Afleveringen
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Todd flies solo this week on The Bourbon Road, welcoming back Rick and Ricky Johnson of 15 Stars Bourbon for their third appearance on the show. The father-and-son team behind one of Kentucky's most decorated independent blending operations returns to walk through the newly revamped First West lineup — four expressions that mark a landmark moment for the brand: the first releases to feature whiskey distilled entirely by the 15 Stars team, including juice made from their proprietary heirloom corns. Rick and Ricky share the full origin story of why they got into the business, how a single black popcorn corn variety sparked the whole journey, and why patient, fully mature whiskey and obsessive flavor-proofing sit at the core of everything they do.
The conversation covers the philosophy behind blending for the best possible flavor rather than chasing a predetermined profile, the surprisingly visual experience of fermenting black corn (picture a literal witch's brew), the distinct flavor contributions of red, white, blue, and black heirloom corns, and why filtration matters just as much as proof when it comes to mouthfeel. Rick teases a very limited, very old upcoming release and an exclusive cigar-blend expression set to debut at the Kentucky Bourbon Festival — and Todd can barely contain himself.
On the Tasting Mat:
- First West Explorer: A five-grain wheated bourbon blending 15 Stars' own six-year-old black corn mashbill (70% black corn, 18% wheat, 12% malted barley) with a five-year-old yellow corn mashbill (70% corn, 18% rye, 12% malted barley). Bottled at 95 proof and retailing around $49.99, this is the first 15 Stars release made entirely from juice they distilled themselves. Expect meringue-level dessert sweetness, buttery vanilla wafer, caramel corn, and a distinctive peppery finish that traces directly back to the black corn. *(00:12:57)*
- First West Small Batch: A six-grain blend anchored by 15 Stars' proprietary red, white, and blue corn mashbill — all three distilled together — combined with two separate yellow corn bourbon mashbills. Maximum 25 barrels per batch, bottled at 102 proof and retailing around $59.99. The red, white, and blue corn entry sits at 103 proof into the barrel. Softer and more fruit-forward than the Explorer, with dark cherry pie, citrus lift, and rich caramel on the palate. *(00:26:27)*
- First West Toasted Oak: Built on a base very similar to the Small Batch, then finished in two distinct toasted oak profiles simultaneously — 60% in a sweeter caramel-and-maple profile, 40% in a more oak-forward profile — before the two portions are recombined. Bottled at 98 proof and retailing around $69.99. The toast adds depth and richness without overwhelming the underlying bourbon character; the nose delivers a satisfying layered complexity of toasted wood and the fruit-forward notes of the base blend. *(00:39:13)*
- First West Extra Aged: The only expression in the First West line without heirloom corns, and the only one featuring a high-malted-barley mashbill (at roughly 10% of the blend). A blend of three different eight- and nine-year-old bourbons, bottled at 110 proof (confirmed from label review). Retails around $79.99. The extra barrel time delivers elegance and softness: grain character has receded and rich barrel influence steps forward, with plum, dark stewed fruits, orange marmalade, and a full-bodied depth anchored by that malted barley accent. *(00:58:17)*
First West is available at retail in approximately 20 states across the eastern United States, with select availability at the Bardstown Bourbon Company distillery. All four expressions — and additional 15 Stars and Kentucky County releases — can be ordered online at 15stars.com with shipping to 43 states. Stay current with new releases and early announcements by signing up for Ricky's personal newsletter at the 15 Stars website, or follow the brand on Facebook and Instagram at @15StarsBourbon. -
Welcome back to the Bourbon Road Bar, where Jim and Todd settle in for a five-bottle session packed with limited releases, aged expressions, and a little bit of everything the whiskey world has to offer right now. Tonight's lineup spans wheat whiskey, high-rye bourbon, east-coast rye, and some serious Beam family heavy-hitters — all barrel strength, all worthy of serious attention.
On the Tasting Mat:
- Makers Mark Star Hill Farms Wheat Whiskey 2026: A 116.4-proof wheat whiskey bottled at 700ml, featuring a revised mash bill of 62% malted wheat, 27% wheat, and 11% malted barley — including undisclosed amounts of hard red and hard white wheat, plus experimental barrels pulled from three warehouses with a 20-point proof swing. Aged 7–8 years. The nose opens with earthy cherry, turkey figs, and dark fruit, while the palate delivers an oily, velvety texture with baking spices, vanilla, and a distinctive wheat whiskey bite on the back of the palate. MSRP $100. *(00:01:48)*
- New Riff 10 Year Bourbon 2026: Bottled at 116.9 proof from a mash bill of 65% corn, 30% rye, and 5% malted barley, this Kentucky bourbon offers a nose of caramel, vanilla, and baking spices with a hint of root beer. On the palate, a honeyed peach and dried apricot character emerges alongside tobacco, leather, and mature oak — drying toward the finish with impressive length. Available at New Riff Distillery and to whiskey club members. MSRP $89.99. *(00:09:50)*
- New Riff 10 Year Rye 2026: A 95% rye, 5% malted barley mash bill bottled at 118.8 proof, this east-coast rye comes in at the same price point of $89.99. The nose is immediately striking — spearmint, pine forest, citrus zest, and dried orange. The palate is exceptionally thick and viscous, carrying the mint and zest through with clove, pine nut, and a cooling quality that gives way to a long, peppery oak finish. Available at New Riff Distillery and to whiskey club members. *(00:17:00)*
- Little Book Chapter 10 "All the Wiser" 2026: Freddie Noe's tenth Little Book chapter is an homage to the beloved Chapter 3 "The Road Home," blending 11-year Knob Creek, 14-year Basil Hayden, 10-year Booker's, 9-year Baker's, and a 4-year Jim Beam finished in sherry and toasted casks — all uncut at 122.6 proof. The nose is rich and mahogany-dark with vanilla, nuttiness, and a subtle sherry influence. The palate is decadent: dark Luxardo cherry, chocolate, snicker-like nuttiness, molasses, and a long, spicy, sizzling finish that simply refuses to leave. MSRP $160 for 750ml. *(00:27:17)*
- Booker's 2026-01 "Big Easy Batch": The first Booker's batch of 2026, named in honor of Booker Noe's legendary love of New Orleans, is aged 7 years, 2 months, and 15 days at a big 129.1 proof. Mash bill is 77% corn, 13% rye, and 10% malted barley. The nose presents caramel apple, green apple, and pie crust. On the palate, a perfectly cooked caramel apple pie character develops with a noticeable fruitiness that runs a bit off the typical Booker's nutty profile — finishing with warmth and spice. MSRP $100 for 750ml. *(00:37:14)*
Five barrel-strength pours, two distilleries, and one very tough call at the end — this is the kind of evening that makes the Bourbon Road Bar worth pulling up a stool for. Whether you're hunting shelf staples or chasing limited releases, tonight's lineup has something to put on your radar. As always, check out the full tasting notes and scores over at TheBourbon Road.com, and we'll see you down the Bourbon Road. -
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Welcome back to The Bourbon Road, recording live from the Bourbon Road Bar in Simpsonville, Kentucky — better known as Jim's basement. Episode 502 brings another overflowing tasting mat, proof that the samples just keep arriving faster than the boys can pour them. This week the lineup spans the full spectrum, from a brand-new family-founded label making its debut on the show to a beloved Illinois estate distillery, a coveted gift-shop-only release from a Northern Kentucky craft powerhouse, a toasted double oak expression from one of Owensboro's finest, and a bonus pour courtesy of a longtime Roadie friend from Ohio — a beer-world icon that crossed over into whiskey and never looked back.
