The Bourbon Thread!!

[icehog3]

Local guy was selling an Elijah Craig A120, but he wanted about $20 too much for it. I got him to throw in a ECPB from Shorewood Liquors at coast. My favorite ECBP bottle ever, never thought I'd see another bottle, and certainly not so cheaply.

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

[stearns]

The sample was really tasty, Ben. Just need to decide when toy crack this one.

One of the managers told me they had something in the back for me. Never heard of it, but I bought it on the recommendation.

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

Turns out it's a new Maker's Mark offering...and it's already double what I paid retail on the secondary market.

Nice grab, I've heard great things. Also nice pickup on the A120, that stuff is seriously delicious :dr

[Weelok]

Local guy was selling an Elijah Craig A120, but he wanted about $20 too much for it. I got him to throw in a ECPB from Shorewood Liquors at coast. My favorite ECBP bottle ever, never thought I'd see another bottle, and certainly not so cheaply.

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

Nice negotiating!!!

New stuff I picked up to try.

https://i.postimg.cc/8CYPW3RD/IMG-1007.jpg (https://postimages.org/)

[icehog3]

Nice grab, I've heard great things. Also nice pickup on the A120, that stuff is seriously delicious :dr

I looked at the proof and was surprised I hadn't bought an A120 before.

All the credit on the SHF to my Binny's guy, Ben, I didn't even know what it was until I got home and researched it. :r

Nice negotiating!!!

New stuff I picked up to try.

https://i.postimg.cc/8CYPW3RD/IMG-1007.jpg (https://postimages.org/)

Nice Dave! I know one of the Smokeye Hill releases was Minnik's pick of the year. curious to hear what you think.

[icehog3]

Almost killed off another of my favorite ECBP batches last night.

https://i.imgur.com/gBioOt3.jpg

[stearns]

Almost killed off another of my favorite ECBP batches last night.

My all time favorite :noon:noon

[icehog3]

My all time favorite :noon:noon

It has been for me too, though the B520 gives it a run for its money. Can't wait to try the A120.

[stearns]

Can't wait to try the A120.

Same league as C919, they're both so good and make the newer batches feel basic by comparison

[icehog3]

Same league as C919, they're both so good and make the newer batches feel basic by comparison

And ain't that a shame. That's why i go hunting for some of the old ones.

[Weelok]

Nice Dave! I know one of the Smokeye Hill releases was Minnik's pick of the year. curious to hear what you think.

I opened it up last night to try it out. It lives up to the hype IMHO. Since I have a mediocre palate, to me it’s a bit better than Stagg. For those that can find Stagg, it’s probably not worth hunting for.

For us on the West Coast where Stagg is a hunt for sub $200 bottles, this Smokeye Hill is an $85 bottle on the shelf!!

My bottle is 134 proof. Hot for sure but very sweet and all the great intense high proof bourbon flavors shine through. I drank it neat but I may drop in some water in a pour tonight to see how it opens up.

I would agree it is smooth so the proof is manageable.

I ordered two more bottles from Remedy. Going to try and get another from Total Wine :)

[Porch Dweller]

Nice grabs! Been on a cruise for a couple of weeks, they had some decent bourbons on board. Drank mostly Buffalo Trace and WT101, as they were included with the drink package. It's going to feel odd drinking some high octane bourbon tonight for the first time in a while. I'm sure I'll get used to it, though. :D

[stearns]

Drank mostly Buffalo Trace and WT101, as they were included with the drink package.

If I had to pick two (attainable) bottles to keep me occupied on a cruise, these would certainly be up there as top options :al

[icehog3]

I opened it up last night to try it out. It lives up to the hype IMHO. Since I have a mediocre palate, to me it’s a bit better than Stagg. For those that can find Stagg, it’s probably not worth hunting for.

For us on the West Coast where Stagg is a hunt for sub $200 bottles, this Smokeye Hill is an $85 bottle on the shelf!!

My bottle is 134 proof. Hot for sure but very sweet and all the great intense high proof bourbon flavors shine through. I drank it neat but I may drop in some water in a pour tonight to see how it opens up.

I would agree it is smooth so the proof is manageable.

I ordered two more bottles from Remedy. Going to try and get another from Total Wine :)

Sounds excellent, Dave, glad it hits your palate so nicely. 134 proof is right up my alley too.

