The Bourbon Thread!!

[Chainsaw13]

Don’t hate me, but I enjoyed Apprentice batch. So much so, I bought a backup bottle. Can we still be friends? :D

[icehog3]

Don’t hate me, but I enjoyed Apprentice batch. So much so, I bought a backup bottle. Can we still be friends? :D

We can., Bob

https://i.imgur.com/bExw9Rv.gif

[icehog3]

Local chain has had Kentucky Owl Batch 12 in their rare bourbon case for the better part of two years. Apparently my store got a case (6) in 2022 and hadn't sold a single one at the MSRP of $399. This is an excellent bourbon, but not a 400 dollar bourbon for me.

Binny's finally caved and lowered the price to $149. With a 20 dollar coupon I had, made it palatable to take the plunge.

https://i.imgur.com/5ULxiX1.jpg

[Porch Dweller]

Yeah, I 'd pass too. I can buy five or six great bourbons for $400.

[Chainsaw13]

Nice pickup Tom. I’ve seen the KO bottles around, but the price scares me off.

Seems my palate is back. Tasting both Bookers 21-04 & 22-01. Really like them both. Can taste differences unlike my last Bookers tasting.

[Brian D.]

Anybody here ever tried Mr and Mrs brand bourbon? A local cigar bar keeps a bottle on hand because the owner claims it's the worst thing ever, which gives him the opportunity to prank someone occasionally.

[icehog3]

Happy your palate reset, Bob. :tu

I guess the owner hasn't had Malort, Brian. ;) :r

[icehog3]

Little Book Chapter 3. Blend of : 9 year old Knob Creek, 9 year old Basil Hayden's, 11 year old Booker's, and 12 year old Baker's..

https://i.imgur.com/Y870PBn.jpg

[Chainsaw13]

Stopped by my local store yesterday. Snagged their KC SiB. 9 year, 10 month. Delicious. They also had a bottle of ER on the shelf, which I grabbed for a friend.

[icehog3]

Love those Knob Creek picks, Bob, picking up one from a local group next week. Enjoy!

[Chainsaw13]

Love those Knob Creek picks, Bob, picking up one from a local group next week. Enjoy!

I did yesterday. Had about 1/4 of the bottle. :fp

[shark]

Spotted some Heaven Hill Bottled in Bond today but didn't buy it. Is this good or nah?

[Chainsaw13]

Spotted some Heaven Hill Bottled in Bond today but didn't buy it. Is this good or nah?

Yep, definitely worth picking up Ron.

Stopped by Total Wine this morning. Grabbed the Ben Holladay Soft Red Wheat BiB.

[icehog3]

Dropped off QT's ring for repairs, then stopped into Sal's which is just across the street. They had just dropped their OFBS single barrel so I grabbed one of those to try.

https://i.imgur.com/cKAhSS7.jpg

Sunday I grabbed a couple EC private barrel picks commemorating 100 years of Medinah Country Club. One is for the friend who took us for a tour and lunch there a couple weeks ago.

https://i.imgur.com/fxF3KPq.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/MVK0sER.jpg

[stearns]

Stopped by Total Wine this morning. Grabbed the Ben Holladay Soft Red Wheat BiB.

I got a SRW Rickhouse Proof (120.1) from a friend that is absolutely killer, I think it would be a fair matchup against most Weller Full Proof barrels even though it lacks some of the complexity that WFP can get

No bourbon updates over here, still trying to drink through my opens, the goal is to clear out some significant shelf space by the end of the year by drinking through the stuff that is either low or mostly full because they don't get me excited

[Chainsaw13]

I keep saying the same Ben, I need to stop buying and drink thru my current stock. But then I keep finding interesting bottles.

I don’t think we get the single rickhouse here in MI. I’ll keep my eye out for it though. My guess it’ll be easier to get than WFP.

[Weelok]

Dropped off QT's ring for repairs, then stopped into Sal's which is just across the street. They had just dropped their OFBS single barrel so I grabbed one of those to try.

https://i.imgur.com/cKAhSS7.jpg

Sunday I grabbed a couple EC private barrel picks commemorating 100 years of Medinah Country Club. One is for the friend who took us for a tour and lunch there a couple weeks ago.

https://i.imgur.com/fxF3KPq.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/MVK0sER.jpg


Nice color on those bottles. They look very tasty. Great finds.

[Weelok]

Little Book Chapter 3. Blend of : 9 year old Knob Creek, 9 year old Basil Hayden's, 11 year old Booker's, and 12 year old Baker's..

https://i.imgur.com/Y870PBn.jpg

Wow, that sounds like a tasty Bookers. Nice.

[Chainsaw13]

Nice color on those bottles. They look very tasty. Great finds.

Yea, both those bottles are usually killer.

[icehog3]

More stuff today.

Local FB guy was downsizing his mid-level stuff, I grabbed an Old Ezra 107 and a Baker's 7 Year. They're $74 and $69 respectively around here, I got both for $75.

https://i.imgur.com/gJyW5rY.jpg

Also got 2 Pinhooks : One was Seelbach's cask strength single barrel pick. The other one was a collaboration between Pinhook and the Kentucky Black Bourbon Guild to honor legendary jockey Issac Burns Murphy. How could I not?

https://i.imgur.com/QLR2xiQ.jpg

[Chainsaw13]

Killing it Tom!

[Weelok]

Dang!!!! I need friends who want to downsize LOL. My friends down size by tossing the empty bottles.


More stuff today.

Local FB guy was downsizing his mid-level stuff, I grabbed an Old Ezra 107 and a Baker's 7 Year. They're $74 and $69 respectively around here, I got both for $75.

https://i.imgur.com/gJyW5rY.jpg

Also got 2 Pinhooks : One was Seelbach's cask strength single barrel pick. The other one was a collaboration between Pinhook and the Kentucky Black Bourbon Guild to honor legendary jockey Issac Burns Murphy. How could I not?

https://i.imgur.com/QLR2xiQ.jpg

[Gabe215]

My Dad snagged this and cracked it open over the weekend with me, while I liked it, gotta say I didn’t love it.
https://i.postimg.cc/LXydk5gV/1-C68-E7-BD-0-B68-471-B-AECF-16-D054853320.jpg (https://postimg.cc/MMjrqWDc)

[icehog3]

Killing it Tom!

I know, right? :D

Dang!!!! I need friends who want to downsize LOL. My friends down size by tossing the empty bottles.

Yeah, definitely nice to get bottles below MSRP, Dave. :tu

My Dad snagged this and cracked it open over the weekend with me, while I liked it, gotta say I didn’t love it.
https://i.postimg.cc/LXydk5gV/1-C68-E7-BD-0-B68-471-B-AECF-16-D054853320.jpg (https://postimg.cc/MMjrqWDc)

Good flavor, but at 89 proof I might as well be drinking Coors Light, Gabe. ;)

[stearns]

Nice grabs Tom! You just reminded me that the last time I was back home I picked up a few bottles that should be waiting for me, common stuff at the time - OE7, EC 94 proof pick and a 14 year KC pick. I'm going back in a month, need to remember to bring them home with me :r

If you ever see the first collab series from Pinhook, the 10 year Wyoming Whiskey one, do kindly let me know :)

[icehog3]

Nice grabs Tom! You just reminded me that the last time I was back home I picked up a few bottles that should be waiting for me, common stuff at the time - OE7, EC 94 proof pick and a 14 year KC pick. I'm going back in a month, need to remember to bring them home with me :r

If you ever see the first collab series from Pinhook, the 10 year Wyoming Whiskey one, do kindly let me know :)

I will, Ben.

14 Year KC pick, "common"? C'mon! :lr

[stearns]

14 Year KC pick, "common"? C'mon! :lr

Bought three from Total Wine that trip, I think they were on sale :sl:sl

[icehog3]

Just love those 14-15 year KC picks, Ben. I woulda grabbed them all. :dr

Opened the Pinhook sib last night. I'd say it's middle of the road for Pinhook single barrels I've tried, but still well worth MSRP.

https://i.imgur.com/vmScSaE.jpg

[Weelok]

https://i.postimg.cc/Vv533fZ0/IMG-0060.jpg (https://postimages.org/)

https://i.postimg.cc/XJsRHGL0/IMG-0061.jpg (https://postimages.org/)

[icehog3]

Nice snags, Dave! :dr

I was able to try Old Forester 1924 at a restaurant this weekend. Pretty tasty, I would buy a bottle if I could find one as MSRP.

https://i.imgur.com/JxbkJCQ.jpg

[Weelok]

Nice snags, Dave! :dr

I was able to try Old Forester 1924 at a restaurant this weekend. Pretty tasty, I would buy a bottle if I could find one as MSRP.



Yeah, MSRP, the new unicorn in bourbon finds.

