Dad Dimes

Welcome back to DadDimes on the Rocks!

Here’s the DadDimes style review of 2XO (“Two Times Oak”) by Dixon Dedman:

🎯 The Concept & Backstory

2XO stands for “Two Times Oak”—a blending/finishing concept where oak is added twice (or the spirit is re-exposed to fresh oak) without fully rebarreling. The whiskey never truly leaves its original barrel—instead, charred oak blocks or “chains” are inserted to increase oak contact. 

The bourbon is sourced (not made entirely in-house). The blend for 2XO’s core expression combines at least two distinct bourbon mash bills: one with a high rye (≈ 35%) character, and another more moderate rye (≈ 16–18%) mash bill. 

The brand is ambitious, with multiple small batches (Icon Series, Oak Series, etc.) planned under the 2XO umbrella. 

Price points vary—premium releases (~$100) for limited batches, and more “everyday” versions intended at lower MSRPs. 

🥃 Tasting Notes & Impressions

Nose

• The aroma often starts with oak and char pretty strong—charred wood, toasted oak, and barrel funk. 
• Underneath, there are sweeter notes: vanilla, caramel, mild chocolate, red fruit, citrus zest, and sometimes floral or herbal touches. 
• Some reviews note a medicinal undertone or “mossy” edge along with oak. 
  

Palate

• A mix of dark and light fruits—plum, cherry, berries—even orange or grapefruit in certain batches. 
• Sweetness from caramel, chocolate, toffee; oak tannin and leather or barrel char push through. 
• In some batches it can feel hot or aggressive—some pepper spice or astringency glimpses, especially early sips. 
• Mouthfeel tends to be somewhat oily and medium to full, but not ultra-dense. 

Finish

• The finish carries oak, lingering spices (cinnamon, pepper), and a sweetness that morphs into more char, dark chocolate, and sometimes tobacco or cedar. 
• It can fade a bit faster than expected for a “double oak” concept; some batches show a drop in complexity later in the finish. 

👍 Strengths & ⚠️ Caveats

Strengths:

• A bold experiment in oak finishing that stands out—there is no “typical” 2XO pour.
• In many batches, you’ll find flavors you might not expect—dark fruit, complex oak, interplay of char & sweetness.

• For fans who enjoy “big oak” bourbons or finishing techniques, it’s an interesting portfolio piece.

Caveats / Critiques:

• Because of its strong oak influence, some batches can feel over-oaked, overshadowing subtler flavors.
• In certain releases, the finish and mid-palate can feel disjointed or diminished—the oak may dominate more than integration.
• At premium prices (e.g. ~$100), expectations are high—some drinkers feel certain batches don’t fully deliver in complexity or balance. 
• Variation between batches is real—some 2XO expressions (e.g. “American Oak”) are more approachable, others more aggressive; not all taste equally refined.

🎯 Who It’s For

• Those who enjoy oak-forward or char-forward bourbons and don’t mind robust wood intensity.
• Bourbon drinkers curious about finishing methods—2XO offers something different from standard aging.
• Collectors and enthusiasts tracking new craft or boutique labels who like to compare batches.
• Less ideal for drinkers seeking soft, subtle bourbons or delicate fruit-forward profiles without oak aggression.

⭐ Final Verdict (DadDimes Style)

2XO by Dixon Dedman is a daring, oak-heavy experiment that succeeds more often than not in delivering a memorable whiskey. It has flaws—some finishes feel uneven, oak can dominate—but it also delivers bursts of character and boldness you don’t often see, especially in sourced blends. I’d give it about 3.8 / 5.

If you see a 2XO bottle in your liquor shop, it’s worth grabbing one. But sip carefully. Let it breathe. Add a drop of water to open it up. It’s not for everyone—but for those who enjoy riding the wood edge, it can be fun, challenging, and unexpected.

