Angel's Envy 10 Cask Strength Bourbon

 

For the first time ever, Angel's Envy has released their first-ever age-stated bottle!  This is the Angel's Envy 10 Cask Strength bourbon.  Touted as the crown jewel of their Cask Strength Archives, every detail of this release confirms that it was not made to meet a deadline - it was made the exceed expectations!

Bottled at 122.6 proof (61.3% ABV).  This bottle features a weighted glass and a 10/10-engraved cork closure crowned with a dark metal medallion.  This is extremely limited at select retailers nationwide.  Only 200 bottles will be available online through the Angel's Envy website.

Angel's Envy 10 Cask Strength opens with warm cinnamon, creamy nougat, and candied nuts.  On the palate, ripe fruit and crème brûlée unfold, while the port wine finish influence reveals rum raisin cake and leaves a graceful invitation for another sip.

Ok...  All of that above is from the distillery's press release.  We received a bottle of this to taste/review/share and here's the REAL DEAL...

First of all, we have to address the packaging.  Absolutely stunning and 10 out of 10!  We love when distilleries and agencies get super creative and this "vault" exterior packaging with interior LED lights is an absolute home run!

We let this one breathe some air in the Glencairn for about 15 minutes before we approached it - neat, of course.  Cinnamon stick, cashew, honey, baking spices and salt water taffy all competing for best in show in lifted aromas.  It's just mouth-watering!  Caramel-tawny colored with welcoming flavors of ripe red fruits, cherry cordial, cream cheese frosting, vanilla, and brown sugar.  The port wine finish is the "pièce de résistance" in our opinion, leaving a sweet, vanilla and raisin-like goodness that covers the mouth begs for more.  

This is, without a doubt, the best Angel's Envy expression we have ever tasted.  For those who tend to shy away from cask strength bottles (yes, apparently that's a real choice), you will find this to be extremely approachable and the sweetness offsets some of the heat you tend to get from 120+ proof whiskey.  If you get a chance to taste this, do not pass up the opportunity!

ABV:  61.3% (122.6 proof)

Distillery:  Angel's Envy

Suggested retail price:  $249.99

Drink The Bottles score:  97/100
 

Pappy Van Winkle 2025 Bourbon Collection

 

FRANKFORT, Ky (September 10, 2025) – Old Rip Van Winkle Distillery and Buffalo Trace Distillery proudly announce the 2025 release of the coveted Van Winkle Whiskey Collection. Returning to shelves this September, the annual offering is a centerpiece for collectors and connoisseurs alike, showcasing the family’s renowned wheated bourbon and rye whiskey recipes across six celebrated expressions: Old Rip Van Winkle Handmade Bourbon 10 Year Old, Van Winkle Special Reserve 12 Year Old, Van Winkle Family Reserve Rye 13 Year Old, Pappy Van Winkle’s Family Reserve 15 Year Old, Pappy Van Winkle’s Family Reserve 20 Year Old, and Pappy Van Winkle’s Family Reserve 23 Year Old. Additionally, in honor of this year’s release, one rare bottle of Old Rip Van Winkle 25 Year Old - recently rediscovered at the Distillery - will be included in Legacy de Forge’s National Bourbon Heritage Month Auction starting September 10, 2025.

 

The annual release continues to embody what makes this family of whiskeys a hallmark in the American Whiskey category: exceptional taste, legendary craftsmanship, and a legacy that resonates across generations.

 

“As always, each release represents years of quiet work, careful aging and a deep respect for the legacy we carry forward,” said Preston Van Winkle, 4^th Generation, Old Rip Van Winkle Distillery. “We’ve taken great care to ensure the quality of this year’s release lives up to the Van Winkle name. We’re proud to share this whiskey with those who appreciate the craft, patience and tradition that go into every bottle.”

 

In celebration of the 2025 Van Winkle Collection release and National Bourbon Heritage Month, Legacy de Forge, a new global platform to improve access to Sazerac’s most coveted spirits, will present an exclusive series of rare whiskey auctions this September. Leading the offerings is Old Rip Van Winkle 25 Year Old, the oldest and rarest expression ever released under the iconic name, paired with a private tasting with Julian Van Winkle – and a story as rare as the whiskey inside.