I think I’ve accepted defeat but it amazes me how people find deals still! For me these days, sales on bourbon reduce the price to MSRP or just above MSRP. Sheesh.

[icehog3]

Yeah, Dave, I wish I had gotten into the bourbon game before it all went crazy.

But I probably would have drunk it all by now. ;) :al :lr

[Weelok]

https://i.postimg.cc/6Ts0fJmZ/IMG-0068.jpg (https://postimages.org/)

Father’s Day sale. Had to do it!!! My Dad, brother, and myself like it quite a bit.

[Chainsaw13]

Nice pick up Dave. :tu

[icehog3]

Sweet git, Dave! :dr

[hotreds]

Get ready for some tasty stuff from the usual suspects at Shack!

[Chainsaw13]

Stopped by a local store (I affectionately call Top Price Liquor) down the street from the breakfast spot I meet some friends at. Amazing selection, prices live up to my renaming. EHT SB store pick/$249, 4R store pick/$149, Bookers/$149. You get the idea.

Hit up my local store and saw the owner. He got his EHT SB pick in. Going to be $125. Just waiting on his message invite to a WhatsApp group.

[Weelok]

Stopped by a local store (I affectionately call Top Price Liquor) down the street from the breakfast spot I meet some friends at. Amazing selection, prices live up to my renaming. EHT SB store pick/$249, 4R store pick/$149, Bookers/$149. You get the idea.

Hit up my local store and saw the owner. He got his EHT SB pick in. Going to be $125. Just waiting on his message invite to a WhatsApp group.

$125!!!!!! How fast can you buy? Wow!! That is a no brainer buy, whooooeeee.

[icehog3]

Yup. $125 is a great price for an EHT sib pick. Color me jelly, Bob. :D

[Chainsaw13]

$125!!!!!! How fast can you buy? Wow!! That is a no brainer buy, whooooeeee.

Yup. $125 is a great price for an EHT sib pick. Color me jelly, Bob. :D

Got added to the group chat in WhatsApp. Now to wait for him to announce when he’s selling them. Glad I stick with the majority of my purchases at this one store. He might go a bit over SRP but it’s usually not too bad. That other store, :fp. With their prices it’s no real wonder why so much HTF stuff is still on their shelves.

[icehog3]

Good connection to have, Bob. I too have been getting most of my stuff from a single store, and its paid dividends there too.

I have a couple old Booker's enroute, one is Kentucky Chew so I decided to open one on hand. Definitely one of my favorite batches.

https://i.imgur.com/2vwRkjR.jpg

[Weelok]

Good connection to have, Bob. I too have been getting most of my stuff from a single store, and its paid dividends there too.

I have a couple old Booker's enroute, one is Kentucky Chew so I decided to open one on hand. Definitely one of my favorite batches.

https://i.imgur.com/2vwRkjR.jpg

Whoo that’s a nice find. How did you manage that? Friends in high places? Or is it ..

https://i.postimg.cc/7YWG7S7j/IMG-0071.jpg (https://postimages.org/)

[icehog3]

Whoo that’s a nice find. How did you manage that? Friends in high places? Or is it ..

https://i.postimg.cc/7YWG7S7j/IMG-0071.jpg (https://postimages.org/)

A little of both, Dave? Or FB bourbon groups, one of those.... :D

[Weelok]

Father’s Day with my brothers and Dad.

Bourbons du jour.

https://i.postimg.cc/BvDBbNjS/IMG-0073.jpg (https://postimages.org/)

[Adriftpanda]

Some old dusty WT Donut my good friend and I polished off.

[stearns]

A friend sent me a sample of the Four Roses father's day release, 16yr 137 proof OESV single barrel. Loads of oak, a nice spearmint behind it, sweet but the right amount of oak which I'm always looking for more in a 4R. Easily the best 4R single barrel I've tried, maybe not life changing but I'd drink the sh*t out of it if I could get them at $200

[icehog3]

A friend sent me a sample of the Four Roses father's day release, 16yr 137 proof OESV single barrel. Loads of oak, a nice spearmint behind it, sweet but the right amount of oak which I'm always looking for more in a 4R. Easily the best 4R single barrel I've tried, maybe not life changing but I'd drink the sh*t out of it if I could get them at $200

Sounds like a great barrel, Ben. :dr

Did you have any of the Al Young 4R that Hugh brought to Shack years back?

[Porch Dweller]

My BIL won a bottle of EHT SB at his 40th HS reunion over the weekend. He's going to wait to open it until October when Steph and I visit for our niece's Police Academy graduation.

[Chainsaw13]

Sounds like your bill is a keeper, James. :D

[icehog3]

Congrats all around, James! :tu

[stearns]

Sounds like a great barrel, Ben. :dr

Did you have any of the Al Young 4R that Hugh brought to Shack years back?

I don't think I was there that year but I've had a chance to try AY before, that and a few other LE's are much more rounded, complex, interesting than this 16yr pick but they're all blends of older stuff so I'm not surprised

[Chainsaw13]

Got the call yesterday the bottle drop was this morning. Reserved my two and picked them up. One for me, one for a friend.

https://i.imgur.com/5CYCR8Kl.jpg

[Weelok]

Got the call yesterday the bottle drop was this morning. Reserved my two and picked them up. One for me, one for a friend.

https://i.imgur.com/5CYCR8Kl.jpg

Nice. Good to be in the know :) that is a killer deal. Haven’t tried the Single Barrel but love the small batch.

[icehog3]

Great pickup, Bob, I hope it's a honey barrel. :dr

One of my favorite batches last night watching TUF.

https://i.imgur.com/SGUNSA1.jpg

[Chainsaw13]

Nice. Good to be in the know :) that is a killer deal. Haven’t tried the Single Barrel but love the small batch.

Yea, all my buying is finally paying off. :D The owner setup a WhatsApp group for his regular bourbon customers to let us know about things early or if he got HTF stuff in. This pick was going out on the floor, but we got the ability to reserve bottles first.

Now gotta figure out when to crack it open.

[Porch Dweller]

Went by my local AFB to see if they had anything interesting. They got a bunch of Still Austin stuff in for the first time, so I grabbed another bottle of the Cask Strength. They also had KC9 Single Barrel Reserve on sale, so I grabbed one of those along with a Larceny Barrel Proof. And they had WT101 1.75L for $32 and you know I'm not passing that up. :D

[Chainsaw13]

Sounds like a productive trip, James. :tu

[icehog3]

Sounds like a productive trip, James. :tu

Indeed! -(P

[Porch Dweller]

Sounds like a productive trip, James. :tu

Yeah, I'm set for the next couple of days. :D

[icehog3]

Yeah, I'm set for the next couple of days. :D

https://i.imgur.com/e9r6ON4.jpg

[Weelok]

Went by my local AFB to see if they had anything interesting. They got a bunch of Still Austin stuff in for the first time, so I grabbed another bottle of the Cask Strength. They also had KC9 Single Barrel Reserve on sale, so I grabbed one of those along with a Larceny Barrel Proof. And they had WT101 1.75L for $32 and you know I'm not passing that up. :D

Good for a week. Nice pick ups!

[Weelok]

https://i.postimg.cc/fTbL0Mnj/IMG-0108.jpg (https://postimages.org/)

That one on left is a Barrel Select. Nor Cal. Trip to Fremont.

[icehog3]

Nice pickups, Dave!

[Chainsaw13]

Was at a friends house for a summer pool party. When I left, decided to do some bourbon hunting before the stores closed. First store had a few bottles of MM 2021 wood finishing series. Whoa! Then I saw the price, $149. No thanks.

Next store had a few bottles that piqued my interest. Murray Hill Club Special Release ($200), but that’s out of my price range. Did snag the Bookers 2024-02 though. :tu

[Weelok]

Did snag the Bookers 2024-02 though. :tu

Oh nice!!!! First I’ve heard of it being out. Let us know your thoughts :)

[Chainsaw13]

Oh nice!!!! First I’ve heard of it being out. Let us know your thoughts :)

Surprised me too. I was told Michigan wouldn’t see Bookers until sometime in June due to a distributor change. So when the shop owner mentioned Bookers, I was expecting the 2024-01.

As for this batch. I really like it. Had two pours. Very much regular Bookers profile, but there’s a sweetness there on both the nose and palate. The finish lasted a long time too. I was trying to take notes on the second pour, but at times I get tunnel vision. I kept picking up a notes that reminded me of a Hersheys bar, and kept focusing on that. So I said screw it and just drank it. :D

[Chainsaw13]

Phone goes off this morning. Group text from the local B&M. ER10 store pick is in. Limit two. Yes please! Went by to pick them up and asked about Bookers and MI distribution. He’s like, I think I have some, want one? Bank account says no, but when do I listen to that?

https://i.imgur.com/E7TVahOl.jpg

Also saw this back out on display. Was able to grab it for a decent price.

https://i.imgur.com/nZydRb5l.jpg

[Weelok]

Surprised me too. I was told Michigan wouldn’t see Bookers until sometime in June due to a distributor change. So when the shop owner mentioned Bookers, I was expecting the 2024-01.