Nice grabs! Been on a cruise for a couple of weeks, they had some decent bourbons on board. Drank mostly Buffalo Trace and WT101, as they were included with the drink package. It's going to feel odd drinking some high octane bourbon tonight for the first time in a while. I'm sure I'll get used to it, though. :D

https://i.imgur.com/f61VC3xm.jpg

[Chainsaw13]

Gosh darn it! Told myself I was done buying bottles. My local store got some of the new Four Roses single barrel releases. Got the OBSF recipe. Already had a pour. Delicious.

[icehog3]

Gosh darn it! Told myself I was done buying bottles. My local store got some of the new Four Roses single barrel releases. Got the OBSF recipe. Already had a pour. Delicious.

Quitting is for quitters! You're no quitter, Bob! :al :noon

[mahtofire14]

My local shop just got a Larceny Barrel Selection in. Not really a typical bourbon you'd think of for a barrel pick but Larceny is one of my favorite every day drinkers so I'm looking forward to this. Big fan of most things by Heaven Hill.

[Porch Dweller]

Found this barrel at the Midleton Distillery in Ireland, patiently waiting to age some Irish spirit:

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

[Weelok]

Found this barrel at the Midleton Distillery in Ireland, patiently waiting to age some Irish spirit:

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

I want to go see that barrel and maybe drink some Irish Whiskey!!!

[Weelok]

More stuff.

https://i.postimg.cc/4NtjBVSy/IMG-1014.jpg (https://postimages.org/)

Frey Ranch Fathers Day single barrels. Barrels #845 and #3085. #845 is 129.36 at 8 yrs and two months. #3085 is 131.04 and 6 yrs and one month.

Pinhook 8 and looking forward to trying that.

Kentucky Castle Bourbon Straight Single Barrel 9 year. No information on this other than it’s the founder of Angel Envy.

[Chainsaw13]

My local shop just got a Larceny Barrel Selection in. Not really a typical bourbon you'd think of for a barrel pick but Larceny is one of my favorite every day drinkers so I'm looking forward to this. Big fan of most things by Heaven Hill.

Sounds like a good pickup, Pete. :tu

Found this barrel at the Midleton Distillery in Ireland, patiently waiting to age some Irish spirit:

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

:dr:dr:dr

[stearns]

Kentucky Castle Bourbon Straight Single Barrel 9 year. No information on this other than it’s the founder of Angel Envy.

I've never heard of Kentucky Castle before, sounds cool. Let us know what you think when you try it!

[icehog3]

Dave, you can ignore my Frey Ranch question on the other thread. Looking forward to hearing your thoughts, Binny's is expecting single barrel picks soon.

I've been looking at the Pinhook 9 Year vertical. waiting for it to go on sale. ;)

[icehog3]

Binny's got in Buffalo Trace today, you could pick one from Blanton's, Eagle Rare, EH Taylor or Caribou. Either MSRP on Blanton's is up again, or Binny's is taking their little slice of the pie. Easy choice for me.

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

[stearns]

I think SRP is up to like $80 for Blanton's. Keep going at this rate and they'll end up sitting on shelves again

[Weelok]

Dave, you can ignore my Frey Ranch question on the other thread. Looking forward to hearing your thoughts, Binny's is expecting single barrel picks soon.

I've been looking at the Pinhook 9 Year vertical. waiting for it to go on sale. ;)

I haven’t tried the Frey Single Barrel bourbons yet. I have drank a few of the barrel select Ryes and Wheats and they are great. The Uncut Barrel Strength bourbon didn’t do it for me.

I still have the Uncut and will try a few more shots in a few days. I recall it just being a higher proof of the regular bourbon and better watered down. I didn’t get more intense flavors out of the higher proof. I want to try these single barrels and then see what my thoughts are of the Uncut.

The Pinhook 9 is pretty prevalent on the shelves. Go for sale. It is great IMHO. Good enough I tracked down an 8 and found 7’s on the shelf at a local B&M.

[Weelok]

I've never heard of Kentucky Castle before, sounds cool. Let us know what you think when you try it!

I think this is the one on deck for tonight. I’m very curious.

[Beagleone]

I think SRP is up to like $80 for Blanton's. Keep going at this rate and they'll end up sitting on shelves again

Current MSRP is $95

-(P

[Chainsaw13]

Current MSRP is $95

-(P

~$80 here in Michigan. I’d rather have Rare Breed.

[icehog3]

I appreciate the insight, Dave, a new manager is touting the Frey Ranch stuff but they haven't gotten anything uncut yet. Hoping they get some picks soon.

