What bourbon are you drinking these days?

[SauceSupreme]

My favorite of the moment is Wathens. Unfortunately, I killed the bottle at my local watering hole, but that just meant that they poured me something else (I was introduced to Blanton's this evening and was duly impressed.)

So which bourbon are you reaching for?

http://www.wathens.com/
http://www.blantonsbourbon.com/

[feenix]

Just poured my second Angel's Envy "el neato" and will peacefully sip my way though the Kings/Sharks game on NBSCH. My first got me through my Ranger comeback in overtime. A perfect evening!

[wineguy7]

I've been slumming it recently with Old Crow, Ancient Age and Early Times (not bourbon). Mostly neat or in an old-fashioned. The Old Crow is light and refreshing. The Ancient Age seems to have a little more complexity, and stands up to dilution in a cocktail. The Early Times is richer and sweeter, and plays well with vermouth and bitters.

[scubadoo97]

Last week had a pour of a Knob Creek Single Barrel Lock and Key selection.

Very tasty with a lot of nutty flavors. I had just cracked it open. Better than anticipated

[Blind Mind]

Lock & Key selection? Do tell...

[scubadoo97]

Should be Loch and K(e)y. A whiskey group in the NE.

[sku]

I think they are exclusive bottlings for Julio's Liquors in Massachusetts.

[Blind Mind]

Ahhh, ok. I'll check it out soon when I head back home to Beantown.

Poured an oldie but goodie value bourbon last night - Ancient Ancient Age. Easy sippin all around. Poured a PVW15yr late last night after Dad called to tell me he was cancer free. It tasted better than ever.

500th post on this thread!!

[JMF]

AAA is good stuff. I was down in Kentucky for a week last September for a bourbon camp. (Imagine a free summer camp of top bartenders and spirits industry people, free flowing bourbon all day and night, and distillery visits and seminars by bourbon experts.) I stopped by a liquor store in Bardstown and picked up three bottles of the AAA. Great juice, and for only $13 a bottle.

[ncyankee101]

I would assume since you were there and could get it, you bought the AAA 10 yr as opposed to the 10 star? I would love to get my hands on some of that but I have heard it is only available in Kentucky.

Oddly enough I just checked NC prices and the 375 is cheaper than the 750, $7 vs $16.

[JMF]

I looked through my notes and one bottle was the 10 star/6 yr for $13, and two bottles of the 10 yr for $18. But I can't seem to find my tasting notes. I've been a bit careless about my notes the past year or so.

[scubadoo97]

Glad to hear your Dads okay

Cheers

[Blind Mind]

Thanks, man. Much appreciated. Life is good.

JMF - when was that camp and how'd you hear about it? I was there in September for Bourbon Under the Stars event.

[JMF]

It was the same week as Bourbon Under the Stars. The camp is an invitational event to apply, then they pick 150 people out of the applicants. I heard about it as a member of the US Bartenders Guild. You have to be a bartender or spirits/cocktail professional to attend, and it's basically a one time thing and most can't do it again, so that each year new folks get to go. It was one of the more fun and insane weeks of my adult life. It wasn't as wild as Woodstock '94, but more boozy fun.

[ncyankee101]

Finally got my hands on a bottle of Elmer T Lee - gotta say I like it a lot, sweet, spicy and woody all at the same time. Lot of things going on and all are good. I've only had it a couple times now and it is going to take some time to get to know this one, but I would already place it among my top five along with Elijah Craig 12 yr, Old Grand dad 114, Old weller Antique, and Wild turkey rare breed (knocking off Corner Creek).

I'm curious to see what others think of this one?

[scubadoo97]

ETL is a nice Buffalo Trace product. I find it similar to AAA and Rockhill Farms

[rcb4d]

ETL makes a good base for a Manhattan. Not as good as rye, but better than most other bourbons I've tried.

I've drinking that, OWA 107 in my Old Fashioneds, and EWSB with one rock (comparing the 2002 and 2003 barrelings).

[Blind Mind]

OWA is pretty awesome in an old fashioned. It's my current favorite and official cocktail of The Blind Tastes Speakeasy (aka The BTS). ETL has a medium rye content (around 15% in the mash). I like it a lot for being a tasty single barrel bourbon at a very fair price of around $30-$35 here in Miami.

[PeterB]

Evan Williams Single Barrel and Elijah Craig 12. Excellent bang for the buck.

[MacshashRIP]

Heaven Hill $16.99 for 1.75.....say what you will about bottom shelf bourbon....it is delicious.

Love the new Crown Royal Maple as well.

[Tom34]

(Heaven Hill) Will have to see if its available in NJ.

[JMF]

Heaven Hill is a great bang for the buck. It's actually pretty good. I use it quite a bit. Many lower priced bourbons are pretty good, I have been trying a lot lately and have been surprised. I only started trying them because a bourbon expert friend said that there were a lot of hidden gems in the bourbon world.

[ConsApi]

I've been drinking Evan Williams 1783. It's not quite as complex as, say, Knob Creek, but at ~$20 for a 1.75 liter bottle, who's complaining? It's funny, but ever since I've gotten into mixing cocktails, I'm not as snobby about the booze I use, because the $30 -$40 750 ml bottles seem to empty a lot faster.

[Tom34]

There is a time and place for everything & I must say quite a few empty Evan Williams 1783 1.75 liter bottles have sat in my recycling bucket. Lot of bang for the buck there, especially when mixing.

[Latinpig]

Where to begin:

For sipping: I love the Jim Beam products

Bookers is my favorite everyday bourbon.

Close second it the Knob Creek reserve

If I don't have access to the above, I am happy with Old Grandad Bottled In Bond 100 proof to sip.

For mixing:

Rye - Wild Turkey 101 Rye (off the shelves right now. I am down to my last bottle) or

Rittenhouse Rye 100 - every bartenders best friend.

Bourbon - Old Grandad Bottled In Bond 100 or Jim Beam Black label or Buffalo Trace

High end premium hard to find -

I like the three uncut Antique bottlings from Buffalo Trace - The Stagg, Handy and Weillers are all outstanding. I used to buy these everyear with no problem. Now because of Anthony Bourdain, I have to fight hipsters for one bottle and pay through the nose for it. Talk about ruining a good thing.

I have had all the Pappy's but for my money, the Antique Collection is the best set of Bourbons out their. Even the Eagle Rare and Saezerac are outstanding. I used to buy them for $65. At $100+, I am sticking to the uncut versions.

[ncyankee101]

I've been lucky enough to come across bottles of Handy for $60 in PA and Myrtle Beach, and $71 on rare occasions in state-controlled NC and WV. Right next to the Handy in SC was Eagle Rare 17 yr for $130, according to the store owner this is the last year they are making it.

[TombstoneShadow]

I haven't been taste-testing bourbons for at least 7 years now...

Still going on results of my last flights:

SUBLIME, a bit expensive: Eagle Rare... if you think you have a great bourbon here's how you find out for sure: beat Eagle Rare in a blind tasting... and when you do please let me know!!!!

SUBLIME minus a half point: Buffalo Trace. Hello... this is delicious everyday+ whiskey...

EVERYDAY: W.L. Weller basic white label.... at $14 a bottle you have no excuse for drinking bad American whiskey....

HONORABLE MENTION: I'll never turn Makers Mark Down... rating is "everyday plus"...

[Blind Mind]

$27 for a 750ml of Eagle Rare is "expensive"?

[ncyankee101]

I paid $23 for it, and wasn't particularly impressed. For the same or less money I much prefer Old Weller antique, Old Grand dad 114 and Elijah Craig 12 yr.

[zin1953]

Can't speak to the Old grand Dad 114, but as for the other two -- yes, I prefer them over the Eagle Rare as well. (But to each his/her own.)

[ncyankee101]

To be honest, the Eagle Rare did seem to get better after sitting for a couple months, when I tasted it fresh and again a couple weeks later I just found it sweet up front, bland in the mid palate with some wood in the finish, like a slightly better Maker's, but definitely not interesting compared to the others I mentioned. When I retasted it much later it had taken on some caramel / toffee flavors in the attack that made it a little more interesting but still not something I would repurchase.

Of course my preference is towards spicier, flavorful Bourbons, but even I can appreciate a good mild one that still has some interesting aspects, such as Buffalo Trace or Maker's 46.

[TombstoneShadow]

Curious... are you tasting these blind?

All of these boutique whiskies are supposed to be so great... I just line 'em up in unlabelled glasses and taste them neat and then with a favorite mix... Then take the winners of one tasting and pit them against each other in the 2nd round... and so forth until consistent winners emerge for my palate over time.

A great source of tasting notes, btw: BourbonEnthusiast dot com...

[ncyankee101]

Hmm I meant to reply to this several times but kept getting sidetracked.

No I have not done any blind comparisons with Eagle Rare, I don't find them all that useful for me because after going back and forth for the first several sips my palate gets too numb to discern subtle differences between spirits.

I prefer to compare two spirits by tasting them in depth one at a time and taking notes, with some time / water / crackers etc between them to allow my palate time to recover. I guess I could do this method blind but have never tried it.

[TombstoneShadow]

Yank: I hear you about the risk of palate fatigue... I started a separate Chowhound thread on the subject of blind tasting methods here: http://chowhound.chow.com/topics/884444

[ncyankee101]

Tombstone - one thing I have noticed recently concerning palate fatigue, it seems to vary a lot depending on what I am drinking.

With a spirit like Tequila where the flavors are subtle, it quickly becomes hard for me to pick up differences in a side by side comparison.

With dark rums, I can drink all night because of the bolder flavors and have no problems.

With Bourbon, it seems to be harder to pick up differences because the differences between many Bourbons are not that great to begin with, unless you're comparing a very mild one like Maker's with a bold one like Rare Breed or OWA.

[zin1953]

This is the same reason why you (generally) start out with whites and lighter reds in the morning, moving on to fuller reds as a wine judging continues . . .

[scubadoo97]

With bourbon it's best to start with the lower proofs and work up to the barrel proofs

[Blind Mind]

My comment had nothing to do with preference, merely that $27 for a single barrel bourbon aged 10 years to me is not expensive. OWA is the best bourbon whiskey under $30 in my book.

[scubadoo97]

Totally agree

[TombstoneShadow]

Yes it is expensive when I can have awesome-tasting bourbon for less... but it's a great treat I always enjoy serving.

[The Big Crunch]

I'll stand up for Eagle Rare, which seems to be somewhat rare on these boards. Honestly, it's a damn fine whiskey. Is it my favorite at around $30 and under? No, but it is among my favorites. Here are the notes I took on it last time I had a bottle.:

Appearance – Dark gold, light honey, with a solid ring appearing on swirl on that quickly breaks down into droplets and numerous thin legs which quickly dissolve.

Nose – Fairly large nose with deep oak and lovely vanilla undertones. Lots of roasted corn, but less overt caramel notes. Herbal hints are mint, eucalyptus, and perhaps a bit of sage, in addition to lemon. Warming and ten minutes or so in the glass also seems to release a bit of currant and dried citrus. There do seem to be some interesting and rather unusual (though certainly not unpleasant) spice notes in there. Chris Carlsson at spiritsreview.com wrote that he detected mace, and maybe it’s just his power of suggestion, but that seems accurate. Addition of water and time in the glass produces a much sweeter aroma. Time in the glass also results in greater notes of char.

Taste – Immediate taste is strong, fairly hot with deep notes of dry oak and noticeable alcohol followed by light sweetness. This is a wonderfully big and dynamic whiskey. Milder sweet vanilla notes develop on the swallow, along with very subtle hints of sweet lemon, mint, light malt and dried apricot. There are sweet elements, but I would say that, at first, especially for a bourbon, this is less sweet and more dry. Addition of just a touch of water really softens this whiskey, smoothing out some of the bite and dulling the alcohol, arguably too much. A little water really brings out the sweetness, but just a bit too much can go a long way and easily dilute some of the depth.

Mouthfeel – Fairly viscous.

Finish – Very clean, arguably too short. Subtle orange notes develop beneath a mildly dry oakiness.
Overall - The longer you sip, the more the sweet elements come out and the spicier elements settle down. This is a damn tasty spirit, solidly reflecting the best elements and defining characteristics of bourbon. Jason Pyle, of sourmashmanifesto, suggests that it’s a bit rough around the edges, but I actually see it as a fairly easy sipper whose main fault lies in a lack of complexity.

For almost half the price, I'd take Elijah Craig 12 or for something about ten bucks less than Eagle Rare, I'd take OWA, but sometimes it's nice to revisit Eagle Rare.

As far as Makers, well, I wouldn't turn it down if given for free, but I think it's pretty one-dimensional stuff, especially for the price. Their 46 however is much better than the standard bottling IMO, though when I finish the bottle I currently have, I doubt I'll buy again.

[wonderwoman]

in agreement re eagle rare's bite. as i mentioned up thread, when i open a bottle, i drop in a whole vanilla bean, which also smoothes it out. and the should the bean spend some time in the bottle (i know, i know:), the result is a deep and mellow sip.

[ncyankee101]

Elijah Craig half the price of Eagle Rare? Prices where you are are very different from most places, I am surprised when people on here say Craig is twice the price of Jim Beam Black (MA I think). NC regular prices here are $30 ER / $24 Craig / $22.50 OWA, though the latter two are often on sale under $20 and I almost always buy a bottle when they do. Maker's 46 is very pricey here at $40 but a friend brought me back a bottle from Atlanta for $26 at which price it is a pretty good deal, though given the competition I am also not sure I would rebuy even at that price.

I have to admit I revisited my Eagle rare (which is now down to about 1/4 bottle) and it does seem to be getting better the longer it is open. Perhaps it is just my palate / preferences but oxidation seems to be bringing out more appealing aspects of flavor. it's still not spicy enough to rank among my favorites but I am definitely finding it more interesting than I did when I first got it last spring.

[Blind Mind]

Pricing is similar to what we have here in Miami - ER $28, EC12 $25, OWA $25 and like you the latter 2 are often on sale for a few bucks cheaper but never under $20. Makers 46 goes for $30.

I recently picked up a bottle of Old Bardstown Estate and I gotta say it's a great value for $23. 10yr aged and 101 proof, notes of vanilla, caramel, rye, pepper give it a nice balance of sweet and spicy.

[scubadoo97]

Do you know where OBE is coming from? Heaven Hill I suspect

[sku]

Old Bardstown is a KBD product, which, as you know, meaans that it could be anything, but is likely a blend of many different distilleries, which likely changes from batch to batch.

[scubadoo97]

Ah KBD, you never know what you're going to get.

Thanks Sku

[The Big Crunch]

Funny to read some of the older posts in this thread and the casual way they suggest you just go and buy a bottle or two of some Pappy varieties. Man...2008...those were different times.

Just as an update, in DC, Pappy is virtually impossible to buy. You basically get on a list at a liquor store a year or more in advance, or you're someone with the clout who can get a bottle held for you under the counter. Low end starts around $300 a bottle and the high end tails off around $700, at least judging by prices currently listed on a few DC liquor store sites. Worth noting, the prices are listed, followed by a disclaimer basically saying, this product will never be available to you.