As for this batch. I really like it. Had two pours. Very much regular Bookers profile, but there’s a sweetness there on both the nose and palate. The finish lasted a long time too. I was trying to take notes on the second pour, but at times I get tunnel vision. I kept picking up a notes that reminded me of a Hersheys bar, and kept focusing on that. So I said screw it and just drank it. :D

Sounds excellent. There comes a time where you just like it and it’s time to sit back and enjoy. I’m looking forward to trying this batch!

[Chainsaw13]

Sounds excellent. There comes a time where you just like it and it’s time to sit back and enjoy. I’m looking forward to trying this batch!

I think you’ll like it. As you see from my post today, I bought a backup bottle.

[Weelok]

I think you’ll like it. As you see from my post today, I bought a backup bottle.

Back up bottles are a good sign LOL. I will be looking at preemptive bottle purchases myself hah. Find a good enough price, get three bottles :)

[Weelok]

Phone goes off this morning. Group text from the local B&M. ER10 store pick is in. Limit two. Yes please! Went by to pick them up and asked about Bookers and MI distribution. He’s like, I think I have some, want one? Bank account says no, but when do I listen to that?

https://i.imgur.com/E7TVahOl.jpg

Also saw this back out on display. Was able to grab it for a decent price.

https://i.imgur.com/nZydRb5l.jpg

Very nice!!! And now you can do all of your vices at one. Drink, smoke, golf.

[stearns]

Nice pickups all around! Booker's have started showing up at allocated events the last few months, still something you have to line up for or get lucky on but I swear we had a couple years that we didn't see any batches.

I got a chance to try the new Wild Turkey Triumph, a pretty solid 10 year rye. I won't be a buyer at $275 but decent whiskey nonetheless

[Chainsaw13]

Nice pickups all around! Booker's have started showing up at allocated events the last few months, still something you have to line up for or get lucky on but I swear we had a couple years that we didn't see any batches.

I got a chance to try the new Wild Turkey Triumph, a pretty solid 10 year rye. I won't be a buyer at $275 but decent whiskey nonetheless

I think it was the Mash and Drum on YouTube I saw recently review the WT Triumph. Had the same conclusion as you, Ben.

[Porch Dweller]

Nice pickups all around! Booker's have started showing up at allocated events the last few months, still something you have to line up for or get lucky on but I swear we had a couple years that we didn't see any batches.

I got a chance to try the new Wild Turkey Triumph, a pretty solid 10 year rye. I won't be a buyer at $275 but decent whiskey nonetheless

Yep. My palette isn't nuanced enough to be dropping $275 on a single bottle.

[Mikepd]

Some weekend pickups.

https://i.imgur.com/IPbQN4p.jpeg

Finally a Bookers release that is much better than average! In Florida it's really hit and miss on finding Bookers. Some stores are getting in multiple cases and some stores are getting one bottle per release, and they are gone in a flash! It's actually easier to find Little Book than the quarterly "batch" releases.

Im still undecided on the 2024 Makers, 2023 BEP and Cellar Aged were both better than this bottle!

The Michters BS Rye is 110.2 Proof and I found to be more enjoyable than most of the recent JD Rye BP single barrels.

[Weelok]

Oh nice finds!!!! Summer is starting off to a roar.



Some weekend pickups.

https://i.imgur.com/IPbQN4p.jpeg

Finally a Bookers release that is much better than average! In Florida it's really hit and miss on finding Bookers. Some stores are getting in multiple cases and some stores are getting one bottle per release, and they are gone in a flash! It's actually easier to find Little Book than the quarterly "batch" releases.

Im still undecided on the 2024 Makers, 2023 BEP and Cellar Aged were both better than this bottle!

The Michters BS Rye is 110.2 Proof and I found to be more enjoyable than most of the recent JD Rye BP single barrels.

[icehog3]

Great pickups, Bob and Mike! I've got a 24-02 arriving tomorrow via UPS since it hasn't shown up in Illinois yet.


Yesterday, QT had a colonoscopy in the morning, so needed a ride to get her hair done in the afternoon. 90 minutes to kill so I hit the local liquor store with a bar to try a couple pours. They have the new Maker's Mark wood finished so I tried that. It's a definite buy if I find it at retail. (I liked it better than B EP, Mike). Also tried the Old Forester 1924 (Bottled in Bond). Good, but I won't seek it out. I finished off with a banger, a 8 year purple top Willett single barrel ("Honeymoon Hacienda") at 136 proof. Outstanding.

https://i.imgur.com/gyXCk07.png

https://i.imgur.com/sWQkRsL.png

[Weelok]

Great pickups, Bob and Mike! I've got a 24-02 arriving tomorrow via UPS since it hasn't shown up in Illinois yet.


Yesterday, QT had a colonoscopy in the morning, so needed a ride to get her hair done in the afternoon. 90 minutes to kill so I hit the local liquor store with a bar to try a couple pours. They have the new Maker's Mark wood finished so I tried that. It's a definite buy if I find it at retail. (I liked it better than B EP, Mike). Also tried the Old Forester 1924 (Bottled in Bond). Good, but I won't seek it out. I finished off with a banger, a 8 year purple top Willett single barrel ("Honeymoon Hacienda") at 136 proof. Outstanding.

https://i.imgur.com/gyXCk07.png

https://i.imgur.com/sWQkRsL.png

Nice bar!!! Wow, some great pours you can get. And seriously behind on finding 24-02 Bookers here. Looks like West Coast will lag this release.

[icehog3]

Hope the new Booker's gets out there soon, Dave. :tu

I had to switch out a cable box yesterday, and the office is across the street from a grocery that I've found bottles at from time to time. They had the latest ECBP (B524) at the cheapest price I've found ECBP at in a few years. At %64 it was a no-brainer. At 11 years 2 months and 130.6 proof, it promised to be right in my wheelhouse.

It doesn't have the depth of flavor that a couple of my favorite batches have, but it's still a banger worth the price and more.

https://i.imgur.com/fS6dGD5.jpg

[Porch Dweller]

Nice find, Tom!

[icehog3]

Nice find, Tom!

Honestly, James, I was more surprised by the price than by the find. :banger

[icehog3]

Got my first bottle of the latest Booker's from Kentucky yesterday (24-02, Beam House Batch). Hoping to crack it this weekend.

https://i.imgur.com/okR2J7wm.jpg

Stayed with the Beam/Booker's theme last night with some Little Book 3.

https://i.imgur.com/ed9AnLhm.jpg

[Weelok]

First time at a local whisky bar. Very nice selection. Definitely go back. Fun to try things I don’t have.

https://i.postimg.cc/GmS97PMB/IMG-0120.jpg (https://postimages.org/)

https://i.postimg.cc/SNdn8bCf/IMG-0123.jpg (https://postimages.org/)

https://i.postimg.cc/Dwz8Ppck/IMG-0124.jpg (https://postimages.org/)

https://i.postimg.cc/JhD09ygp/IMG-0125.jpg (https://postimages.org/)

[Weelok]

Got my first bottle of the latest Booker's from Kentucky yesterday (24-02, Beam House Batch). Hoping to crack it this weekend.

https://i.imgur.com/okR2J7wm.jpg

Stayed with the Beam/Booker's theme last night with some Little Book 3.

https://i.imgur.com/ed9AnLhm.jpg

Oh yeah. Can’t wait to hear your thoughts on the new Bookers.

[Beagleone]

Killed this bottle while smoking with friends.

https://photos.smugmug.com/photos/i-qM3Wgn7/0/MZdbkpXzVsrT6CvhshnVhtz6GtrRVF6BVj4nTb2GT/X4/i-qM3Wgn7-X4.jpg

[Weelok]

Killed this bottle while smoking with friends.

https://photos.smugmug.com/photos/i-qM3Wgn7/0/MZdbkpXzVsrT6CvhshnVhtz6GtrRVF6BVj4nTb2GT/X4/i-qM3Wgn7-X4.jpg

Good times and a very nice bourbon.

[icehog3]

Some really nice pours, Dave! Curious to your thoughts on the Barrell New Year (I like it)
:D and Booker's 23-02 Apprentice Batch (my least favorite Booker's ever).:(

[Porch Dweller]

I was out and around and hit a couple of my usual spots. I was looking for some EC single barrel but couldn't find any. But I came home with a Penelope Barrel Strength, Ezra Brooks Cask Strength, Rebel Cask Strength, MM Cask Strength, and Russell's 10 Year.