Tony, Ben, Bob, Blanton's is $89 here now, so almost $100 after tax. Secondary is $110, so there's no point in buying it to trade at this point.

[Weelok]

I think this is the one on deck for tonight. I’m very curious.

https://i.postimg.cc/KvwGmxy5/IMG-1015.jpg (https://postimages.org/)shell diesel station locator (https://gasstation-nearme.com/shell)

Whoo this is good bourbon. Smooth, oak, vanilla, caramel, and bit of other spice probably oak barrel pepper etc. This is a great bourbon. I will open up Pinhook 8 and see how they compare. I think the Castle is likely better but it will be close.

Definitely a small batch. My bottle was barrel 2 hah.

[icehog3]

Good to hear the Castle is a winner, Dave!

I wanted to open something low(er) proof but high flavor for the bar. Remus Gatsby Reserve (the first release) is 15 year MGP at its finest. Cola, caramel and sweet oak dominate the palate, while the finish is long lasting and bold.

https://i.imgur.com/eTk2s7G.jpg

[Weelok]

Good to hear the Castle is a winner, Dave!

I wanted to open something low(er) proof but high flavor for the bar. Remus Gatsby Reserve (the first release) is 15 year MGP at its finest. Cola, caramel and sweet oak dominate the palate, while the finish is long lasting and bold.

https://i.imgur.com/eTk2s7G.jpg

Holy cow that sounds great!!!!

[Weelok]

My brother brought over a Frey barrel select that can only be bought at the ranch. Very tasty. Had a forth grain in the mash I could taste that I think was barley??? Added a nice element.

I opened up my last barrel select Rye as well. Need to get more.

https://i.postimg.cc/LXs89dft/IMG-1019.jpg (https://postimages.org/)

https://i.postimg.cc/vZWBXtbV/IMG-1020.jpg (https://postimages.org/)

138.92 proof on the bourbon.

[icehog3]

My brother brought over a Frey barrel select that can only be bought at the ranch. Very tasty. Had a forth grain in the mash I could taste that I think was barley??? Added a nice element.

I opened up my last barrel select Rye as well. Need to get more.

https://i.postimg.cc/LXs89dft/IMG-1019.jpg (https://postimages.org/)

https://i.postimg.cc/vZWBXtbV/IMG-1020.jpg (https://postimages.org/)

138.92 proof on the bourbon.

Glad they are good, Dave! :dr :tu

This one was 140.2 proof and made me very happy for 9 months. Thank you again, Hugh!

https://i.imgur.com/dxWTs6q.jpg

[hotreds]

Hope to bring some more goodies in August@

[icehog3]

Hope to bring some more goodies in August@

:noon :banger :tu

[icehog3]

I went to Binny’s yesterday and they had dropped several Jack Daniel’s barrel picks: Single Barrel, Barrel Proof Bourbon and Barrel Proof Rye.

I grabbed one of each BP, in the highest proof offered for each. (Bourbon is 135.6 and Rye is 137.8).

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

I haven’t cared much for the JD BP Ryes I’ve tried in the past, so I opened it first. After a small first pour I’ll say I like it better than those previous pours; I’m just not sure I like it yet.

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

I opened up the bourbon next. Middle of the road for JDBP picks. That means while it’s good, I’m still a little disappointed if that makes any sense.

[jledou]

Just picked up the same pair last night, only mine were in at 129.9 and 131.1.

[Porch Dweller]

Just picked up the same pair last night, only mine were in at 129.9 and 131.1.

https://external-content.duckduckgo.com/iu/?u=https%3A%2F%2Fi.redd.it%2Fah5f7cgeke871.gif&f=1&nofb=1&ipt=5f49b0e7313718a8a3137d3c8f7dd7944c169e8a31426e d342713ac14efe7712


:D :D

[icehog3]

Just picked up the same pair last night, only mine were in at 129.9 and 131.1.

https://i.imgur.com/1lAmqvS.gif

[icehog3]

Bought this on closeout at Binny's. 121 proof single barrel.

Guy tried to tell me it's Wild Turkey juice. It's not.

Opened it to see if it's worth $30. It is.

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

[Porch Dweller]

Saw this on my local Air Force Base and grabbed it. I haven't found any information about it other than the "Selected for those who served" line. I asked one of the clerks and she had no clue (but TBH, she exudes an air of cluelessness pretty much constantly. She seems one of those people that manages to do just enough to not get fired and no more...but I digress.)