 

Originally filled into its hand-engraved Glencairn crystal decanter in 2017, Bottle #706 was safely tucked away at Buffalo Trace Distillery, untouched for nearly a decade. As one of the final bottles from the original 710 produced, it emerges as more than a rare collectible: a once-hidden treasure made available for enjoyment by today’s enthusiasts. Beyond its rarity, this archival bottle carries a provenance and a story that elevate it into the realm of legend, offering the opportunity to experience a true piece of bourbon history.

 

Legacy de Forge’s September Bourbon Heritage Month Auction will feature eight curated lots in total, offering enthusiasts direct access to distinguished bottlings including O.F.C 2006, the newly-released Colonel E.H. Taylor Distiller’s Council and a Stagg Single Barrel pick. Bidding opens at 10:00 a.m. ET on September 10, 2025, and will close at 10:00 a.m. ET on September 24, 2025. For more information, please visit https://legacydeforge.com/release/bourbon-heritage-month-2025.

 

The 2025 Van Winkle Collection will be made available to stores, bars and restaurants across the United States in limited quantities and at varying retail prices. The suggested retail prices for the limited-edition Van Winkle collection bottles are as follows (local taxes apply):

 

·       Old Rip Van Winkle Handmade Bourbon 10 Year Old - $149.99

This season’s 10YR ORVW bourbon balances classic sweetness with smoky sophistication. On the nose, aromas of vanilla, caramel, pecan, and seasoned oak meet warm tobacco and charred wood. The palate is smooth and rich with wheat, cherry, bold oak, and a hint of spice, leading to a long, smoky finish layered with oak, dark vanilla, and lingering warmth.

 

·       Van Winkle Special Reserve Bourbon 12 Year Old - $169.99

This unique batch brings a bolder, woodier edge to a bourbon known for its bright fruit and delicate spice. On the nose, aromas of oak, dried mango, cocoa, and spiced peach mingle with cherry and vanilla. The palate offers honey, tobacco, and dark fruit, evolving into stone fruit and cocoa. A dry, balanced finish lingers with oak, cherry, and gentle spice.

·       Van Winkle Family Reserve Rye 13 Year Old - $229.99

This seasonal batch builds on the soft, spiced elegance of the original with a richer, fruit-forward complexity. The nose welcomes you with roasted chestnut, vanilla, and subtle spice that is deepened by cherry, stone fruit, and warming oak. On the palate, layers of cocoa, white pepper, and vanilla meet a bold infusion of cherry and ripe stone fruits, balanced by oak and cedar. A long, warm finish lingers with caramel, spice, and dry oak.

·       Pappy Van Winkle’s Family Reserve Bourbon 15 Year Old - $239.99

This limited batch amplifies the 15YO signature sweetness with added depth. The nose is captivating with aromas of brown sugar, caramel corn, and vanilla mingle with wood and a hint of cherry. The palate is rich with leather, oak, and dark fruit, smoothed by brown sugar and lifted by cherry brightness. A long, dry finish leaves lingering spice, oak tannins, and a warming touch of fruit and sugar.

·       Pappy Van Winkle’s Family Reserve Bourbon 20 Year Old- $359.99

This special batch brings depth to a bourbon known for its intensity and elegance. The nose is vibrant with citrus zest and dried fruit joined by lush notes of plum and cherry. On the palate, smooth citrus and vanilla meet juicy stone fruit and hints of sherry, creating a beautifully balanced sip. The finish is long, elegant, and fruit-kissed leaving behind whispers of plum, cherry, and warm spice.

·       Pappy Van Winkle’s Family Reserve Bourbon 23 Year Old - $499.99

This batch turns up the intensity while staying true to the heart of the Pappy Van Winkle. The nose is bold and inviting leading with rich caramel and cream, joined by oak, leather, and a hit of ripe cherry. The palate is full and flavorful, with vanilla, honey, and maple leading the way, with a burst of cherry and a warming heat. The finish is long, oaky, and fruit-laced leaving behind notes of spice, sweetness, and the satisfying heat of a stronger pour.

 

“Those who follow this release year after year know it’s not just about whiskey, but about what it represents,” said Julian P. Van Winkle III, President, Old Rip Van Winkle Distillery. “This whiskey collection is a reflection of our family’s legacy and a tribute to the generations who came before us. The legacy, combined with anticipation, the stories shared over a pour, the appreciation for extended aging – that is what makes each release so special.”