[Chainsaw13]

Nice haul James. :tu

Revisited my JDSBBP bottles (regular and rye) this afternoon while watching soccer. Man I love both of them. But that rye, wow.

[Weelok]

Some really nice pours, Dave! Curious to your thoughts on the Barrell New Year (I like it)
:D and Booker's 23-02 Apprentice Batch (my least favorite Booker's ever).:(

I’m with you on Apprentices Batch. It had more heat and less flavor than it should have had in my opinion. It lacked the sweetness I would have preferred to balance the heat. Seems out of balance on the blend. This batch probably needs a bit of ice and if I try it again, it will be over ice.

The Barrell New Year was definitely a star along with the Basil Hayden.

I am becoming a big fan of Barrell.

[icehog3]

I was out and around and hit a couple of my usual spots. I was looking for some EC single barrel but couldn't find any. But I came home with a Penelope Barrel Strength, Ezra Brooks Cask Strength, Rebel Cask Strength, MM Cask Strength, and Russell's 10 Year.

Some solid picks there, James!

Nice haul James. :tu

Revisited my JDSBBP bottles (regular and rye) this afternoon while watching soccer. Man I love both of them. But that rye, wow.

I've got a new JDSBBP pick coming in today, absolutely love this stuff, Bob.

I’m with you on Apprentices Batch. It had more heat and less flavor than it should have had in my opinion. It lacked the sweetness I would have preferred to balance the heat. Seems out of balance on the blend. This batch probably needs a bit of ice and if I try it again, it will be over ice.

The Barrell New Year was definitely a star along with the Basil Hayden.

I am becoming a big fan of Barrell.

Yeah Dave, that Apprentice was pure pepper, Heat without flavor.

But those Barrell blends. Lotsa great stuff for sure.

[Chainsaw13]

Siri, remind me to never offer Dave or Tom a pour of the Apprentice Batch should either end up in SEMI. Definitely remind me to hide my backup bottle. :D

[Weelok]

Siri, remind me to never offer Dave or Tom a pour of the Apprentice Batch should either end up in SEMI. Definitely remind me to hide my backup bottle. :D

Hahahaha well, I will bring my Little Book Ch 7 and your backup 24-02 and we will drink too much until they all taste the same LOL!

[icehog3]

Get a bunch of Little Book 7 and 24-02 in me, I might think Apprentice is ok. ;) :lr

Opened up the Pinhook honoring Issac Murphy this weekend. Sweet and complex, I like it.

https://i.imgur.com/hrOWsu5.jpg

[icehog3]

Picked up a couple new single barrels. First is a JD Barrel Proof at 128.1 from Grand Cathedral Liquors.

https://i.imgur.com/T4p4e1h.jpg

And a Pinhook at 116 proof from El Cerritos in Cali

https://i.imgur.com/BKwCl8M.jpg

[Weelok]

This Little Booker Ch 7 just rings my beeeelllllel. Ring my bell.

Already drank one bottle and spares are hard to find.


https://i.postimg.cc/Vv2TxcfB/IMG-0215.jpg (https://postimages.org/)

[icehog3]

Dave, that Chapter 7 sounds interesting in that it has all 6 previous releases in the mix. I'll have to see if my store in Marengo has an open bottle.

Recent pickups at retail or less were Barrell 2021 New Year's and a Weller Full Proof.

https://i.imgur.com/w6kXKN6.jpg

[Porch Dweller]

I found a bottle of Widow Jane 10 for a reasonable price, finally. The queue's grown, so it may be a bit before I open it. 99 problems but a whisky queue ain't one. :D

[Chainsaw13]

I’ve slowed my buying. Working on killing some bottles before I start restocking. Finished a Barrel Foundation yesterday. It’s decent, but not sure I’ll buy again anytime soon.

[Weelok]

Hooo eeeee a Weller Full Proof. Great bourbon and Barrell, well, I have become a fan.

Widow Jane is on my try list. Going to a Whisky Lounge next week and hope to try that along with more Barrell.

[Porch Dweller]

I had some JD SB Barrel Proof last night. I don't know if there's currently another whiskey out there that I enjoy the aroma of more than it.

[icehog3]

I had some JD SB Barrel Proof last night. I don't know if there's currently another whiskey out there that I enjoy the aroma of more than it.

So solid in every way, James...I had a pour last night of a store pick.

https://i.imgur.com/WaZivqq.jpg

[Chainsaw13]

Stopped by my local store to see if they had anything new. The Four Roses store pick is in, the owner is still figuring out when he’s going to release it. Snagged one of their Woodenville Rye picks. Marked down from $80 to $50. Got to talking with the owner about the Woodenville Moscatel finished. He hadn’t tried it yet, so told him I’d bring him a sample. In exchange he gives me a sample of OF 13 year brown label. :dr

[Porch Dweller]

Stopped in to one of my less-frequented B&Ms. They didn't have anything great, but I grabbed a Buffalo Trace and a Dickel BIB.

[icehog3]

Win for you, Bob! :tu Did he tell you which recipe and tier the FR was?

James, always good to have those on hand. :tu

[icehog3]

The past couple years I've been seeing a lot of single barrel picks locally from a Wisconsin distillery, Dancing Goat. When I saw a West coast guy whose picks I've enjoyed had picked an 8 year MGP barrel, I ordered one up. It arrived today, I'll probably open it this weekend.

https://i.imgur.com/FESS034m.jpg

[stearns]

Nice pickup! Jay doesn't pick bad barrels, and he sure has a lot of them set aside at Dancing Goat. The releases are just gonna get better and better

[Chainsaw13]

Win for you, Bob! :tu Did he tell you which recipe and tier the FR was?


No, unfortunately. I believe I’m getting the sample second hand. He just told me it spent 13 years in the barrel, then another 12 in a stainless cask before bottling.

[icehog3]

Nice pickup! Jay doesn't pick bad barrels, and he sure has a lot of them set aside at Dancing Goat. The releases are just gonna get better and better

I've had good luck with several of jay's picks too, Ben. Good to hear his standing with DG. :tu

No, unfortunately. I believe I’m getting the sample second hand. He just told me it spent 13 years in the barrel, then another 12 in a stainless cask before bottling.

The 13 year age itself is crazy, but I don't understand Bob....12 more years in a stainless cask? Never heard of that. :confused:

I went to Binny's to pick up something for QT. New Maker's Mark picks were $15 off. At under $50, it was a no-brainer.

https://i.imgur.com/bKB9D6K.jpg

[Chainsaw13]

The 13 year age itself is crazy, but I don't understand Bob....12 more years in a stainless cask? Never heard of that. :confused:


Makers did something similar with their Cellar Aged. I’ve been searching the web for any info if what I was told was true, but haven’t found anything. Maybe Ben knows?

Either way, it was fantastic. Drank it this afternoon. So smooth. Wish I had more.

[icehog3]

Makers did something similar with their Cellar Aged. I’ve been searching the web for any info if what I was told was true, but haven’t found anything. Maybe Ben knows?

Either way, it was fantastic. Drank it this afternoon. So smooth. Wish I had more.

Sounds delicious, Bob, nice. :tu

MM cellared 12 year bourbon for their Cellar Aged, but I believe it was still oak barrels and not anything metallic?

[Chainsaw13]

Sounds delicious, Bob, nice. :tu

MM cellared 12 year bourbon for their Cellar Aged, but I believe it was still oak barrels and not anything metallic?

That’s right about the Cellar Aged. My bad.

[stearns]

The 13 year age itself is crazy, but I don't understand Bob....12 more years in a stainless cask? Never heard of that. :confused:

Allow me to translate!

Bob was talking about the Old Fitz, not the Four Roses. The Old Fitz was the 25yr anni bottle, distilled right after HH took over Bernheim? Fact check me. After 13 years they put it in a tank then bottled for this anniversary thing. I'd kill to try it, but not willing to pay the ~$900 they're going for on secondary. Glad you got a chance!

[Chainsaw13]

Allow me to translate!

Bob was talking about the Old Fitz, not the Four Roses. The Old Fitz was the 25yr anni bottle, distilled right after HH took over Bernheim? Fact check me. After 13 years they put it in a tank then bottled for this anniversary thing. I'd kill to try it, but not willing to pay the ~$900 they're going for on secondary. Glad you got a chance!

Thank you Ben, that makes more sense. Whoever gave the sample to the owner, wrote on the bottle with marker that has partially worn off. Thus why it’s easy to confuse Old Forester for Old Fitz.

[Chainsaw13]

Stopped by my local store. JDSBBP Rye store pick. Ahh…yup! Drinking my third ~1oz pour. Delicious. How JD makes these drink so easy for such a high proof (131.6 in this case) is amazing.

[icehog3]

Stopped by my local store. JDSBBP Rye store pick. Ahh…yup! Drinking my third ~1oz pour. Delicious. How JD makes these drink so easy for such a high proof (131.6 in this case) is amazing.