That’s the review for 2XO “Two Times Oak”. Until next time, may your pours surprise you—and your bar cart evolve. Cheers! 🥃

Here’s the DadDimes style review of Leopold Bros. American Small Batch Whiskey:

🎯 The Basics

• Distillery: Leopold Bros., Denver, Colorado 
• Proof: 86 (43% ABV) 
• Mash bill: ~ 65% corn, ~ 15–20% malted barley, ~ 15% rye (varies slightly depending on source) 
• Aging: Young (≈ 2 years in barrel) or “no/low” age statement—so it’s not a “straight bourbon” if strictly defined 
• Price: Roughly $35-$45 in many markets 

🥃 Tasting Notes

Nose

• Sweet corn and graham cracker up front, with vanilla and mild toffee. 
• Fruit notes like green apple or pear, berries in very light touch. 
• Some earthy and vegetal tones; malted barley adds a floral or grassy nuance. 

Palate

• Light and soft: more sweetness (corn, some brown sugar) with baking spice. 
• Mild rye bite; not spicy but adds structure. 
• Oak influence is subtle—because of youth, you notice barrel flavor lightly rather than heavy char. 

Finish

• Finish is gentle, smooth, and clean. Not long, not harsh. Vanillas and gentle spice linger. 
• Some find it fades a little too quickly; others appreciate the mildness. 

✅ What Works, What Doesn’t

Strengths

• Very drinkable, even for those who shy away from high proof or heavily oaked bourbons.
• Unique grain handling: malted barley in house, open fermentation (copper pot stills), colder fermentation temps etc.—options that give it character. 
• Good price-to-experience ratio: you get craft, attention to detail, and flavor without needing top shelf money.

Weaknesses

• Youth shows: the oak is light, the edges are a bit raw. Those wanting barrel-dominant or age richness may find this understated.
• Proof is mild; some may want more bite.
• Finish could be more memorable; it doesn’t leave a lasting complexity compared to older or more robust bourbons.

👀 Who This Is For

• Whiskey drinkers who prefer smoother, gentler bourbon with character, not big punch.
• Folks interested in craft, terroir, and distillery identity—if you care about how the whiskey was made (grains, fermentation style, etc.), this is rewarding.
• Great as an all-purpose sipper or for mixing in lighter cocktails where you still want some nuance.

💵 Final Thoughts & Rating

Leopold Bros. American Small Batch is not pushing you to the extremes—it’s not ultra-aged or barrel-strength, but what it sets out to do, it does fairly well. It showcases craft whiskey in a gentler light.

If I were giving it a score in DadDimes terms: 3.5 / 5. Solid, interesting, and enjoyable—but not likely to blow off the roof. Worth picking up, especially if it’s near MSRP and you want something craft with charm.

That’s our pour for Leopold Bros. American Small Batch Whiskey. If you try it, give it some time in the glass—it’s one of those whiskeys that opens up with patience. Cheers! 🥃

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🎙️ DadDimes on the Rocks — Episode: “Elijah Craig Barrel Proof Bourbon: Full-Throttle Flavor, Zero Compromise”

Today we’re tearing into a bourbon that demands respect the moment you pop the cork: Elijah Craig Barrel Proof(ECBP). Uncut, unfiltered, and bottled right around barrel strength, this line is Heaven Hill’s answer for folks who want bourbon that hits hard and rewards attention to detail. Let’s jump in with our Special Guest, Rob Martin.

🏭 Background & Specs

• Distillery / Producer: Heaven Hill, Kentucky
• Mash Bill: 78% corn, 12% malted barley, 10% rye 
• Release Schedule: Typically three times a year (Jan, May, Sept) with each batch carrying its own proof and age statement (or “minimum age” disclosure since 2023) 
• Proof Range: Varies by batch, often between ~120 to ~140 proof (60–70+% ABV) depending on barrel, batch, etc. 
• Age: Many batches historically had a 12-year age statement; recent ones sometimes a bit younger (or using “at least X years”) depending on available stock. 