 

The Van Winkle family reminds fans that neither they nor Buffalo Trace Distillery control the prices individual retailers charge for the expressions. The family also strongly recommends those interested in the Van Winkle Collection to purchase through a licensed retailer. Whiskey enthusiasts increase their risks of alcohol scams by purchasing from secondary markets and online sellers including Craigslist, eBay, and social media groups. Additionally, many alcohol scams take place overseas. In some cases, consuming alcohol that is not purchased from a licensed retailer can lead to bodily harm and even casualties.

Ingram Distillery New Wheated Boubon: Uncharted

 

The Ingram Distillery Ventures into the Unknownwith New Wheated Bourbon: Uncharted

Latest Addition to Ingram’s Award-Winning Fleet Packaged in 100% Recycled Glass

COLUMBUS, KY (September 3, 2025) – The Ingram Distillery is proud to unveil today its latest game-changing whiskey: Uncharted Kentucky Wheated Bourbon. Packaged in 100% recycled glass, Uncharted is a wheated bourbon that, like all Ingram whiskies, has spent its entire life on the Mississippi River. Here, it’s exposed to the constant motion, humidity and microclimate of the river to create complexity through a unique interaction between whiskey and oak.

Long known for its award-winning O.H. Ingram River Aged series, Uncharted is a completely new expression with a life and story of its own. Bottled at 92 proof, the product is available in both 750ml and 1L formats with suggested retail prices of $39.99 and $44.99, respectively. It’s a terrific compliment to The Ingram Distillery fleet.

“Uncharted is all about celebrating those unexpected adventures that happen every day,” said Founder and Proprietor Hank Ingram. “With Uncharted, we set out to craft a standout bourbon that could be enjoyed anytime. Like everything we do, we wanted to continue to innovate in the space and celebrate the magic of the river. Using 100% recycled glass is another way we are continuing to push the envelope on what’s possible. At The Ingram Distillery, we choose the route unexplored and aim to challenge the uncontested. Uncharted once again pushes us out into unknown waters – a place where we feel right at home.”

At this year’s International Wine and Spirits Competition, a blind sample of Uncharted wowed judges. It was

named one of the best wheated bourbons at the competition, receiving a Gold Medal and a score of 95 points.

Uncharted Tasting Notes

• Nose – dried fruit, vanilla, toasted nuts, and coffee

• Palate – graham cracker, honey, light spice with touches of maple and oak

• Finish – a long finish with caramel, cinnamon, apples and light notes of leather and cocoa

The launch of Uncharted continues The Ingram Distillery’s history of making waves in the bourbon world. Numerous awards and accolades have proven time and again that its unique aging process – one that harkens back to the earliest days of bourbon – produces extraordinary whiskey. The team is also currently reimagining its grounds in Columbus, KY and will soon debut the next phase of its hospitality offerings.

Inside the original floating barrelhouses, The Ingram Distillery whiskey barrels spend their years exposed tothe magic of the Mississippi River. The motion of the river, its high humidity, and natural daily heat cyclingensure that the whiskey never stops working. We call it Mellowed on the Mississippi.

2025 Yellowstone Limited Edition 10 Year Bourbon

 

Limestone Branch Distillery collaborates with Ross & Squibb Distillery on 2025

release of Yellowstone Limited Edition

ST. LOUIS (Sept. 2, 2025) – To celebrate a decade of excellence across its award-winning annual Limited Edition collection, Limestone Branch Distillery released its 2025 Yellowstone Limited Edition, a unique blend of straight bourbon whiskeys thoughtfully aged 10 years. The series debuted in 2015 to honor the finest spirits worthy of the Yellowstone Bourbon name.

In the pioneering spirit of Yellowstone Bourbon, Founder and Master Distiller Stephen Beam and the team at Limestone Branch Distillery collaborated with the blending team at Ross &  Squibb Distillery – one of the most historic distilleries in America – to create the 10 th anniversary release. For the first time, the combined team chose barrels from the Indiana and Kentucky distilleries to blend for this year’s unique and high-quality commemorative expression.