Amazing how the Pappy brand has gone stratospheric in terms of demand and price. Seems like it broke through to that special realm where it's no longer a highly desired after dram for a minority of bourbon geeks, but has instead become a well known status symbol that is now in-demand for folks who find it very important to always have the newest in-demand status symbol, as well as the investors who now buy it purely to put away, safe and unopened, as a financial investment. Either that or the last five years has seen a meteoric explosion of bourbon geeks with exceptionally sophisticated palates that require exceptionally sophisticated hooch at any cost.

[ncyankee101]

I have to admit to doing that earlier this year with a bottle of Thomas Handy, I saw the earlier years selling on eBay for around $140 and when I saw a bottle in Myrtle Beach for $60 I couldn't resist getting another one. Then they stopped "allowing" liquor sales on eBay. Ah well, I guess I'll just have to drink it ;-)

I still have yet to see another bottle of the Sazerac 18 yr, other than the one I lucked into in Boondocks WV.

[sku]

Big Crunch, you're absolutely right. With the help of promotion by some notable celebrity chefs (David Chang in particular), some TV appearances, and then many, many magazine and web articles touting it as both great and hard to get, Pappy has gone from great bourbon to luxury status symbol. It seems that many people who know little about bourbon see it mentioned and want a bottle.

The funny thing is that back in 2008, much of the Pappy brand was still made from rare stocks from the old Stitzel-Weller distillery. This is part of what made it attractive to bourbon geeks. Now, all but the oldest versions are made at Buffalo Trace (and within a year or two, there will be no Stitzel-Weller left even for the older expressions), which makes them pretty much the same as the Weller brand which is also made at Buffalo Trace using the same recipe, and which is easier to find and much cheaper.

[Blind Mind]

Forget 2008, even in 2010 it was relatively easy to get a bottle of Pappy whatever year. Big mouths like Bourdain, Chang, and Brock brought Pappy to pop culture and now he's dead for connoisseurs.

Yup, my Pappy is dead. http://blindtastes.blogspot.com/2012/...

[ncyankee101]

I grabbed a bottle of Kirkland's signature Bourbon a couple months back and I have to say I quite like it, maybe not quite as good as my favorite ~$20 Bourbons (OGD 114, EC 12 and OWA 107) but not all that far behind, especially given the price of $20 for a liter. I especially like it with an ice cube, I usually drink Bourbon neat but a little ice really brings out some interesting flavors in this one.

[scubadoo97]

I haven't had the opportunity to try it but I heard it was similar to Knob Creek which has climbed up to over $50/liter

[ncyankee101]

I've heard two different theories of what whiskey has been rebranded for Kirkland - Knob Creek or Baker's. I have yet to try Baker's but I do have a bottle of Knob Creek and at some point will try them side by side.

[sku]

There's not much difference between Knob and Baker's. Baker's is slightly younger and slightly higher proof than Knob, but they use the same mashbill.

[The Big Crunch]

Been a long time since I had any Knob Creek, but I did pour myself a dram of Bakers a few nights back. The bottle has been opened for nearly a year and I think it's actually gotten better. It seemed much smoother and softer than I remembered it being.

[nickls]

After all the talk of Old Weller Antique 107, I decided to grab myself a bottle recently. I had tried it before, but after a few more drinks this stuff is really doing it for me. One of the few whiskeys in my local stores (MA) that is a bargain, as I can reliably find it for $20. Made a killer Old Fashioned, and sipping on one cube was also great.

One of my local stores also just got a bunch of new bottles of rye: Willett, James E. Pepper 1776, Riverboat. From what I read, these are made with LDI rye, but I'm interested to try them. I liked Bulleit Rye and Redemption Rye, which I gather are also made from LDI distillate.

[scubadoo97]

If you like Bulleit then you will most likely enjoy these as well. The Willett is a little better IMO for not much more $. Never had the James E Pepper before.

[Blind Mind]

Im a big fan of Bulliet, Redemption, and Willett Rye. Riverboat is put out by the same folks that do Redemption from what I recall. I have a bottle and it's nothing special. OWA is my favorite all around bourbon. Can't get enough of it.

[ncyankee101]

The thing I love about OWA is that it is excellent neat, where it is a spicy fiery Bourbon with a kick - but add some ice (just one cube) and it becomes a sweet, mellow one with loads of toffee caramel and baking spices. Few inexpensive Bourbons hold up to ice or water, OWA becomes a different beast but still excellent.

[tomjb27]

Count me in as a huge fan of OWA. I finally got around to picking up a bottle of Old Weller Special Reserve, and while good (especially for the money), it really pales in comparison to OWA. If nothing else, tasting the Reserve highlighted just how special OWA is for a bourbon in that price range.

[ncyankee101]

I agree about the special reserve - if the price is comparable, as it is here in NC ($23 vs $19) OWA is a no brainer, especially when on sale for $20. However, a friend did pick me up a couple bottles of the special reserve in Atlanta for $9 at which price it is an amazing bargain, and I am going to have him grab me a couple more next trip.

[scubadoo97]

Any cheaper by the case? Damn at $9 a bottle I'd be buying it by the case if I could

[JReichert]

Blanton's. I'm a sucker for horses. : )

I'll take JD Single Barrel or Wild Turkey Rare Breed any day. Booker's is good but holy cow it's got punch.

JD Honey is like maple syrup, I'd drink that @ 8 in the morning.

[scubadoo97]

I was at a friends last week for dinner. He pulled out the JD honey and after tasting it for the first time I said it would be good on pancakes.

[scubadoo97]

Currently sipping a non chill filtered EC12' and have two unknown wheaters to taste for a blind tasting before the nights up

[ncyankee101]

In response to the original post - Old weller 107 has been one of my favorites for a while now, and though I had heard good things I had passed on the special reserve because it is only a couple bucks cheaper here in NC ($19 vs $23, and the OWA goes on sale for $20).

A friend recently brought me a couple bottles of the special reserve back from Atl where it is only $10 at Total wine, and I have to say at that price it may be the best liquor bargain I have come across yet.

[scubadoo97]

I'd always pass on the Special Reserve for the OWA 107. The extra proof carries a bit more flavor, 107 vs 90. I find the OWA to have a better mouthfeel. Thicker with a richer taste. One of my favorite pours.

But at 10 bucks a bottle for the SR I'd be stocking up.

[ncyankee101]

Scuba - what's odd is that their price on the OWA is a rather high $26, it they had a proportionally good deal on it - say $15-16 - I would definitely be stocking up.

[scubadoo97]

Yeah, $26 is a bit high

[Blind Mind]

We get hosed here in Miami for $33 on the OWA which has led me to sourcing thru TPS at $21. Regardless, OWA is currently my value bourbon of choice, the one I grab when I don't wanna think about what I drink for the night. I've infused it a couple different ways and the proof always keeps the infusion as the rhythm guitar while the bourbon rocks face melting solos.

[ncyankee101]

I have three "bargain" (I can get for ~$20-23) Bourbons I love - OWA, OGD 114 and Eli Craig 12 yr - and I honestly can't say which is my favorite, all are awesome. Also George Dickel No 12 Tennessee whiskey in the same price range.

I haven't found many more expensive Bourbons I like better than these, though I have yet to try some of the less widely available, moderately priced (~$40) Bourbons I have seen others rave about, such as Black Maple Hill and Rock Hill farms. I do like wild Turkey rare breed though not any more than the ones above. I find Blanton's OK but a little too smooth and not all that interesting (I call it "Blandon's). I haven't had many high end Bourbons, but ones I have tasted in bars are Woodford Reserve Seasoned oak and George T Stagg, I enjoyed both but I haven't had enough to really form an opinion.

I also keep forgetting to buy Russell's reserve for a decent price when I have the chance, though I have the rye which I like quite a bit.

[Blind Mind]

Time to revive this thread with a bit of trickanery...

Was at the booze store yesterday and noticed 3 bourbons I'd not seen nor heard of before - Two Star (what an awful name), Black Ridge Small Batch, and Chestnut Farm. The bottles looked strangely familiar... I scoured the internet on my phone but best I could come up with was a $9.99 price on Two Star (It was $18.99 at my location...ugh). Well, in the name of research, I took one for the team and made the purchase of each, padding myself with a bottle of Willett 5yr Rye (which I love, especially under $30).

Notice any similarities here?

[scubadoo97]

Is the juice coming from BT? Similar bottles don't mean similar taste. How did they fare?

[scubadoo97]

A quick search shows the Chestnut Farm coming from a distillery named Clear Springs in Bardstown with a possible Beam connection.

The Black Ridge and Two Star are BT. OWA is such fantastic bourbon, I hope you are planning on a few blind tastings to see how they compare.

[Blind Mind]

Forgot to mention the Clear Springs Distillery as the named source on the bottles. I think they are all BT because why would BT allow Beam to ripoff their bottle design? No way am I implying similar taste, just same bottles probably mean same producer. Yes, tastings a plenty are on the way.

Didn't help that there were no age listings on the bottle, nor really any detail at all on bottle or store placard. One thing I did at the store was hold each bottle up side by side in the light to see if there was any difference in color. There really wasn't. I tasted the Chestnut Farm ($43, 90 proof) first last night. I was disappointed. I found the nose very woody with a little sweetness. The taste was very woody and astringent with little sweet notes getting blocked by the wood but they were there. Very thin whiskey but smooth and very little spice which leads me to believe it's a wheated recipe, possibly a young one. Finish was fast and pretty plain. I'm gonna go at it again tonight, maybe add water or ice or try letting it breathe a bit to see if that changes anything. If not, this one is a dud for the price IMO.

Out of curiosity, I hit the Black Ridge too ($30, 90 proof). This one fared much better. The nose was similar but a little more sweetness and a touch of fruit. Fruit appeared again when tasted and finish was pretty good. I only had a small pour, not enough to get a good feel, so will revisit this again tonite too.

Also nosed the Two Stars and found similar notes there too. Didn't taste though.

[scubadoo97]

There is some discussion on Straightbourbon about these products.

It would have been nice to see something a little higher in pf. At least 107 ;-)

[Blind Mind]

I searched there but found minimal info. Heard that on the higher proof. Tonite my tennis game was rained out so I'm getting exercise the Old Fashioned way using the Chestnut Farm and its actually not bad. I still don't like it neat. The Two Stars and Black Ridge fair much better IMO.

[Blind Mind]

Confirmed that all 3 of these are from Sazerac aka Buffalo Trace. All labels say they come from Clear Springs Distillery.

http://www.sazerac.com/BrandPortfolio...

[JMF]

That Willet 5 yr rye is great stuff. All the Willet products are. I was hanging out at Willet with the master distiller a few weeks ago. A group of us are buying a whole barrel of it and splitting it up with around 7-8 bottles each. I got to go climbing around their rick house with a cordless drill, drilling holes in barrels, getting samples, and plugging up the barrels again.

[scubadoo97]

Willett does turn out some damn good bourbon. It should be interesting to see how their first distillate turns out. Drew is a good guy and I wish him much success.

[JMF]

Ah, you know Drew. Yes, a very good guy. He invited me to come spend a few weeks with him to see how they do their mashing and fermentation. Their new still and fermentation tanks are great.

[Blind Mind]

I used to not be much of a fan of the Willett single barrel but have changed my tune. The aged single barrel unfiltered bourbon I got from TPS is fanfuckingtastic. Love their eyes too which I believe are LDI juice.

[scubadoo97]

Yes if it says distilled in Indiana it's LDI rye. It's the best of the LDI rye that I've tasted but still has a lot of that minty taste they are known for

[scubadoo97]

had a generous pour of Rock Hill Farms last night. Very tasty and way to drinkable neat

[Blind Mind]

Love RHF. It's a single barrel winner. Debated pouring one last night but opted for Rittenhouse 23. Either would've been a failure...I fell asleep on the couch after 1 sip haha.

You hear about this wheater that Heaven Hill is supposedly releasing? Heard its a blend of 6-12yr bourbons. Gonna retail around $25 from what I read. I think 92 proof too. I'm not a huge HH fan but this one sounds interesting.

[scubadoo97]

At first I was thinking about the Parker's Heritage Collection but not at that price point.

Aged wheated bourbon is not too plentiful at the moment.

Not a big HH fan but still like EC 12 and just got an un chill filtered bottle that has a bit more nose and flavor.

[Blind Mind]

I like EC 12 and Rittenhouse Rye and some of the Parker's have been real gems. The bourbon I mentioned is called Larceny. Looks to play up as a rival to Makers w/ the wheated mash and low price point.

I did a search and found the original article I read. Check it out here: http://drinks.seriouseats.com/2012/08...

[scubadoo97]

Yeah I have heard about this one. Will be part of a wheater blind tasting we will be doing very soon

[wineguy7]

I found Larceny at Beverage Warehouse during a recent visit to Los Angeles. $22.99/bottle and it had a $10 mail-in coupon on the neck. Did a blind tasting against Makers here in S.F. Larceny seemed to deliver much more flavor and didn't seem as hot.

[scubadoo97]

Nice to have another mid shelf wheater

[JMF]

I know several high quality bars in NYC that now serve Larceny and don't carry Makers anymore. Better price, better quality, more flavor.

[JMF]

Larceny is 6 yr old Old Fitzgerald rebranded.

[ncyankee101]

I haven't heard about this one but it sounds like a competitor for the Weller 12 yr, which I have yet to try but is on my list since I love Old weller 107 (which is 7 yrs old).

[Blind Mind]

I've been enjoying 2 pretty sweet finds I was tipped off on. The first is Wild Turkey American Spirit. I got it at $69.99 which from what I've researched is a pretty good price. The bottle was also from 2007 and signed by Jimmy Russell who I actually met a few months back. This one is real powerful on the nose, especially sipped neat from a Riedel crystal glass or Glencairn. Nice leather, tobacco, chocolate, toffee, grain, char flavor. Not overly woody for a 15yr bourbon. Finish is pretty smooth, peppery, and hints of that pipe tobacco again.

The other one I found was a big one. Rittenhouse 23yr...for $99.99!! I'm guessing this one sat on the shelf for a long time and the shop owner wanted to liquidate it because cheapest I've see has been $170. Haven't spent too much time with it to get a good feel but loved my first taste. Very sweet for a rye, probably due to the age. Somewhat hot, lots of pepper on the finish. Again, need more time but a fantastic whiskey nonetheless.

[JMF]

Nice score on those, especially the Rittenhouse 23. I've had it a few times at events, great rye whiskey.

[Blind Mind]

Thanks, loving it!

[tristis]

I picked up a bottle of Johnny Drum Private Stock recently, following a recommendation from one of the sales people at my local specialty liquor store, and I am very pleased with it. It's 101 proof, so it definitely needs a little bit of water or ice, but I like my Bourbon on the rocks most of the time anyway.

[scubadoo97]

Sipping some Four Roses SB at the moment. Great blend of berry fruit and spice. One of my favorites

[scubadoo97]

Sipping on a Four Roses SB OESO while searching CH. Just Yumm!

[curseofleisure]

It has to my attention that today is ”NATIONAL BOURBON DAY” in case anyone needed a excuse.

[Blind Mind]

I'm gonna go out on a limb and say that to most people posting here every day is National Bourbon Day! :)

I've been having a mean affair with Weller Antique lately. I love the stuff and can get it under $30/bottle. At 107 proof, this wheater is a keeper, big time. I once heard rumblings that it's the same mash bill as Pappy 15yr but have yet to confirm. I will be doing a side by side comparison soon.

