By Richard Thomas Rating: B+ I first became acquainted with Cedar Ridge Malted Rye back in 2017, following a visit to the Iowa winery and distillery. That expression was the basis for what is their current Straight Rye. This is a 51% malted rye, 34% normal rye mash, with 12% corn and 3% malted barley …
Whiskey is a strong flavored alcoholic beverage made from various types of grain using the processes of malting, fermentation, distillation and long aging in oak casks. Barley, rye, wheat or maize may be used in the making of whisky. The strength ranges from 32 to 50 per cent, but some whiskies go as high as …
Caviar and fine spirits have long been symbols of luxury, but combining them thoughtfully can elevate a tasting experience into something truly unforgettable. While Champagne and white wine are classic companions to caviar, whiskey—particularly those with smooth, smoky, or subtly sweet profiles—is quickly gaining popularity among connoisseurs seeking bold, modern pairings. Understanding how to choose …
Michigan’s Round Barn Distillery has expanded its bourbon portfolio with two extraordinary new releases: Maple Bourbon and Port Barrel-Finished Bourbon. Building on the success of our Baroda Straight Bourbon, these expressions showcase our dedication to innovation while staying true to the craftsmanship that defines our spirits. Maple Bourbon – A rich and indulgent bourbon with …
Drinking and eating are both wonderful pleasures in life, especially when perfectly combined. Try these Scotch and food pairings for a fun and flavorful experience! “Food pairings” doesn’t just have to refer to choosing whether to enjoy a glass of white or red wine with a meal. The term can apply to any of your …
By Richard Thomas When Maker’s Mark released Maker’s 46, it was a major landmark for Kentucky bourbon. Since its inaugural release in 1953, the only product the Loretto, Kentucky company had ever sold was its flagship expression, Maker’s Mark itself. Five decades passed between Bill Samuels, Sr. starting the family business over again, famously burning …
West Fork Whiskey Co. is excited to announce the release of its Old Hamer 10 Year Bourbon, featuring a historically Hoosier mash bill of 99% corn, and 1% malted barley. Interestingly, with that mash bill the only thing making this a bourbon and not a corn whiskey is the new oak barrel in which the …
Heaven Hill marked a historic milestone yesterday with the first barrel filled at the new Heaven Hill Springs Distillery in Bardstown. Nearly three decades after a fire destroyed the original facility, the event celebrates the return of distilling to the Bourbon Capital of the World and ushers in a new era for Heaven Hill as …
By Richard Thomas Rating: A- The Non-Distiller Producer (NDP) called 15 Stars is a post-Pandemic foundation. Started in 2021 by a father and son team, Rick and Ricky Johnson, their first bottlings came out in late 2022. The Johnsons are a Columbus, Indiana family that is best known for their ownership of Black Jewell Popcorn, …
The Japan Spirits & Liqueurs Makers Association (JSLMA) has announced the adoption of a new logo to reinforce their “Standards for Labeling Japanese Whisky” (industry standards), established in February 2021. By having JSLMA members apply this logo to their products that comply with the industry standards, the association hopes to raise awareness of Japanese whisky …