On the Tasting Mat:
- Wooler Whiskey Kentucky Straight Bourbon (Batch 054): A four-grain, five-year-old small batch Kentucky straight bourbon bottled at 90 proof for $39.99. The mash bill runs 72% corn, 18% rye, 5% wheat, and 5% malted barley, distilled in Bardstown and finished in a number three char new American oak barrel. The nose opens with a pleasant graininess reminiscent of granola or muesli, accented by honey and the faintest dusting of cinnamon. The palate delivers a sweet, full-mouth experience with caramel, vanilla, and a gentle wheat-driven tingle on the finish. A welcoming, approachable bourbon from a family brand founded by Jason Wooler — built on resilience after a life-changing stroke. *(00:01:58)*
- Whiskey Acres 7-Year Bourbon: Estate-distilled in DeKalb, Illinois, this 107-proof small batch blends 12 barrels aged between seven and eight years. The mash bill is 75% yellow dent corn, 15% soft red winter wheat, and 10% malted barley, with an MSRP of $74.99. The nose leads with green apple and caramel, evoking a candy-apple at a county fair. On the palate the soft winter wheat delivers a notably smooth texture, with spice building on the back, a whisper of oak and clove on the finish, and a subtle savory note that sets it apart. Whiskey Acres grows every grain themselves — a true seed-to-spirit operation and the show's 2025 Craft Distillery of the Year. *(00:10:22)*
- New Riff Silver Grove Bourbon (2026 Release): The inaugural release under the Silver Grove label, this gift-shop-exclusive expression from New Riff Distilling in Newport, Kentucky is aged a minimum of six years and bottled at 116.4 proof for $59.99. Barrels were specifically selected for flavor profiles not typically found in New Riff's standard four- and six-year releases. The nose bursts with spice cake, bright cherry, and a morning-bun sweetness. The palate delivers a bold, full-mouth impact — honey-caramel richness layered with dark berry, cherry, and a long, warming finish. Available exclusively at the New Riff gift shop or via online order for in-store pickup. *(00:20:41)*
- Green River Distillery Select Toasted Double Oak Bourbon: The oldest expression ever released by Green River Distilling Company in Owensboro, Kentucky, this eight-year bourbon is bottled at 115.1 proof in a 375ml format for $49.99 and is available only at the distillery gift shop or the Louisville tasting room. The mash bill is 70% corn, 21% rye, and 9% malted barley, aged in Green River's signature clay tile rick houses before a six-month secondary finish in lightly charred, medium-toast new American oak barrels. The nose delivers toasted marshmallow and a hint of campfire smoke. The palate is noticeably sweet — rich caramel and that same toasted marshmallow character carry through without tipping into char. *(00:27:34)*
- New Holland Dragon's Milk Origins Small Batch Bourbon Whiskey (Bonus Pour): A gift from Roadie Mark Radliff and his wife Amy, this 95-proof, five-year-old bourbon from New Holland Brewing Company in Holland, Michigan is distilled on a pot still and finished in barrels previously used to age Dragon's Milk stout. The nose is immediately distinctive — chocolate, ripe peach, and a gummy fruit quality that carries straight through to the palate. The palate layers peach pie, a minty rye backbone, and a gentle sweetness unlike anything else on tonight's mat. A beer-world crossover that demonstrates what stout-barrel finishing can do for a well-made pot-still bourbon. *(00:38:25)*
Episode 502 is a showcase of American craft whiskey in all its variety — from a $40 debut bottle to a proof-forward gift-shop gem — and a reminder that some of the most memorable pours come from the most unexpected places. If you haven't yet, head over to TheBourbanRoad.com, create a free Roadie account, and join the conversation in the Roadie Bar. Until next time, we'll see you down the Bourbon Road. -
Welcome back to The Bourbon Road, Episode 501! Todd and Jim are joined in the Bourbon Road Bar — aka Tim's Basement — by special guest Dan Mattingly, a Roadie since 2020, Frankfurt Bourbon Society board member, and all-around bourbon enthusiast. The occasion calls for glasses raised to the 250th anniversary of America, a theme that drives most of tonight's tasting lineup, plus one very fun outlier to kick things off.
On the Tasting Mat:
- Dragon Con Bourbon by Old Fourth Distillery (40th Anniversary Edition): A 94-proof high-rye bourbon (75% corn, 21% rye, 4% malted barley) aged 4–6 years, released in collaboration with Atlanta's iconic Dragon Con convention. Limited to 3,700 bottles at $39.99. The nose opens with overripe fruit — banana, apple, and strawberry — while the palate delivers strawberry cream, a cool refreshing wash, and a gentle spice on the tail. A crushable, fruit-forward summer sipper that punches well above its price. *(00:02:51)*
- 15 Stars Kentucky County Six-Year Straight Bourbon (250th Anniversary): A blend of two Kentucky straight bourbons, each aged a minimum of six years, bottled at 90 proof and retailing for $38. Named in honor of the historic 1776 Kentucky County of Virginia's western frontier. The nose is light and delicate — sugar cookie icing, poached pear, and faint florality. The palate is similarly airy, with a brief but pleasant finish of light molasses and white fruit. A well-priced, accessible pour designed for a broad audience. *(00:11:50)*
- 15 Stars Kentucky County 12-Year American Whiskey (250th Anniversary): At 90 proof and $58, this expression blends Kentucky straight bourbon with an American whiskey distilled from a bourbon mashbill — aged seven years in second-use oak, then an additional five years in new charred oak. The nose carries more depth than its six-year sibling, with a hint of funk and gentle sweetness. The palate is soft and full-bodied, offering pear, white pepper spice, and a smooth finish with cotton candy sweetness and a light smokiness. A step up in complexity and a solid value for a 12-year expression. *(00:17:00)*
- Copper & Cask Wave That Flag Nine-Year Double Oak Bourbon (250th Anniversary): This 117-proof, nine-year straight bourbon undergoes a secondary finish in a custom American oak wave-stave char (#1 char) barrel. Only 3,000 bottles were produced, retailing for $74.99. On the nose: apple cinnamon spice and rich sweetness. The palate is full-mouth and layered — cinnamon roll spice, pecan swirl sweetness, black raspberry, dark chocolate, and a savory leather finish with hints of evergreen cedar. A dollar from every bottle supports the Arcadia Center veteran farmer training program. *(00:31:30)*
- Lost Lantern United States of Bourbon (Cask Strength, 250th Anniversary): The first-ever blend of straight bourbon whiskeys sourced from all 50 states — 50 distilleries, components ranging from 2 to 10 years old, bottled at cask strength 122.9 proof. Limited to 3,300 bottles at $99.99. The nose arrives with cosmic brownie chocolate, hard sugar candy, and warm baking spice. The palate opens with atomic fireball and red hots cinnamon heat, followed by dark cherry, black raspberry, leather, and a lingering oak-driven finish. A remarkable blending achievement and a fitting tribute to American bourbon craftsmanship coast to coast. *(00:38:09)*
It's a fitting episode to follow the milestone of Episode 500 — five expressions, five stories about anniversaries big and small, all sharing one message: great bourbon is being made everywhere, and there's always something worth raising a glass to. Dan Mattingly brought great energy and sharp palate notes to the table, and we hope you'll stop by the new Bourbon Road website at thebourbonroad.com to join the Roadie community, grab your free membership, and stay in the loop on upcoming events, giveaways, and live tastings. Until next time, we'll see you down the Bourbon Road. -
Episode 500 of The Bourbon Road is a milestone worth savoring, and hosts Jim Shannon and Todd welcome back the man who helped start it all — original co-host Randy Minnick. Randy joined Jim for the very first episodes of the show before life took him and his wife Julie to the mountains of Virginia, and tonight he returns to raise a glass and reminisce about the early days of one of bourbon podcasting's longest-running shows. The conversation winds through memories of drilling barrels with Elizabeth McCall at Woodford Reserve, tasting dusty Wild Turkeys with David Jennings in Lexington, and the slow but deliberate journey from a handful of listeners to over 3,200 Roadies strong. It is a night of gratitude, laughter, and genuinely outstanding whiskey.
