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A 15-year, 135-proof legend on the table with a harmonica legend in the chair—this one hits from the first clink. We invited our bandmate Marc to the studio and opened a 2023 George T. Stagg from the Buffalo Trace Antique Collection, then followed the whiskey wherever it led: into the heart of Chicago blues, the chaos of a second-row Zeppelin show in ’75, and the craft behind carrying a box of harmonicas in every key.

We start with the nose—char, leather, dark fruit, brown sugar—before tackling the palate’s big swing from spice to sweetness and that long, oily finish. Along the way we break down the Antique Collection’s fall releases, why these bottles drop before the holidays, and what makes this year’s addition of a bonded Colonel E.H. Taylor such a buzz. If you’ve ever wondered why “burnt” can taste great in bourbon, how mash bills shape sweetness without wheat, or how to enjoy high proof without nuking your taste buds, you’ll leave with practical tips you can use on your next pour.

Marc’s stories give the episode its backbone: Muddy Waters playing a high school gym, late nights at the Checkerboard Lounge, and the reminder that most classic rock owes a quiet debt to the blues. Our SIP rating (Shareable, Influence, Price) keeps us honest about scarcity and cost: Stagg earns big respect on influence, gets shared only with folks who can handle the proof, and remains a bargain at MSRP but a gulp on secondary. We end the night with a few harp notes, a nod to The Doors, and a toast to opening special bottles with the right people. If you enjoy high-proof bourbon, music lore, and straight talk on tasting, hit play, subscribe, and leave a quick review—what’s your favorite pour for cold-weather nights?

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A red phone booth with a secret code, a member-run whiskey sanctuary with thousands of bottles, and a high-wheat bourbon that turns into our new house pour—this one moves fast and lands where it counts. We kick off with Nashville’s speakeasy culture and the remarkable Whiskey House, a community hub that raises serious money for charity while reminding us why whiskey is best shared, not hoarded.

From there, we ride straight into release season. Eagle Rare 12 hits shelves earlier this month, King of Kentucky returns with an 8th edition that tests the limits of scarcity and value, and Buffalo Trace stirs the pot by slipping a surprise E.H. Taylor 15-year bonded into the Antique Collection lineup. We talk real-world availability, aftermarket chaos, and how to decide which bottles are worth chasing vs which ones are worth drinking.

Then we pour what we’re most excited about: Bardstown Bourbon Company’s Origin Series High-Wheat. At 106 proof and a mashbill of 53% corn, 39% wheat, and 8% malted barley, it’s a calm, confident sipper with an earthy-fruit nose, cherry and peach vibes, vanilla cream, and a caramel-toffee palate that finishes sweet with a gentle hug. No gimmicks, no stunt finishing—just a clear, delicious point of view at around $50. We explain why it shines in an old fashioned, how it stacks up against classic wheaters like Weller and Maker’s Mark, and why it earns the title “bourbon drinker’s bourbon.”

If you love whiskey talk that respects both the chase and the pour, you’ll feel right at home. Subscribe, share with a friend who loves a good value pick, and drop a comment with the bottle you’re hunting this season. Your house pour might be one listen away.

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A hiking-and-biking escape on Lake Superior collides with a neon-lit Vegas weekend—and it all funnels into a glass of Widow Jane Vaults 2024. We open with two very different trips that reveal how our tastes and habits have evolved: early mornings over late nights and a sportsbook booth that turns 50 screens into a day-long living room. That perspective sets up a timely shift into the fall whiskey calendar, where the shelves swell, rumors fly, and the chase begins: Buffalo Trace Antique Collection specs, Pappy drops, King of Kentucky whispers, and the finding time for Kentucky Bourbon Festival next year.

Then we roll up our sleeves for a focused pour. Widow Jane Vaults 2024 blends well-aged Kentucky, Indiana, and Tennessee bourbon and finishes it in Brazilian oak (amburana), clocking in at 99 proof with a premium $250 tag. We break down what an amburana wood cask brings—baking spice, liqueur-like sweetness, darker cocoa threads—and how that finish can dominate the experience. On the nose we find dried fruit and amaretto hints; on the palate a quick burst of caramelized sweetness gives way to a long, assertive spice and nuttiness. One of us loves the richness and length; the other wants more evolution at the end. Our verdict: a compelling pour for the curious, a cautious bottle buy unless wood-forward finishes are your thing.

