Tasting Notes
Every tasting you see here comes from Jim and Todd pouring the bottle on the show, taking notes in real time, and scoring it against hundreds of other whiskeys we've tasted over the years. Nothing is theoretical. Every score is earned at the microphone.
Our Methods & Rating Click to expand
How We Taste
We pour every whiskey on the show, in a standardized Glencairn glass, at room temperature, and without added water unless we specifically note it. We taste neat first. We taste together, out loud, and let the conversation shape the review.
Every tasting is broken down into three distinct passes — nose, palate, and finish — and we don't cheat those sections. What you read in each bottle's tasting card is drawn directly from what we said on air, cleaned up for readability but never embellished. If we compared a pour to a specific candy bar, a memory, or a childhood road trip, that's what goes in the notes. The goal is honesty, not poetry.
Where the Notes Come From
Each tasting card on this site is built from three sources:
- The episode itself. We transcribe every show with speaker identification, so we can trace exactly what was said about each pour, in order.
- The show notes. The descriptions we write for every episode — bottle names, proofs, ages, mash bills, and the story of where the whiskey came from.
- Our reference library. We keep records of every bottle we've tasted, which lets us calibrate new ratings against earlier reviews and head-to-head flights.
When a tasting card has a nose/palate/finish breakdown, those words are ours — taken from the actual conversation on the episode where we first tasted the bottle.
How We Rate
Every whiskey earns a rating based on how it performed at the microphone — not in theory, not by reputation. The scale runs from Undrinkable to Perfection, with every step between reflecting a real distinction we've experienced across hundreds of pours.
A Word on Context
Ratings aren't issued in a vacuum. A cask-strength hazmat rye and a sub-$30 everyday pour are playing very different games, and we try to respect that. When we do head-to-head flights on the show — and we do them often — we tell you which bottle beat which, and why.
Our goal isn't to be the final word on any bottle. It's to be honest, specific, and consistent across hundreds of episodes — so you can calibrate your own palate against ours and figure out what you'd love.
Short Barrel Four-Grain Kentucky Straight Bourbon
A crushable, sessionable everyday whiskey that disappears in short order with soft wheat-forward character and fair value at the price point.
Old Stillhouse Blueprint Series Batch 002
A well-crafted five-year wheated bourbon with solid complexity and more fruit-forward character than typical wheated bourbons, delivering honey-bread and toasted grain complexity.
High West Cask Strength Blend of Straight Bourbon Whiskies
An impressive grain-forward blend from Utah that delivers concentrated, nutty, and spiced character with surprising complexity and exceptional value at cask strength proof.
Leopold Brothers 9-Year Cask Strength Three Chamber Rye
An extraordinary grain-focused rye distilled through a three-chamber pot still that extracts and amplifies heritage rye essence into an exceptional and singular whiskey experience.
True Story Bourbon
A well-constructed, approachable bourbon finished in Muscatel that strikes an excellent balance between complexity and accessibility.
True Story Rye Whiskey Volume 1
A complex, multi-layered rye that defies expectations with its balance of bold Ambarana cinnamon notes against underlying rye character.
Brothers of the Leaf Straight Kentucky Bourbon
A robust bourbon finished in toasted French oak that delivers impressive smoothness and balance despite its 112-proof punch.
Brothers of the Leaf Straight Rye Whiskey
A sophisticated rye that shatters preconceptions about spicy, hot rye whiskeys with its refreshing mint and marshmallow profile.
Brothers of the Leaf The Blend
A creative bourbon-rye blend that defies easy categorization, offering surprising complexity and remarkable versatility across formats.
James E. Pepper Bottled-in-Bond Straight Bourbon Whiskey
A solid bottled-in-bond expression with excellent balance between rich mid-palate sweetness and crisp herbal rye-driven finish.
1832 Distilling Missouri Straight Wheat Whiskey Single Barrel
An impressive single barrel from a small craft operation with surprising depth of flavor and excellent value proposition despite prominent oak character.
Southern Star Spirits Paragon Straight Bourbon Whiskey Finished in Zinfandel Cask
A thought-provoking experimental finish that prioritizes wine barrel character over traditional bourbon identity, best appreciated as a contemplative after-dinner sipper.
Bell of Dayton Dietrich Fine Whiskies Full Proof Single Barrel Straight Bourbon Whiskey
A remarkably approachable high-proof single barrel that showcases sophisticated pot-still craftsmanship with exceptional balance between spice, oak, and nuanced grain character.
Old Crow Bonded 1992 Japanese Export
A remarkably rich and well-developed four-year-old bonded bourbon with exceptional depth, caramel, and cherry character that far exceeds expectations for its age.
Angel's Envy Cask Strength Bottled in Bond Kentucky Straight Bourbon
A refined cask-strength bonded bourbon with soft, fruity notes and delicate sweetness that balances caramel and orchard fruit flavors.
Old Dominick Bottled in Bond Tennessee Whiskey
A solid Tennessee bonded whiskey with earthy and wooded character, cherry and tobacco notes, and developing spice that creates a complex, enjoyable pour.
James E. Pepper Bottled in Bond Rye
A well-crafted 100% rye bonded whiskey with vibrant mint and citrus on the nose, balanced spice and sweetness, and a clean, minty finish.
Atelier Vie Bottled in Bond Gin
A unique barrel-aged bonded gin with complex botanical and herbal notes where oak and wood integrate with juniper to create unexpected fruity and citrus character.
Bardstown Bourbon Company Origin Series Bottle in Bond
A definitive bottle and bond whiskey that represents the category perfectly—traditional, well-balanced, and approachable at a great price point.
Bardstown Bourbon Company Origin Series High Wheat Bourbon
An exceptional wheat bourbon that proves high-wheat mashbills can deliver complexity and sophistication while remaining approachable for a wide range of drinkers.
Green River Distillery Full Proof Weated Bourbon
A full-proof weated bourbon that successfully elevates the Green River brand's award-winning weated recipe to a more sophisticated and commanding expression.
Bardstown Bourbon Company Discovery Series #13
An impressive limited-release blend that showcases Bardstown's blending prowess and demonstrates why the Discovery Series has become a standout program for craft innovation.
Montgomery Distillery Montana Straight Bourbon
A bright, mineral-forward Montana bourbon with surprising complexity and clean structure for its relatively modest proof.
Broad Branch Distillery North Carolina Straight Rye
A hazmat-strength rye with impressive dark chocolate and mint character that commands attention despite its heat.
Dread River Distilling Company Alabama Straight Bourbon
A well-crafted, deeply flavored Alabama bourbon that channels dark fruits and molasses into a remarkably balanced high-proof sipper.
Dastaphile Idaho Straight Bourbon
A record-strength Idaho bourbon with impressive caramel depth and grain character that belies its ten-year maturation and exceptional proof.
Lost Lantern Far-Flung Bourbon Four (Cask Strength)
An expertly blended seven-distillery bourbon that achieves impressive balance and complexity while revealing new flavor layers with each sip.
King of Kentucky Small Batch – Batch 1 (105 proof)
A complex, age-driven pour with impressive depth and viscosity, but the firm tannins and aggressive dryness may overwhelm some palates.
King of Kentucky Small Batch – Batch 2 (107.5 proof)
A well-integrated expression with darker, figgy stone-fruit notes and balanced spice that refines the profile relative to Batch 1.
King of Kentucky Small Batch – Batch 3 (110 proof)
A remarkably layered and front-to-back expressive pour that balances brightness, chocolate depth, and a unique cherry-cola character with restrained tannin intrusion.
King of Kentucky Small Batch – The Blend (equal parts Batches 1, 2 & 3)
A well-integrated marriage that captures the brightness of Batch 3 and the depth of Batch 2 while moderating the tannin intensity, creating a more balanced and versatile sipper.
Old Overholt 10 Year Cask Strength Rye
A powerful, concentrated rye with dark cherry depth and a lengthy, warming finish that delivers serious impact for the proof.
Old Overholt 11 Year Cask Strength Rye
A candy-sweet, balanced rye with lush mouthfeel that edges into dessert territory, though the finish doesn't linger as powerfully as the 10-year.
Old Overholt 12 Year Cask Strength Rye
A sophisticated rye that balances berry-fruit sweetness with spicy leather notes, offering plush texture and a complex, lengthy finish.
Old Overholt 10/11/12 Year Blend (Combo Pour)
An interesting blend that showcases the interplay of the three expressions, with the higher-proof components dominating but delivering solid complexity throughout.
2025 Remus Gatsby Reserve 15 Year
A 15-year-old bourbon that drinks with considerably more weight than its proof suggests, delivering rich oak and cinnamon complexity that unfolds beautifully as it sits in the glass.
Old Forester 117 Series High Angel's Share Rye
A bright, fruit-forward rye with a surprising strawberry-jam character and spicy gumdrop profile that delivers a clean, quick finish with lingering peppercorn spice.
Bardstown Bourbon Company Cascadia Garryana Oak
A distinctive and aromatic expression showcasing the rare Garryana oak's sandalwood and clove character, delivering concentrated oak flavors and a savory, cigar-box finish unlike any standard barrel finish.
Redemption 10 Year Barrel Proof High Rye Bourbon
A high-rye barrel-proof bourbon with intense toffee and glazed-pecan sweetness that drinks warmer than its 114.4 proof would suggest, punctuated by a distinctive minty spice from the substantial rye content.
E.H. Taylor Barrel Proof Batch 14B
A classic Buffalo Trace profile at barrel proof, balancing sweet caramel and red berries against a sophisticated baking-spice cabinet, with a surprisingly light body and long white-pepper finish.
Peter E. Hart Spirits Smoked Rye Whiskey 100 Proof
An approachable rye that bridges the gap between rye enthusiasts and bourbon drinkers, with clever smoke finishing that softens the traditional spice without overwhelming the spirit.
Peter E. Hart Spirits Single Barrel Weated Bourbon 112 Proof
A complex, exceptionally crafted single barrel bourbon with honeyed wheat and malt in the mash bill that delivers sophisticated caramel and pecan notes with remarkable maturity for its age.
Peter E. Hart Spirits Double Oak Kentucky Straight Bourbon 8 Year 105 Proof
A thoughtfully executed double-oak bourbon that elevates a solid Jim Beam source barrel by adding complexity and vanilla character without the cloying sweetness often associated with the technique.
Hardin's Creek The Mushroom
A ground-floor warehouse expression with compelling earthy and peppery character, excellent texture, and a long, warming finish.
Hardin's Creek The Beaver
A vibrant, fruit-forward expression with caramel apple and baking spice charm, ideal for those seeking brightness and approachability.
Hardin's Creek The Owl
A bold, high-warehouse expression with rich vanilla and charred oak character, delivering memorable depth and a classic Beam profile with impressive punch.
James B. Beam Distiller's Share No. 8 — American Single Malt, Sweet Peat Finish
An approachable, distinctly sweet American single malt with a gentle peated finish that balances pastry-like sweetness and subtle smoke.
Manifest Distillery 100% Florida Rye Whiskey
A mild, approachable Florida-grown rye that showcases local grain without aggressive spice or heat.
Cedar Ridge Quintessential Signature Blend American Single Malt Whiskey
A well-executed American single malt from Iowa with notable quality that reflects the distiller's experience at Stranahan's.
Copper Sky Weated Bourbon 5 Year Batch 7
A Colorado wheated bourbon from a now-closed distillery that represents quality craft work during its operational period.
New Holland While I Run Malted Rye Whiskey (Dusty Dan Trout & Jeff Wack Barrel Pick)
A Michigan-crafted malted rye with distinctive fruit-forward character that showcases the distillery's quality work.
Murlarky Smokehouse American Single Malt Whiskey
A unique Virginia single malt with innovative bacon-smoke finishing that creates an unusual but compelling savory-sweet profile.
Frey Ranch Estate Grown Rye Whiskey
A Nevada estate-grown rye whiskey representing quality craft distillation from a respected farm operation.
Macklow Collection Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
A soft, sweet pour that showcases the high-corn Wilderness Trail profile with pleasant honey and cinnamon notes, though lacking complexity.
Jack Daniel's Single Barrel Heritage Barrel Tennessee Whiskey (Toasted)
A well-balanced single barrel with classic Jack Daniel's comfort on the nose and rewarding vanilla-forward palate, showcasing how lower entry proof and extended toasting create subtle complexity.
Penelope 10 Year Straight Bourbon Private Select – Estate Collection
A sophisticated pour that reveals surprising depth and floral character on a quiet nose, then delivers a complex palate evolution with honey, rye spice, and oak that culminates in an exceptional lingering finish.
Maker's Mark 46
An exemplary French oak-finished bourbon with a captivating vanilla-forward nose and well-integrated spice that allows the wheated mash bill to express itself.
Blue Note Crossroads Toasted French Oak Bourbon
A creamy, fruit-forward toasted French oak finish that delivers surprising richness and complexity with its high-rye mash bill shining through the oak integration.
RD1 Spirits French Oak Finished Bourbon
A sophisticated French oak finish that evolves beautifully with fruit and chocolate notes, demonstrating excellent balance between the innovative chain-finishing method and the underlying bourbon character.
Pursuit United Sherry French Revere Oak Rye
A commanding rye that showcases how the spirit can stand up to bold finishing without capitulation, with Sherry and French oak playing supporting roles to the assertive rye character.
Little Book Chapter 9 "None for Granted"
A well-crafted blend with compelling new-oak character and bright fruit notes, though the barrel-proof bite and oak-forward profile place it behind more balanced expressions.
Little Book Infinite 2nd Edition
A masterwork of blending that delivers remarkable complexity and breadth, with the aged distillate components elevating this to an exceptional category standard-bearer.
Booker's Reserves 2025 (El Tesoro Tequila Barrel Finish)
A distinctive tequila-finished bourbon that prioritizes balance and subtle integration rather than overt expression, making it an intriguing sipper best paired with something sweet.
Knob Creek 21-Year-Old
A masterclass in extra-aged whiskey expression that achieves remarkable depth and refinement without over-oaking, delivering near-perfection in balance and complexity.
Southern Star Bonded Straight Rye Whiskey
An approachable, well-textured rye with floral heritage characteristics and excellent grain-forward expression that appeals to both whiskey enthusiasts and newcomers alike.
Southern Star Cask Strength Straight Bourbon Whiskey Finished in Honey Cask
A beautifully balanced honey-finished bourbon where the bourbon remains the star and the honey plays a supporting yet distinctive role, creating a dessert-like sipper with excellent texture.
Southern Star American Single Malt (Second Release)
A distinctive American single malt that celebrates American distillation technique while featuring grain-on continuous distillation, creating a unique flavor profile that stands independent from both bourbon and Scotch traditions.
Castle & Key Experimental Series Vol. 1 – Spaniard Mill Rye Finished in Vino de Naranja Barrels
A playful, well-balanced experimental rye with bright citrus sweetness and complementary spice that shows Castle & Key hitting their stride with creative finishes.
Old Overholt 12 Year Rye
An exceptional aged rye that eschews candy sweetness for elegant desiccated fruit and leather, delivering a remarkably long, satisfying finish at a compelling price point.
Elijah Craig Barrel Proof Bourbon B525
A standout barrel proof that excels with warm butter, stewed fruit, and spice complexity, delivering palate satisfaction that exceeds an already pleasant nose.
Old Forester 117 Series – Prohibition Era Still Proof
A distinctive Old Forester with s'mores-like flavors and good proof integration, though the finish tails off faster than the robust proof might suggest.
Two Stacks The First Cut Signature Blend
A light, approachable Irish whiskey with pleasant fruit and oak balance that serves as a good introduction to the category at a reasonable price point.
Two Stacks Double Barrel Single Grain
A notably complex Irish whiskey with excellent layered flavors, sherry influence, and an impressively long finish that punches well above its modest proof.
Glen Scotia 15 Year
A well-balanced lightly peated Scotch with clean fruit and smoke that provides an excellent entry point for those exploring peat without overwhelming intensity.
Loch Lomond 18 Year
An elegant Highland malt with sophisticated layered flavors of orchard fruit and pastry, offering complexity and balance without aggressive peat despite its age.
Bruichladdich The Laddie Rye 7 Year
A genuinely creative and surprisingly approachable Scotch rye hybrid with soft herbal complexity, dark fudge depth, and a bright citrus finish that shows the potential of experimental grain bills.
Bardstown Bourbon Company Distillery Reserve Normandy Calvados Brandy Barrel Finish
A fruit-driven masterwork of concentrated flavor and complexity from 28 months in French Calvados casks followed by four months in medium-toasted new oak.
Sespe Creek Distillery Warbringer Mesquite Smoked Southwest Bourbon Batch 22
A polarizing, unapologetically smoky whiskey that fully delivers on its stated intent to ruffle feathers with aggressive mesquite smoke balanced by Sherry sweetness.
Jackson Purchase Distillery Foolproof Batch No. 1
A textbook excellent bourbon from established craftspeople that tastes significantly older than its four-year age statement, with rich body and impressive balance.
New Riff High Note Confluence Project Vol. 1 Wheat Whiskey
An exceptionally refined barrel-proof wheat whiskey with unexpected dark grain complexity, medicinal spice, and candy-like sweetness that rivals the best aged wheat spirits.
Knob Creek 21-Year
An exceptionally balanced 21-year-old bourbon with one of the finest noses of the year, delivering complex candy and fruit notes alongside measured oak influence.
Jack Daniel's 12-Year Old Tennessee Whiskey (Batch 3)
A remarkably intense delivery for its proof point, with darker fruit and chocolate character that stands out among Tennessee whiskeys.
Wild Turkey Master's Keep Beacon
A beacon of craft excellence that touches every palate receptor with expansive, layered complexity and the signature Wild Turkey funk done at its finest.
Russell's Reserve 13-Year Barrel Proof (2025 Release)
A rich, full-bodied barrel proof that delivers dense crystalline sweetness and signature Wild Turkey funk with excellent balance and texture.
Woodford Reserve Chocolate Malted Rye Whisper Redux
A singular, memorable expression where roasted chocolate-malted rye creates an authentic fudge-and-chocolate character that feels earned rather than added.
Oak Lore Four-Grain Bourbon Whiskey
A solid, evolving four-grain blend with savory spice and surprising candy-like complexity for its price point.
Oak Lore North Carolina Straight Rye Whiskey
A chameleon rye that continuously reveals new layers—dark berries, spice, and roasted notes—making it a rewarding sipper for those who enjoy complexity.
Oak Lore Port Cask Finish Rye Whiskey
A well-executed port finish that balances rye spice and deep fruit without overwhelming the spirit's backbone.
Sagamore Spirit Albariño Cask Finish Rye Whiskey
A singular and memorable pour that marries unexpected floral elegance with robust spice and honey—a wine barrel finish that defies expectation and rewards contemplation.
Holiday Distilling Ancient Cave Collection Hickory Smoked Bourbon
A delicately smoked bourbon with genuine apple-forward character that feels nostalgic and well-integrated, avoiding the pitfall of aggressive smoke.
Widow Jane The Vaults 2025 – Mythological Edition
A unique 15-year-old finished in lightning-struck Greek oak that delivers complex, mysterious flavors with surprising depth for its proof—a distinctive pour worthy of its premium price.
Barrel Craft Spirits 12 Year French Oak Finish
A beautifully balanced 12-year expression with a deceptive nose that gives way to a creamy, vanilla-forward palate—the French oak finish adds sophistication and restraint.
Bardstown Bourbon Company x Maison Ferrand Finished No. 2
An expertly blended cognac-finished expression that delivers intense, multi-layered sweetness and dark fruit character—the rye component provides crucial balance to what would otherwise be purely dessert-like.
Wild Turkey Master's Keep Beacon
The final Master's Keep release is an elevated expression of Wild Turkey's signature character—viscous, multi-dimensional, and remarkably balanced, delivering cherry-tobacco complexity and oak refinement that sets it apart.
Woodford Reserve Barrel Strength Rye
A textbook pot-still Kentucky rye that noses soft but delivers prominent cereal and grain character on the palate—a well-crafted, traditional expression that defines the category.
Pursuit United Tobacco Stave Single Barrel Bourbon 108 Proof — Bourbon on the Banks 2025 Pick
A smooth, candy-forward bourbon with sweet tobacco and chocolate notes that appealed to the crowd's preference for sweeter expressions.
Dark Arts Whiskey 7.5-Year Straight Bourbon Finished in Tokaj Wine Casks (56.62% ABV) — Bourbon on the Banks 2024 Barrel Pick
A lush, dessert-forward bourbon with fig and caramel notes elevated by its Tokaj wine cask finish, delivering a memorable and complex pour.
Remus Master Distillers Experimental Series No. 1
A unique and well-balanced experimental bourbon with French cooperage influence that delivers rich, soft character and interesting spice complexity.
Oak Lure Story Series No. 2 Oloroso Sherry Cask Finish Four Grain Bourbon
A well-crafted lower-proof bourbon with excellent sherry cask influence that provides soft, fruit-forward character and interesting nuttiness.
Barrel Foundation Single Barrel @ 00:01:29
A fruit-forward single barrel with stone fruit character and a pleasant spicy backbone that delivers complexity at moderate proof.
Barrel Foundation Double Barrel @ 00:21:41
A well-balanced second-barrel bourbon with inviting chocolate and apple notes elevated by subtle spice and a toasted oak influence.
Barrel Batch 37 @ 00:37:21
A flagship blend that delivers impressive complexity across multiple age ranges and sources, creating a well-orchestrated symphony of flavor.
Barrel Cask Finish Series — Armagnac Finish @ 00:50:45
A rich and complex Armagnac-finished bourbon with distinctive fig notes and silky palate that pairs beautifully with cigars or stands alone as an exceptional sipper.
Lost Lantern American Vatted Malt Reissue
A delicate, approachable vatted malt where nose and palate align beautifully, delivering honey-sweet fruit and cereal comfort.
Lost Lantern American Vatted Malt Remix
A darker, more complex blend of eleven single malts that trades delicacy for structure, with spice and leather taking the lead.
Warfield American Single Malt (Lost Lantern Single Barrel)
A surprising and memorable single barrel where minerality on the nose gives way to an unexpectedly lush, creamy palate of lemon dessert.
Triple Eight 10 Year Single Malt (Lost Lantern Single Barrel)
A genuinely singular 10-year expression where Nantucket's maritime influence delivers distinct salinity alongside orchard fruit and butterscotch.
Triple Eight 11 Year Sauternes Cask Single Malt (Lost Lantern Single Barrel)
The oldest whiskey Lost Lantern has released—a concentrated, port-like expression where French oak Sauternes aging creates deep nuttiness and vinous richness.
Triple Eight 10 Year Peated Single Malt (Lost Lantern Single Barrel)
A tactfully balanced peated expression where the iodine-medicinal character on the nose proves restrained on the palate, finishing clean and maritime.
McCarthy's 10 Year Peated Single Malt (Lost Lantern Single Barrel)
A darker, more savory peated expression where Oregon Gariana oak adds distinct campfire smoke and leather depth, pairing fruit with smoky intensity.
Brothers Bond Regenerative Grain Straight Bourbon
A well-balanced four-grain bourbon with good mouthfeel and approachable sweetness, though it gets slightly outshone by more complex expressions.
Buzzard's Roost Cigar Blend Bourbon
A richly complex cigar blend with an intriguing new-leather character and diverse flavor profile that rewards exploration.
Bardstown Bourbon Company Discovery Series #13
A masterfully blended Kentucky bourbon showcasing superb balance and a complex, lingering finish that demonstrates the skill of expert blending.
Cedar Ridge Barrel Proof Bourbon
A well-priced, approachable barrel-proof bourbon with an intriguing malted grain influence that delivers solid character and value.
Silver Spring Sweet Rye (J.W. Kelly)
A strikingly unorthodox rye that defies category expectations with its fruity, candy-like character while still delivering classic rye spice on the finish.
Burnt Tavern Bourbon
A well-crafted bourbon with a distinctive whisper of smoke that elevates it above standard expressions, offering an interesting sweet-smoke balance that pairs well with barbecue flavors.
Gypsy Spirits Legacy Batch 003 The Declaration
A sophisticated multi-component blend that rewards slow, thoughtful sipping with evolving spice, chocolate, and caramel notes that deepen with each revisit.
Bourbon Pursuit United Kodama Mizunara Finish
An exceptionally well-integrated Mizunara finish that delivers a garden-fresh nose and bright, savory palate, standing as one of the finest examples of this particular finishing technique.
Bourbon Pursuit Old Anvil 11-Year 375mL
An 11-year single-barrel expression that leverages a one-time Heaven Hill mash bill to deliver unexpected minerality, coconut complexity, and impressive depth at barrel proof.
Bluegrass Distillers 7 Year Blue Corn Bottled-in-Bond Bourbon
A uniquely nutty and honey-forward bourbon showcasing the distinctive character of blue corn with excellent balance and a soft, welcoming texture.
Midway Lee's Branch Toasted French Oak Finished Rye
A well-crafted rye finished in toasted French oak that balances rye spice with creamy marshmallow sweetness and festive spice notes.
Bluegrass Distillers Toasted Oak Bourbon Single Barrel (Bourbon Burn Benefit)
A balanced toasted oak bourbon with surprising depth and a dark chocolate quality that rivals much pricier expressions.
Bluegrass Distillers 11 Year Spanish Oak Finished Bourbon
A sophisticated and complex bourbon with savory spice balanced against sweet oak, showcasing the quality of aged Spanish oak finishing.
Bluegrass Distillers 18 Year Single Barrel Bourbon
A phenomenal 18-year-old bourbon of exceptional quality with rare fruit-forward notes and creamy texture that justifies its premium price.
Old Fitzgerald 7-Year Bottled-in-Bond
A solid wheated bourbon that delivers classic Old Fitzgerald profile in an elevated seven-year expression, though it doesn't quite match the leap shown by comparable competing releases.
Old Grand-Dad 7-Year Bottled-in-Bond
A significantly elevated expression of Old Grand-Dad that demonstrates excellent viscosity and balance, offering tremendous versatility for neat sipping or cocktails at an exceptional price point.
Old Forester Extra Extra Old (117 Series)
A sophisticated whiskey with a phenomenal nose that rewards patience and extended palate engagement, best appreciated over time with contemplation rather than quick assessment.
Evan Williams 12-Year Distillery Exclusive
An exclusive distillery offering that delivers mature, refined character and story at a premium price, though the palate is somewhat understated for its age and proof.
Maker's Mark Starhill Farms Wheat Whiskey
A bold departure from Maker's Mark tradition showcasing a new mash bill with exceptional palate complexity and a nose-palate disparity that rewards slow exploration.
Royal Tiger Straight Single Malt Double Cask
A pleasant, sweet Indian single malt that showcases Himalayan barley and double-cask aging but leans too heavily on confectionery notes for broad appeal.
Royal Tiger Straight Single Malt Sherry Cask
The sherry finish transforms the base spirit into a more refined and balanced pour, softening the excessive sweetness while adding depth and sophistication.
GlenMorangie A Tale of Ice Cream
A creative expression that successfully evokes dessert-like flavors through ex-bourbon cask aging, delivering an engaging chocolate-and-cream profile that rewards water or a cube.
Glen Scotia 10 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky
A well-balanced 10-year-old that punches above its lower proof with maritime character, subtle medicinal notes, and an elegant ginger-spiced finish.
Loch Lomond 12 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky
A sophisticated 12-year-old with lightly smoked stone fruit, honey sweetness, and warming spice that earned 2024 Scotch Whiskey Producer of the Year recognition from the IWSC.
Old Forester 100 Proof Single Barrel (Bourbon Hunters Pick — Where Else High Floor 2)
A well-executed single barrel that exemplifies why 100 proof remains the ideal proof for Old Forester's flavor profile.
Pursuit Spirits Single Barrel — Minick's Muffins (ISC Relay Stave)
An exceptional single barrel with distinctive pastry and maple-forward character enhanced by innovative stave selection.
Mary Dowling Wheated Bourbon
A well-balanced wheated bourbon with cherry and spice notes that demonstrates excellent texture and approachability at 93 proof.
Mary Dowling High Rye Tequila Cask Finish
A distinctly crafted high-rye bourbon with a restrained tequila cask finish that imparts subtle agave and earth notes without overwhelming the base spirit.
Mary Dowling Wheated Double Oak Cask Strength
A decadent cask-strength wheated bourbon with luxurious mouthfeel, dark fruit complexity, and a lingering oak finish that delivers concentrated, bold flavors.
RD1 Sister Cities Kentucky Straight Whiskey (Mizunara & French Oak Finish)
A uniquely balanced and measured expression that merges bourbon, rye, and exotic wood finishes into a sophisticated, approachable pour.
RD1 10 Year Kentucky Straight Bourbon Ambarana Finish Barrel Proof
A masterfully restrained ten-year bourbon that respects the base whiskey while adding nuanced Ambarana complexity—built for contemplation and memory-making.
RD1 French Oak Finish Kentucky Straight Bourbon Frazier Museum Single Barrel Barrel Proof
A French oak single barrel that delivers traditional bourbon flavor with a pleasant maple signature and approachable barrel-proof drinkability.
RD1 Red Oak Finish Kentucky Straight Bourbon Kroger Chris's Pick Barrel Proof
A compelling red oak finish that showcases unexpected dessert and citrus aromatics while delivering a sophisticated spice-and-mint finale.
Blanton's Single Barrel
A well-balanced, approachable bourbon with classic baking spice and caramel notes that paired beautifully with dark chocolate.
Old Fitzgerald 7 Year Bottled-in-Bond
A wheated bourbon with pleasant honey and cherry characteristics that integrated well with fruity chocolate pairings.
W.L. Weller 12 Year
A crowd-favorite wheated bourbon with concentrated cherry and oak character that created a memorable pairing when combined with spicy chocolate.
Old Grand-Dad Bottled-in-Bond 7 Year
A classic, value-oriented Jim Beam product with distinctive peanut character that added complexity to sweet chocolate pairings.
Laird's Apple Brandy
A versatile apple brandy that paired excellently with baking spice and apple-forward chocolate flavors.
Michter's Barrel Strength Bourbon
A high-proof, full-bodied bourbon with dark fruit and caramel depth that complemented baking spice chocolate without overpowering it.
Ardbeg Corryvreckan
A powerful peaty Islay scotch with smoke character that paired exceptionally with smoked cacao chocolate, elevating the smoke notes rather than overwhelming them.
Angel's Envy Cellar Collection Tawny Port Finish
An elegant high-proof bourbon finished in tawny port barrels with savory grape and dried fruit notes that paired beautifully with white chocolate and balsamic.
Old Forester Birthday Bourbon 2025
A well-balanced 12-year bourbon that drinks above its modest proof, anchored by ripe cherry and gentle oak spice.
Penelope Cigar Sessions
A unique cigar-companion whiskey blending bourbon, single malt, and light whiskey into a medium-bodied, fruit-forward pour with surprising depth for the price.
Bardstown Bourbon Company Hokkaido Mizunara Oak Barrel Finish
An exceptional showcase of Mizunara oak's transformative power across four distinct aged whiskey components, delivering savory sophistication and buttery elegance.
Jefferson's Reserve Cask Strength
A striking cask-strength bourbon that marries bright floral aromatics with bold cherry and nut character, punching well above its eight-year age statement.
Wyoming Whiskey Buffalo Bill Cody Bourbon
A six-year-old blend from 26 barrels that showcases impressive depth and balance with a distinctive leather-accented profile and delightful sweet-spicy character.
RD1 Sister Cities Whiskey
A well-integrated blend of finished spirits that delivers an intriguing balance of floral fruit and dry sandalwood spice, with milk chocolate and tart cherry throughout.
Milam & Green The Answer — Kentucky Aged
A remarkably bright, fruit-forward bourbon with an unexpected jalapeño-honey spice that creates a memorable sweet-and-spicy palate profile, akin to cinnamon-spiced applesauce cake.