On the Tasting Mat:
- Four Roses Limited Edition Small Batch 2022: A carefully composed annual release bottled at 109 proof, this Ellie opens with a beautifully floral nose of rose blossoms, ripe berries, and warm cinnamon. The palate is layered and polished in the way only a thoughtfully curated Four Roses release can be — sweet fruit up front giving way to gentle spice and a long, refined finish. A whiskey built for contemplation. *(00:02:03)*
- Wild Turkey Masters Keep Beacon 13 Year: Bottled at 118 proof and finished in toasted American oak, the Beacon delivers the unmistakable Wild Turkey DNA in an elevated form. The nose offers grilled orange, dark cherry, toffee, and a signature dusty, funky oak character that is pure Lawrenceburg. On the palate the oak deepens into tobacco territory while sweetness from dark fruit and brown sugar keeps everything in beautiful balance. It does not drink its proof. *(00:21:00)*
- Garrison Brothers Cowboy Bourbon 2021: Texas bourbon at its most unapologetic — 131.3 proof and a color so dark it borders on black water. The nose immediately conjures campfire s'mores, burnt marshmallow, overcooked caramel, and graham cracker. The palate follows through with deep molasses, charred oak, and a touch of dark chocolate. A whiskey made for a Maduro cigar under open sky. *(00:33:06)*
- Augusta Distillery Buckner's 13 Year Single Barrel: A high-proof single barrel release at 138.6 proof, almost certainly Barton distilled, selected by Todd and Jason Colori. Rich, concentrated dark cherry dominates the nose alongside clove, cinnamon, and fresh ginger. The palate is big and enveloping with dried dark fruit, tobacco, and a long, warm finish that earns its proof. *(00:58:10)*
Five hundred episodes in and the Bourbon Road shows no signs of slowing down. With a new theme song composed by Todd, a brand-new website at thebourbonroad.com complete with a searchable archive of over 1,300 tasting notes and the all-new Roadie Bar, the community around this show has never been stronger. Randy put it best — who would have thunk it? Here is to the next five hundred. -
Jim Shannon and Todd Ritter welcome Bill Straub back to the Bourbon Road Bar — aka Jim's basement — for a deep dive into some of the most talked-about new special releases from the industry's biggest players. Bill, the co-founder of Fourgate Whiskey Company and the longtime voice behind ModernThirst.com, brings his seasoned palate and encyclopedic knowledge of mash bills to the table, making for a lively and insightful tasting session across four very different expressions.
On the Tasting Mat:
- Elijah Craig 15 Year Single Barrel (Barrel #28) — Heaven Hill: Bottled at 108 proof from Heaven Hill's classic 78/12/10 corn-malted barley-rye mash bill, this 15-year expression opens with a distinctive circus peanut and soft marshmallow nose that the guys identify as quintessential Heaven Hill. The palate delivers silky texture with almond and amaretto notes, while a pop of black pepper anchors a long, satisfying finish. MSRP $150. *(00:02:39)*
- Old Forester Grand Dad 7 Year Single Barrel — Jim Beam (Old Grand-Dad): At 114 proof and carrying a high-rye mash bill of 63/27/10, this $50 release pours remarkably dark for its age. The nose offers orange marmalade and a subtle citrus-forward brightness, while the palate is smooth and somewhat reserved up front, building into a spicy, rye-bread-toast finish that lingers impressively. *(00:11:47)*
- Wild Turkey Austin Nichols Archive Gold Foil Edition (16 Year): The centerpiece of the evening, this 120-proof blend of 16-year barrels from Camp Nelson Rick Houses D, E, and F is the inaugural release in Wild Turkey's new Archive series, designed to evoke the legendary cheesy gold foil bottles of the 1980s and '90s. The nose is rich with leather, graham cracker pie crust, dried fruit, and a compelling dusty vintage quality. On the palate it explodes with sweet tobacco, oak, coffee cake, citrus, and a hint of dark chocolate, delivering wall-to-wall flavor from entry to an extraordinarily long finish. MSRP $400. *(00:26:49)*
- Stagg Batch 26A — Buffalo Trace: Coming in at a robust 129.3 proof with no age statement, this barrel-proof release from Buffalo Trace's Mash Bill #1 opens with concentrated brown sugar that lightens and brightens in the glass, revealing cherry cola, grape jelly, and just a touch of citrus. The palate runs straight down the center of the tongue with focused sweetness and a warm, brown-sugar-driven finish. MSRP $65. *(00:36:32)*
Four powerhouse releases, four very different price points, and one table of guys who clearly love what they do — this episode is a reminder that the bourbon industry, for all its current turbulence, is still producing some truly extraordinary whiskey. Don't miss Bill's candid thoughts on the state of the market, the cease-and-desist story behind the ModernThirst mash bill table, and why he thinks Heaven Hill's peak window tops out right around 15 years. -
Jim Shannon and Todd Ritter welcome listeners back to the Corner Rickhouse for a special episode centered around the upcoming documentary Spirits of Lawrenceburg: A Bourbon Legacy Forged Through Time. Joining them are Jerry Daniels of Stone Fences Tours — a Kentucky bourbon tourism expert and history enthusiast — and returning guest Bo Cumberland, the filmmaker behind the documentary. The conversation digs deep into the rich and often overlooked bourbon heritage of Lawrenceburg and Anderson County, Kentucky, tracing the families, distilleries, and waterways that made the region a powerhouse of American whiskey production from the early 1800s through Prohibition and beyond.
On the Tasting Mat:
- 1996 Dowling Deluxe 100 Proof: A dusty Heaven Hill-era bottling from 1996, this 100-proof bourbon pours an exceptionally dark amber. The nose opens with cherry pie and buttery pastry crust, with a light but present dusty funk characteristic of older Heaven Hill expressions. A beautiful example of pre-secondary-market-era bourbon in a plastic-capped bottle. *(00:02:29)*
- Whiskey Barons Collection – W.B. Saffold (Wild Turkey): A blend of 6, 8, and 12-year Wild Turkey mashbill bourbons bottled at 107 proof as part of the limited Whiskey Barons series honoring legendary Anderson County distiller W.B. Saffold, once the yeast man at Cedar Brook Distillery. The nose and palate deliver classic Wild Turkey character: rich cherry, orange slice candy, toffee, and a subtle nuttiness reminiscent of almond shell. The finish is long, warm, and deeply satisfying. *(00:24:46)*
- Frankfort Bourbon Society Single Barrel Four Roses OESQ, 9-Year 8-Month, Barrel Strength (123 Proof): Selected by the Frankfort Bourbon Society, this single barrel expression uses Four Roses' 20% rye mash bill with the Q yeast strain, aged 9 years and 8 months in barrel #85-5R (fifth tier rick). At a commanding 123 proof, it opens with brown sugar and sweet tea on the nose with delicate florality. The palate delivers a rich marriage of sweet oak, caramel, and deep barrel character, finishing with lingering sweet oak and brown spice. *(00:39:39)*
- Old Commonwealth Kentucky Nectar Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey (104 Proof): A limited 2,400-bottle release from Old Commonwealth Distillery — operating on the historic Old Hoffman Distillery site in Lawrenceburg — this 4-year-old bourbon is finished in honey casks at 104 proof. The nose is notably sweet with dark chocolate and amaretto-like qualities. The palate is rich and dessert-forward, with a warm honey-laced finish that lingers gently. *(00:36:44)*
With the premiere of Spirits of Lawrenceburg set for July 25th on the grounds of the historic T.B. Rippey Mansion, this episode is both a love letter to Anderson County's bourbon past and a preview of what promises to be Bo Cumberland's most expansive documentary yet. From the Hawkins and Bond families of the 1810s to Mary Dowling's indomitable legacy, from the devastation of the Whiskey Trust and Prohibition to the modern revival underway at Old Commonwealth and Larrikin, the full story of Lawrenceburg bourbon is finally getting its screen debut. Tickets are limited to 100 guests for the outdoor premiere event — details on the Spirits of Lawrenceburg Facebook page and the Stone Fences Tours social channels. -
Jim Shannon and Todd Ritter welcome back two familiar faces to the corner of Rick House in Frankfort: Diane Strong, the driving force behind the Bourbon on the Banks Festival, and Bo Cumberland, the festival's videographer and distillery film maker. Together they settle in for a relaxed preview of the 2026 Bourbon on the Banks Festival — now in its seventh year — touching on new events, expanded programming, sold-out tickets, and the evolution of the single barrel program that has become one of the festival's most celebrated features.
