The Bourbon Road

Welcome back to the Bourbon Road, roadies! Episode 512 brings a lively gathering around the tasting mat as hosts Jim Shannon and Todd are joined by three special guests — Stanton Holder of Statiki Cigars Company, Charles Mellon of St. Petersburg, Florida, and Lenny LaRussa of Americas, Georgia. Stanton is a returning guest and longtime Bourbon Road supporter, while Charles and Lenny are brand-new roadies experiencing bourbon country for the first time. Fresh off a full day touring downtown Louisville — including a highly praised stop at the Evan Williams Experience — the group settles in for a deep dive into one of Kentucky's most storied and scientifically fascinating distilleries. On the Tasting Mat: - Four Roses Single Barrel OBSV (100 Proof): The original Four Roses single barrel expression, featuring the high-rye mash bill (60% corn, 35% rye, 5% malted barley) and the V yeast strain, known for its delicate fruit character. Aged seven to nine years and bottled at 100 proof, this pour opens with an inviting nose of pear, apricot, vanilla, and a touch of peach cobbler, with gentle floral notes that are a hallmark of the Four Roses house style. The palate delivers creamy vanilla, stone fruit, and a light cherry note on the finish. A benchmark for approachable yet complex single barrel bourbon at a friendly price point. *(00:04:52)* - Four Roses Single Barrel OESK (100 Proof): The first of the red-label releases on tonight's mat, the OESK pairs the low-rye mash bill (75% corn, 20% rye, 5% malted barley) with the K yeast strain, which targets a full-bodied, rich baking spice profile. Aged seven to nine years at 100 proof, this expression greets the nose with cinnamon rolls, brown sugar, and a warm, doughy sweetness. The palate follows through with cinnamon toast, brown sugar, and a custardy, pecan pinwheel quality. A dessert-forward pour with a slightly spicier tingle than the proof alone might suggest, making it an ideal after-dinner sipper. *(00:18:48)* - Four Roses Single Barrel OBSF (100 Proof): Returning to the high-rye mash bill (60% corn, 35% rye, 5% malted barley), this release pairs it with the F yeast strain, associated with herbal, minty, and full-bodied fruit-spice characteristics. Aged seven to nine years at 100 proof, the OBSF opens with a notably herbal and minty nose — a quality the panel links directly to the elevated rye content working in concert with the yeast. The palate is rear-weighted, settling into baking spice and a gentle warmth at the back of the mouth, with subtle green apple and a lingering finish. A natural candidate for a mint julep build. *(00:39:44)* - Four Roses Single Barrel OESF (100 Proof): The final pour of the evening combines the low-rye mash bill (75% corn, 20% rye, 5% malted barley) with the F yeast strain for a fascinating contrast to the OBSF. Aged seven to nine years at 100 proof, this expression leans heavily into nostalgia on the nose — bubblegum, cornstarch, and a Necco-candy sweetness. The palate is front-weighted and almost effervescent, with cherry cola and a Dr. Pepper-like pop up front that transitions into ripe berries and a smooth, extended finish. The contrast with the high-rye OBSF clearly illustrates just how dramatically the mash bill shapes the final character. *(00:51:58)* Tonight's episode is a masterclass in what makes Four Roses unique in the American bourbon landscape — a single distillery producing ten distinct recipes through two mash bills and five proprietary yeast strains. With a panel of newcomers asking sharp, science-forward questions and a passionate cigar and bourbon veteran guiding the conversation, the episode is as educational as it is entertaining. Whether you're a longtime Four Roses fan hunting the elusive OESQ or a new roadie just learning to tell your mash bills apart, there is something on this mat for everyone. Cheers, and we'll see you down the Bourbon Road!

Todd welcomes Drew Hannush back as co-host for a deep dive into one of bourbon's most storied and resilient revived brands — Chicken Cock Whiskey. Joining them is Will Woodington, National Brand Ambassador and Director of Brand Engagement for Chicken Cock, who walks listeners through the brand's remarkable history stretching back to 1856 in Paris, Kentucky, its prohibition-era smuggling days, and the meticulous care taken to resurrect it in the 21st century under Grain and Barrel Spirits. Drew, who conducted historical research on the brand, adds rare archival insights about founder James A. Miller, the brand's Bourbon County roots, and the evolving paper trail that keeps surprising even the most seasoned researchers. On the Tasting Mat: - Chicken Cock Kentucky Straight Bourbon: The flagship expression and top-seller, bottled at 90 proof with a high-rye mash bill of 70% corn, 21% rye, and 9% malted barley. Produced in collaboration with Bardstown Bourbon Company using hand-selected American white oak logs with a medium-plus toast and level-three char. Tasting notes include baking spice, clove, orange zest, apricot, butterscotch, apple, cinnamon, and a gentle warming finish. *(00:02:07)* - Chicken Cock Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey: A 90-proof rye built on a 95% rye, 5% malted barley mash bill, aged a minimum of two years with barrels ranging two to four years in the blend. Approachable and well-balanced, offering gentle white pepper spice, lemongrass, citrus, spearmint, cinnamon, and a toasted wood note with a hint of bubblegum sweetness on the nose. *(00:18:32)* - Chicken Cock Weeded Bourbon: A newer core expression bottled at 94 proof, featuring a mash bill of 68% corn, 20% wheat, and 12% malted barley. Inspired in part by historical evidence that James A. Miller incorporated wheat into early Chicken Cock production. Tasting notes include honey bread, raspberry cream, soft sweetness, and a rich, approachable mouthfeel that distinguishes it clearly from the high-rye flagship. *(00:18:44)* - Chicken Cock Double Oak Kentucky Whiskey: A 10-year-old expression distilled in 2014 with an 80.5% corn, 11% rye, 8.5% malted barley mash bill. Due to an industry-wide oak shortage, the distillate was aged seven years in used bourbon barrels before Chicken Cock transferred it to brand-new level-four char barrels at the top of the Bardstown rickhouse for an additional three years. Bottled at an undisclosed proof, it delivers caramel, dark fruit, toffee, coconut, and a long, rich finish without the aggressive oak often found in traditional double-oak expressions. *(00:46:20)* - Chicken Cock Miller's Reserve: A limited 2025 release bottled at 115 proof, blending four whiskeys from four states that border the Ohio River — a 10-year Chicken Cock double oak from Kentucky, an 8-year high-rye bourbon from Indiana, a 10-year weeded bourbon from Ohio, and an 8-year weeded bourbon from West Virginia. Created to honor the 1860 loss of 475 barrels of Chicken Cock whiskey when the steamship A.O. Tyler sank in the Ohio River. Tasting notes include dark fruit, fig, pipe tobacco, butterscotch, and a decadent, long-lasting finish. *(00:38:40)* Whether you're a longtime Chicken Cock devotee or encountering the brand for the first time, this episode offers a rare blend of serious whiskey tasting and genuine historical detective work. Will, Todd, and Drew leave no stone unturned — from original medicinal pint bottles and saloon match dispensers to cornerstone time capsules and mysterious grave markers — making a compelling case that Chicken Cock is far more than a memorable name. It is a living piece of American whiskey history.