[scubadoo97]

Do a blind tasting Blind MInd. Let us know how it came out

OWA is an excellent whiskey and a great value at that. 107 is just enough alcohol to carry a lot of flavor yet still be very pleasant to drink neat.

[sku]

Pappy 15 changes from year to year as it is sometimes blends of bourbons made at different distilleries, but a good portion of it (and possibly all of it for some releases) since last year has been the Buffalo Trace wheated mash which is, indeed, the same mash used for all the Weller whiskies.

[JMF]

I've been enjoying that lately as well. A nice wheater and at $23 near me a steal.

[Blind Mind]

$23 for the Antique?!?!?! That IS a steal!!

I also thought using OWA as a base for my Benton's Bourbon that I infused with Allen Benton's bacon (aka the best bacon ever created) worked out really well. I figured a wheater would be more of a blank canvas for the smokiness of this bacon and I was right. If you haven't tried Benton's bacon and are a bacon lover, it's a must do. So smokey you can smell it through the box it comes in. The Benton's Old Fashioned is a winner!

I also used the Weller 12yr and infused with citrus and vanilla. It made for an awesome after dinner sipper.

[JMF]

I've enjoyed Benton's for many years. Except when food magazines write about them and they get huge orders for several months. It throws off their quality for several months after.

I first had a Benton's Old Fashioned within days of when Don Lee created it back in 2007 when he worked at PDT. They still have it on the menu there. I was just hanging out at a sensory panel with Don last week.

[Blind Mind]

I hear ya, JMF. I was surprised when my last order of Benton's came in so quickly. Truly awesome stuff.

I modified my Benton's Old Fashioned recipe off of the PDT one, subbing orange Angostura for the bitters and going with a muddled sugar cube over the maple syrup because I haven't liked the use of maple in cocktails yet. I also don't know what bourbon they infuse with (I read FR Yellow but who knows?) but I like the 107 proof OWA for the extra kick. I have found that it takes a little more fat to get past the heavier proof though so I use about 1.5oz when I infuse it.

[JMF]

Yes, FR Yellow
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jkBoXX...

[ncyankee101]

We can get the OWA here in NC on sale for $19, regular $23 (same for Elijah Craig 12 yr).

Being state-controlled, most of our prices are not very good but we have a few (mainly whiskey) that for some reason are as good as anywhere in the US. Another one is Bernheim's original wheat whiskey, $25 / $22 on sale.

[PaulF]

I'm about to open a bottle of Suntory Yamazaki Whiskey.

Technically not a bourbon, I just realized, but I've been looking forward to trying it. I asked for a bottle for my birthday and that's what I got.

[JNUNZMAN]

and how was it?????? Inquiring minds want to know!!!

[CornellWilliams]

I loved the Yamazaki. Lost it on a bet without even trying it. Made sure to have a glass every time I went to my buddy's house. I'd buy it again.

[McCleanman]

Haven't checked to see if anyone has mentioned it yet....but,

Prichard's Double Barrel Bourbon is one of the best I have had in a while.

On another note, I am very excited to try High West's new bourbon "Camp Fire" a mix between both bourbon and scotch.

[robky]

I am born and raised in Kentucky and I like my bourbon. I personally like sipping my bourbon neat, rather than in cocktails. So that probably influences my choices.Call me a snob, but I don't like my bourbons lower than 90 proof. I have tried pretty much every bourbon there is, but there are a few which I always keep coming back to. First, my go-to bourbon is Maker's Mark. I find that it is smooth yet still strong. At 90 proof, it is a good staple bourbon. I don't tend to get hangovers with it either. I always have a bottle of Makers handy! I like Knob Creek too, but not as much as Makers. It gets a bad rap in some areas, but Wild Turkey 101 is really a great bourbon too. It is quite complex, and very rye-heavy. I don't even like rye-heavy bourbons, but Wild Turkey 101 is an exception. It tastes of oak, charred wood, burnt sugar, and has a wonderful long burn to it that lingers. It wouldn't be my go-to bourbon, but Wild Turkey 101 is underrated and an excellent product. Master Distiller Jimmy Russell has been making Wild Turkey the same for over 50 years. I love some Wild Turkey in the winter. One bourbon that I can't stand is Bulleit. It's very rye-heavy, but it just tasted like medicine to me. No real complexity that I could pick up. The best bourbon I have tried lately is Bookers, by Jim Beam, at a whopping 120-plus proof, right out of the barrel, no watering down! It is so smooth for such a high proof bourbon. Dangerously good. But not for everyday use! My everyday bourbon will remain Makers Mark, it's just my favorite of all.

[jgg13]

If I didn't know that the bourbons you mention were from different companies I might actually make a bold statement about the veracity of your claims. But I do know that these are different companies, so I won't.

[JNUNZMAN]

I just had a buddy give me a bottle of E.H. Taylor Tornado Surviving bourbon.........Excellent!!! Apparently Buffalo Trace had a local tornado blow the roof off of an aging building which exposed the barrels to the elements until they could construct a new building, which imparted a different flavor profile to the bourbon. I'm not sure if I would have bought it myself given the $75 price tag, but regardless, it is excellent.,

[Blind Mind]

Tried that on Saturday and agree that it is excellent. The sour mash and single barrel offerings under the E.H. Taylor label were also fantastic. I found the Single Barrel for much less at Specs in Houston when I visited there. Price was $58 for cash purchase.

[Dapuma]

makers mark 46 - really like that for manhattens

also tried a four roses manhatten which i enjoyed as well

both with vya vermouth

[scubadoo97]

Can't seem to find Vya in my area :-(

FR is a high rye bourbon so does work well in manhattens.
MM46 is by far their best product.

[Dapuma]

i have to try the vya with a negroni but if it can hold up in there it could be my overall go to - carpano doesnt make a good negroni and punt e mas doesnt seem like it would make a good manhatten (but i have not tried)

having two or 3 open bottles of sweet vermouth is just a waste - although delicious until they start to go bad

[EvergreenDan]

If you like Punt e Mes on its own, then I think you will like it in a Manhattan. You may end up using a bit less than you would a normal sweet vermouth to avoid overwhelming the Manhattan. It lacks the vanilla of Antica Formula, making it more flexibile. Punt e Mes has become my house sweet vermouth, but then I'm a bitterness evangelist.

Unlike dry vermouth, sweet vermouth lasts a looooong time if refrigerated and evacuated.

--
www.kindredcocktails.com | Craft + Collect + Concoct + Categorize + Community

[Dapuma]

what about just refrigerated?

i havent gotten a vac system (i should but i havent)

[EvergreenDan]

Don't know, but the vacu-vin seems available is most good liquor stores. It is cheap and only a slight pain to use. Just buy one.

[Dapuma]

ordered, will have it tuesday :)

no idea why have been so stubborn on getting it

[EvergreenDan]

Surprised you couldn't find it locally. Buy extra corks. One for every bottle that you think you might have open, plus one or two for wines that you don't finish.

[metalrules]

Since i do like Ezra Brooks --- what other bourbons that are in that price range are better? I still want to check out Old Ezra 101 --- i have also herd alot about George Dickle and Old Grandad 114. what should i check out?

[Blind Mind]

Strongly recommend OGD 114. Great value there. Here's a post I did awhile back on bourbons under $30 that you might find helpful.

http://blindtastes.blogspot.com/2011/...

[ncyankee101]

I have to say I would second everything on your list I have had, except for Eagle rare - I know a lot of people are fans of that one but I just didn't love it, though I wanted to. There just seems to be nothing in the mid-palate, compared to lower priced (in NC) Bourbons I really like such as EC 12, OGD 114 and Old weller 107 (I have yet to try the 12 yr but it is definitely on my list.)

I have yet to try the Corner Creek, Jefferson's or EWSB. Have had the basic Old Forest but not the Signature, is it a big improvement.

I will be getting a bottle of 1792 Ridgemont reserve next weekend, have you had that?

[ncyankee101]

Just another note on the Eagle rare 10 yr - I bought a bottle of this in January, drank about half the bottle over the course of the next few weeks as I find many liquors improve a lot after being open a couple days to a week, but I just never found it very interesting.

I just had this again for the first time in maybe 2 months and I would have to admit it seems to have improved somewhat from exposure to air. While I still wouldn't put it among my favorite Bourbons, the bland sweet entry now seems to have a pleasant cinnamon toast kind of thing going on, like what I get from some better Bourbons after adding water or ice. Still not much going on in the mid palate but it does seem to be a definite improvement over the freshly opened bottle.

[Blind Mind]

Glad you liked the post. There are a few others I could've put up there but held it to 10. 1792 is just OK to me. I will admit it's been some time since I last sipped it and since I don't have a bottle on my bar already maybe I'll go pick one up to add to the collection.

I like the Forrester Signature for it's chocolatey notes and for variety. I'm not one to drink the same whiskey every night. I like to switch it up. The Forrester Birthday Bourbon is pretty good too.

Had Corner Creek last night while out watching the Heat vs Knicks game. I'd forgotten about that for awhile. Remembered how easy it is to sip although I must admit I found it to be pretty sweet too.

[ncyankee101]

Well I got that bottle of 1792 - gotta say though there is nothing bad about it, it is definitely not very interesting. Reminds me a lot of Maker's mark, sweet entry no middle decent finish though with some nice wood. I didn't notice the bitterness that Sku did in his review at LA Whiskey society.

Very nice bottle, glad I only paid $20 for this.

At least it doesn't have the off taste I noted in the Eagle rare 10 yr when I first opened it - I am going to let this one sit a while and see if air helps it as it did with that one.

[Blind Mind]

I too went out and got a bottle and confirmed my recollection that it's merely OK. It'll get consumed though. Like you I paid $19.99 so not too bad.

Made a couple Manhattans with Redemption High Rye Bourbon last week that were terrific. I'm not 100% but I believe this is the 2nd highest rye content in a bourbon next to Four Roses Single Barrel. Not overly tasty but provides enough bang for the buck and allows the booze to shine in a cocktail.

[sku]

Actually, Redemption has slightly more rye that Four Roses. Redemption's mashbill is 60% corn, 38.2% rye and 1.8% barley. The mashbill that Four Roses uses for their regular single barres (OBSV) is 60% corn, 35% rye, 5% malted barley. And there are some higher rye mashbills that have been used in smaller productions. A bourbon called Hooker's House (made in Kentucky but bottled by a California company) has a 54% corn and 46% rye bill.

[Blind Mind]

aw crap, I thought Redemption was 30%...on the road and no bottle in front of me. Too lazy to research online = fail. Haha

[curseofleisure]

I tried Old Weller 107 recently and was extremely impressed. Plan to buy a bottle soon.

[PeterB]

Finally tried Old Forester and have to say it is good for an inexpensive bourbon. I mostly use it to make Old Fashioneds. With ice. I have Jim Beam Rye for Sazeracs.

[metalrules]

What do you think about Ezra Brooks and Old Ezra 101? to me e.b. has a great taste that is better than jack. for the price - you just cant beat it for the quality and the taste. i havent had old ezra 101 yet -- but i will soon. i also like Wild Turkey 101 - but again why spend the extra $ if you dont have to.

[Blind Mind]

Thought I'd update this post with what I've been enjoying lately...

I've been hitting the Rock Hill Farms again and just love the stuff. Also have really enjoyed Hancock's President's Reserve as a nice mid-range value. Four Roses Small Batch & Single Barrel also getting lots of play on my home bar. I normally drink neat or rocky but have found that the high rye content of the single barrel makes for a great Manhattan.

I also stumbled upon what could be the best value bourbon I've tasted to date - Evan Williams 1783. This is a small batch (as ambiguous as the term can be) bourbon aged for 10 years. At 86 proof, it's an easy sipper. Some notes of chocolate, oak, nuttiness, and a mildly spicy finish. I've mostly sipped neat or with one tiny cube of ice as I've found too much ice or water drowns out the flavor considerably. I haven't tried mixing up any cocktails At $9.99 for a 750ml bottle, this is one to give a shot for sure.

[ncyankee101]

I went through a 375 ml bottle of that a while back,when I first started drinking Bourbon. I never really tasted in critically, but I remember it being decent, I might give it another try.

I think I had bought Ancient Ancient Age at around that same time and was very impressed with it for $14 a 750 (which is the same price as EW 1783 here), though I don't currently have a bottle of that one on hand.

[hhmoore]

I've been enjoying Noah's Mill quite a bit (bought another bottle recently, just to make sure I have it on hand). I also started sampling the Colonel EH Taylor "Tornado", which I found better than the single barrel; and got reacquainted with Bulleit last weekend with a group of friends.

[Blind Mind]

I'm a HUGE fan of Ancient Ancient Age. I have 2 bottles on the home bar, one being a private barrel selection. Great juice at a great price.

[PaulF]

Good rec.

I've been enjoying Elijah Craig lately.

The Beverage Warehouse in my neighborhood gets a whole barrel bottled after taste testing and the bottle I've got is really nice. I'm not expert enough to note the distinctive flavors -- I just like it.

[Blind Mind]

I'm really enjoying a couple of bourbons out of Virginia right now - Abraham Bowman (barrel #1 from TPS) and John J. Bowman Single Barrel. The Abraham is barrel strength and weighs in around 138proof which makes it a little hot on entry but soon gives way to some tasty spice and a layer of sweetness with lots of caramel and vanilla. John J Bowman is a lot more palatable at 100 proof and easily sipped neat. Very smooth whiskey with nice toffee, vanilla, leather, and a bit of nuttiness to it. I read a rumor that this whiskey is Buffalo Trace distillate that is aged in Virginia at the A. Smith Bowman distillery. More proof to that rumor can be found on the Buffalo Trace website, www.greatbourbon.com, where they list the Bowman products under their whiskey brands. Great stuff if you can snag it.

[scubadoo97]

Abraham Bowman bourbon and rye has been stellar. Too bad the Limited Edition Rye is all gone. Should have snagged more from TPS when it was around. What they do with the distillate back in Virgina is magic.

[sku]

The Buffalo Trace and Bowman Distilleries have common ownsership (The Sazerac Co.). The Bowman label whiskeys get their first distillation at Buffalo Trace in Kentucky and are then redistilled and aged at the Bowman Distillery in Virginia.

Bowman was long home to the Virginia Gentleman brand which is a good bargain whiskey, but they have recently have new distillery management and have really stepped up with the Bowman label. The Bowman rye from The Party Source is also excellent stuff.

[hhmoore]

I just placed an order for a couple bottles of John J Bowman single barrel (and I figured I might as well grab a bottle of the Abraham Bowman, as well). Thanks for the tip!

[ncyankee101]

At the moment I am doing a side-by-side between two moderately high-proof Bourbons - Wild Turkey Rare Breed (108) and Old Grand Dad 114. Kind of hard to call, both are excellent - and mouth-numbing. I give a slight edge to the OGD as it has a slightly richer palate and smoother finish, but a large edge on the basis of price, as it is roughly $10 less in most places.

