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Episode 351 June 21, 2023 · 01:21:44
351. A Fathers Day Special

351. A Fathers Day Special

Jim Shannon, Rob Carter & Steve Ladden sip Jack Daniel's Bonded and Old Forester 100 while unpacking what makes a Kentucky gentleman and a great father.

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Show Notes

Happy Father's Day from the Bourbon Road! Host Jim Shannon settles into Carter's Rare Eagle Bar — the patriotic, eagle-filled basement bourbon den belonging to returning guest Rob Carter — for a heartfelt Father's Day conversation joined by Steve Ladden of Shelby Bourbon Tours. The trio raises a glass to the timeless qualities that make a Kentucky gentleman and a great father: hospitality, honoring tradition, a strong work ethic, sportsmanship, humility, a love of the outdoors, fine craftsmanship, integrity, community, and the power of storytelling. Along the way, Rob shares the story behind his one-of-a-kind bus-front bar, Steve reflects on adopting his son from Ukraine, and all three men offer honest, unscripted reflections on fatherhood — the wins, the shortcomings, and the grace required to keep going.

On the Tasting Mat:

  • Jack Daniel's Bonded Tennessee Whiskey: A 100-proof bottled-in-bond Tennessee whiskey made on the same mash bill as standard Jack Daniel's but selected from bolder, more expressive barrels. The Lincoln County charcoal-mellowing process is intact, yielding a smooth entry followed by rich caramel, a deeper spice character, and a slightly burnt, warming finish. Widely available around $27–$30. (00:11:46)
  • Old Forester 100 Proof Bourbon: A 100-proof Kentucky straight bourbon from Brown-Forman, the distillery founded by George Garvin Brown in 1870. At least four years old, this expression surprises with its sweetness and accessibility at proof — cherry fruit dominates the nose and palate, with a smooth, approachable body and enough depth to reward sipping neat. A perennial value pick in the $25–$30 range. (00:46:00)

The Rare Eagle Bar proved to be the perfect setting for a Father's Day episode equal parts reflection and relaxation. Jim, Rob, and Steve remind us that the marks of a true gentleman — showing up, working hard, treating others well, and being present — are as timeless as the whiskey in the glass. Whether you are a new dad or a grandfather, this one is worth a listen and a pour.

Full Transcript

Jack Daniels Bonded Old Forester 100 Tennessee whiskey Kentucky bourbon bottled in bond Brown-Forman Rob Carter Steve Ladden Jim Shannon Shelby Bourbon Tours fathers day bourbon bourbon podcast Carter's Rare Eagle Bar Kentucky gentleman Southern hospitality bourbon tasting fatherhood Shelbyville Kentucky bourbon under 30 work ethic

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