2017

There are a few common themes on Bourbonr. Things like limited editions and release maps have become synonymous with Bourbon. I don’t love what limited edition bourbons have become. But, I still want to keep Bourbonr as a resource for those that use the maps. I’d much rather focus on things like blind tastings and available bourbon options. Because of that, I’m starting a new blind tasting series. This will be a live video series with the results posted on the blog. The first live reveal and review is this Wednesday, October 11th, at 9 EST. This should be an entertaining format so would love for you to join us! read more

The 2017 Four Roses Small Batch Limited Edition (SmBLE) was a bonus. Four Roses already released the Al Young 50th Anniversary Limited Edition in the summer of 2017. I thought that was going to replace the 2017 SmBLE. But, to the excitement of most Bourbonr, Four Roses decided to release the SmBLE anyways. This year’s release is a blend of a 15-year-old OESK, a 13-year-old OESK and a 12-year-old OESV. If you’re unfamiliar with what the letters stand for, here is a cheat sheet. read more

I know what you’re thinking. This is the third BTAC post in less than 10 days! It’s easy to get burned out by the fall bourbon craziness. I promise, aside from the map updates, this is the last BTAC post for a while. In this post I reviewed all five 2017 Buffalo Trace Antique Collection Whiskeys. These samples were provided by Buffalo Trace. read more

Please Read: Each state is highlighted when one bottle is reported in that state. There’s a good chance that means that store, and a lot of times that city, is already sold out. This map isn’t an official release tracker from Buffalo Trace. This is a network of bourbon drinkers looking to help each other. Stores are dealing with smaller allocations and greatly increased demand. Please be understanding of this fact. Happy Hunting! read more

FRANKFORT, FRANKLIN COUNTY, KY (Sept. 19, 2017) Whiskey lovers rejoice, Buffalo Trace Distillery is releasing its 2017 Antique Collection. The highly anticipated collection will once again feature five limited-release whiskeys of various ages, recipes and proofs. Master Distiller Harlen Wheatley notes, “The team had another great year with the Antique Collection.  From distillation, to barrel selection, to bottling, this year’s collection showed very well.  I was particularly excited about the William Larue Weller with its extra richness, and the Eagle Rare 17 seemed more rounded and full of flavor.  None of these disappointed.” read more

It’s always good to see bourbon going to a good cause! This is a scenario where I hope that bottles are sold at secondary prices. So far, no word on when and where the bottles will be sold. I’ll keep you posted.

Here is the response I received about how the bottles will be sold:

The last remaining bottles of Booker’s Rye will be released to the field in a manner consistent with any limited product release. Bottles have been allocated among our distribution partners, who will manage their placement in a limited number of markets over the coming weeks. Consumers interested in finding a bottle should contact their local specialty whiskey retailer. 100% of Beam’s proceeds from the sale of the bottles to our distribution partners will be donated. read more

It seems like a question we’ve already answered on Bourbonr. But, after a couple of conversations on several social media outlets this weekend a refresher is important. Remember, the federal government regulates the term “bourbon”. It’s the responsibility of the TTB to enforce these regulations. Here we go: read more

I missed an important date last Saturday. August 26th was the four year anniversary of the Bourbonr blog. It’s hard to believe I’ve been writing the blog for four years. But, Bourbonr has become so ingrained in my life, at times, it seems like I’ve been doing it for even longer than four years. In an educational setting, I would’ve graduated and been on to new horizons after four years. Maybe that’s why I’ve had so many rum posts on social media recently :). For now, I’ll stick to bourbon! While I consider myself knowledgeable, there’s still so much about bourbon I’ve yet to explore. And, taste! read more

Almost four years ago I created my first distillery mash bill breakdown for Buffalo Trace. There have been several changes since then. I decided it was time for an updated and expanded version. I’ve tried to focus on whiskeys that are distilled (at least once) at Buffalo Trace distillery. The Buffalo Trace/Sazerac/Age International/Barton brand(s) is an intricate web. read more

Come join me in Northern Kentucky at Taste of the Decades. As you can see below, the bottle selection is insane. Mix in great food, great bourbon and a great cause this event is well worth the money. Let me know if you can make it (or, are in the area). I’d love to set up some sort of informal Bourbonr meet up the night before the tasting. Tickets just went on sale today and are available here. read more