taste Ohio's exclusive Woodford Reserve Double Oak Barrel Proof single barrel release, explain what makes it different from the 94-proof staple, and score Barrel #5 using our Barrel Bottle Breakdown. We also share community updates, weather-scrambled plans, and next week's guest lineup.• OHLQ's first barrel-proof single barrel of Double Oak and why it matters• How the second toasted barrel shapes sweetness, spice, and finish• Barrel #5 tasting notes of butterscotch, green banana, chocolate, and oak• Comparing profiles across barrels from dessert-forward to herbal-citrus• Proof, price, and value versus the standard Double Oak• Body, viscosity, and the “hug” as part of the finish• Scoring framework and why Barrel #5 landed 18 of 18• Travel changes from the polar vortex and AI artwork for the show• Upcoming guests from Big Easy and Duck Clubwww.ww.scotchybourbonboys.com for all things Scotchy Bourbon Boys. We've got glens, t-shirts, crystal Glencairns. Order it, we'll send it to you. We also have bourbon balls available, so check that out. Comment and leave good feedback on YouTube. You could become members. There's basic member, all different packages. You can leave super chats. On Apple or iHeart, give us five-star reviews. Check us out on Patreon. Just support us.The moment the cork popped on Ohio's exclusive Woodford Reserve Double Oak Barrel Proof, we knew we were in for something special. This isn't the familiar 94-proof crowd-pleaser; it's a single-barrel snapshot bottled at natural strength, and those few extra proof points change the entire ride. We walk through what makes this OHLQ release unique, why the second, deeply toasted barrel matters so much, and how individual cask character turns a staple into a hunt-worthy collectible.We start with the story behind the pick and why staying at barrel proof after that second barrel reveals more texture, sweetness, and spice. From there, we dive into Barrel #5, a glass that opens with crème brûlée and butterscotch on the nose, glides into green-leaning banana and caramelized sugar on the palate, and finishes with warm oak tannins and a satisfying Kentucky hug. Along the way, we compare tasting notes across the lineup—macchiato-rich profiles, maple-and-French-toast vibes, chai and nutmeg, even bright herbal-citrus—and explain how each barrel expresses Double Oak differently without losing the brand's signature richness.We also put the bottle through our Barrel Bottle Breakdown scoring, talk value at $99.99 versus the standard Double Oak, and share practical buying advice for anyone scanning shelves in Ohio. If you love dessert-forward bourbon with real structure, this release hits the sweet spot: bolder aromatics, deeper body, and a finish that lingers long after the last sip. And if you're newer to the style, this is a master class in how finishing, proof, and single-barrel selection can elevate flavor.If you enjoyed the pour-by-pour breakdown, follow the show, rate us five stars, and share this episode with a bourbon friend. Join us on YouTube and socials for more tastings, live chats, and upcoming guest interviews—and tell us which barrel you found and what flavors jumped out first.voice over Whiskey Thief Add for SOFLSupport the showhttps://www.scotchybourbonboys.com The Scotchy bourbon Boys are #3 in Feedspots Top 60 whiskey podcasts in the world https://podcast.feedspot.com/whiskey_podcasts/

Send us a textWe taste Yellowstone's new Recollection Series and score it 15 out of 18 while tracing the brand's roots, the bottle's historic design, and where limited releases fit in a changing bourbon market. We also break down industry news on Luca Mariano and Jim Beam's Claremont pause.• eight-year, 110-proof Yellowstone Recollection profile and tasting• bottle design inspired by historic show bottles• classic Kentucky notes of cherry, vanilla, cinnamon, oak• scoring via nose, body, taste, finish framework• Yellowstone brand history and modern revival• Luxco to Ross & Squibb support and scale• limited editions, finishes, and cigar collaboration• Luca Mariano Chapter 11 and brand prospects• Jim Beam Claremont pause, modernization, and strategy• community picks, store selections, and what to buy nextGo to www.scotchybourbonboys.com for all things Scotchy Bourbon BoysGive us a five-star review on Apple and write somethingBecome a member on YouTube and hit those Super ChatsJoin our PatreonA bottle that looks like a time capsule and drinks like a heavyweight—this pour is our kind of history lesson. We crack open Yellowstone's Recollection Series, an eight-year, 110-proof bourbon that revives the hand-painted “show bottle” spirit while delivering a modern, full-bodied profile. From the embossed glass to the all-cork stopper, the design sets a high bar. The liquid clears it with classic Kentucky notes: dark cherry, vanilla crème, cinnamon warmth, seasoned oak, and a finish that lingers longer than its age would suggest.We trace Yellowstone's roots back to 1872 and follow the brand's revival through Limestone Branch, Luxco, and Ross & Squibb, highlighting how thoughtful stewardship can scale a legacy without sanding off its edges. Along the way, we talk annual limited editions, smart finishing choices, and that Rocky Patel cigar collaboration that turned heads for good reason. If you care about authenticity, this release is more than a collector's piece—it's a reminder that great whiskey is built on patience, process, and a clear point of view.There's more happening across the industry, too. We dig into Luca Mariano's Chapter 11 and what it signals for ambitious newcomers, and we unpack Jim Beam's production pause at Claremont—no layoffs, rebalancing across facilities, and a likely push toward modernization and special-release innovation. It's not a slowdown story; it's a strategy story.We also run our barrel-bottle breakdown: nose, body, taste, and finish. Recollection lands a confident 15 out of 18, thanks to a rich palate and a long, character-driven finish with a hint of oaky grip. If your lane is classic flavors over flashy finishes, you'll feel right at home here. Pour one, listen in, and then tell us: which Yellowstone expression has earned a permanent spot on your shelf?Enjoyed the episode? Follow, rate, and leave a quick review on your podcast app, and share this with a friend who loves a good bottle story.voice over Whiskey Thief Add for SOFLSupport the showhttps://www.scotchybourbonboys.com The Scotchy bourbon Boys are #3 in Feedspots Top 60 whiskey podcasts in the world https://podcast.feedspot.com/whiskey_podcasts/

Send us a textWe weigh the promise and pitfalls of celebrity whiskey while tasting Steph Curry's Gentleman's Cut from Boone County, scoring it 14/18 and debating price, authenticity, and staying power. The tour story, the mash bill, and the finish that surprises anchor a frank review.• celebrity whiskey motives, reach, and risks• Boone County partnership and production details• mash bill, age range, and 90 proof positioning• pricing context against premium and value tiers• oxidation impact and tasting notes across nose, body, taste, finish• 14/18 score and recommendation for celebratory pours• brand longevity, authenticity, and how stars sustain interest• community shoutouts, platform growth, and guest goalsBecome a member. Check out our Patreon. Join Patreon with us. Do super chats on YouTube. Become a member on, not just a subscriber, a member on YouTube. We do become a member of the Scotchy Bourbon Boys group because that membership right now gets you into a tasting that you will definitely want to be a part of.The bottle may have a famous signature, but the pour still has to earn its keep. We dive into Steph Curry's Gentleman's Cut to see whether this 90-proof Kentucky straight bourbon from Boone County's Game Changer Distillery stands on flavor, not just fame. From the origin story and mash bill (75% corn, 21% rye, 4% malted barley) to the five-to-seven-year age range and premium pricing, we unpack how this release positions itself for celebratory moments—and how it compares to other star-backed spirits.I share the full tasting journey, including why letting the bottle breathe transformed the experience. Expect a rich nose of vanilla and caramel with a soft nuttiness, an easygoing body with a light oily glide, and a long, centered finish with oak and a hint of char that quietly lingers. Using our nose-body-taste-finish framework, we land at 14/18—respectable, recommendable, and more compelling than a quick glance might suggest. We talk honestly about value: $78 to $80 isn't “deal territory,” but it slots beneath today's trophy bottles while aiming for premium occasions.We also broaden the lens on celebrity whiskey. Star power can supercharge awareness, access, and distribution, but longevity requires authenticity, reputable partners, and consistent quality. We highlight Boone County's craft credibility, how storytelling around celebration and friendship can ring true, and where some past celebrity labels have stumbled on youth, hype, or misaligned sourcing. If you're curious whether Gentleman's Cut is more than marketing, you'll get context, tasting notes, and a clear takeaway you can use.If you enjoy candid reviews and smart industry insights, follow along, share the episode with a whiskey friend, and leave a quick rating on Apple or Spotify—what celebrity bottle should we break down next?voice over Whiskey Thief Add for SOFLSupport the showhttps://www.scotchybourbonboys.com The Scotchy bourbon Boys are #3 in Feedspots Top 60 whiskey podcasts in the world https://podcast.feedspot.com/whiskey_podcasts/

Send us a textA roasty Lebanese single malt takes center stage as we trade Kentucky comfort for global curiosity, tracing a bottle discovered in Chicago back to an eight-generation family distillery. We score it live, debate the finish, and explain why it belongs on a bourbon lover's shelf.• origins of Middle East single malt and Riachi family legacy• why imperial dark malt tastes like coffee and chocolate• proof, legs, and how viscosity shapes perception• tasting notes from toasted coconut to burnt graham• finish debate and the campfire echo• price-to-value case and dessert-pour pairings• upcoming lineup: Starward and other world malts• how the barrel bottle breakdown scoring works• community chat highlights and live feedback• platforms, merch, and where to leave reviewsPlease go do that if you haven't. And then also you can always super chat us on YouTube. And then also you can always super chat us on YouTube. And then make sure that you know we also are on Patreon. So go check out the Patreon levels, those are pretty cool. And you can subscribe to us or become members.Ever tasted a Lebanese single malt that smells like a coffee shop at closing time and sips like dessert by a campfire? We tracked down Levant Dark Malt after a Chicago trip with our friend Martin Duffy, then brought it home for a full barrel bottle breakdown. What we found was a roasty, chocolate-forward whiskey from an eight-generation family distillery that refuses to copy Scotland or Kentucky and instead speaks in its own voice.We start with the story: a Lebanese producer blending winery heritage and distilling tradition since 1839. From there, we dig into the grain choice—imperial dark malt roasted deep—why that matters for aroma, and how the 86-proof bottling changes the mouthfeel. On the nose, we call out toasted coconut, dark chocolate, and espresso; on the palate, it swings from burnt graham cracker to chocolate Malt-O-Meal with a nutty toast. The finish is a gentle ember—more glow than smoke—medium length with a soft char that keeps the roasted profile alive.If your bar leans bourbon, this is an easy gateway into world malts. If you collect globally, it's a distinctive regional expression worth a dedicated spot on the shelf. We tally scores live, argue body versus finish, share pairing ideas (dark chocolate, biscotti, mild cigars), and land on a verdict that balances flavor, price, and approachability. Stick around to hear what's next as we line up Australia's Starward and other bottles for “Whiskey Without Borders.”Liked the ride across regions? Follow the show, drop a review with five stars, and share this episode with a friend who thinks whiskey has to come from one place. Your support helps us bring more bottles—and more stories—into the glass.voice over Whiskey Thief Add for SOFLSupport the showhttps://www.scotchybourbonboys.com The Scotchy bourbon Boys are #3 in Feedspots Top 60 whiskey podcasts in the world https://podcast.feedspot.com/whiskey_podcasts/

Send us a textWe lay out a practical plan for managing a growing bourbon collection, from storage and oxidation to what to revisit and what to finish. We taste and score Booker's Kentucky Tea 2023-03 to show how proof, time, and a splash of water change the glass.• why open bottles get forgotten and how to prioritize revisits• hangovers, mash bills, and why rye can hit harder• rickhouse aroma as the benchmark bourbon profile• oxidation's role in softening heat and boosting flavor• storage best practice: upright, cool, dark, consistent• why low-fill bottles need to be finished first• decanting, splitting, and simple ways to preserve• rotation, revisit shelves, and kill-a-bottle nights• trading, gifting, and letting go of hype bottles• Booker's Kentucky Tea tasting notes and scoring• proofing with water and how flavor shifts• shelf space offenders and smarter organizationMake sure that you listen or watch us on Facebook, YouTube, Instagram, X, TikTok, Apple, iHeart, Spotify, and become a member. Leave good feedback and those five-star reviews. Join Patreon. Remember, drink responsibly. Don't drink and drive. Live your life uncut and unfiltered.Ever stare at a wall of whiskey and think, “I've got nothing to pour”? We've been there. This episode is a practical guide for collectors who want less overwhelm and more great glasses. We map out how to manage a growing bourbon stash, why certain bottles bloom after months, and the storage choices that keep open pours tasting their best.We start with the real reasons bottles get forgotten—new release chasing, seasonal pours, special-occasion hoarding—and how oxidation can be your friend. You'll learn why weeded bourbons often soften into caramel and vanilla, how high-rye mash bills can bring spice and hangover risk, and why the rickhouse aroma is a north star for what bourbon should smell like. Then we get hands-on: upright storage, cool and dark placement, and the “quarter-bottle rule” for finishing low-fills before they fade. We also share easy strategies to reduce inventory without regret: monthly rotations, revisit shelves, bottle shares, trades, and gifting bottles you don't reach for.To prove how time matters, we revisit Booker's Kentucky Tea 2023-03 at barrel strength and score it live. The nose opens to vanilla bean and light florals when you nose high in the glass. The body is thick and coating, the palate leans vanilla-cherry cola, and the finish runs long and sweet with oak. A few drops of water shift it toward wood and balance the heat—an object lesson in proofing to taste. Along the way, we swap stories about vintage finds, shelf-space offenders, and the difference between shelf trophies and true drinkers.If your bar looks like a rickhouse, this is your nudge to make it work for you. Drink what you love, share more, hoard less, and revisit before you replace. If you enjoyed this one, subscribe, leave a five-star review on Apple or iHeart, and share it with a friend who needs a better plan for their bourbon shelf.voice over Whiskey Thief Add for SOFLSupport the showhttps://www.scotchybourbonboys.com The Scotchy bourbon Boys are #3 in Feedspots Top 60 whiskey podcasts in the world https://podcast.feedspot.com/whiskey_podcasts/