Welcome back, Roadies! Todd and Jim are settling into the newly redesigned Corner Rickhouse at the Frankfort Bourbon Society, fresh paint and all, for another wide-ranging tasting session. Todd teases an upcoming Monday Meetup celebrating a milestone birthday, and Jim shares highlights from a family trip to Savannah before the two dive into four distinctly different finished and blended whiskeys that span Colorado craft, orchard-inspired blends, Scotch-barrel finishing, and rare American oak. On the Tasting Mat: - Lock & Co. Big Blaze Bourbon: A Denver-based, 95-proof, five-year-old bourbon uniquely finished with charred Aspen wood discs sourced directly from trees destroyed in Colorado's 2020 East Troublesome Fire. The nose opens with smoked maple caramel and a bright, citrus freshness. The palate is clean and straightforward — sweet maple and caramel lead, the smokiness softens mid-palate, and a gentle white pepper spice emerges on the finish. Ten percent of proceeds support Grand County firefighters and first responders. Available in Colorado and online to 48 states for around $56.99. *(00:25:37)* - Chicken Cock Oh Glory Limited Edition Hunter-Proof American Whiskey Blend: A one-of-a-kind collaboration between Chicken Cock and Laird & Company, blending 70% of Chicken Cock's 95/5 Kentucky straight rye (distilled at Bardstown) with 30% Laird's bottled-in-bond apple brandy, bottled at 100 proof. The nose is an inviting walk through an apple orchard in spring — fresh red apples with a subtle rye mintiness underneath. The palate is buttery and remarkably smooth, with a cool sweet wave up front, almost no mid-palate bite, and a warming, peppery finish that builds with each sip. Twelve thousand bottles released at an MSRP of $65. *(00:43:51)* - Bardstown Bourbon Company Lox of Jura Barrel Finish: A bespoke blend of 49% 11-year Indiana bourbon (75/21/4), 30% 10-year Indiana rye (95/5), and 21% 12-year Kentucky bourbon (75/13/12), rested an additional 32 months in single malt Scotch whiskey barrels sourced from the Isle of Jura — 84% ex-bourbon and 16% ex-sherry Scotch casks — and bottled at 104 proof. The nose layers honeydew melon, orchard fruit, and gentle malt in a way that is decidedly un-peated and approachable. The palate achieves a remarkable balance among all three components — bourbon sweetness, rye spice, and fruity Scotch character — with the lines between them blurring beautifully. The finish is long and warming, growing more Scotch-forward with time. MSRP $140. *(00:46:55)* - Bardstown Bourbon Company Discovery 2026: A blend of 55% 10-year Indiana bourbon (75/21/4), 25% 11-year Kentucky bourbon (74/18/8), and 20% 7-year Kentucky bourbon (74/16/10), finished in custom Gariana oak barrels hand-toasted for three hours by Oregon Barrel Works and chosen for maximum summer extraction, bottled at 112.8 proof. The nose presents butterscotch, burnt sugar, and a hint of molasses-like richness. The palate leans sweet and thick with cola-like depth, cooked cherry, and a distinct nuttiness; the finish carries a pleasant citrus-cherry brightness with lingering spice. MSRP $140. *(01:01:13)* As a bonus pour, the guys also opened the Lost Lantern United States of Bourbon 1776 Edition , a one-time-only cask-strength blend of bourbons from distilleries in each of the 13 original colonies — from Painted Stave (DE) and Liberty Pole (PA) to King's County (NY) and Reservoir (VA) — hand-numbered to 1,776 bottles at 121.4 proof and MSRP $199.99. It rounds out an episode packed with creative finishing techniques, cross-category blending, and the kind of spirited conversation that makes the Bourbon Road worth every mile. Head to thebourbonroad.com to sign up for the Roadie Bar, watch for giveaways featuring full 750ml bottles of the Discovery and Lox of Jura, and we'll see you down the road!

Todd Ritter flies solo as host this week on The Bourbon Road, welcoming Chip Tate — Master Distiller of Innovation for Ampersand Spirits (a Foley Family Spirits project) — for a deep dive into one of the most inventive new whiskey series to hit shelves. Chip brings his decades of distilling philosophy, his background founding Balcones Distillery in Texas, and his stint crafting copper pot stills, all to bear on a four-expression lineup that challenges every assumption about what American whiskey can be. From a nine-year-old neutral grain spirit aged in ex-cognac barrels to a six-way wine barrel finish on a high-malt bourbon, every pour here tells a story of deliberate curiosity. On the Tasting Mat: - Ampersand Vinea: A 92-proof blend of 75% rye whiskey and 25% neutral grain spirit that spent over nine years in ex-cognac barrels — a happy accident born when barrels bought in France in 2015 for another project were kept wet and simply never emptied. The result is thin in body but surprisingly aromatic, with grapevine, cognac-cask fruit esters, and a firm French-oak tannin structure that recalls aged Scottish grain whiskey. Non-chill filtered. *(00:01:28)* - Ampersand Malice: Also at 92 proof and non-chill filtered, Malice blends 51% rye whiskey with 49% Calvados (French apple brandy) into a cross-category spirit that Chip frames as a chef sourcing ingredients from two different farms. The nose erupts with apple-cinnamon potpourri; the palate delivers stewed apple, warming rye spice, and a richness that proves Calvados can stand toe-to-toe with a robust rye. MSRP $59.99. *(00:13:07)* - Ampersand Opumus (Batch 1 — 116.6 proof): The crown jewel of the lineup, Opumus starts with 15-year-old Kentucky straight bourbon (sourced from Wild Turkey) that Chip found overly tannic on its own, then finishes it in Tokaji wine barrels for approximately one year per batch. At cask strength near 58.3% ABV, this is a dramatic whiskey: deep floral and juicy-fruit aromatics, stewed raisin, leather, tobacco, and a sweetness drawn from the mold-ripened Tokaji. Limited to roughly 55 barrels per release; when it's gone, it's gone. *(00:30:35)* - Gambit No. 6: Bottled at 92 proof (46% ABV) and non-chill filtered, Gambit begins with a six-year-old high-malt bourbon that first passes through stripped-and-re-toasted Chardonnay barrels before being split into four finishing streams — Oloroso Sherry, Muscatel, Tokaji, and Laird's apple brandy barrels — where it rests for 18-plus months. The resulting blend is deliberately Bordeaux-like in concept: the Chardonnay provides structure and brightness, the Oloroso brings nuttiness, the Tokaji adds juiciness, and the apple brandy ties every fruit note together. Soft, integrated, and sessionable at its proof. MSRP approximately $65. *(00:41:01)* Chip Tate is one of the most analytically minded distillers working in American craft spirits today, and this conversation makes that abundantly clear. Whether he's explaining why 46% ABV is the floor for non-chill filtration, drawing parallels between broken hollandaise and a misproofed blend, or describing how he shepherds hundreds of individual barrels through a six-way finish, his precision is matched only by his genuine love for the unexpected. Listeners who want to track down these bottles can find them through Southern Glazers distribution in most markets, or via direct-to-consumer options on the Ampersand and Gambit websites. A teaser for an upcoming fifth Ampersand release — described only as "a brother from another mother" to Opumus — should have fans of that expression paying close attention to Chip's Instagram at @ChipTateWhiskey.

Welcome back, roadies! Todd and Jim are joined in the corner of Rick House in Frankfort, Kentucky by returning guest Drew Hannush of the Whiskey Lore podcast for his sixth appearance on the show. The crew had just come off a big night in Lawrenceburg attending the premiere of Bo Cumberland's documentary *Spirit of Lawrenceburg*, a film tracing the deep distilling heritage of Anderson County — and they brought a very special bottle back from the event to kick things off. Drew also shares details about his ongoing research into the early history of bourbon, including a new book project that he is releasing chapter by chapter on his podcast as he writes it, inviting listener feedback in real time. On the Tasting Mat: - WH McBrayer 250th Special Edition Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey: A limited release of only 1,776 bottles celebrating 250 years of the McBrayer legacy. Bottled at 105 proof from a blend of 11 barrels aged five to seven years, using the distinctive Bloody Butcher corn mash bill (88.4% Bloody Butcher corn, 5.8% Heritage Rye, 5.8% Malted Barley). The nose opens with stone fruits — pear and apple — alongside a well-aged grain character and a light mint note. The palate is full and lingering, leaning sweet upfront before drying out with oak, rye spice, and cinnamon on the finish. MSRP $100, available at select Northern Kentucky retailers and at Bourbon on the Bank. *(00:01:58)* - Hard Truth Double Oak Sweet Mash Bourbon: A limited release from Hard Truth Distilling Co. in Nashville, Indiana, bottled at 106.1 proof. Made from a mash bill of 73% corn, 19% rye, and 8% malted barley, this expression undergoes a secondary aging of over one year in a second custom-char new American oak barrel. Only 28 barrels were produced. The nose is relatively subdued with mild herbal notes, but the palate delivers a rich, concentrated punch of sweetness backed by dark fruits, graham cracker, toasted granola, and a bitter dark chocolate finish with hints of cola. The secondary barrel adds sweetness without overwhelming the whiskey with char or marshmallow notes. MSRP approximately $60. *(00:17:30)* - Bardstown Bourbon Company Victoria Pineapple Barrel Finish: A finished American whiskey blending 10- and 11-year-old straight bourbon and rye, aged 27 months in rum casks that previously held premium rum aged with prized Victoria Pineapple — with fresh pineapple also added directly to the barrel during finishing. Bottled at 106.1 proof and available only in Kentucky. MSRP $140 for a 750ml. The nose is immediately tropical and warming, with grilled pineapple and a gentle burn. The palate is lush and syrupy-sweet — not quite cloying — with a mouthfeel that lingers, layers of tropical fruit, and just enough rye spice and dark cherry emerging on subsequent sips. The panel agreed this pours like a cocktail in a glass, with strong potential as a highball or warm-weather sipper. *(00:30:00)* - Potter Jane Big Fat Liar Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey: The first aged whiskey release from Potter Jane Distilling Company in Springfield, Kentucky, founded by industry veterans Denny Potter and Jane Bowie. The name playfully references their earlier vow never to source whiskey — a promise this bottle good-naturedly breaks. Aged six years, vatted for seven months in American and French oak casks, and bottled at 109.4 proof. Limited to approximately 1,200 bottles, released during Kentucky Bourbon Week. MSRP $49.99. The nose is light and classic, with vanilla, a touch of apple, and a hint of citrus. The palate is well-balanced and viscous, with a sweet sizzle on entry, apple cobbler, restrained dark chocolate, and a quiet coffee-bean note on the finish. Crushable and approachable at proof, with nothing out of place. *(00:33:26)* Four bottles, four personalities, one memorable evening in Kentucky bourbon country. Whether you caught the *Spirit of Lawrenceburg* premiere or are just tuning in for the whiskey, this episode covers the spectrum from heritage grain bourbons to tropical barrel experiments — all in a tight proof band that made for a genuinely competitive tasting mat. Be sure to check out Drew Hannush and the Whiskey Lore podcast, and head over to thebourbonroad.com to join the Roadie Bar, search our full archive of 1,360-plus tasting notes, and keep up with everything happening on the Bourbon Road.