I think most of them drink smoother than their much lower proof JD counterparts, Bob, and with much more depth of flavor. I pick them up whenever I see a store pick, have grabbed a few off RB as well.

[icehog3]

Little Kentucky Owl batch 12 last night watching TUF.

https://i.imgur.com/2pUBx5Gm.jpg

[Beagleone]

I grabbed these today at a new store. They were a bit more than I like to pay for Stagg Jr., but well below secondary. I would have had a case had I gotten there five minutes sooner.

https://photos.smugmug.com/photos/i-jVSwv7N/0/LmZwdrgM4MV3dWNCxSPWwpKBzP6MxT7gcN9kzGXs7/X3/i-jVSwv7N-X3.jpg

[icehog3]

Great pickup, Tony!

THEY'RE HUGE!!

[Porch Dweller]

:ro

[Weelok]

I grabbed these today at a new store. They were a bit more than I like to pay for Stagg Jr., but well below secondary. I would have had a case had I gotten there five minutes sooner.

https://photos.smugmug.com/photos/i-jVSwv7N/0/LmZwdrgM4MV3dWNCxSPWwpKBzP6MxT7gcN9kzGXs7/X3/i-jVSwv7N-X3.jpg

Nice!!!!! Three finds like that deserve a big picture.

[Porch Dweller]

I can't remember the last time I've seen a bottle of Stagg on the shelves, let alone three.

[stearns]

Nice grab on the Stagg picks! I've been doing good about holding back on buying but got hit with too many temptations over the weekend, first with an allocated drop at our small store where they had Old Fitz 10, a few recent Staggs, all the usual buffalo trace stuff as well as a range of tequilas and scotches. They let me grab two so I went with the Old Fitz and a little tequila, a Fortaleza Reposado Single Barrel from 2022. The weekend continued with a few unexpected old turkey bottles that I still need to go and pick up, but I swear after these I'm done :al

[jledou]

The weekend continued with a few unexpected old turkey bottles that I still need to go and pick up, but I swear after these I'm done :al


You are among friends ... you don't have to lie :r

We took a trip to Nashville and stopped in at Nashville Barrel Company. Slow afternoon so we were able to try a few bottles from under the bar. Ended up ordering a couple and shipped to the house. Included a 33 year old Canadian whisky at 149 proof. By far the best thing we tasted and reasonable at $200 for a bottle.

[icehog3]

Ben, like Jay said, quit frontin'. :lr

Jay, I like a lot of NBC stuff. The Hazmat Canadian whiskey sounds amazing.

[Porch Dweller]

Nice grab on the Stagg picks! I've been doing good about holding back on buying but got hit with too many temptations over the weekend, first with an allocated drop at our small store where they had Old Fitz 10, a few recent Staggs, all the usual buffalo trace stuff as well as a range of tequilas and scotches. They let me grab two so I went with the Old Fitz and a little tequila, a Fortaleza Reposado Single Barrel from 2022. The weekend continued with a few unexpected old turkey bottles that I still need to go and pick up, but I swear after these I'm done :al

https://external-content.duckduckgo.com/iu/?u=https%3A%2F%2Fmedia2.giphy.com%2Fmedia%2FYQ5bm1 pbOFnSE6jhwI%2Fgiphy.gif&f=1&nofb=1&ipt=d7f55cef2247d0ac4b92fce753f711ad0e7ad7df6e77b4 d9b457fee5794fb6e1&ipo=images

[Brian D.]

The weekend continued with a few unexpected old turkey bottles that I still need to go and pick up, but I swear after these I'm done :al

Oh puh--LEEZE! I was helping a friend do a quick inventory of his bottles recently. He's 70+ years old and still in "acquiring" mode. Asked him one question: "Is this stuff addressed in your will? There's going to be some booze to fight over otherwise."

Maybe my query was a little too direct, because there was a kinda long pause in the conversation.

[stearns]

I mean... you make a great point. We've seen it happen in the cigar world, a big collector passes away and people start trying to lowball the family for their collection. I'm sure it happens with whiskey as well. I don't have a serious enough collection of either but do have spreadsheets for cigars and spirits to help sift through what's there if it was ever needed

[Beagleone]

A good word of advice: have someone you trust to take care of the liquidation of your inventory and give the money to your family. This is something James, John and I have discussed before. Whether is is somebody low balling the inventory, or your family just getting rid of it because they don't know the actual value, it is better to have someone you trust to do it, along with having an inventory sheet to work off of.

[Weelok]

When I die, get your asses up here for all the booze you can drink and cigars you can smoke. Party on!!!!!!!

https://i.postimg.cc/NFhDj6Zf/IMG-0243.jpg (https://postimages.org/)

2 x 24-01
1 x 23-03

[icehog3]

Don't threaten us with a good time, Dave! :D

Well, all except that dying part..... ;s

[Chainsaw13]

Stopped by my B&M this morning. Guess these finally made it to Michigan.

https://i.imgur.com/QvtwwL3l.jpg

[icehog3]

I've never had Shenks, Bob, curious to hear your thoughts.

Good day here too.

https://i.imgur.com/961gh0Qm.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/HziXpZ6m.jpg

[Chainsaw13]

I really enjoyed it Tom. Especially for the first pours from the bottle. Only like 92 proof, but packs a lot of flavor.

[icehog3]

I really enjoyed it Tom. Especially for the first pours from the bottle. Only like 92 proof, but packs a lot of flavor.

Nice! :banger

[Weelok]

I've never had Shenks, Bob, curious to hear your thoughts.

Good day here too.

https://i.imgur.com/961gh0Qm.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/HziXpZ6m.jpg

Ooohh La La! Still looking for 24-02. Rather elusive on the West Coast.

[icehog3]

Ooohh La La! Still looking for 24-02. Rather elusive on the West Coast.

First and only store I've seen it in Illinois, Dave.

Had some of the 24-01 last night.

https://i.imgur.com/qSktAmpm.jpg

[stearns]

Stopped by my B&M this morning. Guess these finally made it to Michigan.

Always solid, heard great things about the 2024 :tu

Went over to a friends house to crack open some wild turkey decanters, I went with one from 1972 that ended up being one of the darkest bourbon's I've seen but still clear, we gave it a taste and it's impressive, at first it was a little bitter in the back but a few minutes in the glass opened up to a world of flavors from oak to fruit salad to floral bouquet. He then opened one from the 80's and it was totally different, coated the tongue in juicy fruit gum. Decanters are always a gamble, I got a bad one once, but these were not bad ones :dr

[icehog3]

Nice, Ben! :tu

Johnny came bearing gifts! We already cracked the Alberta Premium Rye.

https://i.imgur.com/BQxCe4Bm.jpg

[SNKBYT]

had this in AZ back in 11/22/2023

[shark]

had this in AZ back in 11/22/2023


https://i.imgur.com/aWvzdlj.jpeg

[Weelok]

https://i.imgur.com/aWvzdlj.jpeg

Nice!!! That is generally unobtainable. Very cool.

[stearns]

Ok, so remember that thing about not buying any more whiskey? :r

First of two local groups got their Wild Turkey 101 Rye picks in, I hate the price ($80) but there are so few out there I figure I owe it to myself to at least buy one. I'll open it up at some point and see how it fares, I hear they can be hit or miss

[Chainsaw13]

I know the feeling Ben. Keep telling myself I won’t buy anything more, then I come home with a new bottle.

My friend was in Gatlinburg over the weekend. Sent me a pic of a bottle he bought. Willet Pot Still. :fp I’ve never had it. Is it as bad as people online make it out to be?

[Beagleone]

Got the call on Friday for the RR15. Picked up the EHT SmB and MM yesterday.

https://photos.smugmug.com/photos/i-9Ks6dfL/0/MGGmbPwBw6GVT9DcD8DVWkhZtKdv4QGR4KSqCvZmK/X3/i-9Ks6dfL-X3.jpg

[icehog3]

Nice pickup on the RR15, Tony.

Some amazing bottles at Shack, I'll post some pics later tonight or tomorrow.

[Porch Dweller]

Tried some Widow Jane 10. It's quite tasty.

[icehog3]

Some amazing bottles at Shack, I'll post some pics later tonight or tomorrow.

Some of the craziness at Shack, due mostly to Hugh, Gary, Mike (and Dave's stash from previous Shacks). Many thanks to High and Mike for sending a couple great bottles home with me.