The 2025 release includes three unique mash bills aged 10 years and is bottled at 105 proof (52.5% ABV) in tribute to the debut of Yellowstone Limited Edition in 2015. An allocation of 10,000 (3-in) cases will be on shelf in September at retail and Limestone Branch Distillery, just in time for Bourbon Heritage Month, for a minimum suggested retail price of $99.99 per 750mL bottle.

“We’ve done something different with this special annual release every year since 2015,” said Beam. “This year’s 10-year anniversary Limited Edition represents my natural progression of experimenting with blending, using three unique mash bills to create a remarkable product. In partnership with the Ross & Squibb team, we pushed the boundaries of innovation by creating our first blend featuring barrels from the Indiana and Kentucky distilleries – without compromising on our commitment to quality that has kept the Yellowstone Bourbon brand on shelf for more than 150 years.”

The 2025 Yellowstone Limited Edition release features an aroma of vanilla, oak and hints of citrus. The body includes tastes of rich caramel, vanilla, toffee and hints of stone fruit on the palate, and a lingering finish of charred oak with notes of honey, cherry and cinnamon.

Limestone Branch Distillery collaborates with Ross & Squibb Distillery on 2025 release of Yellowstone Limited Edition Presented in a custom-designed embossed Yellowstone Limited Edition bottle, the 2025 anniversary edition features a high-quality natural cork, and a unique black and gold label highlighting the bold 10-year age statement, anniversary details and Beam’s signature.

The 2024 Yellowstone Limited Edition release earned gold medals at the 2025 ASCOT Awards and San Francisco World Spirits Competition.

Hooten Young Bottled In Bond Bourbon

 

Norm Hooten, US Army MSG (Ret) is a co-founder of the Hooten Young Whiskey brand.  He is a real-life hero who not only spent time on the battle lines but also in the battle of the opioid crisis as a pharmacist for the Department of Veterans Affairs.  They take patriotism very seriously, committing to support non-profit organizations for veterans and the military.

Like many iconic brands, this one started with a dicussiopn and a "what if" dream by a fire.  As whiskey and cigar enthusiasts, Hooten and his small team knew what they wanted to do and where they wanted to go.  And so eventually the Hooten Young brand was born and they are building a legacy to last a lifetime.

This is the second expression from Hooten Young that we have had the pleasure of tasting.  This is their Bottled-in-Bond Kentucky Straight Bourbon.  We have long been fans of BiB bourbon, partly because of the specific guidelines imposed by Uncle Sam that allow a distillery to bestow the Bottled-in-Bond label.  

We tasted this neat and it quickly put a smile on our faces.  Subtly sweet from beginning to end, the chestnut colored whiskey provided us with apple spice cake, toffee, peppercorn and hints of eucalyptus on the nose.   First sips introduced us to layers of caramel, brown sugar and cinnamon toast, allspice, white pepper and baked earth.  While we don't smoke, the folks at HY recommend pairing this with one of their Ma Deuce Cigars and sipping this slowly with friends.  We think that's a fine idea.

You can use code DRINKTHEBOTTLES at checkout for free shipping from their website!

ABV:  50.0% (100 proof)

Distillery:  MGP Ingredients for Hooten Young

Suggested retail price:  $41.99

Drink The Bottles score:  92/100

Penelope Bourbon 2025 Estate Collection Lineup

Penelope Bourbon introduces the 2025 Estate Collection

Highly anticipated collection showcases higher age statements, new innovation and increased allocations across each release

St. Louis (August 21, 2025) - Award-winning Penelope Bourbon announced its 2025 Estate Collection - a bold array of five distinct expressions with minimum age statements of 10 years - for fans of premium and ultra-premium straight bourbon whiskey.  The expanded collection includes a reimagined Founders Reserve Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, the introduction of new Omega Straight Bourbon Whiskey finished in Omega French Oak barrels, and the award-winning Single Barrel and Private Selection bourbons.  

This release includes:

Penelope Founders Reserve 13 Year Kentucky Straight Bourbon - MSRP $199.99

Cask strength 121.4 proof (60.7% ABV) with a mash bill of 78% corn, 10% rye and 12 % malted barley.

Penelope Omega 11 Year Straight Bourbon Whiskey - MSRP $129.99

109.8 proof (54.9% ABV) with a mash bill of 78% corn, 10% rye and 12% malted barley.