Send us a textWe map how the American whiskey market cools from a frenzy to a focused, data-driven industry and why that's a win for drinkers. More barrels, smarter releases, and price corrections point to a year of better access and stronger value.• bourbon boom meeting reality in 2026• production ramps, tech upgrades, and inventory management• allocations easing and core labels returning to shelves• drink less, drink better mindset shaping demand• price fatigue, SRP resets, and secondary dynamics• aging strategies, finishes, and blending creativity• exports, tariffs, and domestic shelf competition• what smart forecasting means for future releases• why availability and value improve for drinkersGo and leave us a five-star review, write a reviewWant to know if the bourbon boom is ending or just evolving? We dig into the 2026 American whiskey outlook with straight talk on supply, demand, and what really determines whether a bottle sits on the shelf or vanishes on drop day. After years of aggressive expansion, major distilleries are moving from growth-at-all-costs to smart inventory management, strategic pauses, and tech-driven consistency. That shift, paired with a more selective “drink less, drink better” audience, is reshaping pricing, releases, and how brands earn trust beyond the hype.We break down the big forces at work: millions of barrels finally maturing into wider availability, the return of core labels to shelves, and why allocations feel different when production catches up. Expect more thoughtful age-stated expressions, creative finishes that add depth rather than noise, and fewer shortcuts as producers compete on substance. We also unpack tariffs and exports, the tug-of-war between on-premise and retail, and the real metrics distillers use—velocity, demographics, and inflation—to plan what you'll be able to buy two, five, and ten years from now.For drinkers, the news is encouraging. Less artificial scarcity, more stable pricing on everyday winners, and a richer lineup of older and better-crafted releases mean you can skip the frenzy and focus on flavor. Whether you chase unicorns or value sleepers, the next chapter favors curiosity, patience, and honest drinking. If you're ready for a clear-eyed look at where bourbon goes next—and how to make the most of it—pour a glass and join us. If this breakdown helped, follow the show, leave a five-star review, and share it with a friend who still thinks the hunt is the only game in town.voice over Whiskey Thief Add for SOFLSupport the showhttps://www.scotchybourbonboys.com The Scotchy bourbon Boys are #3 in Feedspots Top 60 whiskey podcasts in the world https://podcast.feedspot.com/whiskey_podcasts/

Send us a textFive heavy hitters enter a blind tasting; a tie forces a live tiebreak and the crown goes to Old Man Winter With a prestige French oak finish. We trade hype for flavor, argue proof vs. balance, and learn how availability shapes a worthy Scotchy Bourbon Boys “Bourbon of the year.”• sponsors thanked and distillery updates shared• lineup set for the blind: five bourbons, one wild card on the side• simple scoring rules agreed, color coding to prevent bias• first-pass notes on cola, peanut, vanilla, and fruit-forward profiles• proof chat and how it affects palate, not just heat• debate on noses vs palates, dryness vs sweetness• tally confusion resolved, two-way tie identified• audience tiebreak selects Old Man Winter as winner• value and availability weighed against rarity and price• honorable mentions and how oxidation changes bottles over timeMake sure that you leave us good feedback on Apple and iHeart and Spotify five-star rating and everything. Leave a review and then become members.What happens when you strip away labels, lock in a scoring system, and let the glass do the talking? We gathered the full crew, poured five of the year's most talked-about bourbons completely blind, and chased the truth through cola notes, peanut vibes, dessert-like vanilla, and bright, fruit-forward finishes. The lineup was stacked: Knob Creek 21, Russell's Reserve 13 (2025), A Midwinter Night's Dram, Cathedral French Oak, and Old Man Winter from Preservation. Expectations were sky high for the heavy hitters—but the scoreboard had other plans.We walk you through the tasting rules, the early favorites, and the turning point when pour number three changed the room's mood. Proof chasers met balance seekers as a silky 90s-proof contender outperformed its label, while a 110-proof nose bomb turned out more polarizing on the palate than predicted. Cathedral French Oak cast a spell on the nose. Knob 21 delivered oak-driven structure. Russell's 13 flashed that rich sweetness many love. Midwinter offered juicy fruit and charm. But the question we kept asking was simple: which glass makes you want another pour?By the end, scores tied between two colors and we pulled in a live audience to break it. The winner? Old Man Winter—an underdog that paired layered fruit, spice control, and a welcoming finish with the practical upside of being findable at retail. We dig into why availability matters for a “Bourbon of the Year,” what blind tasting reveals about our biases, and how time in the bottle can flip your rankings weeks later. Stick around for honorable mentions, lessons learned from oxidation, and a reminder that great whiskey doesn't always wear the most expensive label.If you enjoyed this blind battle, follow the show, share it with a bourbon friend, and drop your own top pick of the year in a review. Your palate belongs in this conversation.voice over Whiskey Thief Add for SOFLSupport the showhttps://www.scotchybourbonboys.com The Scotchy bourbon Boys are #3 in Feedspots Top 60 whiskey podcasts in the world https://podcast.feedspot.com/whiskey_podcasts/

Send us a textWe question why champagne owns midnight and chart a path for bourbon to claim 12:01 with a simple, shared ritual called the Midnight Pour. We also review Old Louisville's Cathedral, a Bardstown blend finished in 300-year French oak, and share community updates and ways to support the show.• why bubbles dominate the countdown and how ritual drives tradition• how bourbon's brand voice skews contemplative and misses the moment• blueprint for a Midnight Pour and a simple signature New Year's serve• social-first ideas to make bourbon visible, repeatable and inclusive• Old Louisville Cathedral bottle breakdown and scoring• shoutouts to listeners, gear talk and mini barrel project• reminders to drink responsibly and plan a safe ride• where to find us online and how to support the podcastwww.scotchyburbonboys.com for all things Scotchy Bourbon Boys, Glens, t‑shirts, bourbon balls, orderMake sure that whether you listen to us or watch us, that you give us good feedbackJoin we are on Patreon, our $10 Patreon, you got to check that out because after six months, you get a decent amount of stuffAlso on YouTube, there's the super chatsMake sure you follow us on Facebook, YouTube, Instagram, X, and TikTokDo not drink and drive. Designated drivers are fantasticMidnight gets the fireworks, the kiss, and the champagne pop—but what if bourbon claimed the next minute? We take a hard look at how bubbles became the default celebration drink and map out a practical, repeatable ritual that lets whiskey own 12:01. The idea is simple and social: a one‑ounce Midnight Pour, raised together, followed by a signature afterpour that's easy to build at any party. No lectures. No elitism. Just a clear, shared moment that anyone—new sipper or seasoned collector—can join.We unpack the psychology of celebration, from effervescence and spectacle to the way rituals anchor holidays. Champagne mastered the countdown with visuals and tradition; bourbon leaned into firesides and heritage. That brand posture works all winter but misses the energy at midnight. So we reframe the lane: champagne is for the kiss, bourbon is for the promise—new goals, new risks, new chapters. To make it real, we outline a simple serve (think one ounce bourbon, a touch of maple or honey, big cube, orange peel) and a social playbook that shows friends clinking rocks glasses at 12:01. Make it visible. Make it repeatable. Let the ritual spread.We also dive into a rare tasting: Old Louisville's Cathedral, a Bardstown-crafted blend finished in French oak from timber selected for the Notre Dame restoration. Expect assertive oak, leather, char, and a long, tobacco‑tilted finish with a remarkably balanced body. If you love aged profiles over sweetness, this pour sings and underscores why bourbon excels at meaning and momentum after the countdown.Join us as we sketch a new tradition that doesn't replace champagne, but completes the night. If the Midnight Pour speaks to you, share it with a friend, tag us with your 12:01 toast, and help us build a ritual worth keeping. Subscribe, leave a review, and tell us your signature afterpour recipe. Cheers to promises kept.voice over Whiskey Thief Add for SOFLSupport the showhttps://www.scotchybourbonboys.com The Scotchy bourbon Boys are #3 in Feedspots Top 60 whiskey podcasts in the world https://podcast.feedspot.com/whiskey_podcasts/

Send us a textA once-in-seven-years holiday release becomes the centerpiece of our Christmas bottle breakdown, with aromas of baked bread, eggnog, and allspice leading to a cacao-tinged, long finish. We share distillery stories, explain our rating system, and end with gratitude for six seasons of community.• Middle West Spirits sponsor intro and grain-to-glass ethos• Giveaway hiccup and winner announcement• Closing the 12 Days of Christmas challenge• Old Louisville Whiskey Company visit tips and shoutouts• Very Old Saint Nick Christmas Dream context and pour• Nose notes of allspice, nutmeg, clove, baked apple• Body and mouthfeel: viscous, warm, fireplace-ready• Taste profile: bread pudding, vanilla, cherry, balanced spice• Finish: cacao, tart apple, medium hug, long fade• Transparent scoring and the rare butt up up bonus• Season milestones, platforms, and community thanksMake sure you check out the podcast on the website. Plus, also check out our store. There's T-shirts, Glencairns, and bourbon balls available for sale. Whether you watch or listen to us, make sure that you leave good feedback and good reviews. Everybody out there, go to Apple and leave a five-star review. Get our 4.1 up to like a 4.7.A seven-year wait is a big promise for any whiskey. We open Very Old Saint Nick Christmas Dream to see if the bottle delivers on the hype—and the first inhale already feels like a holiday kitchen. Think allspice, nutmeg, clove, and an eggnog whisper over warm, baked bread. From there, we walk through our full bottle breakdown—nose, body, taste, and finish—while sharing the road stories and tasting room moments that shaped how we understood this pour.We set the stage with a quick toast to craft: Middle West Spirits' grain-to-glass philosophy and Old Louisville Whiskey Company's hospitality. Then we get into the glass. The body is rich and steady, legs thick and slow, the hug right in the pocket for a winter night. On the palate, the whiskey shifts into bread pudding with vanilla and cherry, then leans into a disciplined spice stack where allspice ties everything together. Even folks who usually avoid “spice-forward” profiles found the balance compelling. The finish runs long with a grown-up cacao note and a tart apple pop before the warmth fades—structured, reflective, and perfect for lingering conversation.Along the way, you'll hear why we use a transparent rating system, how a rare “butt up up” bonus is earned, and what it takes for a seasonal release to feel honest rather than gimmicky. We also celebrate community—six years of shows, the friendships formed over shared pours, and the way a good bottle can turn a night into a memory. If you're hunting a holiday centerpiece or curious about how to evaluate special releases, this one's for you.If you enjoyed this, follow the show, share it with a whiskey friend, and drop a five-star review on Apple. Tell us your favorite seasonal pour and what you're opening next—let's keep the holiday cheer flowing.voice over Whiskey Thief Add for SOFLSupport the showhttps://www.scotchybourbonboys.com The Scotchy bourbon Boys are #3 in Feedspots Top 60 whiskey podcasts in the world https://podcast.feedspot.com/whiskey_podcasts/

Send us a textWe face off two 2025 Booker's batches—By The Pond and Phantom Pipes—using our barrel bottle breakdown to score nose, body, taste, and finish, and crown our Bourbon of the Year. Along the way we share holiday chaos, AI artwork laughs, and a few road-warrior stories from Ohio and Kentucky.• sponsor shout to Middle West Spirits and Michelone Reserve• housekeeping on platforms, reviews, and merch• recap of Christmas party at Gervasi and community support• AI cartoon art reveal and behind-the-scenes banter• details on proofs, ages, and batch stories for both releases• structured nose, palate, body, and finish comparisons• scoring rubric and tie-break decisions• why oxygen time changed Phantom Pipes dramatically• declaring Phantom Pipes the Scotchy Bourbon Boys' Booker's of the Year• giveaways, membership perks, and holiday episode plansBecome members and write reviews. If you want to get in on this sample thing, the 12 days of samples… follow us on the Scotchy Bourbon Boys, scroll back through the 12 days of sample giveaways, complete the challenges and comment done. Next Tuesday night will be the randomizing of all the names for the 12 winners.Two Booker's, one crown, and a whole lot of flavor. We lined up By The Pond and Phantom Pipes—near-twin proofs, different backstories—and ran them through our barrel bottle breakdown to see which pour truly delivers. By The Pond brings a friendly vanilla nose, sweet brown sugar entry, and a classic Kentucky finish that drifts dry with clove and anise. Phantom Pipes starts hotter on the nose but opens into buttery brown sugar, cinnamon-toast vibes, and a toffee-rich finish that just won't quit. The twist: Phantom gets better the longer it sits, turning a good sip into a great one once it breathes.We dig into the batch stories—the backyard refuge that became a place of peace and the ceiling of “pipes to nowhere” that fueled relentless tinkering—and talk about how narrative influences expectations. Then we let the whiskey do the talking. Using a simple rubric (nose and body out of four, taste and finish out of five), we score both pours across multiple passes. By The Pond shines early and stays steady; Phantom Pipes evolves in real time, gaining depth, sweetness, and a longer, cleaner finish. It's a photo finish, but the edge goes to Phantom Pipes as our Scotchy Bourbon Boys Booker's of the Year.If you're a Booker's fan searching for tasting notes, bourbon reviews, and which 2025 batch to buy, this breakdown has you covered. We also share trip highlights from Ohio and Kentucky, laugh through some AI artwork of the crew, and preview our holiday plans. Pour a glass, give it a minute, and taste along with us. If you enjoy the show, tap follow, leave a five-star review, and share this episode with a friend who loves barrel-proof bourbon—then tell us which batch wins your glass.voice over Whiskey Thief Add for SOFLSupport the showhttps://www.scotchybourbonboys.com The Scotchy bourbon Boys are #3 in Feedspots Top 60 whiskey podcasts in the world https://podcast.feedspot.com/whiskey_podcasts/