Al Young Four Roses 50th

https://i.imgur.com/4E4uHANm.jpg

King of Kentucky single barrel

https://i.imgur.com/eAC1sI2m.jpg

Parker Double Barreled

https://i.imgur.com/88snvUem.jpg

Old Stitzel Weller Old Fitzgerald, bottled in 1969.

https://i.imgur.com/PsUjGK8m.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/AMJIDmcm.jpg

An amazing barrel pick by a private group, they took a barrel from Beam of Booker's and finished it in a Four Roses tasted barrel for 197 days. It tastes like toasted Booker's and is delicious.

https://i.imgur.com/uSqArLem.jpg

Even had a "tater" Booker's label.

https://i.imgur.com/0OQ22ZHm.jpg

Elijah Criag Barrel Proof batch 3 (2014), hazmat at 140 proof.


https://i.imgur.com/L43oJvam.jpg

[stearns]

Looks like a fun time

:sad

[icehog3]

Looks like a fun time

:sad

You were spoken of during the bourbon tastings. We missed you, Ben.

[Porch Dweller]

Wow, what a selection!

[Chainsaw13]

Good lord, that’s some amazing bottles.

[Weelok]

Whooo eee. Good thing you took pictures otherwise be hard to remember anything after that sampling.

Fun!

[icehog3]

Whooo eee. Good thing you took pictures otherwise be hard to remember anything after that sampling.

Fun!

:lr ;)

[Chainsaw13]

Right place, right time. Went to dinner with friends at a cool restaurant. Across the lot is a decent party store that had an OF single barrel pick I wanted to maybe snag. They also do surprise bottle drops. Just so happened I walked in right after they setup the bottles. Weller 12 & SR, Blantons and Blantons Gold, Bookers 24-02, ER, Caribou, 4 Roses Small Batch SE 2024. Limit one bottle total. Went with the Weller 12. Almost had my buddy snag the 4R, but it was $300.

https://i.imgur.com/SwKDGdzl.jpeg

[Weelok]

Right place, right time. Went to dinner with friends at a cool restaurant. Across the lot is a decent party store that had an OF single barrel pick I wanted to maybe snag. They also do surprise bottle drops. Just so happened I walked in right after they setup the bottles. Weller 12 & SR, Blantons and Blantons Gold, Bookers 24-02, ER, Caribou, 4 Roses Small Batch SE 2024. Limit one bottle total. Went with the Weller 12. Almost had my buddy snag the 4R, but it was $300.

https://i.imgur.com/SwKDGdzl.jpeg

Man, have to fly to Florida to pick up rare and hard d to find bourbons.

[Mikepd]

Man, have to fly to Florida to pick up rare and hard d to find bourbons.

I can guarantee that Weller 12 didn't come from Florida! Only one family chain, ABC FWS, sells Weller in Florida, and they don't do drops.

[icehog3]

Must be Weller 12 week, I snagged one Tuesday at Binny's.

https://i.imgur.com/xOKv5y6m.jpg

[Porch Dweller]

Was over near Mobile, so stopped in at a place I'd never been to. They had Blanton's for $150 and regular Buffalo Trace for $80. Nope. I can get BT for damned near half that close to home.

[Mikepd]

Looks like MM Cellar Aged 2024 has hit the shelves, a blend of 12 and 13 year old bourbons. I wonder if it's "sister barrels" to last years batch of 11 and 12 year old bourbons, just with another year of age, or a totally different batch blend.

[Weelok]

No Weller here but I did go and pick these up. Love Ch 7 and have read good things about 8. We will see.

https://i.postimg.cc/wjvkvvsW/IMG-0285.jpg (https://postimages.org/)

[icehog3]

Mike, I wasn't impressed with the last MMCA, I would only be a buyer at retail.

Dave, hope the LBs are to your liking.

Friday's drop at Binny's, 1 per customer:

https://i.imgur.com/gVylrXLm.jpg

[Porch Dweller]

My local base had Booker's 7 on sale so I grabbed a bottle, along with some Wild Turkey Rare Breed.

[icehog3]

My local base had Booker's 7 on sale so I grabbed a bottle, along with some Wild Turkey Rare Breed.

Little Book 7, James?

[Chainsaw13]

I’m guessing he meant Bakers 7.

[Porch Dweller]

I’m guessing he meant Bakers 7.

DOH!!! That's the one. That's what I get for PBC...Posting Before Coffee.

[icehog3]

Hope the Baker's 7 is good to you!

[icehog3]

One of the best pours I've had this year, basically Toasted Booker's. Thank you again Mikepd.

https://i.imgur.com/V7zgQov.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/W1YWcvz.jpg

[Porch Dweller]

Opened up an Ezra Brooks Cask Strength last night. I enjoy this one.

[Chainsaw13]

Stopped by Total Wine on my way out to my friends cottage yesterday. Surprised to see 4 Roses SiBBP OESO on the center table. They also had EC B524, but passed for now.

[Porch Dweller]

I had some Still Austin Cask Strength last night. I'm really enjoying this.

[Mikepd]

One of the best pours I've had this year, basically Toasted Booker's. Thank you again Mikepd.

https://i.imgur.com/V7zgQov.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/W1YWcvz.jpg

Really happy I got to share that pick with you!!

[Chainsaw13]

Well, my afternoon is ruined. Finally remembered to look up if there’s any correlation between my low alcohol tolerance and a blood disorder I have. Really didn’t find much about that. But basically everything I read said to not drink alcohol at all. Can accelerate cirrhosis of the liver. Wish I’d known this two years ago before I bought all these bottles.

[Weelok]

Well, my afternoon is ruined. Finally remembered to look up if there’s any correlation between my low alcohol tolerance and a blood disorder I have. Really didn’t find much about that. But basically everything I read said to not drink alcohol at all. Can accelerate cirrhosis of the liver. Wish I’d known this two years ago before I bought all these bottles.

Drink slower and less, enjoy more. Experts are probably right but if I have to listen to a more campaigning adds think maybe my mental health requires me to drink and smoke more.

Or go insane but live like a Buddhist monk in a monetary. No talking, no internet, just me, my broom, and saving insect lives. All I need now is a good bourbon and cigars.

[Chainsaw13]

I’m waiting to hear back from my doc to see what she says. Hopefully I can still enjoy a pour every now and then.

[icehog3]

Bob, I am so sorry to hear this for multiple reasons.

That's why I don't go to doctors, they try to tell me stuff. ;)

[Beagleone]

Sorry to hear that Bob, but please take care of yourself. I agree with Dave: drink less alcohol, enjoy more. Do drink more water, eat healthier, live longer. Your liver can be healed, but it takes time.

[Chainsaw13]

Sorry to hear that Bob, but please take care of yourself. I agree with Dave: drink less alcohol, enjoy more. Do drink more water, eat healthier, live longer. Your liver can be healed, but it takes time.

Thanks. I’m definitely trying. Could just be me overreacting too.

[jledou]

Sorry to hear that Bob, hopefully you find a nice middle ground and still get to enjoy a few of those bottles from time to time.

[icehog3]

Overpaid, but I had to have one.

https://i.imgur.com/UxFcGNH.png

[big a]

What’s the story on those Tom? What’s driving the higher price compared to others? Older juice?

[Weelok]

Overpaid, but I had to have one.

https://i.imgur.com/UxFcGNH.png

Whoa!!!!!!! That’s new!!! Nice!

[icehog3]

What’s the story on those Tom? What’s driving the higher price compared to others? Older juice?

The anticipated scarcity and the old juice put down my Booker are probably the biggest factors. Andrew. Secondary dropped about 30% by day 3, but you'll still pay close to double MSRP unless you're lucky enough to have a store put one aside for you or made it to the Beam gift shop while they were still there.

Now to hunt down The Reserves.....

[icehog3]

Opened the latest Binny's EC Private Barrel last night. It's good, nothing mind blowing.

https://i.imgur.com/UlqrFj4m.jpg

[Chainsaw13]

Since I am limiting myself to a couple pours a week, might as well drink the good stuff. Had a healthy pour of Weller Antique 107.

[icehog3]

Makes sense to me, Bob. Cheers Brother.

[stearns]

Now to hunt down The Reserves.....

This is what I thought you were going to come in here and post. A friend picked one up last week and said it's better than any Booker's batch he's tried, don't know how it compares to other special releases but I'm sure buying one if I were to get the chance

[icehog3]

This is what I thought you were going to come in here and post. A friend picked one up last week and said it's better than any Booker's batch he's tried, don't know how it compares to other special releases but I'm sure buying one if I were to get the chance

Yup, I'll trade or do secondary to make sure I get one or two, Ben.

I've got a 4 oz. sample of the Infinite coming, so I'll be able to keep that bottle intact for now.

[Black Coral]

2 pours of handy one pour of George t stagg and now at ball game in San Francisco good afternoon

[icehog3]

Sounds great, John!