On the Tasting Mat:
- James E. Pepper 1776 Single Barrel Bourbon (Bourbon on the Banks 2025 Pick): A barrel selected the prior year by Jim, Todd, and Bo at James E. Pepper Distillery in Lexington. Clocking in at 109.4 proof, this single barrel pours with rich aromas of cherry cola, leather, and a subtle barrel funk. The palate delivers a lush butterscotch sweetness — evoking Werther's Original hard candies — balanced by a satisfying peppery bite on the mid-palate. The finish is long, warm, and refuses to fade. A confidently balanced cask-strength pick available at the festival for around $60–65. *(00:01:54)*
- Jeptha Creed Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey Single Barrel Reserve (Bourbon on the Banks 2025 Pick): A four-grain bourbon — built on the distillery's heirloom Bloody Butcher corn alongside wheat, malted barley, and rye — bottled at 119.52 proof from Warehouse B after seven years and one month of aging. The nose opens with intriguing complexity, revealing sweet cinnamon, a whisper of root beer, and a hint of fresh strawberry. The palate is full-powered and richly flavored, landing on buttered cinnamon pancakes with a wave of deep caramel. A distinctive expression that showcases just how compelling Jeptha Creed's long-aged releases have become. *(00:20:05)*
On the Tasting Mat:
Beyond the pours, the crew digs deep into everything Bourbon on the Banks 2026 has to offer: a sold-out Bourbon Bell River Tour with Ingram Distillery, the returning Whiskey Thief Kickoff Party (barrel burning included), a free family-friendly Friday night on the lawn with circus performers and a mermaid, the Culinary Bourbon Geek class with Peggy Noe Stevens now pushed to 2 p.m., a Friday VIP Reception and Auction sponsored by Larkin Bourbon, a Saturday morning brunch at Cypress and Oak, expanded single barrel picks from eleven distilleries including Angel's Envy, Pursuit Spirits, Jeptha Creed, Jackson Purchase, Boondocks, and others, and an after-party headlined by Creekwater with bluegrass openers Hancock and Schaus. Twilight tickets for the October 3rd main event are still available at bourbononthebanks.org.
Be sure to visit thebourbonroad.com -
Jim Shannon and Todd Ritter settle into the Bourbon Road bar for a warm-weather tasting session built around one unifying theme: light-proof, finished whiskeys perfect for summer sipping. The pair reconnect after Jim's trip to Branson and Todd's afternoon on the soccer sidelines, pouring five bottles that span maple syrup barrels, maple wood chunks, raw honey, port wine casks, and even an old fashioned cocktail mixer barrel — each one bringing its own creative approach to the art of the finish.
On the Tasting Mat:
- Iron Fish Distillery Bourbon Whiskey Finished in Maple Syrup Barrels (86 proof): A craft bourbon out of Thompsonville, Michigan, finished in barrels previously used to age maple syrup from a nearby family sugar bush farm. The nose opens with caramel green apple and buttery sweetness with virtually no ethanol heat. The palate is confectionary and sweet with a gentle warmth and a soft, hugging finish. Award-winning and approachable, this one shines as a warm-weather pour, especially over a large ice cube or alongside a glass of half-and-half iced tea. Retails around $50. *(00:02:11)*
- Company Distilling Weated Bourbon Finished with Maple Wood Chunks (90 proof): From the distillery co-founded by former Jack Daniel's master distiller Jeff Arnett, this weated bourbon blends whiskey from three states using both column and pot stills, aged four to six years. Rather than using a maple syrup barrel, fully matured straight bourbon was finished by placing maple wood chunks directly into the whiskey to coax natural toasted wood character. The nose carries green apple, a hint of cinnamon toast, and a subtle forest smokiness. The palate is extraordinarily silky and smooth with very little impact up front, building to a light zip on the finish. A dangerously sessionable pour. Retails around $50. *(00:07:04)*
- Green River Honey Finished Bourbon (92 proof): Distilled and aged in Owensboro, Kentucky, this four-year-old Green River straight bourbon was finished by adding a custom blend of locally sourced, seasonally selected raw unfiltered honey directly into the barrel, allowing the bourbon and honey to marry through natural barrel interaction. The result is a honey-colored, notably sweet whiskey with a confectionary nose and a smooth, very approachable palate that lends itself to mixing — a spiked Arnold Palmer or a light honey old fashioned being natural fits. Presented in distinctive hexagonal honeycomb-themed packaging. Retails at $24.99. *(00:13:31)*
- Oak Lore Distilling Company Port Cask Finished Four Grain Bourbon (92 proof): From Oak Lore Distilling in North Carolina, this four-grain bourbon sourced from Southern Distilling in Statesville, NC and Kentucky partners including Bardstown/Green River receives an additional 12 to 18 months of maturation in freshly dumped domestic port wine barrels that previously held port for up to 18 years. The nose is dark and figgy with cherry and deep fruit. The palate opens with upfront sweetness before settling into a rich, heavy dark fruit finish reminiscent of well-aged port. A campfire evening sipper, particularly appealing to port lovers making the move toward bourbon. Retails at $79.95. *(00:21:48)*
- Oak Lore Distilling Company Old Fashioned Finished Four Grain Bourbon (98 proof): The second of Oak Lore's Story Series entries, this four-grain bourbon finishes for an additional 18 months in barrels previously used to age Oak Lore's own old fashioned cocktail mixer. The result captures the essence of a classic old fashioned — bitters-forward aromatics with hints of orange, ginger, cardamom, and baking spice on the nose. The palate opens sweet and transitions into a bittery, cocktail-like finish that calls for nothing more than an ice cube and an orange garnish. Retails at $89.95. *(00:31:46)*
Jim and Todd round out the episode with news about the freshly launched Bourbon Road website, which now hosts over 1,320 tasting notes, all 500-plus episodes, a searchable blog, and the all-new Roadie Bar — a members community complete with chat, event calendars, giveaways, and a 24/7 AI bartender named Cooper. The pair also tease an upcoming event at the Frankfurt Bourbon Society's Corner Rick House during the Bourbon on the Banks weekend on October 3rd. Sign up at thebourbonroad.com to join the community and secure your spot. -
Jim Shannon and Todd Ritter are back at the Corner Rickhouse in Frankfort, Kentucky, just down the road from Buffalo Trace, settling in for a heritage distillery tasting that spans from the hills of Lynchburg, Tennessee, all the way through the heart of Kentucky bourbon country. The guys kick off with the latest annual drops from Jack Daniel's before crossing the state line to visit some of the storied names that built American whiskey into what it is today. Along the way, Jim and Todd also chat about the swirling acquisition rumors surrounding Brown-Forman, the upcoming 250th anniversary of the United States, and what it means for a legacy brand to stay independent.