[scubadoo97]

OGD 114 is an exceptional value. I prefer the WT 101 to the Rare Breed

[ncyankee101]

I haven't had the 101 in a while, it was one of the first Bourbons I tried and I didn't love it, but I have acquired more of a taste for it and I really need to give it another try. I also didn't like Knob Creek the first time but do now.

[scubadoo97]

All higher rye bourbons. Do a side by side blind tasting of the WT 101 and the WT RB. Maybe even the WT 101, RB, OGD 114 and KC. Take some notes and compare. Best way to find out which drink you like best. I have little stickers I put on the bottom of my glasses when doing a blind tasting of know products. As long as you use identical glasses it's difficult to know which is which so you can do a fair blind tasting.

[ncyankee101]

I mark one with black marker on the bottom, I can only do two at a time because I have pairs of glasses - two Glencairn and two mini snifters that are my go-to spirits glasses. Also got these odd-looking Chef & Sommelier spirits glasses in an Appleton 12 yr gift pack, I have been using them quite a bit lately and like them. Very wide bowl tapering upward, seem designed to bring out the nose.

[scubadoo97]

As long as you can't tell them apart while sipping.

Last year when I picked up an Appleton 12 YO gift pack they had the Ridel glasses in the set. I find Glencairn to concentrate some of the higher proof bourbons a bit too much. I'm really enjoying sipping from a snifter these days

[ncyankee101]

Yeah I am finding I am getting away from my Glencairn glasses for most things, they are great if you are drinking something subtle like a Speyside Scotch or a light rum, but can definitely overwhelm the nose on some more potent liquors such as Islays or dark rums. They are also good for Tequila where the nose is more subtle.

I have a pair of mini snifters I got from World Market for $2 each that are great all-purpose tasters, and just the right size that a 1-1.5 oz pour doesn't look lost.

[Blind Mind]

I have those tiny Riedel snifters too and I love 'em. I got my old man some Glencairns for his bday this year and I was a bit jealous of the gift because I love the weight of that glass in my hand.

I also found this kickass double old fashioned glass a few months ago and bought 2 dozen for a tasting I ran. For the money, these are tough to beat - http://www.cb2.com/barware/dining/coo.... I like the low profile of them and the weighted glass bottom gives it a great feel. Made a couple Van Winkle Old Fashioneds last night based on Julian Van Winkle's recipe in this month's Lucky Peach magazine. Usually I drink PVW neat but I tried something new and loved it.

[ncyankee101]

I have old fashioned glasses very similar to those, but with bottoms that are sort of dimpled (for want of a better word) - got them free with some Omara's Irish Cream from Sam's club years ago. The weighted bottom gives them a nice feel and makes them very stable. I use them for all my mixed drinks.

[scubadoo97]

What I'm sipping from most often

[imhungryletseat]

I agree with PaulF; this is a great thread!!!
I just finished a bottle of Basil H..the flavors were good, but it was a little too 'low octane' for my taste
Looks like I am going back to Bakers as one of my places has it for $34.44 for the 750.....although there are also sales on Bulleit, Makers Mark, and Knob Creek 1.75's I could get one of everything, but I don't think my kids would appreciate Santa bringing them Bourbon!!!!

[Blind Mind]

I bet they would after a few sips!

Agreed on the "low octane" of BH at 80 proof but that's sorta what I like about it. I don't have to think about it and can just enjoy it. I was perplexed when my favorite bar used it in a cocktail on their brunch menu because I didn't think the whiskey would come through at all. It turns out it's one of my favorite daytime cocktails now.

I've made a mental note to get back into WT again. I will say that the OGD 114 is hard to get away from at the price but a side by side comparison could be fun.

[PaulF]

I'd just like to note that this is one of the best, most informative and friendliest threads I've ever participated in on this forum.

[PaulF]

I just bought a bottle of Elijah Craig 12 year and really, really like it.

Just to sum up: I'd been a Jim Beam drinker who recently moved up to the Jim Beam Black. Wanting to branch out, my liquor guy (Beverage Warehouse for those who live near Culver City, California) recommended the Eagle Rare and I finished off that bottle. Then i worked my way through a bottle of Bulleit (purchased at Trader Joe's -- 19.99 as opposed to 23.99), then yesterday my Bev Warehouse guy recommended the Elijah Craig because I wanted something in the same price range (the Eagle Rare is 25.99, EC is 23.99 like the Bulleit).

I think I'm liking it better than the Bulleit, though I liked that just fine. I like the lingering flavor of the Elijah Craig at the back of my mouth a bit better, it's milder/more subtle.

I would recommend and/or drink any of them, but at the moment I'm liking Elijah Craig more than the Bulleit, and about the same as the Eagle Rare.

[ncyankee101]

Thanks for reminding me, I need to grab another bottle of EC 12 yr while it's on sale for $19 this month here in NC. Maybe Old Weller 107 also, for the same price, two of my favorites for the money. I just wish we had Old Grand Dad 114 here.

[scubadoo97]

EC 12 is my go to off the shelf mid level bourbon. It's got that Heaven Hill profile which some find too minty but I like it.

[PaulF]

Wow, I need to taste it some more. I didn't get a minty taste. I'm not a big fan of that taste, either.

Maybe it's really subtle. To me, it was less sweet than the Bulleit, with a hint more pepper flavor.

[ncyankee101]

I can't say I really get anything I would call "minty" in EC 12 either. I do get a lot of rye spice, which I guess some people might call "minty" as it does sort of leave a lingering burning sensation on the tongue like spearmint does.

[scubadoo97]

I have to admit I don't get any mint. May a little grassy note but the caramel and vanilla and fruit are predominate.

[Blind Mind]

I think it mightve been you, scubadoo, who turned me on to EC 12yr and it quickly became one of my favorite value bourbons.

[hhmoore]

Knob Creek Single Barrel is a bit strong for my taste, at least for sipping neat.
Recently tried Basil Hayden, for the first time...but probably wouldn't purchase it for home.
I really like the Rock Hill Farms Single Barrel, and generally have that on hand.
And, or course, Pappy Van Winkle. I managed to stock up a bit this year, though the 15 yr almost eluded me...most local places denied even getting it.

[scubadoo97]

Show off ;-D Nice collection
If you like Rock Hill Farms you will may like Elmer T Lee at a better price point. Both BT mash bill #2

[ncyankee101]

I've heard excellent things about ETL - I almost bought it several times at one store here in NC but there was always something else on sale that I wanted, and one time I finally went back to buy it - it was gone, and I haven't seen it since.

[hhmoore]

Elmer T Lee is on my short list of bourbons to try. I appreciate the recommendation - thanks.

[Blind Mind]

Elmer T Lee is one of my favorites, as is Rock Hill Farms. Sazerac 18yr is another one I'm loving right now. Enjoyed with a Partagas yesterday which was a great combo.

The bourbon I'm really impressed with right now though is Colonel E.H. Taylor Single Barrel. Quickly became one of my favorites of all time.

[zin1953]

I just wish I could find a bottle of Sazerac 18 -- I finished mine, and can't seem to find one to save my life!

[ncyankee101]

I have yet to see it anywhere online, I found a review that stated

"around here, stocks of Sazerac 18 just disappeared from the shelves almost immediately this year, with good reason. Buy some if you can find it."

[scubadoo97]

One of our local liquor stores lists it on their website but says in store only for $79.99

Seems to be the going rate for high end rye with significant age

And then there's Ebay. One of the reasons it's hard to find is it get's scarfed up quickly to be resold on Ebay. grrrrrr

[scubadoo97]

You also may want to try Ancient Ancient Age 10 YO since it too is the made from the same mash bill by BT. I can't find it anywhere by me but some say it's is very close to ETL and RHF.

[Blind Mind]

That's on my "shopping list" at The Party Source right now. Purchase being made soon!

[scubadoo97]

Maybe do a blind tasting of RHF, AAA and ELT if you have them.

I think I have a E. H. Taylor SB sample that we did a tasting of a while back. I have a part of that sample hanging around some where. Need to give it another try.

[ncyankee101]

The AAA 10 yr is the one you can only get in Kentucky, right?

[scubadoo97]

I think that's where most of it is sold. I know Binny's has had it sometime in the past. Not to be confused with AAA 10 star. Boy it get's confusing.

[JMF]

I was hanging out yesterday with Lincoln and Wes Henderson. Licoln is the retired master distiller who created Woodford and many other bourbons, and sipped some of their new Angels Envy bourbon that is finished in port casks. really nice, medium light body, exceptionally smooth and approachable, a bit sweet up front, nice vanillins and just a bit of oak, with a dry finish that makes you look forward to the next sip. great neat, on the rocks, and in cocktails. Now I'm off to Whiskeyfest NYC.

[Blind Mind]

I'm a fan of AE, got a few bottles on the home bar. I like the floral notes, the way it coats the tongue and the madeira on the finish. Very smooth stuff but more like an after dinner sipper than an all-purpose bourbon IMHO.

[Blind Mind]

Well, I had a hunch I would find some of the Antiques as I drove by Total Wine on my way home from lunch yesterday and that hunch was confirmed true. Since their stock was limited and my spending has already been out of control this month I figured why not pile on some more? I picked up the Eagle Rare 17, Sazerac 18, and Stagg. I left the Handy because I know that will be there when I go back (last year's was there a looooooong time) and for some reason they don't get the Weller. The 3 I got are my favorites anyways. Tried the Stagg last night, still as firey as ever but still damn good. A few drops of water and it shines. Liked it better than last year's version but not as much as the 09. I can see why some skip over this collection because it really doesn't change all that much but I still think it's worth the extra $$.

[ncyankee101]

They have sazerac 18? is that this years release? I have been watching the online retailers and have yet to see it.

[Blind Mind]

Yessir, it's the 2011 and it's as awesome as ever. I love the Stagg but the Sazerac 18 could be my favorite of all the BTAC

[Blind Mind]

Here's a pic

[scubadoo97]

I've had some high proofers that were pretty easy to drink. The Stagg isn't one of them. I have a few graduated cylinders that I use to dilute to a known proof when needed. You can play around with different proofs until you find the one that really shines as apposed to just splashing water in willy nilly.

[EvergreenDan]

That's a good idea. I raised an eyebrow at "a few drops" Blind Mind's Stagg -- seems like not enough. I prefer regular proof spirits without water, but overproof surely needs dilution.

To what final proof do you usually dilute?

--
www.kindredcocktails.com | Craft + Collect + Concoct + Categorize + Community

[scubadoo97]

I have found that 107pf seems to be preferred with many barrel proof bourbons. Certainly that's not in stone. There are several online dilution calculators that can be used to accurately dilute that high proof down if desired. Sometimes I like them at full barrel strength and sometimes they really shine a bit lower. Last nights pour was a 2010 BTAC W. Larue Weller at 126.6pf which was quite tasty with no dilution.

[Blind Mind]

I drink the Stagg neat often, actually. Yes, it's fire but I sometimes like to "control my intake" i.e. - not have more than 1 drink in a night, so I take little sips. When I add a few drops it's to about a 1-1.5oz pour in a Riedel whiskey glass.

[ksherk]

What a great question! I drink George Dicket No. 17 at home for mixing with ginger ale (Schweppes, please). I have Eagle Rare and Woodford Reserve on hand for drinking straight (after dinner). When I'm out and ordering a Manhattan, my preferences are Eagle Rare or Bulleit (in those bars that carry them), Maker's Mark or Knob Creek otherwise.

I had Pappy Van Winkle after dinner at Herb Saint in New Orleans, on the recommendation of the waiter, and I'll be forever grateful.

[hawkeyeui93]

Water's for Washin', Dickel's for Drinkin' ....

[ncyankee101]

Dickel No. 17? Typo I guess? I have only seen cascade hollow, No 8 and No 12. I have the CH and No 12, and even the low end stuff is better than JD.

[hawkeyeui93]

Geo. Dickel No. 12 is an old friend in my household ....

[Blind Mind]

Was in Houston a few weeks back and was really impressed by the selection and even more by the pricing at Specs liquor store. They had nice stock on Black Maple Hill and Rock Hill Farms, two of my favorites, and a fantastic cash price (even the credit price was good), so I picked up a few bottles and had a buddy ship em to me as a favor. They got here the other day and I'm so happy to have Rock Hill Farms back on my bar. Great juice.

[scubadoo97]

Yes it is. RHF is a bit sweet and fruit forward but I like it. One I want to keep on my bar. I can't seem to find it on the shelves of my local stores but have ordered it online.+

[PaulF]

For those looking for Rock Hill Farms in L.A. -- they have it at Beverage Warehouse in Marina Del Rey. Beverage Warehouse ships as well, for those in other parts of the country.

As for bourbon, I'm working my way through a bottle of Bulleit that I bought at Trader Joe's, where they sell if for 20 bucks a bottle (it's a bit more at BW and the grocery stores). I'm enjoying it. It's a bit more mellow, I think, than the Eagle Rare I noted earlier in this thread.

Rock Hill Farms sounds great -- it's twice the price but maybe I'll indulge over the holidays.

[scubadoo97]

Sipping some RHF as I type. Sweet, lot of fruits, floral. Really a nice single barrel bourbon.

[ncyankee101]

$20 is a great price on Bulleit - if they have their rye for around the same price you should try it, I like it quite a bit, my favorite so far next to Sazerac.

[PaulF]

Haven't tried the rye ... will look for it.

TJ's always has it at that 20 dollar price. Everywhere else it's like 23-25.

[ncyankee101]

Here in NC it's $28, I've seen it at online retailers for anywhere from $19 at Hi time to $34 at DrinkupNY.

[pete k]

We're a bit spoiled for choice here in Nashville with the selection that's available. I recently tried the Blanton's Single Barrel and the Rowan's Creek KY Straight Bourbon.

Both of which I'd buy a bottle of.

[scubadoo97]

You know what the Dusty profile in Nashville is? I bet there is a lot of old stock around unless they have been scarfed up buy those that know

[invinotheresverde]

I just paid $30 for the Bulleit rye, but DH and I are really diggin' it.

[ncyankee101]

I saw 2 bottles of Thomas handy today at the local ABC store, really had to resist the temptation to part with $71 and get one, I have been spending waaaay too much money lately.

Looking around at the prices and (lack of) availability for this I think maybe I need to go back and grab both bottles.

[scubadoo97]

$70 seems to be the new norm for specialty bottlings.

[ncyankee101]

Hi time has it for $99, and I see it on ebay for $85-115 - so for a change it would appear the NC price is actually pretty good. The cheapest price I see online is $79 and that one is out of stock.

[Blind Mind]

Whenever I find myself "spending too much money lately" I just ride the wave, especially if it includes adding a nice whiskey to the home bar. Go for it! haha

[EvergreenDan]

The high price of Handy is softened a bit by the high proof. If it were diluted to 80 proof, that $71 bottle would be $45. High, but not as obscene as it seems.

I like Bulleit, but it is a touch mild for mixing. I'm about to try a bottle of Redemption. (I thought I had a bottle, then couldn't find it last night, then found it this morning. Yeah!) Alas, I'm out of Green Chartreuse, and that restock is always painful.

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www.kindredcocktails.com | Craft + Collect + Concoct + Categorize + Community

[pete k]

The redemption is really nice. A good bite that really holds up in cocktails.