They also had MM Cask Strength on sale, and I rarely pass that up.

https://i.imgur.com/7hIdRcxl.jpg

[stearns]

Nice pickup! Usually when it says "Selected FOR XXX" it means that it was a distributor pick, meaning it wasn't somebody from the store that tasted a few and picked their favorite but moreso the store saying they just want a single barrel and taking whichever they get. That doesn't say anything about the quality, it could be the best barrel ever and at a minimum you know it's going to be good since it's a 9 year barrel proof single barrel EC, but a cool grab nonetheless

[Porch Dweller]

Nice pickup! Usually when it says "Selected FOR XXX" it means that it was a distributor pick, meaning it wasn't somebody from the store that tasted a few and picked their favorite but moreso the store saying they just want a single barrel and taking whichever they get. That doesn't say anything about the quality, it could be the best barrel ever and at a minimum you know it's going to be good since it's a 9 year barrel proof single barrel EC, but a cool grab nonetheless

:cl

I knew someone here would have some background. Good info, thanks!!!

https://external-content.duckduckgo.com/iu/?u=https%3A%2F%2Fmedia.tenor.com%2FWycSEmTyh74AAAA M%2Fwow.gif&f=1&nofb=1&ipt=6bc103fe411d5c0ccd3822a00518b82e7ef39bc3ceefde 228577694784178619

[icehog3]

Definitely a nice pickup, James. :dr

I opened a couple new bottles this week. A Booker's Tommy's Batch because it is my "retirement" bottle and I just "retired" again.

https://i.imgur.com/okUiE5w.jpg

The next was a 1792 Full Proof, a Sal's pick single barrel. I wasn't expecting much, the last few Sal's picks gave been somewhat disappointing, and I am through with them unless it's something crazy allocated. This actually turned out pretty good though. :lr

https://i.imgur.com/YBlIE3i.jpg

[icehog3]

Latest pickup is a Jay West pick. I've had great luck with jay's picks, so I decide to take a chance on this one. Proof might be a touch high. ;)

https://i.imgur.com/jMTtA6Q.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/0iZmU29m.jpg

[Chainsaw13]

Jesus H! 155? You could run a top fuel dragster off that.

I cracked open a RRSP from my local store. Almost 10 tears old. Very good stuff.

[icehog3]

Love the RRSPs, Bob. :dr

I opened the Hazmat bottle and gave it a try. There's no acetone or anything unappealing for a 155 proof bourbon. It has lots of oak, char, hickory, mesquite...I would call it a campfire. It does not have the complexity or depth of flavor that the last two Hazmat bottles had. (Mattingly Razor's Edge at 141.2 and ECBP at 140.2, both from Hugh by the way). Worth the price of admission if for nothing but the novelty.

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

[Beagleone]

Old Fitz 7 year BiB just hit north Texas. Our main Spec's store put 18 cases last Thursday, which quickly sold out. I've seen a number of post on FB selling them for a significantly increased price soon thereafter. MSRP is around $50. Today, the same store dumped another 150 bottles. Tilted said not to worry, this will be plentiful and avoid secondary. I haven't seen it hitting the other stores yet, but will grab a bottle or two when they land.

[icehog3]

Hope you get some soon, Tony. I'll definitely give it a moment here as well and hope it eventually becomes easier to find at retail.

[Beagleone]

Hope you get some soon, Tony. I'll definitely give it a moment here as well and hope it eventually becomes easier to find at retail.

I managed to catch two bottles yesterday. I will pop one open and try it out this week and report back. -(P

[Weelok]

I managed to catch two bottles yesterday. I will pop one open and try it out this week and report back. -(P

Nice!!!!! That store you shop at sounds amazing!!

[icehog3]

Nice score, Tony! :tu

[icehog3]

Found the Old Fitzgerald 7 Year for the first time on the shelf at Garfield's.

https://i.imgur.com/7i1PnOJ.jpg

[Genetic Defect]

Latest pickup is a Jay West pick. I've had great luck with jay's picks, so I decide to take a chance on this one. Proof might be a touch high. ;)

https://i.imgur.com/jMTtA6Q.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/0iZmU29m.jpg

Damn, That's what I'm talking about!

[icehog3]

Damn, That's what I'm talking about!

Stop by for a pour and a cigar anytime!

Tried the Old Fitz & last night, I like it. Nice touch of wheated sweetness on the palate.

https://i.imgur.com/DM2Yaln.jpg

[Beagleone]

Stop by for a pour and a cigar anytime!