Welcome back, Roadies, to another episode of The Bourbon Road! Tonight hosts Jim Shannon and Todd are joined by a very special returning guest — Scott Page of My Bourbon Journey — for a deep dive into the world of cigar blend whiskeys. Scott brings nearly a decade of YouTube whiskey content and a genuine passion for the cigar and whiskey pairing lifestyle, making him the perfect companion for tonight's theme. The guys explore what "cigar blend" actually means in the modern whiskey landscape, from price-friendly everyday pours to high-proof cask-strength Canadian whiskeys, all while trading notes on what sticks, wrappers, and ring gauges might best complement each glass. On the Tasting Mat: - Wheel Horse Cigar Blend: A five-year Green River-sourced bourbon at 101 proof built on a mash bill of 70% corn, 21% rye, and 9% barley, finished for six to eight months in Port, Cognac, Sherry, and Armagnac casks. MSRP $45. The nose opens with dark jammy fruit, rich nuttiness, and a hint of Pedro Ximénez-style dried cherry sweetness. The palate matches the nose closely with a velvety texture, rye spice, and a satisfying oak backbone — all at a remarkably approachable price point. *(00:04:55)* - Barrel Cigar Blend: A blend of 7.5- to 18-year bourbons sourced from Indiana, Kentucky, and Tennessee, bottled at 111.2 proof and finished in Madeira, Rum, Armagnac, and Hungarian Oak casks. MSRP $85. The nose carries an intriguing minerality with pencil shavings and a bright citrus-and-dark-fruit combination. On the palate it is notably velvety and sticky with a Dr Pepper-like interplay of baking spice, cola, and dark fruit, closing on a long vanilla custard finish. *(00:16:39)* - Joseph Magnus Cigar Blend Batch 79: A blend of 11- to 18-year MGP Indiana bourbon finished in Armagnac, Sherry, and Cognac casks, bottled at 127 proof. Blended by master blender Nancy Fraley and dubbed "The Sweet One 2" in her signature poetic tasting notes. MSRP approximately $199. The nose is immediately rich with earthy Armagnac character, baking spice, and Christmas cookie sweetness. The palate delivers a seamless rush of fruit, oak, spice, orange icing, and nutmeg on a long, layered finish that rewards slow sipping. *(00:34:07)* - Copper & Cask Small Batch Series No. 15 Cigar Blend: A 21-year blended Canadian whiskey originally distilled and matured in Alberta, composed of 17 barrels and finished for approximately six months in Armagnac and Tawny Port casks before being bottled at cask strength — a towering 157.8 proof. MSRP approximately $80. The nose requires careful approach given the proof, but reveals cotton candy, strawberry, and a distinctive funky earthiness. The palate opens with spicy apple juice character, tropical fruit, ripe cheese-rind funkiness, and hints of cocoa powder and raisin on the extraordinarily long finish. *(00:43:43)* Whether you are a seasoned cigar lounge regular or simply curious about how wine and brandy finishes intersect with good bourbon, tonight's lineup offers something for every palate and wallet. Scott Page is a thoughtful and entertaining guest whose perspective on pairing tobacco and whiskey adds real depth to the conversation. Be sure to seek out his channel, My Bourbon Journey, on YouTube and Instagram, and tune in every Tuesday evening at 8 PM Eastern for his live streams. As always, thanks for riding with us — we will see you down the Bourbon Road.

Welcome back to The Bourbon Road, recorded live at the Bourbon Road Bar in Simpsonville, Kentucky. Hosts Jim Shannon and Todd settle in for a double-barrel recording day — two episodes back to back — and they've dedicated this session entirely to finished whiskeys. Four bottles make it to the mat tonight, each one showcasing a different finishing technique: rum barrels, French and Appalachian oak staves, honey-coated barrels, and maple syrup casks. It is a sweet, sessionable lineup that ranges from 101 to 110 proof, proving that finished whiskeys can be approachable without sacrificing character. On the Tasting Mat: - Wheel Horse Double Mash Whiskey, Finished in Caribbean Rum Barrels (101 proof): A limited-edition blend of Green River Straight Bourbon (70% corn, 21% rye, 9% malted barley) and Straight Rye (95.5% rye), each aged a minimum of five years and then finished for up to two years in three styles of Caribbean rum barrels. Distilled at Latitude Spirits (Green River), MSRP $45. The nose opens with molasses, leather, and cooked brown sugar — rich but not heavy. On the palate it delivers a sweet, easy-drinking profile with a noticeable rye bite and a finish that runs a little shy. An excellent candidate for cocktails, highballs, or a few cubes. *(00:03:20)* - Gypsy Explorer Straight Bourbon, Finished with French and Appalachian Oak Staves (103 proof): The inaugural release in the Explorer series from Eric Church's Gypsy brand. A blend of two six-year-old bourbons — a low-rye Kentucky distillate (sweetness-forward) and a high-rye Indiana distillate (spice-forward) — yielding a combined mash bill of 66% corn, 30% rye, and 4% malted barley, reduced to 103 proof and then finished with staves sourced from the forests of Tronçais, France, and the Appalachian Mountains. MSRP $69.99. The nose is standout: rich, layered, and inviting. The palate softens dramatically into buttery Danish butter cookie territory, with dried apricots, honey, pistachios, and a baklava-like sweetness. Vanilla from the French oak weaves throughout. Approachable enough for any drinker, complex enough to contemplate neat. *(00:10:03)* - Pursuit x Meat Church Honey Hog Barrel Bourbon (105 proof): A limited-edition collaboration between Pursuit Spirits and Matt Pittman's Meat Church BBQ, designed as a tabletop companion to smoked meats. The blend combines Kentucky (78% corn, 10% rye, 12% malted barley) and Tennessee (80% corn, 10% rye, 10% malted barley) straight bourbons. Finishing involved coating barrels with over 55 gallons of Texas wildflower honey sourced from Burleson's Honey in Waxahachie, Texas. 105 proof, MSRP $79.99 for a 700 ml bottle, primarily available through the Pursuit P Club and the Pursuit Louisville location. The nose is sweet, floral, and unmistakably wildflower honey. The palate follows suit with a large honey presence alongside classic bourbon caramel — forward and sweet. A natural companion for the grill or as a warm-weather sipper. *(00:23:50)* - Short Barrel Sapsquatch Straight Bourbon, Finished in Maple Syrup Barrels (110 proof): Short Barrel's maple-forward annual release begins with a blend of Kentucky (70% corn, 21% rye, 9% malted barley, aged 6–8 years) and Indiana (75% corn, 21% rye, 4% malted barley, aged 6–8 years) bourbons. Unusually, the whiskey first conditions in stainless steel with sugar maple fusion spirals for six to eight weeks, building a foundation of maple depth and caramelized sugar before ever entering a finishing barrel. It then moves into Kelvin Cooperage toasted barrels that previously held maple syrup sourced from Vermont and Ohio. 110 proof, MSRP $89.99. The nose is dark and maple-rich but measured — not syrup-bomb territory. On the palate: whole-grain pancakes, warm butter, caramelized sugar, and toasted marshmallow, with the maple remaining present but disciplined. Notably, the finish pivots away from sweetness toward toasted oak, giving the whiskey structure and length. *(00:36:01)* Whether you're a fan of rum-influenced blends, buttery French oak, honey-laced barbecue whiskeys, or maple-driven dessert drams, this episode has something to satisfy every sweet tooth on the tasting mat. Jim and Todd also remind listeners about the upcoming Sample Soirée on August 22nd at the Corner Rick House in Frankfort, Kentucky — home of the Frankfort Bourbon Society — where all those accumulated sample bottles finally get cracked open for the roadies. Sign up at thebourbonroad.com to reserve your spot and grab your official Roadie membership card for the door.