On the Tasting Mat:
- **Jack Daniel's 10 Year Old Batch 5 (2026):** The newest annual release of Jack's decade-aged Tennessee whiskey, bottled at 97 proof with an 80/12/8 corn-rye-malt mash bill. The nose opens with inviting molasses, banana candy, brown sugar, cinnamon, and a hint of chocolate alongside a light leather note. On the palate it delivers warmth well above its sub-100 proof, with brown sugar, candy cherry, and a lingering spice-driven finish. *(00:01:48)*
- Jack Daniel's 12 Year Old Batch 4 (2026): The 12-year step-up in the Tennessee Heritage series, clocking in at 107 proof. The nose is more muted than its younger sibling but shifts toward darker fruit — raisins, black cherries, and molasses. The palate moves away from the lighter candy notes into a drier, more structured profile with bitter chocolate, dried cranberry, and a savory, slightly green mid-palate character. *(00:09:35)*
- Knob Creek Blender's Edition 01 — Sweet Bourbon Blend: The first installment in a new Knob Creek blending series, this 10-year-old Kentucky straight bourbon is bottled at 106 proof and retails for around $45. The nose leans into vanilla and light Rick house funk rather than the brand's signature nuttiness. The palate follows with a light, vanilla-forward profile featuring cake batter sweetness and confectionary notes — a deliberate stylistic departure aimed at accessibility. *(00:14:35)*
- Maker's Mark Wood Finishing Series — Steward's Release: The third entry in Maker's Mark's five-part Wood Finishing Series, finished on 10 toasted American oak staves and bottled at approximately 109.8 proof for around $75–$80. The nose is richly expressive — cherry pie filling, baking spices, cinnamon, and caramel. The palate delivers vanilla custard, honey, chocolate, cardamom, allspice, stone fruit, and a savory oak note on the back end. *(00:26:41)*
- Evan Williams America 250th Commemorative Edition Single Barrel (Barrel #233): A special single barrel release bottled at the patriotically meaningful 117.76 proof to honor the nation's 250th birthday. Barrel #233 was laid down December 15, 2018 and bottled March 2, 2026 — just over eight years of maturation. The nose features toasted caramel, peanut shell, oak, and dark berries. The palate is rich and layered with peach, berry, sweet oak, and a long finish, all for a remarkable $45 retail price. *(00:31:15)*
Jim and Todd wrap up with a ranking of all five pours, debating heritage versus innovation across some of American whiskey's most iconic names. Whether you're a longtime fan of the Tennessee tradition or a Kentucky bourbon devotee, this episode offers a wide-ranging tour through the legacies that built the brown water world we know today. Grab your favorite pour and enjoy the ride.
Be sure to check the Roadie Bar on our website at: https://thebourbonroad.com -
Jim Shannon and Todd Ritter welcome Stephen Corrigan — Barrel Master and Spirits Production Manager for Latitude Beverage LLC — for a four-bottle deep dive into two of the company's brands: Wheel Horse Whiskey and Copper and Cask Spirits. Stephen shares his winding path from organic farming and European viticulture to founding a DC craft distillery and ultimately landing at Latitude, where his focus is entirely on the art of blending and cask finishing. The conversation explores what it means to be a transparent non-distilling producer, the close relationship Latitude has built with Green River Distillery in Owensboro, Kentucky, and how aging barrels across wildly different climates — from the cold, damp Rhode Island coast to the sweltering Florida interior — coaxes remarkably distinct flavor profiles from the same base distillate.
On the Tasting Mat:
- Wheel Horse Barrel Master Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey (Batch 002): 113 proof, 5-year age statement, sourced from Green River Distillery (70% corn, 21% rye, 9% malted barley), blended from 14 barrels, non-chill filtered. Rich cherry cola on the nose, brown sugar and baking spice on the mid-palate, and a satisfying oak-driven finish with a full, coating mouthfeel. Retails for approximately $40. *(00:01:51)*
- Wheel Horse Barrel Master Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey (Batch 001): 120.2 proof, 5-year age statement, sourced from Green River Distillery (95% rye, 5% malted barley), blended from 11 barrels, non-chill filtered. Reportedly the first cask-strength Green River rye released commercially. Candied orange and dark fruit on the nose give way to a lively rye spice on the finish, with a notably viscous and oily texture. Retails for approximately $40. *(00:13:57)*
- Copper and Cask Small Batch 16 Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey: 116 proof, 11-year age statement, sourced from MGP (60% corn, 36% rye, 4% malted barley), blended from 24 barrels across two distinct lots laid down in September 2014, non-chill filtered. One lot delivers cocoa powder and austere oak depth; the other brings maraschino cherry, citrus, and a youthful vibrancy. Together they yield cream soda, fruitcake, and a ginger-tinged finish. Retails for approximately $84.99. *(00:25:54)*
- Copper and Cask Sauternes Cask Finish Bourbon (Single Barrel, Influencer Pick): 119.8 proof, 8-year age statement, sourced from MGP (60% corn, 36% rye, 4% malted barley), finished approximately 16 months in a Sauternes barrel, non-chill filtered. Selected in collaboration with whiskey influencers Whiskey Fly and Bourbon Hunt. Deep mahogany color; grape must, raisin, plum, and fig on the nose; a viscous, almost tawny port-like texture on the palate with a dry rye-spice counterpoint on the finish. Retails for approximately $64.99–$69.99. *(00:39:15)*
Beyond the bottles, Stephen opens up about the blending philosophy that guides every Latitude release — letting the whiskey dictate its own proof point, building toward a finish that lingers, and keeping price points honest so drinkers can pull a bottle off the shelf on any random Tuesday. He also teases the possibility of a future crossover product bridging the Wheel Horse and Copper and Cask lines, and confirms that Florida-aged barrels will be returning to the Copper and Cask single barrel program after a brief hiatus. Whether you're drawn to the accessible value of Wheel Horse or the premium craft of Copper and Cask, this episode makes a strong case that Rhode Island is quietly becoming one of the more interesting addresses in American whiskey.Be sure to checkout https://thebourbonroad.com
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Jim Shannon and Todd Ritter are back at the Bourbon Road bar for a dedicated rye whiskey night, working through five distinct expressions that showcase the breadth and character of American rye. From honey-finished blends to farm-strength single-grain pours, the lineup spans distilleries across Nevada, Ohio, Maryland, Kentucky, and Atlanta, giving listeners a wide-angle view of what rye whiskey looks like in 2025 and beyond.
On the Tasting Mat:**
- Short Barrel After Swarm 2: A blend of MGP and Green River 95/5 rye finished in Kelvin Cooperage barrels previously soaked with Oregon meadow foam honey for approximately 10–11 months, then aged an additional 11–12 months in those honey-conditioned staves. Bottled at 108.6 proof and retailing around $115, this six-plus-year expression opens with unmistakable honey on the nose alongside coconut and vanilla, leading to a syrupy, well-balanced palate of rye muffin, honey butter, and toasted pine nuts, with a finish that drifts toward Mexican chocolate and dried chili. *(00:01:19)*
- New Riff 10 Year Malted Rye: A special limited 375ml release from New Riff Distilling in Newport, Kentucky, drawn from a two- to three-barrel blend of 100% malted rye aged a minimum of ten years and bottled at 118.8 proof (approximately $46 for the 375ml). The nose offers earthy, chalky minerality with underlying fruit and aromatic spice. On the palate it shows a softer, grain-forward character with dry dark chocolate, mint, and a coniferous, living-forest quality on the finish. *(00:09:23)*
- Frey Ranch Farm Strength Uncut Rye: A 100% Canadian winter rye expression from Frey Ranch in Northern Nevada, distilled and aged on the same 2,500-acre farm where the grain is grown, aged a minimum of six years and bottled at cask strength, 124.52 proof. Available exclusively through the distillery's online shop at $79.99, this pour delivers an exceptional grain-forward nose with cream sweetness, fresh strawberry, and an almost field-fresh rye character. The palate is smooth and deceptively easy-drinking for the proof, with candy cinnamon and a long, clean finish that highlights the integrity of the single-farm grain. *(00:16:01)*
- Pursuit United Triple Mash Rye: Blended and bottled by Pursuit United in Louisville, Kentucky, this expression combines three distinct mash bills — Sagamore Spirits high-corn rye (52% rye / 43% corn / 5% malted barley), Sagamore Spirits 95/5 rye, and Bardstown, Kentucky 95/5 rye — with barrels ranging roughly four to eight years old, all bottled at barrel proof of 124.8 and retailing for $79.99. The nose is warm and holiday-spiced with dark fruit, nutmeg, cinnamon, and a hint of citrus. The palate is buttery and velvety with blueberry, lemon sorbet, and a trefoil-cookie sweetness, finishing long and satisfying. *(00:25:53)*
- Archer Eland Cashmere Rye: A collaboration between founder Wendy Pevich (formerly of Penelope Bourbon) and Middle West Spirits in Columbus, Ohio, this expression uses 100% Ohio-grown rye — a combination of standard and malted rye — aged approximately seven years and bottled at 126 proof, retailing for $84.99. The nose leads with dried apricot, peach, and a malt-forward fruitiness. On the palate it balances earthiness, ripe fruit, and a pronounced spicy mint-pepper character, with a medium-length finish carrying peach soda and fresh mint. *(00:32:38)*
Rye whiskey night at the Bourbon Road bar proved once again that the category rewards exploration. Whether you gravitate toward the softer, sweetened side of the spectrum or prefer high-proof grain-forward expressions straight from the farm, this lineup offered something for every rye enthusiast. All five bottles are available now or through their respective distillery channels, and every one of them makes a compelling case for keeping a rye or two on your shelf year-round.