Send us a textWe line up 2025 Booker's batches, debate what makes the brand's core profile, and fight our way to a clear winner. By The Pond earns the crown after a tight contest, while the tequila-finished Reserve sparks a big debate about tradition versus innovation.• quick setup on Middle West ad spot and Kentucky bourbon focus• live studio energy with Tiny, Super Nash and CT• tasting Barry's Batch 01 with brown sugar and classic heat• tasting By The Pond 02 with rickhouse nose and silky fruit• tasting Jerry's Batch 03 with peanut, nougat and honey• tasting Reserve with El Tesoro finish and peppery agave• debate on house style, oak, char and finish integrity• palate fatigue, water resets and scoring method chaos• consensus: By The Pond 02 named Booker's of the Year• playful blends of batches to explore flavor layering• preview of afternoon Bourbon Of The Year lineup• club updates, merch, bourbon balls and membership pushesCheck us out on Apple, iHeart and Spotify. Leave us good reviews and a five-star review. Become a member on Facebook or YouTube. Join the 12 Days Of Christmas challenge: reply “done” to each daily post to enter the 23rd drawing.Four pours. One crown. We set out to name our Booker's of the Year and wound up in a spirited brawl over flavor, finish, and what makes a true Booker's. With Barry's Batch (01), By The Pond (02), Jerry's Batch (03), and the Reserve finished in El Tesoro tequila barrels on the table, we compare notes on rickhouse aroma, brown sugar depth, peanut-nougat warmth, and that unmistakable Kentucky hug.Our first pass paints the field: 01 brings classic Beam character with brown sugar and a firm oak spine; 03 leans into peanut, honey, and candy-bar texture with the softest proof feel; the Reserve surprises with a peppery agave lift that challenges expectations of the line. Then 02 steals the show. Once we bounce between glasses and reset our palates, “By The Pond” blooms with a rickhouse nose, silky fruit, and balanced oak, finishing long without scraping the palate. It's the most complete sip of the bunch—familiar, expressive, and deeply satisfying.We don't stop at tasting. We tussle over scoring, call out palate fatigue at high proof, and even blend across batches to test how fruit, char, and nougat stack. The bigger conversation threads through every pour: tradition versus innovation. Can a tequila finish still feel like Booker's? How much char is enough? What does the rickhouse note tell you about age and barrel selection? Whether you're chasing 2025 bottles or building your Booker's library, this roundup gives you a clear map of strengths, trade-offs, and the bottle we'd grab first.Raise a glass with us as we crown By The Pond (2025-02) the winner, with major respect to Jerry's Batch for easy charm and the Reserve for bold experimentation. If you enjoyed the ride, follow the show, share this episode with a bourbon friend, and drop your own Booker's rankings in a review—your nosing notes might make the next show.voice over Whiskey Thief Add for SOFLSupport the showhttps://www.scotchybourbonboys.com The Scotchy bourbon Boys are #3 in Feedspots Top 60 whiskey podcasts in the world https://podcast.feedspot.com/whiskey_podcasts/

Send us a textWe taste and rate Knob Creek 21 with a rich, cherry cola nose, layered fruit on the palate, and a long, peppery finish while sharing holiday giveaways, community release hunts, and party plans. The bourbon balls are back, the 12 Days of Bourbon starts, and the Ohio drop stories keep the bourbon network buzzing.• 12 Days of Bourbon giveaway rules and how to enter• Christmas party details at Jervasi Still House• Ohio OHLQ surprise release strategy and trades• Knob Creek 21 tasting: nose, body, taste, finish• Proof and aging balance at 21 years• Value, MSRP, presentation, and availability• Comparisons with Pappy and high-age profiles• Final score using the Old Louisville breakdownTell your friends, your neighbors, that tell everybody about the Scotchy Bourbon Boys, get the word out thereKnock on wood, then knock back a pour—because we finally got our hands on Knob Creek 21, and it's not the oak bomb you might expect. We walk through a full sensory breakdown of this 21-year release at 100 proof, from the cherry cola and Luxardo-like pop on the nose to a blackberry-laced palate and a long, pepper-tobacco finish that sticks around for minutes. If you've wondered whether a high-age bourbon can keep its fruit without going bitter or tired, this is the conversation you want.We set the stage with holiday momentum: bourbon balls soaked in Liberty Pole and Early Times, a big Christmas party at Jervasi, and our 12 Days of Bourbon giveaway where daily tasks boost your odds to win two-ounce samples and a bonus barrel pick. Then we swap stories from Ohio's OHLQ surprise releases—Weller CYPB, Full Proof, Blanton's Gold, EH Taylor—plus the art of the friendly trade that gets the right bottle into the right hands. It's a snapshot of bourbon culture at its best: community, curiosity, and shared pours.The core of our session is a careful tasting and score using the Old Louisville Whiskey Company Barrel Bottle Breakdown. We dig into why 100 proof works here, how the body stays rich without turning hot, and what “not over-oaked at 21” actually tastes like. Along the way, we place Knob Creek 21 alongside heavy hitters like Pappy 20 and 23, and talk through wood management, barrel selection, and value at an MSRP in the mid-$200s. Our verdict: a top-tier release that feels special, drinks beautifully, and earns its spot on the shelf.If you love Knob Creek's profile and want it elevated by time rather than buried under it, this pour belongs on your shortlist. Jump in for tasting notes, release strategies, and all the details on how to win our holiday samples. And if you're enjoying the ride, subscribe, share the show with a bourbon friend, and leave a quick review—your support helps us bring more great bottles and better conversations to your feed.voice over Whiskey Thief Add for SOFLSupport the showhttps://www.scotchybourbonboys.com The Scotchy bourbon Boys are #3 in Feedspots Top 60 whiskey podcasts in the world https://podcast.feedspot.com/whiskey_podcasts/

Send us a textWe taste and rate Jim Beam Winter Reserve with our barrel bottle breakdown, then map where it fits in winter sipping, cocktails, and the budget shelf. Holiday plans, party specials, and a practical look at value over hype round out the pour.• double toasted six-year bourbon with vanilla-forward profile• light nose, medium body, toasted marshmallow on the palate• modest finish, high drinkability at 86 proof• ideal for old fashioneds and holiday gatherings• comparisons with Beam Double Oak, Early Times BiB, Benchmark• value over scarcity, pricing versus pleasure• final score: 9.5 out of 18• Christmas party details at Jervasi with Weller 107 and cigar specialMake sure that you also listen to us on Apple, iHeart, Spotify, or any of the other formats that you can listen to podcasts. Whether you listen or watch us, make sure that you subscribe, become members. And then also on the audio podcast, leave us a five-star review and good feedback.A winter pour that overdelivers on comfort and undercuts the hype—this one is built for a crackling fire, a plate of bourbon balls, and friends who want something easy but not empty. We open Jim Beam Winter Reserve, a six-year bourbon finished in two toasted barrels, and put it through our full Old Louisville barrel bottle breakdown: nose, body, taste, finish, and a final score that surprised even us. Expect light aromatics, a fuller-than-expected body for 86 proof, a toasted marshmallow and vanilla core, and a finish that whispers more than roars.We get specific about where this bottle fits. If you crave caramel and vanilla over heat and tannin, Winter Reserve hits the lane. It's a crowd-pleaser for holiday parties, a gentle introduction for new bourbon drinkers, and a secret weapon in an old fashioned. We share why the double-toasted approach amplifies dessert notes without turning cloying, and how a simple cocktail build—orange peel, bitters, Demerara—lets those flavors shine. This is the pour you can sip, serve, and still feel good about the price.Along the way, we talk real-world value. Does a $26 bottle earn shelf space next to allocated heavy hitters? We compare against Beam Double Oak, Early Times Bottled-in-Bond, and Benchmark picks, and talk aging quirks, warehouse heat, and why price rarely scales with pleasure. We close with our final score—9.5/18—and the key takeaway: not every winter winner needs to be rare. Some just need to be right.If you enjoy honest tastings, budget-friendly recommendations, and practical cocktail tips, hit follow, share this with a bourbon friend, and drop us a review with your favorite winter sipper. Which bottle is your cold-weather go-to?Add for SOFL If You Have GohstsSupport the showhttps://www.scotchybourbonboys.com The Scotchy bourbon Boys are #3 in Feedspots Top 60 whiskey podcasts in the world https://podcast.feedspot.com/whiskey_podcasts/

Send us a textWe chase the full Colonel E.H. Taylor story, from the man who pushed Bottled‑in‑Bond into law to the modern line that swings from Small Batch to Four Grain and Warehouse C. We rate pours live, debate scoring, and map how grain, wood, and aging shape flavor and finish.• EH Taylor's life, reforms, and heated warehouses• Small Batch nose, body, taste, and finish breakdown• How Single Barrel and Barrel Proof change the profile• Rye vs bourbon in the Taylor lineup• Four Grain tasting with a standout finish• Limiteds explained: Amaranth, 18 Year Marriage, Cured Oak, Seasoned Wood, Tornado, Warehouse C• Old Louisville sponsor shout and rating system• Community updates, rankings, and where to listen• 12 Days of Bourbon giveaway mechanicsBecome a member because becoming a member gets you some things, and then also can get some of your chats along onto that where we're seeing it at the timeA colonel, a castle, and a tornado—this pour-packed episode dives straight into why E.H. Taylor isn't just hype, he's the blueprint. We trace Taylor's fingerprints across bourbon history, from steam‑heated warehouses and Bottled‑in‑Bond standards to the modern lineup that keeps collectors camping in line. Then we put the whiskeys in the glass and let the ratings fly.We start with Small Batch and unpack why it punches above its weight: a vanilla‑forward nose with apricot and cherry cordial, rich legs, and a medium, oak‑tinged finish that nudges for another sip. From there we step into the heavy hitters—Single Barrel precision, Barrel Proof power, and a Straight Rye that swerves minty and bright—and talk about what changes in the glass as proof, grain, and warehouse floors shift. We also spotlight the fabled limiteds: Four Grain's candy‑red fruit and clove, Amaranth's nutty depth, 18 Year Marriage's layered elegance, Cured Oak and Seasoned Wood's stave science, Tornado Surviving's weather‑worn magic, and the Warehouse C release that reads like dessert without losing its backbone.Along the way, we share tasting notes you can actually use, debate our house scoring system, and even land a rare perfect mark for Four Grain thanks to that long, fruit‑laden finish. If you're new to the line, you'll leave with a smart game plan for what to hunt first. If you're deep in the racks, you'll pick up nuances that make your next pour more rewarding. Either way, it's a masterclass in how grain bills, wood seasoning, and aging environments shape flavor—and why Taylor's legacy still sets the pace.Subscribe on your favorite podcast app, drop a review if you learned something, and tell us which EH Taylor expression deserves the crown. Got a unicorn story or a sleeper pick we missed? Share it—we'll feature the best takes in a future episode.Add for SOFL If You Have GohstsSupport the showhttps://www.scotchybourbonboys.com The Scotchy bourbon Boys are #3 in Feedspots Top 60 whiskey podcasts in the world https://podcast.feedspot.com/whiskey_podcasts/

Send us a textWe sit down with Log Still's Wally Dent at Kentucky Bourbon Festival to talk festival evolution, bottle buyers and flippers, and how a modern distillery builds fans for life. From a 2,500-seat amphitheater and B&Bs to a Louisville steakhouse and the Remington 1860 collaboration, we cover brand, blend, and the business behind the bottle.• how festival improvements changed buyer behavior• exclusives, flippers, and the value of time• building hype versus delivering real experience• distribution hurdles and state tasting rules• Log Still's 1860 roots and campus highlights• creating on-ramps via tours, trains, and stays• Louisville tasting room and fine dining play• market cooldown, THC competition, and pricing• Remington 1860 blend, story, and use case• community moments with historic dusty pours• Kentucky policy support and trail tourism• safety, gratitude, and staying fan-focusedwww.scotchybourbonboys.com for all things boysLike us on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, XListen to us on Apple, iHeart, and SpotifyGood bourbon equals good times and good friendsMake sure you don't drink and drive and drink responsiblyLive your life uncut and unfilteredThe lines are longer, the bottles rarer, and the stakes higher—so how do you turn festival frenzy into lifelong fans? We sit down with Log Still Distillery's Wally Dent at Kentucky Bourbon Festival to unpack the new bourbon reality: smarter line management, a surge of bottle buyers, and the unavoidable presence of flippers. Wally doesn't sugarcoat the economics, but he makes a compelling case for where the real value lives—memorable experiences that outlast hype and bring people back.We explore Log Still's unique edge: a heritage that reaches to 1860 and a modern, hospitality-first campus built for discovery. Think a 2,500-seat amphitheater, bed-and-breakfast stays, a lake, chapel, train rides from New Haven, and a tasting room with a fine dining steakhouse on Louisville's Whiskey Row. That ecosystem transforms a quick visit into a ritual. It's brand building where memory, not marketing spin, does the heavy lifting.Wally takes us behind the shelf wars too—tight distribution, state-by-state tasting rules, and a beverage alcohol market cooling at the edges while whiskey and tequila hold. He shares why breaking through with a new label is harder than it looks, how discovery programs matter, and why recognition wins. That's where the Remington 1860 collaboration comes in: a mid-$30s, six-year-forward blend designed for hunt clubs and campfires, with a back label that lets you log the day. It's a bottle that feels familiar, drinks beautifully, and invites repeat buys without the drama of a lottery line.Along the way, we raise a glass to community moments—like pouring a 1938-distilled, 1946-bottled-in-bond dusty for tour guests—and acknowledge Kentucky's policy support that keeps the trail thriving. If you care about bourbon beyond the chase, this conversation delivers: practical strategies for brand growth, honest talk about exclusives and flippers, and a fresh look at how experiences turn casual sippers into advocates. Subscribe, share with a friend who loves the hunt, and leave a review telling us your smartest takeaway from Wally's playbook.Add for SOFL If You Have GohstsSupport the showhttps://www.scotchybourbonboys.com The Scotchy bourbon Boys are #3 in Feedspots Top 60 whiskey podcasts in the world https://podcast.feedspot.com/whiskey_podcasts/