It goes for around $23 a bottle here. I'm still debating the chartreuse purchase, it retails for around $60ish a bottle.

[ncyankee101]

I agree Bulleit does not hold up well for mixing, I prefer to sip that and the Sazerac 6 yr. Mixing duties go to Rittenhouse 100 and Wild Turkey Rye.

[PaulF]

I wouldn't mix Bulleit.

Just a few ice cubes ... let the ice work on it for a few minutes ... that's it for me

[Blind Mind]

I like Bulliet bourbon for mixing but not so much the rye. That one I like w/ a ice sphere. Redemption is better IMO. Love that stuff

[invinotheresverde]

Just mention GC a few extra times on your blog and I'm sure they'll ship you a bottle for free. ;)

[BiggieD]

I am really enjoying Jefferson's right now. Deep flavor with hints of chocolate or coffee for only $35 for 750mL. Highly recommend it.

[zmirzlina]

Been drinking Old Overholt these days - although a rye, there is a nice bready corn sweetness that comes through. My wife refers to it as a "caramel frito taste." And she's kinda right. Makes the best Manhattans, IMO.

[ncyankee101]

I find Overholt lacking in rye spice, much prefer Wild turkey rye or Rittenhouse 100 which don't let the vermouth dominate.

[Blind Mind]

Ok, I've got two questions about Old Rip Van Winkle 23yr...

1.) Saw this twice while on the road, once @ Husk in Charleston, SC ($100/glass) and the second time this past weekend @ Poison Girl in Houston, TX ($65/glass). I think if you're gonna pay for that bourbon, you buy a bottle. I looked online and found one on eBay but got outbid. Further searching has come up empty. Does this bourbon exist still? If so, any thoughts on where I could purchase a bottle?

2.) Is this something that will be done each year or is this a one time, one shot bottling?

[kyoung05]

I believe the 23yr old is one of their "standard" bottlings - stores like Cask in SF normally stock it (http://www.caskstore.com/pappy-van-wi...), although they're out of it currently. I've read several reviews that have indicated that while very good, it isn't much better than the 20yr bottling, while costing more than twice as much. That said, I haven't tried it personally, so I can't say how it compares to the 20yr (which I have tried, and even at $20/glass, thought it was well worth it).

[ncyankee101]

I have actually read several reviews by people that preferred the 20 yr old to the 23 yr old.

Hmmm odd chowhound does not seem to be allowing posting of external links today.

[sku]

There is Old Rip Van Winkle 23 and then there is Pappy Van Winkle 23. Pappy 23 is a regular bottling which is released each fall. It goes for around $220.

Old Rip Van Winkle 23 was a one-time specialty bottling from last year. Old Rip sold for around $350 but it was in short supply and I haven't seen any on shelves for a while (though it certainly could still be in stock in some stores). It is higher proof and came in a fancy decanter. (See pictures at link).

I thought the Old Rip was fantastic though very pricy and I don't know if it is on any retail shelves anymore. Pappy 23 is okay, but I actually prefer the 20 and 15 year old versions of Pappy.

http://recenteats.blogspot.com/2010/0...

[ncyankee101]

Sku - I was actually trying to post a link to the LAWS site but for some reason external links seem to be acting up today on this site. Some work, some send me to a dead page on this site.

[sku]

Yeah, if you go to the Site Talk area, they say they're working on it. Something to do with yesterday's site maintenance.

[Blind Mind]

Yes, I was speaking of the Old Rip 23yr. Not really worth $65-$100/glass to me (nor is anything for that matter) but to pay $400/bottle wouldnt be bad. From what you say it's not likely that I'll find one though.

[kyoung05]

Well, $65 for a glass of whiskey may seem a bit outrageous, but a glass of Château d'Yquem often goes for that, and I think it's well worth it.

[Blind Mind]

I just think for that money you might as well buy a bottle and enjoy it more often ;)

[StriperGuy]

"Well worth it" is relative. Not everyone has $65 to spend on a single glass of booze.

[JMF]

Anyone know anything about Black Maple Hill small batch? I picked up a bottle at Astor Wines last night and it was pretty tasty.

[Blind Mind]

Is that the one with the green label? Ive got a bottle of BMH on the way from Houston. Love that stuff.

[JMF]

No it's red ink on an off white background.

[Blind Mind]

Yes, that's the norm. I was thinking of the 16yr which actually has a black label but the bottle a friend of mine had one time had ink that had gone bad or something and become green.

[JMF]

I saw the green label a few years ago at LeNell's.

[Blind Mind]

What is the green label bottle? I've seen the BMH, BMH 16yr, and BMH 23yr Rye and none have green labels.

[JMF]

Have no clue, just remember seeing it several years ago. Next time I talk to LeNell I'll ask her.

[JMF]

I think it may have been the 18 yr rye

[JNUNZMAN]

I was visiting my inlaws in Lexington, KY last summer and wanted to pick up some bourbon that I wouldn't easily find in NJ.
Quite frankly, the only reason that I picked out Willets single barrel was due to the distinctive bottle that it came in. I would have remembered that bottle at Joe Canals liquor warehouse!!
It was phenomenal, even better than my favored Woodford.
I had my father in law buy me a bottle prior to coming for a visit and it apparently is tough to get in Kentucky due to it being such a small distiller.
Luckily for me, they only had this huge 1.75 litre decanter left!!!

[sku]

Just as an FYI, Willett's isn't a distillery, they are a product of Kentucky Bourbon Distillers (KBD), which despite the name, doesn't distill. They buy bulk whiskey from other distilleries and bottle it under Willett's and their other labels. There is nothing wrong with that, but it means that one Willett's may be very different from another, since they may well come from completely different distileries. Generally, though, my experience is that the Willett's series whiskeys tend to be quite good.

[MOREKASHA]

@ one time they were an actual producer but not now. They also put out the Noahs Mill Bourbon which is my house tiple. Very luscious and a big round flavor profile. Had the Willett and liked it as well.

[scubadoo97]

Yesterday's pour was a 17 yr old Vintage Wheated Bourbon from KBD.

[Blind Mind]

Had an opportunity to get me some of that while in Houston but focused on some other bottles at a lesser hit to the wallet instead. It's on my wish list for the home bar though. Any comparison to anything else out there?

[scubadoo97]

Maybe a Parker Heritage wheated bourbon even though the Parker cost as much or more depending on the expression. The proof on the Parker also varies on the expression. The cask strength is over 120 proof.

[PaulF]

My first time on the spirits board.

I just bought and am loving a bottle of Eagle Rare Single Barrel.

I bought it at Beverage Warehouse in Culver City, California. The only reason I mention that is that supposedly each barrel of this bourbon is a little different. The BW guys fly to Kentucky, taste different barrels, then have an entire barrel bottled for them. So, in theory, a bottle bought elsewhere might taste slightly differently.

Be that as is may, it's very tasty, very complex. I've been a regular Beam drinker, who upgraded to the Black. Went in to BW to buy a bottle of Bulleit, which was recommended to me, then bought the Eagle Rare because I really trust the guys at BW. They've turned me on to some excellent tequilas at good prices.

Eagle Rare was just under 25 dollars for 750 ml. So, a little more than JB Black, but not budget-busting more

ER gets good reviews on other web sites, too.

[sku]

Eagle Rare is good stuff at a great price, and you're absolutely right that as a single barrel bourbon there is some variation from barrel to barrel (though they still manage to keep it fairly consistent).

They also do a 17 year old version (not single barrel) which they release once per year in the fall, but it's significantly more expensive.

[kyoung05]

Agreed - Eagle Rare 10yr is probably one of the best sub $30 whiskeys around. That said, I recently stumbled upon a bottle of the Eagle Rare 17yr, and even at $80, it's a bargain -- quality-wise, I think it's comparable to Pappy Van Winkle 20yr, which is significantly more expensive.

[Blind Mind]

I recently highlighted 10 of my favorite bourbons under $30 here:

http://blindtastes.blogspot.com/2011/...

Eagle Rare is one of my all time favorite bourbons. It was a great day when my favorite bar added it as their "well" bourbon which sells for 1/2 off at happy hour

[ncyankee101]

(Edit - the problems are with the board not your link.)

How do you think the Weller 12 yr compares to the Antique 107?

I have heard really good things about Elmer T Lee but missed the chance buy some before it was discontinued here in NC, have you had it?

Though NC prices are usually higher than privatized states, we seem to be lucky with some Bourbons - I have gotten Elijah Craig as low as $18 on sale, and many of the others are a couple bucks less here. Florida has much better rum prices and selection though.

[Blind Mind]

I've not yet tried the Antique 107, just the 7yr and 12yr. And the 12yr I only really had a glass or 2 before infusing w/ citrus & vanilla (which came out to be terrific in a Manhattan or sipped neat as an after dinner drink).

I've not purchased a bottle of Elmer T Lee yet.

I visited the store this weekend and noticed a few I missed on my list for favorite bourbons under $30. They are: Knob Creek, Wathens, Four Roses Small Batch (I thought this one was more $35 range but last 2 local spots I've seen it was at $27.99 so I'm adding it), and Woodford Reserve (I'm surprised I didn't think to put this up)

[PaulF]

I wanted to add that even the Bev Warehouse guy suggested I buy Bulleit in the local Trader Joe's. It's about 23 or 24 dollars at BW and grocery stores but TJ's sells it for 19.99. Not a big difference I guess, but I'm in TJ's a couple of times a month, so I'll just pick it up there.

[Blind Mind]

A new spot in town boasts having the Jefferson's Presidential Select 18yr Single Barrel on the shelf. I've got a bottle of the 17yr on my home bar but never tried the 18yr. Reviews I've read have been mixed and it seems as if each barrel bottled yields a different profile from the up and down reviews I've read online. Most say the 17yr is more consistent. Any thoughts from this board?

Also, is there an 18yr and an 18yr Single Barrel or are they all 18yr SB? Reviews and other boards I've read seemed to imply that various stores around the country (K&L, Park Ave, etc) got the SB as personal bottlings that were mislabeled as "Batch 27" but were not and instead were SB.

[sku]

I believe they did a regular non-single barrel batch of Jefferson 18 as well as a Jefferson 18 single barrel, many of which went to retailers as their "private bottlings." The 17 yo release was not single barrel, but there was still some variation by batch.

I've had several different 17 batches and several 18s from different retailers and while there are subtle differences, they are fairly consistent. The 18 is obviously a year older and the ones I've had tend to have a bit more wood and less honey flavors, but it's a very subtle distinction.

[Blind Mind]

Thanks for the info, I was wondering about the private bottlings vs product for the masses and if there was any distinction with the single barrel being just for private bottlings. I think there is a sticker designation for each retailer on the bottle to show that it's single barrel. Again, this is just from research I've done on the internet.

[Blind Mind]

Saturday I hit the store and lo and behold they had the 18yr. It wasn't a private bottling so no single barrel. Correct me if I'm wrong, but this is basically the exact same bourbon as last year's 17yr, just aged an additional year in the barrel. I did a comparison when I got home and, while I like the 18yr, I prefer the overall flavor of the 17yr.

[Blind Mind]

Four Roses Single Barrel is one of my favorite bourbons but I have to say I've really enjoyed the Four Roses Small Batch lately. It's a little more tame than the single barrel but the flavor is fantastic.

[scubadoo97]

FR single barrel and small batch are excellent. With the single barrel you are getting 1 of 10 recipes so profile will vary. I like most all the FR expressions. The yellow label is a bit thin for my palate and I wish they would push the proof up but Jim is totally against it. I find my current FR single barrels OBSV are quite delicious and are easy to drink at the higher proof. No dilution required. It's a stable on my bar

[Blind Mind]

Heard that, brotha. I have the OESK at home and OBSV at a favorite bar of mine. The single barrel, regardless of it's expression, is always on my bar especially since a local shop has had it at $29.99 for awhile now!!

[JMF]

I agree. Last night I opened my second bottle of the Four Roses Small Batch this month.

[Blind Mind]

Went out on a limb and picked up some of Jim Beam's Devil's Cut. Can't say I'm a fan. I'll stick wtih their small batch products.

[imhungryletseat]

Been really enjoying Bakers lately, but the bottle unfortunately, is coming to an end.

Woodford used to be my favorite, but either my taste has changed, or the bottle I got last time has a different flavor profile. It's still good, but I have been using it for Manhattans and using the Bakers with a little water for sippin!

[JMF]

Yeah, I don't dare for the Devil's Cut that much myself. but I'll have to revisit it at a later point to see if I still feel that way. Sometimes a spirit that I like at first I care less for after a time, and vice versa.

[Blind Mind]

Really enjoying the Knob Creek Single Barrel right now.

[Spiritchaser]

Not a bourbon but I thought I would mention an absolutely incredible rye whiskey that I just tried in Vermont, Whistlepig. Imported from Canada, bottled in Vermont, overseen by a former Makers Mark distiller. Wonderful stuff, not cheap but well worth the price of admission...

[invinotheresverde]

Picked up the last bottle of Whistlepig in Burlington, I believe. Phenomenal.

[scubadoo97]

I found it a tasty rye but it did not score well in a blind tasting of 18 rye whiskeys our group did. As I recall I found nice spice and fruit on the nose and vanilla, floral notes and mint on the plate.

[funniduck]

Tuthilltown's Hudson 4-Grain Bourbon.

[zin1953]

It's not my usual, but I was VERY impressed by Jefferson's Presidential Select 17 Year Old Ketucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey . . . found it at D&M in San Francisco. According to their website -- http://www.dandm.com/product_info.php... -- it's wheated, and was among the last of the whiskies distilled by the old Stitzel-Weller distillery.

FWIW, W.L. Weller is now distilled at the Buffalo Trace Distillery, formerly the George T, Stagg Distillery, formerly the Albert Blanton Distillery, formerly the E.H. Taylor Distillery, formerly the . . . and on and on and on -- but there is no mention of Jefferson's being distilled there.

[sku]

When Stitzel-Weller broke up, the Weller label was purchased by Buffalo Trace and the Old Fitzgerald label by Heaven Hill.

Jefferson Presidential is label used by independent bottler McLain & Kyne. It is unrelated to either Heaven Hill or Buffalo Trace. They don't distill, but acquire Bourbon and bottle it. The Jefferson Presidential Select, as you note, was distilled by Stitzel-Weller. McLain & Kyne purchased it from somewhere (many speculate from Diageo which was the last owner of the distillery) and bottled it under their Jefferson label.

http://recenteats.blogspot.com/2009/1...

[zin1953]

Thanks very much -- makes a great deal of sense.

[wineguy7]

Fighting Cock, 103 proof, aged 6 years. Recently brought a bottle back from a trip to Texas as I had not seen it in California. I don't usually buy things for the label, but just had to in this case. Very good, with a bit of caramel, some heat and a little spicy. It seems to have some rye in it.

[zin1953]

Last time I saw it was in BevMo . . .

[wineguy7]

Thanks, good to know.

[bigmackdaddy]

Any whiskey/bourbon from Tuthilltown's Hudson.

[wedgie]

Knob Creek, Makers Mark and Buffalo Trace. Jim Beam with the Coke.

[rjh1967]

Decided to try George Dickel No. 12. I know it isn't a Bourbon. Any opinions?