👃 Nose & First Impressions

• Right off the bat, you get powerful alcohol vapor—a clear signal that this isn’t casual sipping. 
• Underneath the heat: rich vanilla, caramel, sweet brown sugar, toasted oak, and dark fruit (cherry, raisin) with spicy backnotes of pepper, sometimes leather or tobacco. 
• The nose can be intense, but many reviewers note that after letting it breathe a bit (or adding a drop of water), those high-proof edges mellow, allowing more nuance to show. 

👅 Palate & Flavor Profile

• It delivers big on flavor: oak char, caramel, molasses, dark chocolate, spicy rye in many batches, with fruit undertones (cherry, dried stone fruit) appearing mid-palate. 
• The texture is thick, oily, and bold—mouth-coating but not unpleasantly overbearing. The high proof is very present, especially early on. 
• Water (just a few drops) opens up layers: citrus, perhaps tobacco or leather, extra caramel sweetness, and softens the burning entry a bit. 

🔥 Finish

• Long and warming. The wood and char linger, along with spice (black pepper, cinnamon, sometimes chili-like) and a bitter-sweet fade of chocolate or oak tannins. 
• There's often a dry, somewhat “dusty” or “earthy” note at the end, especially with higher-proof batches. Not unpleasant—adds character. 

👍 What Works & What Might Not

Pros:

• Intense, bold, and flavorful — great for folks who want bourbon that demands attention.
• Excellent value for what you’re getting in terms of proof and complexity (retail often around ~$70-80 depending on batch). 
• Versatile: Neat if you want the full-force experience; water or a large ice cube to tame edges; good in robust cocktails (though many purists recommend it solo so you don’t lose subtlety).

Cons:

• Hot and intense. If you’re sensitive to alcohol burn, this might be a bit much on early sips.
• Oak forward. Some batches skew very woody/tannic, which can overshadow more delicate flavors.
• Variation between batches—proof, age, flavor profile can change enough that one batch may hit differently than another. So batch selection matters.

🥇 Overall Rating & Who It’s Best For

DadDimes Rating: 4.5 / 5

This is one of the strongest bourbons I come back to again and again. When it hits its stride (after some breathing or water), it offers a complex, rewarding ride that many other bourbons simply don’t.

Ideal For:

• Experienced bourbon drinkers who appreciate big proof and bold flavor.
• Collectors or fans who follow and compare batches.
• Anyone wanting a dramatic drinking experience—after dinner, by a fire, with good company.

If you’re newer to bourbon, this may be more than you want on a regular basis, but even then it’s worth trying a pour to understand just how far bourbon can go in power and flavor.

That’s the lowdown on Elijah Craig Barrel Proof. If you get your hands on a bottle, take your time with it—you’ll be rewarded. Until next time, keep your glass full and your standards high. Cheers! 🥃

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Welcome back to DadDimes on the Rocks! Today, we’re pulling something outdoorsy out of the barrel: Boone and Crockett Club Straight Bourbon Whiskey. Inspired by the legacy of conservation and created for sportsmen, this bourbon is as rugged as it is smooth. Let’s see how it stands up in the wild.

The Story Behind the Bottle

• What It Is: A Kentucky straight bourbon, matured for two years and bottled at 86 proof (43% ABV)—crafted to honor the Boone and Crockett Club, founded by Theodore Roosevelt in 1887, the pioneering conservation organization. 
• It's marketed as the perfect pour to enjoy after a day spent in nature—whether that means on the river, in the woods, or beside the campfire. 

Tasting Notes & Experience

Appearance & Texture
Medium to dark amber, with a silky, smooth mouthfeel that sets a gentle tone right away. 

Nose
Subtle and earthy, featuring notes of marzipan and tea with a whisper of vanilla oak. The overall aroma is refined, evoking a sense of calm after a long day hiking or hunting. 

Palate
Balanced flavors of warm spice and vanilla-infused oak, with a soft core of sweetness. The bourbon’s profile remains approachable without being too bold—ideal for sipping and sharing stories around the fire.

Finish
Distinctively, this bourbon closes with a “smokey campfire finish”, channeling that cozy, outdoor vibe. It lingers in a gentle, comforting way. 

