June, 2024 - BourbonSphere

In His Words: Angel’s Envy Master Distiller, Owen Martin

What’s different between what I do now versus what I did at Stranahan’s was operating mostly as a blender and finding complementary finishing casks. I really enjoyed that, but to come here was an opportunity to do that on a bigger playground.

Nearly two years ago, Owen Martin accepted the master distiller’s job at Louisville Distilling Co., home to Angel’s Envy Bourbon. In multiple conversations with him, he’s made clear that moving to Kentucky was “stepping up to the big leagues” of American distilling. In his six years making American single malt at Stranahan’s Whiskey Distillery in Denver, he learned a lot about blending and cask finishing, skills beneficial for the job in Louisville.

He'd been told the camaraderie among Kentucky distilleries was strong, but he said it’s exceeded all expectations. What’s also impressed him is the access to a wide range of high-quality, affordable finishing casks available through Bacardi, owner of Angel’s Envy. He views these casks as levers to create a variety of new and unique finished cask releases for the brand that started that trend in bourbon.

Following are his words about working in Kentucky and how Angel’s Envy’s first non-finished release, a Bottled-In-Bond, was created.

Home Cocktail Trend Still Strong, and I’m Part of the Problem

Despite being part of that shift, I’m still a little bothered as a former restaurant industry employee. It’s tough to know distant peers are struggling due to a shift in the new habits adopted by me and millions of other drinkers.

As awful as the Coronavirus pandemic was, it’s hard not to love some of the lifestyle changes it created. One I’m helping continue is making and drinking cocktails at home.

My wife and I always made cocktails for each other and our guests, but we, like so many cooped up in 2020, knuckled down to master drinks that required more care and effort than our favored classic three-ingredient concoctions. We spent money on amendments such as amari, bitters and liqueurs and made drinks for friends that, in a few cases, nudged them to up their home cocktail game. Liquor.com became a treasured resource back then.

Bardstown Hosting First Annual “NATIONAL BOURBON WEEK”, June 11 – 16, 2024

Big things are afoot in Bourbon Country!…The historic town of Bardstown, aka the Bourbon Capital of the World, in partnership with the Bourbon Capital Alliance is putting on the first ever annual National Bourbon Week, June 11-16, 2024. Taking place across acclaimed distilleries, famed attractions and Bardstown’s thriving downtown, this immersive series of events celebrates […]

The post Bardstown Hosting First Annual “NATIONAL BOURBON WEEK”, June 11 – 16, 2024 first appeared on The Bourbon Review.

Taking place across acclaimed distilleries, famed attractions and Bardstown’s thriving downtown, this immersive series of events celebrates the rich heritage and craftsmanship behind America’s native spirit. National Bourbon Week marks the beginning of an annual Bardstown tradition, inviting enthusiasts, connoisseurs and curious newcomers to enjoy tastings and festivities that pay homage to the iconic amber elixir.

The focal point of National Bourbon Week will be the unveiling of the highly anticipated 2024 Bardstown Collection, a rare collaboration between seven distinguished distilleries. With less than 500 bottles available from each distillery, the Collection promises to be an elite affair, marking it as the bourbon event of the year. The participating distilleries of the 2024 Bardstown Collection are: Bardstown Bourbon Company, Heaven Hill Distillery, James B. Beam Distilling Co., Limestone Branch Distillery, Log Still Distillery, Lux Row Distillers and Preservation Distillery + Farm.

“Limestone Branch is excited to be included in this year’s Bardstown Collection,” said Stephen Beam, Master Distiller of Limestone Branch Distillery, which is the newest addition to the Bardstown Collection. “Our family has been a part of the local distilling community since the 1800s, and we are honored to collaborate with our fellow distillers. Although we have a friendly competition with one another, our strength lies in our support of each other. It has never been so important to keep Kentucky bourbon as the gold standard, and collaborations like this ensure we will continue to lead the way.”