Tried the Old Fitz & last night, I like it. Nice touch of wheated sweetness on the palate.

https://i.imgur.com/DM2Yaln.jpg

I have yet to open up one of my bottles. I will this weekend. How did you like the Rojas Al Pastor cigar?

I am on the hunt for Eagle 12. Intel says it should be landing in NTX soon. -(P

[icehog3]

I have yet to open up one of my bottles. I will this weekend. How did you like the Rojas Al Pastor cigar?

I am on the hunt for Eagle 12. Intel says it should be landing in NTX soon. -(P

I like the Al Pastor, a bit different flavor than the other Tacos with the same quality, Tony.

The secondary on the Eagle Rare 12 here was insane to watch. I'd be in at $99 tops.

[stearns]

Nice touch of wheated sweetness on the palate.

Sounds like what I'd expect. I would probably convince myself to buy one if I saw it on a shelf but not going out of my way. A couple years ago we did an old fitz tasting where we tried new make, 2, 4, 6 and 8 yr followed by the 19yr that had just come out. That mashbill can do some cool stuff at higher ages, but 8 and under was just generally sweet for me, once they start getting to 11+ the magic slowly starts happening

I am on the hunt for Eagle 12. Intel says it should be landing in NTX soon. -(P

Good luck! Had a friend grab one of the ones they released on Father's day, he was very impressed, said it was a step above the best ER10 pick he's tried. I'll be on the lookout for one but not expecting to see one for a while

[Genetic Defect]

Stop by for a pour and a cigar anytime!

Tried the Old Fitz & last night, I like it. Nice touch of wheated sweetness on the palate.

https://i.imgur.com/DM2Yaln.jpg

One of theses days :)

[icehog3]

Manager recommendation: I have 2 reasons to absolutely hate it. First, it's a rye. Second, it's finished. In French Barrique barrels even.

100% Michigan grown rye and Great Lakes water. Is that something to brag about?;) Two James is Detroit's first distillery since prohibition.

Why did I buy it? The manager said it was his second favorite whiskey of 2024. and this is the guy who pulls me aside or even calls when something allocated comes in. So yes, I will humor him. I'll report back...assuming it doesn't kill me.

https://i.imgur.com/1JwE2IW.jpg

[Chainsaw13]

You’re a braver man than me, but sometimes you have to take one for the team.

[shark]

How bad could it be, Tom? :r

[icehog3]

Keep being funny, Boys, and I'll bring the bottle to Shack. ;) :lr

[jledou]

Just catching up after vacation here ... it must have killed poor Tom :)

[icehog3]

Just catching up after vacation here ... it must have killed poor Tom :)

Jay, I still haven't opened it! :D :r

[icehog3]

I opened a new single barrel pick from Journeyman, a distillery in Three Oaks, MI. This one has a 100% Michigan wheat mash bill. Very grain forward with only 4 years of age, not complex and drinks higher than its proof.

https://i.imgur.com/Jbwa5Qm.jpg

Hoping for better taste with the new Booker's batch that hit Chicago yesterday, By The Pond batch.

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

[Porch Dweller]

I'm flying home for my mother's bday. The mid-60ish woman across the aisle from me ordered two Buffalo Trace and ginger ales. I didn't know whether to be impressed by Gangsta Grannie hitting double Bourbons at 0920 or appalled that she mixed Buffalo Trace with ginger ale. :D


...and that's how I found that Buffalo Trace with a nice splash of water makes for a tasty breakfast Bourbon! Don't judge, I'm on vacation. :D

[stearns]

I heard Tom is giving up KY bourbon and sticking to strictly Michigan made stuff :r

...and that's how I found that Buffalo Trace with a nice splash of water makes for a tasty breakfast Bourbon! Don't judge, I'm on vacation. :D

A great way to start the day. I always enjoy a nice Wild Turkey 101 when I'm flying but that's one of the last perks of Southwest, BT is a solid option. Flight attendants are always confused by my order of Wild Turkey neat even when I specify "in a cup with no ice." A third of the time it comes in a cup with ice, a third it's just the plastic nip with no cup for mini bottle pulls, and occasionally I actually get it the way I asked for

[icehog3]

Woodford is what's offered on American Airlines, Ben and James. I need to switch airlines. :r

I opened the French Connection (finished) last night.

I need to stop..... :lr

https://i.imgur.com/BgJ7yeTm.png

[Brian D.]