[sku]

I'm a huge fan of Dickel 12 and think it's one of the great underrated American whiskeys. It's a great buy as well.

http://recenteats.blogspot.com/2008/0...

[DanW]

I currently have Eagle Rare 10 year and Pappy Van Winkle's Family Reserve 20 year on hand. The Eagle Rare gets used to make the occasional Old Fashioned, and the Pappy is slowly sipped neat.

[Blind Mind]

Nice lineup, DanW. I shed a tear each day that my bar lacks a Van Winkle adorning it's shelves... Right now, I've got Woodford, Woodford Seasoned Oak Finish, Makers 46, Four Roses Single Barrel Ltd Ed (barrel produced for friend of a friend), Jefferson 17yr, 2009 Eagle Rare 17yr, 2010 Eagle Rare 17yr, 2009 George T Stagg, 2010 George T Stagg, 2009 Sazerac 18yr (BT Antique), 2010 Sazerac 18yr, 2009 Thomas H Handy Rye, Redemption Rye, Ezra B, Elijah Craig 12yr, Willett (forget the age but it's the lesser one), Rowan's Creek, Old Whiskey River (w/ Willie Nelson guitar pick LOL!!!), Black Maple Hill, and an unopened bottle of I.W. Harper. I think that covers all of them but I may have missed one or two (I'm out of town). Oh yeah, just bought a bottle of Old Grandad 114 on Scubadoo97's recommendation - not bad! I was shocked at how smooth it is for a 114 proofer. Finish leaves a lot to be desired though. Good value for $22 though. Favorites are the 2009 Stagg, 2010 Eagle Rare, and the 2010 Sazerac. Least favorites are Old Whiskey River and Rowan's Creek.

Oh, and I went to that local store that advertised the Four Roses Single Barrel for $29.99 on the internet... Their bourbon selection was piss poor at the actual store which was odd. They were also kinda high priced compared to other shops around. I'm going to try and order on their site and see what happens...

[DanW]

My two bourbons are not a lineup—I am just getting started in my bourbon appreciation. Your list, on the other hand, definitely is a lineup.

How would you describe the Eagle Rare 17 year, relative to the bourbons that I have?

[Blind Mind]

The 17yr is similar to the 10yr in flavor but packs a little more spice and is more refined. I wrote about each here: http://blindtastes.blogspot.com/2010/...

The Van Winkle 20yr is in a class of its own. Quite possibly my favorite bourbon ever, even more than the 23yr.

[DanW]

Thanks for the info, it'll be a big help to me.

[jgg13]

From what I've seen, hardcore bourbon fans seem to prefer the Pappy 20 while the Pappy 23 appeals to the rest. I've only had the 23 which is awesome, but it sounds as if the 20 is more "bourbon-y"

[kyoung05]

I think people would generally agree that the 23 is better than the 20, just not for the price. There are diminishing returns at that point. FWIW, I've had the 20 which I liked a lot, but it was $18/glass. I don't know if I'd be willing to try the 23 for $30+/glass.

[sku]

I've generally preferred the 20 to the 23, not just on price but on flavor, but the bottlings do differ from year to year.

[scubadoo97]

"So which bourbon are you reaching for?"
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Reached for some 2010 George T. Stagg this evening. I'll need to do a side by side with a 2004 bottle Ii have. So far the 2010 is quite nice and smooth for this level of alcohol.

[JMF]

I had a bottle of the Stagg for New Years, I actually wasn't that impressed.

[rjh1967]

I just started drinking bourbon; I'm drinking Old Grand-Dad 86 right now. I want to try OGD 114 really soon, though. Any other suggestions?

[scubadoo97]

The OGD 114 is a good buy if you like the profile. Too many to list but some that come to mind are Wild Turkey 101, Knob Creek, Buffalo Trace, Four Roses Yellow label and Old Fitz just to name a few

[rjh1967]

Thanks; Four Roses is another that I've read about that I want to try. I want to drink bourbons that I haven't heard commonly talked about. Four Roses is one; well, all the others are, too, except for Wild Turkey 101.

[scubadoo97]

I happen to like Elijah Craig 12 as well.

[rjh1967]

Noted.

[Blind Mind]

I'm judging from your interests/suggestions you are looking for lower price range?

If that's the case, Elijah Craig 12 is a winner for sure. Eagle Rare is another great bourbon. Corner Creek is underrated if you ask me and I've found it as low as $14.99 for 750ml. Four Roses Single Barrel is a new fav of mine found locally for $29.95. Buffalo Trace is a great bourbon too.

[scubadoo97]

Wow that's a great price for FR SB. It's in the $40 plus range by me.

[Blind Mind]

yeah, i thoguht so. going to pick some up this weekend!

[JMF]

One of the best bang for the buck in bourbon is Evan Wiliiams, just the low level black label, around $13 in NY.

[rjh1967]

Yes, lower price range; I've just started drinking bourbon along with beer instead of drinking beer exclusively. My dad used to drink Old Grand-Dad 86; he told me once that he drank enough of that to float a battleship. He was in the Coast Guard. Anyway, he mentioned Hiram Walker Gold Medal at that time. Does anyone know if that is still produced? I've looked for it, but I can't find it. Just Ten High.

[sku]

Nope, Hiram Walker isn't around anymore.

[wineguy7]

A low priced bourbon I've been enjoying lately (mostly for mixing) is called "Kentucky Walker". I don't know if it is widely distributed, but I buy it here in San Francisco at Smart and Final. It costs $6.99 for a 750 ML and $14.99 for the 1.75 L. It's definitely on the lighter side, reminds me a little of Old Grand Dad.

[ncyankee101]

I second the Elijah Craig 12 yo - Bulleit is good - also try the Wild Turkey rare breed, especially if you can find it in a mini bottle - it's not cheap and the minis give you a chance to try it without investing much.

[imhungryletseat]

I wish they would have the mini's on Long Island to 'try before you buy'
The only mini that I have seen bourbon wise was the Evan Williams cherry for .99 and it was too sweet. The smallest size you see of anything not mainstream is 750ml.
I was really impressed with the amount of smaller bottles of bourbons when I was in Cincinnati and went to the party source in Kentucky, but then again, it was Kentucky!!
I do like both the Elijah Craig and Bulleit.
I just got a bottle of Old Weller 107. It was a little 'high octane' but it worked well with a few drops of water. Next step is to see how it is in a Manhattan.

[tomjb27]

I'm a big fan of Old Weller Antique. I think it's one of the best quality/value spirits out there and it's pretty much become my house bourbon. I think it works well in a Manhattan (it can stand up to 'big' vermouth, like Carpano, nicely), although lately I've been on a Rittenhouse Manhattan binge so it's been a while. Hope you enjoy it.

[rjh1967]

Four Roses Yellow Label is great; thanks for the suggestion.

[Blind Mind]

FINALLY!!! Went by Total Wine & Spirits last night and they had the 2010 Buffalo Trace Antiques in stock!! Picked up the Sazerac and the Stagg. Cracked the Sazerac and loved it, possibly more than last years version. This year seems to have a nice orange/citrus undertone along with a little caramel and a nice rye flavor. Looking forward to cracking the Stagg tonite!

[rlh]

Johnny Drum bonded at $25-$30 in the Boston area is an amazing value - terrific with a rye-like edge vs. smooth sweetness of so many others.

[StriperGuy]

Where did you find the Johnny Drum in Boston?

[rlh]

Marty's Newton and Martignetti on Soldiers Field Road - both well-stocked a couple of weeks ago - slightly cheaper at Martignetti ($25.99 I think).

[byrd]

the new Makers Mark 46 is drinking mighty fine...

[ucmewin]

I just bought a bottle of the Four Roses Mariage 2009. Have not had a chance to try it yet but if it is anything close to the 2008 then I will be a happy man. I'll report back with some tasting notes soon.

[jack42]

Maker's is my everyday brand, but I'm not a snob. I'll drink Jim Beam straight up and smile while I'm at it. Yeah, the Woodford Reserve is good. If you find it readily available, Evan Williams makes a premium product called Evan Williams Private Reserve or something like that. It is very good for the somewhat premium price. Step away from what you have heard about. Try the "1792" It's excellent. I also enjoy the Buffalo Trace. Bourbon drinking is fun, have fun with it. Use your breathing and sipping techniques to appreciate the nuances of everyday bourbons. And, by all means, don't add Coke or ice to anything you'd pay more than $10 a shot for. Drink it neat. Only add water if the proof is really high.

[EvergreenDan]

I would love to know the magic words to say to someone when they announce their love for "Jack and Coke". Someone recently said they had a great one, with the perfect ratio. I stood there silent and blinking. These are folks in the 40's and 50's. There is such an exciting world beyond sweet soft-drink-based cocktails.

[JMF]

Actually I'd say more like the 70's-80's. The 40's-50's had some great cocktails. It was around 1965-70 as vodka came into prominence that cocktails took the great nose dive into sweet and soda.

[EvergreenDan]

Typo. Meant that the folks are in theIR 40's and 50's -- i.e. starting drinking in the late 1970's - 1980's.

[tim irvine]

I agree on the Four Roses. It and Corner Creek have recently stood out IMHO as "different but still damned good." For a more traditional flavor profile I also like Virginia Gentleman 90.

[kyoung05]

Based upon some recommendations, I recently picked up a bottle of Corner Creek. I was told it was "very different" from a traditional bourbon, i.e. Elijah Craig. On the nose, it's very floral, not like other bourbons that smell more like caramel/maple syrup (although, upon letting the bourbon sit in the glass and "open up" a bit, I was able to detect some butteriness/caramel on the noce). On the palate, it's very light, but warm, and I can pick up some spice - rye maybe? I also get just a hint of saltiness/butteriness, but just a hint. Also, maybe a bit of graphite. Finish is pretty short. Overall, a very light and enjoyable bourbon. Definitely think it should only be drunk neat - water or ice would dilute the already light flavor too much. I'd definitely consider buying another bottle, and would make a great entry-level bourbon for non-whiskey drinkers.

[scubadoo97]

Elijah Craig is not like most bourbons in that it's a wheater if I'm not mistaken.

[kyoung05]

I'm fairly certain the mash bill for Elijah Craig consists of corn, barley and rye. Granted, it isn't a rye-heavy bourbon like, say, Bulleit, but I don't think I'd classify it as a "wheater," i.e. Maker's Mark, either.

[scubadoo97]

Thanks, I was thinking it was wheated due to it's sweetness and maple syrup nose. I stand corrected.

[BiggieD]

Under $30 . . . my favorite is Eagle Rare . . . smooth, Under $20 . . . Four Roses.

[JMF]

In the past few days I've really enjoyed the Russell's Reserve Small Batch 10 year (45% abv), Evan Williams Single Barrel put in cask 2000 (43.3% abv), and and the Elijah Craig 12 year (47% abv), the 18 year is very good as well, but I think I like the 12 better.

[wineguy7]

Pure Kentucky XO. It's a little spicy, very pleasant on the rocks.
Four Roses Small Batch. Smooth, nice to sip neat.

[JMF]

I really like the new Whistle Pig Rye.

[Blind Mind]

Thought I'd get this thread started up again as I've had the pleasure of finding some fantastic bourbons lately. I'll focus on my two most recent favorites - Woodford Reserve Master Collection - Seasoned Oak Finish and Jefferson's Reserve Presidential Select 17yr. The Woodford Seasoned Oak is a very dark colored bourbon with notes of toffee and cherry being most prominent on the tongue and a nice spicy finish. You really get the woody notes on this one too. Jefferson Presidential Select is smooth and sweet with little spice and a somewhat tamed alcohol burn. Loving them both right now. Got both at Total Wine & Spirits and paid $99 for the WR (which I thought was $10-$20 high compared to the last Master Collection bourbons I bought) and $78 for the Jefferson.

[Blind Mind]

I'm really enjoying Maker's 46 right now. It has surprised me.

[Blind Mind]

Well, I was back up in West Palm Beach, FL and managed to remember where the liquor store that I bought Wathens at was, intent on buying a bottle again as I really enjoyed it last time. Well, they didnt have it... However!! My buzzkill only lasted a moment when I noticed a bourbon Id never heard of before - I.W. Harper. 80 proof and about $36 I believe. This is a fantastic bourbon. Smooth like Basil Hayden @ 80 proof but with a nice spice. I killed 1/2 the bottle on the 1st night!!

[sku]

That bottle must have been on the shelf for a while. Diageo discontinued production of IW Harper for the American market three or four years ago. It is now only made for export to Asia.

[Blind Mind]

No way! Man, I gotta get up there and buy the last couple of bottles then!

[Blind Mind]

I went back up to WPB and hit up that liquor store a few weeks back. After searching thru their bourbon section (bottles arent lined up by brand, really. you gotta dig) I found 5 bottles of I.W. Harper 15yr covered in a nice layer of shelf dust and bought them all. Guy cleaned off the bottles for me and gave me an 8% discount (hey, better than nothing!). I gave a bottle to my cousin and have almost finished one myself. Is this a rare bourbon or should I just drink away without any inhibitions? I love the stuff.

[sku]

Well, it's rare in the sense that it isn't available anymore, but it is not one that is particularly sought after by collectors, so I would say if you enjoy it, drink it.

[StriperGuy]

Jim Beam Black one a Double Gold at the 2009 SF World Spirits Competition:

http://www.sfspiritscomp.com/pdfs/09R...

[StriperGuy]

Lately I have been VERY impressed by the products from Tuthilltown Spirits a NY based microdistillery. They are distilling mostly NY state grains and I have tried all of their whiskeys at this point. I really like their plain corn whiskey and their other bourbon-like spirits and whiskeys.

http://tuthilltown.com/QUALITY/produc...

[sockii]

Wild Turkey 101. It's my standby, my one true bourbon love. I get sad when I don't have any left in the house for mixing or on ice as I'm so used to the combination of a strong "bite" but good flavor from it. That said, for sipping I enjoy experimenting with different brands; I like Knob Creek and have some Wild Turkey Rare Breed on hand now which, wow, does that do the trick...!

[Blind Mind]

Tried Eagle Rare 17yr for the first time last night. It was absolutely wonderful. Had it basically neat with just 2 slivers of ice because it was a little warm out and I was completing a warm meal. I didnt expect it to be that much of a departure from the 10yr but it was. Hints of toffee, oak, and a little spice which was nice for a 90 proofer aged 17yrs. I gotta get a bottle of this. I think I saw it for about $60 online. Anyone know of a better price/vendor?

[KCFoodGuy]

I probably drink Bulleit, Knob Creek, and Jim Beam Black the most. I used to be a big Woodford Reserve fan, but for whatever reason don't like it anymore. Others I enjoy from time to time are Buffalo Trace, Basil Haydens, and Russels Reserve. I had some Kentucky Tavern at a neighbors last week. It was the house liquor at the bars I hung out at while in college where I first was introduced to bourbon. Not bad for a budget bourbon.

For a bachelor party last year, I bought $40 something bottle of Black Maple Hill....and thought it was terrible. It tasted like tree bark. A few other guys gave it a taste; but nobody would drink it. Maybe I just don't have refined tastes.

[Ditdah]

Ok, so rather than starting a new thread...