Send us a textWe celebrate bourbon heritage, wild turkey conservation, and how a surplus of aged barrels sparked the creation of Russell's Reserve. Gregg Snyder joins us to share stories of Jimmy Russell, warehouse wisdom, and why Russell's 13 and 15 hit so differently.• annual Thanksgiving special with Gregg Snyder• turkey hunting passion and NWTF conservation work• wild vs farm turkey taste and preparation• cooking methods for wild turkey including nuggets and piccata• tracking tips using footprints and droppings• path from Brown‑Forman cooperage to Wild Turkey leadership• mandate to protect tradition and avoid shortcuts• how inventory analysis led to Russell's Reserve• naming, first bottling, and early pricing strategy• bourbon vs Tennessee whiskey clarity• maturation sites including Camp Nelson and McBrayer• Russell's 13 vs 15 tasting contrasts and oxidation talk• Rare Breed blend concept and rising entry proofs• lessons from legends and blending today at Four BranchesMake sure you check us out on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, X, and TikTok, along with Apple, iHeart, and Spotify. Whether you listen or watch us, make sure you like, listen, subscribe, and leave good feedback. Also, make sure you become a member.A holiday pour tastes better with a story, and this one comes straight from the rickhouse. We welcome industry veteran Gregg Snyder to trace the line from turkey tracks and conservation fields to the barrel floors of Wild Turkey, sharing how an overlooked inventory problem lit the spark for Russell's Reserve and why protecting tradition still matters in a world of shortcuts.We start with the outdoors: the rush of a dawn gobble, how to tell a gobbler's print from a hen's, and why the wild bird's best eating is in the breast. Gregg breaks down simple, crowd-pleasing prep—crispy nuggets, teriyaki kebabs, even a bright, silky piccata—then connects that kitchen craft to the patient arc of bourbon maturation. From Brown‑Forman's cooperage to his tenure running operations at Wild Turkey, he explains the quiet rule that shaped a generation of whiskey: never change how the whiskey is made. No enzyme tricks, no shortcuts—just wood, time, and careful selection.Then we open the vault. Gregg recounts proposing a new bourbon to honor Jimmy Russell—Russell's Reserve—born from aging stock the spreadsheets wouldn't touch. We talk warehouses from Camp Nelson to McBrayer, the effect of elevation and airflow, entry proof shifts, and why Rare Breed's blend-first logic still sings. A guided tasting squares Russell's 13 against 15: caramel-vanilla richness vs oak-forward structure. If you love dessert-like depth, 13 feels like a sweet spot; if you crave tannin and cigar-box edges, 15 scratches that itch. Along the way you'll hear the kind of Jimmy Russell stories that make you smile and pour another ounce.This one blends heritage, practical tasting insights, and the warmth of a Thanksgiving table. If bourbon history, Wild Turkey lore, and smart, no‑nonsense tasting notes are your thing, you'll feel right at home. Follow and subscribe on your favorite app, share with a friend who loves Russell's or Rare Breed, and leave a quick review to help more whiskey fans find the show. What's your pick: Russell's 13 or 15—and why?Add for SOFL If You Have GohstsSupport the showhttps://www.scotchybourbonboys.com The Scotchy bourbon Boys are #3 in Feedspots Top 60 whiskey podcasts in the world https://podcast.feedspot.com/whiskey_podcasts/

Send us a textWe share pours, stories, with Amine Karaoud and a big reveal: Old Louisville Whiskey Company is moving into a 1936 Seagram's warehouse and turning the lights back on for a silent piece of bourbon history. From slow cutting and mingling to launching a $59, 8-year Kentucky Series, we show how tradition powers modern craft.• reviving a historic Seagram's rickhouse campus in Louisville• scaling from 6,000 to 105,000 square feet for storage and bottling• offering copacking, blending, and hosting barrels for small brands• the tunnels, freight elevators, and lore that shaped operations• hiring slow and keeping overhead tight to invest in the liquid• why slow cutting and mingling reduce heat and boost integration• launching the Kentucky Series at 100 proof, eight to eight and a half years• classic 78/10/12 mash profile and non-chill filtering• early Bardstown Bourbon Company distillate and future color cues• custom finishes, single barrels, and on-site experiencesA gold-plated flask and a 1946 dusty set the mood, but the real headline is bigger: Amine Karaoud is moving The Old Louisville Whiskey Company into one of the original Seagram's warehouses, built in 1936 and quiet since the industry slowdown of the 1980s. The campus has a six-barrel freight elevator and a network of tunnels that once kept barrels moving underground from rickhouse to bottling. We're bringing it back to life, consolidating storage, bottling, and tastings under one historic roof while opening the doors to copacking and blending services for smaller brands who need a home for their whiskey.We talk about the craft decisions that shape flavor long before a cork gets pulled. Slow cutting—introducing water gradually in-barrel—lets heat dissipate and coaxes more water-soluble character from oak. After that, mingling gives blends time to integrate, smoothing edges so a $59 bottle doesn't drink “hot” at 100 proof. Those choices are the backbone of our new Kentucky Series: 11 Kentucky barrels, eight to eight and a half years old, non-chill filtered, built on a classic 78/10/12 mash. Expect caramel, toasted almond, and butterscotch on the nose, a medium, balanced palate, and a finish that leans gently dry with oak.We also pull back the curtain on sourcing and transparency. Several barrels come from Bardstown Bourbon Company's early 2016 runs, adding a thread of modern heritage to the blend. Collectible labels that spell KENTUCKY bring a touch of fun without gimmicks; future color changes will signal shifts in distillery or mash bill so enthusiasts can track what's in the glass. Along the way, we share why the new space matters for the community: more room for barrels, a stronger bottling line, and the capacity to help emerging brands move from vision to product within an iconic Louisville landmark.If you love bourbon stories grounded in real process—dusty pours, smart blending, and historic spaces brought back to purpose—this one's for you. Tap follow, share with a friend who chases age-stated value, and leave a review telling us your favorite piece of Seagram's history you'd like to see preserved.Add for SOFL If You Have GohstsSupport the showhttps://www.scotchybourbonboys.com The Scotchy bourbon Boys are #3 in Feedspots Top 60 whiskey podcasts in the world https://podcast.feedspot.com/whiskey_podcasts/

Send us a textWe race from Prohibition to the modern bourbon boom, then settle in for a deep dive on finished whiskey with Dark Arts as our guide. Sponsors, community updates, and a holiday giveaway round out a fast, flavorful hour.• Prohibition's shock and the long road to repeal• WWII ethanol pivot and postwar bourbon export growth• 1964 resolution protecting bourbon's identity• 1970s slump, 1980s reinvention with single barrel and barrel proof• Rat Pack influence and changing bar culture• Tourism, education, and smarter marketing• Tariffs, distribution battles, and capacity growth• Finished bourbon acceptance and flavor innovation• Dark Arts origins, French oak and Armagnac tasting notes• Scores, takeaways, and brand shoutouts• Afterparty move to Facebook with live Zoom linkTune in to the Scotchy Bourbon Boys, become a member, subscribe, and enter the 12 Days of Christmas giveaway: “bourbons and whiskies from Christmas past and Christmas present, and then the one bottle from the Christmas future.”Bourbon doesn't just survive history; it adapts, pivots, and comes back stronger. We kick off with a fast tour from Prohibition's shutdown to the 1964 Congressional move that defined bourbon as a distinctive product of the United States, then through the 70s slump, the 80s reinvention with single barrel and barrel strength, and the 2000s surge driven by smarter marketing, tourism, and a far more educated drinker. Along the way, we unpack why tariffs and distribution shape what you find on shelves, how cooperage and barrel supply affect flavor, and why today's distilleries are betting on both scale and storytelling.Then we pour. Dark Arts takes center stage with two finishes that show how wood can expand a whiskey's world without drowning its roots. The French oak finish lights up the glass with raisin, currant, vanilla sugar cookie, and clove on a plush 108‑proof frame. The Armagnac finish leans into cinnamon toast, caramel, dark fruit, and a finish that refuses to quit, drifting into chocolate and toasted oak. We trade notes on mouthfeel, structure, and balance, and explain why these casks read as integrated rather than gimmicky. If you've ever wondered whether finishing can elevate a well‑made bourbon, this tasting offers a clear, compelling yes.We also shout out friends and sponsors across Kentucky, Indiana, and Ohio, spotlighting experiences from barrel‑pick tours to serious craft dining. If you're mapping a whiskey trip, you'll hear where to book, what to try, and how to make the most of limited releases. Stick around to the end for community updates, our 12 Days of Christmas giveaway, and afterparty details. If you enjoy the ride, tap follow, leave a quick review, and share this with a friend who's ready to upgrade their pour.Add for SOFL If You Have GohstsSupport the showhttps://www.scotchybourbonboys.com The Scotchy bourbon Boys are #3 in Feedspots Top 60 whiskey podcasts in the world https://podcast.feedspot.com/whiskey_podcasts/

Send us a textWe share a club night full of rare pours and smart pairings, then put Hemingway Bourbon and Rye through a dueling bottle breakdown that challenges price bias and highlights finish, body, and balance. Plans shift as we preview Bourbon History Part Two and extend an invite for a Wild Turkey special with Greg.• Crystal Glencairn Club tasting lineup and takeaways• Cheeses, caramels, and pumpkin muffins as pairing tools• Blind compare of KC21 vs KC9 to reset bias• Red Bull palate test and why context changes flavor• Hemingway Bourbon specs, tasting notes, and value score• Hemingway Rye finish profile with rum-seasoned Oloroso casks• Price-to-performance talk and scoring recap• Upcoming Wild Turkey deep-dive with Greg• Annual club meet timing and participation detailsRemember: www.scotchybourbonboys.com — follow us on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, X, and TikTok; listen on iHeartRadio, Apple, Spotify; become a member, subscribe, and leave good feedback because that helps us grow. Good bourbon equals good times and good friends. Don't drink and drive. Live your life responsibly. Drink responsibly and live your life uncut and unfiltered.A porch, a few cigars, and a lineup that made our whole crew lean in—this one starts with community and ends with two bottles that punch above their price. We revisit our Crystal Glencairn Club tasting where Parker Heritage, Hardin's Creek, Knob Creek 21, and Cathedral met cheeses, caramels, and pumpkin muffins. Then we get tactical: a blind Knob Creek 21 vs 9-year comparison to check bias at the door, plus a sneaky Red Bull palate reset that proved how sweetness and acidity can tilt a pour into new territory.From there we dive into Hemingway Whiskey. The bourbon, a Kentucky blend aged six and four years at 98 proof, reads like a cinnamon graham cracker with chocolate and a frosted apple turnover vibe. It's one of the best $40 flavor rides we've had, with a soft, medium finish that fades clean. The rye brings the drama: a blend finished in rum-seasoned Oloroso sherry casks, pouring brown sugar, caramel, and sherry warmth without the harsh greenness that turns some drinkers off rye. Thick legs, lush body, and a finish that keeps talking pushed it ahead in our scoring.We also talk brand craft—the Call family's eight generations, the Ernest Hemingway-inspired design, and why story matters when you pour for friends. If you care about value bottles, smart pairings, and learning how context shapes flavor, you'll leave with new moves for your next lineup. Stick around for a tease of our upcoming Wild Turkey deep-dive with Greg and a reminder to join the club if you want first dibs on picks and annual tastings.If you enjoyed this, follow the show on your favorite podcast app, subscribe on YouTube, and leave a quick review. Share the episode with a friend who loves a good pour and an even better story.Add for SOFL If You Have GohstsSupport the showhttps://www.scotchybourbonboys.com The Scotchy bourbon Boys are #3 in Feedspots Top 60 whiskey podcasts in the world https://podcast.feedspot.com/whiskey_podcasts/

Send us a textA storm knocked out the lights at Maker's Mark, so we built a Private Select by daylight and rain, then dug into how whiskey's flavor science connects to America's past. We rate a “Candied Apple” pick, share cocktail ideas, and trace the path from frontier stills to Bottled‑in‑Bond and Prohibition.• Makers Mark Private Select program and stave choices• Our “Picked In The Dark” blend story and goals• Live tasting and scoring of “Candied Apple”• Caramel vs apple spice palate debate• Cocktail ideas for apple‑cinnamon profiles• Early American distilling and frontier barter• Whiskey taxation and the Whiskey Rebellion• Bottled‑in‑Bond standards and consumer trust• Prohibition, medicinal licenses and speakeasies• Farming, Dust Bowl and economic fallout links• Part two teaser on post‑Prohibition to modern bourbonSubscribe on Apple, Spotify and YouTube, become a member, and leave good feedbackRain hammered the windows, the power went out, and we had a barrel to pick. So we moved to a sunlit tasting room at Maker's Mark and built a Private Select by feel, flashlight, and a lot of palate trust—then named it “Picked In The Dark.” That's the energy we bring to this episode: a hands-on exploration of stave choices, blend strategy, and why nine weeks of finishing can turn a beloved wheated bourbon into something entirely its own.We break down the five stave types and how they shape flavor—sweetness, tannin, chocolate tones, and spice—before opening a “Candied Apple” Private Select that split the room. Expect baked apple on the nose, cinnamon warmth, a bold body, and a finish that lingers. We score it live, argue caramel versus apple spice, and spin off cocktail ideas that make the profile shine: think hot toddy or apple‑cider highball with star anise and maple.Then we widen the lens. Whiskey wasn't just a drink in early America; it was logistics, currency, and tax policy. We trace the arc from colonial rye and corn distilling to the Whiskey Rebellion, the Bottled‑in‑Bond Act's quality revolution, and the messy economics of Prohibition—medicinal permits, speakeasies, soil depletion, and the rise of organized crime. The through line is clear: from stave science to statecraft, bourbon tells the story of how the country built roads, funded wars, and developed taste.If you're curious about Maker's Mark Private Select, love a good tasting debate, or want the real history behind the glass, you'll feel right at home. Tap play, subscribe for part two on post‑Prohibition to modern bourbon, and leave a quick review so more whiskey lovers can find the show.If You Have Gohsts voice over Whiskey Thief Add for SOFLSupport the showhttps://www.scotchybourbonboys.com The Scotchy bourbon Boys are #3 in Feedspots Top 60 whiskey podcasts in the world https://podcast.feedspot.com/whiskey_podcasts/

Send us a textWe set up outside Revival Vintage Spirits and dive into how dusties drink differently, why the bar's pour sizes encourage smarter tasting, and what it means to make rare bottles accessible without the velvet rope. A 1992 Maker's Mark goes head to head with a current bottle, a basement trove of 1946 Dowling surfaces, and plans for Bourbon Festival week unfold with an open invite to join the afterparty.• moving from 600 to 8,000 square feet with a two-floor concept• daily deals, quarter-ounce and half-ounce pours, fair pricing• Maker's Mark 1992 versus modern tasting insights• mellow profiles in dusties versus sharpness in newer releases• try-before-you-buy upstairs bottle shop model• Dowling 1946 discovery story and historical sourcing• Covington's bar ecosystem and community-first mindset• afterparty plans during Kentucky Bourbon Festival• changing Kentucky's vintage spirits law to expand access• how to follow updates on Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, and TikTokMake sure that you like, listen, and subscribe. Check us out Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, X, and also on the podcast formats of Apple, iHeart and Spotify. Make sure that you drink responsibly, don't drink and drive.A sidewalk setup, cigars in hand, and a bar that treats history like something you can actually sip—tonight we camp out at Revival Vintage Spirits in Covington with Brad Bond and the crew to explore why old whiskey often drinks softer, where rare bottles hide in plain sight, and how to taste like a billionaire without paying like one. We go from a 600-square-foot origin story to an 8,000-square-foot playground split between a downstairs bar and an upstairs bottle shop, then roll straight into a side-by-side Maker's Mark comparison: a 1992 “old style sour mash” versus a current bottle. Expect talk of vanilla, butterscotch, proof, and the surprising ways production choices from the 80s and 90s shape what's in your glass today.The night's big reveal is part treasure hunt, part time capsule. A judge buys a century-old house in Maysville and finds a room under the stairs stuffed with spirits, including fourteen Dowling bottles distilled in 1941 and bottled in 1946. Brad breaks down the brand's lineage, Louisville sourcing, and Bardstown bottling, then pours the proof at the bar so you can taste before you buy—no museum vibes, no velvet rope. We also talk quarter-ounce pours, vintage cocktails, and a membership that lets fans cherry-pick new arrivals before they hit the floor.All of this leads to a bigger mission: making vintage spirits accessible. Revival posts daily deals on Instagram and Facebook, welcomes beer and wine drinkers, and collaborates with neighboring bars to keep the scene thriving. There's a Kentucky Bourbon Festival panel on the calendar and an open invite to an afterparty in Elizabethtown, where a 1966 Old Forester will make a cameo. If you've ever wondered whether dusties are worth the chase—or just want a smarter way to explore—pull up a chair and taste along with us.Enjoyed the conversation? Subscribe, share with a friend who loves whiskey, and leave a quick review so more folks can find the show.If You Have Gohsts voice over Whiskey Thief Add for SOFLSupport the showhttps://www.scotchybourbonboys.com The Scotchy bourbon Boys are #3 in Feedspots Top 60 whiskey podcasts in the world https://podcast.feedspot.com/whiskey_podcasts/