Check out our new site at: https://thebourbonroad.com -
Jim Shannon and Todd Ritter welcome Devin Puckett, Brand Representative for Old Glory Distilling Co. out of Clarksville, Tennessee, to the Bourbon Road. Devin shares the remarkable origin story of Old Glory — from founder Matt Cunningham's days as a firefighter devising a distillery plan in his mid-twenties, through the COVID pivot to hand sanitizer that ultimately funded a towering 24-foot Vendome copper column still, to the 8,650-barrel warehouse that stands today. Devin also reveals his own path into the industry: a Ball State grad from northern Indiana who married into the Cunningham family, sold RVs, and answered a text message that changed everything.
**On the Tasting Mat:**
- **Old Glory Tennessee Bourbon Small Batch (90 Proof):** A grain-to-glass Tennessee bourbon distilled on a Vendome copper column still from a mash bill of 73% corn, 19% rye, and 8% malted barley, aged approximately three and a half years in new char #4 Kelvin barrels. Bright and clean on the palate with a dry finish, green apple, caramel drizzle, and light citrus — an accessible everyday pour at an approachable price point. *(00:09:50)*
- **Old Glory Tennessee Bourbon Bottled in Bond (100 Proof):** Drawn from 15–20 hand-selected pot still barrels and aged five years — an extra year beyond the minimum bonded requirement — this expression steps up the complexity considerably. The same 73/19/8 rye mash bill opens into darker fruit, rich brown sugar, cardamom, cinnamon, and a wave of baking spices, with a noticeably fuller, rounder texture. *(00:30:34)*
- **Old Glory Tennessee Bourbon Single Barrel #271 (121.7 Proof / 5 Years 9 Months):** Selected by master blender Caleb Martin, this cask-strength pot still expression offers an entirely different dimension — a lush dessert character of blackberry cobbler, buttery dark fruit, and a lingering finish that keeps unfolding. One of the early pot still barrels that helped define Old Glory's identity before the column still era. *(00:44:10)*
From a cornfield off I-24 to nearly 9,000 barrels of aging Tennessee whiskey, Old Glory is a distillery doing it the long way — grain to glass, family owned, community rooted. With a double oak release on the horizon, 100% rye and wheat casks quietly maturing in the warehouse, and a thriving on-site restaurant and event venue, there's plenty of road ahead for Clarksville's homegrown spirit. If you find yourself between Nashville and the Kentucky border, Old Glory Distilling Co. is more than worth the detour. -
The Bourbon Road crew is back with an exceptional lineup of five premium pours that showcase the diversity of bourbon craftsmanship. Jim Shannon and Todd Ritter kick off with the 2025 Remus Gatsby Reserve, a 15-year-old 102.8 proof straight bourbon from MGP's Ross & Squibb Distillery, released to celebrate the 100th anniversary of F. Scott Fitzgerald's "The Great Gatsby." This beauty delivers smoky oak, vanilla, and cinnamon notes that evolve beautifully throughout the tasting.
Next up is Old Forester's High Angel Share Rye from their 117 series—a 110 proof, 375ml gem featuring a 65% rye, 20% malted barley, and 15% corn mashbill. The hosts discover fruity strawberry jam notes balanced with spicy gumdrops and subtle chocolate, making it a standout rye experience.
The third pour brings something truly unique: the Bardstown Bourbon Company Cascadia Garriana Oak, a distillery reserve blend featuring 80% 10-year Kentucky bourbon, 12% 10-year Indiana bourbon, and 8% 9-year Kentucky bourbon finished for 10 months in rare Garriana oak barrels from Oregon's Willamette Valley. This expression delivers sandalwood, clove, and sophisticated woody notes that transport you to the Pacific Northwest.
Moving into the second half, the hosts explore Redemption's 10 Year Old Barrel Proof High Rye Bourbon at 114.4 proof—60% corn, 36% rye, and 4% malted barley—which impresses with candy-like sweetness, toffee, glazed pecans, and a surprising mint quality.
Finally, Todd shares his first-ever personal bottle of EH Taylor Barrel Proof Batch 14B at 127.4 proof, a 6-8 year old mash bill one expression that delivers traditional bourbon character with red berries, caramel, and sophisticated baking spices.
Each whiskey tells its own story, from heritage distilleries to innovative finishes, making this an episode where every pour earns serious consideration.
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Welcome back to another exciting episode of The Bourbon Road! This week, hosts Jim Shannon and Todd Ritter are broadcasting from the Corner Rickhouse at the Frankfort Bourbon Society. They are joined by a very special recurring guest and friend of the show, Drew Hannish. Drew is the creator of Whiskey Lore, a seasoned whiskey historian, and the author of the new travel guide Experiencing American Whiskey. Drew drops in while traveling to the James B. Beam Institute Industry Conference to share his elite palate and incredible whiskey knowledge with the guys.
The theme of the day is cross-country craft whiskey, thanks to the incredible team at Lost Lantern. Founders Adam Polonski and Nora Ganley-Roper have sent over their highly anticipated 2026 Spring Collection. Known for sourcing exceptional casks from under-the-radar craft distilleries across the United States, Lost Lantern has curated a lineup that pits high-proof monsters against nuanced, lower-proof gems.
It wouldn't be a true Bourbon Road episode without an epic tasting mat. The guys travel across the map, hitting four different states and a special seven-state blend, experiencing some of the highest proofs ever poured on the show!
On the Tasting Mat:
Montgomery Distillery Montana Straight Bourbon: Distilled in Missoula, Montana, this 4-year-old single barrel clocks in at 104.6 proof. With a wheated mash bill of 70% corn, 20% wheat, and 10% malted barley, it offers a bright, dry, and mineral-forward profile. The guys pull out intriguing notes of stone fruit, green banana, and a lingering underlying sweetness shaped by the cold Montana climate.
Broad Branch Distillery North Carolina Straight Rye: Heading to Winston-Salem, North Carolina, this 8-year-old release marks Lost Lantern's first "hazmat" rye, coming in at a scorching 141.6 proof. Made from 100% prairie rye and aged in a Char 4 barrel, it drinks surprisingly smooth for its octane. The hosts rave about its dessert-like nose, finding notes of dark chocolate, mint, and burnt orange that perfectly mimic eating Thin Mints and Samoas Girl Scout cookies.
Dread River Distilling Company Alabama Straight Bourbon: Distilled in Birmingham, Alabama, this 6-year-old wheated bourbon (60% white corn, 30% winter wheat, 10% malted barley) sits at another hazmat level of 141.8 proof. Named after a mythic underground river, this dark, rich pour delivers a "warm river of flavor." The crew finds deep, syrupy notes of dark cherry, molasses, cola, and a smoky baking spice that coats the palate.
Days to File Idaho Straight Bourbon: An incredibly rare 10-year-old bourbon sourced from a now-closed distillery in Shelley, Idaho. Boasting a massive 154.4 proof, it utilizes a unique mash bill of 76% corn, 11% triticale, and 13% malted barley. It is an unapologetic, intensely hot pour that challenges the palate with aggressive heat and concentrated oak.
Lost Lantern Far-Flung Bourbon 4: To showcase the magic of blending, Adam Polonski combined straight bourbons from seven distilleries across seven states (MD, SC, MS, AZ, TX, IL, WI). Bottled at 120.7 proof, it is a beautifully balanced masterpiece. The guys pick out complex layers of licorice, lemon zest, leather, chocolate, and cherry cola.
To wrap up the show, Todd attempts his own "Blendageddon" by mixing the first few high-proof pours together in his glass. Does his makeshift blend rival the masterful touch of the Lost Lantern team, or does it become a disjointed hot mess? Tune in to hear the final verdict, listen to the guys rank their favorites, and join the conversation as they explore the wild frontier of American craft whiskey!