Milam & Green The Answer — Texas Aged
A darker, denser expression shaped by Texas heat and aggressive barrel maturation, delivering cinnamon-spiced oak and tannin structure with considerably more robustness than its Kentucky sibling.
Angel's Envy Port Finish Single Barrel — Bourbon on the Banks Select
A richly finished port-barrel bourbon with dark fruit and fortified wine character that appeals broadly across bourbon drinker preferences.
Casey Jones Distillery Single Barrel Rye #838 — Bourbon on the Banks Select
A sophisticated rye that hides its grain identity well, making it an ideal introduction for bourbon drinkers curious about rye whiskey.
Bespoken Spirits 12-Year Riesling Finish Single Barrel — Bourbon on the Banks Select
An exceptional 12-year single barrel with concentrated flavor and Riesling-finish elegance that deserves savoring as a special occasion pour.
Short Barrel Spirits OZ Tyler (Green River) 8-Year Single Barrel 135.7 Proof — Bourbon on the Banks Select
A remarkable 8-year barrel pick that showcases incredible complexity, richness, and balance at cask strength without harsh heat.
Eagle Rare 10 Year
A classic warm-up pour with familiar cherry-forward character and balanced spice that delivers reliable everyday appeal.
Eagle Rare 12 Year
A polished, two-years-older expression that trades some sweetness for deeper oak and savory leather notes, making it a worthy step up.
LuxRow 12 Year Double Barrel
A marriage of two carefully selected barrels that unfolds into a rich, layered sipper with impressive viscosity and a finish that extends well beyond the initial sip.
New Riff 10 Year Bourbon
A viscous, high-proof expression that delivers concentrated spiced-candy flavors and impressive depth for the price, demonstrating New Riff's emerging mastery of their own juice.
New Riff 10 Year Rye
A deftly balanced rye where mintiness and candy sweetness on the nose give way to a sophisticated palate of citrus, pepper, and licorice that evolves through the finish.
Russell's Reserve 13 Year 2025 Release
The highest-proof Russell's Reserve ever released—a sophisticated, warehouse-funk-driven bourbon with remarkable depth and a finish that reveals cherry, citrus, and spice in elegant succession.
Far North Spirits Estate Rye Single Barrel (4 Year, 111.5 Proof)
A soft, grain-forward four-year rye with distinctive spiced-candy notes that shows promise but would benefit from additional aging.
Frey Ranch Nevada Straight Rye Single Barrel (6 Year, 118.5 Proof)
A beautifully balanced six-year Nevada rye delivering chocolate-covered fruit complexity with broad appeal and exceptional palate layering.
Corbin Cash California Straight Rye Single Barrel (7 Year, 133 Proof)
A high-proof California estate rye with exceptional flavor complexity—chewy, spiced, and chocolate-rich—though the 133 proof intensity may challenge some drinkers.
Lost Lantern Farmer's Fields Rye Blend (117.4 Proof)
A masterfully composed blend of four estate ryes that achieves silky, buttery balance with approachable mint-spice character and impressive blending craft.
Lost Lantern Kings County Distillery Empire Rye Single Cask (126.4 Proof)
A dark, bold Empire rye with exceptional depth—maple sweetness balanced against firm spice and chocolate—making it an excellent end-of-night sipper.
Buffalo Trace Single Barrel Select
A reliable single-barrel pick that showcases Buffalo Trace's accessible profile with solid value for the category.
Glenn's Creek R.W. Robinson's Legacy Infinity Whiskey (Barrel 4, Bottle 237)
An interesting infinity-barrel blend that showcases Glenn's Creek's layered approach to whiskey-making, with character that improves as it ages.
Castle & Key Cast Strength Wheated Bourbon 7 Year
A well-crafted wheated bourbon that drinks softer than its proof suggests, though it lacks the wow factor some expected for the hype surrounding the brand.
Whiskey Thief Mayday Rye 2025
A big, bold rye that wears its extreme proof with surprising restraint, delivering excellent barrel char and spice character that justifies the intensity.
Pursuit United Melwood Bottled-in-Bond Bourbon
A well-balanced, approachable four-year-old bottled-in-bond with bright apple and caramel notes that drinks right at its proof.
Pursuit United Derby Town 7-Year Barrel Proof Kentucky Bourbon
An exceptional seven-year barrel-proof bourbon with luxurious texture, mature oak integration, and a persistent, warming finish that elevates it to a premium sipper.
15 Stars Reserve Fine Aged Rye
A sophisticated multi-state rye blend with exceptional viscosity, mature candy and fruit notes, and a refined finish that drinks significantly richer than its 95-proof statement.
Laws Whiskey House San Luis Valley Rye Whiskey — Barrel 425X
A singular, experimental single barrel of exceptional proof with delicious dark chocolate and roasty smoke character that delivers complexity and intensity rarely found at such concentration.
Wild Turkey 8-Year 101 (2025 Release)
A spicier, more rye-forward iteration than typical Wild Turkey, with amplified caramel, chocolate, and peanut notes that benefit from proper aeration.
Wild Turkey 8-Year 101 — 70th Anniversary (2024)
A refined, aromatic expression with exceptional softness and sophistication that likely reflects careful barrel selection and blending input from Jimmy Russell.
Wild Turkey 8-Year 101 (2018)
An everyday sipper that represents the standard Wild Turkey 101 profile, ideal for mixing or casual enjoyment without sharp edges or surprising complexity.
Wild Turkey 8-Year 101 (2014)
A uniquely savory and textured expression with pronounced oak character and funk that stands apart from other bottlings in its lineup.
Wild Turkey 8-Year 101 (2002)
A concentrated, multifaceted expression with luxurious mouthfeel and remarkable depth that continues to reveal new layers, representing an exceptional example of the age-stated Wild Turkey profile.
Finger Lakes Distilling Pommeau Finish New York Straight Rye
A bright, spring-like finished rye that bridges fresh and baked apple flavors with subtle spice.
Starlight Distillery Honey Finish Indiana Straight Bourbon
A honey-forward bourbon with a floral introduction that delivers impressive sweetness and excellent stick-around factor on the finish.
Santa Fe Spirits Apple Brandy Finish New Mexico Single Malt
A regionally distinctive Southwest pour that marries grilled fruit and mesquite smoke into a uniquely memorable single malt experience.
New York Distilling Company Opulent Orchard Apple Brandy Finish New York Straight Rye
An exceptionally lush and silky seven-year rye that reveals complex dried fruit and spice layers through its lingering finish.
Watershed Distillery Nocino Finish Ohio Straight Bourbon
An extraordinary dessert and nightcap whiskey that transforms a soft nose into a walnut-and-chocolate-forward palate of exceptional depth.
Andalusia Whiskey Co. Tequila Finish Peated Texas Single Malt
An approachable peated single malt that balances regional tequila cask influence with restrained smoke for a sweet, creamy experience.
Minden Mill Nevada Straight Rye Whiskey
A sophisticated rye that drinks well above its four-year age, offering candied citrus and sweetness that appeals to those seeking an alternative to traditional peppery rye profiles.
Minden Mill Nevada Straight Bourbon Whiskey
A distinctly Western bourbon showcasing the earthiness of heirloom corn with an unexpectedly refreshing cool quality and cherry-forward sweetness that sets it apart from traditional Kentucky expressions.
Minden Mill American Single Malt Whiskey
An exceptional American single malt demonstrating the benefits of high-temperature distillation and meticulous barrel selection, with sophisticated fruit character and impressive viscosity that rivals established single malt traditions.
Laws Four Grain Straight Bourbon Whiskey Bottled-in-Bond
A carefully balanced four-grain bourbon that showcases all four American mother grains distinctly while maintaining excellent drinkability and complexity.
Laws San Luis Valley Straight Rye Whiskey Bottled-in-Bond
A distinctive rye whiskey that pulls pronounced character from its specific Colorado terroir and demonstrates the flavor impact of heirloom grain sourcing.
Laws Whiskey House Cognac Cask Finish Four Grain Solera
A beautifully integrated finished whiskey where the Solera process and French oak fooder aging have created a complex, refined expression suitable for contemplative sipping or pairing with cigars.
Laws Whiskey House Origins: Super Weeder
An ambitious, high-proof blended expression that marries grain-forward complexity with impressive structure—a statement whiskey for those seeking intensity and craft detail.
Woodford Reserve Distiller's Select Kentucky Derby Bottle 2025
A traditional Kentucky bourbon with the distinctive Woodford character, released annually with Derby artwork.
Penelope Bourbon Architect Series Third Edition
An MGP-sourced bourbon finished in French oak staves that delivers cherry and oak complexity at a reasonable price point.
291 Colorado Rye Whiskey M Aspen Wood Staves and Maple Syrup Barrel Finish
A high-proof Colorado rye finished in Aspen wood and maple syrup barrels that maintains a distinctive house character despite its creative finishing.
Pikesville Straight Rye Whiskey
A six-year-old Kentucky rye from Heaven Hill that offers approachable flavor and good value at its retail price point.
Whiskey Acres Estate Bourbon 5 Year
A bright, dessert-forward bourbon showcasing exceptional grain character with compelling cherry and baking spice notes throughout.
Frey Ranch Estate Bourbon 6 Year
A mature, well-aged bourbon with assertive barrel influence and spice that demonstrates solid oak integration and balanced proof delivery.
Lost Lantern Farmer's Fields Bourbon 5 Year
A nuanced blended bourbon that brings together grain-forward and earthy characteristics to create an unexpectedly savory and sophisticated expression.
Frey Ranch Estate Wheat Whiskey 6 Year
A delicate wheat whiskey with surprising complexity that balances fresh bread and floral aromatics against restrained spice and cream-forward palate.
Lost Lantern Far-Flung Bourbon 3
A multi-distillery blend showcasing exceptional mouthfeel and balance, with elegant citrus, almond, and chocolate notes creating a sophisticated sipper.
Old Hammer Cask Strength Bourbon
A stout, well-integrated five-year-old cask strength that showcases the unique Indiana corn-forward mash bill with surprising sophistication and sweet complexity.
Hugh Hamer Rum Finish Bourbon
A beautifully balanced rum-finished bourbon where the two-year Cruzan barrel maturation creates a malleable, sophisticated pour that enhances rather than dominates the corn-forward base.
Old Hammer 10-Year Straight Bourbon
A sophisticated, approachable 10-year-old that balances mature oak influence with the bright, sweet character of the corn-forward recipe, delivering an easy sipper with unexpected depth and refinement.
Four Roses Limited Edition Small Batch 2021
A grand old bourbon that balances fruit, floral, and oak with exceptional depth and elegance.
Four Roses Limited Edition Small Batch 2022
An oak-centric pour that showcases mature barrel influence but finishes shorter than expected.
Four Roses Limited Edition Small Batch 2023
A delicate, fruit-forward expression where the rare 25-year component adds subtle complexity to an otherwise elegant profile.
Four Roses Limited Edition Small Batch 2024
A delicate, silky bourbon where herbal and stone-fruit notes converge in a long, satisfying finish.
Todd's Blendageddon 2021 Recreation (Elijah Craig Barrel Proof 2020 Vatting with 1980s Heaven Hill BIB 10-Year)
A creative vatting that combines the robust profile of multiple Elijah Craig barrel proof 2020 batches with a rare dusty component to create an expertly balanced, award-winning blend.
Town Branch Kentucky Single Malt
A light, approachable single malt with fruity character and easy drinkability—ideal as an introduction to the American single malt category or a spring sipper.
Old Pepper Malt Whiskey
A well-crafted single malt with surprising depth—combining darker fruit complexity, subtle peat, and rich molasses notes in a bottle that punches above its price point.
Lost Lantern Mountain Meadow (St. George Spirits)
An exceptionally unconventional single malt that blurs the line between whiskey and wine with its intense citrus, floral, and hoppy aromatics—a genuinely unique experience that defies easy categorization.
New Riff Sour Mash Single Malt
A richly complex single malt with an ever-changing nose and deep, warming palate featuring layers of dried fruit, leather, and tobacco—ambitious in conception and rewarding in execution, though the multiple barrel types create some palatal competition.
Single Cask Nation — Westland Distillery Single Malt (Sauternes Cask)
A distinctive single malt that leverages its first-fill Sauternes cask to deliver a sweet-funky profile unlike most American single malts—a bold experimental choice that succeeds in creating genuine complexity and memorability.
Barrel 1261 — J. Mattingly 1845 MGP Bourbon
A fruit-forward bourbon with tropical character and excellent texture that evolves nicely through the palate.
Barrel 1189 — J. Mattingly 1845 MGP Bourbon
A brighter, sweeter bourbon with subtle floral notes and a smooth, buttery character.
Barrel 1221 — J. Mattingly 1845 MGP Bourbon
An herbaceous, back-palate focused bourbon with a dry, snappy finish and cherry notes.
Barrel 1227 — J. Mattingly 1845 MGP Bourbon, Toasted Stave
A toasted-stave bourbon with distinctive sweet and smoky qualities reminiscent of desserts and candied fruit.
Barrel 1223 — J. Mattingly 1845 MGP Bourbon
A savory, wood-forward bourbon with exceptional velvety texture and balanced oak integration.
Barrel 1238 — J. Mattingly 1845 MGP Bourbon
A bold, tobacco-inflected bourbon with dark fruit and savory character that stands out as a distinctive, full-bodied expression.
Jim & Todd's Custom Blend — J. Mattingly 1845 Bourbon
A masterfully composed blend that showcases the power of combining complementary barrels into a complex, well-balanced expression.
Jack Daniel's 10 Year Old Tennessee Whiskey (Batch 4)
An approachable and well-priced 10-year expression with fruit-forward character and soft spice that makes it sessionable.
Jack Daniel's 12 Year Old Tennessee Whiskey (Batch 3)
A richer and creamier expression than the 10 year with added complexity and a proof bump that amplifies body without overwhelming the fruit character.
Jack Daniel's 14 Year Old Tennessee Whiskey (First Release)
A full-throttle, high-proof expression that delivers dark fruit and oak intensity but sacrifices some of the sweetness and balance found in younger age statements.
Bardstown Bourbon Company Cathedral French Oak Barrel Finish
A masterfully blended and aged bourbon finished in legendary French oak that balances complexity with elegance without overwhelming the underlying spirit.
Woodford Reserve Chocolate Whisper Redux
A remarkably well-balanced high-proof expression where the chocolate character reads as an elegant whisper rather than an overwhelming shout, making it an excellent dessert whiskey.
Bourbon Barrels x Kirby Wine & Liquors Russell's Reserve Single Barrel — Tyrone F Floor 4
A well-balanced Russell's Reserve with classic spicy fruit character and excellent flavor integration.
Frankfurt Bourbon Society Russell's Reserve Single Barrel — Camp Nelson F Floor 4
A distinctive Camp Nelson expression with funk-forward character and complex layered flavors that appeal to warehouse enthusiasts.
Bourbon Barrels x Bourbon Outfitter JT Mellick American Rice Whiskey Single Barrel
A compelling and unique American rice whiskey that punches well above its age and price point with surprising complexity and sophistication.
Bourbon Barrels x Joe's Wine & Liquors Jack Daniel's Barrel Proof Rye Single Barrel
An impressively drinkable high-proof rye with excellent balance, rich flavors, and surprising smoothness that belies its 137.4 proof.
Still Austin Red Corn Bottled in Bond
A refined, sessionable pour with bright fruit and sweet caramel that emphasizes balance over intensity.
W.H. McBrayer Judge McBrayer Batch 3
A complex, historically rooted bourbon with distinct earthy character and sophisticated mineral complexity that rewards patience.
High Wire Distilling Jimmy Red Single Barrel
A full-bodied, beautifully balanced single barrel that delivers rich chocolate and caramel throughout the palate with impressive texture and depth.
Wood Hat Spirits Cast Strength Bloody Butcher Corn Whiskey
An intensely concentrated corn whiskey with striking barrel influence and molasses-forward character that demands engagement and rewards cigar pairing.
Old Crow Bottled in Bond (Distilled 1936, Bottled 1940) @ 00:04:33
A remarkable dusty that has held up beautifully for nearly nine decades, delivering magic on the palate with complex layers that defy its age.
Heaven Hill Bottled in Bond 6 Year (Kentucky Exclusive, c. 2018) @ 00:19:50
A solid and well-crafted six-year bourbon that exemplifies what an entry-level bonded whiskey should be—honest, approachable, and excellent value.
Detling Bourbon Bottled in Bond 1867 Single Barrel @ 00:41:27
An impressive and uniquely complex single-barrel bonded bourbon that showcases innovative mashing (including oats) and smart barrel placement despite challenging Southern heat.
Still Austin Straight Rye Whiskey Bottled in Bond (Spring Release) @ 01:03:20
A sessionable and well-balanced rye bonded whiskey that achieves surprising fruitiness and citrus brightness despite four years aging in Texas heat.
Laird's Straight Apple Brandy Bottled in Bond (c. 1980s–90s) @ 01:11:39
A well-made bonded apple brandy from America's oldest operating distillery that balances bright fruit with mature barrel influence.
Limestone Heritage Distilling Company Small Batch Bourbon
A respectable small batch bourbon that served well as an aperitif during discussion of Bourbon on the Banks planning.
Thomas H. Handy Sazerac Rye 2017 127.2 Proof
A well-preserved pre-Bourbon on the Banks BTAC rye that remains a hard-to-find gem with ample bottle life remaining.
Chambers Bay Blue Label Straight Bourbon Whiskey
A young, grain-forward bourbon with bright apple and spice notes that showcase the unique character of barrel-aging on a floating barge in Puget Sound.
Whiskey Acres Bottled-in-Bond Bourbon
A sophisticated farm-to-bottle bourbon from seed-to-glass distillers that showcases thoughtful grain engineering with evolving layers of fruit, spice, and oak throughout the tasting experience.
Iowa Legendary Rye Gold Label
A prohibition-era rye recipe using the original four ingredients and methods, delivering rich caramel and spice notes that evoke the bootlegging history of its creator's grandmother.
Mythology Distillery Man's Best Friend Cask Strength Bourbon
A vibrant, cask-strength blend showcasing bright orchard fruits and rich caramel notes that holds its own against premium allocated bourbons with impressive depth and complexity.
Gypsy Double Barrel Bourbon
An excellent introduction to double-barreled bourbon that delivers surprising depth and spice for its low proof and accessible price point.
Liberty Pole Spirits Old Monongahela Full Proof Rye Whiskey
A pot-distilled Monongahela rye that grows on you with air time, offering impressive grain-forward character and buttery depth that suggests a bright future as the distillery continues to mature its stocks.
15 Stars Fine Aged Spirits Three Ports
A masterfully executed triple port-cask finished bourbon that showcases serious age, complex fruit-driven character, and impeccable craftsmanship deserving of sipping neat.
Jacob's Pardon 18 Year Small Batch American Whiskey
An unusually complex American whiskey for the category, where 18 years of age provides layered sweetness and subtle sophistication that justifies its extreme proof and price.
All Nations Kentucky Straight Bourbon — 96 Proof
A well-crafted flagship bourbon that checks all the boxes with balanced sweetness, oak, and spice—award-winning and replicable year over year.
All Nations Small Batch Bourbon — 107 Proof
A sophisticated small-batch blend that balances proof and flavor beautifully, offering more complexity and finish than the flagship at an excellent price point.
All Nations Single Barrel Bourbon — Barrel #1329, 111 Proof
A well-selected single barrel offering excellent texture and balance between sweetness and oak, with a refined fruity character that represents the distillery's quality standards.
Garrard County Distilling Own Distillate — 192 Days, ~110 Proof
An impressive young distillate showing strong potential trajectory with excellent texture and early depth, suggesting this will develop into a quality product at maturity.
Garrard County Distilling Own Distillate — 230 Days, ~110 Proof
A well-progressing young distillate showing marked maturation in just 38 days, with oak integration happening on schedule and flavor complexity developing ahead of typical age expectations.
Jeptha Creed Red, White & Blue Straight Bourbon Batch 3 (2024)
A complex, full-bodied bourbon with an impressive arc from fruity nose to dark, tobacco-forward finish that suggests greater maturity than its four years.
Still Austin Blue Corn Bottled-in-Bond Bourbon
A clean, sessionable pour that washes across the palate without drama, finishing with a pleasant freshness and subtle bitterness.
Wood Hat Old Blue Single Barrel Cask Strength Corn Whiskey
A surprisingly soft and buttery corn whiskey with dessert-like cinnamon-bun sweetness and rich, lingering character that belies its formidable 127-proof strength.
Balcones True Blue Cask Strength Single Barrel Corn Whiskey
A roasted blue corn whiskey with commanding mid-to-rear palate presence and a savory-sweet profile anchored by grilled-corn character.
Smoke Eye Hill Barrel Proof Straight Bourbon Whiskey
A richly layered barrel-proof bourbon with evolving complexity, concentrated sweetness balanced by spice, and a creamy, decadent mouthfeel that rewards extended exploration.
Brothers Bond Straight Bourbon Whiskey Bottled in Bond
A legitimate award-winning bottled-in-bond with accessible pricing, though ultimately out-proofed by higher-proof competitors in the lineup.
Barrel Bourbon Cask Finish Series Ice Wine Finished Edition 001
A thoughtfully crafted dessert-style bourbon that rewards patience and warm-weather sipping, though the sweetness may prove cloying to some palates.
Bardstown Bourbon Company Collaborative Series Amrut
A compelling collaboration that showcases masterful barrel blending and thoughtful cask finishing, delivering complexity and discovery with every pour.
Maker's Mark The Heart 2024 Release
A darker, richer iteration of Maker's taste vision that stays true to the brand's gentle philosophy while adding complexity through virgin toasted oak.
Green River Foolproof Bourbon
A remarkable value bourbon that delivers classical flavor in spades with intensity and confidence at an extraordinary price point.
Elijah Craig Barrel Proof B524
A powerfully concentrated barrel proof that showcases masterful oak integration and nutty-sweet flavor complexity, though somewhat predictable in its intensity.
15 Stars Private Stock 8 & 15 Year Bourbon
A well-balanced blend that marries the fruitiness of younger bourbon with the oak maturity of older stock, creating an elegant and approachable sipper.
15 Stars Triple Cask 2
A sophisticated triple-cask finished blend featuring cognac, rum, and apple brandy casks that creates an elegant, fruit-forward whiskey with remarkable complexity and evolution in the glass.
Maker's Mark 46 French Oak
A smooth, nutty bourbon with distinctive French oak character that has become a popular choice alongside Maker's traditional offering.
Jefferson's Ocean Aged at Sea Voyage 28
A lighter, fresher bourbon with distinctive salt notes from ocean aging that creates an interesting and approachable drinking experience.
Larceny Barrel Proof
A bold, concentrated wheated bourbon at barrel proof that delivers intense flavor and spice, best saved for evening sipping.
Bardstown Bourbon Company Discovery Series 9
A well-balanced blend with strong fruit character and Georgia oak intensity, though slightly marked by a craft sensibility.
Bardstown Bourbon Company Discovery Series 10
A complex, character-driven pour with distinctive rickhouse funk and bright fruit notes that stand out as exceptional in the lineup.
Bardstown Bourbon Company Discovery Series 11
A rich, sweet expression with candied apple and toasted nut complexity, delivering an approachable and cognac-like drinking experience.
Bardstown Bourbon Company Discovery Series 12
A delicately textured, silky-smooth expression defined by buttery mouthfeel and subtle fruit notes rather than bold flavor declarations.
Borchetta Bourbon Small Batch (Lot 005W, 80 proof)
An easy-drinking, sessionable bourbon with light florals, orchard fruits, and caramel that rewards sipping without demanding attention.
Borchetta Bourbon Race Car Series AJ Foyt 1987 Lola Barrel #461 Cask Strength (127.47 proof, 7 Year)
An exceptional, award-winning cask strength expression that showcases depth, complexity, and masterful barrel selection with chocolate, cherry, and wood-forward character.
Wild Turkey 101 Jimmy's 70th Anniversary Edition
A well-crafted, limited-production tribute to Jimmy Russell that delivers the signature Wild Turkey character with impressive balance and complexity for an eight-year expression.
Old Grand-Dad 16 Year
A unique, rye-forward 16-year bourbon with a spectacular nose that exceeds the palate experience, delivering unusual and memorable flavors but at a premium price point.
Knob Creek Bourbon × Rye
An exceptional flavor bomb blending bourbon and rye that delivers impressive complexity, concentrated tasting notes, and remarkable value at $45 for 113 proof.
Booker's 2024-04 Jimmy's Batch
A solid, high-proof Booker's release with appealing caramel and spice notes, though it doesn't distinctly reflect Jimmy Russell's palate preferences beyond the name.
Milam & Green Very Small Batch No. 3
A well-crafted, fairly priced Texas-aged bourbon blending Kentucky and Tennessee distillates with a satisfying balance of spice and fruit.
Milam & Green Unabridged Volume 3
A complex, multi-layered bourbon with impressive depth and a notably longer finish that rewards careful exploration.
Jack Daniel's Distillery Series No. 14 Tennessee Straight Rye Whiskey Finished in High Toast Maple Barrels
A well-executed dessert whiskey with an exceptional maple-forward nose that excels as an after-dinner pour or paired with milder cigars.
Jim Beam Distiller's Share No. 7 Straight Bourbon Finished in Scotch Barrels with Worcestershire-Soaked Staves
A bold, experimental release that successfully bridges sweet and savory into a unique food-forward whiskey unlike any conventional finish.
Brothers Bond American Blended Rye Whiskey (Batch 3)
An exceptionally easy-drinking, complex rye that delivers impressive flavor balance and mouthfeel at 95 proof, with standout mint and citrus aromatics.
Wyoming Whiskey National Parks Small Batch No. 4 – Mammoth Hot Springs
A bright, accessible bourbon with playful candy notes on the nose that shifts earthier on the palate—well-suited to warmer weather sipping.
Casey Jones Founders 10th Anniversary Blend
A festive and adventurous blend that balances the sweetness of cane spirit with the depth of aged bourbon, delivering surprising complexity and a memorable experience.
Angel's Envy 2024 Cask Strength Straight Bourbon Finished in Port Wine Barrels
A sophisticated and intricate cask-strength expression that balances the richness of port finishing with bold bourbon backbone, delivering savory depth and memorable layering.
Michter's 10 Year Bourbon
A quality 10-year bourbon with consistent, well-integrated flavors and a memorable cherry-forward character that rewards careful sipping.
Spirits of French Lick Lost River Multi-Grain Bourbon
A multi-grain bourbon with unique character from an experimental distiller known for trying different approaches.
Henry McKenna 10 Year Bottled in Bond
A past Bourbon of the Year award winner that remains a solid value pour at 100 proof with consistent quality despite price increases from its original $30 retail.
Watch Hill Proper Single Barrel Wild Turkey Kentucky Spirit
A house-picked single barrel that delivers the reliable Wild Turkey character amplified by additional aging, offering more depth than standard bottlings.
13th Colony Single Barrel Bourbon
A well-regarded Georgia bourbon from a distillery with a strong reputation for quality single barrel selections.
Russell's Reserve 10 Year
A solid, affordable everyday bourbon that delivers reliable quality and flavor at a consistently fair price point.
Hidden Barn Organic Weeded Bourbon Whiskey
A well-balanced wheated bourbon with surprising complexity and a pleasant spicy character that defies expectations for the wheat-forward profile.
Hidden Barn Series 1 Cherry Picker Batch (24A)
An exceptional small-batch expression showcasing the unique character of Neely's wild yeast fermentation with bright fruit, butter, and unexpected complexity that demands sharing.
Hidden Barn Series 1 Seven Year French Oak Finish
A beautifully crafted seven-year expression where secondary French oak finishing adds depth and sophistication without overwhelming the delicate grain character of the base spirit.
Widow Jane The Vaults 2024 (Batch 5) 15 Year Ambarana Finish
A well-crafted Ambarana finish on older whiskey that layers exotic spice with savory complexity, though the finish dries considerably due to age and barrel influence.
Widow Jane Black Opal 20 Year Mizunara Finish
A masterfully blended 20-year whiskey finished in expensive Mizunara oak that balances creamy sweetness with complex savory depth and an impressively long, evolving finish.
Jack Daniel's Coy Hill High Proof Barrel House 8 Single Barrel #10 134.7 Proof
A remarkably smooth and flavorful high-proof single barrel that delivers apple-pie charm with buttery silkiness and doesn't drink anywhere near its stated proof.
King of Kentucky 2024 16 Year Single Barrel #10 130.4 Proof
An intense and complex single barrel with bold chocolate and cherry notes that evokes dessert-like sweetness, though the finish is more restrained than the impressive front palate.
Lost Lantern Thomas Foolery 10 Year Old Ohio Straight Bourbon
A thoughtfully crafted 10-year Ohio bourbon with impressive depth and complexity from its cool climate, showcasing subtle oak integration and complementary fruit and spice characteristics.
Lost Lantern Spirit Works 10 Year Old California Straight Rye
A vibrant California rye with exceptional citrus and minty characteristics that showcase the grain expression over oak, delivering a refreshing and distinctive profile.
Lost Lantern New York Distilling Company 10 Year Old Straight Rye
A sophisticated Brooklyn-made rye with a darker, more traditional flavor profile emphasizing chocolate and oak integration, offering a distinctly cooler-climate expression.
Lost Lantern Westland 9.99 Year Old American Single Malt (Peated)
A well-balanced peated American single malt that proves smoke can coexist gracefully with orchard fruit and warming spice, marking one of the oldest expressions ever released from Westland.
Liberty Pole Spirits Monongahela Rye Full Proof @ 00:03:07
A contemporary expression of the revived Monongahela rye tradition from a young Pennsylvania distillery.
Grand Traverse Old George Peated Straight Rye Whiskey Bottled in Bond @ 00:03:51
An intriguing fusion of peated barley and rye whiskey that bridges two distinct flavor traditions.
Three Cord Blended Bourbon Whiskey @ 00:04:44
A lower-proof blended bourbon sourced from Tennessee, Kentucky, and Indiana that serves as an approachable entry point.
Whiskey Thief Bottled in Bond @ 00:33:51
A Kentucky-style bottled-in-bond expression from a young craft distillery that demonstrates solid execution.
Traverse City Whiskey Co. Single Barrel Barrel Proof (Party Source Select, 6 Year, 115.6 Proof) @ 00:35:18
A robust MGP-sourced single barrel selection that delivers impressive complexity and structure at barrel proof.
Ardbeg Corryvreckan @ 00:37:08
A complex, smoky Islay single malt offering layers of peat and intrigue that justifies its devoted following.
Four Roses Small Batch Select @ 00:01:46
A well-balanced bourbon with excellent proof point and rich mouthfeel that delivers both spice and sweet complexity.
James B. Beam Distillers' Cut Batch 5 — Extended Fermentation 6 Year @ 00:02:27
A fine offering from the Distillers' Cut series with extended fermentation providing character at an approachable proof.
Luca Mariano Single Barrel Kentucky Straight Bourbon 103 Proof @ 00:03:06
A high-quality single barrel bourbon with an appealing deep amber hue that represents solid craftsmanship.
Larceny Barrel Proof A123 125.8 Proof @ 00:22:18
A robust barrel-proof expression that delivers the elevated proof and intensity expected from Larceny's premium offering.
New England Barrel Company Single Barrel Rye 11.5 Year 131.04 Proof MGP @ 00:24:31
A high-proof, well-aged rye with significant maturity that showcases the quality of aged MGP spirit in private selection.
Brothers Bond Bottled in Bond Straight Bourbon Whiskey (7 Year, 100 Proof)
A seven-year bottled-in-bond bourbon with nearly perfect balance, multiple competition awards, and exceptional value that stands confidently on its own merit as a top-tier whiskey.