Send us a textWe turn Single Barrel Saturday into a game plan, unpacking how Ohio builds the state's biggest bourbon drop, why the community makes the lines worth it, and which bottles deserve your first pick. Ann shares how barrels are selected, allocated, and revealed while we call out sleepers and strategy.• statewide single barrel release logistics and rules• why Ohio's bourbon IQ and culture raise the bar• store opt‑in process, training, and fairness in lines• using the OHLQ app and understanding UPC quirks• allocation logic and how variety is curated by store• value plays at multiple price points, including Dickel 15• sleeper alerts: Horse Soldier, Larceny, Frey Ranch• finish profiles explained: Mizanara, Calvados, Moscatel, Armagnac• bespoke WhistlePig blends and how picks get bottled• team-based barrel selection and palate diversity• tactics for rare targets like Willet purple tops• why the social hunt matters as much as the bottlesGet the OHLQ mobile app, enable push notifications, and subscribe to email for Saturday morning locationsThe countdown ends and the corks begin to pop. Single Barrel Saturday returns with more than 300 Ohio locations, a curated lineup that refuses to repeat itself, and a community energy that feels like bourbon's version of a block party. We brought Ann on to take us behind the scenes: how stores opt in, why allocation rules exist, what makes Ohio the fourth-largest American whiskey market, and how her team balances profiles so every table finds something to love.We get tactical without losing the fun. You'll learn how the OHLQ locator really works, when a UPC reveals a specific barrel (hello, Willet), and why some bottles land in waves months after the pick. We map price-to-proof-to-flavor value plays, call out sleeper hits—think a high-proof, double-digit Horse Soldier and under-the-radar Larceny—and explain the logic behind broader favorites like Dickel 15 that fly early because of low yields and near-barrel-strength bottling. If finishes are your thing, we dig into the flavor impact of Mizanara oak, Calvados, Moscatel, and Armagnac through the Dark Arts lineup and beyond.We also break down how Ohio builds its pick teams—staff, podcasters, bar owners, and seasoned enthusiasts—to triangulate barrels that are good for different reasons: classic, candy-coated, spice-forward, and curveball. Expect real talk on camping vs. store-hopping, looping etiquette, and the smartest first-pick priorities if you're eyeing Willet purple tops or a lone Heaven Hill Bottled-in-Bond single barrel. It's a field guide for a day that's equal parts hunt and hangout, where people open bottles in line and trade tips like set lists.Ready to plan your route? Follow the show, share this episode with your bourbon crew, and turn on OHLQ app notifications so you're first to see Saturday's locations. If you score a sleeper, tag us—we want to know what you cracked first.If You Have Gohsts voice over Whiskey Thief Add for SOFLSupport the showhttps://www.scotchybourbonboys.com The Scotchy bourbon Boys are #3 in Feedspots Top 60 whiskey podcasts in the world https://podcast.feedspot.com/whiskey_podcasts/

Send us a textWe spotlight craft roots, map out Single Barrel Saturday in Ohio, and then dive deep into Old Ezra 7 Barrel Strength—rating it 17/18, debating the finish, and ending with a bottle kill. Along the way we share club perks, holiday party plans, and how to get first shot at our barrel picks.• Middle West Spirits and grain-to-glass ethos• Ohio Single Barrel Saturday process and strategy• Club membership perks and Crystal Glencairn access• Sponsor feature on Old Louisville Whiskey Company• Old Ezra 7 background, mash bill, and value• Detailed tasting notes and scoring debate• Holiday party at Gervasi and travel updates• Tease of 12 Days of Christmas whiskey giveawayContact me on Facebook or YouTube for Maker's Mark Private Select pre-vouchers and to become a Scotchy Bourbon Boys memberA $40 barrel-proof bourbon that actually lives up to the hype? We chased that question all night and landed on Old Ezra 7—a seven-year, 117-proof pour with copper color, brown sugar on the nose, and a cinnamon hug that doesn't quit. Before we pop the cork, we set the stage with a quick tour of craft roots in the Ohio River Valley and why provenance still matters when you're choosing bottles that feel authentic, not algorithm-made.From there we take you inside Ohio's Single Barrel Saturday—a statewide release day with a real selection team, fewer sample-box picks, and more collaboration with distillers and blenders. Think strategy over luck: where to line up, how to plan, and why the experience is as much about community as it is about limited bottles. We also open the doors to our Crystal Glencairn Club: limited spots, a high-end annual tasting with food pairings, first access to barrel picks, and current vouchers for a Maker's Mark Private Select. If you've been waiting for a way in, this is it.Then the main event: Old Ezra 7 vs the usual heavyweights like Booker's and Rare Breed. We break down the mash bill lineage, price consistency, and the surprise factor of a bottle that still rings up at $39.99. On the palate we get caramel, vanilla, dark cherry, and char, followed by that signature cinnamon heat. One of us scores taste and finish a perfect five, the other holds a firm four, averaging to 17/18—rare air for a bottle at this price. We finish with a literal bottle kill, travel plans, our holiday party at Gervasi, and a tease of a 12 Days of Christmas giveaway that will put real whiskey in your hands.If you love value pours, statewide release hunts, and honest tasting notes without the fluff, you're home. Hit play, subscribe, and leave a review to help more bourbon fans find the show. What's your favorite barrel-proof under $50? Tell us—we just might feature it next.If You Have Gohsts voice over Whiskey Thief Add for SOFLSupport the showhttps://www.scotchybourbonboys.com The Scotchy bourbon Boys are #3 in Feedspots Top 60 whiskey podcasts in the world https://podcast.feedspot.com/whiskey_podcasts/

Send us a textWe chase the lore and flavor of Jim Beam Devil's Cut, rate it with a Halloween twist, and compare a fresh crack to a years-open bottle to see how oxidation reshapes vanilla, char, and sweetness. We also spotlight Blood Oath packs to frame value pours against complex blends.• Middle West Spirits shoutout and origin nods• Halloween setup, costumes, community banter• Membership options, perks, and barrel picks• Devil's Cut origin story and extraction concept• Nosing focus on vanilla, char, brown sugar• Body, taste, and finish scores with knife “slashes”• Fresh vs old Devil's Cut side-by-side insights• Value talk under $25 and cocktail ideas• Blood Oath packs overview and tasting comparison• Platform reminders and safe-drinking closeJoin our membership, the Crystal Glenn Carrying Club. Become a member on Facebook or YouTube, subscribe, leave good feedback, and commentWhat happens when Halloween chaos meets a bourbon with a devilish backstory? We dive into Jim Beam Devil's Cut, the whiskey that pulls trapped spirit from barrel staves and blends it back into extra-aged bourbon, then explore why it smells like vanilla extract over warm char and tastes like liquid pudding with a smoky edge. Costumes and laughs aside, we get serious about value, process, and what truly sets this bottle apart at 90 proof and under $25 in many markets.We walk through the nose, body, taste, and finish with a playful “slash” rating, then raise the stakes: a fresh 2025 crack versus a 2021 bottle that's been open for years. The side-by-side reveals how oxidation shifts the profile from vanilla-forward to caramel and toffee, adds a hint of pepper, and slightly deepens the mid-palate. Our practical takeaway is simple and useful—open Devil's Cut and let it evolve. If you love cocktails, we also highlight easy winners like Devil and Cola and Dance with the Devil that lean into its vanilla-char backbone.To round out the night, we contrast Devil's Cut's focused profile with the layered complexity of Blood Oath packs. Think approachable weeknight pour versus special-occasion blend crafted from carefully sourced barrels and finishing casks. Along the way, we share community shoutouts, membership perks, and a few outrageous Halloween surprises that keep the room buzzing. If you're curious about how time, air, and blending shape bourbon, you'll leave with new ideas for your shelf and your next tasting.If you enjoyed the ride, follow and subscribe, leave a rating or review, and share this episode with a friend who loves a good value pour. Tell us your favorite under-$25 bourbon and whether you prefer a fresh crack or a well-breathed bottle.If You Have Gohsts voice over Whiskey Thief Add for SOFLSupport the showhttps://www.scotchybourbonboys.com The Scotchy bourbon Boys are #3 in Feedspots Top 60 whiskey podcasts in the world https://podcast.feedspot.com/whiskey_podcasts/

Send us a textWe sit down inside the hidden speakeasy at the Trail Hotel in Bardstown to taste the house bourbon and rye, tour the amenities, and map out Kentucky Bourbon Festival's President's Club experiences. Heritage, hospitality, and smart design turn a former Holiday Inn into a bourbon lover's basecamp.• location across from Preservation and minutes from Heaven Hill• boutique flip with private patios and enclosed courtyards• oxygen bar, cryotherapy, sauna and IV therapy for recovery• Trail Hotel Bourbon by Green River, 103 proof, 6 years, wheated• flavor notes of honey, dried fruit, light tobacco and grape seed• Trail Hotel Rye 95/5 at 103 proof with pear and apricot• speakeasy access by invite with vintage spirits library• President's Club tastings and releases during KBF• local bars and bottle shops offering try-before-you-buy• Bardstown history from Jesse James to Lincoln's rootswww.scotchybourbonboys.com for all things Scotchy Bourbon Boys. Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and X, also on Apple, iHeart, and Spotify or wherever you listen to podcasts or watch, make sure that you like and subscribe and leave us the feedback. Remember good bourbon equals good times with good friends. Make sure you drink responsibly. Don't drink and drive. Live your life uncut and unfiltered.Slip behind a painting into Bardstown's hidden speakeasy and meet the team behind the Trail Hotel, a boutique stay built for bourbon lovers. We sit with the beverage director Mal Ramos to trace how a dusty Holiday Inn became a destination: the lobby flipped into a vibrant dining hall, a kitchen relocated to power service across every public space, and safety-first courtyards that feel private, quiet, and secure. Just outside the door, Preservation Distillery sits across the street, with Heaven Hill, Maker's Mark, and Jim Beam all within easy reach—giving you a launchpad for the entire Kentucky Bourbon Trail.We pour the hotel's own labels and dig into the details. First up: Trail Hotel Bourbon, a six-year Green River wheated small batch at 103 proof, showing honey, dried fruit, light tobacco, and that satisfying grape-seed grip. Then we explore the house rye, a 95/5 Bardstown Bourbon Company distillate at the same proof, leaning into pear, passion fruit, and a gentle Kentucky hug. From there, the conversation turns to cocktails—why a honey old fashioned with black walnut bitters sings with the bourbon, how a gold rush bridges classic and modern, and what a curated vintage backbar can teach your palate about time and terroir.Festival week amplifies everything. The Kentucky Bourbon Festival's President's Club experience brings private tastings, unreleased barrels, small-batch drops, and brand activations poolside. The Trail Hotel opens its speakeasy for VIPs and invites curious listeners to earn an entry by asking for the beverage director or bourbon steward at dinner. Beyond the glass, we wander Bardstown's deeper story—Jesse James lore, Civil War echoes, Lincoln's birthplace a short drive away—and show how heritage fuels today's hospitality.If you love bourbon, travel, and the art of a well-made cocktail, this is your roadmap to Bardstown's most immersive stay. Hit follow, share with a friend planning a trail trip, and leave a quick review to tell us which pour you'd try first.If You Have Gohsts voice over Whiskey Thief Add for SOFLSupport the showhttps://www.scotchybourbonboys.com The Scotchy bourbon Boys are #3 in Feedspots Top 60 whiskey podcasts in the world https://podcast.feedspot.com/whiskey_podcasts/

Send us a textWe drive from the Ohio Craft Distillery Whiskey Festival to Whiskey Thief, lose a wallet, and find it untouched, reinforcing why the bourbon community feels different. We close with a detailed Evan Williams 12 Year review and scores.• growth of Ohio craft distilling and key brands• why bourbon culture rewards integrity and trust• festival highlights and new connections• the lost wallet story and what it proves• Evan Williams 12 Year background and availability• mash bill, tasting notes, and finish• final rating on the barrel knock scale• upcoming Halloween tasting and community updatesSubscribe, become members, leave super good reviews, give us five-star reviewsA lost wallet, two festivals, and a reminder that trust still matters. We hit the road from the Ohio Craft Distillery Whiskey Festival at Henmick Farms to a late-night hang at Whiskey Thief, weaving through fresh pours, live music, and a moment that could have ruined the weekend. Instead, it turned into proof that the bourbon community runs on integrity: the wallet was found and returned, money and cards untouched. That small act becomes the backbone of this conversation about why whiskey folks feel like family.We walk through standout moments from Ohio's fast-rising craft scene—Middle West Spirits, Watershed, Echo Spirits, Belle of Dayton, and more—sharing quick tasting impressions and the kind of behind-the-table chats that lead to future visits. You'll hear how festivals help us trade knowledge, line up interviews, and discover where regional styles are headed as local distillers refine their grain-to-glass identity.Then we pop Evan Williams 12 Year, the 101-proof distillery favorite with a history as a Japan export. We break down the mash bill, the nose of dried apricot and almond, the cinnamon-to-mint transition on the palate, and a long, clean finish. Using our barrel knock scale, we land on a confident 15/18—a distinctive, steady pour that rewards patience without chasing sweetness. If you love practical tasting talk and real community stories, this one hits both notes.If this resonated, subscribe, share with a friend who loves bourbon, and leave a five-star review. Tell us your best bourbon community story—we might feature it next time.If You Have Gohsts voice over Whiskey Thief Add for SOFLSupport the showhttps://www.scotchybourbonboys.com The Scotchy bourbon Boys are #3 in Feedspots Top 60 whiskey podcasts in the world https://podcast.feedspot.com/whiskey_podcasts/