Welcome back to The Bourbon Road, airing from the Bourbon Road Bar in Simpsonville, Kentucky. This week Jim Shannon rejoins co-host Todd after a week away, and the two dive into a four-bottle lineup that spans continents, traditions, and corn colors. The session opens with a pair of Japanese-influenced whiskeys before pivoting to a high-rye Kentucky icon and a blue corn single barrel that rounds out one of the more eclectic tasting mats the show has assembled. On the Tasting Mat: - Bardstown Bourbon Company Distiller's Reserve – Mars Single Malt Japanese Blend: A 109.8-proof collaborative release blending 69% Kentucky 10-year bourbon (74 corn / 18 rye / 8 malted barley), 8% Kentucky 16-year bourbon (75 corn / 13 rye / 12 malted barley), 20% Mars Komagatake 5-year 100% malted barley, and 3% Mars Shinshu 5-year 100% malted barley. The Japanese whiskeys were co-aged with the Kentucky bourbons in barrel for a full year in Kentucky rather than merely finished. Available in 375ml at an MSRP of $100. The nose opens with bright orchard fruit, plum blossom, and a floral spring-day quality. On the palate it delivers concentrated, intense flavor with a mid-palate tingle, rich dark plum, orange marmalade, honeydew, and a savory undertone riding alongside well-integrated oak. *(00:02:52)* - Yokai Small Batch Bourbon (Mugen Spirits, 3rd Release): A 117-proof small batch aged 7–8 years, produced by Louisville-based Mugen Spirits, co-founded by Kojin Tashiro and Justin Delaney. The distillate is sourced from Bardstown Bourbon Company. Labels are created by a Japanese artist, and the name draws from Japanese folklore creatures. MSRP $99.99. The nose is classic and inviting — vanilla cream, cherry, and butterscotch caramel. The palate surprises with intensity: big flavors up front transitioning to a smokier, oakier back palate, with a notable red hots-style sizzle on the sides and rear of the mouth, hints of candy green apple, and a lingering almond nuttiness. *(00:12:52)* - Willett Family Estate Small Batch Bourbon: A cask-strength expression bottled at approximately 126.6 proof, blending 70–80% of Willett's high-rye mash bill (52 corn / 38 rye / 10 malted barley) with 20–30% of their traditional mash bill (72 corn / 13 rye / 15 malted barley), aged 4–5 years across roughly 50-barrel batches. MSRP $65. The nose is unmistakably Willett — spiced gumdrops, menthol, and grain from the pot still, balanced by sweet ethanol appropriate to its proof. On the palate, a bold upfront spice bite gives way to root beer float, Maraschino cherry, whipped cream, and a sassafras-like hound quality, with the finish fading a touch quicker than the powerful front palate suggests. *(00:27:44)* - Bluegrass Distillers Blue Corn Single Barrel Bourbon (7 Year): A single barrel expression bottled at barrel strength, 129 proof, from Elkwood Farm in Midway, Kentucky. The mash bill is 70% blue corn, 21% rye, and 9% malted barley, aged 7 years. MSRP $70, available at the distillery. The nose is subdued and corn-forward with a light graininess and a hint of blueberry. The palate opens up considerably: buttery and pastry-forward with blueberry hand-pie character, a glazed pastry quality, burnt orange citrus notes, and a slow, warming burn. The finish is notably long and satisfying, distinguishing it from the more front-loaded expressions on the mat. *(00:34:29)* Jim and Todd close out the episode with a reminder about their upcoming Roadie gathering at the Frankfurt Bourbon Society on August 22nd from 5–8 PM. Entry is $5 (temporary FBS membership) and requires a Bourbon Road member ID card — sign up free at TheBournonRoad.com to get yours and RSVP through the Roadie Bar event calendar. Expect a room full of sample bottles, Frankfurt Bourbon Society members, door prizes, and good company. Whether you're a local Kentucky Roadie or making a bourbon trail weekend of it, come find Jim and Todd and raise a glass in person.

Todd flies solo this week on The Bourbon Road, welcoming back Rick and Ricky Johnson of 15 Stars Bourbon for their third appearance on the show. The father-and-son team behind one of Kentucky's most decorated independent blending operations returns to walk through the newly revamped First West lineup — four expressions that mark a landmark moment for the brand: the first releases to feature whiskey distilled entirely by the 15 Stars team, including juice made from their proprietary heirloom corns. Rick and Ricky share the full origin story of why they got into the business, how a single black popcorn corn variety sparked the whole journey, and why patient, fully mature whiskey and obsessive flavor-proofing sit at the core of everything they do. The conversation covers the philosophy behind blending for the best possible flavor rather than chasing a predetermined profile, the surprisingly visual experience of fermenting black corn (picture a literal witch's brew), the distinct flavor contributions of red, white, blue, and black heirloom corns, and why filtration matters just as much as proof when it comes to mouthfeel. Rick teases a very limited, very old upcoming release and an exclusive cigar-blend expression set to debut at the Kentucky Bourbon Festival — and Todd can barely contain himself. On the Tasting Mat: - First West Explorer: A five-grain wheated bourbon blending 15 Stars' own six-year-old black corn mashbill (70% black corn, 18% wheat, 12% malted barley) with a five-year-old yellow corn mashbill (70% corn, 18% rye, 12% malted barley). Bottled at 95 proof and retailing around $49.99, this is the first 15 Stars release made entirely from juice they distilled themselves. Expect meringue-level dessert sweetness, buttery vanilla wafer, caramel corn, and a distinctive peppery finish that traces directly back to the black corn. *(00:12:57)* - First West Small Batch: A six-grain blend anchored by 15 Stars' proprietary red, white, and blue corn mashbill — all three distilled together — combined with two separate yellow corn bourbon mashbills. Maximum 25 barrels per batch, bottled at 102 proof and retailing around $59.99. The red, white, and blue corn entry sits at 103 proof into the barrel. Softer and more fruit-forward than the Explorer, with dark cherry pie, citrus lift, and rich caramel on the palate. *(00:26:27)* - First West Toasted Oak: Built on a base very similar to the Small Batch, then finished in two distinct toasted oak profiles simultaneously — 60% in a sweeter caramel-and-maple profile, 40% in a more oak-forward profile — before the two portions are recombined. Bottled at 98 proof and retailing around $69.99. The toast adds depth and richness without overwhelming the underlying bourbon character; the nose delivers a satisfying layered complexity of toasted wood and the fruit-forward notes of the base blend. *(00:39:13)* - First West Extra Aged: The only expression in the First West line without heirloom corns, and the only one featuring a high-malted-barley mashbill (at roughly 10% of the blend). A blend of three different eight- and nine-year-old bourbons, bottled at 110 proof (confirmed from label review). Retails around $79.99. The extra barrel time delivers elegance and softness: grain character has receded and rich barrel influence steps forward, with plum, dark stewed fruits, orange marmalade, and a full-bodied depth anchored by that malted barley accent. *(00:58:17)* First West is available at retail in approximately 20 states across the eastern United States, with select availability at the Bardstown Bourbon Company distillery. All four expressions — and additional 15 Stars and Kentucky County releases — can be ordered online at 15stars.com with shipping to 43 states. Stay current with new releases and early announcements by signing up for Ricky's personal newsletter at the 15 Stars website, or follow the brand on Facebook and Instagram at @15StarsBourbon.

Welcome back to the Bourbon Road Bar, where Jim and Todd settle in for a five-bottle session packed with limited releases, aged expressions, and a little bit of everything the whiskey world has to offer right now. Tonight's lineup spans wheat whiskey, high-rye bourbon, east-coast rye, and some serious Beam family heavy-hitters — all barrel strength, all worthy of serious attention. On the Tasting Mat: - Makers Mark Star Hill Farms Wheat Whiskey 2026: A 116.4-proof wheat whiskey bottled at 700ml, featuring a revised mash bill of 62% malted wheat, 27% wheat, and 11% malted barley — including undisclosed amounts of hard red and hard white wheat, plus experimental barrels pulled from three warehouses with a 20-point proof swing. Aged 7–8 years. The nose opens with earthy cherry, turkey figs, and dark fruit, while the palate delivers an oily, velvety texture with baking spices, vanilla, and a distinctive wheat whiskey bite on the back of the palate. MSRP $100. *(00:01:48)* - New Riff 10 Year Bourbon 2026: Bottled at 116.9 proof from a mash bill of 65% corn, 30% rye, and 5% malted barley, this Kentucky bourbon offers a nose of caramel, vanilla, and baking spices with a hint of root beer. On the palate, a honeyed peach and dried apricot character emerges alongside tobacco, leather, and mature oak — drying toward the finish with impressive length. Available at New Riff Distillery and to whiskey club members. MSRP $89.99. *(00:09:50)* - New Riff 10 Year Rye 2026: A 95% rye, 5% malted barley mash bill bottled at 118.8 proof, this east-coast rye comes in at the same price point of $89.99. The nose is immediately striking — spearmint, pine forest, citrus zest, and dried orange. The palate is exceptionally thick and viscous, carrying the mint and zest through with clove, pine nut, and a cooling quality that gives way to a long, peppery oak finish. Available at New Riff Distillery and to whiskey club members. *(00:17:00)* - Little Book Chapter 10 "All the Wiser" 2026: Freddie Noe's tenth Little Book chapter is an homage to the beloved Chapter 3 "The Road Home," blending 11-year Knob Creek, 14-year Basil Hayden, 10-year Booker's, 9-year Baker's, and a 4-year Jim Beam finished in sherry and toasted casks — all uncut at 122.6 proof. The nose is rich and mahogany-dark with vanilla, nuttiness, and a subtle sherry influence. The palate is decadent: dark Luxardo cherry, chocolate, snicker-like nuttiness, molasses, and a long, spicy, sizzling finish that simply refuses to leave. MSRP $160 for 750ml. *(00:27:17)* - Booker's 2026-01 "Big Easy Batch": The first Booker's batch of 2026, named in honor of Booker Noe's legendary love of New Orleans, is aged 7 years, 2 months, and 15 days at a big 129.1 proof. Mash bill is 77% corn, 13% rye, and 10% malted barley. The nose presents caramel apple, green apple, and pie crust. On the palate, a perfectly cooked caramel apple pie character develops with a noticeable fruitiness that runs a bit off the typical Booker's nutty profile — finishing with warmth and spice. MSRP $100 for 750ml. *(00:37:14)* Five barrel-strength pours, two distilleries, and one very tough call at the end — this is the kind of evening that makes the Bourbon Road Bar worth pulling up a stool for. Whether you're hunting shelf staples or chasing limited releases, tonight's lineup has something to put on your radar. As always, check out the full tasting notes and scores over at TheBourbon Road.com, and we'll see you down the Bourbon Road.

