You may remember that we launched the new BourbonHunt site last summer as a way to add more features for the Bourbonr readers. As I’m sure, you’ve noticed, nothing about Bourbonr has changed nor will it change in the future. BourbonHunt and the “pro” membership is a completely separate site with its own benefits. I greatly appreciated everyone that decided to support Bourbonr with a “pro” membership.
New bourbon and whiskey brands are popping up across the country. Before bottling each brand must receive approval of their label from the Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB). Below are the approved labels from yesterday.
George Dickel receives approval for what appears to be their new private barreling labels. George Dickel Private barrels are often underrated in my opinion. While I wish the “14 years” on the rye label was an actual release I have a feeling that may just be a placeholder. Maker’s Mark receives approval for their 20th charity bottle. This release features legendary University Kentucky basketball coach, Joe B. Hall and benefits the UK Center for Academic and Tutorial Services. As a Florida fan I’m sure there’s a joke there somewhere but I’ll hold back for now. Woodford Reserve had a busy day. They received approval for a makeover of their small batch anddouble oaked bourbon
This is for the Floridian Bourbonrs. Or, the Bourbonr’s will to travel for great whiskey. The Orlando Whiskey Fest will be held April 16th. I’ll be there so I’d love to meet some of y’all in person. The event is run by a great group of guys that are passionate about whiskey and putting on a high-quality event. Here is the main reason I’ve decided to help promote this event “* All net proceeds to benefit The Lovely Project.“ It’s great to see events using their platform to support a cause.
Happy Friday Bourbonr’s!
This isn’t an in-depth, educational post. A friend of mine recently reminded me of the great orator Judge Noah S. “Soggy” Sweat and his “Whiskey Speech” so I decided to share it with you. This is a post to listen to and enjoy on a Friday afternoon while drinking whiskey. This is how I feel about whiskey:
This is an updated version of the previous Four Roses by Mash Bill post. The new version is easier to read and also includes the years for each limited edition release. If you’re interested in a PDF copy you can download it for free in the Bourbonr Store.
First, let’s decipher the four letters that make up a Four Roses mash bill.
Today Diageo received approval for a barrel proof version of their popular Bulleit bourbon. The details are still pretty scarce on this one. This release isn’t a surprising one since barrel proof releases have increased in popularity over the last 5-7 years. Consumers love a higher proof and brands can charge double for a 30% decrease in production. It’s a win for everyone.
It seemed poetic that the Distilled Spirits Council released their annual report on Groundhogs day. I almost copy and pasted my post from the 2014 report to save time from typing out the same information. Visit any bourbon bar or new craft distillery and you’ll know bourbon is booming. Check your local liquor store and you’ll find five new brands in the “super premium” category. The empirical data is evident but it’s still interesting to take a look at the actual numbers.
The simple answer is pour, sip, repeat. However, taking your time to pick up on different flavor notes in a bourbon helps you expand and improve your knowledge. Tasting bourbon is a skill and with any skill you only get better with practice (this is why I insist on practicing every night :)). Time to get started with the criteria for a good bourbon tasting.
I know what you’re thinking. No, this isn’t another post about the Pappy heist. This is a PSA for the Bourbonr community. Make sure you destroy all empty bottles of Pappy Van Winkle and other limited releases [insert joke about people not drinking Pappy]. As prices increase scoundrels will find their way into the bourbon market. Fake Pappy isn’t a matter of if but when. I’m sure it’s currently happening at some level but luckily it doesn’t seem to be a huge issue. Guys will refill empty bottles, reseal them and sell them for secondary prices. Why else would someone pay hundreds of dollars for an empty bottle? The scotch industry has already experienced this problem. Collectors were shocked to find that their rare/antique bottles of Macallan were actually fakes.
This past summer Heaven Hill doubled down on the rise of rye whiskey and released Pikesville Straight Rye. “Pikesville” the name can trace it’s lineage back to Maryland in the 1895’s. Stories are cool. A great product is even cooler.
First, some details about Pikesville Straight Rye. It’s a 6 year, 110 proof whiskey that retails for around $50-$60. The Heaven Hill rye mash bill is estimated to be 23/65/12 corn/rye/barley.