Penelope Single Barrel 10 Year Bourbon - MSRP $89.99

This 99 proof (49.5% ABV) has a mash bill of 75% corn, 21% rye and 4% malted barley.

Penelope Private Stock 10 Year Bourbon - MSRP $79.99

106.8 proof (53.4% ABV) offering has a mash bill of 74% corn, 20% rye, 1% wheat and 5% malted barley.

If we receive samples of these we will provide full reviews!

 

Penelope Bourbon Debuts Ready-to-Pour Black Walnut Old Fashioned

Penelope Bourbon extends its line of award-winning ready-to-pour offerings with Black Walnut Old Fashioned

Latest release in the red-hot segment expands Penelope’s range of convenient and high-quality bottled cocktail offerings

ST. LOUIS (Aug. 6, 2025) - On the heels of its successful debut in the ready-to-pour market with its first-ever bottled cocktail, Peach Old Fashioned, Penelope Bourbon released its second award-winning handcrafted cocktail innovation - Black Walnut Old Fashioned. Perfect for summer occasions from backyard soirees to casual moments at home, Black Walnut Old Fashioned is Penelope's latest modern take on the favorite classic cocktail.

Penelope doubles its footprint in the robust ready-to-pour market with the addition of Black Walnut Old Fashioned. This premium bottled cocktail is crafted with Penelope Bourbon's signature commitment to quality and craftmanship. Black Walnut Old Fashioned features hand selected award-winning Penelope straight bourbon and rye whiskey blended with black walnut bitters and vanilla demerara, a rich and flavorful raw sugar with light traces of molasses for a warm caramel flavor. The result is an expertly crafted cocktail made for effortless enjoyment.

Bottled at 76 proof (38% ABV), Penelope Black Walnut Old Fashioned is available nationwide starting in August for a minimum suggested retail price of $29.99. The new variety is presented in Penelope's distinctive white matte 750mL ready-to-pour cocktail bottle with deep, rich walnut-colored bottle lettering.

"The ready-to-pour market is exciting territory for us, and we're innovating again with Black Walnut Old Fashioned - our latest unique take on the classic cocktail," said Michael Paladini, Penelope Bourbon founder and vice president of strategy for MGP Ingredients.

Penelope's latest unique take on the classic Old Fashioned opens with an aroma of warm vanilla, with hints of maple, allspice and cocoa. Tasting notes include fresh brown sugar followed by light allspice, cinnamon and vanilla on the palate with a finish of velvety toffee, hints of nut and lingering caramel.

"Black Walnut Old Fashioned is a great variation of the Old Fashioned that we love. Using our bourbon and rye blend as the foundation for this release creates an amazing base for a whiskey forward cocktail," said Danny Polise, founder and master blender of Penelope Bourbon. "We hope all will enjoy how easy it can be to experience a delicious Penelope cocktail."

Both Black Walnut Old Fashioned and Peach Old Fashioned recently earned platinum medals in the Pre-Mixed Cocktail category at the 2025 ASCOT Awards.

Yellowstone Bourbon Ready-to-Serve Canned Cocktails

 

 Yellowstone Bourbon Launches Ready-to-Serve Cocktails

The New Collection of Premium Cocktails Offers Three Distinct Bourbon-Based Expressions That Blend the Brand’s 150-Year Heritage With Convenience and Sustainability

ST. LOUIS, (August 5, 2025) - Today, Yellowstone Bourbon, the historic bourbon brand known for its rich Kentucky heritage, announced the launch of Yellowstone Cocktails, a new offering of premium ready-to-serve cocktails. Made with award-winning Yellowstone Kentucky Straight Bourbon and all-natural ingredients, Yellowstone Cocktails feature modern flavors to meet the needs and tastes of today’s whiskey-drinkers, and cater to the increased demand of consumers looking for convenient, high-quality and spirits-based ready-to-serve options. 

Yellowstone Cocktails offer a versatile and elevated drinking experience rooted in 150 years of bourbon expertise. Dating back to 1872 when it was first distilled by Joseph Dant as a tribute to America’s first national park, Yellowstone Bourbon has become known for its smooth, high-quality whiskey while embracing innovation in making premium small-batch bourbons. Crafted under the supervision of Stephen Beam, seventh-generation Master Distiller at Limestone Branch Distillery, home of Yellowstone Bourbon, Yellowstone Cocktails are designed for those who appreciate and expect quality with ease. 