Overall Feel

Boone and Crockett Club Bourbon is a tribute to nature, perfect for after-activity moments rather than high-intensity tastings. It prioritizes smoothness, consistency, and atmosphere over flash. At the price point (~$40), it’s both accessible and thematic—great for gifting or keeping on hand for casual sipping. 

Final Verdict

Rating: 3.5 / 5

Strengths

Caveats

Smooth, easy-going flavor

Two-year age may feel light for bourbon enthusiasts

Cozy, campfire-style finish

Lower proof limits the complexity

Strong, meaningful brand story

Not a bold or adventurous profile

If you’re looking for a bourbon that carries more than just flavor—one with soul, purpose, and a nod to conservation—this bottle delivers. It’s not a heavyweight champ, but it’s a reliable friend after a long trail or a hard day’s hunt.

That’s our pour for Boone and Crockett Club Bourbon. Sip slowly, respect the land, and keep that adventurous spirit unbroken. Cheers!

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Welcome back to DadDimes on the Rocks! On today’s show, we’re reviewing Five Trail “Unbroken Spirit” Blended American Whiskey—a bold new entry by Coors Whiskey Co. that leans into collaboration, history, and provenance.  We have a special guest tonight, Ty Lord.

The Backstory

• Producer: Coors Whiskey Co. (yes, the Coors beer folks) in partnership with Bardstown Bourbon Co.
• Blend Composition: Includes a Colorado single malt and several sourced bourbons from Kentucky and Indiana
• ABV: ~47.5% (~95 proof) in many bottlings 
• Positioned as an “ultra-premium” offering with a focus on craftsmanship and a heritage narrative 

Tasting Notes

Nose
Rich and layered: imagine cinnamon babka, graham cracker, coffee cake, and orange peel—a sweet but aromatic opening. 

Palate
The sip brings a balanced sweetness with notes of chocolate-covered strawberries, dulce de leche, vanilla bean, and hints of orange and almond. Opens up nicely without being overly aggressive.

Finish
You get cooked fruit, more chocolate, a touch of pear, and a well-woven, substantial body and depth. 

Overall Impression

Strengths

• Flavor complexity & depth: This isn’t a stripped-down blend—there’s effort in the sourcing and layering. 
• Bold aromatic and fruity profile: The nose and palate are interesting and sometimes surprising. 
• High proof: Packs a punch and delivers boldness. 

Potential Weaknesses

• Price vs. expectation: At the premium price tier, some drinkers expected more nuance or consistency. 
• Cohesion: With multiple source whiskeys, the blend sometimes struggles to find a single voice—though some batches are better than others. 

Who Should Try It?

• Flavor explorers: If you enjoy trying blends and appreciate a bold, layered profile, this is a worthwhile experiment.
• Cocktail lovers: It holds up well in an Old Fashioned or Neat pour if you want something with body and character.

Final Verdict

Pros:

• Intriguing nose and depth of flavor
• Solid proof and body

Cons:

• Some variability in batch experiences
• Slight question over price justification

Recommendation:
If you find Five Trail Unbroken Spirit at a fair price (~$55–70), it's worth a pour, especially for those who enjoy bold blends and complexity. It might not become a shelf staple, but it’s a compelling conversation piece and a creative expression in American whiskey.

That’s a wrap for this episode of DadDimes on the Rocks. Sip steady and savor the unbroken spirit. Cheers!

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Welcome back to DadDimes on the Rocks! Today we’re crossing into Scotch territory with Buchanan’s Master Blended Scotch Whisky. Let’s see if the blend lives up to the name.

The Backstory

• Type: Blended Scotch Whisky at 40% ABV (80 proof) 
• Producer: Owned by Diageo; a premium blend pulled from mature casks by their Master Blender 
• Has earned Double Gold at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition (2021)

Tasting Notes

Nose:
Expect fruity sweetness—think apples, pears, citrus zest, honey, and baking spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. There’s a subtle oak presence and a bit of depth. 