Welcome back to The Bourbon Road, recording live from the Bourbon Road Bar in Simpsonville, Kentucky — better known as Jim's basement. Episode 502 brings another overflowing tasting mat, proof that the samples just keep arriving faster than the boys can pour them. This week the lineup spans the full spectrum, from a brand-new family-founded label making its debut on the show to a beloved Illinois estate distillery, a coveted gift-shop-only release from a Northern Kentucky craft powerhouse, a toasted double oak expression from one of Owensboro's finest, and a bonus pour courtesy of a longtime Roadie friend from Ohio — a beer-world icon that crossed over into whiskey and never looked back. On the Tasting Mat: - Wooler Whiskey Kentucky Straight Bourbon (Batch 054): A four-grain, five-year-old small batch Kentucky straight bourbon bottled at 90 proof for $39.99. The mash bill runs 72% corn, 18% rye, 5% wheat, and 5% malted barley, distilled in Bardstown and finished in a number three char new American oak barrel. The nose opens with a pleasant graininess reminiscent of granola or muesli, accented by honey and the faintest dusting of cinnamon. The palate delivers a sweet, full-mouth experience with caramel, vanilla, and a gentle wheat-driven tingle on the finish. A welcoming, approachable bourbon from a family brand founded by Jason Wooler — built on resilience after a life-changing stroke. *(00:01:58)* - Whiskey Acres 7-Year Bourbon: Estate-distilled in DeKalb, Illinois, this 107-proof small batch blends 12 barrels aged between seven and eight years. The mash bill is 75% yellow dent corn, 15% soft red winter wheat, and 10% malted barley, with an MSRP of $74.99. The nose leads with green apple and caramel, evoking a candy-apple at a county fair. On the palate the soft winter wheat delivers a notably smooth texture, with spice building on the back, a whisper of oak and clove on the finish, and a subtle savory note that sets it apart. Whiskey Acres grows every grain themselves — a true seed-to-spirit operation and the show's 2025 Craft Distillery of the Year. *(00:10:22)* - New Riff Silver Grove Bourbon (2026 Release): The inaugural release under the Silver Grove label, this gift-shop-exclusive expression from New Riff Distilling in Newport, Kentucky is aged a minimum of six years and bottled at 116.4 proof for $59.99. Barrels were specifically selected for flavor profiles not typically found in New Riff's standard four- and six-year releases. The nose bursts with spice cake, bright cherry, and a morning-bun sweetness. The palate delivers a bold, full-mouth impact — honey-caramel richness layered with dark berry, cherry, and a long, warming finish. Available exclusively at the New Riff gift shop or via online order for in-store pickup. *(00:20:41)* - Green River Distillery Select Toasted Double Oak Bourbon: The oldest expression ever released by Green River Distilling Company in Owensboro, Kentucky, this eight-year bourbon is bottled at 115.1 proof in a 375ml format for $49.99 and is available only at the distillery gift shop or the Louisville tasting room. The mash bill is 70% corn, 21% rye, and 9% malted barley, aged in Green River's signature clay tile rick houses before a six-month secondary finish in lightly charred, medium-toast new American oak barrels. The nose delivers toasted marshmallow and a hint of campfire smoke. The palate is noticeably sweet — rich caramel and that same toasted marshmallow character carry through without tipping into char. *(00:27:34)* - New Holland Dragon's Milk Origins Small Batch Bourbon Whiskey (Bonus Pour): A gift from Roadie Mark Radliff and his wife Amy, this 95-proof, five-year-old bourbon from New Holland Brewing Company in Holland, Michigan is distilled on a pot still and finished in barrels previously used to age Dragon's Milk stout. The nose is immediately distinctive — chocolate, ripe peach, and a gummy fruit quality that carries straight through to the palate. The palate layers peach pie, a minty rye backbone, and a gentle sweetness unlike anything else on tonight's mat. A beer-world crossover that demonstrates what stout-barrel finishing can do for a well-made pot-still bourbon. *(00:38:25)* Episode 502 is a showcase of American craft whiskey in all its variety — from a $40 debut bottle to a proof-forward gift-shop gem — and a reminder that some of the most memorable pours come from the most unexpected places. If you haven't yet, head over to TheBourbanRoad.com, create a free Roadie account, and join the conversation in the Roadie Bar. Until next time, we'll see you down the Bourbon Road.

Welcome back to The Bourbon Road, Episode 501! Todd and Jim are joined in the Bourbon Road Bar — aka Tim's Basement — by special guest Dan Mattingly, a Roadie since 2020, Frankfurt Bourbon Society board member, and all-around bourbon enthusiast. The occasion calls for glasses raised to the 250th anniversary of America, a theme that drives most of tonight's tasting lineup, plus one very fun outlier to kick things off. On the Tasting Mat: - Dragon Con Bourbon by Old Fourth Distillery (40th Anniversary Edition): A 94-proof high-rye bourbon (75% corn, 21% rye, 4% malted barley) aged 4–6 years, released in collaboration with Atlanta's iconic Dragon Con convention. Limited to 3,700 bottles at $39.99. The nose opens with overripe fruit — banana, apple, and strawberry — while the palate delivers strawberry cream, a cool refreshing wash, and a gentle spice on the tail. A crushable, fruit-forward summer sipper that punches well above its price. *(00:02:51)* - 15 Stars Kentucky County Six-Year Straight Bourbon (250th Anniversary): A blend of two Kentucky straight bourbons, each aged a minimum of six years, bottled at 90 proof and retailing for $38. Named in honor of the historic 1776 Kentucky County of Virginia's western frontier. The nose is light and delicate — sugar cookie icing, poached pear, and faint florality. The palate is similarly airy, with a brief but pleasant finish of light molasses and white fruit. A well-priced, accessible pour designed for a broad audience. *(00:11:50)* - 15 Stars Kentucky County 12-Year American Whiskey (250th Anniversary): At 90 proof and $58, this expression blends Kentucky straight bourbon with an American whiskey distilled from a bourbon mashbill — aged seven years in second-use oak, then an additional five years in new charred oak. The nose carries more depth than its six-year sibling, with a hint of funk and gentle sweetness. The palate is soft and full-bodied, offering pear, white pepper spice, and a smooth finish with cotton candy sweetness and a light smokiness. A step up in complexity and a solid value for a 12-year expression. *(00:17:00)* - Copper & Cask Wave That Flag Nine-Year Double Oak Bourbon (250th Anniversary): This 117-proof, nine-year straight bourbon undergoes a secondary finish in a custom American oak wave-stave char (#1 char) barrel. Only 3,000 bottles were produced, retailing for $74.99. On the nose: apple cinnamon spice and rich sweetness. The palate is full-mouth and layered — cinnamon roll spice, pecan swirl sweetness, black raspberry, dark chocolate, and a savory leather finish with hints of evergreen cedar. A dollar from every bottle supports the Arcadia Center veteran farmer training program. *(00:31:30)* - Lost Lantern United States of Bourbon (Cask Strength, 250th Anniversary): The first-ever blend of straight bourbon whiskeys sourced from all 50 states — 50 distilleries, components ranging from 2 to 10 years old, bottled at cask strength 122.9 proof. Limited to 3,300 bottles at $99.99. The nose arrives with cosmic brownie chocolate, hard sugar candy, and warm baking spice. The palate opens with atomic fireball and red hots cinnamon heat, followed by dark cherry, black raspberry, leather, and a lingering oak-driven finish. A remarkable blending achievement and a fitting tribute to American bourbon craftsmanship coast to coast. *(00:38:09)* It's a fitting episode to follow the milestone of Episode 500 — five expressions, five stories about anniversaries big and small, all sharing one message: great bourbon is being made everywhere, and there's always something worth raising a glass to. Dan Mattingly brought great energy and sharp palate notes to the table, and we hope you'll stop by the new Bourbon Road website at thebourbonroad.com to join the Roadie community, grab your free membership, and stay in the loop on upcoming events, giveaways, and live tastings. Until next time, we'll see you down the Bourbon Road.