Throughout National Bourbon Week, attendees can partake in a range of festivities including special distillery events, curated tastings, unique bourbon education opportunities and the 21^st Annual Bourbon City Street Concert. This comprehensive series of experiences is crafted to offer bourbon enthusiasts an unparalleled immersion in the Bourbon Capital of the World.

“The inaugural National Bourbon Week will pay tribute to the legacy and craftsmanship that make bourbon an integral part of the Bardstown community,” said Sam Lacy, Executive Director of the Bourbon Capital Alliance. “We invite bourbon enthusiasts from near and far to join us in raising a glass to the rich history and vibrant future of America’s native spirit.”

About Bardstown: Located in the heart of the Bluegrass State, Bardstown offers the ultimate bourbon getaway. With 11 unique distilleries within 16 miles of court square, all your bourbon dreams can come true here in Bardstown, the Bourbon Capital of The World. Settled in 1780, Bardstown is Kentucky’s second-oldest city so come see us for our unrivaled history. Throughout Nelson County, there are more than 300 buildings on the National Register of Historic Places, with nearly 200 of them located in the historic downtown district. Here in Bardstown, you’ll find the friendly attitude and Southern charm that can only be found in such a town. For more information, go to www.VisitBardstown.com.

About the Bourbon Capital Alliance: Since its inception in 2017, the Bourbon Capital Alliance has worked to build new and exciting bourbon experiences, events and infrastructure, improve and add bourbon-centric visual cues to the Bardstown area, and expand upon the legacies and culture of bourbon in and around the Bourbon Capital of the World. For more information, go to www.BourbonCapital.org.

For the latest in Bourbon, visit www.thebourbonreview.com

The post Bardstown Hosting First Annual “NATIONAL BOURBON WEEK”, June 11 – 16, 2024 first appeared on The Bourbon Review.

Green River releases Full Proof Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey

As Green River Distilling Co. continues to expand its reach across the country, the brand will also expand its offerings this summer. Green River Full Proof Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey takes the brand’s flagship bourbon and presents it with full-bodied, full proof flavor.

Green River Full Proof is a blend of five-to-seven-year barrels selected from curated areas of Green River’s Owensboro tile warehouses and feature the same mash bill as Green River Kentucky Straight Bourbon. These original tile warehouses maintain both warm and cool temperatures, yielding unique proof variation and liquid maturation. The result is a pure expression offering a robust flavor profile which preserves the barrel character while bringing massive flavor to the palate.

Full Proof bottlings are custom blends of barrels selected from our favorite parts of the rickhouses and hand-selected for their quality.

The high rye percentage gives it a robust backbone of spice, sweetened and softened by corn and barley to produce. Full of warming spice, vanilla, caramel and chocolate-coated peppermints, Green River Full Proof offers aromatic notes of cinnamon, dried cherry and light leather. Deep golden amber in color, is weighty on the palate and closes with a lingering, rich mouthfeel.

“Full Proof bottlings are custom blends of barrels selected from our favorite parts of the rickhouses and hand selected for their quality. What I love about full proof expressions is that you are in control of the proof – taste at full-bodied strength and adjust to your preferences,” said Dan Callaway, VP of Product Development for Green River Distilling Co.

Presented at a variable batch-proof, the initial batch is bottled at 117.3 proof (58.65% ABV). This everyday product will be available for a suggested price of $49.99.

Full Proof joins Green River’s lauded profile of Bourbon, Wheated Bourbon, and Rye. Previously, full-proof single barrels were only available for purchase by the barrel.

Green River Distilling Co., located in Owensboro, Kentucky, will mark the launch with a special celebration on June 7, 2024, with bottle sales beginning at 9 a.m. Two specialty VIP tours (3 and 5 p.m.), led by Head Distiller Aaron Harris and National Brand Ambassador Caryn Wells, will give guests a behind-the-scenes look at Rickhouse B, a barrel strength tasting comparison and a bottle of Green River Full Proof to take home. From 4 - 6 p.m. the community is invited to the distillery for music, food and cocktails featuring the new release. Tours and tastings are available online at greenriverwhiskey.com.