I'm flying home for my mother's bday. The mid-60ish woman across the aisle from me ordered two Buffalo Trace and ginger ales. I didn't know whether to be impressed by Gangsta Grannie hitting double Bourbons at 0920 or appalled that she mixed Buffalo Trace with ginger ale. :D


...and that's how I found that Buffalo Trace with a nice splash of water makes for a tasty breakfast Bourbon! Don't judge, I'm on vacation. :D

"Smoke what you like, like what you smoke." To me it's about the same with alcohol. During COVID when bars were shut down, I experimented with several different mixers for my rum or bourbon drinks. No snobs to judge, was out by myself or hanging with friends who cared more about maintaining a semblance of a social life, than what any of us brought to sip on. We did break some laws about WHERE we gathered, and how many of us were there. -(P

[icehog3]

Finished whiskey. I know I just said I had to stop.

I paid for this before I said that.

I actually tried this one before buying. Probably my favorite finished pour since the early days of Midwinter Night's Dram.

You wouldn't think this would appeal to me. Double cask finish with the first being maple syrup barrels. Yup.

Second finish in Cuban rum barrels. This might have intrigued the old me (read: 2 days ago).

I had it at a retirement party seeing a lot of old friends, so the situation may have been part of the reason I liked it. I hope it wasn't the only reason.

https://i.imgur.com/G6bWVUM.jpg

[Beagleone]

Finished whiskey. I know I just said I had to stop.

I paid for this before I said that.

I actually tried this one before buying. Probably my favorite finished pour since the early days of Midwinter Night's Dram.

You wouldn't think this would appeal to me. Double cask finish with the first being maple syrup barrels. Yup.

Second finish in Cuban rum barrels. This might have intrigued the old me (read: 2 days ago).

I had it at a retirement party seeing a lot of old friends, so the situation may have been part of the reason I liked it. I hope it wasn't the only reason.

https://i.imgur.com/G6bWVUM.jpg

I've had this before and liked it. I am not big on finished bourbons myself, but it was delicious. -(P

[icehog3]

I've had this before and liked it. I am not big on finished bourbons myself, but it was delicious. -(P

Great minds and great palates? -(P

Batshit crazy minds and palates of goats? :noon

I was shocked how much I liked the small pour I had, Tony. I am thinking this will be my dessert whiskey when I want something sweet.

[icehog3]

Just hit the market last week, figured I'd give it a try at $39.

https://i.imgur.com/Il1azBX.jpg

[icehog3]

The last two times we've gone up to Delavan to have dinner with QT's parents, I've had a pour of a different 2X0 bourbon, and liked both a lot.

Found a deal for both and each was $30 under suggested retail (and what they cost at Binny's), plus a $10 coupon. Made it an easy decision.

https://i.imgur.com/y8a2xT0.jpg

[Porch Dweller]

Went through a bottle of Jefferson's Reserve while visiting my folks. Quite smooth for 130 proof.

[icehog3]

Went through a bottle of Jefferson's Reserve while visiting my folks. Quite smooth for 130 proof.

Wow, was that a single barrel, James?

[icehog3]

Went through a bottle of Jefferson's Reserve while visiting my folks. Quite smooth for 130 proof.

Wow, was that a single barrel, James?

[stearns]

Nice pickups Tom! I've heard good things about the OGD, haven't heard much about the 2XO's but am a fan of Dixon so I'm sure they're tasty. His prices have always kept me away, glad you were able to get a deal

[icehog3]

Nice pickups Tom! I've heard good things about the OGD, haven't heard much about the 2XO's but am a fan of Dixon so I'm sure they're tasty. His prices have always kept me away, glad you were able to get a deal

Thanks Ben...I likely would have passed if they were MSRP, but with the sale and coupon I paid about 67% of that. I'll send you a sample of each when I open them.

[Porch Dweller]

Wow, was that a single barrel, James?

It's this one here, from Total Wine. (https://concierge.totalwine.com/concierge-offers/jeffersons-reserve-limited-edition-cask-strength-kentucky-straight-bourbon-whiskey-kentucky-usa) It was $77 at the TW I found it in Indianapolis. It is an absolute steal at that price and I'm kicking myself for not grabbing another one while I was there.

[icehog3]

It's this one here, from Total Wine. (https://concierge.totalwine.com/concierge-offers/jeffersons-reserve-limited-edition-cask-strength-kentucky-straight-bourbon-whiskey-kentucky-usa) It was $77 at the TW I found it in Indianapolis. It is an absolute steal at that price and I'm kicking myself for not grabbing another one while I was there.