Along the way, we trade practical tips for navigating release season, from spotting value on crowded shelves to deciding when to pay up for age and when to pass. If your heart lives with classic profiles from Heaven Hill, Wild Turkey, Maker’s Mark, or Old Forester, consider this a creative detour. If you chase distinctive finishes and limited series, this might be your fall splurge. Either way, we keep it honest, grounded, and fun—because the best part of whiskey is still who you share it with.

If you enjoyed the ride, follow the show, share it with a friend, and leave a quick review telling us your favorite fall release and whether you’d buy or just try the Widow Jane Vaults.

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Buried in the storied history of American whiskey lies an untold tale of innovation, mentorship, and the extraordinary impact of one man—Nearest Green. As the first African American master distiller in the United States, Green's legacy was nearly lost to time until the creation of Uncle Nearest Premium Whiskey.

In this episode, we crack open the Uncle Nearest Black Label Single Barrel, bottled at a robust 123 proof, and dive deep into the fascinating history behind the brand. The story unfolds like a historical drama—Jack Daniel, as a young orphan sent to work as a chore boy, meets Nearest Green, an enslaved man with profound knowledge of distillation. Green teaches Daniel a special charcoal filtering technique from West Africa that would eventually become known as the Lincoln County Process—the defining characteristic that separates Tennessee whiskey from bourbon.

As we sip this mahogany-colored spirit, we explore its grassy notes with hints of vanilla wafer sweetness and leathery undertones, discussing how the charcoal filtering affects the flavor profile. The whiskey delivers a quick heat that stays on the top of the mouth rather than giving that typical "Kentucky hug," leading to a grain-forward finish that sparked considerable debate about its overall balance and character.

Beyond the liquid in our glasses, we examine the meteoric rise of Uncle Nearest as a brand—from its founding in 2017 to winning hundreds of awards and expanding to all 50 states and 12 countries in just a few years. However, this rapid growth has led to recent financial troubles, with reports of a $108 million loan default threatening the company's future.

Whether you're fascinated by whiskey history, interested in supporting historically significant brands, or simply looking for your next premium bottle, join us for this enlightening conversation about a spirit that's more than just a drink—it's a long-overdue recognition of a pivotal figure in American whiskey heritage.

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Bourbon and pop music collide in this spirited exploration of Booker's Barry's Batch, where Mike and Tony find common ground as unlikely Megan Maroney concert-goers before diving into serious whiskey territory.

Named after former Jim Beam Chairman and CEO Berry Bearish, who led the company for over 40 years before his passing in 2024, this limited release bourbon comes "uncut and unfiltered" at a robust 125.7 proof. The guys break down what makes this particular expression worthy of its namesake while questioning whether the quarterly Booker's releases truly offer something different with each iteration.

With its signature mash bill of 77% corn, 13% rye, and 10% barley, Barry's Batch delivers the classic Beam profile – complete with notes of vanilla, caramel, and that distinctive "Beam peanut" finish that enthusiasts chase. Mike and Tony engage in a thoughtful debate about whether the subtle differences between releases justify the hunt for allocated bourbon, especially at the $100 price point.

The tasting reveals a powerful Kentucky hug – that characteristic warmth that spreads from mid-palate down through your body, bringing cinnamon spice alongside sweet butterscotch notes that linger long after each sip. While both hosts appreciate the complexity, they question whether Booker's limited release strategy creates artificial scarcity or genuinely preserves quality.

Whether you're a dedicated Beam fan or simply curious about premium bourbon expressions, this episode offers candid insights into the world of allocated whiskey. The final verdict? Worth trying if you appreciate high-proof, spicy bourbon with that signature Beam profile – but maybe sample it at a bar before committing to the full bottle price.

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When bourbon crosses borders, something magical happens. Four Roses Super Premium represents a fascinating cultural exchange—a Kentucky distillery crafting something uniquely positioned for Japanese palates. This rare expression, never officially distributed in America, reveals how whiskey adapts to different cultural preferences.