Green River Distilling Co. was purchased by Bardstown Bourbon Company in July 2022. Last year the brand launched Green River Wheated and Full Proof Single Barrel, expanded both within the U.S. and began exporting to Australia. This year, eight new markets will see Green River on the shelves including Nevada, Arizona, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Washington, Pennsylvania, Minnesota, Massachusetts. Green River is expecting to achieve nationwide U.S. distribution in the coming years.

Whiskey Quickie: Town Branch Straight Rye Whiskey Review

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Town Branch Straight Rye Whiskey. This non-age stated rye whiskey is 100 proof […]

The post Whiskey Quickie: Town Branch Straight Rye Whiskey Review appeared first on BOURBON PURSUIT.

On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Town Branch Straight Rye Whiskey. This non-age stated rye whiskey is 100 proof and $55 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers!

DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly.

The post Whiskey Quickie: Town Branch Straight Rye Whiskey Review appeared first on BOURBON PURSUIT.

A short vertical tasting of four Clynelish including our 20000th

Secret Highland 11 yo 2010/2022 (55%, The Whisky Baron, Founder’s Collection, hogshead, cask #2499)Highland 19 yo 2003/2022 (57.3%, Chorlton Whisky, Marsala hogshead, 265 bottles)Clynelish 27 yo 1996/2023 (49.3%, Maltbarn, ‘The 26’, bourbon cask)Clynel…

Secret Highland 11 yo 2010/2022 (55%, The Whisky Baron, Founder's Collection, hogshead, cask #2499)
Highland 19 yo 2003/2022 (57.3%, Chorlton Whisky, Marsala hogshead, 265 bottles)
Clynelish 27 yo 1996/2023 (49.3%, Maltbarn, 'The 26', bourbon cask)
Clynelish 30 yo 1971/2002 (52.6%, The Coopers Choice, cask #2705, 252 bottles)

Green River Releases New Full Proof Bourbon Whiskey

Green River Full Proof Bourbon Whiskey review from BourbonBlog along with details on the new release at 117.3 proof, priced at $49.99. From Owensboro, Kentucky’s Green River Distilling Co. Full Proof is a blend of 5 to 7-year-old bourbons with a high rye mash bill.

The post Green River Releases New Full Proof Bourbon Whiskey first appeared on BourbonBlog.

This is a win for bourbon enthusiasts: a barrel-strength Kentucky bourbon at $49.99! Yes, we’ve tasted it at BourbonBlog.com, and we knowit will continue to find its way into the bars of many fans as Green River Distilling Co. expands its reach. Keep reading for our review below along with updates on their expansion to new markets.

Green River Distilling Co. of Owensboro, Kentucky, is releasing Green River Full Proof Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, expanding their portfolio this summer. Also known for their Single Barrel Full Proof offering, this Full Proof Bourbon is a new release and blend of 5 to 7-year-old bourbons.

This bourbon takes the brand’s flagship bourbon and presents it with full-bodied, full-proof flavor. Presented at a variable batch-proof, the initial batch is bottled at 117.3 proof (58.65% ABV).

It will be available for an extremely fair price of $49.99.

Full Proof joins Green River’s portfolio including Bourbon, Wheated Bourbon, and Rye Whiskeys.

Green River Full Proof Bourbon at a Glance:

Barrel Proof Green River Bourbon Whiskey

Age: A blend of five to seven-year barrels selected from curated areas of Green River’s Owensboro warehouses.

Mash bill: The same as Green River Kentucky Straight Bourbon.

70% Corn

21% Rye

9% Malted Barley

Proof: Variable, the initial batch is 117.3 proof / 58.6 ABV

MSRP: $49.99

Green River Full Proof Bourbon Review

As mentioned, we’ve tasted it at BourbonBlog.com.