Send us a textTwo hosts taste and score Weller Full proof while unpacking its Buffalo Trace weeded mashbill, Pappy lineage, and why it remains so hard to find. A side-by-side of 2024 vs 2025 bottles leads to big caramel, butterscotch, and oak debates, plus “Knobs on Ice” to test dilution.• sponsor shout and community roll call across YouTube and Facebook• fall release season context and Ohio bourbon lottery overview• Weller lineup and Pappy selection explained with weeded mashbill• batch versus store pick differences at full proof• 2024 versus 2025 bottle comparison on nose, palate and finish• tasting notes covering caramel, milk chocolate, dark chocolate, banana and brown sugar• tannin discussion on oak, tobacco and leather in the finish• Barrel Bottle Breakdown scoring to 15.75 out of 18• MSRP talk and secondary market reality• proofing down with water and “Knobs on Ice” results• reminder on responsible drinking and brand communityCheck us out for all that swag and information at www.scotchyburbonboys.com; follow on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, X, or TikTok; if you're listening or watching, subscribe or leave good feedback or also become a member; if you're watching on YouTube, make sure you do a super chat; remember good bourbon equals good friends, good family, and good times; make sure you drink responsibly, don't drink and drive, and make sure you live your life uncut and unfilteredCaramel swims into dark chocolate. Butterscotch detonates at 114 proof. That's where our Weller Foolproof tasting takes off—one bottle from 2024, another from 2025—and the room splits over oak tannins, finish length, and whether a splash of water makes the magic or mutes it. We bring the community into the glass, reading live notes from listeners while we map out how Buffalo Trace's weeded mashbill underpins both Weller and the Pappy Van Winkle line.We walk through the Weller family tree—Special Reserve, Antique 107, Weller 12, Full Proof, and limited runs like CYPB—and explain how non-chill filtration and barrel entry proof shape texture and flavor. Expect a nose packed with caramel, brown sugar, wafer, and cocoa; a palate that screams Werther's without turning flabby; and a long, assertive finish that some read as leather or tobacco and others as dark chocolate with a bitter edge. Then we test “Knobs on Ice” for a proofed-down look at how dilution shifts oak, softens heat, and tweaks balance.Beyond tasting notes, we dig into the realities of availability. Why Weller vanishes from shelves, how lotteries and border-town stores change the game, and where MSRP actually lands when you get lucky. We close with the Old Louisville Whiskey Company's Barrel Bottle Breakdown scoring: nose, body, taste, and finish—and Weller Foolproof walks away with 15.75 out of 18. If you're chasing a bottle, this is the roadmap. If you've got one open, pour along and compare your notes with ours.Enjoy the ride? Follow and subscribe, share this episode with a bourbon friend, and drop your Weller rankings and tasting notes in the comments. Your take might be the next palate we read on air.If You Have Gohsts voice over Whiskey Thief Add for SOFLSupport the showhttps://www.scotchybourbonboys.com The Scotchy bourbon Boys are #3 in Feedspots Top 60 whiskey podcasts in the world https://podcast.feedspot.com/whiskey_podcasts/

Send us a textWe map how identical distillate aged 11 years diverges across three Beam Claremont warehouses, then score Warehouse R and taste through W and G to find the standout. Along the way we revisit Harden's Creek history and sample Golden Origins corn whiskey to clarify why used barrels change the label and the flavor.• Harden's Creek origin story and past releases• 2025 concept of same distillate across three warehouses• Warehouse R profile and full tasting with scoring• Warehouse W caramel‑chocolate tilt and softer oak• Warehouse G high‑floor intensity and longest finish• How floor height, heat, and humidity shape whiskey• Golden Origins corn whiskey and used barrel rules• Final ranking and which bottle to hunt• Community Q&A and platform updatesCheck out www.scotchybourbonboys.com for all things Scotchy Bourbon BoysMake sure that you like, listen, subscribe, and leave good feedbackMaker's Mark Private Select barrel pick pre‑sale vouchers available now, contact usWe are on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, X, TikTok, plus Apple, iHeart, and SpotifyThree bottles, one mash bill, and a masterclass in how warehouses write flavor. We put Hardin's Creek's 11-year Claremont trio to the test—Warehouse R (single-story, cool and dark), Warehouse W (five floors by the creek), and Warehouse G (a nine-floor relic)—to see how heat, humidity, and airflow sculpt bourbon at 110 proof.First, we revisit Hardin's Creek's evolving story: from Jacob's Well and Colonel James B. Beam to the 17-year tri-city series and Golden Origins corn whiskey. Then we get hands-on with a structured tasting. Warehouse R shows cherry, vanilla, and honeyed ease with a gentle oak-leather fade—dangerously drinkable and beam-true. Warehouse W shifts caramel-forward with milk-dud chocolate and a softer oak footprint, a natural match for a cigar without overwhelming the palate. Warehouse G brings high-floor energy: deeper oak, layered char, and a finish that recalls Bookers' breadth while staying elegant.We compare notes on legs, body, hug, and finish, score Warehouse R using our Barrel Bottle Breakdown rubric, and stack W and G against it to choose a bottle to hunt. Along the way we break down why floor height accelerates extraction, how creekside humidity tamps down tannins, and why used toasted barrels make Golden Origins a corn whiskey, not a bourbon. If you're curious about warehouse science, microclimates, and how “same distillate” can become three distinct experiences, this tasting flight is your roadmap.Subscribe for more deep-dive tastings, share this with a bourbon friend who loves warehouse talk, and drop your ranking—R, W, or G—in the comments. Your pick might surprise you as much as ours did.If You Have Gohsts voice over Whiskey Thief Add for SOFLSupport the showhttps://www.scotchybourbonboys.com The Scotchy bourbon Boys are #3 in Feedspots Top 60 whiskey podcasts in the world https://podcast.feedspot.com/whiskey_podcasts/

Send us a textWe share how a promise to make a honey bourbon became a labor-heavy infusion method, why Texas heat shapes price and flavor, and how Guadalupe evolved from a winery barrel swap to direct Portuguese port casks. The craft boom, bank-fueled bloat, and the power of fan communities round out a candid look at where bourbon goes next.• honey-infused bourbon built with stave-soaked wildflower honey• infused vs finished explained with TTB labeling choices• texas heat, angel's share, and the reality of higher prices• small batch as the base, selective barrel routing to special releases• guadalupe port casks sourced from portugal after early experiments• single long distillation to retain grain oils and mouthfeel• tasting notes beyond caramel: corn sweetness, pepper spice, milk chocolate, grape at cask strength• industry trends: craft growth, looming glut, and bankruptcies• texas whiskey identity, festivals, and devoted release-day linesMake sure, no matter what, that you like, listen, subscribe, and leave good feedbackIf You Have Gohsts voice over Whiskey Thief Add for SOFLSupport the showhttps://www.scotchybourbonboys.com The Scotchy bourbon Boys are #3 in Feedspots Top 60 whiskey podcasts in the world https://podcast.feedspot.com/whiskey_podcasts/

Send us a textWe taste Booker's Jerry's Batch, honor Jerry Dalton's legacy, and tell the story of how a painting, a vintage serial number, and a shared hunt formed our friendship. The pour leads to a rare perfect score as we break down vanilla glaze, caramel apple notes, and a finish that glows more than it burns.• why Jerry Dalton matters to Beam's lineage • nine-warehouse blend and what 11.1% signals • uncut, unfiltered texture vs ethanol bite • vanilla frosting, caramel, tart apple, soft peanut • rating system and the 19/18 first for our show • availability, pricing chatter, and shop shoutouts • upcoming Garrison Brothers guest and schedule • private select pre-sale details and holiday plans • member perks, where to listen, and community asksMake sure that whatever medium you're following and listening to, leave good feedback for us, leave us a good rating, give us some five stars. Make sure that you subscribe, but also become a member. Our Maker's Mark private select is available for pre-sale—ask to join the pre-sale group.A bottle, a painting, and a friendship walk into a bourbon festival—what came out the other side just made our show's history. We're pouring Booker's Jerry's Batch and raising a glass to Jerry Dalton, the chemist-turned-master distiller whose quiet influence shaped the way Beam thinks about maturation, blending, and consistency. This release leans into nine warehouses and seven production dates to build a profile that somehow hits high-proof power and easy-drinking sweetness at the same time.We talk through the nose—vanilla bean, butterscotch, a flicker of char and that signature peanut—then dive into a palate that surprised us: vanilla glaze, thick caramel, and a tart green-apple spark that keeps everything bright. The body coats without crowding, the ethanol stays in check, and the finish trades harsh burn for a warm, caramel-vanilla glow that lingers. If you've chased batches like Kitchen Table or On the Rocks, this one keeps the Booker's soul while dialing up approachability. If you're new to uncut, unfiltered bourbon, Jerry's Batch is a welcoming first step at 124.7 proof.Along the way, we revisit the origin of our show's bond—an art piece signed by Fred and Freddie Noe and a vintage serial number that kicked off years of tasting together—and we unpack how warehouse microclimates, proof, and texture shape flavor. We also share availability and pricing anecdotes, shout out a stellar local retailer, and preview an upcoming conversation with Garrison Brothers, plus our end-of-year plans and private select pre-sale.Pour a glass and taste with us. If this breakdown hits, follow the show, leave a five-star rating, share it with a friend who loves barrel-proof bourbon, and tell us what you're getting on the finish. Subscribe so you don't miss the Garrison Brothers guest and our bourbon-of-the-year showdown. Cheers.If You Have Gohsts voice over Whiskey Thief Add for SOFLSupport the showhttps://www.scotchybourbonboys.com The Scotchy bourbon Boys are #3 in Feedspots Top 60 whiskey podcasts in the world https://podcast.feedspot.com/whiskey_podcasts/

Send us a textAshley Barnes walks us through the craft behind Lucky Seven's luxe finishes and Curley's everyday versatility while we trade festival stories, hotel speakeasy tips, and single-barrel wins. From refurbished French oak to five-day Amburana cycles, we dig into how consistency, balance, and smart lab design keep each pour true.• Lucky Seven's luxury profile, cigar-lounge vibe, and age statements• Refurbished French oak on The Frenchman for layered depth• Amburana strategy on The New Yorker with rapid, repeated cycles• Finishing to profile and pulling barrels at readiness• Single-barrel identification during blend building• Blending lab design for speed, control, and consistency• Curley's heritage revival, D.J. Curley's bluegrass legacy• Curley as a versatile, citrus-friendly house bourbon at $39.99• Festival community, bottle signings, and bourbon-minded hospitalityLucky Seven Small Batch available here at Kentucky Bourbon FestivalEver wonder how a master blender keeps luxury bourbon silky, expressive, and consistent without sanding off its soul? We sit down with Ashley Barnes to unpack the real work behind Lucky Seven's hallmark finishes and the revival of Curley, a heritage Kentucky name with bluegrass roots and modern bar-cart value. Ashley opens the doors to her process—why refurbished French oak gives The Frenchman more depth than new wood, how five-to-seven-day Amburana cycles capture pastry-shop spice without burying the bourbon, and the way “finish to profile” timing creates batches that feel both reliable and alive.We dig into the nuts and bolts of selection—how single barrels are discovered during blend building, why outliers become treasured releases, and how consistency comes from decisions, not luck. Ashley also shares the physical side of craft: a purpose-built blending lab with custom cabinetry and clean workflow that protects sensory focus, speeds iteration, and keeps notes tight over months of tasting. The result is a portfolio that hits an old-Hollywood, cigar-lounge mood for Lucky Seven while staying unmistakably Kentucky.Then we time-travel with Curley, honoring D.J. Curley's early 1900s ambition and reintroducing a house bourbon designed for real life—neat, rocks, or citrus-forward cocktails—at a price that invites it into weekly rotation. Add Kentucky Bourbon Festival stories, friendly chaos in signing lines, and a hotel speakeasy built for bourbon-minded conversation, and you've got an episode that blends technique, history, and community in equal parts. If you love learning how great whiskey is truly made—and why some bottles keep tasting great—hit play, subscribe, and tell us your favorite finish or cocktail. Your pour might just inspire the next blend.If You Have Gohsts Add for SOFLSupport the showhttps://www.scotchybourbonboys.com The Scotchy bourbon Boys are #3 in Feedspots Top 60 whiskey podcasts in the world https://podcast.feedspot.com/whiskey_podcasts/

Send us a textWe trade perfect bar seats for a once-in-a-lifetime OFC pour, walk the river at Bourbon on the Banks, and put Augusta's 13-year hazmat through a full Barrel Bottle Breakdown. Between dusties, cigars, and cathedral oak, we weigh power against poise and land on what makes a pour memorable.• platform updates, memberships, and feedback asks across YouTube, Apple, Spotify, TikTok• Bourbon on the Banks preview, logistics, and tent setup• House of Commons couch sacrifice for an OFC opening• tasting notes on OFC, dusties, and a 1983 Maker's Mark• Limestone Branch chat with Yellowstone cigars and new eight-year bourbon• the Bardstown cathedral oak bottle backstory and gift• Augusta 13-year hazmat breakdown: nose, body, taste, finish• Augusta Revival vs Augusta 13 head-to-head• health notes, cigar talk, and safe wrap-upMake sure that no matter how you watch us, like, listen, subscribe, and leave good feedback, and sign up for the membershipsA hush fell over the bar as the display case opened—then a $2,500 OFC hit our glasses. That's how our Bourbon on the Banks weekend really started: a risky trade of perfect couch seats for a bucket-list pour, followed by a blur of Whiskey Thief hospitality, House of Commons dusties, and a festival tent that finally felt dialed in. We brought the mics, the Glencairns, and the stories; the river brought the rest.From there, we chased flavor and history. Limestone Branch joined us for cigars and their new eight-year bourbon in a replica 1850s limestone bottle. We unpacked a gift with weight: Bardstown's cathedral oak finish, made from French oak harvested for the Notre Dame rebuild, signed by Steve Nally for a birthday we plan to toast with friends. These aren't just bottles—they're chapters about craftsmanship, aging, sourcing, and the people who make it all possible.Then the breakdown began. We put Augusta Distillery's 13-year single barrel (140.8 proof) under the glass with our Barrel Bottle Breakdown scoring. The nose felt like molasses and brown sugar with a sneaky chocolate-peanut snap; the body coated and lingered; the palate delivered vanilla, caramel, cherry, and leather with the kind of confidence you expect from a 13-year. The twist? A medium finish that chose restraint over the chest-thumping “hug” you'd predict at hazmat. To test our instincts, we staged a head-to-head with Augusta Revival 13 (141 proof): Revival brought the warmth and length; Augusta 13 brought the polish and poise. Depending on your style—hug or harmony—you'll have a favorite.If you care about rare pours, hazmat bourbons, OFC lore, and why House of Commons belongs on your Frankfort map, this one's for you. Pull up a glass, taste along, and tell us where you land on finish: do you want a gentle fade or a long, spicy wave? Subscribe, share with a bourbon friend, and drop a review to help more whiskey lovers find the show.If You Have Gohsts voice over Whiskey Thief Add for SOFLSupport the showhttps://www.scotchybourbonboys.com The Scotchy bourbon Boys are #3 in Feedspots Top 60 whiskey podcasts in the world https://podcast.feedspot.com/whiskey_podcasts/