I am a newer drinker. Well, not newer drinker, but newer to exploring better spirits and caring more about nuances and flavors than getting a buzz off of the alcohol. (Ok, not THAT new. I'm not freshly out of college, and I haven't had any drink in a plastic solo cup for years. But still, more recently expanding my palette and appreciating the differences in taste.)

My family is Irish, so I grew up appreciating Irish whiskeys. I have loved Jameson's and Bushmills much earlier than I cared about cheapo beers or decent gins. (My other current quest is learning about the flavors of gins and discovering my perfect martini.) I've started drinking bourbons more, and I really like them. I haven't developed a taste for scotch, though. It seems too "harsh" somehow.

For someone who loves Irish Whiskey, is very interested in learning about bourbons, isn't a fan of scotch, and thinks Jack Daniels is too sweet... where would you suggest I begin learning about bourbons? I can't really afford to go out and buy multiple bottles of the high end stuff to do my own tasting, and there are so many listed in this thread...

Where should someone who really wants to learn, and experience the subtle differences and flavors begin? I've never really had a bourbon I didn't like, but I didn't try them near each other. I need some sort of direction, so I know where to begin?

[sku]

Based on your profile, I would say try some Woodford Reserve. It's a bit less sweet and fairly affordable. For contrast, a few other affordable brands to try are Maker's Mark (a bit on the sweeter side) and Buffalo Trace (spicy). These three are widely available and present a pretty wide range of flavors. If you find something you like, it will help you know what direction to go in.

[Blind Mind]

Here are 4 to get you going:

Woodford Reserve (about $40 for a 750ml with a nice, mild flavor, very floral)
Eagle Rare 10yr (this is a phenomenal bourbon and can be had for $26-$30 for a 750ml bottle. vanilla, caramel, with spicy undertones. a bold flavor for sure)
Corner Creek Reserve (great bargain at $24-28 for a 750ml. another mild bourbon with hints of vanilla, oak, floral)
Basil Hayden (about $35 for a 750ml. my favorite everyday bourbon. very smooth and mild in flavor with hints of pepper and honey.)

I also agree with the suggestion of Buffalo Trace Bourbon at about $25 for a 750ml bottle. Very similar to Maker's Mark but with more of a spicy kick rather than sweet. Also, if you want to spend a little more (about $45-50), look for Blanton's bourbon. This one is a fantastic bourbon.

All that I mentioned should be consumed neat or with 3 to no more than 6 ice cubes depending on the size of the cube to enjoy the most flavor from yer sippin sauce. ;)

[Ditdah]

Thank you both very much for your suggestions... based on your suggestions and the rest of thread, I think a bottle of Woodford Reserve is on my sights for this week, and then on to some of the others you've listed. I've had Makers Mark before, but not at a point where I was actually trying to learn the flavors and differences in the various bourbons. But, I do recall liking it.

For the record, my preferred way to drink bourbons is with just two or three small ice cubes. I like the very slight chill, and the flavors seem to come out a bit more. However, I'm not against sipping them neat, and tend to do so in the cooler months. If there are any that I sould NEVER put a few rocks in, please let me know, since I'm new to this.

I also adore having an Old Fashioned, but I never ask for a specifc bourbon. Maybe I need to start being more specific, but I've liked most I've had. Although I get really annoyed when the bartender says "an old fashioned what?" (Which has happened to me numerous times. How can a bartender not know one of THE original cokctails?)

[Blind Mind]

I too enjoy a few rocks in my bourbon glass because I live in a hot climate and like a cold drink. When it comes to some of the finer bourbons that are aged longer or a limited run, I tend to go neat.

[cannedmilkandfruitypebbles]

had a bottle of Maker's Mark Mint Julep. It was gone in 4 days.

[kchurchill5]

It took that long, :)

Makers is my choice for sure.

[RoxanaV]

I have several open bottles of Bourbon on the bar at any given time, but I seem to reach for a couple more than others: Elijah Craig 18 YO, Eagle Rare 10 YO, WT Russell's Reserve and Buffalo Trace. all are excellent, world-class spirits!

[SauceSupreme]

Here in Portland I'm really loving Buffalo Trace, especially the single barrel stuff that some local bartenders selected from the distillery (limited production, of course). It's my everyday bourbon whether on its own or in a cocktail.

It's amazing that I started this thread a year and a half ago and completely forgot about it. I'm absolutely thrilled to see that it's still alive and well and that people are talking about whiskey and bourbon in particular!

[Blind Mind]

Im also a Buffalo Trace fan for both flavor and value. Same with Eagle Rare 10yr and Corner Creek. Theyre all around the same price point. Buffalo Trace distillery produces their namesake along with Eagle Rare. If you have yet to make the trip to the Bourbon Trail, I strongly recommend a trip to the Buffalo Trace distillery.

[Blind Mind]

Im on a new one now... Black Maple Hill. Deelish

[dukeofsandwich]

Black Maple Hill is great stuff. Too bad only the small batch version is still widely available. If you stumble across a bottle of the 11, 14, or 16 year, buy it up.

Duke of Sandwich
www.lawhiskeysociety.com

[Terahertz]

For my money you can't beat the Black Maple Hill. For about 3 years it was not available anywhere (rumor has it that a Chinese company bought it all up), but it has now reappeared on the shelves. If you live in Los Angeles, Top Line Wine has it. Unfortunately, the aged stuff went from $90 a bottle to $140 :( Feeling poor, I picked up a bottle of the Green Maple Hill and it is quite good and much more affordable.

THz

[Blind Mind]

uh, youre kidding, right? There is no such bourbon called Green Maple Hill...

[sku]

I assume the poster means the Black Maple Hill with the green label. They vary the label colors.

[MOREKASHA]

Finally had soem of the Black Maple Hill for my birthday, can't remember which label, but it was very tasty....

[lchavezs]

Bookers!! Shake it with maple syrup, fresh lemon juice and ice--delicious!!

[aea6574]

that sounds tasty. I am guessing just a little maple syrup and lemon juice?

[MacshashRIP]

man, that sounds amazing. So simple yet obvious. I'm going to try that mix tonight. What would you call it? I'm gonna use Bulleit though....or maybe I'll try the Woodford Reserve, which seems to be prominent on this thread.

[MacshashRIP]

I tried Woodford/MapleSyrup/LemonJuice shaken....didn't quite come out like I had imagined. It ended up sort of like a Long Island ice tea. Not really my thing. I will stick to either up or rocks....seductive as it is.

[Blind Mind]

My favorite everyday bourbon is Basil Hayden, hands down. Smooth, smooth, sippin' and well priced.

Other favorites that are currently on my home bar shelf are:

Pappy Van Winkle 15yr (I love the spice here)
Pappy Van Winkle 23yr (special occasions only!!)
Corner Creek (This one is a HUGE sleeper. Highly recommended at $24-30/bottle)
Eagle Rare 10yr (A fantastic bourbon, better in the 17yr form but eons more expensive)
Blanton's (Love the spice and I have collected all of the corks!)
Booker's (aka, the "ass kicker" bourbon at 125.4 proof)
Ezra Brooks (Not one of my favorites but not bad. Kinda like Makers Mark)
Wathens (I found this sucker in a small shop in West Palm Beach. Bottled in '97, small batch. First glass seemed a little strong but it was more like breaking in a leather chair as the next glasses were more comfy. Currently one of my favorites though its a tough find)
Rock Hill Farms (Got hooked on this at Capital Grill in Boston where a NY visitor has them stock it just for him and bourbon lovers like me reap the benefit of his tastes)

I also like Woodford Reserve as an alternative to Basil Hayden when at a bar that doesnt stock BH. Very similar in taste though I find WR to have a bit more of a floral bouquet and a little more bite at 90 proof rather than the 80 for BH. I also recently tried and really liked both Michter's (bourbon and rye) and Black Maple Farms though Ive yet to buy a bottle for my bar. The bar only holds bourbon, by the way, except for the essentials needed for the occasional Manhattan. :)

I could probably go on and on about the other bottles Ive tried and my collection of empties but I will reel it in for now haha.

[chazzerking]

I agree with all your comments and recs. I would add a few; Tuthilltown's Hudson bourbon and Baby bourbon. They aren't cheap, around $40 for a 375 ml bottle, but smooth and delicious. I've also recently aquired bottles of Rowan's Creek and Noah's Mill. Both are enjoyable and interesting, but I've only tried each once so I'm still making a judgment. I have yet to find anything to compare with the Pappy 23 though. I'm still looking

[Blind Mind]

Yes, I also liked Rowan's Creek and Noah's Mill when I tried them in Louisville and Cincinnati respectfully. I just havent seen them in my area. The Pappy 23 is my all time favorite, but again, its for special occasions only. Ive had the bottle for over a year now and its more than half full. :)

[imhungryletseat]

I just picked up a 1.75 of Bulleit ($39.99) and a 750 of Corner Creek ($23.99), both on sale. I love the Bulleit (I remember reading it has a different flavor profile due to more Rye) and like the Corner Creek.

Overall, of the premium Bourbons I tried, Woodford Reserve is still my favorite, with Makers Mark and the Bulleit not too far behind.

After tasting a range of premium bourbons, a friend had Jim Beam and I decided to have a nip, for old times sake. Boy, was that a shock. I remember reading somewhere that someone felt JB had a soapy taste and those were by exact thoughts...yeech!

[Nakajima]

Maker's Mark, Woodford Reserve, Knob Creek.

Maker's makes the best bourbon manhattan.

New Discovery - The Rye manhattan! Try making your manhattan with Wild Turkey 101 Rye!

Great thread.

[MC Slim JB]

Of course, rye was the spirit used in the original Manhattan. Bourbon was more of a regional favorite until after Prohibition, which had put many of America's great rye distillieries out of business permanently. Nearly every whiskey cocktail that most bartenders now make with bourbon was originally based on rye. I like bourbon a lot, but for cocktails I'm much likelier to reach for rye these days. Got my girl going that way, too.

[jgg13]

"Got my girl going that way, too."

Other way around for me :) Well, sort of. I kept yammering about rye making a comeback, but she was the one that really started the two of us down the path of rye-dom.

We haven't yet splurged on getting a bottle of good sipping rye, sticking with the sub-$30ish range for cocktail use, but it was a real eye opener how it made a positive difference in drinks.

[imhungryletseat]

I was in Northern KY a couple of weeks ago and went to the Party Source to pick up some bourbon and different beers. By the way, there is nothing remotely like the Party Source on LI, I could live there! I ended up picking up Woodford Reserve and Knob Creek and I picked up Eagle Rare at a store by my house . After taste testing the three numerous times, I enjoy the Woodford Reserve for sipping the most, followed by the Knob Creek. As for the Eagle Rare, I found it to be on the harsh side for sipping. Because of that, I could not pick up other flavors in it. That said, it does make a good Bourbon with a ginger ale/club soda mix.
My current vote for sipping Bourbon is the Woodford Reserve!

[samhopkins]

right now i'm digging the sam houston's kentucky bourbon. killer stuff, made by the same folks who make jefferson's.

[The Ranger]

Booker's is my default but Knob Creek and Jefferson provide a nice set of alternatives, too.

[PeterB]

Maker's Mark is a good default bourbon. Ancient Ancient Age (AAA) is the bang for the buck champ (I always have some around). Blanton's is the best >$25 bourbon I've tried.

[dwh]

MM tastes good even before they distill it!
http://www.vimeo.com/1189702

[chazzerking]

This summer; St. James Hors d'age Rhum Agricole. I'm surprised that more Bourbon drinkers don't take up high quality aged rums for sippin', especially in the summer.

[crewsweeper]

I've enjoyed St James as an alternative to a sipping whiskey for over 10 years.
It's a great alt to cognac or armangnac too.

Has anyone tasted Proctor's(?) Bourbon? Local liquor store clerk pointed it out to me last week but I wasn't in the market for bourbon then.

[MOREKASHA]

I love rum from Demerara, Guyana. Port Morant 12 year old It's a great alternative.Checkout www.classicrum.com I go back 'n forth between this and a good bourbon, except in the autumn when it's Calvados time.

[NYChristopher]

Another shout out for St. James. While I've not had the Hors d'age, I have had the Amber and thought it a great product and an even better value. I gave up drinking Mount Gay I liked it so much.

More here
http://scottesrum.com/2007/04/08/st-j...

[FlaHopper]

I always have a bottle of Early Times handy. However, the latest rotation was 101 proof Wild Turkey Rye. Once you adjust to it a bit, it's a pretty good rye.

[cornFusion]

As far as ryes go, i agree - wild turkey rye is awesome

[cherie]

Bakers.

[rednyellow]

My fav sippin Bourbon is Wild Turkey 101. My dad was a bourbon drinker and I've developed a taste for it as I get older. A few years ago, I ended up with many high end bottles to sample from.... For about 5 or 8 years, every time I visited my dad, I'd take him a fancy bottle of bourbon. We'd each have a shot or two and I assumed he'd finish the bottle over the next few weeks. He didn't. He was insanely thrifty and he put them away and drank his discount bourbon. When he died, I found about 30 different high end bourbons with a couple of shots missing. He never could bring himself to drink the good stuff by himself. It took me and my friends a while, but we had some great drinks and toasts to Dad. BTW.... drink the good stuff now while you can.

[vino5150]

EAGLE RARE

[theginguy]

Yep, it's Buffalo Trace and Eagle Rare for me.

Buffalo Trace distillery is my bourbon distillery of choice.

[NYChristopher]

As someone who doesn't like the "new" eagle rare, I'd be curious to hear what your thoughts are in comparing the "old" Eagle Rare (8 year, 101 proof) and Buffalo Trace. I know Buffalo Trace came out before the "old" Eagle Rare was done away with, but I'm wondering if there's any similarity whatsoever?

[wonderwoman]

i was introduced to eagle rare a couple of years ago; now it's my go to. this may be sacrilege...

but when i open a bottle, i drop in a whole vanilla bean. i'm not a big drinker, so it can be in there a while, and what i find is the longer it is, the smoother the drink

[epicureous eggplant]

Bulleit is what I've been craving most recently, served on ice, but there is only one bar is SD that has served it to me. Otherwise, I'll have Knob.

This board as over 100 post, thanks to everyone for sharing. Although does anyone want to just list any three to be on the look out when I'm out at a bar?

Thank You Kindly!

[chazzerking]

Most of the really old and fine bourbons will be pretty pricey in most bars. On the other hand, It will give you the chance to taste and see if it's worth the $100+ per bottle before you spend that. My choice for the best would have to be the Pappy Van W 21. at a little lower level, I do like Blanton's, Rock Hill Farms and Black Maple Hill a lot.

[ricepad]

As long as you're buyin', I'll drink with you ANYTIME! I love Pappy and Rock Hill...

[frankiii]

I picked up a bottle of Jefferson's and one of Hancock's last week. That makes a total of 8 bottles tasted in the past month and a half, or so. As mentioned before, I prefer Knob Creek, in terms of widely available bourbon. Of the new ones I have tried I like Russell's, Elmer T Lee and my experience with Jefferson's was also nice (has a faint flavor of tea and not as sweet). I thought Rock Hill was a bit too scotch-like, in that it was not too sweet and thus the high proof tended to burn through. The van winkles were all nice and great deals for the money and Eagle Rare was pleasant but probably not worth the premium price point. I might have regretted it the next day but having bourbon tasting parties and getting through these 8 bottles has been a real pleasure, sip on.