Brothers Bond Straight Bourbon Whiskey — Made from American Regenerative Grain (95 Proof)
A distinctive blended whiskey from regenerative grain with a proprietary toast profile that delivers bright vanilla and honey notes with impressive texture and nuance for the proof point.
Four Branches Bourbon Founders Blend Handcrafted with Four Grains
A well-crafted, approachable bourbon with solid balance and a low barrier to entry that rewards patient sipping.
Chattanooga Whiskey Straight Bourbon Finished in Russian River Pinot Noir Casks
A delicately balanced bourbon-wine hybrid where the Pinot Noir influence gently complements rather than dominates the core Tennessee High Malt character.
Chattanooga Whiskey Straight Bourbon Finished in Duro Valley White Port Casks
A well-crafted white port finish that delivers more pronounced fruit influence than its Pinot Noir counterpart while maintaining excellent balance and approachability.
Chattanooga Whiskey Straight Malt Whiskey Finished in Silver Oak Alexander Valley Cabernet Sauvignon Casks
An impressively balanced single malt that demonstrates American whiskey sensibilities through its approachable profile while delivering sophisticated fruit and spice complexity.
Chattanooga Whiskey Experimental Batch 38 Peach Infused Gin Liqueur
A sophisticated barrel-aged gin liqueur that balances peach sweetness with herbal complexity and unexpected tartness, offering an unconventional but rewarding dessert-style pour.
McKing Kentucky Straight Bourbon 8 Year 86 Proof (German Export, 1970s)
A well-preserved dusty export with complex aging character and a satisfying mouthfeel that reflects its 1970s provenance.
Rebel 100 Cabernet Sauvignon Finish (European Exclusive)
A well-balanced wheated bourbon where the Cabernet finish adds bright red fruit and tannin complexity without overwhelming the base whiskey.
Whiskey Thief 2024 Bourbon on the Banks Festival Pick 134 Proof 6 Year
An exceptionally rich and flavorful six-year bourbon with remarkable complexity and layers that belie its youth, elevated by single-pass pot still distillation.
Dark Arts Whiskey House Tokaji Finish Festival Pick
A distinctly sweet and fruity bourbon with bright, floral Tokaji wine finish that creates a memorable dessert-like sipper.
High & Wicked Small Batch High Rye Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
A standout high-rye bourbon with mature character, excellent spice balance, and depth that belies its five-year age statement.
High & Wicked Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey
A clean, refreshing rye whiskey with traditional character and a cooling palate, though lighter-bodied than expected from the proof.
Old Forester 1924 10-Year-Old Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
A sophisticated ten-year bourbon with an unusual and memorable spice profile that sets it apart despite modest proof and pricing.
Hardin's Creek Golden Origins 11-Year-Old Kentucky Straight Corn Whiskey
An approachable and distinctive corn whiskey with creamy texture and honest corn character that rewards patient sipping despite its unconventional category.
Green River Full Proof Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
An exceptional value full-proof bourbon with rich texture, dark caramel depth, and spice complexity that punches well above its modest price point.
Russell's Reserve 15 Year
A rare, distinctively complex pour showcasing serious age character with elegant spice and chocolate depth.
Elijah Craig Barrel Proof A121
A solid, approachable barrel proof with prominent oak and a distinctly rich, mouth-watering character.
Elijah Craig Barrel Proof C922
A classic, approachable barrel proof expression with excellent balance and a lighter, brighter profile than its cohort.
Elijah Craig Barrel Proof C923
An exceptional, richly flavored barrel proof that combines elevated proof and age into a memorable, multifaceted pour.
Elijah Craig Barrel Proof A124
A remarkably smooth and creamy barrel proof with excellent texture and approachable elegance despite its younger age statement and lower proof.
Booker's 2016-06 "No Hard Times"
A bold, oak-forward expression that prioritizes intensity over refinement; not sessionable but respectable as a contemplative nightcap.
Booker's 2017-04 "Sip Awhile"
A masterfully balanced expression that combines approachability with depth, ideal for extended contemplation or pairing with food.
Booker's 2023-01 "Charlie's Batch"
A lighter, citrus-inflected expression with pleasant roasted nut and caramel character that drinks shorter than its age might suggest.
Booker's 2024-02 "Beam House Batch"
An exceptionally food-friendly expression with breakfast pastry sweetness and silky texture that makes an immediate impression.
Hard Truth Distilling Sweet Mash Rye – Mash and Journey / Hello Again Whiskey Friends Single Barrel Pick
A collaborative single barrel pick that represents a memorable distillery experience and showcases Hard Truth's commitment to quality rye production.
James E. Pepper Decanter Bourbon
A clean, well-crafted bourbon with solid flavor depth and remarkable value for a locally-distilled five-year-old spirit.
Templeton Midnight Rye
An unconventional but delicious blended whiskey-and-port that delivers genuine dessert appeal at an exceptional price point.
Bardstown Bourbon Company Collaboration Series – Silver Oak
A thoughtful Cabernet-finished blend showcasing the interplay between wine and bourbon without full integration, rewarding contemplation over one-note drinkability.
Maker's Mark Wood Finishing Series – The Heart (BR22A)
A well-balanced and approachable high-proof whiskey from Maker's Mark's experimental wood series, combining classic notes with subtle innovation.
Bardstown Bourbon Company 95.5 Rye Single Barrel (Mashing Journeys Pick)
A fresh-from-barrel rye with impressive texture and lingering spice that showcases the impact of cherry wood finishing.
Cazul 100 Sotol Plata
A clean, herbaceous sotol with subtle smoke and citrus that offers an interesting alternative to traditional agave spirits.
Ilegal Mezcal Añejo
A handmade mezcal with refined barrel character that balances smokiness with creamy vanilla and caramel notes.
JT Melick Louisiana Rice Whiskey Single Barrel (Mashing Journeys Pick)
A remarkably silky rice whiskey that initially presents as bourbon on the nose before revealing its own unique sweet, pancake-like character.
Foursquare Rum Détente
A complex blended rum with bourbon barrel influence that delivers deep molasses sweetness and smoke with a refined palate.
Spirits of French Lick Old Clifty Apple Brandy Single Barrel
An exceptionally well-crafted high-proof apple brandy that balances intense alcohol with buttery apple complexity and surprising approachability.
Leriken Bottled-in-Bond Bourbon 8 Year
An exceptional bonded whiskey with excellent flavor concentration and texture that offers great value for an eight-year-old expression.
Barrel Bourbon Cask Finish Series Ice Wine Finish Edition 001
A uniquely delicate yet flavor-forward whiskey that defies its nose with surprising savory depth and a memorable, evolving finish.
Pursuit United Double Oak Bourbon Kentucky Bourbon Festival Distillery Row Series Single Barrel
A concentrated, richly flavored bourbon with impressive mouthfeel and nostalgic dusty character that delivers exceptional complexity for an approachable proof.
Basil Hayden Malted Rye
An accessible, easy-drinking malted rye with a lovely floral nose that complements its light palate, well-suited for warm weather sipping or cocktail applications.
A. Overholt Monongahela Mash Straight Rye Whiskey
A quality rye that delivers surprising substance and complexity for the price, with excellent minty-spice balance and broad appeal for neat sipping or cocktails.
Bardstown Bourbon Company Origin Series High Wheat Bourbon
A well-crafted, grain-forward wheated bourbon that balances delicate florals with enough structure and spice to maintain interest, representing solid value in the specialty release market.
Whiskey Gypsi The Alchemist Batch 002 (Outsider Spirits)
A sophisticated, expertly blended after-dinner sipper with remarkable complexity and depth, where creative finishing and component selection create a uniquely dessert-forward flavor profile.
Elijah Craig Barrel Proof B524
A forceful, oak-forward barrel proof that impresses with age-appropriate depth and berry character, though the elevated proof heat and dryness on the finish place it slightly over the top for some palates.
Stagg Jr. Batch 10
A powerful, high-proof sipper with an unusual sternum-centric warmth and substantial finish, though the aggressive chest burn may not appeal to all palates.
Stagg Jr. Batch 12
A beautifully balanced high-proof bourbon that showcases vanilla and baking spice with a luxurious texture and extended finish—a sophisticated sipper's delight.
Stagg Batch 18
A disjointed bourbon that fails to cohere across the palate, with an abrupt transition from butter to dryness that undermines its otherwise solid components.
Stagg 23C
A well-balanced, lower-proof stag that delivers consistent warmth across the palate but sacrifices the extended finish that defines the line's strongest expressions.
Stagg 24A
A creamy, approachable contemporary release that balances vanilla and caramel sweetness with integrated oak and a notably longer finish than recent predecessors.
291 Bad Guy Colorado Whisky
A bold, beautifully constructed four-grain whiskey with impressive color and a syrupy sweetness balanced by fresh spice—a signature expression of Distillery 291's style.
291 Good Guy Colorado Rye Whisky
A unique four-grain wheated rye that defies category conventions with tropical undertones and a buttery profile—limited release (roughly 1,000 bottles) that punches above its proof.
291 E14 Colorado Rye Whisky Finished in Kentucky Rye Barrels
An exceptionally concentrated and unusually soft experimental rye finished in used Kentucky barrels—displays mature oak character and surprising sophistication for its age.
291 E15 Colorado Bourbon Whisky Finished in Kentucky Bourbon Barrels
A refined experimental bourbon finished in Kentucky barrels that prioritizes subtlety and elegance over boldness—ideal for drinkers seeking a softer, more delicate pour.
10th Mountain Straight Bourbon Whiskey (2-Year)
A creamy, well-textured bourbon with corn sweetness and nice caramel notes that offers surprising length for its youth.
10th Mountain Straight Rye Whiskey (2-Year)
An unusual and delightful rye with surprising malt character and mint notes that rewards contemplation and exploration.
10th Mountain American Single Malt Whiskey (2-Year)
A complex young single malt that successfully balances new oak with earthy malt character, winning best whiskey in class at Key West Invitationals.
Bulleit 10 Year American Single Malt Whiskey
A refreshing and approachable 10-year single malt with delicate floral and honey notes, ideal for warm-weather sipping.
Atelier V American Single Malt Whiskey
A young but accomplished single malt with a gentle Scotchy profile and subtle smoky notes that serves as an approachable introduction to peated whiskeys.
Old Line Navy Strength American Single Malt Whiskey
A rich and flavorful Navy strength single malt with pronounced cherry and cocoa notes that drinks smoothly despite its proof.
Cedar Ridge Quintessential Series Tokaji Finished American Single Malt Whiskey
An exceptional dessert-style single malt with a masterful balance of Tokaji influence and base spirit, offering rich cooked fruit and caramel notes.
Four Roses Limited Edition Small Batch 2021
An exceptional limited edition that showcases Four Roses' signature floral and fruity profile with remarkable balance and depth.
Russell's Reserve 13 Year Old
A phenomenal expression that delivers a powerful mid-palate punch of concentrated flavor with exceptional balance and a memorable finish.
Parker's Heritage Collection Double Barrel Blend 2022
A rich, full-bodied expression that exemplifies the benefits of double-barrel blending with dark, complex character and a creamy mouthfeel.
George T. Stagg 2023
An outstanding cask-strength bourbon that delivers a potent mid-palate concentration of flavor with remarkable texture and complexity.
Chattanooga Whiskey 91 Straight Bourbon Whiskey
An approachable, crushable everyday bourbon with rich complexity from specialty malts and exceptional value at its price point.
Chattanooga Whiskey 111 Straight Bourbon Whiskey
A bold, full-bodied sibling to the 91 that delivers dessert-like complexity and richness at a remarkable value for its proof and character.
Amrut Indian Single Malt Whisky
A well-crafted Indian single malt that bridges Scottish whisky traditions with tropical aging conditions, offering unique fruit and honey notes in a lighter, elegant package.
Bardstown Bourbon Company Amrut Collaboration
A boldly innovative collaboration that successfully balances malt, rye, and bourbon into a sophisticated, complex whiskey with a beautiful silky texture and lengthy, spiced finish.
Limestone Farms Select Batch 111 Proof
A well-constructed wheated bourbon with pleasant cherry and butterscotch notes that offers solid complexity and texture at a premium price point.
Limestone Farms Small Batch 9 Year 113.6 Proof
An oaky, refined nine-year-old with deeper, richer notes of dark fruit and plum that pairs excellently with cigars or heavy meats.
Whiskey Thief Distilling Mayday Rye 8 Year 117 Proof (2024)
A limited-release rye with a unique floral and citrus nose that delivers prominent black licorice on the palate, offering genuine complexity and value.
Whiskey Thief Distilling Hand-Filled Barrel Rye 8 Year (Est. ~118-120 Proof)
A hand-filled barrel-proof rye with exceptional depth, delivering dark chocolate, rye bread, and Betty Crocker cake mix flavors that showcase masterful aging and balance.
WH McBrayer Batch 4 Barrel Strength
A well-balanced barrel-strength bourbon that uniquely resurrects a historical mash bill while delivering modern sophistication and year-round drinkability despite its proof.
Cedar Brook Wheated Bourbon
A fresh and floral wheated bourbon offering pleasant contrast between upfront sweetness and mid-palate drying that appeals beyond typical rye-bourbon preferences.
Old Lewis Hunter 6-Year Bourbon (Export Bottling, est. 1970s)
A beautifully preserved dusty that survived 40+ years in the bottle with cherry, plum, and butterscotch notes intact—a testament to proper storage.
Old McBrayer Bottled-in-Bond Bourbon (2023, 100 proof)
A knockout bottled-in-bond with surprising depth—soft, sweet, and well-balanced with candy-forward spice that justifies the revival of this historic brand.
Old Ritter — Yellowstone Single Barrel Select (115 proof, Limestone Branch)
A unanimous barrel-pick selection that delivers nutty peanut brittle and cherry with a lingering oak finish—a personalized bottle that honors both the picker and the distillate.
Old Overholt 10-Year Cask Strength Rye (approx. 121 proof)
An exceptional 10-year rye that showcases the Pennsylvania style with fruity nose and bold spice—one of the finest older ryes available and a great value at the price point.
Southern Star Paragon Bottled in Bond Straight Bourbon Whiskey
An exceptional bottled-in-bond weeded bourbon that balances traditional bourbon character with unique plum and floral notes, offering a pleasant and well-integrated drinking experience.
Southern Star Double Rye Straight Rye Whiskey
An exceptionally well-crafted rye whiskey that blends high-rye and low-rye expressions with bourbon barrel finishing, delivering complex candied fruit and dill aromatics with surprising maturity and remarkable versatility at an accessible price point.
Bulleit 10 Year Old Bourbon
A bold, affordable local bourbon with impressive upfront spice and buttery texture, though the finish disappoints with its brevity.
Bulleit 12 Year Old Rye
An assertive, well-aged rye with excellent staying power and distinctive spice profile that outperforms the bourbon in finish length.
Middle West Spirits Soft Red Winter Wheat Whiskey
A delicate, well-balanced wheat whiskey with creamy texture and subtle oak influence that showcases the purity of its grain.
Middle West Spirits Dark Pumpernickel Rye Whiskey
A distinctive and memorable rye with bold floral and spice characteristics that showcase the unique dark pumpernickel variety and improve substantially with age.
Middle West Spirits OYO Michelone Reserve Wheated Bourbon
A sophisticated wheated bourbon with surprising mid-palate depth and exceptional balance that delivers more flavor than the initial nose suggests.
Limestone Farms Morgan Family Collection Select Batch Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
A well-crafted entry-level expression featuring excellent balance, rich texture, and layered complexity without overwhelming the palate.
Limestone Farms Morgan Family Collection Small Batch Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
An impressively complex small batch that balances cherry, oak, and spice in equal measure, rewarding extended sipping with multiple flavor dimensions.
Limestone Farms Morgan Family Collection Private Stock Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
An exceptional and rare expression with unique four-grain complexity that reveals layers of honeycomb, stone fruit, and tobacco, warranting careful exploration and cherished sipping.
Echo Spirits Barrel Proof Straight Bourbon Whiskey Batch 1
A promising young bourbon from Ohio's newest distillery with good aromatic potential and solid flavor despite its youth.
Indian Creek Distillery American Bond House Bourbon Whiskey Number 1
A dangerously approachable high-proof corn whiskey from a family operation with nearly 200 years of lineage, offering excellent balance and flavor.
Watershed Distillery Bottled in Bond Bourbon Whiskey
A well-crafted bonded bourbon offering consistency and smoothness at a reasonable price point, though with a more reserved aromatic profile.
Minglewood Distilling Bottled in Bond 100 Proof Bourbon Whiskey
A mature and well-balanced bonded bourbon with distinctive rye spice and candy notes that demonstrates the extra aging with complexity and depth.
Middle West Spirits Dark Pumpernickel Rye Straight Rye Whiskey Batch 017
A remarkably complex and flavor-forward straight rye with an unconventional four-grain bill that rewards extended palate exploration despite its undisclosed age.
Doc Schmickles Small Batch Root Beer Whiskey by Minglewood Distilling
A expertly crafted flavored whiskey that nails the vintage root beer barrel candy profile while maintaining whiskey integrity, making it an excellent dessert pour.
Never Say Die Small Batch Bourbon Whiskey
A quintessential Kentucky straight bourbon with excellent age and balance that works beautifully as both a neat sipper and cocktail base.
Pinhook Bourbon War 8-Year Vertical Series
A well-crafted eight-year bourbon that delivers solid flavor and value without being overwrought.
Michter's Barrel Strength Kentucky Straight Rye
A Kentucky rye that delivers exceptional flavor and approachability at barrel strength with excellent food pairing potential.
Old Forester 1924 10-Year-Old
A sophisticated wheated bourbon with surprising elegance that pairs beautifully with rich barbecue, delivering depth without heaviness.
Basil Hayden Malted Rye
A soft, approachable malted rye that excels as an introduction to the category and whiskey in general, with elegant floral and stone-fruit character throughout.
Old Maysville Club Bottled in Bond Kentucky Straight Rye Malt Whiskey
A sophisticated, layered malted rye that rewards patience and multiple sips, unfolding rich cocoa and honey-caramel complexity that justifies lingering over the glass.
New Riff Bottled in Bond Malted Rye Whiskey
A bolder malted rye that bridges traditional spicy rye character with the softness of malted grain, offering pleasant viscosity and a nuanced interplay of floral and spice notes.
ASW Resurgence Rye Malt Whiskey
A powerfully intriguing malted rye where a small addition of chocolate malt creates an outsized impact, delivering memorable cocoa and espresso complexity that evolves beautifully through the finish.
291 All Rye Colorado Whiskey
A remarkable high-proof malted rye that maintains approachability despite its power, offering dense layers of baking spice, fruit, and Aspen-wood-derived complexity in a sophisticated, sit-with-it-for-hours pour.
Jack Daniel's Old No. 7 Tennessee Whiskey
An honest, accessible whiskey that checks the boxes for a standard Jack Daniel's profile—sweet and smooth but thin-bodied for neat sipping.
Jack Daniel's 12-Year Tennessee Whiskey
A standout aged expression that transcends typical Jack Daniel's character, delivering complex spice, leather, and earthiness that rivals many premium whiskeys.
Gobbler Springs Sweet Mash Tennessee Whiskey
A light and approachable three-year-old whiskey aged with oak staves in the traditional moonshine method, delivering pleasant oak and spice without youth-driven harshness.
George Dickel 8-Year Tennessee Bourbon Whiskey
A smooth, daily-sipper bourbon that delivers classic Dickel minerality in muted form, though the finish is brief and the experience doesn't linger.
Redemption Bourbon
A well-balanced, approachable daily sipper that showcases the interplay between corn sweetness and rye spice at an excellent price point.
Redemption Cognac Finished High Rye Bourbon
An elegant, thoughtfully finished whiskey that balances cognac sophistication with bourbon character—perfect for contemplative sipping or cigar pairing.
Redemption Surly Rye
A groundbreaking rye whiskey using the Surly method with yeast lees aging that delivers unprecedented umami and savory notes while remaining accessible and food-friendly.
Town at the End of Tomorrow Kentucky Straight Bourbon
A well-aged, sophisticated bourbon that moves well beyond standard four-to-six-year profiles with compelling tobacco, spice, and subtle fruit notes.
Rise of the Robots Extended Cut Cast Strength Rye
An exceptionally smooth, mint-forward cast-strength rye that drinks well below its 108-proof statement with elegant spice integration and a remarkably long finish.
Wild Turkey 101 (Contemporary Release)
A reliable, everyday pour that exemplifies Wild Turkey's consistent house style at an excellent price point.
Wild Turkey 101 Eight-Year (2002 Release)
A richly textured expression that showcases the deeper character achievable when barrel entry proof and age work in concert.
Wild Turkey Rare Breed (Contemporary Release)
A powerfully flavored barrel proof that balances proof with accessibility and delivers genuine depth from its multi-age blend.
Wild Turkey Rare Breed (2015 Release)
An elegant and distinctly refined expression from the mid-2010s that showcases a drier, more floral profile than contemporary Rare Breed.
Casey Jones Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey (Small Batch)
A well-balanced, full-bodied bourbon that drinks smoother than its proof suggests, with rich oak and nutty complexity ideal for both sipping and pairing with cigars.
Casey Jones Single Barrel Weeded Bourbon (Four Grain)
A sophisticated four-grain weeded bourbon with award-winning credentials that offers surprising softness and freshness despite elevated proof, making it remarkably approachable.
Casey Jones Totally Eclipse Bourbon (Four Grain)
A limited-edition eclipse-themed bourbon with pleasant youthful character and refreshing apple and spice notes that celebrates a celestial event with approachable complexity.
Casey Jones Double Barrel Cut (Distilled Specialty Spirit)
A unique hybrid spirit blending corn and cane sugar across two barrel types, delivering an indulgent butterscotch-forward experience that appeals to those seeking something outside traditional bourbon.
Wilderness Trail Single Barrel Bourbon (Bottle A)
A well-crafted bourbon with engaging texture and flavor layering, notable for its distinctive vanilla-forward profile and smooth mouthfeel despite moderate proof.
Devil's River Single Barrel Bourbon 'Caramel Fudge' (Bottle B)
An exceptional single barrel with sophisticated candy and chocolate character that delivers depth and complexity while maintaining accessibility across the palate.
Traverse City Whiskey Company Barrel Proof Single Barrel (Bottle C)
A remarkably balanced and complex single barrel offering an unusual but harmonious marriage of bright citrus and buttery, dessert-like sweetness that unfolds beautifully across the palate.
Still Austin The Musician Straight Bourbon Whiskey
A surprisingly flavorful young Texas bourbon with appealing sweetness and complexity that punches above its price point.
Still Austin The Artist Straight Rye Whiskey
A complex, well-crafted young rye with distinctive aromatic florals and anise notes that delivers surprising depth for its age and price.
George Dickel 8 Year Small Batch Tennessee Whisky
A distinctly profiled Tennessee whisky with unique mineral and cherry notes that drinks smooth and approachable for those seeking refinement over intensity.
George Dickel 15 Year Single Barrel Tennessee Whisky Barrel #391
A mature single barrel expression that elevates Dickel's signature mineral profile with rich chocolate and malt depth, delivering outstanding value at the 15-year age statement.
Clyde May's Straight Bourbon Whiskey
A solid mid-shelf Alabama bourbon with characteristic rye spice and subtle fruit undertones that becomes more apparent with extended tasting.
Traverse City Whiskey Co. Single Barrel Straight Bourbon Whiskey 6 Year
An expertly selected MGP single barrel that checks all the classic bourbon boxes with impressive balance and depth for a sourced expression.
TX Straight Bourbon Whiskey Finished in Sherry Cask
A bold and characterful Texas whiskey with pronounced sherry cask influence delivering rich dark fruit, though a subtle medicinal note adds complexity rather than detracting.
Woodinville Whiskey Co. Private Select Single Barrel Bourbon
A well-executed Pacific Northwest single barrel select that demonstrates Woodinville's quality and consistency with true bourbon character at elevated proof.
Hardin's Creek Claremont 17 Year
A lighter, more delicate 17-year expression that retains surprising floral and honeyed notes alongside mature oak, making it equally suited to solo contemplation or pairing with a fine meal.
Hardin's Creek Frankfurt 17 Year
A drier, more pepper-forward expression that pairs exceptionally well with a cigar or evening contemplation, showcasing what Frankfurt's creek-valley location imparts over time.
Hardin's Creek Boston 17 Year
A nearly perfect expression distinguished by its satiny texture and masterful integration of spice with oak, standing beautifully on its own merits without need for accompaniment.
Hardin's Creek Distiller's Share Batch 4
A compelling study in blending ratios that demonstrates how smaller percentages can outsized aromatic influence, though the combination produces a slight bitterness that prevents seamless integration.
Early Times Bottle in Bond (Sazerac era)
A solid, value-priced bottle and bond whiskey with pleasant nutty and cherry characteristics that makes for an accessible everyday sipper.
Wild Turkey Rare Breed
An impressive barrel-proof expression that delivers complex, satisfying flavors at a fair price point and deserves a place on any serious drinker's bar.
Knob Creek 12 Year Straight Bourbon Whiskey
A well-aged, exceptionally pleasant whiskey that strikes an ideal balance between oak maturity and flavor complexity—truly a porch whiskey.
Cedar Ridge Quintessential Single Cask — Tokaji Cask Finish
An elegant, approachable American single malt that showcases how thoughtful cask finishing can create a whiskey that drinks well above its proof with genuine complexity and refinement.
Wuthering Sunrise (Larceny Bourbon cocktail)
A creative and well-balanced cocktail that successfully marries beer, bourbon, and tropical fruit into a drink with genuine novelty and drinkability.
Charlie Brown's Peanuts Christmas Eggnog (Screwball Peanut Butter Whiskey & RumChata cocktail)
A festive, dessert-forward cocktail with an impressive textural rim presentation that delivers genuine holiday spirit and memorable sensory experience.
Tennessee Christmas Mule (Jack Daniel's Single Barrel cocktail)
A crisp, well-constructed mule variation that balances tartness with the weight of single-barrel whiskey, making it equally suitable for holiday enjoyment or summer refreshment.
Christmas Bourbon Buck (Cedar Ridge Full Proof Bourbon cocktail)
A beautifully presented, well-balanced cocktail where barrel-proof bourbon depth integrates seamlessly with muddled cranberry complexity and bright citrus notes.
Blanton's Original Single Barrel (93 proof, dump date 11/18/22)
A solid, approachable single barrel with pleasant caramel and spice character that drinks well after about a year in the market.
Blanton's Straight from the Barrel (132.9 proof, 2021)
A potent barrel-proof expression that delivers impressive flavor complexity and sweetness without the burn typical of higher proofs.
Blanton's Original Single Barrel (93 proof, dump date 02/02/18)
A fruit-driven single barrel with cherry and caramel notes that demonstrates the flavor variation inherent in single-barrel bottlings.
Blanton's Special Reserve Green Label (80 proof, dump date 08/22)
An approachable, lower-proof expression with pleasant spice and nutmeg character that drinks smoothly without aggression.
Lawrenceburg Bourbon Company – The Bourbon Road Barrel Pick (Bourbon on the Banks)
A well-crafted single barrel bourbon with good body and balance, smooth enough to sip neat despite its higher proof.
Jeptha Creed Red, White & Blue Heirloom Corn Bourbon
A unique and conversation-starting bourbon with distinctive corn varieties creating an earthy, nostalgic profile that improves with aeration.
Fiddler Chin Music Toasted Bourbon
A well-balanced toasted bourbon with approachable sweetness that avoids overwhelming oak influence.
Fiddler Toasted Bourbon
A cask-strength bourbon with an exceptionally silky texture and complex layer of cherry and chocolate notes that makes it a standout pour.
Fiddler Toasted Rye
A well-executed toasted rye that balances classic rye spice with approachable sweetness from careful barrel finishing.
Fiddler Georgia Heartwood Bourbon
A phenomenal triple-oaked bourbon that showcases masterful use of wood influence, making it a category highlight and the hosts' favorite of the tasting.
13th Colony Southern Bourbon Whiskey
A well-crafted daily drinker with excellent oak maturation from Georgia's ideal aging climate, though the sweetness is the dominant character.
13th Colony Southern Rye Whiskey
An impressive French oak-aged rye that balances spice with unexpected fruit and silk, a platinum award-winner with genuine complexity.
Hemingway Signature Edition Rye
A thoughtfully finished rye that emphasizes sherry complexity over rye grain, reminiscent of barrel-finished bourbons, with meticulous bottling presentation.
Hard Truth Harvest Rye x Mellencamp Whiskey Company
A phenomenal collaboration featuring an unexpectedly rich, farmhouse-inspired flavor profile of buttered fruit preserves and caramel that transcends typical rye expression.
Benchmark Single Barrel (95 Proof)
A well-balanced, highly approachable pour that delivers genuine quality at a genuinely affordable price point with no trade-offs.
Weller Antique 107 — 2011 Release (107 Proof)
A sophisticated dusty with impressive balance, complexity, and subtle sophistication that demonstrates how production or storage approaches have evolved over the past 13 years.
Luca Mariano Gianna Loren Single Barrel Rye (97 Proof, 6 Year)
An impressively balanced Kentucky rye that delivers bourbon-like approachability with genuine rye character, making it an excellent gateway rye for bourbon-preferring drinkers.
James E. Pepper Bottled in Bond 1957 (100 Proof, 6 Year)
An exceptional dusty offering genuine historical significance alongside remarkable balance, depth, and sophistication that stands among the finest older bourbons tasted.
Filmland Spirits Moonlight Mayhem Extended Cut Blind Pig Single Barrel Cask Strength Straight Bourbon Whiskey
An excellent sipping whiskey with balanced sweetness, oak, and complexity that would pair well with an evening by the fire.
Buffalo Trace Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
A very pleasant and easy-drinking bourbon with approachable flavors that remains accessible and findable in the retail market.
Lucky 7 Spirits The Jokester Six-Year Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
A well-balanced and viscous bourbon with beautiful packaging that represents high-quality craft distillery work worthy of shelf display.
Jay Mattingly for Bourbon 30 Big Bad Wolf of Bardstown Single Barrel Straight Bourbon Whiskey (The Blind Pig Store Pick)
A powerful, high-proof single barrel that lives up to its bold name and represents a unique store pick that will never be repeated.
Cedar Ridge Straight Bourbon (86 proof)
A versatile, approachable flagship bourbon that balances sweetness and spice while remaining sessionable and suitable for both neat sipping and cocktails.
Cedar Ridge Barrel Proof Bourbon (116 proof)
A well-balanced, approachable barrel-proof bourbon with amplified oak and caramel notes that demonstrates how proof significantly impacts flavor perception.
Cedar Ridge Quintessential American Single Malt Whiskey Batch 13 (92 proof)
A delicate yet complex American single malt that balances accessibility with sophistication, showcasing the artistry of multi-cask finishing in a single program.
Cedar Ridge Quintessential Single Malt Tokai Cask Finish Single Barrel (117.8 proof)
A rich and complex single barrel that leverages Hungarian Tokai cask finishing to deliver deep preserves and floral notes in a well-balanced, flavor-packed pour.
Cedar Ridge Quintessential Special Release Portside
A bold, artistic single malt marriage that pushes the boundaries of American whiskey with maximum cask influence while maintaining exceptional balance and complexity.
Broken Barrel Small Batch 95 Bourbon Whiskey
A smooth, well-balanced bourbon with impressive oak integration and subtle sherry influence that delivers complexity without youthful notes.
Legends of Georgia Heritage Series Small Batch 8 Year Bourbon
An exceptionally mature and smooth 8-year bourbon that exhibits characteristics of much older whiskey, showcasing Michael's phenomenal filtration process and craftsmanship.