Palate:
It’s medium-bodied and smooth, with a malty backbone, dried fruit (raisins, figs), caramel, vanilla, and toasted nuts. A touch of cinnamon and black pepper adds warmth and a little bite. 

Finish:
Moderately long and smooth—the sweetness fades into gentle oak dryness, spice, and lingering toffee-like notes. 

Overall Impression

Strengths:

• Approachable and cocktail-friendly, with enough sweetness and spice to stand neat or work well in a mix. 
• Well-blended—offers a decent balance of fruit and spice. Could be a solid entry-level Scotch option. 
• Recognized in competitions—a blend with some accolades. 

Potential Drawbacks:

• Some reviewers note it can feel thin in structure, with occasional disjointed edges. 
• Not a single malt—if you're after high complexity or heavy oak, this might not deliver the depth you’re seeking.

DadDimes Rating

• Approachability (neat or cocktails): ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
• Complexity: ⭐⭐⭐☆
• Value vs Expectation: ⭐⭐⭐☆

Final Verdict:

Buchanan’s Master is a smooth, accessible blended Scotch with fruity, spicy, and malty characteristics. It works nicely in a mixed drink or as an easy sipping dram. It may not challenge the top shelf, but for its category, it delivers solid flavor and versatility.

That’s our take—cheers, and we’ll catch you next time on DadDimes on the Rocks.

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DadDimes on the Rocks – Episode: "Eagle Rare 12-Year Bourbon: A Majestic New Chapter"

Welcome back, whiskey aficionados! Today, we’re taking a close look at a highly anticipated addition to the Eagle Rare lineup: Eagle Rare 12-Year Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey with our special guest Chris Averett.  Sit tight—this one’s bold, nuanced, and might just become your new staple.

The Eagle Rare Legacy, Elevated

Eagle Rare has long been a respected name in the bourbon world. Originally a 10-year, 90-proof expression, it's made its mark with its consistency and rich character sourced from Buffalo Trace’s Mash Bill No. 

1. As of 2025, a longer-aged, stronger companion has emerged: the Eagle Rare 12-Year, bottled at 95 proof (47.5% ABV), now a permanent part of the lineup. Its launch signifies Buffalo Trace’s renewed commitment to age-stated, quality bourbons.

Tasting Notes & What Makes It Stand Out

According to the distillery, Eagle Rare 12 opens with a sweet, oaky aroma and delicate hints of almond, followed by a palate of vanilla and toasted oak, culminating in a rich, toffee-forward finish.

Expert reviewers describe it as having:

• Nose: Rich layers of dried cherry, leather, dark caramel, vanilla bean, tobacco leaf, and a warm baking-spice note.
• Palate: Full-bodied and smooth, with flavors of brown sugar, charred oak, ripe dark fruit, leading into mid-palate notes of cinnamon, nutmeg, and dark chocolate.
• Finish: Long and lingering—oak tannins, sweet vanilla, and a faint, lingering smokiness, with seasonal touches like pepper and honeyed citrus adding intrigue.

How It Compares to Eagle Rare 10

Reddit tastings suggest that Eagle Rare 12 reduces the youthful edge of the 10-year, turning up depth and complexity by “one or two notches.” While differences are subtle, fans note an improved layering of cherry, vanilla, and oak.

One reviewer even likened it favorably to Weller 12 in nose structure, citing flan-like caramel, dark fruit compote, and baking spices. The finish is longer and more refined.

Who Is It For?

• Fans of the classic Eagle Rare profile seeking more maturity, nuance, and proof.
• Perfect for neat sipping, but versatile enough to elevate a cocktail like an Old Fashioned, thanks to its balanced flavor profile.
  

Final Thoughts & Rating

Eagle Rare 12-Year Bourbon builds on a beloved classic with longer aging and subtle proof adjustment, offering a richer, more nuanced experience without losing the elegant balance Eagle Rare fans know and love.

Rating: ⭐ 4.5 / 5

• Strengths: Silky smooth, balanced, deep flavor layering, and an undeniably accessible price point (~$49.99 MSRP).
• Limitations: Depending on availability, snagging it at MSRP may be a challenge.