[lennox53]

The Jefferson tastes like tree bark to me. It's the one bottle I truly regret ever buying.

[frankiii]

I can see that, I guess it stood out because it was different from a series of bottles that, while good, were largely the same.

[tim irvine]

Knob is always yummy. Bookers is, too. I love all the Van Winkles but my wife likes Knob. This thread started pretty high on Wathen's./ It is good but I haven't seen it around for a year (in Austin). I noticed another thread on bitters. If you are inclined to mixed drinks, such as Old Fashioneds, try one with Angostura and another with Peychaud's...two totally different drinks, even with just a shake. Life doesn't get much better than Old Fashioned made with Knob Creek and a dash of Angostura bitters (except for Pappy Van Winkle and a small splash). Someone mentioned Old Overholt...I like it a lot, too.

[cscott4313]

Tim, read your post regarding the Old Fashioned and couldn't resist. My dad's been piouring and drinking them my whole life, but I've never had a better Old Fashioned Sweet than at "Off the Record" in the Hay Adams Hotel, Washington D.C. Make sure John pours it for you. Go on a Friday or Saturday night. Low lit, rich red wallpaper and dark wood; wall sconces of gold and crystal--just unbelieveable with that drink in hand. Be warned, the Hay Adams is under construction until October, 2010. But by all means, if you can make it afterwards you will not regret it. And for a next stop (if you're so inclined), The Round Robin at the Willard for Mint Juleps.

[Uncle Bob]

Tonight was WT 101...

[frankiii]

Tried some of the bourbons in the picture below last night with friends. To my taste, which leans toward Knob Creek, the Elmer T. Lee was the stand out.

[mainahs]

My sister bought me Van Winkle for Xmas---really delicious but, of course, expensive. I like Makers Mark for Manhattans, it seems quite smooth for a moderately priced bourbon. Bookers is good as well.

[Uncle Bob]

Sippin on some George T. Stagg......slowly!

[Docsknotinn]

Blantons.

[chazzerking]

I know this is kinda going off topic but there's plenty of other talk in this thread about Rye, and I just got a bottle of Hirsh 21 y/o for Christmas, and I like it a lot. Not quite as caramel-ly as Van Winkle 21, but very smooth and plenty of vanilla and spice in the nose. It drinks very well especially at this time of year.I also picked up a bottle of Black Maple Hill, but haven't opened it yet. Looking forward to trying that.

[tonabang]

I have heard several people say they like the 16 year Hirsch better than the older ones. What are your thoughts? I've tried the 16 year and it is certainly one of my favorites but I haven't had the fortune of trying any of the other bottlings. I've read a few good reviews of Black Maple Hill. Let me know if you can recommend it.

[chazzerking]

Can't speak to the 16, only the 21, which is very very nice, as I said above. I tried the regular Hirsch(Ithink it's 7 y/o, but not sure about that) and it is pretty good, but to my taste, not as good as Rittenhouse, for a base rye. I haven't opened the Black Maple Hill yet , but will report back as soon as I do.

[tonabang]

I obviously didn't read your post very closely as I thought you were referring to an older Hirsch bourbon. I didn't realize they made a 21 year old Rye. Does it say where it was distilled on the bottle? Maybe I'll be lucky enough to have Santa drop a bottle of Hirsch or Black Maple Hill this year.

[Captain]

Hirsch Bourbon that is worth spending some money on, IMO, is the stuff distilled at the Michter Distillery that was in Schaefferstown, PA and closed in 1988. To see some info, look at: http://www.hirschbourbon.com/html/his...

Mtcher's made today is not, from what I recall, from the same distillery. It also is simply not as good.

[uisgebeatha9]

I really like Bulleit bourbon. It's high rye content offers a nice, dry finish. It does well neat or on the rocks.

[fussycouple]

I'll have to chime in the with Pappy Van Winkle as my current favorite bourbon.

I also have Eagle Rare and Wild Turkey in my collection of American whiskies.

It's rare that someone will ask for bourbon and not like at least one of these three a lot, though I am not inclined to share my Pappy Van Winkle with people whose bo-nah-fi-des have not been established.

[Captain]

Without bonafides established, certain bottles should never be exposed for even viewing. Unless I know you really know how to appreciate a good dram, you do not get to even look at my bottles of: Hirsch; Pappy Van Winkle; Van Winkle Family Reserve Rye; Ron Zacapa Centario; Green Spot; etc., etc. If you ask for a ______ and coke, I reach for things I would never drink myself. I applaud your discretion to not let the good stuff enter into unapppreciative or undeserving mouths.

[sku]

While I understand your hesitation, I take the opposite tack. I love exposing people to new tastes and widening the horizons of what they think is Bourbon. The answer to, do you have Bourbon for me is...have you ever had Eagle Rare or Buffalo Trace, have you sipped a good Rye. More often then not, they never imagined Bourbon could taste that way and want to learn more...then maybe, after a few visits, they get at my stash of Pappy Van, Stagg or Elijah 18.

Lots of people seem to drink Bourbon and Coke because the only Bourbon they've ever tasted is crap.

[japhyryder]

my dad tells a funny story about his father in law, my grandfather, and scotch. both of them really like their scotch. and in the early 70's lived near each other. anyhow, my dad was having a party and he put out the "good scotch" (no one remember the exact bottle) and a bottle of dewar's at the bar. my grand father, a slight and gentlemanly man his whole life, rush across the room and grabbed the good bottle from a guest who was about to pour it into his coke. with all the indignance he could muster said, "you can put THAT in your coke, not THIS." gesturing to the dewar's.

it's the only story i know of him correcting someone publically, and i've given him more cause than the guest.

the previous posts reminded me of the story.

[Captain]

It seems to me your grandfather was a wise man. He saved the good booze from being wasted and destroyed.

It seems to me someone who drinks coke as a mixed drink is a person who wants the effect of drinking wihtout the flavor of the spirit. I've introduced plenty of people to spirits I enjoy, but I have my limits.

[chazzerking]

Especially anyone who would even think of putting Scotch, good or otherwise, in Coke. I shudder to think...

[BarmyFotheringayPhipps]

Yes, what a waste of a perfectly good Coke. Bleah.

[phantomdoc]

Johnnie Walker makes a scotch and coke in cans. I saw it on their website.

[tonabang]

I recently started drinking George T Stagg and was impressed. Its uncut and the recent release was 144.8 proof.

[vickib]

I tend to go with a couple which are very different from each other: Wild Turkey and Maker's.
Reading this thread, I bought a bottle of Bulleit.
Very soft, and easy to sip. The Turkey, I drink on the rocks, Bulleit, neat.

[Spiritsreview]

Elmer T.Lee is a great Single Barrel from Buffalo Trace and is about 1/2 the cost of Rock Hill or Blantons. Current batches are around 14 years old.
Just about anything from Buffalo Trace is excellent but the Elmer has the best quality to price ratio in my opinion.
I also enjoy Ralph Erenzo's Hudson Baby Bourbon and hope to get my hands on some rye of his rye one of these days - heard from people I trust (or share the same taste with) that it was great too.

[joypirate]

The Van Winkle 12 has made me change my rule about buying a different kind of bourbon every time I refill. There are also random, inexplicable sales here in the state-run stores in Pennsylvania. It's got a surprising bit of 'floral' to it, and since cowboys sometimes have flowers on their shirts, that's ok with me.

[gettingbigger]

Definitely Pappy Van Winkle Family Reserve.

[MacArthur Mike]

was just given a bottle of Jefferson's Reserve for the holidays...hope it is good.

[frankiii]

I have a bottle of Rowan's Creek, purchased about two weeks ago. It has a lot of character, seems almost raw in the sense that does not seem too cask mellowed. I have enjoyed it but it is pretty bracing and spicy.

[DavidT]

The Dining & Wine Section of NY Times today (11/28/07) has an article on a tasting of an assortment of premium bourbons. You can find it online at www.nytimes.com

[Cookiefiend]

Thanks DavidT

Interesting article!

[DavidT]

To summarize the article's rankings:

Pappy Van Winkle Family Reserve (20 years old, 90.4 proof) at $90 got the highest ranking. The next 3 were:

Vintage 17 Years Old, 94 Proof @ $45
Knob Creek, 9 Years Old, 100 Proof @ $35
W.L. Weller Centennial, 10 Years Old, 100 Proof @$35

Jim Beam Black, 8 Years Old, 86 Proof @ $20 was rated the Best Value.

[StriperGuy]

I'm a huge Jim Beam Black fan. Recently saw it for sale in Boston for $19.99 for 1.75L which is an insane deal.

[kitsune]

PLEASE let me know where in Boston you were able to come by it so cheaply! I've been after a bottle for some time and have been waiting to come across a good deal!

[StriperGuy]

I saw it at the liquor store at fresh pond next to Whole Foods but that was about a month ago. Lately they have had it for $29.99 for 1.75L which is still a "wicked bargain."

Give em a call to see if they still have it at a decent price:

Cambridge Wine & Spirits
www.mallliquors.com
202 Alewife Brook Pkwy, Cambridge - [phone]

[RalphErenzo]

You're all invited to try Hudson Baby Bourbon and Hudson Manhattan Rye. Made in the Hudson Valley of NY. Short aged, very tasty. A new direction in the old hand made tradition.

[JMF]

I've tasted a few of Ralph's spirits and have found them all to be excellent. Real, well crafted, small batch, micro-distilled, artisanal spirits. Welcome to Chowhound Ralph!

[rollawaydadew]

It is great stuff, however difficult to track down and somewhat pricey. I understand that the limited production contributes to the cost.

[chazzerking]

I'm hooked.How does one obtain your product? By mail, or from what distributors?

[bourbongal]

Old Rip Van Winkle, Basil Hayden, and Booker Noe are all on my list of favorites. But I grew up near the Maker's Mark distillery so Maker's Mark is the taste of home for me. I still prefer it to most everything else.

[Jimmy Buffet]

It IS good.

[bourbongal]

Updating my own post: I just returned from a Christmas trip to Louisville, KY where I spent the night at the venerable Brown Hotel. The lobby bar has a great selection of premium bourbon, including most of those mentioned above. The bartender recommended the 18-year old single barrel Elijah Craig and it was outstanding -- I think maybe the best I've had

[Jimmy Buffet]

Also enjoying a bottle of Old Forrester. Recommended by folks on this board.

[SauceSupreme]

A recent trip to Clyde Common in Portland introduced me to a great bottle - Elmer T Lee

[Jimmy Buffet]

Jim Beam Black. Bought a bottle as a result of several online pals recommending it highly. I have a bottle of Jim Beam white in the cabinet now. Looking forward to doing a comparison to see what kind of difference $3.00 a bottle makes....

[cornFusion]

If you can find it, Jim Beam Yellow is also an outstanding sipper.

[lennox53]

You mean the rye?

[heWho]

Thanks to the hounds on the Spirits board I'm drinking Diabolique: http://www.infusionique.com/ver06/dia...

It's bourbon infused with figs, cinnamon and vanilla bean. It's an excellent sipping whiskey and makes a really great manhattan

[SauceSupreme]

I was able to try Elmer T Lee at dinner tonight here in Portland, and I have to say it's quite good. So I'll tack that onto the list. That's only because I told the barkeep that I like Wathens and they didn't have it, so they poured that instead. My dining companion noted that it wasn't as caramel-y as most bourbons, which is true, hence it exhibited a less viscous mouth-feel which I guess I find refreshing (I had never noticed that, to be honest, until she pointed it out).

[cornFusion]

My other half and I love manhattans in winter. We normally have a half-gallon of Maker's Mark for the mixing and a bottle of the old Hirsch 20 year old for sippin (and special celebrations like the 4th of July). Other high end whiskeys I love are:
- Wild Tuurkey (hic) "Rare Breed" (sipping)
- A. H. Hirsch 16 Year Old (sipping)
- WIld Turkey 101 (mixing)
- Booker's cask-strength (from Jom Beam - for good sipping after diluting with water or a good ginger ale)
- Jim Beam's Rye Whiskey (sippin - and this has a wonderful bready aroma/taste)
- Knob Creek (another Jim Beam product that's great for mixing and sipping)

[rollawaydadew]

Maker's or Knob Creek. Really like Sazerac, though I have not been able to find the 18 yr. Would like to try Old Potrero, but haven't been able to find it either.

[zin1953]

Where do you live?

[rollawaydadew]

Long Island, NY

[sku]

You should try ordering on-line from Park Avenue Liquors in NYC.

http://www.parkaveliquor.com/parkave/...

[zin1953]

Both are available in New York City (Manhattan); I can't speak for sources actually on LI.

You can always contact Anchor directly -- http://www.anchorbrewing.com/about_us/oldpotrero_18th.htm -- simply send them an email ([e-mail]), and they will tell you who in New York State distributes Old Potrero. Then, a call to that company will let you know who in your area has the whiskey. If youdon't want to email, you can call/write them at:

Anchor Brewing Company
1705 Mariposa Street
San Francisco, CA 94107
T 415.863.8350
F 415.552.7094

The same is true for Sazerac Rye -- http://www.sazerac.com/products.html -- you can email them at [e-mail] or simply call/write to:

Sazerac Company, Inc.
803 Jefferson Highway
P.O. BOX 52821
New Orleans, LA 70121
504.831.9450

[Captain]

Both Sazerac and Potrero were at WhiskyFest on Tuesday night, and I've never seen a spirit offered there that was not for sale somewhere in New York. I am pretty sure both are available at Park Ave. Liquor, see: http://www.parkaveliquor.com/default.asp?, and also probably Astor Place, see: www.astoruncorked.com.

Among the bourbons and ryes I had the other night, I liked the Willet Rye and the Van Winkle Bourbon, of which I think I had the 21 year-old Pappy. No surprise on the later, I always like Van Winkle's products.

[cosmogrrl]

I'm really not fond of Old Potrero, it has that faint hint of nail polish remover that I hate.

[ted]

I had my booze mule (aka my wife) pick up a 1.75 of Buffalo Trace in TN over the weekend. I really like it, and that's enhanced by its unavailability in GA.

Other than that, I'm a big fan of Rittenhouse Bonded Rye (note rye, not bourbon), which is a relatively-recent introduction here. And Evan Williams Single Barrel is a fabulous value. Lately, I've also tried Ancient Ancient Age, which was good for its price point, but you'd be silly to compare it to any of the $40+/bottles folks have mentioned. When you get into that stratospheric level, I'd reach for Booker's or George T Stagg first.

Much as I want to, I've resisted the urge to drop $100 on a bottle of Hirsh, Rock Hill, Van Winkle Reserve et al. And honestly, a bottle of Cuervo La Familia is in line ahead of any of those.

[MOREKASHA]

Noahs' Mill. Very tasty, neat.

[charlesbois]

Same as I've always drunk, 10 year old George Dickel.

I took part in an impromptu bourbon tasting at the Mimosa Grill in Charlotte, North Carolina. Paired with a meal of rabbit brochette, the Dickel left the Makers Mark, Bookers, Baker's and Elijah Craig in the dust.