15 Stars 7 & 15 Bourbon Whiskey
A sophisticated marriage of 7 and 15-year bourbons that delivers remarkable depth, caramel sweetness, and aged complexity worthy of premium pricing.
Lawrenceburg Bourbon Company Cask 2 Seven-Year Rye Whiskey
A warmly welcoming high-proof rye whiskey with excellent spice character and remarkable comfort factor, demonstrating Greg's keen barrel selection ability.
New Riff Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey Bottled-in-Bond
A solid, well-made bottled-in-bond whiskey with excellent rye character and rich oak presence.
Bernheim Barrel-Proof Kentucky Straight Wheat Whiskey B923
A surprising Jekyll-and-Hyde wheat whiskey where a soft, fruity nose gives way to a hot, cinnamon-dominated palate and finish.
13th Colony 2023 Double Oak Bourbon Whiskey
An exceptionally dark, well-aged bourbon with rich maple, caramel, and chocolate notes that delivers impressive complexity despite its dangerously high proof.
ASW Distillery Druid Hill Irish-Style Single Pot Still Whiskey
A smooth, pleasant Irish-style single pot still whiskey with unique nutty and fruity notes that offers a refreshing alternative to traditional bourbon.
Woodford Reserve Kentucky Straight Wheat Whiskey
A light, approachable wheat whiskey with fruit-forward character and a thinner body that finishes a bit shorter than expected.
Bernheim Original Kentucky Straight Wheat Whiskey
A mature, full-bodied wheat whiskey with creamy sweetness and prominent oak aging that offers a warmer, more complex pour than typical wheat expressions.
Lawrenceburg Bourbon Company Very Small Batch (80 Proof)
An exceptional 80-proof bourbon that tastes like whiskey despite its lower proof, with rich corn character and surprising depth that allows for multiple pours in a session.
Lawrenceburg Bourbon Company Bourbon Road Single Barrel Pick (116.5 Proof)
An extraordinary outlier barrel with a rare candy-spiced, praline-like character that stands apart from standard single-barrel offerings and represents a unicorn find.
Lawrenceburg Bourbon Company 10x10 Rye (122.5 Proof)
A masterfully crafted 100% rye that showcases how a high-proof whiskey can express sophisticated complexity without heat, with earthy pine and forest notes elevating it beyond typical rye expressions.
Lawrenceburg Bourbon Company High Wheat Rye — Empirical Series #1 (119 Proof)
An exceptionally silky and velvety single-barrel rye with an unusual high-wheat mash bill that creates an almost creamy texture while maintaining sophisticated baking spice complexity—a remarkable whiskey that tastes unlike anything else on the market.
Copper & Kings American Craft Grape Brandy
A well-balanced brandy showcasing the fruit with graceful barrel integration, designed for the bourbon drinker.
Copper & Kings Butchertown American Brandy
A higher-proof reserve expression with excellent character and balance, showcasing what careful barrel selection can achieve.
Copper & Kings American Craft Apple Brandy
A clean, fruit-driven brandy that drinks smoothly at lower proof and showcases the transformation of apple through fermentation and distillation.
Copper & Kings Kentucky Straight Bourbon Finished in Apple Brandy Barrels
A well-crafted bourbon that respects its base spirit while adding a subtle and thoughtful secondary finish from apple brandy barrels.
W.L. Weller 12 Year
A rich and approachable wheated bourbon with layered caramel and spice that explains its enduring popularity among bourbon enthusiasts.
W.L. Weller Full Proof
A solid full-proof wheated bourbon offering robust character while maintaining the approachable profile typical of the Weller line.
Talnua Single Pot Still American Whiskey – Virgin White Oak Cask
A great whiskey that brings Irish single pot still style to American production with lovely floral and stone fruit characteristics.
Breckenridge Bourbon Whiskey
A solid, light bourbon that checks all the boxes—approachable and easy to sip, particularly on a hot day.
Leopold Bros. Straight Bourbon Whiskey
A unique and different bourbon with an interesting rye-driven spice character and excellent balance between malted barley nuttiness and oak integration.
291 Colorado Whiskey Single Barrel Barrel Proof
An exceptional barrel-proof Colorado whiskey with Aspen-stave finishing that delivers surprising smoothness and remarkable depth of flavor.
Five Trail Barrel Proof Bourbon
A bold, high-proof bourbon with surprising complexity and balance that delivers spice, sweetness, and unique dessert-like depth.
Hard Truth High Road Rye @ 00:03:11
A well-balanced lower-proof rye with surprising complexity that brings down the price point while maintaining the distillery's signature bright fruit character.
Hard Truth Sweet Mash Rye Mash Bill RW1 Single Barrel Tours and Tastings Selection @ 00:31:49
A cask-strength rye with surprising maturity and complex sweetness that defies its young age, delivering richness and spice in a big, bold package.
Hard Truth Caramel Malted Rye Master Distillers Reserve Series @ 00:48:31
A sophisticated limited-release that showcases the distiller's personal favorite, marrying caramel-malted barley complexity with rye spice and corn sweetness in perfect balance.
Knob Creek 12 Year
A reliable, well-made 12-year bourbon that delivers solid vanilla and caramel notes in an approachable, easy-sipping package.
Yellowstone Hand-Picked Selection 115 Proof (Total Wine Exclusive)
A sweet-and-spicy pour driven by its rye content and high proof, best suited for cold-weather sipping rather than hot summer nights.
John J. Bowman Single Barrel Virginia Straight Bourbon
An intriguing Virginia bourbon with pronounced dark chocolate and leather on the palate and a surprisingly long, warming finish.
Old Forester Whiskey Row Fire Commemorative 7 Year 100 Proof
A well-made charity commemorative with a refined nose and palate, held back by a shorter-than-desired finish for the age and proof.
Heaven Hill Bottled-in-Bond 6 Year 100 Proof
An exceptionally smooth and approachable discontinued bottled-in-bond that delivers surprising depth and consistency for its original price point.
Lincoln Pinch Small Batch Bottled-in-Bond Bourbon (4 Year, 100 Proof)
A well-crafted wheated bourbon at 100 proof that balances softness with spice, demonstrating excellent barrel influence and suitable for both sipping and cocktail applications.
Lincoln Pinch Single Barrel Cask Strength Bourbon Barrel #126 (117.6 Proof)
A dangerously drinkable cask-strength whiskey that defies its proof with remarkable smoothness and balance, serving as an ideal porch sipper with subtle complexity.
Whiskey Thief Five-Year Smoked Rye Bourbon (Barrel #3, 108.3 Proof)
A well-crafted five-year bourbon with subtle smoked rye character that avoids being polarizing while delivering smooth fruit and mint notes.
Whiskey Thief Five-Year Rye Whiskey (115.8 Proof)
A vibrant five-year rye whiskey with pronounced spearmint and wintergreen character that demonstrates how barrel aging can transform rye into candy-like complexity.
Bourbon 30 90 Proof
A sessionable, approachable flagship bourbon with consistent vanilla-nutty notes and subtle spice, ideal for relaxing at day's end or mixing in cocktails.
Bourbon 30 100 Proof
A sophisticated higher-proof expression that delivers surprising softness with fruit-forward and creamy characteristics, proving higher proof doesn't necessarily mean harder bite.
J. Mattingly 1845 Funkadelic Rye
A brightly expressive rye with Christmas spice and fruit-forward notes that bridges bourbon and rye profiles, perfect for autumn and cooler months.
J. Mattingly 1845 Pineapple Sunshine American Light Whiskey
A remarkably creative tropical-spiced light whiskey that blends pineapple fruit with chili pepper and nutmeg for an unexpected and memorable profile.
J. Mattingly 1845 Spirit of the Bluegrass Barrel Proof Bourbon
A paradoxical barrel-proof bourbon that delivers softness alongside dark malt and butterscotch character, defying its proof with a gentle yet complex hand.
Spirits of French Lick Hindostan Falls Single Barrel (Frankfurt Bourbon Society / Bourbon on the Banks Pick)
A distinctive bourbon showcasing the Amanda Palmer heirloom corn varietal with fruity sweetness and complexity that stands apart from conventional whiskeys.
Spirits of French Lick Lost River Multi-Grain Bourbon (Big Red Liquors Barrel Pick)
An accomplished multi-grain whiskey that successfully balances six different grain components into a cohesive, visibly complex pour with exceptional mouthfeel.
Wilderness Trail Four-Grain Blended Bourbon (Frankfurt Bourbon Society / Bourbon on the Banks 2022 Barrel Pick)
A thoughtfully blended bourbon that marries the buttercream vanilla of a weeted mash bill with the baking spice of a rye recipe to create a harmonious, well-balanced expression.
Spirits of French Lick Bonded Barrel-Aged Old Tom Gin
An exceptional barrel-aged gin where extended oak contact fundamentally transforms the botanicals into a sophisticated cedar-juniper expression that transcends typical barrel-rested gins.
Chicken Cock Kentucky Straight Bourbon
A well-balanced bourbon with excellent barrel character and restrained proof that allows the oak-derived flavors to shine.
Chicken Cock Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey
A remarkably mature young rye with clean spice and surprising sweetness that belies its brief time in barrel.
Chicken Cock Eight-Year Double Oak Whiskey
A sophisticated double-oaked expression with surprising cherry and dessert notes that delivers premium quality and exceptional complexity.
Chicken Cock Red Stave (Unreleased Preview)
An exceptionally unique wine-finished bourbon that masterfully balances bourbon character with sophisticated Petite Syrah influence, creating a premium collector's expression.
Uncle Nearest 1856 Premium Whiskey
A well-crafted Tennessee whiskey with historical significance that performs admirably as both a sipper and cocktail base.
Jack Daniel's Sinatra Select
A distinctive Jack Daniel's expression that delivers unexpected fruitiness and a refined drinking experience worthy of its premium positioning.
Davidson Reserve Tennessee Straight Rye Whiskey
An exemplary 100% Tennessee rye that showcases excellent use of local ingredients with a bright, herbal character and clean finish ideal for rye enthusiasts.
Russell's Reserve Single Barrel Select – Camp Nelson A, Floor 4
An expertly aged Camp Nelson single barrel showcasing Wild Turkey's signature character with a remarkably persistent finish and well-integrated oak.
Maker's Mark Private Selection "Fireside Spice"
A silky, exceptionally sweet wheated bourbon with impressive texture and approachable spice from its French oak stave selection.
Knob Creek Single Barrel Select 120 Proof
A bold, well-aged oak-forward bourbon that delivers a captivating nose and excellent value despite its high proof and prominent tannic structure.
Buzzard's Roost Char 1 Straight Bourbon Whiskey
A well-crafted secondary-barrel bourbon with heavily toasted oak that delivers surprising freshness and versatility for both neat sipping and cocktails.
Buzzard's Roost Char 1 Straight Rye Whiskey
A sneaky-good, high-proof rye that proves bourbon drinkers can enjoy rye when proper barrel finishing brings out complimentary notes without harsh spice.
15 Stars 7 & 15 Year Old Private Stock Bourbon
An exceptionally well-balanced blend that delivers both the fruity vitality of younger bourbon and the sophisticated depth of aged whiskey, representing top-tier craftsmanship and one of the finest whiskeys tasted this year.
15 Stars Triple Cask Bourbon
A sophisticated finished bourbon that showcases excellent blending technique and restraint, allowing the underlying spirit to shine while the cask finishes add meaningful complexity and depth.
15 Stars First West Rye
A well-crafted rye that balances the sweetness of quality heirloom corn with the spice of a Kentucky rye, delivering honey and citrus notes without the typical aggressiveness of high-rye expressions.
15 Stars Platinum (First West Series, Unreleased)
An extraordinary demonstration of aged bourbon blending that achieves remarkable smoothness and complexity at lower proof, with fig and spice notes that evoke the warmth of sitting by a campfire with s'mores.
15 Stars 14-Year Timeless Reserve
A balanced and refined extra-aged bourbon that showcases elegant maturity with dark chocolate and leather notes, making it an ideal companion to contemplative moments or shared occasions with friends and family.
Dueling Grounds Distillery Lincoln Pinch Single Barrel Cask Strength Bourbon 4-Year-Old 120 Proof
An excellent single barrel with distinctive spice character and complexity that nearly earned bourbon of the year consideration.
Neely Family Distillery 4-Year-3-Month Wheated Bourbon Sample
A solid wheated bourbon sample from a distillery known for award-winning expressions including notable Absinthe-finished bourbons.
Three Chord Cask Finished Bourbon & Corn Whiskey – Honey Toasted Batch 1
A well-balanced honey-finished whiskey that avoids becoming syrupy, with the toasted barrel integration allowing the honey to complement rather than dominate.
Midway Lot 25 Rye Whiskey Finished in Vermouth Barrels
A refreshingly unique Manhattan-inspired rye that successfully translates vermouth flavors into whiskey form with cherry and cream notes, offering something genuinely different on the market.
Hemingway First Edition Straight Rye Whiskey – Rum Seasoned Oloroso Sherry Cask Finish
An exceptional and unexpected rye whiskey that transcends traditional rye character with savory, meaty, and nutty complexity from the rum-seasoned Oloroso finish, delivering impressive complexity at 100 proof.
Cooper's Craft 100 Proof
A solid, drinkable bourbon with good balance that Jim would enjoy sipping throughout the show.
Wolcott Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey (90 Proof)
A solid middle-of-the-road rye bourbon that drinks easy neat, versatile for mixing or cooking, and represents excellent value at the price point.
Penelope Four Grain Straight Bourbon Whiskey (80 Proof)
A sweet and pleasant affordable pour with creamy texture and vanilla forward character that doesn't blow anyone away but makes a good buy at the price.
Weller Special Reserve (90 Proof)
A classic entry-level wheated bourbon that offers soft, sweet, honey-forward character with a comforting oaky finish and serves well as a reset whiskey to recalibrate expectations.
Jack Daniel's Bonded Tennessee Whiskey
A well-crafted bottled-in-bond expression with deeper flavor than standard Jack Daniel's, offering good value at its price point.
Old Forester 100 Proof Bourbon
An underrated bottled-in-bond bourbon with pleasant sweet fruit character that deserves more attention than it receives.
Nelson's Greenbrier Tennessee Handmade Sour Mash Whiskey
A sessionable, easy-drinking Tennessee sour mash whiskey with light sweetness and pleasant peppery spice.
Jack Daniel's Single Barrel Select (2020)
A rich, sweet Jack Daniel's single barrel with notable chocolate character and classic Tennessee whiskey appeal.
Old Dominick All the Cookies Bourbon R&D Batch (Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Beer Barrel Finish)
A creative R&D batch bourbon with oatmeal raisin cookie beer barrel finishing adding distinctive character.
Davidson Reserve Tennessee Straight Bourbon Whiskey Single Barrel (122 Proof)
A robust, flavor-packed single barrel bourbon showcasing expert distilling and skillful blending from Pennington.
Old Smoky Salty Watermelon Whiskey (60 Proof)
A sweet, approachable flavored whiskey with watermelon candy notes and subtle salt, best enjoyed as a light sipper.
Wild Turkey 101
A solid warm-up bourbon with balanced spice and approachable heat that remains the most versatile expression in the Wild Turkey lineup.
Wild Turkey Diamond Anniversary
A genteel tribute to Jimmy Russell's 60th anniversary that delivers concentrated flavor and lingering finish despite modest proof.
Wild Turkey 101 12-Year Export 2022
An exceptional export expression that combines classic Wild Turkey DNA with mature complexity, delivering concentrated flavor and a finish that justifies seeking it out internationally.
Russell's Reserve Single Barrel Rye 2022
A non-chill filtered Kentucky rye that transcends typical rye expectations, delivering bourbon-friendly sweetness and aromatics in a deceptively complex single barrel that rewards discovery.
Green River Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey @ 00:07:33
A smooth, well-crafted six-year bourbon best enjoyed neat, with excellent caramel notes and a surprising port-influenced finish.
Angel's Envy Louisville Thoroughbred Society Barrel Pick (110 Proof) @ 00:31:00
A dark, sweet, port-finished bourbon with robust proof and caramel-forward character that transforms noticeably with water.
R6 Straight Bourbon Whiskey (86 Proof)
A well-balanced, sessionable straight bourbon with appealing spice and fruit notes that shows refinement for its youthful age.
R6 Straight Rye Whiskey (86 Proof, Never Chill Filtered)
An accessible, highly sessionable rye whiskey with a gentle palate that makes it ideal for rye newcomers or light sipping.
Lawrenceburg Bourbon Company One Cask Series Bourbon – Barrel 1
A nuanced, approachable four-year bourbon with distinct earthy and spicy characteristics that rewards contemplation.
Lawrenceburg Bourbon Company One Cask Series Bourbon – Barrel 3
A sophisticated, full-bodied sipper with floral elegance and complex mid-palate depth that delivers exceptional maturity for its proof and age.
Lawrenceburg Bourbon Company One Cask Series Rye – Cask 2
A remarkably approachable seven-year rye that drinks like a summer sipper despite 116 proof, making it an ideal entry point for rye newcomers.
Lawrenceburg Bourbon Company One Cask Series Rye – Cask 1
A rich, candy-forward rye with complex licorice and medicinal notes that excels as a cozy winter sipper best enjoyed neat or in contemplative moments.
Lawrenceburg Bourbon Company 10x10 Blended Rye (Unreleased)
A sophisticated Alberta rye blend that defies its proof with silky character and surprising subtlety, making it equally sublime neat or in classic cocktails.
Fiddler Unison Bourbon
A well-balanced entry-level bourbon that bridges sourced and house-made whiskey with a distinctive malt presence and solid body for 90 proof.
Resurgence Rye
A uniquely approachable rye whiskey with s'mores-like character that softens the typical rye spice while maintaining excellent distillate quality and depth.
Duality Double Malt
A bridge whiskey that skillfully balances American bourbon sweetness with European malt whiskey smoke and leather, appealing to drinkers of both traditions.
Fiddler Georgia Heartwood
A distinctive single-barrel bourbon finished on hand-harvested Georgia oak that delivers unexpected sassafras and maple notes alongside strong oak presence, designed for whiskey collectors seeking depth and regional character.
Fiddler Amburana
An experimental bourbon finished in Brazilian Amburana wood that pushes the boundaries of the category with unexpected floral and cinnamon spice notes, appealing to collectors and those seeking whiskey that challenges conventions.
RD1 Kentucky Straight Bourbon
A balanced, approachable straight bourbon with prominent corn sweetness balanced by rye spice and citrus notes that deliver a pleasant, well-structured pour.
RD1 French Oak Finish
The French oak finish elegantly transforms the base bourbon, introducing chocolate and cherry complexity while softening the rye spice into a more refined, layered drinking experience.
RD1 Ambarana Wood Finish
An exceptionally adventurous and rich wood-finished bourbon that delivers extraordinary tropical and spice complexity rarely found in traditional bourbon finishes, making it a memorable and distinctive pour.
RD1 Maple Finish (Campfire Brunch)
A carefully balanced maple-finished bourbon that delivers genuine dessert and breakfast nosing while maintaining whiskey integrity, offering a sweet entry point without the harshness of flavored whiskeys.
RD1 Cask Strength Straight Bourbon
A full-proof expression that drinks surprisingly smoothly and accessibly despite its 122-proof strength, delivering earthy, savory, and fruity complexity that showcases the mash bill's maturity.
291 Colorado Bourbon Whiskey Single Barrel Barrel Proof (126.1 proof)
A bold, rugged bourbon with excellent structure that would pair well with cigars or cocktails, showcasing the versatility of high-rye bourbon at barrel proof.
291 Colorado Whiskey Single Barrel Barrel Proof (129.1 proof)
A distinctive rye whiskey with a flavor profile unlike anything else on the market, offering excellent balance and a memorable sensory experience.
291 All Rye Batch 1 (132.6 proof)
An exceptional 100% malted rye that defies expectations with its silky smoothness and balanced sweetness, remarkable for its ease of drinking at over 130 proof.
291 Single Malt Experimental (142.8 proof, unreleased)
A magical and highly refined single malt that transcends its relatively young age, offering sophisticated complexity and remarkable balance that would be cherished by any whiskey collector.
Blackened X Wes Henderson Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
A port-finished collaboration between Metallica and Wes Henderson that impresses with a lively finish but feels somewhat imbalanced between its soft entry and aggressive back end.
Heaven's Door Single Barrel Straight Bourbon Whiskey (Total Wine Select)
A bold, high-proof single barrel selection from Bob Dylan's Heaven's Door that commands attention with its assertive entry but rewards with a pleasant finish.
Jefferson's Ocean Voyage 25
An elegant and sessionable sipper with sea salt caramel and fruity notes, though the proof is slightly low for the price point.
Green River Weeded Bourbon
A soft, approachable weeded bourbon ideal for warm-weather sipping and long afternoons on the porch.
Larceny Barrel Proof B523
A robust and buttery barrel-proof weeded bourbon with excellent palate balance that would make a memorable hot toddy despite a spirited nose.
Kentucky Owl 2023 Mardi Gras Rye
A uniquely finished rye with an unconventional rum-barrel influence and distinctive spearmint-forward finish, though the premium price limits its universal appeal.
Legends Heritage Series High Rye Bourbon
A refreshing, year-round high rye bourbon with sweet entry and subtle spice that drinks smoothly without aggression.
Legends Heritage Series Small Batch 8-Year Bourbon
A sophisticated high-corn bourbon where oak maturation has achieved excellent balance, delivering toffee and caramel complexity without excessive youth.
Legends 115 Weated Bourbon
A beautifully refined wheated bourbon that maintains its signature smoothness while developing greater complexity and oak presence with four years of age.
Legends Single Barrel High Rye Bourbon
A barrel-proof high rye that showcases purification technology by delivering full flavor and a soft finish at 123 proof without the expected heat.
Broken Barrel Americana Whiskey
A sessionable, refreshing daily sipper with gentle sweetness and light oak influence that works year-round.
Broken Barrel Little Oak Straight Rye Whiskey
A well-balanced rye with prominent but non-drying oak character that combines sweetness and wood complexity.
Broken Barrel Reserve Oak Series Kentucky Straight Bourbon — Peach Brandy Cask & French Oak Finished
A dessert-style whiskey with unexpected richness and complexity that delivers peach and maple flavors without excessive sweetness.
Broken Barrel Rare Americana 6-Year — Orange Curaçao & Barbadian Rum Cask Finished
A bold, rum-like finished whiskey that masterfully blends high proof with approachable sweetness and sugar cane character.
Evan Williams Bottled in Bond (White Label, 100 Proof)
A solid bargain bourbon that delivers standard quality with a pleasant nutty character at an accessible price point.
Evan Williams Bottled in Bond — Interstave French Oak Medium Toast / Maple Enhanced Seasoning Finish (100 Proof)
A dramatically elevated expression of Evan Williams that showcases the immediate and impressive impact of secondary oak finishing with maple enhancement.
Kentucky Owl The Wiseman Bourbon
A solid, entry-level bourbon from Kentucky Owl that's pleasant upfront but unbalanced on the finish.
Kentucky Owl The Wiseman Rye
A well-rounded rye whiskey with more complexity and balance than its bourbon counterpart, featuring pleasant sweet and herbal layers.
15 Stars Fine Aged Bourbon
An impressively crafted bourbon with excellent balance, rich cherry and nut character, and a sophisticated finish worthy of its premium price.
Old Elk 2022 Infinity Blend
A complex, multi-layered infinity blend that showcases excellent craftsmanship with buttery richness and evolving flavor complexity.
Larceny Barrel Proof A123
A potent, fruit-forward barrel proof with impressive impact and a long, complex finish that rivals higher-priced competitors.
Wild Turkey Long Branch
A smooth, approachable sipper with surprising creaminess for its proof and an intriguing mesquite character that sets it apart.
Russell's Reserve 10-Year Bourbon
A layered, sophisticated whiskey with impressive spice complexity and excellent oak integration that rewards careful sipping.
Wild Turkey 101
An honest, versatile workhorse bourbon with confident spice and oak that justifies its legendary affordability and widespread availability.
Wild Turkey Rare Breed Barrel Proof
A bold, full-bodied barrel-proof expression that delivers concentrated flavor and impressive complexity with a warming, persistent finish.
Jim Beam White Label Bourbon
A solid entry-level Kentucky bourbon with classic corn sweetness and oak influence, ideal for mixed drinks and approachable for newcomers.
Wilderness Trail Distillery Bourbon Road in Paradise Barrel Pick #1
A robust and flavorful high-proof bourbon with rich butterscotch and molasses notes that delivers impressive depth and a memorable, lengthy finish.
Traverse City Whiskey Co. American Cherry Edition
A smooth, approachable cherry-infused bourbon that balances natural fruit character with genuine whiskey flavor, appealing to both seasoned drinkers and newcomers alike.
New Holland Beer Barrel Bourbon Dragon's Milk Stout Edition
An intriguing barrel-finished bourbon that merges bourbon character with subtle stout barrel influence, delivering complexity and sharpness in a smooth, drinkable package.
Buffalo Trace Single Barrel Store Pick – Hometown Liquors Henderson KY
A cornerstone daily drinker that offers comfort and accessibility with just enough spice and oak to keep it interesting.
Elijah Craig Toasted Barrel – 94 Proof
A dessert-forward bourbon that leverages the toasted barrel finish to deliver rich caramel and sweetness without becoming cloying.
Down Home Medium Toast Single Barrel – Liquor Barn Pick LB #4 – 110.8 Proof
A seasonal winter bourbon that balances spice and subtle sweetness with surprising smoothness for its proof point.
Smoke Wagon Uncut Unfiltered Batch 48 – 113 Proof
A high-rye bourbon with distinctive spice and cigar-friendly profile that delivers more complexity than initial proof might suggest.
Elijah Craig Barrel Proof C920 – 132.8 Proof
A velvet hammer that combines exceptional smoothness and richness with surprising power, delivering cherry, caramel, and almond in perfect balance.
Wild Turkey 101 12 Year (2022 Export, 700ml)
A mature, complex upgrade over standard 101 with impressive depth and balance across nose, palate, and finish.
Russell's Reserve Single Barrel — Lawrence Berg & Loretto Pick, Rick House E 4th Floor, 10 Year, 110 proof
A complex, well-rounded single barrel with a unique tropical-to-orchard fruit progression and chocolate notes that tasted excellent at barrel proof before cutting to 110.
Wild Turkey Kentucky Spirit 2019, Warehouse K, Rick #6
A solid Kentucky Spirit single barrel with distinctive orange peel citrus character and good oak integration.
Wild Turkey Master's Keep Bottled in Bond 17 Year
A crowning achievement of Eddie Russell's career—a mature, well-balanced bottled-in-bond expression with sophisticated char, fruit, and spice that avoids excessive dryness despite significant age.
Weller Full Proof – Silver Dollar Bar Pick #10
A pleasant full-proof bourbon with a light touch that drinks easily but lacks the depth and finish length of the session's standouts.
Redline Whiskey Barbados Rum Cask Finish
A marginally better whiskey than the Weller with a more interesting palate and longer finish, but the quiet nose and unclear finishing character hold it back from standing out.
291 Colorado Whiskey Single Barrel – Westport Wine & Whiskey Pick
A flavor-packed, ambitious whiskey finished in Aspen staves that delivers bold sweetness and complexity, nearly matching the session winner in overall quality despite ranking second.
Barrel Dovetail
A beautifully composed, elegant barrel-aged bourbon that showcases refined flavor complexity and a smooth, rewarding finish—the clear favorite of the blind tasting.
Evan Williams Bottled-in-Bond with Interstave CaskCubes (French Oak Maple) – In-Bottle Finish Experiment
A remarkably successful in-bottle finishing experiment that transforms a solid bottled-in-bond bourbon into something with unexpected depth and sophistication through French oak maple cask cube infusion.
Hard Truth Sweet Mash Rye Batch 1
A remarkably well-rounded and flavorful young rye with impressive oak maturity and layered sweetness and spice.
Jack Daniel's Double Barrel Single Malt Finished in Oloroso Sherry Casks
A surprising and delicious single malt expression with rich malty and fruity character, exceeding expectations for Jack Daniel's venture into single malt.
Dueling Grounds Lincoln Pinch Kentucky Straight Bourbon Single Barrel
A well-crafted wheated bourbon with impressive depth of flavor, spice balance, and mouth-coating texture from a small Kentucky distillery.
Chattanooga Founders 10th Anniversary Blend
A harmonious blend of high malt and MGP whiskeys that successfully combines past and present into a chocolate and spice-forward pour.
Town Branch American Single Pot Still Whiskey Virgin White Oak Cask
An impressively sessionable American single pot still with Irish-style buttery sweetness and layered spice complexity.
Wild Turkey Masters Keep Unforgotten
An unexpectedly excellent blend of bourbon and rye finished in a rye cask with remarkable spice character and complexity that sustains through the entire palate.
Wild Turkey 101 12 Year Export
A beautifully crafted aged Wild Turkey with elegant oak integration and cherry-forward character that drinks below its proof with impressive depth.
Old Carter Single Barrel Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, Barrel #1, 14 Years, 117.6 Proof
A beautifully balanced 14-year-old single barrel that displays complexity and richness without harsh alcohol burn.
Old Carter OC Very Small Batch Bourbon (3-Barrel Blend), 117.6 Proof, 507 Bottles
A thoughtfully composed three-barrel blend that achieves nuance and complexity typically found in larger batches.
Old Carter Small Batch Bourbon #14, 117 Proof, 3,046 Bottles
An all-double-oaked bourbon that brings depth and richness through careful secondary barrel selection while maintaining balance.
Old Carter American Whiskey (8-16 Year Components), 130+ Proof
A high-proof American whiskey leveraging eight- to sixteen-year-old components to create a bold, complex dram that stands apart from the bourbon lineup.
Calumet Farm 14-Year Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
A solid bourbon with good Barton character, though the 96-proof bottling leaves it feeling slightly underpowered for its age.
Calumet Farm 15-Year Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
The proof bump elevates this expression into a sweet spot where oak, spice, and caramel notes are well-balanced and satisfying.
Calumet Farm 16-Year Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
This expression has crossed into over-oaked territory, shedding the fruit and balance of its younger siblings in favor of a heavily tannic, woody profile that requires a specific preference for heavily aged bourbon.
Calumet Farm 8-Year "The Pedigree" Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
An accessible and sessionable bourbon that demonstrates the family DNA while offering a livelier, fruit-forward profile than its older siblings at a compelling price point.
Hard Truth Sweet Mash Rye Whiskey Batch 5
A well-crafted sweet mash rye that drinks considerably older than its three years, with appealing candy-forward characteristics and balanced spice that would satisfy both bourbon enthusiasts and casual drinkers alike.
Michter's US*1 Small Batch Bourbon
A solid, inviting bourbon with bready character and good viscosity that works as both an everyday sipper and an excellent entry point for newcomers to bourbon.
Filmland Spirits Rise of the Robots, Serve the Drinks, Save the World Rye Whiskey
A well-crafted, sweet rye whiskey with excellent mouthfeel and a distinctive minty profile that works beautifully neat or in cocktails.
Filmland Spirits Moonlight Mayhem Extended Cut Bourbon
A bold, well-balanced high-proof bourbon with impressive complexity and a memorable finish that rewards patient sipping.
Filmland Spirits Moonlight Mayhem Bourbon
An accessible, everyday bourbon that balances approachability for newcomers with enough depth to satisfy experienced drinkers.
Devil's River Distiller Select Texas Straight Bourbon Whiskey
A significantly improved expression over the previous Devil's River release, offering impressive viscosity, depth, and flavor complexity for a two-year-old Texas whiskey at an excellent price point.