“We created Yellowstone Cocktails to bring the rich character of our bourbon into flavorful, ready-to-serve formats that fit into the on-the-go lifestyle of today’s consumer,” said Beam. “Each expression is designed to highlight the depth and versatility of our whiskey, and offers an effortless way to enjoy a quality cocktail wherever the moment takes you.”

Every bottle delivers a bold, bourbon-forward taste in a convenient, shareable 750mL format, equivalent to six standard cocktails. The lineup of Yellowstone Cocktails includes:

• Gold Rush: A rush of fig honey, and lemon—this cocktail combines classic flavors with a fresh, modern twist. The sweetness of fig honey is balanced by the brightness of fresh lemon, offering a sophisticated yet contemporary experience. (ABV 25%, SRP $24.99)

• Old Fashioned: The Old Fashioned combines blood orange, bitters, and cherry for a refreshing take on a classic. The bright tang of blood orange adds a lively contrast to the bitters, while the rich cherry finish brings a touch of sweetness and depth. (ABV 35%, SRP $24.99)

• Espresso: A perfect kick of coffee, vanilla, and raisin, this bourbon-based, ready-to-serve espresso drink combines the rich, robust flavor of espresso with the smoothness of bourbon, creating a bold, indulgent treat for coffee lovers. The warmth of vanilla and raisin add depth and complexity to every sip. (ABV 25%, SRP $24.99)

True to Yellowstone Bourbon’s values, the cocktails were crafted with the intention to be enjoyed in moments outside - whether that be in a national park or in your local city park - and with sustainability at heart. Each lightweight, spill-proof bottle is made using clean energy and packaged in fully recyclable materials, allowing drinkers to savor the great outdoors while helping to preserve it. Since 2018, Yellowstone Bourbon has partnered with the National Parks Conservation Association (NPCA) in a shared mission to protect our nation’s public lands. Over the past seven years, the brand has donated $1,000,000 to help preserve national parks and inspire the next generation of park advocates.

"As a company, we are proud of our ongoing commitment to sustainability and our partnership with the NPCA,” added Beam. "We believe in protecting the lands that inspired our brand, and with the launch of Yellowstone Cocktails, we aim to continue that commitment by offering a product that allows people to enjoy our bourbon in a convenient and eco-conscious way.”

Yellowstone Cocktails will be rolling out on shelves at select retailers nationwide and will be available online, at a suggested retail price of $24.99.

We can't wait to get our hands on these and share our thoughts with you!

Rebel 10 Year Single Barrel Bourbon

We were very fortunate to taste this latest release from a 100mL sample bottle. Historically, media samples that are less than a full size bottle can be much different in taste, but not always. This selection didn't list the barrel number, but we couldn't wait to dig in! The mash bill is 68% corn, 20% wheat and 12% malt.

Carmelized sugar color with dominant citrus aromas that were tangy and bright. Some time in the glass and additional swirling brought cinnamon, nutmeg and oak to the nose. Full of flavor, this rugged specimen showed us citrus fruit basket, sweet vanilla pudding, cashew nut and spice cabinet, leading to a very memorable and solid finish.

Rebel Bourbon produces about six different varieties currently, and to date, they have all been super solid in our opinion. This is another feather in the cap for Master Distiller John Rempe and a nod to the consistently quality whiskey that Rebel continues to bring to market. Well done!

On a side note, this bourbon has won some very impressive industry awards recently, including:

• Double Platinum at the 2025 ASCOT Awards
• Double Gold at the 2025 San Francisco World Spirits Competition
• Double Gold and Consumer's Choice at the SIP Awards
• Gold and Single Barrel American Whiskey of the Year at the 2025 Bartender Spirits Awards

There were 2,600 cases (6 bottles each) produced of this limited edition whiskey!

 

ABV:  50.0% (100 proof)

Distillery:  Lux Row Distillers

Suggested retail price:  $99.99

Drink The Bottles score:  94/100

Augusta Distillery Buckner's Single Barrel 13 Year Bourbon

Every so often, when the timing is right and the aging process is exactly where they want it to be, Augusta Distillery releases their Buckner's Single Barrel 13 Year Bourbon.  There are two things you should know about this bourbon; it is delicious and it always sells out - quickly!  The bottle we are tasting today has a "bonus" to it if are a proof hound, because this one is just a tick away from being considered a hazmat bottle.  Let's get into it...