Episode 500 of The Bourbon Road is a milestone worth savoring, and hosts Jim Shannon and Todd welcome back the man who helped start it all — original co-host Randy Minnick. Randy joined Jim for the very first episodes of the show before life took him and his wife Julie to the mountains of Virginia, and tonight he returns to raise a glass and reminisce about the early days of one of bourbon podcasting's longest-running shows. The conversation winds through memories of drilling barrels with Elizabeth McCall at Woodford Reserve, tasting dusty Wild Turkeys with David Jennings in Lexington, and the slow but deliberate journey from a handful of listeners to over 3,200 Roadies strong. It is a night of gratitude, laughter, and genuinely outstanding whiskey. On the Tasting Mat: - Four Roses Limited Edition Small Batch 2022: A carefully composed annual release bottled at 109 proof, this Ellie opens with a beautifully floral nose of rose blossoms, ripe berries, and warm cinnamon. The palate is layered and polished in the way only a thoughtfully curated Four Roses release can be — sweet fruit up front giving way to gentle spice and a long, refined finish. A whiskey built for contemplation. *(00:02:03)* - Wild Turkey Masters Keep Beacon 13 Year: Bottled at 118 proof and finished in toasted American oak, the Beacon delivers the unmistakable Wild Turkey DNA in an elevated form. The nose offers grilled orange, dark cherry, toffee, and a signature dusty, funky oak character that is pure Lawrenceburg. On the palate the oak deepens into tobacco territory while sweetness from dark fruit and brown sugar keeps everything in beautiful balance. It does not drink its proof. *(00:21:00)* - Garrison Brothers Cowboy Bourbon 2021: Texas bourbon at its most unapologetic — 131.3 proof and a color so dark it borders on black water. The nose immediately conjures campfire s'mores, burnt marshmallow, overcooked caramel, and graham cracker. The palate follows through with deep molasses, charred oak, and a touch of dark chocolate. A whiskey made for a Maduro cigar under open sky. *(00:33:06)* - Augusta Distillery Buckner's 13 Year Single Barrel: A high-proof single barrel release at 138.6 proof, almost certainly Barton distilled, selected by Todd and Jason Colori. Rich, concentrated dark cherry dominates the nose alongside clove, cinnamon, and fresh ginger. The palate is big and enveloping with dried dark fruit, tobacco, and a long, warm finish that earns its proof. *(00:58:10)* Five hundred episodes in and the Bourbon Road shows no signs of slowing down. With a new theme song composed by Todd, a brand-new website at thebourbonroad.com complete with a searchable archive of over 1,300 tasting notes and the all-new Roadie Bar, the community around this show has never been stronger. Randy put it best — who would have thunk it? Here is to the next five hundred.

Jim Shannon and Todd Ritter welcome Bill Straub back to the Bourbon Road Bar — aka Jim's basement — for a deep dive into some of the most talked-about new special releases from the industry's biggest players. Bill, the co-founder of Fourgate Whiskey Company and the longtime voice behind ModernThirst.com, brings his seasoned palate and encyclopedic knowledge of mash bills to the table, making for a lively and insightful tasting session across four very different expressions. On the Tasting Mat: - Elijah Craig 15 Year Single Barrel (Barrel #28) — Heaven Hill: Bottled at 108 proof from Heaven Hill's classic 78/12/10 corn-malted barley-rye mash bill, this 15-year expression opens with a distinctive circus peanut and soft marshmallow nose that the guys identify as quintessential Heaven Hill. The palate delivers silky texture with almond and amaretto notes, while a pop of black pepper anchors a long, satisfying finish. MSRP $150. *(00:02:39)* - Old Forester Grand Dad 7 Year Single Barrel — Jim Beam (Old Grand-Dad): At 114 proof and carrying a high-rye mash bill of 63/27/10, this $50 release pours remarkably dark for its age. The nose offers orange marmalade and a subtle citrus-forward brightness, while the palate is smooth and somewhat reserved up front, building into a spicy, rye-bread-toast finish that lingers impressively. *(00:11:47)* - Wild Turkey Austin Nichols Archive Gold Foil Edition (16 Year): The centerpiece of the evening, this 120-proof blend of 16-year barrels from Camp Nelson Rick Houses D, E, and F is the inaugural release in Wild Turkey's new Archive series, designed to evoke the legendary cheesy gold foil bottles of the 1980s and '90s. The nose is rich with leather, graham cracker pie crust, dried fruit, and a compelling dusty vintage quality. On the palate it explodes with sweet tobacco, oak, coffee cake, citrus, and a hint of dark chocolate, delivering wall-to-wall flavor from entry to an extraordinarily long finish. MSRP $400. *(00:26:49)* - Stagg Batch 26A — Buffalo Trace: Coming in at a robust 129.3 proof with no age statement, this barrel-proof release from Buffalo Trace's Mash Bill #1 opens with concentrated brown sugar that lightens and brightens in the glass, revealing cherry cola, grape jelly, and just a touch of citrus. The palate runs straight down the center of the tongue with focused sweetness and a warm, brown-sugar-driven finish. MSRP $65. *(00:36:32)* Four powerhouse releases, four very different price points, and one table of guys who clearly love what they do — this episode is a reminder that the bourbon industry, for all its current turbulence, is still producing some truly extraordinary whiskey. Don't miss Bill's candid thoughts on the state of the market, the cease-and-desist story behind the ModernThirst mash bill table, and why he thinks Heaven Hill's peak window tops out right around 15 years.

Jim Shannon and Todd Ritter welcome listeners back to the Corner Rickhouse for a special episode centered around the upcoming documentary Spirits of Lawrenceburg: A Bourbon Legacy Forged Through Time . Joining them are Jerry Daniels of Stone Fences Tours — a Kentucky bourbon tourism expert and history enthusiast — and returning guest Bo Cumberland, the filmmaker behind the documentary. The conversation digs deep into the rich and often overlooked bourbon heritage of Lawrenceburg and Anderson County, Kentucky, tracing the families, distilleries, and waterways that made the region a powerhouse of American whiskey production from the early 1800s through Prohibition and beyond. On the Tasting Mat: - 1996 Dowling Deluxe 100 Proof: A dusty Heaven Hill-era bottling from 1996, this 100-proof bourbon pours an exceptionally dark amber. The nose opens with cherry pie and buttery pastry crust, with a light but present dusty funk characteristic of older Heaven Hill expressions. A beautiful example of pre-secondary-market-era bourbon in a plastic-capped bottle. *(00:02:29)* - Whiskey Barons Collection – W.B. Saffold (Wild Turkey): A blend of 6, 8, and 12-year Wild Turkey mashbill bourbons bottled at 107 proof as part of the limited Whiskey Barons series honoring legendary Anderson County distiller W.B. Saffold, once the yeast man at Cedar Brook Distillery. The nose and palate deliver classic Wild Turkey character: rich cherry, orange slice candy, toffee, and a subtle nuttiness reminiscent of almond shell. The finish is long, warm, and deeply satisfying. *(00:24:46)* - Frankfort Bourbon Society Single Barrel Four Roses OESQ, 9-Year 8-Month, Barrel Strength (123 Proof): Selected by the Frankfort Bourbon Society, this single barrel expression uses Four Roses' 20% rye mash bill with the Q yeast strain, aged 9 years and 8 months in barrel #85-5R (fifth tier rick). At a commanding 123 proof, it opens with brown sugar and sweet tea on the nose with delicate florality. The palate delivers a rich marriage of sweet oak, caramel, and deep barrel character, finishing with lingering sweet oak and brown spice. *(00:39:39)* - Old Commonwealth Kentucky Nectar Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey (104 Proof): A limited 2,400-bottle release from Old Commonwealth Distillery — operating on the historic Old Hoffman Distillery site in Lawrenceburg — this 4-year-old bourbon is finished in honey casks at 104 proof. The nose is notably sweet with dark chocolate and amaretto-like qualities. The palate is rich and dessert-forward, with a warm honey-laced finish that lingers gently. *(00:36:44)* With the premiere of Spirits of Lawrenceburg set for July 25th on the grounds of the historic T.B. Rippey Mansion, this episode is both a love letter to Anderson County's bourbon past and a preview of what promises to be Bo Cumberland's most expansive documentary yet. From the Hawkins and Bond families of the 1810s to Mary Dowling's indomitable legacy, from the devastation of the Whiskey Trust and Prohibition to the modern revival underway at Old Commonwealth and Larrikin, the full story of Lawrenceburg bourbon is finally getting its screen debut. Tickets are limited to 100 guests for the outdoor premiere event — details on the Spirits of Lawrenceburg Facebook page and the Stone Fences Tours social channels.