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Welcome back to another episode of The Bourbon Road! This week, hosts Jim Shannon and Todd Ritter are broadcasting from the Corner Rickhouse at the Frankfort Bourbon Society. Joining them for his sixth appearance is a great friend of the show: Drew Hannush, the creator of Whiskey Lore and author of the upcoming travel guide Experiencing American Whiskey. Drew drops by during his trip to Kentucky for the James B. Beam Institute Industry Conference, bringing his elite palate to help tackle a fantastic lineup of craft spirits.
In this episode, Todd takes the crew on a four-state craft whiskey road trip, exploring hidden gems and highly unique mash bills from across the country. The craft whiskey scene is booming, and this flight proves that there is incredible innovation happening well beyond the borders of Kentucky.
The tasting mat features four remarkable expressions:
James E. Pepper Bottled in Bond Bourbon (Kentucky): A historic Lexington brand revitalized. This Bottled in Bond bourbon features a high-rye mash bill utilizing malted rye, delivering a classic caramel and vanilla nose backed by an oaky, smoky depth and a light, fruity twist. It is a fantastic representation of traditional Kentucky distilling.
1832 Distilling Missouri Straight Wheat Whiskey (Missouri): A true "soil to sip" operation from Concordia, Missouri, founded by a local farmer and a Marine veteran. This 100% wheat whiskey, aged 4.5 years in a #4 char Missouri white oak barrel, clocks in at 108.2 proof. It stuns the table with its incredibly dark color, rich stewed fruit and plum butter notes, and a complex palate of spicy gumdrops, sassafras, and sorghum.
Southern Star Limited Series Straight Bourbon Whiskey Finished in Zinfandel Casks (North Carolina): Clocking in at 108 proof, this limited-edition release spent over a year finishing in red Zinfandel wine casks. The guys pull out distinct wine barrel tannins, dark chocolate, overripe raspberries, warm pralines, and a tart cranberry finish.
Belle of Dayton - Detrick Fine Whiskies Straight Bourbon (Ohio): A 5-grain, pot-stilled bourbon (corn, oats, rye, wheat, malted barley) aged 8.5 years. At a whopping 123.2 proof, this single barrel brings fresh orange peel on the nose and a rich, honeyed cherry palate that gracefully dries out with a hint of cinnamon oatmeal and black tea.
Tune in as Jim, Todd, and Drew analyze the nuances of these exceptional pours, discuss the impact of low barrel entry proofs, and debate their final rankings. Will a 100% wheat whiskey from Missouri take the crown, or will a massive 5-grain pot-stilled bourbon from Ohio win the day? Pour yourself a glass and join us on The Bourbon Road to find out!
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Welcome back to another incredible episode of The Bourbon Road! This week, hosts Jim Shannon and Todd Ritter are back in the studio together to host a true double-header featuring two fantastic guests and some phenomenal whiskey. We are honored to welcome bourbon royalty to the show: Wes Henderson, the visionary behind Angel's Envy, and Brian Gelfo, a true bourbon aficionado, founder of the Bourbon Mafia, and the man behind Brothers of the Leaf.
In the first half of our show, we sit down with Wes Henderson to discuss his decision to come out of retirement. Wes shares the inspiring story of launching Saga Spirits Group alongside his six sons. We dive into the creation of his newest brand, True Story, and the philosophy behind its radically unique, six-sided, opaque black bottle design. Wes also gives us the inside scoop on his vision for the iconic Kentucky Castle, aiming to transform it into the ultimate bourbon-centric destination and world-class bourbon bar without ruining its historic charm with an industrial distillery on the lawn.
To kick off the tasting, Wes pours us the True Story Bourbon. This 90-proof expression is a 4-to-6-year-old blend of Green River and Barton bourbons, uniquely finished in white Moscatel barrels. The Moscatel finish softens the bourbon, creating a highly approachable, fresh, and bright profile. We pull notes of orchard fruits, honey, orange blossom, honeysuckle, apricot, and peach. It is a brilliant, layered whiskey that drinks like a warm spring day and would shine beautifully neat or in a cocktail.
For the second half of the episode, Brian Gelfo takes the reins to talk about Brothers of the Leaf. Brian shares his journey from hosting charity events with the Bourbon Mafia to taking the leap and launching his own brand with the Henderson family's support. He talks about his deep connection with the cigar community and an exciting upcoming collaboration with Drew Estate Cigars that involves aging cigar tobacco in empty Brothers of the Leaf barrels down in Nicaragua.
Brian then leads us through a tasting of two fantastic Brothers of the Leaf expressions. First is the Brothers of the Leaf Rye. This 112-proof whiskey is a 6-to-8-year-old MGP 95/5 rye finished in toasted, lightly charred (Level 1) white oak barrels. It is a flavor bomb that completely changes the minds of those who claim they don't like rye whiskey. We picked up a wonderful floral spice, fresh mint, new leather, and a sweet profile reminiscent of graham crackers and toasted marshmallows. It drinks far below its 112 proof and makes for an incredibly smooth sip.
Next, we sample the Brothers of the Leaf Blend. This unique expression combines bourbon and rye whiskeys that were finished separately in heavily charred (Level 3 or 4) white oak barrels before being blended to taste. The result is a darker, richer whiskey with a deeply layered profile. We uncovered notes of vanilla cream sitting on top of smoky oak, accompanied by an unmistakable cherry cola flavor with a twist of lemon. It's a beautifully balanced pour with a pleasant, spicy tingle that coats the palate.
Grab your favorite pour, perhaps light up a cigar, and join us as we explore the future of finishing, the importance of family, and the welcoming spirit of the bourbon community with Wes Henderson and Brian Gelfo!
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Welcome back to The Bourbon Road! This week, hosts Jim Shannon and Todd Ritter are diving deep into the history and flavor of one of America's most iconic whiskey brands. We are keeping a long-overdue promise to our listeners by doing a side-by-side comparison of the highly sought-after extended age Old Overholt rye whiskeys.
If you are a whiskey history buff, you know that Old Overholt holds the title for the longest continuously maintained whiskey brand in the United States, dating all the way back to 1810. Founded by Abraham Overholt in West Overton, Pennsylvania, it began as a classic Monongahela-style rye. We discuss its fascinating early history, back when frontiersmen transported the whiskey in casks on flatboats down the Monongahela and Ohio Rivers, stopping at the Falls of the Ohio before continuing to St. Louis and New Orleans. In those days, patrons would fill up ceramic jugs straight from the barrel! After being acquired by Jim Beam in 1987, the brand was moved to Kentucky, where corn was introduced to the mash bill to create a "Kentucky-ized" profile that many consider a "bourbon drinker's rye." Now, the brand is returning to its premium roots by offering higher-aged, cask-strength releases that harken back to the 1940s when you could get a 121-proof Old Overholt right from the cask.
In this episode, Jim and Todd line up the 10-Year, 11-Year, and 12-Year Old Overholt Cask Strength Rye whiskeys to see how each year of extra aging and varying proofs impact the flavor profile. As always, they analyze the nose, palate, and finish of each expression before combining them for a final "Blendageddon" experiment.
On the Tasting Mat:
Old Overholt 10-Year Cask Strength Rye: Released in 2023, this 121-proof powerhouse was sourced entirely from Warehouse V—an "escalator" warehouse in Clermont. At an MSRP of $100, the guys are instantly struck by its dark cherry and oaky warehouse nose. On the palate, it delivers a massive impact with a cherry-honey combo, a deep richness that isn't overly sweet, and a light breath of rye spice that lacks any polarizing dill or mint notes. It boasts a remarkably long finish that leaves a lasting impression and a solid Kentucky hug.
Old Overholt 11-Year Cask Strength Rye: Released in late 2024, this batch drops the proof down to 107.4 and shifts the aging to warehouses M, J, F, and 5. Also retailing around $100, this pour offers a much lighter, cleaner nose with hints of peanut brittle and subtle oak. The palate takes a sharp turn into "candy rye" territory, delivering rich notes of maple syrup, brown sugar, and sweet crystalized sugar sticks. While the finish isn't quite as long as the 10-year, it provides a beautifully balanced, sweet, and approachable experience that hides its proof effortlessly.