Reddish brown with streaks of burgundy throughout the bottle and Glencairn.  The packaging is eye-catching (yes folks, that matters) and this is one of those bottles that makes your heart skip a half of a beat when you see it in the wild.  

The nose gives vibes of an old dusty bookstore, damp country road, grilling spices and buttercream frosting.  Tasted neat, we uncovered flavors of roasted nuts, cigar smoke, pecan pie filling and a peppery goodness.  Underlying interests of homemade vanilla ice cream and caramel sauce swirled around before coming to an extremely long and lingering finish that the proof chasers will appreciate.

For reference, this was bottle #10 from barrel #420.  Don't let the price tag deter you.  This is a very special bottle and again, it is a SINGLE barrel.  There are other producers selling you 13 year, twenty-plus barrel blends for the same or higher prices.  You don't want to sit on this one.  Find it ...... NOW!

ABV:  69.75% (139.5 proof)

Distillery:  Augusta Distillery

Suggested retail price:  $229.99

Drink The Bottles score:  94/100

 

First West Toasted Oak Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey

 

We have long been fans of what Rick and Ricky Johnson are doing over at 15 Stars Bourbon.  They have always focused on rich, exciting flavors and their blending is second to none.  There has never been a release that we have tasted where we weren't instant fans.  So, when we found out that they were releasing a new label - First West - that included some of their own distillate in the blend, we jumped at the opportunity to give this some attention.

This is the First West Toasted Oak Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, a blend of 5, 6, and 7 year old bourbons, which is really impressive for a first-release label.  The Johnsons have included some of their bourbon that they personally crafted from their proprietary red, white and blue corns, making this, at least for us, a much-anticipated and welcome new phase of their business.

We were immediately impressed by the packaging of this bourbon.  The initial releases in the First West series also include a Small Batch Bourbon and and Extra Aged Bourbon, all bottled in historic-era (recycled) blue glass, creating a more authentic approach to the Old West and the early days of distilled spirits.

This bourbon was a lot of fun to try and figure out.  It kept evolving with more air time in the glass.  Initially we discovered stone fruits, peppercorn, and banana bread, eventually leading to vanillas bean and cherry.  A drop of water really changes things!  The hard cherry candy flavor persisted from beginning to end, bringing along soft caramel chews, fruit basket and dried earth.  While the finish wasn't particularly long, it was very pleasing with the cherry candy, sweet tobacco, and ripe fruits with an oaky backbone.  The proof makes this a very easy drinker and we can't wait to get our hands on the other expressions in this series.

ABV:  49.0% (98 proof)

Distillery:  15 Stars Bourbon

Suggested retail price:  $69.99

Drink The Bottles score:  92/100

New Weller Ultra-Aged Whiskey Expressions from Buffalo Trace Distillery

 

Frankfort, KY (July 25, 2025) - Buffalo Trace Distillery is thrilled to announce two super-premium wheat whiskey innovations from the Original Wheated Bourbon brand, including the second edition of Weller Millennium, comprising a new blend of ultra-aged wheat whiskeys; and Weller 18 Year Old, the brand's oldest age statement to date.  Meticulously crafted to push the boundaries of maturation and blending, these releases boldly demonstrate the exceptional aging potential and versatility of wheat in American whiskey production.

Produced at The World's Most Award-Winning Distillery, both innovations celebrate the original wheated bourbon reciped pioneered by William Larue Weller in 1847.  At a time when rye and corn dominated the market, Weller's use of the more delicate wheat grain - primarily a food crop - resulted in a smoother, sweeter whiskey that set his whiskeys apart.  These latest expressions honor Weller's legacy of innovation as Buffalo Trace Distillery continues its ongoing exploration of wheat in pursuit of crafting the world's best whiskey.

Weller Millennium #2:  Following the inaugural Weller Millennium released in May 2024, the second edition presents a newly-crafted blend of vintage straight wheated bourbon and wheat whiskeys.  Consistent with its predecessor, each component was distilled at Buffalo Trace Distillery in 2001, 2003, and 2006 and set aside for the sole purpose of creating this extraordinary blend in tribute of one of its forebearers, W.L. Weller.  By thoughtfully blending these individually distinct whiskeys, the resulting spirit attains a depth and complexity that transcends the sum of its parts.