The flavor and proof you’ll get for this price point are impressive: serious caramels, chocolate raspberry truffles, warming spice, and vanilla. Layers of toasted oak, and tobacco complement the lingering, rich mouthfeel.

When proofed down, it reveals herbal tones and a hint of peppermint.

Additionally, there are touches of cappuccino foam with cinnamon, adding another element of complexity.

It drinks slightly older than the 5 to 7-year-old Bourbons that are within.

Launch Celebration and More

Previously, full proof single barrels were only available for purchase by the barrel. Green River Distilling Co., located in Owensboro, Kentucky, will mark the launch with a special celebration on June 7, 2024, with bottle sales beginning at 9 a.m.

Two specialty VIP tours (3 and 5 p.m.), led by Head Distiller Aaron Harris and National Brand Ambassador Caryn Wells, will give guests a behind-the-scenes look at Rickhouse B, a barrel strength experience.

Visit GreenRiverWhiskey.com to book tours.

Green River’s Legacy and Expansion to New Markets

Green River Distilling Co., known as “the Whiskey Without Regrets,” honors its rich history dating back to 1885. As the 10th oldest licensed distillery in Kentucky (DSP-KY-10), it was reintroduced in 2022 and is proudly located in Owensboro, Kentucky. The distillery was purchased by Bardstown Bourbon Company in July 2022.

Last year, Green River launched its Wheated and Full Proof Single Barrel bourbons, expanding within the U.S. and exporting to Australia.

In 2024, Green River will be available in eight new markets: Nevada, Arizona, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Washington, Pennsylvania, Minnesota, and Massachusetts.

The brand tells us aiming for nationwide U.S. distribution in the coming years.

To be the first to learn about new Bourbon releases, sign up for our newsletter on this link.

The post Green River Releases New Full Proof Bourbon Whiskey first appeared on BourbonBlog.

Smooth Ambler Old Scout 7 Bourbon Whiskey Returns

Smooth Ambler’s Old Scout 7 Year Old Bourbon Whiskey is back after a hiatus. Discover this high-rye, 99 proof bourbon, aged for 7 years and embraced for its robust flavor. Available now for $64.99 a bottle. All bourbons are sourced and brought together at their distillery based in Maxwelton, West Virginia. Smooth Ambler Founder John Little tells us more.

The post Smooth Ambler Old Scout 7 Bourbon Whiskey Returns first appeared on BourbonBlog.

After a hiatus, Smooth Ambler’s Old Scout 7 has returned to shelves, featuring the rich tradition of a high-rye bourbon aged 7 years and bottled at 99 proof.

Bourbon enthusiasts can once again enjoy this Bourbon, now available at $64.99 for a 750mL bottle

The Tradition of Transparency

John Little Smooth Ambler
When Smooth Ambler’s founder, John Little, first started “scouting” for whiskey in 2011, he searched for whiskey worthy to bring back home to the rolling hills of West Virginia where he could blend and bottle. As a result, Old Scout became the standard for sourcing whiskey by being transparent about bottling delicious whiskies from around the US and sharing it widely.

That is exactly what led to the legendary Old Scout 7.

Smooth Ambler tells us that transparently sourcing whiskey was, and still is, such an important part of their foundation. “And, as it turns out, quite a few folks liked what we were doing with Old Scout. Today, we are proud to keep the practice going and bring back the legendary Old Scout 7, a high-rye mashbill bottled at 99 proof,”John Little tells us.

The Bourbon and Availability

Old Scout 7 features a mash bill of 60% corn, 36% rye, and 4% malted barley, delivering a flavor profile of sweet and spicy notes complemented by undercurrents of apple, leather, and cherry pipe tobacco. It is best enjoyed neat to fully appreciate its craftsmanship, though it also excels in cocktails.
Now available in select states including CA, CO, DC, FL, GA, IL, IN, LA, MD,MI, NC, NE, NJ, NY, OH, PA, SC, TN, TX, WI, and WV.