Jim Shannon and Todd Ritter welcome back two familiar faces to the corner of Rick House in Frankfort: Diane Strong, the driving force behind the Bourbon on the Banks Festival, and Bo Cumberland, the festival's videographer and distillery film maker. Together they settle in for a relaxed preview of the 2026 Bourbon on the Banks Festival — now in its seventh year — touching on new events, expanded programming, sold-out tickets, and the evolution of the single barrel program that has become one of the festival's most celebrated features. On the Tasting Mat: - James E. Pepper 1776 Single Barrel Bourbon (Bourbon on the Banks 2025 Pick): A barrel selected the prior year by Jim, Todd, and Bo at James E. Pepper Distillery in Lexington. Clocking in at 109.4 proof, this single barrel pours with rich aromas of cherry cola, leather, and a subtle barrel funk. The palate delivers a lush butterscotch sweetness — evoking Werther's Original hard candies — balanced by a satisfying peppery bite on the mid-palate. The finish is long, warm, and refuses to fade. A confidently balanced cask-strength pick available at the festival for around $60–65. *(00:01:54)* - Jeptha Creed Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey Single Barrel Reserve (Bourbon on the Banks 2025 Pick): A four-grain bourbon — built on the distillery's heirloom Bloody Butcher corn alongside wheat, malted barley, and rye — bottled at 119.52 proof from Warehouse B after seven years and one month of aging. The nose opens with intriguing complexity, revealing sweet cinnamon, a whisper of root beer, and a hint of fresh strawberry. The palate is full-powered and richly flavored, landing on buttered cinnamon pancakes with a wave of deep caramel. A distinctive expression that showcases just how compelling Jeptha Creed's long-aged releases have become. *(00:20:05)* On the Tasting Mat: Beyond the pours, the crew digs deep into everything Bourbon on the Banks 2026 has to offer: a sold-out Bourbon Bell River Tour with Ingram Distillery, the returning Whiskey Thief Kickoff Party (barrel burning included), a free family-friendly Friday night on the lawn with circus performers and a mermaid, the Culinary Bourbon Geek class with Peggy Noe Stevens now pushed to 2 p.m., a Friday VIP Reception and Auction sponsored by Larkin Bourbon, a Saturday morning brunch at Cypress and Oak, expanded single barrel picks from eleven distilleries including Angel's Envy, Pursuit Spirits, Jeptha Creed, Jackson Purchase, Boondocks, and others, and an after-party headlined by Creekwater with bluegrass openers Hancock and Schaus. Twilight tickets for the October 3rd main event are still available at bourbononthebanks.org . Be sure to visit thebourbonroad.com

Jim Shannon and Todd Ritter settle into the Bourbon Road bar for a warm-weather tasting session built around one unifying theme: light-proof, finished whiskeys perfect for summer sipping. The pair reconnect after Jim's trip to Branson and Todd's afternoon on the soccer sidelines, pouring five bottles that span maple syrup barrels, maple wood chunks, raw honey, port wine casks, and even an old fashioned cocktail mixer barrel — each one bringing its own creative approach to the art of the finish. On the Tasting Mat: - Iron Fish Distillery Bourbon Whiskey Finished in Maple Syrup Barrels (86 proof): A craft bourbon out of Thompsonville, Michigan, finished in barrels previously used to age maple syrup from a nearby family sugar bush farm. The nose opens with caramel green apple and buttery sweetness with virtually no ethanol heat. The palate is confectionary and sweet with a gentle warmth and a soft, hugging finish. Award-winning and approachable, this one shines as a warm-weather pour, especially over a large ice cube or alongside a glass of half-and-half iced tea. Retails around $50. *(00:02:11)* - Company Distilling Weated Bourbon Finished with Maple Wood Chunks (90 proof): From the distillery co-founded by former Jack Daniel's master distiller Jeff Arnett, this weated bourbon blends whiskey from three states using both column and pot stills, aged four to six years. Rather than using a maple syrup barrel, fully matured straight bourbon was finished by placing maple wood chunks directly into the whiskey to coax natural toasted wood character. The nose carries green apple, a hint of cinnamon toast, and a subtle forest smokiness. The palate is extraordinarily silky and smooth with very little impact up front, building to a light zip on the finish. A dangerously sessionable pour. Retails around $50. *(00:07:04)* - Green River Honey Finished Bourbon (92 proof): Distilled and aged in Owensboro, Kentucky, this four-year-old Green River straight bourbon was finished by adding a custom blend of locally sourced, seasonally selected raw unfiltered honey directly into the barrel, allowing the bourbon and honey to marry through natural barrel interaction. The result is a honey-colored, notably sweet whiskey with a confectionary nose and a smooth, very approachable palate that lends itself to mixing — a spiked Arnold Palmer or a light honey old fashioned being natural fits. Presented in distinctive hexagonal honeycomb-themed packaging. Retails at $24.99. *(00:13:31)* - Oak Lore Distilling Company Port Cask Finished Four Grain Bourbon (92 proof): From Oak Lore Distilling in North Carolina, this four-grain bourbon sourced from Southern Distilling in Statesville, NC and Kentucky partners including Bardstown/Green River receives an additional 12 to 18 months of maturation in freshly dumped domestic port wine barrels that previously held port for up to 18 years. The nose is dark and figgy with cherry and deep fruit. The palate opens with upfront sweetness before settling into a rich, heavy dark fruit finish reminiscent of well-aged port. A campfire evening sipper, particularly appealing to port lovers making the move toward bourbon. Retails at $79.95. *(00:21:48)* - Oak Lore Distilling Company Old Fashioned Finished Four Grain Bourbon (98 proof): The second of Oak Lore's Story Series entries, this four-grain bourbon finishes for an additional 18 months in barrels previously used to age Oak Lore's own old fashioned cocktail mixer. The result captures the essence of a classic old fashioned — bitters-forward aromatics with hints of orange, ginger, cardamom, and baking spice on the nose. The palate opens sweet and transitions into a bittery, cocktail-like finish that calls for nothing more than an ice cube and an orange garnish. Retails at $89.95. *(00:31:46)* Jim and Todd round out the episode with news about the freshly launched Bourbon Road website, which now hosts over 1,320 tasting notes, all 500-plus episodes, a searchable blog, and the all-new Roadie Bar — a members community complete with chat, event calendars, giveaways, and a 24/7 AI bartender named Cooper. The pair also tease an upcoming event at the Frankfurt Bourbon Society's Corner Rick House during the Bourbon on the Banks weekend on October 3rd. Sign up at thebourbonroad.com to join the community and secure your spot.