Cracked an El Cerrito Pinhook single barrel, she's a banger! :banger:

https://i.imgur.com/km2olNL.jpg

[Black Coral]

Well French laundry was delicious and has a two ounce pour of larue to finish the evening with a cigar

[icehog3]

Well French laundry was delicious and has a two ounce pour of larue to finish the evening with a cigar

Nice! :noon

Kentucky Chew was my Sunday pour:

https://i.imgur.com/61HHnecm.png

[Weelok]

https://i.postimg.cc/Bb8D8GLd/IMG-0339.jpg (https://postimages.org/)

https://i.postimg.cc/L5rPL0jh/IMG-0340.jpg (https://postimages.org/)

[icehog3]

Nice pickup, Dave. :al

I picked up a couple of samples of the Little Book Infinite Blend so I could keep my bottle i tact for now.

It's already my favorite of the Little Books, and would be Top 3 Booker's of it were a Booker's release.

https://i.imgur.com/X23aBJg.jpg

[Beagleone]

Last week, one of the regional chain stores had a few bottles of Weller Millennium for select clients. Retail was around $7500, and corporate had the regional managers making calls to those on the list with a high number of points. None of my bourbon group of friends took the offer for the bottle allocated for DFW. At one point, corporate gave up and put it on the shelf at the regional store in Dallas, at a slightly higher shelf price. It sold within 10 minutes of the doors opening on Saturday. I considered going for it, but decided not to after talking to Black Coral, and basically due to not knowing how it tasted and that the value on secondary is about the same as MSRP, at least in some of the bourbon groups I am in.

[stearns]

Last week, one of the regional chain stores had a few bottles of Weller Millennium for select clients. Retail was around $7500, and corporate had the regional managers making calls to those on the list with a high number of points. None of my bourbon group of friends took the offer for the bottle allocated for DFW. At one point, corporate gave up and put it on the shelf at the regional store in Dallas, at a slightly higher shelf price. It sold within 10 minutes of the doors opening on Saturday. I considered going for it, but decided not to after talking to Black Coral, and basically due to not knowing how it tasted and that the value on secondary is about the same as MSRP, at least in some of the bourbon groups I am in.

A friend tried it and said it tasted almost identical to Pappy 23, going into it with that general expectation sure makes it hard to justify the cost. But like they say, gotta catch em all :noon:noon

[Porch Dweller]

Was on base this morning and they had one bottle of JD SBBP, so I grabbed it. They also had Knob Creek 9 SBR on sale; can't pass that up.

[icehog3]

Was on base this morning and they had one bottle of JD SBBP, so I grabbed it. They also had Knob Creek 9 SBR on sale; can't pass that up.

Love the JD SBBP, James, always looking for a good single barrel pick.

[stearns]

Give me some JD BP Rye any day and thrice on Sundays and I'll be happy. No idea how they manage to make rye that good :dr

[icehog3]

Give me some JD BP Rye any day and thrice on Sundays and I'll be happy. No idea how they manage to make rye that good :dr

I wonder if I had a bad sample, Ben, or I'm just not much of a rye guy anymore, but the one I tried did nada for me. I guess I need to give one another shot.

[Porch Dweller]

Give me some JD BP Rye any day and thrice on Sundays and I'll be happy. No idea how they manage to make rye that good :dr

I haven't tried it yet. I passed on a bottle a few months back and of course that's the last time I've seen it.

[Mikepd]

I wonder if I had a bad sample, Ben, or I'm just not much of a rye guy anymore, but the one I tried did nada for me. I guess I need to give one another shot.

That bottle I brought to Shack in 2023 was meh at best, and as Tom said, he thought it was not a good product. I've tried a few since different pours since from different barrels and I thought they ranged from alright to good, but it hasn't been too high on my list to pick up a bottle. Guess I should give it a try again.

Ben, which would you pick, JD SiB BP Rye (125+ proof) or Michters Barrel Strength Rye (107-115 proof)?

[icehog3]

Stopped in Binny's for the Wednesday drop. Choice of 1 from Weller SR, EH Taylor Small Batch, 1792 Sweet Wheat and 1792 Aged Twelve Years. Just finished a Sweet Wheat recently, so chose the 12 Year. First pour was good, but nothing like some of their Full Proof picks I have had.

https://i.imgur.com/03iyIENm.jpg

[stearns]

I've only had a few JDBPR barrels but thought they were all great, given the choice of one at random vs a Michters BSR (if they were both priced like JD) I'd probably take the Michters because I have some great memories drinking that bottle and it's also really friggin good, but there are definitely some Jack Rye picks I've had that I'd take over the Michters

Now if only we could go back to 2020 and buy more of that first JD Rye LE, I didn't think I liked rye until I tried that. I'm still only so-so on rye as a category but have learned that there is so much variation and some can hit me in the right spot. Still haven't found a 95/5 that blew my socks off, I just don't think that one is for me

[icehog3]

I used to really dig the ryes a few years back, Ben. Now older Whistlepig barrels are about the only ryes I drink regularly now.

Received my Booker's The Reserves yesterday. Not quite as an intriguing a story as the Little Book Infinite Blend's, but 8 to 14 year Booker's barrels? I'll take it. :dr :D

https://i.imgur.com/BvUp5Zj.jpg

[stearns]

Dangit, I really want one of those. Hope prices come down a little when they start going out to other states

[Weelok]

I used to really dig the ryes a few years back, Ben. Now older Whistlepig barrels are about the only ryes I drink regularly now.

Received my Booker's The Reserves yesterday. Not quite as an intriguing a story as the Little Book Infinite Blend's, but 8 to 14 year Booker's barrels? I'll take it. :dr :D

https://i.imgur.com/BvUp5Zj.jpg

Whoooo man, your finding some tasty bourbons.

[icehog3]

Whoooo man, your finding some tasty bourbons.

I have, Dave, I feel really fortunate to have the Booker's and Little Book special releases as Booker's is my jam.

[Weelok]

Some replacement bottles.

https://i.postimg.cc/mrm3F3Gr/IMG-0354.jpg (https://postimages.org/)

[icehog3]

Some replacement bottles.

https://i.postimg.cc/mrm3F3Gr/IMG-0354.jpg (https://postimages.org/)

Good stuff, Dave! :banger

[Chainsaw13]

So got double confirmation from my other doc I don’t have to give up drinking completely. A couple drinks a week is fine. That means my collection should last me the rest of my life. I’ll only buy the occasional bottle if something catches my attention.

[Porch Dweller]

So got double confirmation from my other doc I don’t have to give up drinking completely. A couple drinks a week is fine. That means my collection should last me the rest of my life. I’ll only buy the occasional bottle if something catches my attention.

Part-good news is better than no good news!

[stearns]

So got double confirmation from my other doc I don’t have to give up drinking completely. A couple drinks a week is fine. That means my collection should last me the rest of my life. I’ll only buy the occasional bottle if something catches my attention.

Good news considering the alternative. Got any bars near you with a decent selection? Sounds like you got doctor's orders to buy off the top shelf only :noon

[Weelok]

So got double confirmation from my other doc I don’t have to give up drinking completely. A couple drinks a week is fine. That means my collection should last me the rest of my life. I’ll only buy the occasional bottle if something catches my attention.

Great news. Go Top Shelf!!!!!

[Chainsaw13]

Part-good news is better than no good news!

Good news considering the alternative. Got any bars near you with a decent selection? Sounds like you got doctor's orders to buy off the top shelf only :noon

Great news. Go Top Shelf!!!!!

Thanks guys, that’s the way I took the news too. :D

Ben, there is one place that does have a really nice selection. Expensive but nice.

[icehog3]

I agree with James, Ben and Dave. Good news for sure, Bob. You can't waste your pours on the mediocre stuff now, all good stuff. :tu :D

[icehog3]

Picked up a new Jack Daniels Barrel Proof single barrel pick. They're either good or great, never had a bad one. I celebrated with a pour of Jack Daniels 10 Year.

https://i.imgur.com/hqMzGgQ.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/NoRaTdE.jpg

[Chainsaw13]

Tom, have you bought many of the R/bourbon picks? Just wondering if they’re good enough to cover the extra cost of shipping.

[icehog3]

Tom, have you bought many of the R/bourbon picks? Just wondering if they’re good enough to cover the extra cost of shipping.

This is my first, Bob. I wasn't planning to open it for a couple weeks, but I'll let you know once I crack it. :tu

[icehog3]

Another good acquisition day, a got a bottle of Stagg Jr. Batch 15 in a trade, and my girl at my local called to say she put aside another bottle of Booker's Reserve for me at retail.

https://i.imgur.com/dro0557.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/KKYg72n.jpg

[stearns]

Nice grabs Tom!

Tom, have you bought many of the R/bourbon picks? Just wondering if they’re good enough to cover the extra cost of shipping.

Jay doesn't pick bad barrels :tu

[icehog3]

Nice grabs Tom!



Jay doesn't pick bad barrels :tu

Is the /R a Jay West pick, Ben?