After uncorking this elusive bottle with Japanese lettering, we dive deep into Four Roses' remarkable production methods. Unlike most distilleries, Four Roses meticulously creates ten distinct bourbon recipes using two mash bills (high-corn "E" and high-rye "B") combined with five proprietary yeast strains. Each strain imparts specific characteristics—delicate fruit, rich fruit, spice, floral, or herbal notes—creating a flavor matrix that allows for precisely tailored bourbon expressions.

The Super Premium itself delivers an experience quite different from American bourbon expectations. At 86 proof, it offers gentle vanilla, subtle peach notes, and remarkable drinkability without the robust oak and high-proof heat Americans often seek. This lighter profile likely represents a deliberate adaptation for the Japanese market, where whisky traditions favor more delicate profiles. We speculate that its composition includes 80% eight-year and 20% ten-year bourbon, possibly blending all ten Four Roses recipes into a harmonious whole.

Beyond the whiskey itself, this tasting opens fascinating conversations about international spirits markets. Why do distilleries create market-specific expressions? How do tax structures influence proof points across borders? And most intriguingly—what can we learn about our own preferences by experiencing whiskey designed for different cultural palates?

Whether you're a bourbon enthusiast curious about international expressions or simply someone who appreciates the cultural dimensions of spirits, this exploration of Four Roses Super Premium offers a unique window into how a classic American spirit transforms when crafted with global sensibilities. Join us for this cross-cultural whiskey journey and expand your understanding of what bourbon can be.

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We are exploring Heaven Hill's newest offering in the celebrated Old Fitzgerald lineup—the 7-year Bottled in Bond expression that's making waves for its accessibility and exceptional quality.  As we crack open this stunning bottle, we trace the remarkable heritage of Old Fitzgerald from its 1870 origins serving rail lines and private clubs to its time under Pappy Van Winkle's stewardship as the famous "whisper of wheat." The story of how Heaven Hill acquired this treasured brand in 1999 sets the stage for understanding why today's release matters so much to bourbon lovers.

The tasting reveals a perfectly balanced wheated bourbon with a fruit-forward nose reminiscent of brown sugar-coated bananas that transitions to a palate dominated by baking spices, vanilla, and sweet bread notes. At 100 proof and seven years old, it challenges conventional wisdom about the necessity of extended aging, proving that masterful distilling and careful barrel selection can create exceptional bourbon at a younger age than many premium offerings.

What makes this release particularly exciting is its price point—typically around $60 at retail, significantly less than the coveted Decanter Series bottles that often command $125 or more. We debate whether the older expressions justify their premium and celebrate Heaven Hill's decision to make this a regular, twice-yearly release with distinctive green (spring) and gold (fall) labels.

Whether you're a seasoned bourbon collector or simply appreciate quality whiskey that won't break the bank, this episode offers valuable insights into one of the most anticipated new regular releases in the American whiskey landscape. As always, we're here to help you navigate the world of bourbon, because we believe what matters most isn't just what's in your glass—it's who you're sharing it with.

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Imagine a time when a Kentucky statesman would haul barrels of bourbon over the Appalachian Mountains to Washington DC, using America's native spirit to broker political deals. According to Congressman Andy Barr, Henry Clay's famous ability as "The Great Compromiser" had a secret ingredient: Kentucky whiskey that "lubricates the wheels of government."

This fascinating historical tidbit sets the stage for our spirited conversation with Representative Barr, who brings a special treat – Blanton's Gold Edition at 103 proof, a Congressional White Oak Caucus barrel selection. As we savor this exceptional bourbon with its honey, dried fruit, and lingering spice notes, Barr reveals the surprising intersection of bourbon and modern politics.

You'll discover two congressional caucuses you probably didn't know existed: the bipartisan Bourbon Caucus that advocates for the industry, and the White Oak Caucus working to ensure sustainable forestry for those all-important aging barrels. Barr explains how his Aged Distilled Spirits Competitiveness Act changed tax law to level the playing field for bourbon producers, and shares insights into international trade dynamics affecting Kentucky's signature export.