The post Smooth Ambler Old Scout 7 Bourbon Whiskey Returns first appeared on BourbonBlog.

Weller Millennium: The $7,500 Rare Release Is Not Bourbon, So What Is It?

While other rare Weller bourbons have fetched serious prices on the secondary market and at liquor stores after significant markups beyond MSRP, Weller Millennium sets a new benchmark with an MSRP of $7,500, making it the highest-priced Weller whiskey ever released by Buffalo Trace. However, Weller Millennium technically isn’t classified as a bourbon. Weller Millennium… Read more »

The post Weller Millennium: The $7,500 Rare Release Is Not Bourbon, So What Is It? first appeared on BourbonBlog.

However, Weller Millennium technically isn’t classified as a bourbon.

Weller Millennium is expected to be released in extremely limited quantities, with only hundreds of bottles available worldwide.

Previous Weller releases, like the William Larue Weller from the Buffalo Trace Antique Collection, had an MSRP of $125 but have sold for $1,500 to $3,000 or more on the secondary market (or even from retailers marking them up). Similarly, Weller C.Y.P.B., initially priced around $50, can fetch up to $1,300 due to its limited availability and high demand.

The Daniel Weller Emmer Wheat, with an MSRP of $500, has been seen on the secondary market for up to $3,000. These prices are based on our own observations after searching for what they are being sold for on the web as of Spring of 2024.

With the popularity of Weller bourbons increasing over the years, we at BourbonBlog.com are curious: what is the highest price you’ve ever seen for a pour or bottle? Tell us in the comments below!

Why Millennium is Not a Bourbon

No one said rare and expensive American whiskeys had to be a Bourbon.

Weller Millennium is a blend of wheat bourbon and wheat whiskeys, which includes 51% wheat in its mash bill.

This composition means it doesn’t meet the legal definition of bourbon, which requires at least 51% corn in the mash bill. This unique blend highlights the distillery’s commitment to exploring the aging potential of wheat.

Millennium Weller Bourbon Whiskey Buffalo Trace

About Weller Millennium Whiskey

This well-aged wheat whiskey is a unique blend of vintage straight wheated bourbon and wheat whiskeys, classified as a blend of straight whiskeys, with the youngest whiskey being from 2006 at 18 years old, and the oldest from 2000 at 24 years old, and bottled at 99 proof, according to Buffalo Trace’s statement

Encased in a 750ml handcrafted crystal decanter with a custom-made crystal topper hand-etched with W.L. Weller’s original “W” stamp of quality, Weller Millennium represents the pinnacle of luxury and craftsmanship.

Buffalo Trace Distillery tells BourbonBlog.com the emphasized the distinctiveness of this release, noting that it showcases the extraordinary aging potential of wheat.

Tasting Notes

According to the distillery, Weller Millennium reveals rich caramel and toffee notes on the nose, indicative of prolonged interaction with oak barrels. Layers of depth and complexity from years of maturation are evident, with hints of dried fruits like figs or raisins, and a touch of stone fruit.

The palate offers sweet caramel flavors, finishing with a prominent oak influence, subtle dryness, and a lingering sense of refinement.

For more Bourbon news, sign up for our newsletter on BourbonBlog.com/signup.

The post Weller Millennium: The $7,500 Rare Release Is Not Bourbon, So What Is It? first appeared on BourbonBlog.

Wild Turkey’s Triumph (Part 1)

Back in 2018, I published “The New Golden Age of Wild Turkey (and Why You Should be Paying Attention).” In that post I looked back on the history of the brand, divided it into eras, and concluded by speculating on its future. As I was reading it over r…

The post Wild Turkey’s Triumph (Part 1) appeared first on Rare Bird 101.