If it is, then actually I have had several, Bob, all stellar. :tu

[stearns]

It is! Jay picks everything for R/Bourbon with very few exceptions, he also picks everything for aficionados group (non bourbon spirits). He does spirits full time but doesn't make any money off the picks, those are just for fun

[icehog3]

It is! Jay picks everything for R/Bourbon with very few exceptions, he also picks everything for aficionados group (non bourbon spirits). He does spirits full time but doesn't make any money off the picks, those are just for fun

I just got a lot more excited about my JD pick...thanks Ben! :D

Had to pick up some groceries and the supermarket had Jimmy Russell's Wild Turkey 70th Anniversary Release. 8 years and 100m proof. For $42 I figured it was worth a shot.


https://i.imgur.com/sVrajie.jpg

[Weelok]

Had to pick up some groceries and the supermarket had Jimmy Russell's Wild Turkey 70th Anniversary Release. 8 years and 100m proof. For $42 I figured it was worth a shot.


Maybe even worth 5 or 6 shots. Just saying.

[icehog3]

Maybe even worth 5 or 6 shots. Just saying.

:noon

I opened it, it's ok. Worth $42.50 even. -(P

https://i.imgur.com/kkAoXDN.jpg

[Chainsaw13]

Hmm…my local B&M is releasing their 4R OBSQ pick tomorrow. Tasting notes are “If Faygo Rock & Rye and 4R has a 125 proof baby”. Might have to stop by and snag a bottle.

[stearns]

:noon

I opened it, it's ok. Worth $42.50 even. -(P

Hoping to get my hands on a couple but had to laugh when they were first going for $200 on secondary, they've come down but they also haven't hit stores here yet so I'm expecting to get them at under $50. Supposedly there was over 10x more of these made than any other turkey LE ever so they are supposed to be pretty attainable

Hmm…my local B&M is releasing their 4R OBSQ pick tomorrow. Tasting notes are “If Faygo Rock & Rye and 4R has a 125 proof baby”. Might have to stop by and snag a bottle.

Love me some OBSQ, I've tasted through the recipes blind twice with different sets of barrels and that recipe won both times :dr

[icehog3]

I think the grocery store had a couple more, Ben, if you want me to try and grab one. Otherwise I might just grab anything left and offer 'em for a c-note on FB. :lr

Bob, I've only bit on the 4R is they're tier 4 or higher, now that they seem to be fetching $105-115 apiece.

Cracked my MM Heart Release last night. Not my favorite wood finished release by MM. Hoping it opens up a little with time.

https://i.imgur.com/VnpX4ib.jpg

[Chainsaw13]

Still on the fence about that 4R pick. Tom, it’s from tier 6 of the rickhouse. Now that I’m having to regulate my intake, I’m not apt to just go hunting. Plus I already have two other OBSQ picks.

[Porch Dweller]

I had a couple of pours of Penelope Barrel Strength tonight. I'm really starting to enjoy this one.

[icehog3]

Still on the fence about that 4R pick. Tom, it’s from tier 6 of the rickhouse. Now that I’m having to regulate my intake, I’m not apt to just go hunting. Plus I already have two other OBSQ picks.

That tier 6 might be decent trade bait if you already have enough 4R picks, Bob. If it's under $120 might be worth it for that?

I had a couple of pours of Penelope Barrel Strength tonight. I'm really starting to enjoy this one.

I've only had a single barrel pick at a herf a year or so ago, but remember liking it, James. Just haven't bit on my own bottle.

[Weelok]

In Long Island for testing so hit the local store.

Interesting. See if I like it better tonight. Not bad and really strong port aroma. I am not sure what I expected. The dram is more unique then great.

Interesting.

https://i.postimg.cc/mrJtTLG4/IMG-0367.jpg (https://postimages.org/)

[icehog3]

In Long Island for testing so hit the local store.

Interesting. See if I like it better tonight. Not bad and really strong port aroma. I am not sure what I expected. The dram is more unique then great.

Interesting.

https://i.postimg.cc/mrJtTLG4/IMG-0367.jpg (https://postimages.org/)

I really like the older batches, Dave, probably one of the only finished whiskeys I really enjoyed. The newer batches are just a bit too syrupy for me, I just don't dig that port finish in a whiskey anymore.

[stearns]

Quality cut in half and price doubled :td

[icehog3]

Quality cut in half and price doubled :td

https://i.imgur.com/4wGgpbAm.jpg

[Weelok]

Quality cut in half and price doubled :td

I wish I would have tried an earlier release because this one is rather disappointing. I can see what they were attempting but the Rye whisky in this batch is so muted and flavorless that the blend is almost pure fresh young port.

Well, fortunately a few other stores in Long Island and I can post pone trying to learn to enjoy A Midwinter Nights Dram.

https://i.postimg.cc/T11BkzFC/IMG-0390.jpg (https://postimages.org/)

Probably save the Bookers until I’m home so Weller is a go.

[icehog3]

Had an hour to kill while QTEE and her Mom did some antiquing, stopped into the Copper Fiddle Distillery in Lake Zurich, IL. Small but a great vibe, live music on weekends, cool staff. Their own juice is only 2 1/2 years old but shows some promise. I'll definitely be back and watch how the juice improves with age. I tried their cask strength at 121 proof. Young, but with promise.

https://i.imgur.com/1vu93dO.jpg

[icehog3]

I'm almost finished with a Pinhook 6 Year sib pick from 2022 by El Cerrito Liquors that has been excellent. So I picked up the 2024 8 Year single barrel from El Cerrito to see if it matches up.

https://i.imgur.com/PRVuO90.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/zX5tJs4m.jpg

[Weelok]

I'm almost finished with a Pinhook 6 Year sib pick from 2022 by El Cerrito Liquors that has been excellent. So I picked up the 2024 8 Year single barrel from El Cerrito to see if it matches up.

https://i.imgur.com/PRVuO90.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/zX5tJs4m.jpg

Should be the same. 6 year 2022 and now an 8 year in 2024.

Hah.

Must be good, let me know how the 8 tastes.

[icehog3]

Should be the same. 6 year 2022 and now an 8 year in 2024.

Hah.

Must be good, let me know how the 8 tastes.

I'll do a side by side in the next couple days, Dave. :tu

Picked up a couple Makers Mark bottles yesterday, my favorite wood finished batch (FAE-02) from 2021, and a new "Lost Recipes Edition 1". I'm hoping the latter will be more interesting than the "Heart 2024" release I opened a few weeks back.

https://i.imgur.com/CZ4hcV8.jpg

[Weelok]

Another good acquisition day, a got a bottle of Stagg Jr. Batch 15 in a trade, and my girl at my local called to say she put aside another bottle of Booker's Reserve for me at retail.

https://i.imgur.com/dro0557.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/KKYg72n.jpg

Wait I missed this post. Too busy at work.

YOU LUCKY So and So!!!!!!!!! Nice!!!!!

I just ordered a Reserve and some escorts at the regular inflated price and feel lucky to get that hah.

[icehog3]

Looking forward to what you have to say about The Reserves, Dave. Just opened mine last night and it's special, smoky, oaky, vanilla, cocoa.

That being said, first impressions have me liking the Little Book Infinite Blend better.

https://i.imgur.com/OOSWpkF.jpg

[Porch Dweller]

First time I've seen Booker's on the shelf in quite some time. Grabbed it and some ER. And it had been a while since I've had some Four Roses, so I grabbed two.

https://i.imgur.com/sZKybxsm.jpg

[icehog3]

Nice Birthday pickups, James! :hb :al

[Porch Dweller]

:tu

[Weelok]

First time I've seen Booker's on the shelf in quite some time. Grabbed it and some ER. And it had been a while since I've had some Four Roses, so I grabbed two.

https://i.imgur.com/sZKybxsm.jpg

Oh wow. Some nice finds all around!

[icehog3]

Good couple of hunting days here, picked up another Little Book Infinite Blend, and 3 new Booker's (24-03, Master Distiller's Blend) at retail

https://i.imgur.com/3C2L2r0.jpg

Also grabbed another Jay West (T8ke) pick, a 9 year single barrel Pinhook.

https://i.imgur.com/JaKgfRX.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/flBbvtYm.jpg

[Weelok]

Good couple of hunting days here, picked up another Little Book Infinite Blend, and 3 new Booker's (24-03, Master Distiller's Blend) at retail

https://i.imgur.com/3C2L2r0.jpg

Also grabbed another Jay West (T8ke) pick, a 9 year single barrel Pinhook.

https://i.imgur.com/JaKgfRX.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/flBbvtYm.jpg

Ohhhh nice finds and retail at that!!!!!

[icehog3]

Ohhhh nice finds and retail at that!!!!!

Yeah, I've been really hit and miss with the Booker's and Little Book at stores the last few years, Dave. This was a bonanza. -(P