"Weller Millennium was crafted to feature some of the first whiskeys distilled in the new millennium amid a period of transformation at Buffalo Trace Distillery.  This second edition takes last year's release a step further, with a new blend that we humbly believe is an improvement over the well-regarded first edition," said Andrew Duncan, Global Brand Director, Buffalo Trace Distillery.  "By carefully selecting and blending barrels dating back to the early 2000's, we have revisited a chapter in the distillery's history that shaped who we are today."

The second edition of Weller Millennium offers a balance of dark cherry, rich butterscotch and warm vanilla that unfolds over layers of well-aged oak.  The finish is bold and enduring, culimating in an oak-forward crescendo that leaves a lasting impression.  Suggested retail price is $7,500 for the 750ml hand-crafted crystal decanter.

Weller 18 Year Old:  As the oldest age stated whiskey in the Weller portfolio, Weller 18 Year Old brings exceptional grace and depth as an ultra-aged, 90 proof wheat whiskey.  This new release stands as a testament to the distillery's dedication to innovation, demonstrating that Kentucky-aged whiskey can mature beautifully well beyond more commonly seen age statements.

"Weller 18 Year Old is the culmination of curiosity, tradition and time," said Harley Wheatley, Master Distillery, Buffalo Trace Distillery.  "The softness of the wheat has evolved into something rich and wonderfully expressive.  We are extremely proud of the resulting whiskey, which showcases the versatility and potential of a wheat-forward mashbill."

On the nose, the whiskey reveals notes of delicately aged fruits and tobacco.  The palate offers a harmonious balance of warm baking spices and crisp green pear, delivering depth without overwhelming, and leads to a lasting finish.

This 700ml handrafted crystal decanter carries a suggested retail price of $499 and will be available via Global Travel Retail at airports including LAX, JFK adn LHR.

Bardstown Bourbon Company Hokkaido Mizunara Oak Barrel Finish Whiskey

Bardstown Bourbon Company is known for their unique offerings that set them apart from every other distillery in the United States.  It seems that there isn't anything they won't try and if you're a finished whiskey fan, BBC is definitely in your wheelhouse!  Once in awhile, this innovative and forward-thinking company issues a distillery-only release, which is the case with this Hokkaido Mizunara Oak Barrel Finish blend of whiskeys.

Mizunara Oak trees grow twisted in the hardest-to-reach corners of Japan.  The wood is incredibly rare and highly acclaimed for many industries.  This incredibly rare whiskey was comprised of just SIX barrels of Mizunara Oak, aged for 28 months to provide the unique and unforgettable flavors in this 375mL bottle.  The whiskeys that make up this incredible blend carry age statements from nine to fifteen years, each with it's own unique mash bill.

Blend            Origin            Age            Mash Bill

47%               KY              15 Yr           75% Corn, 13% Rye, 12% Malted Barley

33%               KY              14 Yr           78% Corn, 10% Rye, 4% Malted Barley

15%               IN                9 Yr             45% Corn, 51% Rye, 4% Malted Barley

5%                 TN              18 Yr            84% Corn, 8% Rye, 8% Malted Barley

We lept at the opportunity to taste and share our thoughts on such a small batch, highly anticipated release.  Saddle brown color with flashes of ripe berries when touched by light, this bottle is oozing with aromas of toffee, roasted nuts, Kentucky butter cake and oak.  Unique and mouthwatering, flavors of brown butter, vanilla, Three Musketeers candy bar, toasted S'mores and baking spices round out the evolving and changing flavor profile.  On the sweeter side from beginning to end, this has a rich mouthfeel that quickly puts a satisfying smile on your face.

If there was a down side to this bottle, it is that it can only be found at the Bardstown Bourbon Company  distillery gift shop and Louisville tasting room while it lasts.  But the hunt is half of the fun, isn't it?  This bottle was absolutely exceptional!

ABV:  54.65% (109.3 proof)

Distillery:  Bardstown Bourbon Company

Suggested retail price:  $99.99

Drink The Bottles score:  95/100