Jeptha Creed Four Grain Bourbon
A balanced entry expression showcasing estate-grown bloody butcher corn with malted grains that create an inviting, earthy-sweet profile with gentle spice on the finish.
Jeptha Creed Red, White & Blue Bourbon
A complex, veteran-honoring release that balances three heirloom corn varieties into a remarkably smooth and nuanced bourbon with buttery caramel and subtle spice.
Bloody Butcher's Creed Master Distiller Select Single Barrel Rye Bourbon (Cask Strength)
A Kentucky Homestead-style single barrel offering deep, dark fruit and robust spice that defies its cask strength with remarkable smoothness and complexity.
Jeptha Creed Wheeted Bourbon (Unreleased Cask Sample)
A remarkably soft and velvety wheated bourbon with custard and cream notes that balances sweetness with subtle spice, demonstrating wheat's unique maturation character.
Goodwood Kentucky Straight Bourbon – Bourbon Barrel Stout Finish
A well-balanced bourbon barrel stout finish that imparts chocolate and roasty character without overwhelming the base whiskey.
Goodwood Kentucky Straight Rye – English Mild Finish
A thoughtful pairing where the English mild finish mellows the rye's natural bite while introducing complementary bright, fruity, and spiced notes.
Goodwood × Three Chord Collaboration Kentucky Straight Bourbon – Russian Imperial Stout Finish
A sophisticated limited collaboration that showcases pronounced tobacco and chocolate notes enhanced by the Russian Imperial Stout finish, appealing to discerning bourbon enthusiasts.
Goodwood Kentucky Straight Bourbon – Honey Ale Finish
A nuanced honey-finished bourbon that balances initial sweetness with a dry, tobacco-tinged finish and maintains good structure and drinkability.
Weller Antique 107
A wheated bourbon with spicy candy and cherry character that delivers a classic wheated bourbon experience.
Henry McKenna 10 Year Bottled in Bond
A rich bottled-in-bond bourbon with distinctive banana bread notes that delivers quality liquid in the bottle.
JTS Brown Bottled in Bond @ 00:06:29
A solid, affordable daily drinker that delivers good value and easy drinkability without any standout character.
Four Roses Single Barrel (Warehouse CS, Barrel #28, 100 Proof) @ 00:19:20
An elevated, well-balanced bourbon with excellent aromatic integration—nose and palate match nicely—delivering fruit, spice, and oak in harmony.
Blanton's Original Single Barrel UK Release (Warehouse H, Barrel #1191, Rick #10, 93 Proof, Dumped August 15, 2018) @ 00:34:04
A gentle, well-aged Blanton's that pleases the palate with balanced spice and oak, though lighter in body than the higher-proof expression.
Blanton's 2020 Special Release (Warehouse H, Barrel #371, Rick #32, 117 Proof) @ 00:53:24
A special international barrel pick offering impressive viscosity, richness, and complexity that elevates the Blanton's profile well above the standard release.
Filmland Spirits Moonlight Mayhem Extended Cut
A respectable 115-proof bourbon with solid oak and caramel character that drinks well neat and makes an excellent conversation piece with its striking werewolf-themed label and veteran-owned backstory.
Knob Creek 18 Year Old Bourbon
A thoughtfully proofed 18-year expression that balances significant oak maturity with drinkability, offering a sophisticated sipping experience better than the 15-year predecessor without becoming overly tannic.
Calumet Farm 16-Year Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
An over-oaked 16-year-old expression that has lost much of its sweetness and approachability, better suited for cigar pairing than solo sipping.
Talnua Virgin White Oak Single Pot Still Whiskey
A grain-forward, well-balanced single pot still whiskey that successfully marries Irish distillation tradition with American virgin oak aging, offering compelling complexity for the category.
Talnua Single Barrel Bottled in Bond Single Pot Still Whiskey
America's first bottled-in-bond single pot still whiskey—a historic expression with mature complexity, compelling spice, and the viscosity expected of this pioneering category.
Wilderness Trail 8-Year Bottled-in-Bond Bourbon
One of Big Chief's favorite distilleries with a reliable, quality bottled-in-bond expression.
Russell's Reserve 10-Year Bourbon
One of the best sub-$50 bottles on every shelf, consistently reliable and well-regarded.
Chattanooga Whiskey Single Barrel Weated Mashbill
A local single-barrel selection celebrating the home region with a wheat-forward profile.
Hard Truth Sweet Mash Rye Barrel Strength
A formulation developed in close consultation with Pat and Shane that hits the mark with a well-executed sweet mash rye.
Parker's Heritage Heavy Char 10-Year Bourbon
Adam's absolute favorite, ranking in his top three expressions and a consistently impressive pour.
Widow Jane 10-Year Overproof Bourbon You'll Never Walk Alone
A solid favorite selection that Adam values for its consistent quality and drinkability.
Thomas H. Handy Sazerac Rye 2017 Vintage
A vintage high-rye bottling that Jim valued enough to reserve for personal collection rather than share at the festival.
Woodinville Whiskey Co. Store Pick Westport Whiskey and Wine Selection
One of the best Woodinville bottlings the hosts have experienced, representing excellent craftsmanship from the West Coast producer.
Michter's Toasted Barrel Finish Bourbon
A well-crafted, smooth bourbon with excellent balance and creaminess that showcases Michter's quality distilling.
Castle & Key Small Batch Bourbon 2022 Batch 4
A well-balanced small batch bourbon at approachable proof that delivers a pleasant, everyday sipping experience.
American Highway Reserve Bourbon Batch 2
A well-executed celebrity bourbon that successfully blends sourced corn whiskey with traditional bourbon flavors for a distinctive and enjoyable pour.
Master's Keep Toasted Oak Finish 101 Proof
A premium expression that demonstrates excellent craftsmanship and depth, worth savoring and keeping in regular rotation.
Old Line Spirits American Single Malt Whiskey Cask Strength
A complex and uniquely spiced American single malt with substantial barrel influence, stone fruit character, and horehound spice—a sophisticated sipper best enjoyed contemplatively by the fire.
Willett Weited Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey 8 Year
A beautifully crafted wheated bourbon with impressive spice complexity for its style, smooth balance at high proof, and a memorable creamy, fruity palate that delivers excellent value despite premium pricing.
Elijah Craig Barrel Proof C922
A powerful and complex barrel proof bourbon with bold spice, cherry, and pecan notes that demands respect and rewards careful sipping.
New Riff Red Turkey Wheat Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
A solid wheated bourbon that showcases the unique red turkey wheat variety with balanced flavors and clean execution.
New Riff Single Barrel Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey Barrel #8202
A well-executed single barrel expression that delivers more intensity and character than the standard offering.
Michter's 10-Year Single Barrel Kentucky Straight Rye @ 00:03:43
A solid and well-crafted rye that Ed from Bourbon Obsessed was enjoying at the VIP tent.
Broken Barrel Luciferous American Single Malt (Private Barrel Pick) @ 00:06:14
A well-received private barrel pick for a northern California club that impressed the hosts.
Broken Barrel Honey Smoke Mezcal & Honey-Finished Rye Whiskey 101 Proof @ 00:06:14
A mezcal and honey-finished rye that has been Broken Barrel's most well-received limited edition to date, driving strong consumer enthusiasm.
Knob Creek 18-Year Bourbon 100 Proof @ 00:07:29
A well-balanced 18-year expression that avoids excessive oakiness while delivering complexity and depth.
Preservation Distillery Immaculata @ 00:21:32
A newly released expression that was identified as the favorite whiskey of the day by a festival attendee.
EJ Curly Bourbon Mule @ 00:22:15
A refreshing bourbon mule cocktail featuring a uniquely developed flavor profile that impressed the hosts with its chemistry and balance.
Barrel Craft Spirits Bourbon Slushie @ 00:23:30
A delicious and refreshing bourbon slushie that won over a first-time festival attendee and was ranked among the best cocktails of the event.
Yellowstone 101 @ 00:25:56
A well-regarded expression available at the festival that veterans identified as a standout pour requiring a special request.
Mythology Hell Bear American Whiskey
An easy-sipping, light-bodied blended whiskey that works well as a spring or summer sipper with straightforward, uncomplicated flavors of corn sweetness and citrus zest.
Three Chord Tennessee Straight Whiskey
A solid, sessionable Tennessee whiskey with pleasant sweet tea and citrus character that serves as a good everyday pour at a fair price point.
Redline Single Barrel Toasted Straight Bourbon Whiskey (Barrel #79, Bottle #213)
A well-crafted single-barrel toasted bourbon with impressive spice-forward character and solid construction that merits shelf space consideration.
Starward Twofold Double Grain Australian Whiskey
A sessionable, approachable gateway whiskey with excellent balance of fruit and cereal notes at an accessible price point.
Starward Nova Single Malt Australian Whiskey
A luscious, complex single malt with buttery texture and stone fruit character that rewards extended contemplation and reveals new layers with each sip.
Brush Creek Straight Bourbon Whiskies
A well-crafted blend of three sourced whiskies that proves versatile as a straight sipper or in cocktails, with spice-forward character and a pleasant sessionable quality that improves with time in the glass.
Old Elk Double Wheat Bourbon
A wheated bourbon blend that overcomes an aggressive nose to deliver an impressively smooth and sippable palate.
Old Elk Double Wheat American Whiskey @ 00:02:06
A skillfully blended, full-flavored wheat whiskey that balances sweetness and spice with impressive texture and complexity, earning strong recommendation for wheat enthusiasts and distillery aficionados alike.
Castle & Key Restoration Rye Single Barrel Pick – Basement Rick House Selection (Barrel #260, 5 Year)
A bridge rye that appeals to both rye enthusiasts and bourbon drinkers skeptical of the category, showcasing robust baking spice complexity without the aggressive heat typically associated with rye whiskey.
Starlight Distillery Four-Grain Bourbon Finished in Brazilian Amburana Oak – Basement Rick House Single Barrel Pick (114.6 Proof)
An exceptionally unique and memorable bourbon with distinctive tobacco and snickerdoodle aromatics from Brazilian amburana oak finish, ideal for experienced whiskey enthusiasts but likely polarizing for newer drinkers.
Hardin's Creek Jacob's Well
A beautifully aged 15-year expression that balances rich barrel extractives with pleasant spice and surprising cherry notes, commanding attention in its age range.
Hardin's Creek Colonel James B. Beam
A bold two-year-old whiskey that proves young bourbon can command attention through innovative distillation techniques, delivering unexpected complexity and a distinctive honey-roasted grain character.
Little Book Chapter 5
A well-crafted blend with notable spice and corn-forward sweetness that pairs nicely with rich food courses.
Knob Creek 9 Year Single Barrel Reserve
A fall and winter sipper with excellent balance of oak, cherry, and coffee notes that represents the sweet spot of Knob Creek's age range.
Booker's Bourbon
A quality finisher that brings sugar and spice to close out the evening with characteristic Booker's depth.
Leapers Fork Single Barrel Cask Strength Tennessee Whiskey — Barrel #79 (Made South / Southern Whiskey Society Pick)
A well-crafted Tennessee whiskey that represented a strong barrel selection, though narrowly edged out by the experimental maple cask expression in the tasting group's preference.
Leapers Fork Experimental Release — Maple Syrup Cask Finished Tennessee Whiskey
A unique and special experimental release that impressed the hosts with its distinctive character, offering an intriguing dessert-style whiskey that delivers a memorable finishing experience with the maple syrup cask influence.
Ben Holliday Bottled-in-Bond Missouri Straight Bourbon Whiskey 6 Year 100 Proof
A well-crafted Missouri straight bourbon with excellent spice and oak integration, delivering a fair value at $60 with a character that rivals larger distillery bottled-in-bonds.
Rebel Bourbon 80 Proof
A soft, light-bodied wheated bourbon that becomes nearly invisible when mixed with ginger ale.
Maker's Mark 90 Proof
A notch above entry-level, but the wheated softness still gets absorbed by the ginger ale mixer.
Larceny 92 Proof
A wheated bourbon that stands up respectably in a highball, allowing light caramel and wheat notes to shine through.
Four Roses Yellow Label 80 Proof
Delicate floral and spice notes are overwhelmed by the mixer, resulting in a soda-like highball rather than a whiskey-driven one.
Very Old Barton 100 Proof
A proof-forward, spicy bourbon with enough backbone to shine clearly in a ginger ale highball.
Wild Turkey 101
A well-balanced bourbon with enough proof and sweetness to pair beautifully with ginger ale while maintaining distinct spirit character.
Yellowstone Select Single Barrel – Frankfurt Bourbon Society Pick
A candy-sweet four-year-old bourbon with surprising rye character and dark fruit notes that shows excellent maturity for its age.
Castle & Key Restoration Rye Single Barrel – Frankfurt Bourbon Society Pick
An exemplary rye whiskey that tastes unmistakably like rye with excellent dark fruit and candy notes, demonstrating impressive maturity over 4.5 years.
Hardin's Creek Jacob's Well
A sophisticated, age-forward bourbon that demands an appreciation for oaky, tannic, tobacco-forward profiles and is best suited for experienced ultra-aged whiskey drinkers.
Breckenridge Rum Cask Finished Colorado Bourbon
A well-crafted rum cask finish that successfully marries Colorado bourbon's base whiskey with tropical sweetness and butterscotch notes, making it an approachable and drinkable sipper.
Elmer T. Lee Single Barrel Bourbon
A soft and approachable bourbon with fruity and caramel character that honors a World War II veteran's legacy.
Old Weller Antique 107 (Weller Full Proof)
An excellent wheated bourbon that delivers a refined, smooth experience worthy of keeping on the shelf.
Knob Creek 12 Year
A bold and characterful 12-year-old that competes favorably with older expressions through its perfect balance of sweetness and wood.
Wilderness Trail Eight Year Old Rye Bourbon Bottled in Bond (Batch 17F2221)
An impressive eight-year-old bourbon showcasing excellent complexity and development with fruity, nutty, and butterscotch characteristics at a fair price point, easy to drink despite its depth.
Leopold Brothers Three Chamber Rye Whiskey Bottled in Bond 2021 Collector's Edition
An expertly crafted revival of lost pre-prohibition rye tradition using a historical three-chamber still, offering exceptional complexity, silky texture, and a finish that ranks among the finest ryes ever tasted.
Fourgate Batch 22 – Indiana Foundation (10 Year)
A clean, citrus-forward 10-year Indiana bourbon with candied spice notes and approachable drinkability.
Fourgate Batch 21 – Port Perry Perry (8 Year Rye)
A distinctive 8-year Indiana rye finished in Australian tawny port with bold candied spice, black pepper kick, and an impressive extended finish.
Fourgate Batch 23 – Barossa Creek (BRye)
A complex bourbon-rye blend finished in tawny port with exceptional layering of caramel, chocolate, and spice that evolves with each sip.
Fourgate Batch 24 – Bourbon Down Under
A high-rye, full-proof bourbon finished in Australian parish casks with sophisticated dark chocolate, floral complexity, and a distinctive savory finish.
Fourgate Indiana Foundation 14 Year (Bonus)
An exceptionally rare 14-year, 144-proof Indiana bourbon with remarkable cherry complexity and an ethereal high-proof character that showcases mature barrel influence.
Leapers Fork Distillery Single Barrel Cask Strength Bourbon (5 Years 3 Months, 110 Proof)
An exceptional weeded bourbon with a unique spicy profile, rich sweetness, and impressive depth that competes with premium pedigree brands.
Old Smoky James Ownby Reserve Tennessee Straight Bourbon Whiskey
An easy-drinking, sessionable Tennessee straight bourbon whiskey with balanced oak, spice, and sweet notes that punches above its proof.
Doc Swinson's Alter Ego Triple Cask Straight Bourbon Whiskey
A beautifully crafted finished bourbon with excellent balance between the rich bourbon base and elegant sherry/cognac influences, delivering a memorable dessert-like sipper with complexity and restraint.
Doc Swinson's Alter Ego Solera Method Rye Whiskey Finished in Rum Casks
An elegant and complex rye finished in rum casks using the solera method that delivers unexpected dessert-like qualities while remaining approachable, with evolving spiced fruit and cocoa notes that make it an after-dinner favorite.
Old Fitzgerald Bottled-in-Bond 9 Year (Spring 2020 Release)
An epic weeded bourbon offering from a twice-yearly release that delivers consistent quality and complexity.
Old Forester Birthday Bourbon 2021 Release
A very complex and bold bourbon with sweet and strong character that rewards extended sipping and discussion.
Blanton's Straight from the Barrel 2019 Release
A robust single-barrel expression with bold flavor profile and cask-strength delivery that stands out as a unicorn in the U.S. market.
Black Manhattan (Ezra Brooks 99 / Fernet Amaro)
A sophisticated and well-balanced cocktail that elevates the bourbon with complementary bitter and herbal elements, delivering an elegant after-dinner sipper.
Smoked Chili Old Fashioned (Wilderness Trail Rye / Hella Bitters Smoked Chili / Seldom Seen Farms Bourbon Barrel-Aged Maple Syrup)
A bold and creative old fashioned that successfully melds spice, smoke, and maple sweetness into a memorable, well-constructed cocktail perfect for warm weather sipping.
Maker's Mark Wood Finishing Series FAE-O2 (2021 Limited Release)
A beautifully balanced wood-finished bourbon that showcases exceptional texture and subtle spice integration, earning recognition as Bourbon of the Year with its harmonious combination of mouthfeel and flavor.
George Dickel 8 Year Old Bourbon Whiskey
A light-bodied eight-year bourbon that feels more like a five-year whiskey with sharp edges, lacking the sweetness and oak integration expected at its stated age and price point.
Jack Daniel's Triple Mash Bonded
Jack Daniel's stepped out of the box with this exciting blend of three distinct mash bills, delivering a fruity, spicy whiskey with cherry cola and cinnamon notes that exceeds expectations and warrants adding to your bar.
Russell's Reserve 10 Year Bourbon
A beautiful expression that showcases Eddie Russell's softer, fruit-forward style with a complex blend of younger and older whiskeys.
Wild Turkey Master's Keep One
A remarkable whiskey that successfully blends Jimmy and Eddie Russell's distinct styles with secondary barrel aging, resulting in a complex and approachable pour.
Wild Turkey Diamond Anniversary
A delicious vintage release celebrating Jimmy Russell's 60th anniversary that showcases the character of well-aged whiskey with mature oak and subtle fruit notes.
Jack Daniel's Tennessee Whiskey Bonded
Jack Daniel's elevated their Tennessee whiskey line with a well-selected barrel offering that drinks beyond its age and is worthy of sipping neat rather than mixing.
Weller 12 Year
A well-preserved wheat bourbon that has held up admirably after two years on a bright shelf, delivering the expected quality of this highly sought-after expression.
Wild Turkey Decades
A masterpiece created by Eddie Russell using the finest barrels from Wild Turkey warehouses, this expression has endured four years of ambient light exposure without deterioration and remains a standout pour.
Treaty Oak Day Drinker Bourbon
An easy-drinking, light, and refreshing spring/summer sipper that delivers surprising quality and balance for its 12-month age and affordable price point.
Laws Whiskey House 8-Year Bottled-in-Bond Four Grain Straight Bourbon Whiskey (Batch 6S)
A beautifully aged, grain-forward four-grain bourbon that demonstrates the terroir and traditional methods of Laws Whiskey House, with a complexity that rewards extended sipping.
Laws Whiskey House 7-Year Bottled-in-Bond San Luis Valley Straight Rye Whiskey
A distinctively flavored rye whiskey showcasing the unique San Luis Valley grain with impressive maturity, balance, and a flavor profile that grows and deepens with continued tasting.
Basil Hayden Subtle Smoke
A smooth, uniquely crafted bourbon with subtle hickory smoke that delivers a campfire-like aroma without overwhelming the drinker, making it an excellent choice for those seeking something different that isn't overly bold.
Old Forester 1910 Old Fine Whiskey
A beautifully consistent bourbon with exceptional profile control that represents excellent value and quality, chosen as whiskey of the year three years prior.
Knob Creek 15 Year Single Barrel
An oaky, bold expression that delivers the deep color and complexity that would take 30+ years to achieve in Scotland, showcasing the advantages of bourbon's high corn content and Kentucky's climate.
Angel's Envy Single Barrel (Cox's Evergreen Store Pick)
A delicious port-barrel-finished bourbon with pronounced sweetness that would make an excellent base for a sophisticated cocktail.
Russell's Reserve 13 Year
A complex, multi-layered whiskey that rewards patient sipping with constantly evolving flavors and would benefit from extended tasting sessions to fully appreciate its depth.
Larceny Kentucky Straight Bourbon Barrel Proof A122
A complex, layered barrel-proof bourbon with dark rich honey notes and a long warming finish that rewards careful sipping and contemplation.
R6 Straight Bourbon Whiskey
A beautiful gateway bourbon with balanced corn sweetness and rye spice that delivers complex flavor development for its young age.
R6 Straight Rye Whiskey
A sophisticated rye whiskey with four-year maturation delivering cereal sweetness, citrus brightness, and well-balanced spice that works beautifully neat or as a sipper.
Jim Beam Pre-Prohibition Style Rye
A solid value rye better suited for cocktails than sipping neat, with good spice and dryness that pairs well with flavor-forward foods.
E.J. Curley Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey (Small Batch)
A well-crafted, easy-drinking small batch with balanced sweetness and oak spice that drinks approachably at 95 proof and should be on the shelf at craft bourbon enthusiasts' homes.
Woodford Reserve Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
A benchmark bourbon that exemplifies balance and defines the Kentucky bourbon profile with traditional flavors and complexity.
Woodford Reserve Kentucky Straight Wheat Whiskey
An approachable, fruit-forward wheated whiskey with floral sweetness and elegant balance, ideal for those new to whiskey exploration.
Woodford Reserve Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey
A distinctive pre-Prohibition style rye whiskey with buttery creaminess and moderate spice, recognized as the best-selling rye from Kentucky.
Woodford Reserve Very Fine Rare Bourbon
A premium bourbon blend incorporating significantly aged barrels that deliver depth and refinement for the discerning palate.
Lincoln Pinch Single Barrel Barrel Proof Bourbon (Barrel #50)
An exceptionally impressive craft bourbon that delivers buttery creaminess alongside complex spice, with a long luxurious finish that belies its young age.
Yellowstone Select Bourbon
A well-balanced, historically significant bourbon with high corn content delivering classic caramel and vanilla notes that work equally well neat or in cocktails.
Minor Case Straight Rye Whiskey (Sherry Cask Finish)
An introductory rye with approachable spice and fruit complexity from sherry cask finishing, designed to bridge bourbon drinkers into rye while excelling in Manhattans.
Yellowstone Select Single Barrel — 109 Proof
A robust single barrel with pronounced spice and sweetness, dangerous pocket whiskey with excellent texture and mouthfeel at this proof point.
Yellowstone Select Single Barrel — 115 Proof
A surprisingly smooth higher-proof single barrel with distinctive cereal-forward flavor profile and more complexity than its 109-proof sibling, demonstrating how proof influences bourbon character.
R6 Distillery American Single Malt Whiskey
A well-crafted American single malt with inviting chocolate and coffee notes that drinks smoothly and would disappear quickly from the bottle.
Michter's Small Batch Kentucky Straight Bourbon
A classic, smooth bourbon that exemplifies Michter's quality philosophy and represents the equivalent of just 20 barrels per batch.
Michter's Single Barrel Kentucky Straight Rye
An exceptionally approachable rye that bridges the gap between high-rye whiskeys and bourbon drinkers with its beautiful floral and spicy characteristics.
Michter's Limited Release Barrel Strength Kentucky Straight Bourbon
A rich, decadent barrel-strength bourbon that maintains smoothness and balance while delivering impressive depth and dark mahogany complexity.
Michter's Limited Release Barrel Strength Kentucky Straight Rye
A spectacular barrel-strength rye that combines viscous richness with classic rye aromatics and a prominent, well-integrated barrel character.
Blanton's Original Single Barrel Bourbon
A well-crafted single barrel from Warehouse H with approachable caramel sweetness and classic baking spice complexity.
Rebel Distiller's Collection 8 Year Wheated Bourbon
An excellent wheated bourbon that delivers rich creaminess, bold cherry notes, and complex baking spice at an impressive 113 proof.
Five Trail Blended American Whiskey Batch 01
A seamless, well-balanced blended American whiskey that successfully marries four distinct components into a smooth, approachable expression perfect for neat sipping or with ice.
Hard Truth Indiana Straight Rye Whiskey (100 Proof, 4 Years)
A very sweet, approachable Indiana rye with dessert-like qualities and a pleasant summer-sipper profile that works well as a crafted local expression.
Castle & Key Straight Kentucky Bourbon Batch 1
A unique bourbon with an unusual high malted barley profile that delivers a distinctive experience with sweet-tart characteristics and spiced finish that steps outside the typical bourbon box.
Castle & Key Restoration Bourbon Batch 2 @ 00:01:57
A beautifully layered and nuanced bourbon with impressive creaminess and spice that drinks considerably bolder than its proof suggests.
Castle & Key Restoration Rye Single Barrel (~119 proof, early serial number) @ 00:22:27
A candy-forward rye with excellent balance between earthy minerality on the nose and bright, sweet fruit on the palate.
Castle & Key Restoration Rye Single Barrel (Serial #1216, 121.1 proof) @ 00:48:51
A robust, spice-driven rye with excellent baking spice integration and stone fruit complexity that rewards patient sipping.
Castle & Key Restoration Wheat Bourbon Single Barrel (Unreleased Preview) @ 01:03:36
An exceptionally smooth and balanced wheated bourbon with soft, bread-forward character that showcases white wheat's subtle complexity.
Russell's Reserve 10 Year Small Batch Bourbon @ 00:03:57
A beautifully crafted small batch bourbon from Wild Turkey's master distillers with excellent value, rich oak character, and a long satisfying finish that appeals to both experienced and newer bourbon drinkers.
Blackland Distillery Bourbon 83 Proof
A soft, approachable entry bourbon with sweet honey notes and no aggressive alcohol burn, suitable for newcomers and everyday sipping.
Blackland Distillery Bourbon 100 Proof
A well-crafted higher-proof bourbon with enhanced sweetness and cantaloupe notes, ideal for cocktails and those seeking more body without excess heat.
Blackland Distillery Rye 83 Proof
A soft, sophisticated rye with an appealing dry finish and wine-like character that appeals to both whiskey drinkers and wine enthusiasts.
Blackland Distillery Texas Pecan Brown Sugar Bourbon
An elevated sugar whiskey with authentic pecan and brown sugar character that excels as an after-dinner sipper and culinary ingredient without the artificial cinnamon flavors of mass-market alternatives.
Milam & Green Single Barrel
A well-crafted, fruit-forward single barrel bourbon with a pleasant nectarine-driven profile and balanced sweetness.
Milam & Green Triple Cask
A beautifully balanced blend combining youthful pop with mature vanilla and oak, anchored by an unexpected agave-honey sweetness from malted rye.
Milam & Green Port Cask Rye
An award-winning port-finished rye that transcends typical rye expectations with sophisticated sweet tea and chocolate notes, elevated by tawny port finishing.
Blackland Rye Whiskey (100 Proof)
A well-crafted rye whiskey with inviting aromatics, smooth palate, and excellent value at the $35 price point.
Garrison Brothers Texas Straight Bourbon Whiskey Small Batch (Batch 2022-4)
A well-balanced, sweet wheated bourbon with rich corn character and approachable spice that exemplifies quality craft distilling.
Garrison Brothers Guadalupe
A beautifully balanced port-finished bourbon where the second barrel highlights natural fruit and spice characteristics without introducing unwanted earthiness.
Garrison Brothers Cowboy Bourbon 2021 Vintage
An exceptional high-proof expression where concentrated barrel flavors deliver remarkable complexity and sweetness that masks the 131 proof with remarkable harmony.
Old Overholt 114 Proof Rye Whiskey
A solid, high-proof Kentucky rye with a respectable pedigree that balances creamy sweetness with drying spice, ideal for cocktails and reasonably priced for the proof point.
Fighting 69th Irish Whiskey
An approachable and easy-drinking Irish whiskey that serves as an excellent gateway expression for newcomers to whiskey while remaining interesting enough for seasoned drinkers, with a worthwhile charitable component supporting military history preservation.
Still Austin The Naturalist Gin
A well-crafted gin that whiskey lovers will appreciate, built on a Texas-grown Elbon rye base with citrus and spice botanicals that complement rather than overshadow the spirit.
Still Austin The Musician Texas Straight Bourbon Whiskey
A beautifully crafted straight bourbon with finesse and balance, showcasing how slow water reduction and Texas grain terroir create a soft, approachable sipper.
Still Austin The Musician Cask Strength Texas Straight Bourbon Whiskey
A bolder expression that lets the Texas terroir and spice profile shine through with more intensity, delivering memorable baking spice and brown butter character at a competitive price point.
Still Austin Distillery Reserve Series 100% Elbon Rye Cognac Cask Finish
An innovative 100% rye expression showcasing the Elbon variety through a cognac cask lens, creating a unique and sophisticated sipper with brandy-like qualities and peppery spice.
The Gospel Straight Rye Whiskey
A beautifully crafted Australian rye whiskey with distinctive gumdrop spice, excellent mouthfeel, and impressive legs that stands out as a unique addition to any collection.
Loggerhead Bourbon Whiskey
A young, approachable blended bourbon with pleasant sweetness that shows promise but lacks depth and finish complexity typical of more established expressions.
Treaty Oak Day Drinker Bourbon
A dangerously smooth and approachable bourbon with honey and floral characteristics that makes it perfect for day drinking.
Treaty Oak Ghost Hill Bourbon
A rich and complex bourbon with s'more-like characteristics that deliver impressive depth for a two-year Texas bourbon.
Waterloo Antique Gin (Barrel-Aged)
A revelatory barrel-aged gin that bridges whiskey and traditional gin with blood orange brightness and sophisticated oak integration.
Wheel Horse Bourbon 101 Proof
A creamy, well-crafted three-year-old bourbon with surprising depth and sweetness that justifies its recognition among top whiskeys worldwide.
Yellow Banks Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
A well-crafted, affordable wheater with charming kettle corn and butterscotch notes that delivers solid everyday drinking value.
Green River Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey 5 Year
A solid, traditional five-year-old bourbon with prominent rye spice and layered complexity that offers exceptional value at the mid-thirties price point.
Green River Distilling Rye Whiskey 4 Year (Unreleased)
An impressive full-on rye whiskey with a buttery mouthfeel and delightful spiced gumdrops and mint character that shows real promise as a future shelf standard.
Kentucky Ten Wheated Bourbon (Unreleased)
A young wheated bourbon with pleasant honeysuckle florals and cracker jack sweetness that shows good potential for future aged expressions despite its relative youth.
Dry Fly Triticale Whiskey
A unique and well-balanced whiskey that strikes an excellent middle ground between wheat and rye characteristics with fruit-forward complexity and accessible flavor.
Dry Fly Port Finish Straight Wheat Whiskey
A beautifully soft and approachable wheat whiskey finished in port barrels that adds complexity and elegance, making it an excellent gateway expression for wine drinkers exploring whiskey.
Dry Fly Bourbon 101
A well-crafted blended bourbon at 101 proof that drinks softer than its proof suggests, offering creamy sweetness balanced with subtle spice and excellent proof-to-flavor ratio.
Dry Fly Cask Strength Straight Wheat Whiskey
An exceptional cask strength expression that showcases the full potential of wheat whiskey with vibrant fruity and floral aromatics, smooth palate delivery, and outstanding value at $50.
E.H. Taylor Small Batch Bourbon (Bottled in Bond, 100 Proof)
A solid, sought-after bottled-in-bond expression that represents quality within Buffalo Trace's core offering.
Eagle Rare 10 Year Bourbon (90 Proof)
A readily available, fairly priced 10-year bourbon that offers good value and is commonly found on shelves.