I know that feeling. Sounds like a great bottle!

[icehog3]

Mike brought out the good stuff yesterday. After a pour of Old Carter American 10, we hit 3 of the BTAC series. Only thing better than the booze, cigars and ribs was the company.

https://i.imgur.com/RBIPr7jm.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/EA6owEqm.jpg

[stearns]

Sounds like an excellent way to spend a day :tu

[icehog3]

Sounds like an excellent way to spend a day :tu

It would have been an excellent day if we drank Stroh's and smoked Rockys, so everything else was icing, Ben. :tu

[icehog3]

So I have tried two 2XO batches, Vinyl and Sneakerhead, at a great restaurant QT and I go to with her parents in Wisconsin. I liked both and ended up buying both releases at a great price. But I wondered if part of the appeal was environment, and if I would like them as well at home.

Opened the Vinyl last night, I like it a lot.:D

https://i.imgur.com/Azthpl9.jpg

[Chainsaw13]

Sounds like a good bottle, Tom. I had a pour of James E Pepper last night. My bottle is opening up nicely.

[stearns]

I'm usually not a big fan of bourbon cocktails (my opinion is I have too much good sipping bourbon that I'd rather drink), but I've been enjoying an occasional Blackberry Smash to get through a few opens that are more mixing-grade which I want off the bar. 2-3 Blackberries and some fresh mint muddled together, add 1/2oz lemon and 1oz simple syrup and muddle again, add 2oz whiskey and shake then double strain. These things are delicious :dr

I had some extra peaches last weekend so I did a peach smash using the same recipe, also delicious

[Chainsaw13]

I'm usually not a big fan of bourbon cocktails (my opinion is I have too much good sipping bourbon that I'd rather drink), but I've been enjoying an occasional Blackberry Smash to get through a few opens that are more mixing-grade which I want off the bar. 2-3 Blackberries and some fresh mint muddled together, add 1/2oz lemon and 1oz simple syrup and muddle again, add 2oz whiskey and shake then double strain. These things are delicious :dr

I had some extra peaches last weekend so I did a peach smash using the same recipe, also delicious

I’ve done those too Ben. A new one I saw was a smoked strawberry smash. Same recipe as yours, then use a lighter to torch a fresh rosemary sprig as garnish.

[icehog3]

Speaking of Blackberry, I saw Jack Daniel's Blackberry on Wednesday, wonder how it compares to the Crown version.

[Porch Dweller]

We were at my favorite B&M and saw the Clyde May's store pick, so I picked one up. I've gone through a couple of bottles of the Clyde May's Special Reserve 6-Year and quite enjoyed them, so I figured why not. They also had one lonely bottle of the ET BIB, so I gave it a good home.


https://i.imgur.com/JG2aqSNl.jpg

[icehog3]

Nice pickups, James! :tu

Did ET finally go to a 750ml?

[Porch Dweller]

No, it's a 1L.

[icehog3]

No, it's a 1L.

Thank you, James, I don't know why they look smaller to me now. :confused:

[Porch Dweller]

My local base had each of these for 20% off. Wasn't looking to get anything, but I can't pass that up. I've especially been enjoying the OF Prohibition lately, and I'm not much of a fan of most OF stuff.

https://i.imgur.com/xxc99Qml.jpg

[stearns]

Nice! I agree the 1920 is my favorite of the regular release OF bourbon, probably the only one I like. John (Black Coral) sent me a bottle of the OF Kings Ranch that they only sell in Texas and I've been liking that one too, gives me 1920 vibes but with a touch more fruit to it

[icehog3]

Hugh (hotreds) brought an LE tribute bottle of Art of Spirits to Shack, and was kind enough to send it home with me after. Thank you Hugh!

https://i.imgur.com/JAq2FuZ.jpg

There were lots of great bourbons that I drank but didn't snap a pic. Some of the highlights were an '87 Bookers that Mikepd brought, a near hazmat Stagg from beagleone, Old Carter American 14 from chibnkr, and these other bottles from Hugh (WLW and '70s Old Grandad did not get photographed, lol).

https://i.imgur.com/b5n2PWp.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/xeZ788V.jpg

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

[Porch Dweller]

:dr

[stearns]

Parkers Blend of Mashbills is probably the best one out there other than maybe Promise of Hope. Glad you guys got to enjoy some decent pours :al

[icehog3]

Parkers Blend of Mashbills is probably the best one out there other than maybe Promise of Hope. Glad you guys got to enjoy some decent pours :al

That one was the surprise for me, Ben, I didn't know that much about the Heritage Blend (especially how delicious it was). Then I thought about it, I think Hugh brought a different Parker's last year that was delicious too.