That’s our pour for today! Eagle Rare 12 is proof that with patience and quality craftsmanship, even a classic can evolve beautifully. Whether you're a long-time fan or looking for a premium bourbon addition, this one deserves a spot in your glass. Cheers!

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Welcome back to DadDimes on the Rocks! Today, we’re delving into something a bit unconventional and bold: Von Payne Black Blended Whiskey, a dark and daring expression that stands out for its striking visuals as much as its flavor.

The Story Behind the Bottle

• Producer: Von Payne Spirits, founded by Steve Allen in Clearwater, Florida.
• Expression: A blended American whiskey infused with natural black currant, offering a vivid ruby-red hue.
• Specs: Bottled at 90 proof (45% ABV), NAS, and commonly priced between $60–80 depending on the retailer.

Tasting Notes

Nose

• A mix of bold currant berry, brown sugar, with delicate oak and cinnamon resting in the background.

Palate

• Vibrant, earthy berry flavors, slightly tart yet amiably sweet, wrapped in subtle oak tones. Smooth, silky texture with a warming 90 proof finish.

Finish

• Medium-bodied and clean. Leaves a lingering finish of berry warmth, light oak, and cinnamon spice.

What the People Are Saying

• Some whiskey lovers praise it simply: “The taste is as good as the bottle design.” Priced at $53, one Redditor compared it favorably next to far more expensive whiskeys.
• Others recommend it on the rocks: “Really enjoy it diluted on the rocks,” while noting the pricing may not feel justifiable if you're already familiar with standard whiskey profiles.

Who Should Try It?

• Visual enthusiasts: The deep red color and gargoyle pour spout make it a display-worthy bottle.
• Adventurous palates: Ideal for those who gravitate toward fruit-forward or sweet-leaning whiskies.
• Cocktail creatives: Great for adding berry notes to cocktails or serving over ice for a unique twist.

Final Verdict

Von Payne Black Blended Whiskey is a standout blend that prioritizes bold flavor and visual flair. It’s not trying to be your everyday whiskey—it’s a flavor experiment in a bottle.

• If you’re intrigued by unique expressions and stylish packaging, this pour will definitely deliver.
• If you're a purist seeking traditional bourbon depth or complexity, it may not fit your drinking style.

Rating: ⭐ 3.5/5 – A vivid, berry-rich, smooth whiskey for experimentation. Excellent for novelty and cocktails—but not your classic sipper.

That’s our take on Von Payne Black. Keep pushing boundaries, exploring flavor, and most importantly—keep that glass full. Cheers!

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Welcome back to DadDimes on the Rocks! Today, we’re diving into something truly adventurous: Penelope Rio Straight Bourbon Whiskey (Batch 4, 2025 release) with our special guest, London Riley and John Murray. It’s a unique, double‑finished bourbon that blends sweet complexity with Brazilian flair—expect honey, spice, and more.

🥃 Backstory & Concept

Penelope’s “Rio” is part of their Cooper Series, created by MGP (Ross & Squibb Distillery). Each batch undergoes a two-stage finish: first in honey barrels (1–3 weeks), then finished in Brazilian Amburana oak (about one week), bringing an intriguing mix of flavors to their base four-grain bourbon (74% corn, 16% wheat, 7% rye, 3% barley).

Batch 4 was released in March 2025, bottled at 98 proof, and priced around $80 MSRP—a bit lighter on honey notes and better balanced than previous batches.

👃 Aroma

The nose opens with honeycomb, cinnamon frosting, butterscotch, and caramel corn, layered over delicate hints of marshmallow and toasted oak.

👄 Palate

Upfront sweetness hits you with Honey Smacks cereal, cornbread, and snickerdoodle. Mid-palate adds white pepper for spice and balance. The honey is prominent but not cloying, and oak spice anchors the sweetness.

🔥 Finish

The finish unravels more cinnamon and toasted oak, followed by notes of brittle, burnt sugar, and a final touch of rye spice—warm and lingering without dominating the palate.