Elmer T. Lee Single Barrel Bourbon
A tough-to-find single barrel expression named after bourbon legend Elmer T. Lee that represents quality in the Age International mash bill.
Ancient Age 80 Proof Bourbon
A budget-friendly, accessible bourbon that offers solid value and is preferred over its 90-proof sibling by the hosts.
Weller Antique 107 Bourbon (107 Proof)
A higher-proof wheated bourbon with true spice and complexity that lives up to its reputation as a quality sipper.
Weller Full Proof Bourbon — Kraken Store Pick
A well-regarded store pick that proved itself as a solid selection from a tasting event.
Colonel E.H. Taylor Straight Rye (Bottled in Bond, 100 Proof)
A difficult-to-find bottled-in-bond rye that represents solid quality in Buffalo Trace's rye offerings.
Sazerac Rye (90 Proof)
A high-rye whiskey best suited for cocktails rather than neat sipping, with intense proof characteristics that shine in mixed drinks.
Fiddler Georgia Heartwood Single Barrel Cask Strength Bourbon
An exceptional triple-oak bourbon with soft entry and bold spiced finish that showcases the elegance of custom-charred heartwood finishing.
Resurgence Rye Malt Whiskey Double Copper Pot Still
A sophisticated rye malt whiskey with a honey-forward nose that opens with chocolate and anise on a soft, balanced palate—an excellent gateway for rye skeptics.
Redemption Rye
A soft yet spicy rye that drinks above its proof with excellent balance of sweet and pepper for the price.
Old Forester Rye 100 Proof
A well-crafted well-whiskey with good spice and subtle cocoa that serves as a solid everyday rye.
Rittenhouse Rye Bottled in Bond
A Kentucky rye with distinctive earthiness and corn sweetness that stands apart from other affordable options with its unique high-malt profile.
Old Overholt Bottled in Bond
A historic Pennsylvania rye with distinctive horehound and medicinal notes that holds up well in cocktails and sipping.
Rebel Cask Strength Single Barrel (Cox's Evergreen Pick)
A powerful, aggressive cask-strength wheated bourbon with rich cherry and tobacco notes that demands respect and rewards patient sipping.
Duke Spirits Double Barrel Founders Reserve Rye Whiskey
A well-aged, easy-drinking rye with excellent creaminess and approachable flavor profile that's more butterscotch than rye-forward, making it suitable for pre-dinner sipping.
Blue Note Crossroads Bourbon
A well-balanced, toasted French oak-finished bourbon that delivers pleasant sweetness and oak complexity at an attractive price point.
Smoke Wagon Small Batch Straight Bourbon Whiskey
A complex and impressive 100-proof bourbon with beautiful bottle presentation, sophisticated dark fruit and spice profile, and excellent viscosity that delivers outstanding value at the price point.
Knob Creek 12 Year 100 Proof
A well-aged bourbon at the magical intersection of oak and bourbon balance, hitting the sweet spot in the Knob Creek aging range.
Booker's 2020-03 Pigskin Batch
A grown woman whiskey with pronounced chocolate character that pairs beautifully with rich desserts, delivering a memorable and complex experience.
Few Spirits Bottled in Bond Straight Bourbon Whiskey
A beautifully crafted bottled-in-bond bourbon with perfectly balanced spice, cherry, and cinnamon notes that deliver a consistent and memorable experience from nose to finish.
New Riff Red Turkey Wheat Bottled in Bond
An approachable, sweet wheated bourbon with zesty brightness and soft spice that makes for an easy daily drinker.
Maker's Mark DNA Series 125 Entry Proof
A high-proof experimental wheated bourbon with maple syrup sweetness balanced by aggressive baking spices and heat that demands attention.
Peerless Double Oaked Bourbon
A well-crafted double-oak bourbon with rich chocolate and wood characteristics that opens up nicely, though the heavy oak influence and $80 price point for a four-year base age will polarize drinkers depending on their preference for sweeter, oaky profiles versus traditional bourbon character.
Old Granddad Bottled in Bond 100 Proof
Old Granddad Bottled in Bond brings assertive spice and good proof presence to a breakfast mimosa, standing out without drowning the citrus and ginger.
Wild Turkey 101 Rye
Wild Turkey 101 Rye performs admirably in a rich coffee cocktail, providing necessary proof and spice, though the heavy dark roast and cream push it into the background.
Leapers Fork Rye Whiskey
An exceptionally drinkable craft rye whiskey that earned multiple bottle kills and showcases Leapers Fork's signature distillery character.
Maker's Mark FAE-02 Wood Finishing Series 2021
A velvety, complex bourbon with exceptional texture, significant spice, and a genuinely long finish that rivals any whiskey in its price range.
Key West Trading Company Smuggler's Choice Bourbon Whiskey
A smooth, sweet everyday sipper that drinks older than its stated age—easy to sip on the patio but ultimately underwhelming and unremarkable.
Westward American Single Malt Whiskey
A delicate and well-balanced American single malt offering elegant stone fruit and spice notes that bridge the gap between bourbon and Scotch without overwhelming smokiness.
Louisville Legends Bourbon – Green Label (Legend)
A spicy, proof-forward bourbon with a unique dry profile that works well in cocktails but may benefit from a slightly lower proof point for neat sipping.
Michter's Limited Release Toasted Barrel Finish Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
A pleasant and well-crafted limited-release bourbon with sweet toasted barrel character, though the proof leaves the palate feeling slightly light.
Jack Daniel's Single Barrel Barrel Proof Tennessee Whiskey
A robust and well-crafted single barrel offering impressive complexity and balance at barrel proof, delivering smooth power with underlying sweetness.
Luca Mariano Single Barrel Bourbon (103 Proof, 6+ Years)
A layered, fruit-forward bourbon with elegant spice and creamy mouthfeel that explores beautifully through multiple sips, worth the price for a quality six-year-old pour.
All the Cookies Bourbon – Old Dominic Distillery R&D
A dessert-forward bourbon with oatmeal cookie and baking spice notes that makes you hungry.
Fourgate Bluegrass Trilogy 2
A fantastic release that has made the host obsessed with Fourgate's trilogy releases.
Cypress Still Young Peated Bourbon (CYPB)
A peated bourbon that represents one of the bottles people will be hunting this season.
Castle & Key 2021 Restoration Rye
A quality rye expression from Castle & Key's weekly single barrel release program.
Old Fitzgerald Bottled in Bond 9 Year
A fine wheated bourbon with soft character upfront followed by a pleasant spice on the finish.
George T. Stagg (2017/2018 vintage)
A high-proof bourbon that some find challenging and fiery, lacking the appeal of other BTAC releases.
Rockhill Farms Single Barrel Bourbon
A highly sought-after bourbon that represents one of Drew's favorite expressions to hunt.
Penelope Rose Cask Finish Bourbon
A four grain bourbon finished in rosé wine cask with a beautiful and sticky-sweet nose, a generous birthday gift that arrived in an attractive bottle.
Penelope Barrel Strength Toasted – Black Label
A dessert-forward barrel strength bourbon that tastes like s'mores with crispy marshmallow, chocolate, and graham cracker elements.
Iron Root Harbinger
A craft bourbon expression that serves as an evening pour.
Elijah Craig Barrel Proof Batch A119
A barrel proof bourbon offering excellent value at retail prices, particularly abundant in Louisiana stores at reasonable prices compared to Louisville retail.
Stagg Jr. Batch 16
A powerful, full-bodied whiskey that drinks smoother than its 130.9 proof suggests, with rich chocolate and oak flavors best enjoyed by experienced bourbon drinkers in a relaxed setting.
Wild Turkey 101 Rye
A dessert-like rye whiskey with impressive sweetness and body for the price, perfect for Thanksgiving applications.
Wild Turkey 101 Bourbon
A reliable daily drinker offering excellent value with classic Wild Turkey toffee and honey character.
Wild Turkey 101 Bourbon 1977 8-Year Vintage
A vintage pour that delivers soft, approachable character with interesting age-derived complexity and waxy texture.
Burnt Church Distillery Johnny Fever Four Grain Straight Bourbon Whiskey
A well-crafted craft bourbon with impressive depth, rich sweetness, and expert aging that drinks well at 100 proof despite the premium price point.
Hewling Station Wheat Whiskey (Gray Label)
A light, nostalgic wheat whiskey with floral and hay notes that serves as an excellent gateway to the whiskey category for newcomers.
Hewling Station Blend of Straight Whiskeys (Blue Label)
A well-balanced 50/50 blend that successfully marries the spice of high rye bourbon with the softness of wheat whiskey, making it excellent for both sipping and cocktails.
Jeptha Creed Bottled in Bond High Rye Bourbon
A well-crafted craft bourbon that steps outside the box with malted rye and Bloody Butcher corn, offering an interesting and earthy character that rewards an open mind.
Wiggle Whiskey Pennsylvania Straight Bourbon
A bright, terroir-driven expression with approachable sweetness and citrus character that reflects Pennsylvania's agricultural heritage.
Wiggle Whiskey Single Barrel Straight Bourbon (100 Proof, 5 Years 8 Months)
A more structured single-barrel expression with pronounced oak and citrus that showcases the complexity gained from extended aging.
Wiggle Whiskey Port Rye (Pork Cask Finished Straight Rye)
A gateway whiskey that bridges bourbon and wine lovers with its rich, creamy texture and balanced sweetness that opens whiskey to new drinkers.
Wiggle Whiskey American Rye Kilted Cask
A distinctive gateway to peaty scotches with toasted almond nuttiness and honeyed citrus that bridges American rye and Islay's smoky character.
Elijah Craig Barrel Proof C921
A well-crafted 12-year-old bourbon with rich baking spice character and a long, warming finish that makes it an excellent choice for winter sipping at a fair retail price.
Jack Daniel's Old No. 7 Tennessee Whiskey
A smooth, accessible everyday whiskey that excels in cocktails and highballs but lacks complexity when sipped neat—exactly what it's designed to be.
Maker's Mark Cask Strength
A perfectly balanced, soft and rich wheated bourbon with beautiful floral and spice characteristics that exemplifies the founding vision without any harsh bitterness.
Maker's Mark 46 Cask Strength
A bigger, bolder wheated bourbon that enhances the founding Maker's Mark profile with elevated spice and viscosity while maintaining the signature lack of bitterness.
Cedric's Reserve
A promising nose with beautiful aromatics that unfortunately does not translate to the palate, resulting in a disjointed and abbreviated tasting experience.
The Fat Cat
A light, floral bourbon with an unexpectedly creamy and buttery palate that delivers a long, satisfying finish with herbal complexity.
Roadie Reserve
A spice-forward blend that leans tannic and oak-heavy, lacking the smoothness and balance needed to fully satisfy.
Buffalo Vegas
A soft and buttery bourbon with an unexpected herbal-spice character that delivers warmth, though the assertive finish heat may not suit all palates.
Questionable Intentions
A coherent and balanced blend with a pleasant buttery character throughout, though the finish lacks depth and lingering warmth.
Firehouse Reserve
A strikingly aromatic and dark bourbon with a spicy, silky palate that falls short of matching the richness and depth promised by its nose.
Wheater's Breakfast of Champions
A beautifully balanced wheater-heavy blend that delivers consistent floral and buttery characteristics throughout with a long, warming finish.
Dust in the Blend
A beautifully balanced blend where the nose, palate, and finish work together harmoniously with sophisticated herbal and fruity layers.
Nips
A unique and spice-forward wheated blend that transforms on the palate and impresses with a long, memorable finish with distinctive butter-mint character.
The Kings
An exceptionally well-balanced and complex wheater-dominated blend with elegant layering, sophisticated spice integration, and a long, memorable finish.
Old Elk Blended Straight Bourbon Whiskey (88 Proof)
A smooth, easy-drinking flagship bourbon with prominent vanilla and honey notes that showcases the high barley content beautifully.
Old Elk Straight Wheat Whiskey (100 Proof)
A unique and flavorful wheat whiskey with pineapple, cherry, and fig notes that drinks more boldly than its proof suggests.
Old Elk Straight Rye Whiskey (100 Proof)
An exceptionally sweet and candy-forward rye with peach and cinnamon notes that defies expectations for the rye category.
Old Elk Weeted Bourbon Single Barrel — Nashville Bourbon Social Club Barrel 505 (116.2 Proof)
An exceptional single barrel with exceptional depth, creaminess, and complex layering that showcases the high wheat content beautifully at cask strength.
Cleveland Whiskey Company Wheat Penny Bourbon Whiskey
A well-crafted wheat bourbon with innovative black cherry wood finishing that masks its youth effectively but falls slightly short in delivering the forward-facing sweetness expected from the wheat mashbill.
Leiper's Fork Straight Rye Whiskey
A beautiful Southern-style rye whiskey that perfectly balances rye spice with barrel spice and candied sweetness, executed with genuine craft and well worth seeking out.
Walker's Kay Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey (Sherry Cask Staves, 90 Proof)
A solid, light, and refreshing younger bourbon best enjoyed straight or over ice as a pre-dinner pour or seaside sipper rather than as an after-dinner or cocktail whiskey.
Leapers Fork Bottled in Bond Tennessee Bourbon Whiskey
A unique wheated bourbon with elevated malted barley content that delivers creamy butterscotch and distinctive spice notes, worth seeking out for its differentiation from standard bourbon profiles.
Leapers Fork Single Barrel Tennessee Whiskey Barrel #38 (Red Dog Wine & Spirits Select)
A robust single barrel selection with exceptional richness and complexity from the higher proof and rye content, delivering caramel-driven sweetness and velvety texture.
Leapers Fork Straight Rye Whiskey with Eli Mason Old Fashioned Cocktail Mixer
A well-executed old fashioned that demonstrates the Eli Mason mixer's effectiveness at creating a balanced, approachable cocktail with the spicy character of Leapers Fork rye.
2021 Old Forester Birthday Bourbon (21st Edition)
An exceptional and well-balanced birthday bourbon release with rich caramel, leather, and oak that showcases masterful blending by Jackie Ames.
Woodford Reserve Chocolate Malt Whisper
A surprisingly drinkable result of a barrel contamination accident that delivers delicate chocolate notes and creamy cereal milk character at an accessible price point.
1977 Wild Turkey 8/101
A beautifully aged vintage Wild Turkey that drinks lighter and softer than its proof suggests, showcasing the brand's consistency and versatility over decades.
Maker's Mark Wood Finishing Series 2021 Limited Release FAE-02
An exceptional expression with exceptional craft in the finishing process, featuring a beautiful balance of floral aromatics and a distinctly velvety mouthfeel that justifies the fairy dust designation.
Horse Soldier Straight Bourbon Whiskey (87 Proof)
A well-balanced higher rye bourbon with soft sweetness and spice, ideal for mixed cocktails with a pleasant, even delivery.
Horse Soldier Barrel Strength Bourbon Whiskey (115 Proof)
An exceptional wheated bourbon with a distinctive spice profile, soft opening, and remarkable complexity that stands among the finest in its category.
Benchmark Old No. 8 (Entry Level)
A juvenile, unbalanced bourbon best suited for mixing or hot toddies rather than sipping neat.
Benchmark Top Floor
A light and refreshing bourbon with modest fruitiness that leans slightly toward sipping but remains understated overall.
Benchmark Small Batch
An honest bourbon with a better nose than palate delivery, lacking sufficient body for its proof but offering pleasant caramel and honey notes.
Benchmark Single Barrel
A notably richer bourbon with good structure and a developing finish that shows promise, though still somewhat dry and spice-forward.
Benchmark Bonded
A solid, well-crafted bonded whiskey at an excellent price point with palm fruit richness and a distinctive character.
Benchmark Full Proof (Foolproof)
An exceptional full-proof bourbon that delivers sweetness and complexity throughout, offering remarkable value at under $22 with a sophisticated finish.
2021 Four Roses Limited Edition Small Batch
An exceptional limited-edition bourbon that reveals new layers with each sip, featuring impeccable balance and one of the longest, most memorable finishes on record.
Cody Road Straight Bourbon Whiskey
A decent young wheated bourbon with appealing corn-forward sweetness that shows promise with additional age, though currently lacking the maturity and oak integration for a higher tier.
Little Book Chapter 1 'The Easy'
A bold, spicy blended whiskey that challenges bourbon conventions with its youthful exuberance and unique grain-forward profile, delivering impressive complexity despite its unconventional approach.
Little Book Chapter 5 'The Invitation'
A refined and well-balanced blend that combines age and youth effectively, delivering buttery caramel sweetness with well-integrated spice for an accessible yet complex pour.
Basil Hayden Toast Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
A well-executed rebranding with a new rice-based mash bill that delivers approachable sweetness and smoothness, ideal for summer sipping and pairing with food.
Bulleit Bourbon Frontier Whiskey @ 00:03:09
A solid, well-made everyday bourbon with high rye spice and leather notes that works excellently in cocktails at an accessible price point.
Four Roses Bourbon (Yellow Label)
A refreshing, approachable bourbon with impressive complexity from its all-recipe blend, perfect for the season.
Four Roses Small Batch
A beautifully balanced expression with rich dark fruit and caramel that showcases the appeal of Four Roses' recipe blending.
Four Roses Single Barrel
A delicious, fruit-driven single barrel with excellent balance and surprising smoothness that drinks lighter than its proof.
Four Roses Small Batch Select
A sophisticated non-chill filtered expression with velvety texture and layered spice that belies its respectable proof.
Four Roses 2021 Limited Edition Small Batch
An exceptional barrel-strength limited release with profound layered complexity, mouth-coating richness, and sophisticated floral and fruit character.
Frankfort Bourbon Society Single Barrel Pick – Buffalo Trace (Mash Bill #1)
A beautifully balanced flagship bourbon that sells out quickly among society members due to its smooth, accessible character and quality execution.
Frankfort Bourbon Society Single Barrel Pick – Russell's Reserve 10 Year
A well-crafted 10-year Russell's Reserve with bold spice, substantial oak character, and a satisfying warming finish that appeals to those who enjoy depth and complexity.
McMenamins Billy Wheat Whiskey
A solid local wheat whiskey that serves as an excellent summer sipper with pleasant sweetness and character, though the lower proof leaves it a bit watery.
Westward New Make (White Dog), 90 proof
A pleasant, drinkable new make that showcases the clean fermentation character and fruit from ale yeast, with surprising floral and cereal complexity.
Westward American Single Malt (Original), 90 proof
An exceptionally approachable yet complex single malt that bridges Scotch and bourbon traditions, with impressive texture and a finish that demands another glass.
Westward Stout Cask Finish, 92 proof
A refined expression that uses stout cask maturation to add sophistication and dryness to the base whiskey, delivering toffee and toasted marshmallow complexity.
Westward Pinot Noir Cask Finish
A sophisticated wine-finished expression featuring Willamette Valley Pinot Noir barrels that impart elegant dried fruit and honey notes with a lively, sweet conclusion.
Westward American Single Malt Cask Strength, 125 proof
A powerful cask strength pour that maintains impressive drinkability at 125 proof while delivering full barrel character and nuanced complexity.
Westward Tempranillo Cask Finish
A delicate, dessert-like expression with red fruit character from Tempranillo barrels, delivering sweetness and light smokiness without any heat.
Westward American Two Malts Whiskey
A beautifully intricate wheat-forward single malt showcasing floral and stone fruit complexity with notable honey and candy notes throughout.
Brindle Small Batch Bourbon by Prospect Spirits Group
A clean, straightforward bourbon with solid everyday drinkability that won't disappoint any bourbon drinker, though it won't wow anyone either.
Broken Barrel California Oak Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
A well-balanced, approachable bourbon with wine-influenced character that drinks like an aperitif whiskey.
Broken Barrel Small Batch Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey (Yellow Label)
A more complex sipper than its lower-proof sibling, with pronounced stone fruit and a warming white pepper spice that showcases the influence of French oak finishing.
Broken Barrel Heresy Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey
A standout, year-round rye whiskey with candy and forest aromatics that punches well above its price point for the proof and quality.
Broken Barrel Cask Strength Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey (Black Label)
An impressive, velvet-smooth barrel-proof bourbon that delivers exceptional complexity and sweetness without tasting hot, representing excellent value at its price point.
Off Hours Bourbon (95 Proof, 4 Year)
An easy-drinking, no-nonsense bourbon that serves well as both a sipper and cocktail whiskey, with a pleasant balance of sweet honey and rye spice that doesn't demand deep thinking.
J.W. Dant Bottled in Bond
A solid, everyday pour that punches well above its price and deserves more shelf attention than it typically receives.
Early Times Bottled in Bond
A richer, more substantial bottled-in-bond whiskey with chocolate and wood-driven character that works equally well neat or in a mixed drink.
Union Horse Distilling Company Reunion Straight Rye Whiskey "Chicago Sting" Single Barrel (Batch SB, Bottle #122)
A complex, barrel-proof rye with beautiful layering of butterscotch, spice, and floral notes that rewards careful sipping and contemplation.
Eagle Rare 10 Year Single Barrel Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
A reliable 10-year bourbon with excellent balance, consistent quality, and a memorable long finish at an exceptional price point.
Russell's Reserve 10 Year Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
A well-balanced, approachable 10-year bourbon with distinctive cherry and toffee notes that delivers excellent value and consistent quality.
Russell's Reserve 13 Year Old Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
An exceptionally well-blended 13-year-old bourbon with impressive complexity, sweetness, and balance that represents a compelling value at its price point.
Kirkland Signature Small Batch Barton 1792 Master Distiller's Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
A solid, reasonably well-balanced everyday bourbon with straightforward bourbon character that stands toe-to-toe with similar-priced competition, offering good value as a one-liter format house pour or mixer.
Three Cord Strange Collaboration Straight Kentucky Bourbon Finished in Pinot Noir Barrels
A balanced, multi-layered thinking whiskey with excellent complexity from the wine barrel finish, silky mouthfeel, and compelling fruit-forward character that works well for those who appreciate finished bourbons.
Legends 87 Bourbon
A smooth, approachable session bourbon with excellent value that drinks easy neat or in cocktails without stripping flavor.
Legends 100 Double Barrel Bourbon
A traditional, well-balanced flagship bourbon with mature oak character and spice that drinks slightly lighter than its 100 proof suggests.
Old Hoot Batch 5A
A well-balanced house blend that successfully marries chocolate, cherry, and cayenne pepper flavors into a cohesive, approachable 100-proof expression.
Big Chief's Blend
An exemplary wheated bourbon infinity bottle that demonstrates how careful curation of premium components yields exceptional complexity and refinement despite unknown exact provenance.
TX Blended Whiskey
An approachable, versatile summer sipper and gateway whiskey with prominent vanilla and sweet notes.
TX Texas Straight Bourbon Whiskey
A distinctive Texas bourbon showcasing the house yeast character with prominent spice and dark fruit notes.
TX Texas Straight Bourbon Whiskey – Sherry Finish
A beautifully balanced wheated bourbon finished in sherry that layers dark fruit and molasses while maintaining the core bourbon profile, best enjoyed by a winter fire.
TX Texas Straight Bourbon Whiskey – Barrel Proof
An exceptionally drinkable, high-proof wheated bourbon with remarkable complexity and depth that ranks among the finest wheated bourbons available.
Heaven Hill Old Style Bourbon 6 Year Green Label
An exceptional value bourbon at $12 that delivers full-bodied, well-balanced flavors with solid oak presence and spice, standing up admirably to far more expensive whiskeys.
Old Forester Rye 100 Proof
A solid, affordable everyday rye with more complexity on the nose than palate; excellent for mixing or casual sipping in warm weather.
Sam Houston 15 Year Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
A well-balanced 15-year-old expression with excellent depth of fruit character, restrained oak integration, and a satisfying coating finish.
Calumet Farm 15 Year Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
A complex and spice-driven 15-year-old expression with mature character, though the bitter back-end note limits its overall appeal compared to similarly-aged offerings.
Wild Turkey 101
A classic, approachable bourbon with a reliable profile of toffee and oak that delivers consistent quality at an exceptional value.
Weller Special Reserve
A beautiful wheated bourbon with floral and fruity notes that offers smooth, elegant sipping and represents a remarkable value in the wheated category.
David Nicholson 1843 Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
A wheated bourbon that defies expectations by delivering barrel-driven spice and oak character more akin to rye-forward bourbons, making it an excellent buy at $25 for those seeking complexity in the wheated category.
Country Smooth Small Batch American Straight Bourbon Whiskey
A well-balanced, smooth spring or summer sipper that works equally well neat or as a mixer, with an approachable profile suitable for both new and experienced bourbon drinkers.
Blood Oath Pact No. 7
An excellent, creamy wheated-style blend with a rich bread pudding character that seamlessly incorporates the sauternes finish into a sophisticated and memorable sipper.
Larceny Barrel Proof Batch A121
A butterscotch-forward wheated bourbon with good depth and viscosity that drinks rich and warming, though better suited as a fireside sipper than a summer pour.
Rebel Distillers Collection Single Barrel Wheated Bourbon @ 00:02:02
A complex, flavorful single barrel wheated bourbon with cherry and chocolate character, significant spice, and a long warming finish that delivers tremendous value at the price point.
Rabbit Hole Cavehill Kentucky Straight Bourbon
A four-grain triple malt bourbon that delivers distinctive honey and fruit character with a soft, accessible profile.
Rabbit Hole Heigold Kentucky Straight Bourbon
A high-rye double malt bourbon with a nuanced, creamy profile that balances sophistication with approachability.
Rabbit Hole Boxergrail Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey
A wood-fired toasted and charred rye with floral character and sweetness that distinguishes it from typical spicy rye profiles.
Rabbit Hole Bespoke Barrel-Finished Gin
A barrel-finished London Dry gin that softens traditional juniper character while maintaining classic botanical complexity, ideal for sipping or cocktails.
Rabbit Hole Derringer Kentucky Straight Bourbon Finished in PX Sherry Casks
A wheated bourbon finished in high-sugar Pedro Ximénez sherry that balances bourbon softness with rich fruit, chocolate, and nut character—a true charcuterie whiskey.
Rabbit Hole Founder's Collection Boxergrail 6-Year Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey Cask Strength
A six-year cask-strength rye that evolves into a syrupy, candy-forward expression while retaining the floral and citrus character of younger versions.
Rabbit Hole Founder's Collection Mizunara Cask Finish 15-Year Kentucky Straight Bourbon Cask Strength
A 15-year high-rye bourbon finished in virgin Japanese oak that delivers an indulgent, dessert-like profile with toasted marshmallow, chocolate, and candy sweetness.
Navigator Straight Bourbon Whiskey (Precision Wine Company)
A well-crafted wine-barrel-finished bourbon with elegant presentation that drinks exceptionally well for its three-year age and competes favorably with other premium finished bourbons on the market.
Copper Fox Dawson's Reserve Bourbon Whiskey
A high-malt weeded bourbon with distinctive peach and stone fruit character from peachwood-smoked Virginia barley, showing impressive transparency in its craft production and making it a worthwhile spring sipper for those who appreciate heavily malted whiskeys.
Ironclad Small Batch Four Grain Bourbon
A well-crafted flagship bourbon with beautiful salted caramel notes and excellent balance for a 16–19 month aged expression.
Ironclad Sweeter Creations Maple Syrup Cask Finish Bourbon
An exceptionally smooth dessert whiskey with subtle maple character and a remarkably long finish, perfect for sipping by the fire.
Ironclad Missouri Toasted Oak Cask Bourbon
A beautifully balanced bourbon with exceptional toasted marshmallow and fig character that showcases the impact of finishing in lightly toasted barrels.
Ironclad Bottled in Bond Bourbon
A well-aged, complex bourbon with lovely floral and caramel notes that demonstrates the value of patience and larger barrel aging.
Ironclad Vesselcraft Coffee Cask Finish Bourbon
An exceptional after-dinner sipper with remarkable coffee character that pairs beautifully with a cigar or as an alternative to traditional brandy.
Climax Moonshine
A clean, sweet unaged spirit with balanced grain character and a pleasant buttered almond finish.
Climax Fire No. 32 Cinnamon Moonshine
A smooth, cinnamon-forward spirit with nostalgic candy notes that works well as an after-dinner sipper or campfire drink.
Tim Smith's Southern Reserve Whiskey (Wood-Fired)
A complex rapid-aged whiskey that delivers the color and flavor complexity of a traditional multi-year aged spirit through innovative wood and process techniques.
Tim Smith's Southern Reserve Rye Whiskey
A remarkably smooth rye whiskey with exceptional complexity that rivals traditional three- to four-year aged expressions despite rapid-age production.
Tim Smith's Southern Reserve Bourbon
A refined wheated bourbon with distinctive honeysuckle and candy notes that delivers smoothness and complexity comparable to traditionally aged expressions.
Legends Spirits USA Weeted Bourbon Barrel Proof
An impressively executed craft wheated bourbon with syrupy sweetness, barrel spice complexity, and a beautiful balance of flavors that stands out as a very promising expression from a young distillery.
Monks Road Fifth District Cold Spring Distillery Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey (6 Year, High Rye, 100 Proof)
A well-balanced high-rye bourbon with classic family heritage that delivers smooth butterscotch and rye spice in a measured, approachable package.
Rattle and Snap 8 Year Limited Release Tennessee Whiskey
A gentle and refined Tennessee whiskey with soothing honey-tea and chamomile character that emphasizes mid-palate elegance over bold finishing power.
Monks Road Barrel Finished Gin
A juniper-forward barrel-finished gin that balances soft buttery qualities with warming spice and subtle citrus in a sophisticated, approachable expression.
Trader Joe's Kentucky Bourbon Whiskey
A respectable entry-level bourbon with classic bourbon character, best appreciated after it opens in the glass, and suitable for sipping or mixing.
Earl Settler Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
A skillfully distilled but underwhelming bourbon best suited for mixing, cooking, or introducing newcomers to whiskey rather than sipping neat.
Thomas S. Moore Port Cask Finish
A well-crafted port-finished bourbon from Barton that delivers complexity and length without sacrificing the underlying bourbon character, making it an excellent value alternative to premium finished expressions.
Jim Beam White Label
A solid, approachable entry-level Kentucky bourbon with good character for the proof, offering nutty oak and caramel sweetness without pretension.
Hillrock Double Cask Rye Whiskey
A beautifully crafted, well-balanced 100% rye whiskey with impressive depth from double-cask aging that pleases diverse palates and serves well as an introduction to rye, a gift, or an everyday sipper.
Old Forester 117 Series High Angel Share
A complex and richly flavored bourbon from low-yielding barrels with excellent depth that opens up further with water, offering layer after layer of developing notes.
Hochatown Small Batch Bourbon Whiskey
A respectable young Oklahoma craft bourbon with prominent corn characteristics and surprising smoothness for its age, suitable as an everyday sipper for craft enthusiasts.
Tawa Cairo Four Grain Bourbon Whiskey
An impressive Texas bourbon with beautiful dark color, balanced four-grain complexity, and exceptional smoothness that punches well above its age statement.
Basil Hayden 10 Year Old Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey
A light, approachable rye suitable for introducing new drinkers to the category, but the 10-year age fails to manifest and lacks the depth and complexity expected at this price point.
Traverse City Whiskey Co. Straight Bourbon Whiskey (4 Year, 86 Proof)
A versatile, approachable bourbon with buttery character and excellent balance between nose and palate that invites another sip.
Traverse City Whiskey Co. North Coast Rye (90 Proof)
A balanced, elegant rye that harmonizes peppery and buttery notes with a light, refreshing character suitable for year-round enjoyment.
Traverse City Whiskey Co. Barrel Proof Bourbon (5–6 Year, ~116–117 Proof)
An award-winning barrel proof expression with rich, pronounced flavors and exceptional creaminess that stands as a benchmark for the category.