Send us a textWe recap a fast, generous, and unforgettable Bourbon on the Banks weekend—from Whiskey Thief's bonfire kickoff to rare pours at House of Commons—and finish with a Four Roses OBSK single barrel breakdown that scores 16/18. Along the way we visit Four Roses, Wild Turkey, Buffalo Trace, and more, and share why recipe literacy turns casual sipping into confident selection.• sponsor spotlight for Whiskey Thief tasting rooms in Kentucky and New York• festival logistics, booth setup, and live podcast planning• distillery run: Four Roses, Wild Turkey, Buffalo Trace, Larkin• meeting Brent Elliott and festival friends• House of Commons rare pours including Old-Fashioned Copper• Yellowstone chat with Stephen Beam and Stephen Fontaine• McBrayer tastings and new distillery discoveries• Four Roses history, recipes, and yeast strains explained• Old Louisville Whiskey Co rating framework overview• OBSK nose, body, taste, and finish with 16/18 score• community, gifting, and why stories elevate bottles• upcoming content schedule and platform updatesMake sure that you leave us good feedback and subscribeBecome a member on YouTube, Meta, or Buzzsprout to get perkswww.scotchybourbonboys.com for shirts and GlencairnsDrink responsibly, don't drink and drive, and live your life uncut and unfilteredA bonfire barrel, a rare pour, and a bottle that overdelivers at 100 proof—this one had everything. We kicked off Bourbon on the Banks with Whiskey Thief's farm party, then hustled through a whirlwind run of Four Roses, Wild Turkey, Buffalo Trace, and Larkin before settling into House of Commons, where the shelves read like a history book you can sip. That's where a generous friend handed us a bucket-list dram of Old-Fashioned Copper and reminded us why community makes bourbon culture special.Back at the booth, we recorded with Stephen Beam and Stephen Fontaine, talked Yellowstone's new bottle, and still found time to explore McBrayer's Cedar Brook and other up-and-comers on the festival grounds. The street festival lit up Frankfort—fire jump ropes, music, and a surprise gift: a Cathedral French Oak finish bottle signed by Steve Nally, tied to Notre Dame's restoration. Moments like that turned a packed schedule into a memory reel.We closed with a deep dive on Four Roses: the 10 recipes, the yeast strains, the mash bills, and why OBSK—Four Roses' high-rye K yeast—hits that sweet spot of baking spice, fruit, and structure. Our Old Louisville Whiskey Co–style breakdown put the single barrel at 16/18: a lively nose, massive body for the proof, balanced palate, and a finish that drifts into dark chocolate and vanilla. If you're building a hunting list, “Four Roses OBSK single barrel” belongs on it. If you're here for stories, you'll hear how the right crowd turns a glass into a night you'll talk about all year.Subscribe, leave a review, and share this with a friend who loves a good pour. Want to support more festival coverage and deep-dive tastings? Join as a member on YouTube or Buzzsprout, and tell us your go-to Four Roses recipe—we might feature your take next.If You Have Gohsts voice over Whiskey Thief Add for SOFLSupport the showhttps://www.scotchybourbonboys.com The Scotchy bourbon Boys are #3 in Feedspots Top 60 whiskey podcasts in the world https://podcast.feedspot.com/whiskey_podcasts/

Send us a textA live conversation from Kentucky Bourbon Festival with Augusta Distillery's national brand ambassador Matt Groves, explores how a small river town builds a premium, single‑barrel bourbon brand while keeping community at its core. We taste Buckner's 10 and 13, unpack Old Route 8, announce surprise drops, and share a vintage 1946 pour that connects past to future.• festival energy, industry friendships, and why bourbon is community• Augusta visitor experience with lawn seating, music, and fair-pour access• moving from NDP at bottle to 24/7 production and new rickhouses• single barrel, cask strength, unfiltered, minimum eight years• taxes, yields, and the cost of uncompromised aging• Old Route 8 tasting notes and dependable value• Buckner's 13 and 10 profiles, cinnamon, brown sugar, layered finishes• Riverproof series blending for distillery-only creativity• 8 and 8 highball with Ale-8 as a modern classic• vintage 1946 Dalíng pour and the case for past and future greatness• giving back to Augusta's school and ballfield with real dollars• why Augusta is a destination: barrel thieving, bottling, and fall eventswww.scotchybourbonboys.comFacebook, Instagram, YouTube, X, Apple, iHeart, SpotifyMake sure that you like, listen, and subscribeLeave good feedbackA live sit‑down with Matt Groves from Kentucky Bourbon Festival turns into a masterclass on how a small river town built a premium bourbon brand without losing its heart. We're joined by Augusta Distillery's national brand ambassador to dig into what makes single‑barrel, cask‑strength whiskey feel both world‑class and welcoming: a visitor experience designed for lingering, fair‑pour access to ultra‑premium bottles, and a production engine running 24/7 with new rickhouses coming online. If you've ever wondered how a brand can be NDP at the bottle while laying down barrels daily, or why the words unfiltered and uncompromised still matter, this one hits the spot.We taste through Old Route 8, Buckner's 13, and Buckner's 10—calling out the signatures that keep fans lining up: brown sugar and dark fruit, cinnamon warmth that stays clean, and a “dessert in a glass” profile that turns into an old fashioned over a single cube. Festival highlights abound—light‑yield unicorns selling out in hours, surprise drops of Buckner's 17 and hazmat 13—and a smart, simple cocktail reveal: the 8 and 8 highball with Kentucky's own Ale‑8, a fresh upgrade on the classic 7 and 7 that brings high‑proof whiskey into easy‑drinking territory. Along the way, we share a rare 1946 vintage pour that connects dust, medicine‑sweet cherry, and history to the present, a reminder that some of the best bourbon was made decades ago—and some is quietly aging for drinkers yet to come.Underneath the proofs and pours is purpose. Every bottle points back to Augusta, Kentucky: a flood‑tested river town, a one‑building K‑12 school, and a community that's received real support—funded arts, a renovated ballfield with the Cincinnati Reds, and a sense of pride you can feel on the lawn outside the distillery. Consider this your invite to make the trip: thieve from barrels, bottle your own, sit by the fire pits, and watch the ferry cross the Ohio as the leaves turn. If you love bourbon culture—barrel picks, rare releases, and stories that stick—you'll feel right at home. Subscribe, share with a friend who loves single Add for SOFL If You Have GohstsSupport the showhttps://www.scotchybourbonboys.com The Scotchy bourbon Boys are #3 in Feedspots Top 60 whiskey podcasts in the world https://podcast.feedspot.com/whiskey_podcasts/

Send us a textWe map out the full Bourbon on the Banks weekend—kickoff at Whiskey Thief, Friday auction, and a citywide Saturday—then rate The Beautiful and the Damned's “The Last Lion” with a balanced, peach-forward breakdown. We share how to join the fun even without tickets and where to find us live.• sponsor shout for Whiskey Thief tasting rooms and barrel picks• travel plans, live podcast setup, where and when to meet us• what makes Bourbon on the Banks unique in Frankfurt• Friday charity auction culture and shared bottles• guest drop-ins, pod schedule, and after-hours scene• Old Louisville Whiskey Company experience and move to Shively• The Beautiful and the Damned brand story and sourcing approach• The Last Lion specs, tasting notes, and 16/18 score• platforms to watch and listen, plus merch availabilityMake sure you like, listen, subscribe, leave good feedback, please go leave us good feedback. Give us five stars on Apple. Become a member on YouTube. Follow us on TikTok.A sold-out ticket doesn't stop the party when an entire town turns into a bourbon playground. We're heading back to Frankfurt for Bourbon on the Banks, kicking off at Whiskey Thief with all-day barrel picks and rolling into a Friday charity auction where winners crack bottles and share them on the spot. Then Saturday the streets light up—tasting tents, food trucks, surprise cameos, and a citywide after-hours scene that proves why this festival punches above its weight.Between route-planning and meetups, we set up the mics for live conversations with brands you love and the folks behind them. Think fast-moving floor interviews, real-time tasting notes, and the kind of stories that only spill when the corks do. We also dive into a focused bottle breakdown: The Beautiful and the Damned's “The Last Lion,” a six-and-a-half-year cask strength straight bourbon at 114.2 proof. Expect a plush nose with peach-pastry vibes, a full, viscous body, confectioner's sweetness over caramel, and a medium finish with a touch of tannin. Our score: 16/18—balanced, expressive, and worth chasing if stone fruit is your lane.If you're coming to Frankfurt, here's the play: Thursday at Whiskey Thief, Friday's dinner and auction, Saturday's festival by day and street fair by night. No tickets? Still go—Buffalo Trace and J. Mattingly are nearby, and the after-hours energy is where friendships take root. Look for our Scotchy Bourbon Boys tent, bring a cigar for the outdoor spaces, and say hello for a quick pour and a selfie. Follow on Apple, Spotify, and iHeart, and catch different video cuts on YouTube, Facebook, X, and TikTok. If you had a pour today that surprised you, tell us about it—and if this guide helped, tap follow, drop five stars on Apple, and share the episode with your bourbon crew. Add for SOFL If You Have GohstsSupport the showhttps://www.scotchybourbonboys.com The Scotchy bourbon Boys are #3 in Feedspots Top 60 whiskey podcasts in the world https://podcast.feedspot.com/whiskey_podcasts/

Send us a textBlack Diamond Bourbon combines innovative boxcar aging with a thoughtful blend of Middle West and MGP whiskeys to create a uniquely Appalachian expression that honors Ohio's coal mining heritage.• A bourbon that scores an impressive 15/18 on the Old Louisville Whiskey Company's barrel bottle breakdown scale• Mash bill of 71% corn, 24% rye, and 5% barley bottled at 103 proof• The only bourbon in America aged in railroad boxcars, creating unique temperature fluctuations• A blend of 5.5-year Middle West Spirits and 4.5-year MGP distillate• Flavor profile featuring vanilla, caramel corn, French toast, almond, and chocolate notes• Part of a larger mission to revitalize historic coal mining communities across Southeast Ohio• Available in five taproom locations: Nelsonville, Circleville, Marietta, Shawnee, and Greenfield• Developed in partnership with former MGP master blender Sam SchmetzlerIf you're in Ohio, pick up a bottle of Black Diamond Bourbon from your local OHLQ store. Come visit one of our five taprooms to experience our beers, cocktails, and the full spirit of Appalachian hospitality.Few things capture the essence of a region quite like its spirits, and Black Diamond Bourbon serves as a liquid love letter to Appalachian Ohio's coal mining heritage. This isn't just another craft bourbon—it's the centerpiece of a remarkable revitalization effort breathing new life into historic small towns across Southeast Ohio's former coal country.What sets Black Diamond apart is their revolutionary aging process. In partnership with the Hocking Valley Scenic Railway, they've transformed vintage railroad boxcars into "rolling rickhouses." These unique aging environments create natural temperature and humidity fluctuations that impart distinctive character to the whiskey. As the first and only bourbon in America aged this way, each sip connects you to both innovation and tradition.The liquid itself represents a thoughtful collaboration between regional distilleries. Blending 5.5-year-old Middle West Spirits bourbon with 4.5-year-old MGP distillate creates a 103-proof expression with a mash bill of 71% corn, 24% rye, and 5% barley. This combination delivers a sensory experience worthy of its 15/18 rating on the barrel bottle breakdown scale—notes of caramel corn and vanilla on the nose lead to a palate reminiscent of French toast with almond extract and cinnamon, finishing with touches of tropical fruit and chocolate.Behind Black Diamond stands a development group dedicated to creating gathering spaces in towns once powered by coal. From their distillery in Nelsonville to taprooms in Circleville, Marietta, Shawnee, and Greenfield, each location preserves historic structures while generating economic opportunities for locals. The Black Diamond Tavern in Shawnee exemplifies this mission—housed in an 1877 building once crumbling into its basement, now restored as a community cornerstone featuring locally-sourced cuisine and an impressive whiskey selection.Whether you're a bourbon enthusiast seeking new experiences or someone who appreciates the intersection of craft spirits and community revival, Black Diamond offers something truly special. Find a bottle at your local Ohio liquor store or better yet, plan a visit to experience firsthand how this remarkable spirit is helping transform Appalachian Ohio, one pour at a time. Add for SOFL If You Have GohstsSupport the showhttps://www.scotchybourbonboys.com The Scotchy bourbon Boys are #3 in Feedspots Top 60 whiskey podcasts in the world https://podcast.feedspot.com/whiskey_podcasts/