Old Overholt 12-Year Cask Strength Rye: The senior member of the lineup steps the proof back up to 117. Also aged in warehouses M, J, F, and 5, this expression brings a completely different profile and a retail price of around $110. Boasting a rich mahogany color with thick legs on the glass, the nose is bursting with berry jam—think raspberries and strawberries—with a touch of dried cranberry tartness. The palate is a luxurious "berries and cream" experience, offering a velvety, salivating mouthfeel. It balances the sweetness with a leathery, slightly white-pepper spicy finish that lingers just as long as the 10-year.
The "Blendageddon" Old Overholt 10/11/12-Year Custom Blend: To close out the tasting, Todd mixes equal parts of all three expressions, resulting in a custom blend sitting right around 114.4 proof. The guys discover that the bold 10-year and 12-year expressions dominate the softer 11-year, creating a complex pour that leads with the 12-year's berry notes and finishes with the 10-year's spicy, leathery bite.
Tune in to hear Jim and Todd debate the merits of each vintage, discuss the fascinating history of the brand, and ultimately reveal their personal rankings of these three exceptional ryes. Which age statement will reign supreme? Grab a glass, pour your favorite rye, and join us on The Bourbon Road to find out!
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Welcome back to another episode of The Bourbon Road! After a brief hiatus, the man, the myth, the legend—Jim Shannon—is officially back in the host chair. Jim recently returned from a trip to Florida, where he experienced the wild swings of winter weather, going from 80 degrees down to 35. Of course, Kentucky wasn't about to be outdone, greeting him with 70-degree days followed immediately by threats of snow and heavy rains. As Jim and Todd Ritter settle back into the Bourbon Road bar, they take a moment to reflect on the crazy weather and look back at the anniversary of the historic Frankfort floods, thankful that the waterfront survived mostly intact this year.
But enough about the weather—it is time to drink some incredible whiskey. For this highly anticipated review episode, the guys are diving into something truly special: the brand-new King of Kentucky Small Batch releases from Brown-Forman. If you follow the brand, you know that King of Kentucky is historically known for its ultra-rare, high-proof single barrel releases. However, the team at Brown-Forman found themselves with around 100 barrels that had incredibly low yields—some containing only 20 to 30 bottles worth of liquid due to heavy evaporation. Rather than release them individually, they decided to batch them together. This special release was created in honor of the upcoming 250th anniversary of the United States.
These small batches feature bourbon aged between 12 and 18 years, and surprisingly, they utilize a slightly different mash bill than the standard releases: 75% corn, 15% rye, and 10% malted barley. Bottled in 700mL formats with an MSRP of $299, these are still incredibly hard to find. Fortunately, Todd and Jim were lucky enough to get their hands on samples of all three batches thanks to their good friend John Peetz (aka Top Dog), whom they recently joined for an excellent barrel pick at Bluegrass Distilling.
On the Tasting Mat:
King of Kentucky Small Batch 1: Coming in at 105 proof, this first batch sets the stage with a classic, robust Brown-Forman nose full of cherry pie crust, toasted coconut, and vanilla. However, the palate takes a sharp turn into an incredibly dry and tannic profile. Lacking any real sweetness, it delivers bitter dark cacao, leather, and heavy oak tannins that linger on the back of the palate for a remarkably long finish. It is a complex, dry pour that demands your attention and pairs perfectly with a dark Maduro cigar.
King of Kentucky Small Batch 2: Stepping up to 107.5 proof, Batch 2 shifts away from the dry tannins of the first pour and moves into darker, spicier territory. The nose is rich with dark fruits like dates, figs, and dried palm fruits. On the palate, it brings a leathery tobacco bite accompanied by a sizzling cinnamon and black pepper spice that dances across the tongue. It retains a dry character but balances the heavy oak with a fantastic, mouth-watering sizzle.
King of Kentucky Small Batch 3: The heaviest hitter of the trio clocks in at 110 proof. This batch brings a completely different energy, opening with a bright, fresh nose of rich chocolate, citrusy lemon, and a distinct Coca-Cola note. The palate introduces a "faux sweetness"—a luscious cherry cola syrup flavor that perfectly masks the high proof while delivering a spicy, full-mouth tingle that coats the entire tongue beautifully.
After sipping through the three official batches, Todd flexes his "Blendageddon" skills for the final pour of the night. By combining equal parts of Batch 1, Batch 2, and Batch 3, Todd creates a custom "Batch 4" that sits right around 107.5 proof. The guys evaluate this impromptu blend to see if combining the dry tannins, the dark fruit spice, and the sweet cherry cola notes results in a masterpiece that rivals the individual batches.
Tune in to hear Jim and Todd's full tasting notes, their discussion on the secondary market values for these rare bottles, and their personal rankings of the King of Kentucky Small Batches. Which batch will take the crown? Grab your favorite glass, pour something special, and join us down the Bourbon Road. Cheers!
Be sure to check out our private Facebook group, "The Bourbon Roadies" for a great group of bourbon loving people. You will be welcomed with open arms! -
Welcome back to another episode of the Bourbon Road podcast! This week, Todd Ritter is holding down the fort solo while Jim Shannon escapes to warmer weather. But Todd isn't drinking alone at the Bourbon Road bar; he's joined by two fantastic returning guests to celebrate the Bottled in Bond Act. Amsey Wenning, the "Alec Baldwin of the show" from the Frankfort Bourbon Society and Bourbon on the Banks, is back, along with filmmaker Bo Cumberland, the director behind the Frankfort: The Heart of Bourbon documentary.
The guys dive into a deep discussion about Bo's recent documentary work. With his Frankfort film approaching 22,000 views on YouTube, Bo shares the overwhelmingly positive response it has received. He also talks about his exciting new series, Forging a Bourbon Legacy, which explores the deep, intertwining roots of bourbon history in Anderson County. Through short-form episodes, Bo is uncovering the fascinating stories of families and figures like the Ripy family, the Bonds, Judge McBrayer, and the history behind Wild Turkey, proving that Kentucky's bourbon history is anything but simple. Amsey also shares some incredible news about the Bourbon on the Banks festival, revealing that the charity-driven event recently distributed over $100,000 to local organizations, with volunteers getting a say in where the funds go.
Of course, a Bottled in Bond celebration requires some stellar 100-proof whiskeys, and the tasting mat is loaded with unique and highly anticipated pours:
First up is a true dusty: 1992 Old Crow Bottled-in-Bond. This 4-year-old Japanese export delivers a classic bourbon nose with rich caramel and dark colors that defy its age. The guys marvel at its luscious mouthfeel and cherry caramel notes, finding it vastly superior to modern iterations of the brand and proving that the "good Old Crow" was truly something special.
Next, Amsey brings a unique bottle to the table: Angel's Envy Cask Strength Bottled in Bond. A rare combination of terms, this 6-year-old bourbon achieves its 100 proof through a lower barrel entry proof and meticulous blending rather than adding water. The crew discovers an intriguing almond and amaretto nose, followed by a soft, fruity palate with hints of green apple, light caramel, and a sweet confectioner's sugar finish that drinks surprisingly gentle.
Finally, they head south to sample the Old Dominick Bottled in Bond Tennessee Whiskey. Produced in Memphis, this expression features a mash bill of 75% corn, 13% rye, and 12% malted barley. It undergoes the Lincoln County process and is aged in West Tennessee white oak with a heavy #4 alligator char. The result is a bold, earthy pour with notes of dark cherry, sweet pipe tobacco, and a pleasant graininess that finishes with a spicy, white pepper kick.
Tune in as the guys sip through these incredible bonded whiskeys, debate the merits of short-form versus long-form storytelling, and share plenty of laughs along the way. Cheers!
Be sure to check out our private Facebook group, "The Bourbon Roadies" for a great group of bourbon loving people. You will be welcomed with open arms! - Laat meer zien