Traverse City Whiskey Co. Barrel Proof Rye (5–6 Year, ~112–114 Proof)
A full-bodied, clean-sipping barrel proof rye with pronounced buttery character and exceptional versatility for neat or cocktail service.
Traverse City Whiskey Co. American Cherry Edition (70 Proof)
A well-balanced, whiskey-forward infused expression with genuine cherry character that serves as an excellent gateway to whiskey without sacrificing spirit integrity.
Eagle Rare 10 Year Single Barrel Store Pick
A fine, well-balanced 10-year bourbon that strikes an excellent sweet spot between oak and sweetness, making it an excellent grab whenever spotted on the shelf.
Weller 107 (Old Weller Antique)
A lovely wheated bourbon with elegant floral and fruit notes balanced by cinnamon spice, offering an approachable yet complex sipping experience.
Ironclad Distillery Four Grain Bourbon Missouri Toasted Oak Cask Finish
A well-crafted craft bourbon with interesting toasted oak influence and layered flavors that show promise, though some youthful notes suggest it may benefit from additional maturation.
Smooth Ambler Old Scout 107 Single Barrel (Jono's Liquors Pick)
A buttery, butterscotch-forward blended whiskey with impressive depth and heat that offers exceptional value at $45 for those seeking a bold, non-traditional American whiskey experience.
Kentucky Peerless Rye Whiskey Finished in Copper & Kings Absinthe Barrel
A special, magical after-dinner sipper that transforms rye whiskey into a dessert-like experience with dominant anise and licorice notes from the absinthe barrel finish.
Elijah Craig Toasted Barrel
A well-crafted toasted barrel finish that elevates the classic Elijah Craig profile with approachable sweetness and campfire complexity.
Ezra Brooks 99 Proof
A pleasant, middle-ground bourbon with creamy butterscotch and spice that appeals across different palate preferences at an excellent price point.
Kentucky Peerless Straight Bourbon Whiskey Single Barrel
A gentleman's whiskey with complex tobacco and vanilla notes that drinks surprisingly easy for barrel strength, offering a refined experience without harsh burn.
Kentucky Peerless Straight Rye Whiskey Single Barrel "Caribbean Cured Sugar Cane"
A bourbon drinker's rye with balanced spice and sophisticated floral notes that delivers Caribbean-inspired complexity without harsh burn, making it an exceptional sipping whiskey.
Woodford Reserve Masters Collection Series 13 – Oat Grain Bourbon
An experimental oat-based bourbon that diverges too far from traditional bourbon profile; interesting nose but disappointing palate execution at this price point.
Woodford Reserve Masters Collection Series 14 – Select American Oak
A well-crafted, traditionally-styled bourbon with solid balance that would benefit from higher proof but remains a quality everyday sipper.
Woodford Reserve Masters Collection Series 16 – Very Fine Rare Bourbon
A distinguished older bourbon that demonstrates excellent barrel maturation with sophisticated leather and cocoa notes and impressive balance despite modest proof.
Woodford Reserve Masters Collection Series 15 – Chocolate Malted Rye
A remarkable innovation using toasted grain technique to achieve authentic chocolate flavor within traditional bourbon regulations; a surprising and memorable pour that challenges expectations.
Woodford Reserve Batch Proof 2020 (123.6 Proof)
A textbook barrel-proof bourbon that achieves remarkable balance and complexity at elevated proof with thick viscosity, layered spice, and genuine depth.
Old Forester 150th Anniversary Batch 3
A deep, dark, rich bourbon with bold pepper spice, good complexity, and an impressive finish that justifies its anniversary release status.
Evan Williams Bottled in Bond 100 Proof
A nice sipping whiskey at a great price point that checks all the boxes for a solid everyday bourbon.
Evan Williams Master's Blend 90 Proof
A complex blend that offers depth and two distinct experiences—neat and with water—making it a versatile and uniquely flavorful pour.
Evan Williams 12 Year Old Red Label 101 Proof
A sophisticated 12-year-old expression with impressive body and a long, dry finish that appeals to those who enjoy spiced, complex bourbons.
Old Grand-Dad Bottled in Bond
A well-rounded, spicy high-rye bourbon that delivers excellent value and makes an approachable introductory pour for bourbon newcomers.
J.K. Williams Golden Zephyr Wheated Bourbon
A light, fresh spring and summer sipper with floral and fruity notes and an unexpectedly long finish that shows promise for future releases with additional age.
Tawakoni Cask Strength Single Barrel Bourbon @ 00:02:09
A well-crafted craft bourbon with excellent balance between soft chocolate sweetness and aggressive spice, offering strong value for a cask-strength single barrel at this price point.
Buzzard Roost Very Small Batch Rye
A well-crafted entry-level rye that showcases the secondary barrel aging process, delivering smooth sweetness and citrus notes that appeal to bourbon drinkers.
Buzzard Roost Single Barrel Rye
A refined single-barrel expression that demonstrates subtler oak integration and a softer profile while maintaining the characteristic smoothness of the line.
Buzzard Roost Single Barrel Barrel Strength Rye
A complex, concentrated barrel-strength expression with concentrated flavors and smooth proof integration that delivers memorable peach and spice notes throughout.
Buzzard Roost Toasted Barrel Rye
An exceptional toasted-barrel expression that showcases butterscotch and honey sweetness with sophisticated nuttiness, delivering a showstopping profile worthy of dessert pairings.
Davidson Reserve Weeted Bourbon
A well-balanced weeted bourbon with excellent sweetness, chocolate and cherry notes, and a smooth, lingering finish that exemplifies the appeal of wheated bourbons.
Davidson Reserve 100% Rye Whiskey
An impressively full-bodied 100% rye with exceptional texture, balanced baking spice, and dried fruit notes that make it excellent for cocktails or neat sipping.
Davidson Reserve Tennessee Whiskey
A smooth, well-balanced Tennessee whiskey with excellent integration of the charcoal-mellowing process while maintaining the viscosity and character the distillery values.
Davidson Reserve Genesis Bourbon
A bold and unique bourbon without charcoal mellowing that showcases rich caramel, toasted marshmallow, and candy notes, creating a memorable and highly sought-after limited release.
Chattanooga Whiskey Cask 111 Tennessee Straight Bourbon Whiskey
A dark, well-integrated Tennessee bourbon with complex malt-forward character, bold spice, and lingering sweetness that delivers well above its price point without tasting immature.
13th Colony Southern Bourbon Whiskey
A well-crafted Southern bourbon with a beautiful bottle and excellent value that delivers consistent cherry and butterscotch notes with spicy rye character and a warming finish, making it an approachable everyday sipper.
Booker's Bourbon 2020-03 "Pigskin"
A bold, dry, and viscous high-proof bourbon with excellent balance of sweetness, spice, and oak that doesn't disappoint and is readily available at a fair price.
Cathead Distillery Old Soul 15 Year Bourbon 2020 Rare & Limited Release
An old soul bourbon with a dry, barrel-forward profile that rewards contemplative sipping and pairs exceptionally well with cigars or blues music.
Good Times Spirits Mo Honey Ali MGP Wheated Bourbon Finished in Honey Barrels
A boldly sweet, cask-strength honey-finished bourbon that showcases the wheated base beautifully and delivers surprising complexity at high proof.
Nashville Barrel Company Small Batch Rye Whiskey Batch 1.1
A bourbon lover's rye that balances youthful aromatics with mature depth—an excellent year-round daily sipper at a fair price point.
Nashville Barrel Company Single Barrel Rye Whiskey — Frugal McDougal / Dad's Drinking Bourbon Pick
A mature, complex single barrel that demonstrates the depth achievable with seven years of age—a step up in richness and boldness from the small batch expression.
Nashville Barrel Company Single Barrel Whiskey-Barrel-Finished Rum (Unreleased)
A double-oaked rum that applies bourbon transparency principles to the rum category—bold, flavorful, and true to barrel without additives.
Knob Creek 12 Year Cask Strength
A bold, well-aged cask-strength bourbon that showcases 12 years of oak maturation and is worth seeking out for experienced bourbon drinkers.
Weller Antique 107
A smooth, approachable wheated bourbon with sweet cherry and floral notes that delivers solid everyday drinking pleasure.
Maker's Mark Cask Strength
A refined, sit-down-and-relax wheated bourbon with surprising depth and character that justifies the higher proof.
Kings County Distillery Straight Bourbon Whiskey Barrel Strength
An impressively well-blended, high-proof craft bourbon with excellent balance between youth and maturity, delivering complex sweet and spicy notes that merit seeking out and sipping all day long.
Angel's Envy 2020 Cask Strength Kentucky Straight Bourbon Finished in Port Wine Barrels
A beautiful, high-proof finished bourbon that showcases the port barrel influence with complexity and sophistication—a special occasion pour that absolutely delivers.
Leiper's Fork Bottled in Bond Tennessee Whiskey @ 00:07:04
A smooth, corn-forward Tennessee whiskey with appealing candy-like sweetness and mid-palate spice that shows promise for future aging and fuller development.
Colonel E.H. Taylor Barrel Proof
A complex, spice-driven barrel proof with excellent balance between proof, oak, and fruit—a beautiful expression that rewards careful sipping.
Maker's Mark 46 Cask Strength
A well-crafted wheated bourbon that prioritizes soft, upfront sweetness and approachable proof—fine for sipping on a back porch without demand for complexity.
Elijah Craig Barrel Proof B520
A complex, barrel-forward pour with impressive mid-palate presence and long, warming finish—everything expected from a high-proof barrel proof.
Horse Soldier Barrel Strength
A wheated barrel strength with exceptional holiday spice complexity and perfect balance of sweetness and warmth—a craft distillery expression that competes with legendary bourbons.
Castle & Key Restoration Rye Batch 1
A well-crafted, character-filled rye with surprising complexity and depth for its age that delivers bold flavors and an engaging finish at an excellent price point.
Sugar House Distillery Bourbon Whiskey
A well-crafted Utah craft bourbon with notable rye influence that delivers a pleasant balance of spice and sweetness, suitable for spring and summer sipping.
Penelope Barrel Strength Four-Grain Bourbon
A beautifully presented, well-made craft bourbon with an engaging and unique pop rocks mouthfeel that delivers sweetness and gentle spice without heaviness, making it an excellent sipper for bourbon enthusiasts.
Oregon Spirit Distilleries Bottled in Bond Single Barrel Four-Grain Bourbon @ 00:06:46
A well-crafted four-grain bourbon with bold flavor and surprising complexity for its proof, though the light texture keeps it from being exceptional.
Lucky Seven The Jokester 6-Year Kentucky Straight Bourbon
A smoothly crafted daily drinker with excellent balance between vanilla sweetness and subtle spice that reveals new dimensions as it opens up in the glass.
Lucky Seven The Hold Up 12-Year Kentucky Straight Bourbon
A remarkably smooth 100-proof expression that gains complexity and depth from extended aging, delivering vanilla sweetness alongside elevated spice and warehouse character.
Donnie & Teresa's Rye Moonshine (100 Proof)
An exceptionally smooth and well-crafted rye moonshine with surprising sweetness and sophistication for its youth and proof.
Donnie & Teresa's Fruit-Infused Moonshine (approx. 45 Proof)
A deceptively drinkable fruit-infused moonshine with genuine fruit flavors and low proof that masks its alcohol content effectively.
George Washington's Rye Whiskey (Mount Vernon Distillery, Unaged, 86 Proof)
A clean, surprisingly soft unaged rye with historical significance that drinks better than its youth would suggest.
1955 Old Crow 4 Year (National Distillers)
A beautifully balanced dusty bourbon from the golden age of Old Crow, showcasing rich caramel, spice, and oily viscosity that modern Old Crow cannot replicate.
1963 Very Old Fitzgerald 8 Year Bottled in Bond (Stitzel-Weller)
An exceptional Stitzel-Weller dusty that delivers bold, complex flavors with impressive depth and oiliness that rivals modern premium bourbons.
1969 Early Times (86 Proof)
A well-preserved dusty Early Times that held up admirably with buttery texture, oily mouthfeel, and pleasant floral and butterscotch characteristics.
1985 Old Grand-Dad 114 Barrel Proof (National Distillers)
A robust and richly flavored dusty Old Grand-Dad that showcases the boldness, spice, and complexity of 1985 National Distillers stock, far superior to modern expressions.
13th Colony Southern Rye Whiskey
A well-crafted young rye packed with flavor, featuring prominent caramel and vanilla notes with a distinctive pecan pie sweetness that makes it an approachable sipper.
Shackleton Blended Malt Scotch Whisky
A smooth, fruit-forward blended malt with surprising depth for the price, offering buttery sweetness and floral character without the smoke typically associated with Scotch.
Angel's Envy Cask Strength 2019 (Port Finish)
A powerful, richly fruited port-finished bourbon with concentrated dark fruit and subtle spice that justifies its premium cask-strength release.
Legent Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
A beautifully balanced finished bourbon that showcases the partnership between American distilling prowess and Japanese blending finesse, offering complexity and elegance at an exceptional value price point.
Green River Bourbon (Barrel Sample)
A promising young bourbon with a complex, spicy palate that belies its youth and shows strong potential for future maturation.
Lucky Seven Spirits Holiday Toast Double-Oaked Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
A well-crafted holiday bourbon that balances warming spices with restrained sweetness, perfect for cold-weather enjoyment and festive occasions.
Blue Note Juke Joint Bourbon
A fully matured three-year bourbon that over-delivers on quality for its sub-$30 price point with surprising complexity and approachable smoothness.
Riverset Rye
A uniquely approachable and differentiated four-year rye that delivers surprising maturity and complexity at an exceptional sub-$30 value.
Bare Knuckle Straight Virginia Bourbon Whiskey – KNO Distillery
A respectable young bourbon that shows promise as a mixer, with adequate structure but lacking the refinement of older expressions.
Catoctin Creek Roundstone Rye – Distiller's Edition
A well-crafted rye with earthy character and a stronger back-palate that justifiably earned its awards, though slightly disjointed between nose and palate.
Calumet Farm 14 Year Old Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
A respectable, well-aged bourbon with bold spice and cherry character that makes for an interesting conversation piece and thoughtful gift, though it doesn't rank among the hosts' top selections.
Frey Ranch Single Barrel Distiller's Reserve
A flavor bomb single barrel that competes with top-tier barrel proof expressions, offering impressive complexity and a memorable long finish.
Pin Hook Bohemian Bourbon (Orange Wax) — 95 Proof
A well-balanced, versatile everyday bourbon with classic sweetness and rye spice that works well for cocktails or neat sipping, particularly suited to cooler weather.
Pin Hook Ride On Rye — 97 Proof
An excellent summer sipper with vibrant fruit and herb notes that drinks lighter than its proof, perfect for warm-weather enjoyment and showcasing the quality of young Castle & Key rye distillate.
Pin Hook Vertical Series 5-Year MGP Bourbon (2020 Release) — 104 Proof
A sophisticated expression showing mature characteristics with excellent sugar integration from the barrel, offering accessible collectibility as part of a compelling nine-year vertical series.
Bulleit 10 Year Straight Bourbon
A well-balanced fall sipper with notable rye spice and warming qualities, offering good value at its price point and convenient local availability.
WhistlePig 10 Year Straight Rye Whiskey
A sophisticated Canadian rye aged and blended in Vermont that delivers impressive complexity with a true rye character and warming autumn appeal.
Elijah Craig 18 Year Old
A balanced 18-year-old with beautiful fruity nose and exploratory oak character, though the proof-down and medium finish limit its overall impact.
Knob Creek 15 Year Old (2020 Special Release)
A bold, oak-driven fall sipper with impressive spice and rye character that rewards continued sipping despite its formidable oak presence.
J.W. Kelly Melrose Rye Whiskey (Double Barreled / Amarone Cask Finish, 92 Proof)
A soft, accessible entry-level rye with gentle spice and subtle wine influence—ideal for introducing new drinkers to the category without overwhelming them.
Wathens Kentucky Bourbon Single Barrel – Go Big Blue Liquor Store Pick (94 Proof)
A thin, corn-forward bourbon that works better mixed than sipped straight, with an honest but unremarkable profile.
Woodinville Whiskey Co. Private Select Cask Strength Bourbon – Westport Whiskey & Wine Store Pick, Barrel #3316 (120.7 Proof)
A beautifully crafted, full-bodied cask strength expression with excellent barrel integration and memorable sweetness-to-spice balance that justifies seeking it out.
Boundary Oak My Old Kentucky Home Single Barrel Straight Kentucky Bourbon Whiskey
An interesting and unusual younger bourbon with distinctive mineral and copper notes that provokes thoughtful analysis, though it would benefit from additional barrel age to fully round out its flavor profile.
Nappogue Castle 12 Year Old Single Malt Irish Whiskey
A smooth and approachable entry-level premium single malt with excellent balance, fruitiness, and creamy texture that showcases the quality of aged Irish whiskey without overwhelming the palate.
Nappogue Castle 14 Year Old Single Malt Irish Whiskey
A complex and well-crafted step up from the 12-year expression with beautiful floral and fruity notes balanced by rich vanilla and sherry influences, demonstrating masterful blending of bourbon and Oloroso cask contributions.
Nappogue Castle 16 Year Old Single Malt Irish Whiskey
A full-bodied and elegantly complex expression showcasing masterful two-year Oloroso cask finishing that adds depth, richness, and pronounced dark fruit character while maintaining the smooth, refined character that defines the Nappogue Castle portfolio.
Maker's Mark 46 Cask Strength
A warming, well-crafted wheated bourbon with excellent complexity that benefits significantly from the cask strength proof, delivering a long, satisfying finish with pronounced cinnamon and stone fruit character.
Garrison Brothers Honeydew
A dessert-style bourbon with honey-barrel finishing that delivers tropical fruit and sweetness—ideal for warm weather sipping, though the 80 proof limits the mouthfeel depth some would prefer.
Wild Turkey 101 (2018 Release)
A solid mid-shelf bourbon with a classic spicy, layered profile that rewards patient sipping and appeals to those who appreciate Kentucky bourbon character.
Woodinville Straight Bourbon Whiskey
A well-crafted, refreshing bourbon with excellent balance between sweet corn notes and spice, making it an ideal summer sipper.
Woodinville Straight Rye Whiskey
An exceptional and uniquely sweet rye whiskey with honey, baking spice, and anise notes that work beautifully in cocktails and as a dessert whiskey.
Blom Brothers Distilling Company Straight Rye Whiskey
A solid, honest four-year-old rye with good balance, subtle smoke complexity, and a satisfying Kentucky hug—worth the $50 and worth buying again.
Evan Williams Bottled in Bond White Label (100 proof)
A solid, affordable four-year-old sour mash bourbon that delivers reliable caramel and corn flavors without pretension.
Peerless Small Batch Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey (109.8 proof)
An excellent high-rye sweet mash bourbon with impressive spice complexity and a long, enjoyable finish for the proof.
Maker's Mark 46 Cask Strength Limited Edition (109.6 proof)
An impressive wheated bourbon with remarkable complexity, where front-palate sweetness expertly transitions to back-end spice and oak.
Colonel E.H. Taylor Four Grain Bottled in Bond (100 proof)
A legendary four-grain bottled-in-bond bourbon that showcases impressive barrel integration and multi-layered complexity at standard proof.
Lone Elm Small Batch Texas Straight Wheat Whiskey
A unique, well-rounded wheat whiskey with savory and licorice-dominant character that pairs excellently with barbecue and offers surprising complexity for a four-year expression.
Lone Elm Single Barrel Texas Straight Wheat Whiskey
A powerful single barrel expression with smoky, complex character and substantial warming that makes it an excellent winter sipper and campfire whiskey.
Blackened American Whiskey Batch 97 (Robert Trujillo Selection)
A well-crafted blend of bourbon and rye finished in black brandy cask that delivers unexpected complexity, nice balance of sweetness and spice, and makes an excellent entry point for whiskey newcomers.
Rabbit Hole Derringer Straight Bourbon Whiskey Finished in PX Sherry Casks
A well-crafted finished bourbon with a balanced nose and palate that shows good influence from the PX sherry cask, though the finish lacks length.
Joseph Magnus Bourbon Triple Cask Finish
A special, memorable pour that represents a beautiful integration of triple cask finishing, worthy of seeking out and exceptional as a gift for special occasions.
Three Cord Whiskey Drummer 15-Year Straight Kentucky Bourbon Whiskey (Batch 1)
A surprisingly well-balanced 15-year bourbon that tells a compelling story of its barrel age without being overwhelmed by oak, delivering rich chocolate, campfire, and spice notes with a impressive finish.
Elijah Craig Toasted Barrel
A special release that enhances the standard Elijah Craig with a compelling toasted barrel finish that layers in marshmallow sweetness and subtle cocoa complexity.
New Riff Bottled in Bond Straight Bourbon Whiskey (4 Year)
A well-balanced, spicy high-rye bourbon with excellent nose-palate continuity and a satisfying warming backend that delivers on the distillery's quality promise.
New Riff Bottled in Bond Straight Rye Whiskey (4 Year)
An intensely spicy, floral rye with remarkable mouthfeel and uniform palate presence that showcases the complexity of a 95% rye mashbill.
New Riff Single Barrel Straight Rye Whiskey Barrel #15-2775 112.2 Proof
A standout single barrel expression with exceptional floral aromatics, buttery mouthfeel, and complex spice notes that showcase the unique characteristics of this particular lot.
Old Dominic Huling Station Straight Wheat Whiskey
A distinctive dessert whiskey with natural red hot cinnamon character and wheat smoothness that steps outside the box while honoring historical recipe traditions.
Weller CYPB (Create Your Perfect Bourbon), 95 Proof
A solid wheated sipper at 95 proof with a pleasant cherry and spice profile that delivers a fair value at MSRP despite its unicorn status.
Stagg Jr. Batch 13, 128.4 Proof
A high-proof powerhouse with bold spice and chocolate notes that delivers an intense Kentucky hug, though it plateaus quickly without developing additional complexity.
Blanton's Original Single Barrel (93 proof, bottled September 2019)
A well-balanced and approachable single barrel with classic Blanton's character that showcases why it's beloved by so many.
Blanton's Gold Edition (103 proof, bottled March 2019)
A sweeter, higher-proof iteration that delivers increased proof presence without sacrificing the signature Blanton's profile.
Blanton's Straight from the Barrel (125.6 proof, bottled April 2019)
A robust barrel-proof expression with significant oak influence and complex spice that stands confidently alongside premium barrel-proof competitors.
Frey Ranch Straight Bourbon Whiskey
A well-rounded four-grain bourbon with creamy mouthfeel and balanced complexity that develops nicely in the glass.
Frey Ranch Straight Rye Whiskey
An exceptional 100% rye whiskey that delivers a burst of sweet, syrupy flavor with remarkable intensity and character that stands out from traditional eastern ryes.
Old Fitzgerald Bottled in Bond 9 Year Spring 2020 Release
An exceptional wheated bourbon that delivers a refined, buttery profile with excellent balance and lingering spice notes.
Orphan Barrel Rhetoric 25 Year Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
A solid and surprisingly well-preserved 25-year-old bourbon with an impressive upfront butterscotch character, though the finish doesn't quite match the promise of the nose and palate.
Oak and Eden Toasted Oak Finished Whiskey
A well-intentioned but ultimately thin and funky-tasting bourbon with pencil-shaving notes that overshadow its spice-sweetness balance, better suited for mixing than sipping neat.
Wild Turkey Master's Keep Bottled in Bond 17 Year
An exceptional high-oak bourbon that delivers serious character and complexity, representing the upper echelon of what Wild Turkey produces.
Wild Turkey Rare Breed Barrel Proof Rye
A bold, well-crafted Kentucky rye that punches above its four-year age with vibrant spice and surprising depth.
Leiper's Fork Straight Rye Whiskey
A well-balanced southern-style rye with surprising sweetness and dried fruit notes that avoids the typical herbal harshness of rye while showcasing excellent blending work.
Leiper's Fork Wheated Bourbon
A promising wheated bourbon in its early maturation that clearly benefits from additional barrel time to achieve the balance and creaminess characteristic of its style.
Chattanooga Whiskey Experimental Rye Malt Whiskey
A well-crafted, fairly complex rye whiskey with an accessible nose, layered palate, and pleasant finish that stands out as different from typical market ryes.
Buck Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey 8 Year
A solid eight-year-old Kentucky straight bourbon at an excellent price point that drinks smoothly with good depth and aging character, making it worthy of both personal enjoyment and gifting.
Woodinville Straight Bourbon Whiskey Port Finished
A well-crafted port-finished bourbon that delivers dark fruit and berry character throughout with impressive depth and complexity for its age.
TX Bourbon — Texas Straight Bourbon Whiskey
A well-crafted Texas straight bourbon with excellent maple and baking spice complexity that drinks hotter than its 90-proof statement suggests.
Old Tub Bottled in Bond
A respectable, appropriately-priced bottled in bond that works better as a mixer than as a straight sipper, lacking the depth and richness one might expect from the nose.
Widow Jane The Vaults 14 Year
A beautifully balanced sourced bourbon with clever blending that delivers smoothness and complexity for the weeded bourbon enthusiast.
Michter's 10 Year Straight Rye
A fantastic, well-balanced rye that represents the best iteration of Michter's rye expressions to date.
TX Bourbon Barrel Proof (Firestone & Robertson)
An exceptional Texas bourbon that demonstrates maturation acceleration from extreme heat, delivering complexity comparable to 12–14 year old Kentucky bourbons in just four years.
Knob Creek Caroline's Pick Single Barrel (Justin's House of Bourbon)
A delicious single-barrel pick showcasing the real value proposition of private barrel selections from knowledgeable retailers.
Boone County Small Batch Bourbon
A well-balanced small batch with pleasant nutty and caramel notes that delivers solid everyday drinkability.
Boone County Weeded Single Barrel Bourbon (Barrel Strength)
An impressive barrel-strength wheated bourbon that impressively balances intense sweetness with peppery spice in a well-integrated profile.
Whitehall Tavern Bourbon Cream
A convenient bourbon cream option with quality sourced alabaster cream that requires no refrigeration, ideal for those seeking an approachable bourbon-based cream liqueur.
Boulder Spirits Colorado Straight Bourbon Whiskey Bottled in Bond
A well-crafted, unique high-malt bourbon that offers an interesting flavor profile with sweet fruit and mineral notes, best enjoyed as a sipper rather than a mixer.
J.W. Kelly Old Milford Straight Bourbon Whiskey Single Barrel Select Double Proof
A well-aged Texas bourbon with bold corn character, sweet front end, and spice-driven finish that stands on its own merit despite being sourced juice.
Wild Turkey 101 Bourbon
The bourbon does not assert a strong individual character when combined with cola, allowing the Coke to overwhelm the whiskey.
Old Forester Rye
A sweet-forward rye expression in cola that brings cherry notes and caramel but risks being almost too sweet for some palates.
Larceny Small Batch Bourbon
Larceny's wheat-forward profile shines in cola, striking an ideal balance between caramel sweetness and bourbon structure that makes it a gateway whiskey for mixed drinks.
Jim Beam Single Barrel Bourbon
A well-rounded bourbon-and-Coke that presents as the quintessential bar experience with equal representation from both bourbon and cola.
Four Roses Yellow Label Bourbon
An unusual bourbon-and-Coke experience where upfront bitterness dominates, making this a less ideal choice for cola mixing.
Weller Special Reserve Bourbon
A dark-fruit-forward expression in cola that develops complexity as dilution occurs, though the plum character is not ideal for cola mixing compared to standard bourbon profiles.
Harbinger 115 @ 00:01:48
A young whiskey with impressive dark amber color and complex fruit-forward character that drinks well above its age statement.
Promethean Bottled in Bond 100 Proof @ 00:15:25
A sophisticated bottled-in-bond expression showcasing the flint corn and rye with dark fruit and baking spice complexity.
Purple Corn Single Barrel Euro Oak 121 Proof @ 00:33:51
A single-barrel expression that showcases the purple corn's bright, candy-forward character with excellent mouthfeel.
Bloody Butcher Single Barrel American Oak Wavestave 131 Proof @ 00:46:47
A phenomenal cask-strength expression with dense flavor complexity, velvety texture, and impressive maturity for its age.
Icarus Purple Corn Port and Islay Scotch Cask Finish 107.2 Proof @ 00:59:44
A creative dual-cask finish that successfully bridges corn whiskey's richness with elegant peat and port complexity.
Country Smooth American Whiskey (86 Proof)
A surprisingly smooth and well-crafted young whiskey that stands on its own neat and works beautifully in cocktails, appealing to both traditional and non-traditional whiskey drinkers.
Boondocks 8-Year Straight Bourbon Whiskey Finished in Port Barrels
An interesting fall sipper with a striking nose that unfortunately doesn't fully translate to the palate, delivering a short finish that doesn't justify its price point despite solid construction.
Balcones Texas Pot Still Bourbon
An approachable, savory-leaning four-grain bourbon with prickly pear fruit and honey notes that bridges traditional bourbon and unique grain experimentation.
Balcones Texas Weeted Bourbon (Single Barrel, Cask Strength, 2019)
A rich, cask-strength wheated bourbon with pronounced barrel spice and dessert-like caramel and praline notes that drink well above its youthful age.
Balcones True Blue Cask Strength (Blue Corn Bourbon)
A punchy, spicy 100% blue corn bourbon with an oily mouthfeel and pronounced wood influence that showcases the boldness of single-grain whiskey.
Balcones Texas Single Malt
A decorated and award-winning Texas single malt aged in new American oak that achieves surprising depth and balance for its youth, bridging Scotch tradition with American whiskey profile.
Balcones High Plains Single Malt
A groundbreaking single malt made from Texas-grown and Texas-malted barley that achieves remarkable color and complexity in under three years, showcasing the grain over fruit.
Balcones / Shiner Bock Collaboration Whiskey
A successful collaboration that transforms Shiner Bock's iconic recipe and lager yeast into a wheater-style whiskey that achieves balance between craft whiskey complexity and beer-drinker approachability.
Union Horse Rolling Standard Midwestern Not Four Grain Whiskey
A well-crafted blended whiskey with excellent flavor transitions and a satisfying, layered palate that rewards continued sipping.
Union Horse Reserve Straight Bourbon Whiskey
A creamy bourbon with banana pudding character and a lingering minty butterscotch finish that showcases younger oak aging.
Union Horse Reunion Rye Whiskey
A bold, spice-forward 100% rye whiskey with excellent balance of candy-like sweetness and complex peppery spice that stands apart from traditional Kentucky ryes.
Smoke Wagon Desert Jewel 10 Year Bourbon, 104 Proof
A beautifully balanced bourbon with creamy vanilla notes upfront followed by warming spice and sophisticated nutty flavors.
Wigle Pennsylvania Wheat Whiskey, 84 Proof
A smooth and drinkable wheat whiskey with an approachable sweet profile that could dangerously encourage over-consumption.
Mackenzie DIY4 Bourbon, 104 Proof
An innovative craft distillery blend featuring unique spelt grain that delivers surprising spice and floral complexity for a wheated bourbon.
Larceny Barrel Proof Bourbon, 115.2 Proof
A well-crafted wheated barrel proof bourbon that delivers smooth sipping and solid flavor without pretension at a reasonable price point.
Four Roses Single Barrel Select OESV 9 Year 6 Month (Jamie Ferris / Lincoln Road Pick)
An exceptional single barrel selection offering sophisticated leather and spice notes with excellent value for the quality.
Barrel Rye Single Barrel 13 Year, 145.2 Proof
A hazmat-proof rye that defies expectations with a deceptively smooth and buttery character that masks its considerable strength.
Old Grand-Dad Bourbon, Distilled 1962 / Bottled 1967
A vintage whiskey that shows significant age-related deterioration with musty, moldy notes that overwhelm the original butterscotch character.