🗣️ Community Feedback

Some earlier releases divided drinkers—reviews from Reddit called it “obnoxiously sweet” and overly honey-driven, with little bourbon character remaining. But Batch 4 has received praise for dialing in the balance between honey and Amburana, offering nuance and smoother integration.

🎯 Who Should Sip It?

• Sweet—but refined—finish fans
• Those curious about unusual finishing techniques (honey + Amburana)
• Bourbon drinkers looking for something dessert‑like or festive, not traditional oak-heavy whiskey

✅ Final Verdict

Penelope Rio Batch 4 is a bold, dessert-forward bourbon that trades oak intensity for sugar, spice, and unique Brazilian influence. It feels like a carnival in a bottle—vibrant, sweet, and fun.

If you enjoy an indulgent whiskey experience that pushes boundaries, this one’s worth seeking out, especially at MSRP (~$80). But if traditional bourbon structure and age complexity are your priority, this may sit too far on the sweet side.

Rating: ⭐ 3.8/5 – Fun, flavorful, and creative—but decidedly not for purists.

That’s our sip for today on DadDimes on the Rocks! Until next time, keep your bourbon bold—and your adventures sweeter. Cheers! 🥃

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🎙️ DadDimes on the Rocks – Episode: “Pinhook Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey 2024: Horse & Horizon”

Welcome back! Today, we’re saddling up with Pinhook Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey 2024, a flagship vintage from one of bourbon’s most experimental vertically‑driven brands. Each year’s release offers a new take on their core mash bill, and 2024 brings its own spin. Let’s take a ride.

🏇 Background & Concept

Pinhook sources its 2024 flagship bourbon from Castle & Key Distillery in Kentucky, blending and proofing each vintage “to craft the best—not the same” whiskey each year. The mash bill for 2024: 75% corn, 20.5% rye, 4.5% malted barley, bottled at 98 proof on average.

🥃 Tasting Notes

Nose:
Decadent notes of banana bread, butterscotch, red apple, and cinnamon greet the glass, transitioning into brown sugar and toasted hazelnut.

Palate:
Rich and smooth, flavors evolve from raisin, vanilla extract, burnt sugar, into a bold, nutty-toffee core with hints of roasted peanuts and cinnamon spice—classic Pinhook DNA, but refined by age and proof.

Finish:
Clean yet warming with lingering spice, toasted oak, and sweet brown sugar that coats the palate just long enough to beckon another sip.

💬 Community Impressions

Reddit reviewers find the 2024 vintage a pleasant surprise—with caramel, light oak, and alcohol-forward notes, but lacking deeper mid-palate complexity—calling it “caramel and alcohol and some oak” with minimal additional layers.

Still, the brand is praised in broader circles: SouthernLiving named Pinhook among the "Best Bottles of Bourbon" for its balanced flavor of vanilla, toasted almond, and gentle smoke—though not specific to this year, it reinforces Pinhook’s consistent appeal.

🔍 Who This Bourbon Is For

• Fans of high-rye bourbons looking for nuanced spice without overpowering heat.
• Cocktail lovers: Works great in an Old Fashioned or Manhattan given its solid balance and approachable proof.
• Those curious about seasonal vintage whiskey releases and how aging/shipment conditions shape flavor.

✅ Final Verdict

Pinhook 2024 Straight Bourbon is approachable, flavorful, and versatile, a showcase of careful barrel selection and blend consistency. It leans sweet with banana, butterscotch, and nutty spice—smooth yet not delicate. While it might lack the depth of Pinhook’s Vertical Series or Cask Strength bottlings, it excels as an everyday sipper or versatile cocktail whiskey.

Rating: ⭐ 3.8 / 5 – confident, interesting, and dependable.

If you spot it on the shelf around $40–45, give it a shot. It may not revolutionize your palate, but it’s a solid Pinhook to enjoy neat, on rocks, or in a classic bourbon cocktail.

That’s our pour for today. Until next round—keep your bourbon collection varied, your pours generous, and your stories bold. Cheers! 🥃

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