The conversation flows as smoothly as the bourbon itself as we explore India's potential as a massive new market for American whiskey, the "rum cover over" tax provision, and how European retaliation against bourbon exports affects multinational spirits companies. Throughout it all, Barr demonstrates that bourbon transcends political divisions – bringing together legislators from both parties who might disagree on policy but find common ground over a well-crafted pour.

Whether you're passionate about whiskey, curious about politics, or simply enjoy listening to genuine conversation, this episode captures the essence of bourbon's unique ability to create connections. As Buffalo Trace ambassador Freddie Johnson wisely notes, bourbon's magic isn't in collecting bottles but in creating memories through sharing – a philosophy that might just be the secret to better governance.

Listen now, and raise a glass to the spirit that not only warms the soul but occasionally manages to warm the cold halls of Congress too.

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The worlds of baseball and bourbon collide as Mike and Tony taste the limited-edition Remus Babe Ruth Reserve, a premium offering that blends America's pastime with craft distilling. This special release captures both the spirit of the Great Bambino and MGP's renowned high-rye expertise in a bottle that baseball fans and whiskey enthusiasts alike will appreciate.

What happens when one of baseball's greatest legends partners with a respected bourbon producer? The result is a meticulously crafted 111-proof bourbon that blends three different high-rye mash bills from 2016, 2017, and 2018. Each of the 10,624 bottles (one for each of Babe Ruth's career plate appearances) features a QR code revealing what happened during Ruth's corresponding at-bat—a level of attention to detail that elevates this beyond typical celebrity spirits.

The tasting reveals characteristic MGP nutty notes complemented by cinnamon, spice, and subtle fruit undertones. Despite initial skepticism about the $150 price point, they are pleasantly surprised by the quality. The conversation expands into broader trends in the bourbon industry, where countless new bottles and celebrity collaborations leave consumers wondering which releases prioritize quality over marketing.

Throughout the episode, Mike and Tony delve into the details that make this release special—from the baseball bat-shaped cork to the diamond-themed packaging—while honestly discussing whether the premium price over standard Remus offerings is justified by the collectible nature or the liquid inside. For baseball historians, Yankees fans, or anyone interested in the intersection of American cultural icons and craft spirits, this episode offers valuable insights into a unique bourbon experience.

Curious about how celebrity collaborations are changing the whiskey landscape? Want to know if limited editions like this are worth the investment? Listen now and discover whether the Remus Babe Ruth Reserve hits a home run or strikes out.

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What happens when you take 300-year-old French oak trees selected for Notre Dame Cathedral's restoration and turn them into bourbon barrels? Dan Calloway and Pete Marino of Bardstown Bourbon Company join us to reveal the remarkable story behind their Cathedral French Oak Barrel Finish - a whiskey that connects French architectural history with Kentucky distilling expertise.

"The cardinal sin we broke on barrel aging is you never really want to double barrel old bourbon because it'd be too dry, too tannic," explains Calloway. Yet this risk produced something extraordinary - a blend of Kentucky bourbons up to 19 years old, finished for 14 months in just six precious barrels made from the same oak chosen to repair one of the world's most iconic cathedrals.

The conversation goes deeper than just this special release. We explore Bardstown Bourbon Company's meteoric rise in the whiskey world, their philosophy of transparency and collaboration, and how they balance contract distillation with distinctive brand development. NFL legend Jared Allen even calls in to discuss the bourbon landscape and what makes Bardstown's approach unique.

Throughout our discussion, the themes of innovation and quality shine through. "The formula for our success is a combination of incredible people who are deeply passionate about what they do," Marino shares, "and we've got an ownership group and a leadership team that are not afraid to take chances and do crazy things." This mindset has propelled Bardstown from industry newcomer to respected innovator in just a decade.

We conclude with a comprehensive tasting of the Cathedral Oak itself, exploring its complex profile of the three classic Kentucky bourbon tasting notes with dark fruits and the perfect balance between wood influence and sweetness. For whiskey lovers seeking something truly special, this rare expression represents bourbon at its most innovative and historically significant.

Grab a glass and join us for this fascinating exploration of whiskey craftsmanship where French history meets Kentucky spirit!