Heaven Hill Bottled in Bond 6 Year
A solid, honest bourbon that represents the classic Kentucky standard—approachable, well-rounded, and enduring.
Heaven Hill Bottled in Bond 7 Year
An age-driven expression showing meaningful complexity and oak-driven character—a worthy sipper with demonstrated maturity and depth.
Caddie Deceptivist Bourbon
A light, refreshing summer sipper with port barrel influence that makes an approachable entry point for new bourbon drinkers despite being lower proof than the hosts typically prefer.
Pin Hook Ride On Straight Rye Whiskey
A refreshing and crisp Kentucky rye that works well as a summer sipper, offering fruit-forward and minty notes with excellent transparency about its sourcing.
Old 55 Sweet Corn Bourbon 80 Proof
A uniquely smooth, dessert-like bourbon that showcases the full potential of 100% sweet corn, drinking more like corn brandy than traditional bourbon.
Old 55 Bottled in Bond Single Barrel Weated Bourbon 100 Proof
A refined, well-balanced weated bourbon with impressive sweetness and spice that drinks older than its four years and exemplifies careful, clean distillation.
Dry Fly Washington Wheat Whiskey (Cask Strength, 3 Year, 120 Proof)
A surprisingly rich and well-balanced young wheat whiskey with an approachable nose and bold palate that delivers complexity beyond its three years of age.
Ragged Branch Weeded Bourbon Virginia Straight Bourbon Whiskey Double Oaked
A solid farm-to-bottle weeded bourbon with impressive double-oak character and velvety sweetness that drinks above its 90-proof statement.
Bulleit 10 Year Bourbon
A solid middle-tier expression with notable spice and a long, charred oak finish that serves as a good stepping stone for developing palates.
Bulleit Blender's Select
A well-crafted blending that improves upon the base expression with more body, balanced spice, and a creamy mouthfeel that justifies the step-up in proof and price.
Garrison Brothers Small Batch Texas Straight Bourbon Whiskey
A bold, character-driven Texas bourbon that holds its own against Kentucky benchmarks like Maker's Mark and W.L. Weller with an oilier, richer profile.
Garrison Brothers Balmorhea Texas Straight Bourbon Whiskey (Double Oak)
A sophisticated, multi-layered double oak expression that pairs excellence in proof and aging with extraordinary depth of flavor, reminiscent of George Strait's refined elegance.
Old Forester Single Barrel 90 Proof – Silver Dollar Store Pick
A solid value single barrel with pleasant banana-bread sweetness, though the thinness and drying oak keep it from being memorable.
Old Forester George Garvin Brown Single Barrel 100 Proof
A well-balanced single barrel stepping up in proof with appealing cherry sweetness and satisfying peppery spice on the finish.
Old Forester George Garvin Brown Single Barrel Barrel Strength (~130–135 Proof)
A rich, butter-forward barrel-strength expression with honey-cherry complexity and a bold peppery finish that justifies the high proof.
Sagamore Spirit Rye Whiskey Barrel #72 – Whiskey Crusaders / Mirage Fine Spirits Pick (110 Proof, 6 Year)
A polarizing rye with an atypical malty nose that masks a surprisingly pleasant, fruit-forward palate suitable for relaxed sipping.
Baker's 7 Single Barrel (107 Proof)
A well-aged single barrel with savory character and substantial oak that pairs beautifully with barbecue and rich foods.
Old Forester 2020 Birthday Bourbon (Unreleased)
A exceptional vintage birthday bourbon with beautiful tropical fruit expression and refined spice balance that exemplifies the quality Old Forester is known for.
Old Forester President's Choice Single Barrel Barrel #6 117.8 Proof
A well-balanced single barrel with excellent structure, leading with sweetness and finishing with memorable spice that showcases why President's Choice is a coveted limited release.
Knob Creek Small Batch 100 Proof
A well-balanced, approachable bourbon with pronounced barrel character and moderate spice.
Knob Creek 12 Year Small Batch 100 Proof
A refined, softer expression of Knob Creek with pleasant dried fruit complexity and a balanced, lingering finish.
Knob Creek Single Barrel Select Straight Rye Whiskey 115 Proof
A sweet Kentucky-style rye with candy-like fruit notes and a gentle pepper bite on the finish.
Knob Creek Single Barrel Reserve 9 Year 120 Proof
A rich, warming bourbon with butterscotch sweetness and a distinctly long, complex finish featuring spice and candy notes.
Knob Creek Cask Strength Straight Rye Whiskey 2018 Release 119.6 Proof
A powerful, herbally-forward rye whiskey with pronounced anise and licorice notes better suited for mixing than sipping neat.
Knob Creek 25th Anniversary Single Barrel 120.9 Proof
A celebratory single barrel with rich molasses sweetness and increased spice character that delivers complexity worthy of the occasion.
Barton Flatboat Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
A respectable mixing whiskey with limited complexity and depth as a neat sipper.
1792 Single Barrel Bourbon Whiskey
A more approachable sipper than its younger sibling, with better body and spice on the finish.
High West Bourye
A blend with interesting fruit notes but marred by drying tannins and an unusual prickly sensation that doesn't work well neat.
High West Double Rye
A spicy rye with herbal and malty notes that delivers more on the finish than the front palate.
High West Midwinter Night's Dram Act 6 Scene 6
A well-crafted finished rye with rich dark chocolate, spice cake, and molasses notes that delivers a long, satisfying finish.
Lee W. Sinclair Four Grain Bourbon
A well-crafted young bourbon with an unusual four-grain mash bill that delivers surprising complexity, creamy texture, and a finish that outperforms its two-year age statement.
Old Clifty Hoosier Apple Brandy
A robust frontier-style apple brandy that shares bourbon's structure and oak influence while maintaining distinct apple aromatics and a memorable, complex finish.
Spirits of French Lick Weeded Bourbon
A solid wheated bourbon with a vibrant nose and balanced sweetness that competes favorably with established wheated bourbon benchmarks.
Six and 20 Five Grain Bourbon Whiskey
A light, springtime whiskey with promise for future age statements, showing interesting barley character and unique rice grain contribution.
Elijah Craig Straight Rye
A sweeter Kentucky-style rye with prominent cinnamon and baking spice notes that mixes well in cocktails but lacks the complexity of higher-rye bourbons.
W.L. Weller 12 Year
A beautifully crafted wheated bourbon at the pinnacle of the sweet spot, displaying perfect balance and sophisticated caramel-forward character throughout.
Old Carter Straight Bourbon Whiskey Batch 4
A bold, complex bourbon with a loud voice that demands attention—floral and minty with dark fruit and spice that lingers long on the finish.
Old Carter Straight Bourbon Whiskey Batch 5
A surprising and delicious high-corn bourbon with vibrant citrus and key lime pie character that opens up beautifully in the glass, offering complexity throughout the palate.
Old Carter American Whiskey Batch 3
A high-proof, complex American whiskey with rich honey-raisin and cinnamon-bun character that drinks lighter than its proof suggests, offering surprising smoothness and depth.
Charles Medley Distillery – Bourbon Mafia Exclusive Selection Barrel Pick
A straightforward eight-and-a-half-year Heaven Hill expression with pleasant spice and citrus notes but lacking the depth and mouthfeel expected at its proof.
Michter's Fort Nelson Barrel Strength Rye (Barrel-Fill Experience Bottle)
A solid barrel-strength Kentucky-style rye with excellent spice, caramel, and citrus character that pairs well with food despite not being the host's preferred rye profile.
Wilderness Trail Distillery Bottled-in-Bond Wheated Bourbon
A delicious wheated bourbon that delivers cohesive sweet dessert and fruit notes with impressive smoothness for a four-year-old expression.
Wilderness Trail Distillery Settler's Select Single Barrel Rye Whiskey (Lion's Share pick, 113 proof)
A complex and beautifully balanced Kentucky rye with a blend of floral, spice, and candy notes that creates a seamless, enjoyable drinking experience.
Wyoming Whiskey Single Barrel Bourbon Whiskey
A respectable lighter whiskey with notable malt character and surprising complexity that drinks warmer than its modest proof suggests.
E.H. Taylor Amaranth Grain of the Gods Bottled-in-Bond Bourbon
A unique and memorable expression with distinctive earthy, dried fruit character and an ancient grain quality that sets it apart as a very good special release.
Baker's Single Barrel (107 Proof, 8 Years 6 Months)
A robust, high-proof bourbon with excellent smoky and nutty characteristics that pairs beautifully with savory breakfast fare.
Larceny Barrel Proof (approx. 122-123 Proof)
A vibrant, wheated barrel-proof bourbon with prominent cherry and almond notes that brightens when paired with complementary foods, offering impressive complexity without heaviness.
Weller Special Reserve @ 00:09:38
A sweet, smooth wheated bourbon with delicate oak influence and subtle fruit that makes for an excellent everyday sipper by the fire.
Weller 12 Year @ 00:22:47
A masterfully aged wheated bourbon with deep oak character and rich dried fruit that elevates the palate into special-occasion territory.
Weller Antique 107 @ 00:31:55
A higher-proof wheated bourbon that asserts itself with ethanol-driven spice and cherry notes, best visited occasionally rather than nightly.
Weller Full Proof Single Barrel "The Kraken" — Liquor Outlet Store Pick @ 00:49:02
A unique store-pick expression with a compelling savory-salty character that pairs beautifully with rich meats and stands out among standard Weller bottlings.
Colonel Hunter Select Barrel Tennessee Bourbon
A very approachable 10-year Tennessee bourbon with caramel and vanilla complexity that won best of class at the ADI conference.
Leapers Fork Single Barrel Rye Barrel #9 (55% Rye)
A southern-style single barrel rye with surprising sweetness and approachability for a cask-strength expression.
Leapers Fork Single Barrel Rye Barrel #5 (85% Rye)
A high-rye, northeastern-style single barrel rye with distinctive green apple and cherry notes and surprising drinkability.
Leapers Fork Tennessee Whiskey (Barrel Sample)
A well-crafted Tennessee whiskey with excellent smoothness and approachability that competes with established distillery standards.
Nelson's Greenbrier Tennessee Whiskey
A well-balanced wheated Tennessee whiskey with inviting caramel and peanut notes that showcases the blend of younger and mature whiskeys effectively.
Belle Meade Reserve Bourbon
A bold, cask-strength expression with dark and rich character that merits seeking out for its quality and intensity.
Horse Soldier Barrel Strength Bourbon Whiskey
A well-balanced, high-proof bourbon with restrained spice and fruity sweetness that delivers complexity without harsh burn.
Nelson's Green Brier Bell Meade Black Bell Craftsman Cask #4169
A refined, distillery-only release with compelling stout barrel finishing that delivers lingering chocolate and savory complexity.
Angel's Envy Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey Finished in Port Wine Barrels
A reliable and complex flagship bourbon that introduces newcomers to bourbon through its approachable port-finished profile while maintaining sophistication for seasoned drinkers.
Angel's Envy Rye Whiskey Finished in Caribbean Rum Barrels
A bold and unique rye expression where the aggressive rum barrel finish transforms the traditional rye profile into something altogether distinctive and memorable.
Willett Family Estate 6-Year Single Barrel Bourbon – Barrel #2136 "Cornbread" (124.8 proof)
A flavor-packed, spicy six-year bourbon with remarkable complexity and multiple layers that evolve across the palate and linger with surprising sweetness on the finish.
Elmer T. Lee 100th Birthday Tribute Bourbon (100 proof)
A beautifully crafted tribute release that elevates the standard Elmer T. Lee with specially selected barrels delivering exceptional sweetness, juicy fruit notes, and a luxuriously smooth mouthfeel.
Slane Irish Whiskey
A smooth, enjoyable Irish whiskey with a unique triple-cask profile that delivers surprising depth and complexity for its proof.
Redbreast 12 Year Cask Strength Single Pot Still Irish Whiskey
A pleasantly surprising cask-strength expression with creamy mouthfeel and bold sweetness that belies its high proof, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a more robust Irish whiskey experience.
Buffalo Trace Bourbon Whiskey
A versatile, well-crafted bourbon that works equally well neat by a fire or in a mixed drink, making it an essential shelf staple under $25.
Bluegrass Distillers Blue Corn Weeted Bourbon (Straight)
A delicate, well-balanced wheated bourbon with a sweet and floral profile that demonstrates excellent craftsmanship for a younger spirit.
Bluegrass Distillers Yellow Corn Weeted Bourbon Single Barrel Unfiltered (94 Proof)
An exceptional unfiltered single barrel pour with excellent barrel influence, robust mouthfeel, and complex spice for a younger bourbon.
Bluegrass Distillers High Rye Bourbon (100 Proof)
A well-crafted rye bourbon with excellent balance, butterscotch notes, and subtle spice that appeals to those seeking a less sweet profile.
Bluegrass Distillers Bottled-in-Bond High Rye Bourbon (Barrel Proof)
An impressive bottled-in-bond expression showcasing excellent barrel maturation, complex dried fruit and spice notes, and the quality a craft distillery can achieve at four years.
Maker's Mark Private Select "Shut the Box Edition" (109.7 proof)
A beautiful bourbon with good balance of sweetness and spice, showing the effectiveness of Maker's Mark's private selection stave program.
Nelson's Green Brier Tennessee Whiskey
A really good Tennessee whiskey with a wheated mashbill that offers excellent balance between fruit-forward sweetness and subtle spice.
Evan Williams Original Southern Eggnog
A well-crafted seasonal eggnog that delivers sweetness and creaminess with approachable flavors, best enjoyed as a holiday spirit.
Homemade Christmas Spice Bourbon Cream in Coffee
A delightful homemade bourbon cream that shines when paired with hot coffee, delivering balanced sweetness and warmth perfect for Christmas.
Henry McKenna 10-Year Single Barrel Bottled-in-Bond
A world-class bottled-in-bond bourbon that balances sweetness, spice, and complexity beautifully, worthy of its recognition as best bourbon and best whiskey in the world.
Woodford Reserve Master's Collection Chocolate Malted Rye
An exceptional bourbon that delivers rich chocolate and caramel notes with impressive complexity, best enjoyed neat or with a single cube to open it up.
Old Forester 1910 Old Fine Whisky
A standout dessert whiskey offering remarkable sweetness and complexity that warrants seeking out and keeping on hand.
Bardstown Bourbon Company Fusion Series No. 2
A well-balanced blended bourbon showcasing the fusion of young distillery product with aged sourced bourbon, delivering complexity without harshness.
Bardstown Bourbon Company Discovery Series No. 2
An exceptional cask-strength blend of multi-aged bourbons offering remarkable complexity and a persistent, evolving finish that showcases the art of blending at its finest.
Woodford Reserve Double Oaked
An exceptionally well-crafted bourbon with a rich, sweet profile and complex layered finish that earned it first place in the blind tasting.
Jefferson's Reserve
A gentle, approachable bourbon with floral and stone fruit characteristics that falls short compared to its peers in this price range.
1792 Single Barrel
A well-balanced single barrel with compelling ginger snap and spice cake aromatics and a satisfying sweet-spice interplay on the palate.
Four Roses Small Batch Select
A robust and spicy pour with pronounced cinnamon and pepper notes, though the finish leans heavily into heat without full refinement.
Widow Jane 10-Year-Old Bourbon
A bold, well-balanced 10-year blend from Indiana, Tennessee, and Kentucky juice that drinks bigger than its 91 proof and showcases signature Widow Jane dark stone fruits and baking spice character.
Widow Jane The Vaults 14-Year-Old Bourbon
A remarkable 14-year blend finished in eight-year air-seasoned oak that delivers impressive balance, rich minerality, and evolving complexity with notes of sassafras, leather, and stone fruits.
Rocktown Single Barrel Cask Strength Rye Whiskey
A beautiful single barrel rye with surprising sweetness and complexity that drinks older than its 35 months due to Arkansas heat.
Clay Turner Straight South Dakota Bourbon Whiskey
A solid two-year-old South Dakota bourbon with good legs and a pleasant balance of sweetness and spice for its age.
Jimmy's 90 Straight Bourbon Whiskey
An excellent four-year Texas bourbon with distinct corn sweetness and well-integrated spice that offers great character and balance.
Jimmy's 100 Straight Bourbon Whiskey
A beautiful blended expression with a floral nose and refreshing citrus character that balances well with its rye spice for a very approachable 100-proof sipper.
Rocktown Single Barrel Reserve Cask Strength Arkansas Bourbon Whiskey
A rich, full-flavored cask-strength bourbon with pronounced caramel and baking spices that won Micro Whiskey of the Year in Jim Murray's Whiskey Bible and offers excellent complexity.
Hotel Tango Reserve Six-Year Bourbon
A well-aged wheated bourbon with excellent balance, suitable for contemplative sipping by a fireplace.
Hotel Tango Two-Year High Rye Bourbon
A young high-rye bourbon with impressive maturity and versatility, equally suited for sipping neat or mixing in cocktails.
Hotel Tango Straight Rye Whiskey
A complex and well-crafted straight rye with surprising sweetness and depth, demonstrating careful barrel selection and blending.
Hotel Tango Gin
An exemplary American-style gin that is approachable for novices yet complex enough for gin enthusiasts, drinkable neat.
Hotel Tango Cherry Liqueur
A sophisticated cherry liqueur with surprising depth and versatility, balancing tartness and sweetness while delivering bourbon backbone and bakery-like complexity.
Rich Grain Distilling High Rye Bourbon
A young, delicate bourbon with pronounced malt and rye characteristics that will likely mellow and improve with additional aging.
Michter's Barrel Strength Bourbon
A delicious, richly flavored barrel-strength bourbon with excellent balance between sweetness and spice.
Jefferson's Ocean Aged at Sea Voyage 15 Wheated Mash Bourbon
A lighter, more delicate wheated bourbon with pleasant fruity and spice notes that benefits from its ocean voyage maturation.
Bowman Brothers Pioneer Spirits Virginia Straight Bourbon Whiskey
A pleasant, approachable Virginia bourbon with floral sweetness and almond notes that drinks smoothly despite its youth.
Yellow Rose Outlaw Bourbon Whiskey
A surprisingly well-balanced young, all-corn bourbon with candy corn sweetness and subtle pepper that would work well neat or in a cocktail.
Sam Houston 12 Year Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
A well-aged, boldly flavored sipping whiskey with rich caramel and oak character that presents itself fully on the first sip and rewards contemplation by the fireplace.
Peerless Single Barrel Straight Rye Whiskey "Spiced Tea" (3 Year)
A remarkably well-rounded and complex young rye with exceptional mouthfeel and layered flavor development that punches well above its age statement.
Kentucky Owl Straight Rye Whiskey Batch 1
A well-crafted, warming rye with good viscosity and balanced spice that delivers a robust and memorable finish, though the alcohol warmth is notably present.
Willett Family Estate Bottled Small Batch Straight Rye Whiskey (4 Year)
A distinctive and elegant rye with pronounced minty florals and berry fruit that showcases Willett's signature bright profile in a well-balanced, approachable package.
Sagamore Spirit Cask Strength Straight Rye Whiskey
A paradoxical rye where a challenging nose gives way to a seductive, fruit-forward palate and exceptional finish that rewards persistence and sipping.
Jay Mattingly 1845 "Fickle Mistress" Single Barrel Straight Rye Whiskey (4 Year)
An impressively dark and richly flavored single barrel that delivers unexpected depth and sophistication for its youth, with bold spice and cocoa-chocolate character that justifies its premium proof.
291 Colorado Bourbon Whiskey
A bold, well-crafted Western bourbon with impressive complexity for its age statement, displaying excellent balance and a lengthy, evolving finish.
291 Colorado Rye Whiskey
A distinctive Colorado rye whiskey that clearly declares its rye character while maintaining unusual sweetness from its malted grain component, making it a compelling expression with excellent balance.
Boundary Oak Abraham Lincoln Cask Strength Single Barrel Bourbon
A well-crafted cask-strength bourbon with pre-prohibition styling that showcases the distillery's commitment to quality through bold proof and careful barrel selection.
Boundary Oak George S. Patton Armored Diesel
A historically-inspired craft spirit that successfully recreates the devil's cut tradition Patton favored, delivering oak complexity and smoothness without the typical whiskey burn.
Boundary Oak Cinnful Cinnamon Liqueur
An award-winning cinnamon liqueur that masterfully balances Madagascar cinnamon intensity with drinkability, winning best in class at San Francisco spirits competition.
Eagle Rare 10 Year Single Barrel Bourbon
A smooth, approachable 10-year bourbon with classic vanilla and caramel notes that makes for a solid everyday sipper.
Jim Beam Distiller's Cut Straight Bourbon Whiskey
A well-balanced, unfiltered bourbon with pronounced oak and chocolate notes that delivers a smooth, easy-drinking experience.
Jim Beam Black Extra Aged
A solid everyday bourbon that delivers caramel and oak character at a friendly price point, good for sipping or mixing.
Old Forester 1910 Old Fine Whiskey (Second Release)
A well-crafted double-barreled bourbon with rich caramel and oak character that drinks warmer and smoother than its proof suggests, offering good value in the $55–$65 range.
Henry McKenna 10-Year Single Barrel Bottle in Bond (Barrel #4648)
An exceptional single-barrel offering with rich baking spice and caramel complexity that punches above its price point and delivers a memorable, smooth sipping experience.
Jim's House Blend "Old Hoot" (Blend 5A, Batch 2, Bottle 7)
A carefully crafted personal blend that drinks considerably warmer and punchier than its 100-proof statement, balancing sweet fruit and caramel with a satisfying peppery finish.
Maker's Mark Bourbon
A distinct, wheated bourbon with signature sweetness that pairs well with everything and is instantly recognizable in the glass.
Stagg Jr. Bourbon
A hot, peppery bourbon that delivers intensity without crossing into unpleasant territory, making it an acceptable sipper after some consideration.
Kentucky Peerless Small Batch Bourbon
A well-balanced small batch bourbon with layered sweetness and earthy complexity, representing Peerless's first bourbon release in 102 years.
Kentucky Peerless Small Batch Rye
A Kentucky rye whiskey with remarkable nose complexity and balanced flavors that showcase the benefits of corn inclusion in the mash bill.
Kentucky Peerless Single Barrel Bourbon – Citrus and Cedar
A single barrel expression with prominent citrus and cedar character that opens up with sweet and savory smoke elements.
Kentucky Peerless Single Barrel Bourbon – Vintage Manhattan
An exceptional single barrel bourbon with textbook quality and remarkable depth, featuring compelling dark fruit and cherry notes with lingering viscous sweetness.
Bardstown Bourbon Company Fusion Series Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
A well-crafted blended bourbon that demonstrates skillful use of composition to balance younger and aged stocks into a respectable, flavorful pour.
Heaven Hill 6-Year Bottled-in-Bond Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey (White Label, Discontinued)
An exceptional value bourbon that exemplifies what a six-year straight bourbon can deliver, with a punchy palate and impressive finish at a remarkably accessible price point.
Woodford Reserve Distiller's Select Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
A gold standard Kentucky straight bourbon that is balanced, complex, and elegant enough to sip neat, pair with food, or enjoy in cocktails.
Woodford Reserve Double Oaked Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
A dessert bourbon designed specifically for after-dinner sipping that delivers impressive color, viscosity, and complex sweetness while remaining versatile enough for cocktails and culinary applications.
Wilderness Trail Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey Bottled in Bond (Wheated, Single Barrel)
A matured wheated bourbon showing excellent integration of oak with sweet grain character and a palatable, smooth finish.
Wilderness Trail Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey Bottled in Bond (High Rye, Small Batch)
A well-balanced high-rye bourbon with floral aromatics, sweet spice, and dried fruit character that showcases the rye in a sophisticated manner.
Wilderness Trail Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey Cask Strength Single Barrel
An exemplary cask-strength rye with vibrant floral and citrus notes, balanced spice, and exceptional drinkability that showcases the distillery's mastery of high-proof whiskeys.
Westport Whiskey and Wine Single Barrel Wild Turkey Kentucky Spirit (101 Proof, Camp Nelson, Warehouse F, Barrel #0859)
A complex and elegant Kentucky Spirit that exemplifies Westport's house style with richness, roundness, and well-balanced spice.
Westport Whiskey and Wine Single Barrel Grass Widow Madeira-Finished Straight Bourbon Whiskey (119.2 Proof Barrel Proof)
An exceptionally well-executed and distinctive Madeira-finished bourbon with impressive balance, complexity, and a compelling flavor journey.
Michter's US-1 Toasted Barrel Finish Bourbon (2018)
A well-crafted toasted barrel bourbon with pleasant oak, caramel, and smoke characteristics that earns its name.
Kentucky Peerless Distilling Co. Barrel Strength Bourbon
An impressive uncut, unfiltered barrel strength bourbon with vibrant spice, fruit, and a lengthy finish that punches above its four-year age statement.
Weller Antique 107 — Silver Dollar Single Barrel Select, Barrel #6
A solid, approachable wheated bourbon with surprising spice and a pleasant cherry-forward profile that justifies its reputation as a personal favorite among the Weller lineup.
Strawberry Basil Sour (Four Roses Bourbon Cocktail)
A well-crafted summer cocktail that showcases Four Roses' versatility while the homemade strawberry simple syrup and fresh basil create an inviting, spirit-forward sipper that goes down too smoothly.
Blanton's Single Barrel Bourbon
A beautiful, creamy bourbon with lovely caramel and oak character that finishes extremely well.
Angel's Envy Finished Rye
An expertly finished rye with beautiful spice and rich sweetness that delivers a warm, memorable finish.
Heaven Hill Fighting Cock Kentucky Straight Bourbon 103 Proof
An approachable but unremarkable entry-level bourbon that prioritizes sweetness over complexity, scoring better on nose than execution overall.
Old Overholt Straight Rye Whiskey Bottled in Bond 100 Proof
A historically significant rye that underperforms in blind tasting, offering restrained character and a fleeting finish with minimal engagement.
Heaven Hill Bottled in Bond 6 Year Kentucky Straight Bourbon 100 Proof
A remarkably well-crafted bottled-in-bond expression that delivers sophisticated spice and balance far exceeding its modest price point, earning it the night's top ranking.
JTS Brown Bottled in Bond Kentucky Straight Bourbon 100 Proof
A bold, spice-forward bourbon offering impressive depth and character at an exceptional sub-$10 price, delivering surprising complexity that rewards a careful pour.
Wild Turkey Master's Keep Decades
A complex and bold non-chill filtered bourbon with excellent mouthfeel and a notably long finish that showcases Eddie Russell's masterful barrel selection.
Wild Turkey Rare Breed Batch 116.8
An exceptional barrel-proof bourbon with bright citrus notes and masterful flavor balance achieved through Jimmy Russell's skilled blending of barrels from different rickhouse positions.
Rebel Yell 10 Year Single Barrel
A well-crafted wheated bourbon with excellent aging character, showing oak presence and a complex, lingering finish that rewards patient sipping.
Rebel Yell (80 proof, no age statement)
A solid everyday wheated bourbon at an exceptional price point, offering pleasant corn-forward sweetness and easy drinkability for casual sipping.
WB Saffle
A well-crafted blend with good heat and sweetness that compares favorably to Russell's Reserve single barrel picks.
Booker's Bourbon Backyard BBQ Batch 2018-02
An impressive high-proof pour that maintains smoothness and sweetness despite its intensity, offering excellent value and complexity.
Legent Bourbon
A delicious and well-balanced collaboration bourbon finished in wine and cherry casks that drinks smoothly at 94 proof with subtle finishing influences.
Jefferson's Reserve Old Rum Cask Finish
A smooth and interesting rum-cask-finished bourbon that brings dark molasses and sorghum sweetness to the finish while maintaining solid bourbon character.
Four Roses OESV 9-Year 3-Month Brent Elliott Select Single Barrel
A well-rounded, complex bourbon with impressive spice-forward character and a persistent, satisfying finish.
Henry McKenna 10-Year Single Barrel Bottled in Bond
A beautifully balanced, creamy bourbon that delivers surprising depth and finish for its modest proof.
2018 Colonel E.H. Taylor Barrel Proof
An assertive, flavor-packed barrel proof bourbon with an exceptional finish and rare apple-cinnamon character that lingers unforgettably.
Buffalo Trace Single Oak Project
A distinctly individual and tropical-forward bourbon with an unconventional flavor profile that surprises more than it pleases.
J. Henry & Sons Wisconsin Straight Bourbon Nancy Fraley Single Barrel Select 7 Year
A bold, spice-driven Wisconsin bourbon where the mid-palate flavor bomb of chocolate and cinnamon outweighs the more muted front-of-palate sweetness.
Four Roses Small Batch Select
A standout Four Roses offering with smooth delivery, sweet cocoa-chocolate character, and complexity that ranks among the distillery's best expressions.
Glen's Creek OCD No. 5
A full-flavored barrel-strength bourbon with surprising savory-charred notes balancing sweet caramel and chocolate, showcasing innovative use of historical Old Crow yeast culture.
Bourbon Mimosa (Rittenhouse Rye, Orange Juice, Champagne)
A well-balanced brunch cocktail that elevates the traditional mimosa with barrel-strength rye spice and full flavor without overwhelming the citrus and champagne components.
Woodford Reserve Bottled in Bond (Spring 2018)
A well-rounded, fruit-forward bottled-in-bond bourbon with prominent apple and cinnamon notes and an impressively smooth finish.
Very Old Barton Bottled in Bond
An excellent value bottled-in-bond bourbon with caramel sweetness, raisin notes, and a bold middle palate that makes it worthy of everyday rotation.
Knob Creek Rye Single Barrel Select (Lexington Bourbon Society / Wine & Market Pick)
A deceptively smooth and sweet high-proof rye with beautiful citrus notes and spice balance that belies its alcohol content.
Wilderness Trail Single Barrel High Rye Bourbon (Lexington Bourbon Society / Wine & Market / Whiskey Bear Pick)
An exceptional four-year-old high-rye bourbon that drinks with the maturity of a much older whiskey, delivering clean rye spice and wood complexity without youthful harshness.
Russell's Reserve Single Barrel — Lexington Bourbon Society / Whiskey Bear Pick (Rickhouse K)
A solid Rickhouse K pick with approachable fruit-forward spice and good balance.
Single Cask Nation Wild Turkey — Rickhouse K, 10+ Years, Cask Strength, Non-Chill Filtered
An exceptional barrel with stellar complexity, layers, and impressive cask strength delivery that stands among the best modern Wild Turkey releases.
Old Carter Bourbon Batch 2
A bold, creamy bourbon with pronounced aromatics and an oily mouthfeel that delivers a rounded, satisfying experience.
Old Carter Rye Batch 3
A high-proof rye with bold citrus and cedar aromatics, offering impressive spice and a luxuriously creamy mouthfeel despite its proof.
Old Carter Rye Batch 4
A more subtle and rounded rye expression with prominent clove and spice, offering greater depth and a longer finish than its predecessor.
Old Carter Very Old Carter 27-Year American Whiskey Barrel #9
An exceptional ultra-aged expression with elegant Cognac-like qualities, stunning caramel complexity, and a luxuriously thick, clinging finish that justifies its 27 years in barrel.
Old Carter Very Old Carter 27-Year American Whiskey Barrel #6
A uniquely candied and sweetly decadent 27-year expression featuring prominent butterscotch and rum candy notes that create an otherworldly, dessert-like whiskey experience.
Old Maysville Club Kentucky Straight Rye Malt Whiskey (Bottled-in-Bond, 100 Proof)
A unique and approachable malted rye with creamy viscosity and delicate stone fruit character that stands apart from conventional ryes.
Knob Creek Twice Barreled Rye (100 Proof)
A solid rye with bold oak and interesting peanut character, though the finish falls short of expectations for a twice-barreled expression.