Jim Shannon and Todd Ritter are back at the Corner Rickhouse in Frankfort, Kentucky, just down the road from Buffalo Trace, settling in for a heritage distillery tasting that spans from the hills of Lynchburg, Tennessee, all the way through the heart of Kentucky bourbon country. The guys kick off with the latest annual drops from Jack Daniel's before crossing the state line to visit some of the storied names that built American whiskey into what it is today. Along the way, Jim and Todd also chat about the swirling acquisition rumors surrounding Brown-Forman, the upcoming 250th anniversary of the United States, and what it means for a legacy brand to stay independent. On the Tasting Mat: - **Jack Daniel's 10 Year Old Batch 5 (2026):** The newest annual release of Jack's decade-aged Tennessee whiskey, bottled at 97 proof with an 80/12/8 corn-rye-malt mash bill. The nose opens with inviting molasses, banana candy, brown sugar, cinnamon, and a hint of chocolate alongside a light leather note. On the palate it delivers warmth well above its sub-100 proof, with brown sugar, candy cherry, and a lingering spice-driven finish. *(00:01:48)* - Jack Daniel's 12 Year Old Batch 4 (2026) : The 12-year step-up in the Tennessee Heritage series, clocking in at 107 proof. The nose is more muted than its younger sibling but shifts toward darker fruit — raisins, black cherries, and molasses. The palate moves away from the lighter candy notes into a drier, more structured profile with bitter chocolate, dried cranberry, and a savory, slightly green mid-palate character. *(00:09:35)* - Knob Creek Blender's Edition 01 — Sweet Bourbon Blend: The first installment in a new Knob Creek blending series, this 10-year-old Kentucky straight bourbon is bottled at 106 proof and retails for around $45. The nose leans into vanilla and light Rick house funk rather than the brand's signature nuttiness. The palate follows with a light, vanilla-forward profile featuring cake batter sweetness and confectionary notes — a deliberate stylistic departure aimed at accessibility. *(00:14:35)* - Maker's Mark Wood Finishing Series — Steward's Release : The third entry in Maker's Mark's five-part Wood Finishing Series, finished on 10 toasted American oak staves and bottled at approximately 109.8 proof for around $75–$80. The nose is richly expressive — cherry pie filling, baking spices, cinnamon, and caramel. The palate delivers vanilla custard, honey, chocolate, cardamom, allspice, stone fruit, and a savory oak note on the back end. *(00:26:41)* - Evan Williams America 250th Commemorative Edition Single Barrel (Barrel #233) : A special single barrel release bottled at the patriotically meaningful 117.76 proof to honor the nation's 250th birthday. Barrel #233 was laid down December 15, 2018 and bottled March 2, 2026 — just over eight years of maturation. The nose features toasted caramel, peanut shell, oak, and dark berries. The palate is rich and layered with peach, berry, sweet oak, and a long finish, all for a remarkable $45 retail price. *(00:31:15)* Jim and Todd wrap up with a ranking of all five pours, debating heritage versus innovation across some of American whiskey's most iconic names. Whether you're a longtime fan of the Tennessee tradition or a Kentucky bourbon devotee, this episode offers a wide-ranging tour through the legacies that built the brown water world we know today. Grab your favorite pour and enjoy the ride. Be sure to check the Roadie Bar on our website at: https://thebourbonroad.com

Jim Shannon and Todd Ritter welcome Stephen Corrigan — Barrel Master and Spirits Production Manager for Latitude Beverage LLC — for a four-bottle deep dive into two of the company's brands: Wheel Horse Whiskey and Copper and Cask Spirits. Stephen shares his winding path from organic farming and European viticulture to founding a DC craft distillery and ultimately landing at Latitude, where his focus is entirely on the art of blending and cask finishing. The conversation explores what it means to be a transparent non-distilling producer, the close relationship Latitude has built with Green River Distillery in Owensboro, Kentucky, and how aging barrels across wildly different climates — from the cold, damp Rhode Island coast to the sweltering Florida interior — coaxes remarkably distinct flavor profiles from the same base distillate. On the Tasting Mat: - Wheel Horse Barrel Master Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey (Batch 002): 113 proof, 5-year age statement, sourced from Green River Distillery (70% corn, 21% rye, 9% malted barley), blended from 14 barrels, non-chill filtered. Rich cherry cola on the nose, brown sugar and baking spice on the mid-palate, and a satisfying oak-driven finish with a full, coating mouthfeel. Retails for approximately $40. *(00:01:51)* - Wheel Horse Barrel Master Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey (Batch 001): 120.2 proof, 5-year age statement, sourced from Green River Distillery (95% rye, 5% malted barley), blended from 11 barrels, non-chill filtered. Reportedly the first cask-strength Green River rye released commercially. Candied orange and dark fruit on the nose give way to a lively rye spice on the finish, with a notably viscous and oily texture. Retails for approximately $40. *(00:13:57)* - Copper and Cask Small Batch 16 Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey: 116 proof, 11-year age statement, sourced from MGP (60% corn, 36% rye, 4% malted barley), blended from 24 barrels across two distinct lots laid down in September 2014, non-chill filtered. One lot delivers cocoa powder and austere oak depth; the other brings maraschino cherry, citrus, and a youthful vibrancy. Together they yield cream soda, fruitcake, and a ginger-tinged finish. Retails for approximately $84.99. *(00:25:54)* - Copper and Cask Sauternes Cask Finish Bourbon (Single Barrel, Influencer Pick): 119.8 proof, 8-year age statement, sourced from MGP (60% corn, 36% rye, 4% malted barley), finished approximately 16 months in a Sauternes barrel, non-chill filtered. Selected in collaboration with whiskey influencers Whiskey Fly and Bourbon Hunt. Deep mahogany color; grape must, raisin, plum, and fig on the nose; a viscous, almost tawny port-like texture on the palate with a dry rye-spice counterpoint on the finish. Retails for approximately $64.99–$69.99. *(00:39:15)* Beyond the bottles, Stephen opens up about the blending philosophy that guides every Latitude release — letting the whiskey dictate its own proof point, building toward a finish that lingers, and keeping price points honest so drinkers can pull a bottle off the shelf on any random Tuesday. He also teases the possibility of a future crossover product bridging the Wheel Horse and Copper and Cask lines, and confirms that Florida-aged barrels will be returning to the Copper and Cask single barrel program after a brief hiatus. Whether you're drawn to the accessible value of Wheel Horse or the premium craft of Copper and Cask, this episode makes a strong case that Rhode Island is quietly becoming one of the more interesting addresses in American whiskey. Be sure to checkout https://thebourbonroad.com

Jim Shannon and Todd Ritter are back at the Bourbon Road bar for a dedicated rye whiskey night, working through five distinct expressions that showcase the breadth and character of American rye. From honey-finished blends to farm-strength single-grain pours, the lineup spans distilleries across Nevada, Ohio, Maryland, Kentucky, and Atlanta, giving listeners a wide-angle view of what rye whiskey looks like in 2025 and beyond. On the Tasting Mat: ** - Short Barrel After Swarm 2: A blend of MGP and Green River 95/5 rye finished in Kelvin Cooperage barrels previously soaked with Oregon meadow foam honey for approximately 10–11 months, then aged an additional 11–12 months in those honey-conditioned staves. Bottled at 108.6 proof and retailing around $115, this six-plus-year expression opens with unmistakable honey on the nose alongside coconut and vanilla, leading to a syrupy, well-balanced palate of rye muffin, honey butter, and toasted pine nuts, with a finish that drifts toward Mexican chocolate and dried chili. *(00:01:19)* - New Riff 10 Year Malted Rye: A special limited 375ml release from New Riff Distilling in Newport, Kentucky, drawn from a two- to three-barrel blend of 100% malted rye aged a minimum of ten years and bottled at 118.8 proof (approximately $46 for the 375ml). The nose offers earthy, chalky minerality with underlying fruit and aromatic spice. On the palate it shows a softer, grain-forward character with dry dark chocolate, mint, and a coniferous, living-forest quality on the finish. *(00:09:23)* - Frey Ranch Farm Strength Uncut Rye: A 100% Canadian winter rye expression from Frey Ranch in Northern Nevada, distilled and aged on the same 2,500-acre farm where the grain is grown, aged a minimum of six years and bottled at cask strength, 124.52 proof. Available exclusively through the distillery's online shop at $79.99, this pour delivers an exceptional grain-forward nose with cream sweetness, fresh strawberry, and an almost field-fresh rye character. The palate is smooth and deceptively easy-drinking for the proof, with candy cinnamon and a long, clean finish that highlights the integrity of the single-farm grain. *(00:16:01)* - Pursuit United Triple Mash Rye: Blended and bottled by Pursuit United in Louisville, Kentucky, this expression combines three distinct mash bills — Sagamore Spirits high-corn rye (52% rye / 43% corn / 5% malted barley), Sagamore Spirits 95/5 rye, and Bardstown, Kentucky 95/5 rye — with barrels ranging roughly four to eight years old, all bottled at barrel proof of 124.8 and retailing for $79.99. The nose is warm and holiday-spiced with dark fruit, nutmeg, cinnamon, and a hint of citrus. The palate is buttery and velvety with blueberry, lemon sorbet, and a trefoil-cookie sweetness, finishing long and satisfying. *(00:25:53)* - Archer Eland Cashmere Rye: A collaboration between founder Wendy Pevich (formerly of Penelope Bourbon) and Middle West Spirits in Columbus, Ohio, this expression uses 100% Ohio-grown rye — a combination of standard and malted rye — aged approximately seven years and bottled at 126 proof, retailing for $84.99. The nose leads with dried apricot, peach, and a malt-forward fruitiness. On the palate it balances earthiness, ripe fruit, and a pronounced spicy mint-pepper character, with a medium-length finish carrying peach soda and fresh mint. *(00:32:38)* Rye whiskey night at the Bourbon Road bar proved once again that the category rewards exploration. Whether you gravitate toward the softer, sweetened side of the spectrum or prefer high-proof grain-forward expressions straight from the farm, this lineup offered something for every rye enthusiast. All five bottles are available now or through their respective distillery channels, and every one of them makes a compelling case for keeping a rye or two on your shelf year-round. Check out our new site at: https://thebourbonroad.com