Send us a textThe Scotchy Bourbon Boys taste the new Star Hill Farm American Wheat Whiskey from Maker's Mark and discuss their connections with the distillery and upcoming barrel picks. This 114.7 proof whiskey made from a blend of seven and eight-year-old wheat whiskeys showcases Maker's Mark's commitment to regenerative farming practices.• Star Hill Farm American Wheat Whiskey is part of Maker's Mark's regenerative agriculture initiative• The 2025 edition contains 51% soft red winter wheat, 27% malted soft red winter wheat, and 22% malted barley• Rob Samuels warned we're only "50 more seasons away from completely stripping out the nutrients from the land"• The whiskey received a perfect 18/18 score in the Old Louisville Whiskey Company barrel bottle breakdown• Tasting notes include caramel apple pie, brown sugar crumble, raspberry, and subtle floral notes• The Scotchy Bourbon Boys are now on TikTok in addition to Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and X• Pre-orders for the Scotchy Bourbon Boys Maker's Mark Private Select "Picked in the Dark" will be available soon for $89.99• The Christmas party is scheduled for December 12th with a visit to Maker's Mark on December 13thContact Jeffrey Mueller directly on Facebook or YouTube to order Scotchy Bourbon Boys merchandise and secure your bottle of their upcoming Maker's Mark Private Select.A revolution is brewing in the Kentucky hills, and it's taking the form of a whiskey that's as good for the earth as it is on your palate. In this captivating episode, we dive deep into Star Hill Farm American Wheat Whiskey, Maker's Mark's groundbreaking foray into regenerative agriculture and sustainable whiskey production.From the moment we uncork this extraordinary spirit, we're transported into a world where whiskey making and environmental stewardship blend perfectly. Rob Samuels' stark warning that "we're only 50 more seasons away from completely stripping out the nutrients from the land" underscores the urgency behind this project, which aims to transform one million acres of farmland through regenerative practices.The tasting experience itself proves nothing short of magical. This 114.7 proof blend of seven and eight-year-old wheat whiskeys delivers waves of caramel apple pie, brown sugar crumble, raspberry, and subtle floral notes that earned it our first-ever perfect 18/18 score. The mouthfeel is luxuriously thick and silky, while the finish lingers with sweet complexity that continues to evolve with every sip.Beyond the bottle, we share exciting updates about our upcoming Maker's Mark Private Select "Picked in the Dark" release, which will be available for pre-order soon at $89.99. We also announce our expansion to TikTok and details about our December 12th Christmas party, followed by a special Ambassador tour at Maker's Mark on December 13th.Whether you're passionate about exceptional whiskey, sustainable practices, or the future of craft spirits, this episode offers a fascinating glimpse into how one distillery is working to heal the land one delicious sip at a time. Join us on this journey where earth meets spirit, and discover why Star Hill Farm Whiskey might just represent the future of American whiskey. Add for SOFL If You Have GohstsSupport the showhttps://www.scotchybourbonboys.com The Scotchy bourbon Boys are #3 in Feedspots Top 60 whiskey podcasts in the world https://podcast.feedspot.com/whiskey_podcasts/

Send us a textThe Scotchy Bourbon Boys conduct a blind tasting of three years of Maker's Mark Cellar Age releases to determine which vintage delivers the most exceptional flavor profile. Our expectations are completely overturned when the 2024 release unanimously wins with its stunning caramel, cherry, vanilla, and apple notes, scoring a perfect 19/18 on our rating scale.• We discuss our recent barrel selection experience at Maker's Mark with Rob Samuels• Rob Samuels explains how Maker's created their innovative limestone cellar for aging bourbon beyond 10 years without bitterness• Each Cellar Age release features different compositions: 2023 (11 & 12-year), 2024 (12 & 13-year), and 2025 (11, 13 & 14-year)• Tasting reveals the 2024 Cellar Age (119.3 proof) as our favorite with exceptional caramel, toffee, cherry, and apple notes• We explore how wheat whiskey changes dramatically when bottles remain open, with flavors evolving and improving over time• The newest 2025 release shows more oak influence, which divides opinions among tasters• We compare our Cellar Age findings with a fresh Kentucky Bourbon Festival private select with a chocolatey stave profileCheck out WWW.ScotchyBourbonBoys.com for Glen Cairns, t-shirts, and all things Scotchy Bourbon Boys. Find us on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and X, along with Apple, iHeart, Spotify, and everywhere else you listen to podcasts.What happens when wheat whiskey ages for over a decade in a revolutionary limestone cellar? We found out in our most revealing blind tasting yet.Tonight, we journey through time with all three releases of Maker's Mark Cellar Age – the limited edition series that challenged everything we thought we knew about aging wheated bourbon. After visiting Maker's Mark and spending time with Rob Samuels, we gained a deeper appreciation for how this historic distillery is pushing boundaries while honoring tradition.The Cellar Age concept is fascinating – taking fully matured Maker's Mark and transferring it to a climate-controlled limestone cellar where it can develop complexity without acquiring bitterness. Each annual release features a unique blend of well-aged whiskeys: 2023 combines 11 and 12-year bourbon, 2024 features 12 and 13-year, while 2025 incorporates three different ages including their first-ever 14-year component.Our blind tasting delivered shocking results that completely upended our expectations. The winner wasn't what any of us predicted, showcasing notes of burnt caramel, toffee, dark cherry, and what we can only describe as an "apple caramel extravaganza." One sample was so impressive it scored a perfect 19/18 on our rating scale – something that's never happened before.We also discovered how dramatically these wheated expressions evolve once opened. As one host explains, "Wheat is a much finer, softer, more impressionable grain," making these bottles living entities that transform over months. The bottle that had been open longest revealed how these expressions hit their peak and then subtly shift toward oakier profiles.Whether you're a devoted Maker's Mark fan or simply curious about how wheat whiskey develops with extended aging, this episode offers rare insights into one of bourbon's most innovative modern experiments. Subscribe now and join us next week when we explore Maker's Mark Star Hill Farm Wheat Whiskey! Add for SOFL If You Have GohstsSupport the showhttps://www.scotchybourbonboys.com The Scotchy bourbon Boys are #3 in Feedspots Top 60 whiskey podcasts in the world https://podcast.feedspot.com/whiskey_podcasts/

Send us a textWe explore Booker's Reserve 2025, a groundbreaking bourbon finished in tequila barrels that creates a unique flavor experience unlike any previous Booker's release.• First-ever finished Booker's bourbon and first tequila finish in the Beam portfolio• Barrels traveled from Kentucky to Mexico and back, creating a global whiskey story• Aged 8 years, 10 months, 11 days at 123.3 proof (61.65% ABV)• Brown wax seal pays homage to early Booker's releases• Freddie Noe's innovative approach honors grandfather Booker's experimental spirit• Tasting reveals complex notes of caramel, vanilla, Mexican spice, and subtle agave influence• Scores an impressive 17.5/18 on our Old Louisville Barrel Bottle Breakdown rating system• Drinks remarkably smooth despite high proof, making it an ideal fireside sipper• The finish features a lasting warmth with evolving flavors that continue to developVisit www.scotchybourbonboys.com for all things Scotchy Bourbon Boys, including Glencairn glasses and t-shirts. Remember, good bourbon equals good friends and good times. Drink responsibly and don't drink and drive. Live your life uncut and unfiltered.Bourbon innovation meets tequila tradition in our exploration of Booker's Reserve 2025 – a groundbreaking release that takes Booker's barrels on an international journey before creating something truly spectacular.This unique expression began with Booker's 30th Anniversary barrels that traveled to Jalisco, Mexico, where the Camarena family used them to age El Tesoro tequila. When those same barrels returned to Kentucky, they carried rich agave notes that would transform a special batch of Booker's bourbon during a 2-3 month finishing period. The result? A first-ever finished Booker's that bridges Kentucky tradition with Mexican craftsmanship.Our tasting reveals a masterful balance of bourbon character and tequila influence. At 123.3 proof, this 8-year, 10-month bourbon delivers waves of caramel, vanilla, and baking spices complemented by subtle agave brightness. What's most remarkable is how approachable it remains despite its strength – the perfect fireside companion for winter evenings. The distinctive brown wax seal (rather than traditional black) visually connects this innovative expression to early Booker's releases.Freddie Noe has established the Reserve series as his playground while honoring his grandfather's experimental spirit. As Freddie notes, Booker "was never not exploring" and would eagerly share his tinkering with friends and family. This philosophy lives on in a bourbon that scored an impressive 17.5/18 on our rating scale, making it a must-have for collectors and enthusiasts alike.Whether you're a longtime Booker's fan or exploring premium bourbon for the first time, this release demonstrates how thoughtful barrel finishing can add fascinating dimensions to an already exceptional whiskey. Get your bottle while supplies last, and experience what happens when Kentucky tradition meets Mexican craftsmanship in a glass. Add for SOFL If You Have GohstsSupport the showhttps://www.scotchybourbonboys.com The Scotchy bourbon Boys are #3 in Feedspots Top 60 whiskey podcasts in the world https://podcast.feedspot.com/whiskey_podcasts/

Send us a textRebekah Neeley from Neeley Family Distillery joins us to share their latest innovations and a tasting of uniquely finished whiskeys from their Sparta, Kentucky distillery. From their upcoming three-chamber still to award-winning experimental finishes, Rebecca demonstrates why small, family-owned distilleries are at the forefront of bourbon innovation.• Neely is installing a three-chamber still, becoming only the fourth operational one in the world• Cypress fermenters impart the distinct "Neely funk" that distinguishes their flavor profile• Their absinthe has won three consecutive double golds and a platinum medal• Rebekah guides us through tastings of sake-finished bourbon, sauternes finish, tequila finish, and acacia wood finish• The distillery offers quarter and half barrel picks to make barrel selection more accessible• Rebekah's first official blend showcases her blending skills and understanding of everyday bourbon drinkers• Visitors can fill their own bottles and personalize labels at the distillery• Located at Exit 55 off Interstate 71 between Louisville and CincinnatiRemember to stop by Neeley Family Distillery when traveling - they have rocking chairs, a cigar area, and some of the cleanest bathrooms around. Live your life uncut and unfiltered.Venture into the heart of Kentucky bourbon country as we sit down with Rebekah Neeley at the speakeasy of Neeley Family Distillery. This episode uncorks the fascinating evolution of a craft distillery that's balancing tradition with bold innovation.Rebekah shares exciting news about their upcoming three-chamber still installation—set to make them only the fourth distillery in the world with this equipment. The "Icon," as it's officially named, will produce heavier, more viscous distillate that opens new possibilities for their whiskey portfolio. We explore why Neely maintains cypress fermenters when many have switched to stainless steel, and how these wooden vessels create what Rebekah calls "the Neeley funk"—that distinctive character that makes their spirits uniquely theirs.The heart of our visit features an extraordinary tasting journey through Neely's experimental finished whiskeys. Rebekah guides us through their sake barrel-finished four-grain bourbon with delicate melon notes, an award-winning sauternes finish, a complex tequila-finished expression with chocolate and berry characteristics, and perhaps most surprisingly, an acacia wood-finished bourbon with barbecue-like qualities. We also sample Rebecca's first official blend—a carefully crafted seven-barrel marriage designed as an approachable daily sipper.What makes Neeley special extends beyond the liquid. Their quarter and half-barrel options make single barrel selections accessible to smaller groups, while their fill-your-own-bottle program creates meaningful personalized experiences for visitors. Rebekah shares touching stories of how this simple offering has created powerful moments—from future 21st birthday gifts to heartfelt thank-you presents for hospital staff.Whether you're planning your Kentucky bourbon trail adventure or simply seeking inspiration from craft distilling innovation, join us for this deep dive into what makes small, family-owned distilleries the creative heartbeat of American whiskey. Subscribe now and discover your next bourbon adventure! Add for SOFL If You Have GohstsSupport the showhttps://www.scotchybourbonboys.com The Scotchy bourbon Boys are #3 in Feedspots Top 60 whiskey podcasts in the world https://podcast.feedspot.com/whiskey_podcasts/

Send us a textTiny recounts the Scotchy Bourbon Boys' action-packed week at the Kentucky Bourbon Festival, highlighting distillery tours, bottle releases, and unforgettable experiences. The team captured professional-quality content throughout the festival while collecting exceptional bourbon.• Pre-festival activities included podcasting at Neely Family Distillery and hosting a fan meetup at Revival Vintage Spirits• Acquired a 1946 Dowling Deluxe Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey (distilled in 1938) from Revival• Visited numerous distilleries including Town Branch, Jim Beam, Maker's Mark, and Old Carter• Organized a bus tour featuring stops at Evan Williams, the Pendennis Club, and Old Louisville Whiskey Company• Participated in a Maker's Mark Private Selection despite a power outage from a lightning strike• CT heroically rescued a young woman from an overturned car during their travels• Jim Beam "saved the festival" by ensuring enough special releases for general admission attendees• Acquired bottles including Knob Creek 21, Booker's Reserve, Hardin's Creek expressions, and festival-exclusive picksJoin us next Tuesday when we'll announce our Christmas party, the Crystal Glencairn tasting, new membership packages, and the pre-sale of our Maker's Mark Private Select.What happens when you combine Kentucky's biggest bourbon celebration with the Scotchy Bourbon Boys' passion for capturing authentic whiskey experiences? An unforgettable week filled with rare tastings, exclusive access, and unexpected adventures.Our journey began days before the official Kentucky Bourbon Festival, with an ambitious itinerary that included podcasting with Rebecca Neely in their speakeasy, hosting fans at Revival Vintage Spirits, and acquiring a truly historic bourbon – a 1946 Dowling Deluxe distilled in 1938. Each day brought new discoveries as we visited Town Branch, Jim Beam, Whiskey Thief, and numerous other distilleries, capturing professional-quality content while immersing ourselves in Kentucky's bourbon culture.The centerpiece of our pre-festival activities was our curated bus tour, taking whiskey enthusiasts to legendary Louisville destinations including the Evan Williams Experience, the historic Pendennis Club (birthplace of the Old Fashioned), Old Carter, and Old Louisville Whiskey Company. Walter Zausch's extraordinary hospitality at the Pendennis Club – featuring custom Old Fashioneds and a 25-year Derby bottle – exemplified the personal connections that make bourbon culture so special.Among the most memorable experiences was participating in a Maker's Mark Private Selection despite the distillery suffering a power outage from a lightning strike. Selecting staves by natural light in the lakehouse created an atmosphere connecting us to bourbon's pre-industrial roots, resulting in a selection that perfectly accentuates the whiskey's creme brulee and caramel notes.The festival itself revealed the growing intensity of bottle hunting, with some enthusiasts waiting hours without success. However, Jim Beam's generous allocation of special releases – including Knob Creek 21, Booker's Reserve 2025, and three Hardin's Creek expressions – ensured even general admission attendees could secure remarkable bottles.Beyond the planned events, we experienced an unexpected moment of heroism when CT rescued a young woman from an overturned vehicle – a powerful remi Add for SOFL If You Have GohstsSupport the showhttps://www.scotchybourbonboys.com The Scotchy bourbon Boys are #3 in Feedspots Top 60 whiskey podcasts in the world https://podcast.feedspot.com/whiskey_podcasts/