[stearns]

That one was the surprise for me, Ben, I didn't know that much about the Heritage Blend (especially how delicious it was). Then I thought about it, I think Hugh brought a different Parker's last year that was delicious too.

There was a bar in town that had pretty much all of the Parker's as of a few years ago at decent prices ($30-$40 for 1.5oz). They have mostly disappeared by now, a good amount of each went into my mouth. Hell I bought the last three pours of Promise of Hope and took the bottle home with me, saw one for sale recently for $1400 :td

I've been fortunate to try most of the Parker's that have been put out, they're all over the place because they're generally experimental, the hits are big hits but some of the misses can be a let down. Looking forward to trying this year's, they're going for something similar to the original Blend of Mashbills

[icehog3]

Thank you for the info, Ben! :tu

Had a little pour of ORVW10 last night. Not sure if I was celebrating being home or drowning my sorrows over Shack being over. ;) :r

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

[Chainsaw13]

Did a little hunting this afternoon. You can tell the bourbon market is slowing down. Each place had so of the more HTF, allocated stuff out for general consumption. A couple places had it for secondary still, which explains why it’s still there.

Hit up my local store, with plans to buy a bottle of Dragons Milk Origin BiB. I really enjoyed the first bottle I bought. Completely spaced that out and grabbed the Four Roses store pick and the Old Fitz 7 y/o BiB. Already had a pour of the 4R. It’s a :banger.

[icehog3]

Nice grabs, Bob. You can get the DM next time. :tu

I've really been enjoying the 2XO bottles, if you enjoy good oak (not over-oaked) it's worth a try, but whole story is between a sale, a coupon and free shipping, I got them for about 2/3s MSRP. But if you see one of the Icon series bottles at a bar, I'd suggest having a pour.

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

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

[Chainsaw13]

I’ve seen these 2XO’s at a few stores by me. Didn’t even look at prices. What’s msrp?

[Porch Dweller]

Did a little hunting this afternoon. You can tell the bourbon market is slowing down. Each place had so of the more HTF, allocated stuff out for general consumption. A couple places had it for secondary still, which explains why it’s still there.

Hit up my local store, with plans to buy a bottle of Dragons Milk Origin BiB. I really enjoyed the first bottle I bought. Completely spaced that out and grabbed the Four Roses store pick and the Old Fitz 7 y/o BiB. Already had a pour of the 4R. It’s a :banger.

Good to hear. I didn't appreciate 4R when I was younger, but there's very little I've had of theirs that I didn't enjoy to some measure. Their Small Batch Select has a semi-permanent place on my bar.

[Chainsaw13]

Good to hear. I didn't appreciate 4R when I was younger, but there's very little I've had of theirs that I didn't enjoy to some measure. Their Small Batch Select has a semi-permanent place on my bar.

As much as I got into the hobby, chasing bottles, it took me a while to figure out the standards are what I prefer. Four Roses, EC, WT.

[icehog3]

2XO Icon Series have an MSRP of $99, Bob. I was able to get them for $66.

Finished a Longhorn Steakhouse KC 15 year pick last night. Only one left. :(

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

[stearns]

A lot of good bourbon drank on Friday but the best part was comparing 2022 vs 2024 WLW. Same DNA, different expression, 2024 was a little sweeter and fruitier with a touch of honey while 2022 was more oak and burnt sugar with a little cherry in the background. Don't know which one I liked more, might have to try again another day :al

https://i.postimg.cc/7L83w23b/PXL-20250822-194353566-MP.jpg

[icehog3]

I'd definitely try again another day, Ben! :tu :al :wo

I had a couple high proof Art of Spirits pours last night. Jay West's hazmat pick, and a LEO pick that Hugh gifted to me.

https://i.imgur.com/0Hc7Sj0.jpg

[stearns]

Finished a Longhorn Steakhouse KC 15 year pick last night. Only one left. :(

Saw somebody selling one this morning... for $230 :td

[icehog3]

Saw somebody selling one this morning... for $230 :td

I wouldn't pay that....but I wouldn't take it for my last one either, Ben! ;) :D