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In our Last Podcast Of Season 6 The team visits Iron Fish Distillery in Thompsonville, Michigan, where they explore the nine-year-old farm-based operation producing grain-to-glass whiskey with locally grown ingredients including their signature hazelnut rye.

• Iron Fish grows over 80 acres of hazelnut rye, having recently harvested 100,000 pounds for their whiskey production
• Started by sourcing MGP whiskey with unique barrel finishing while waiting for their own distillate to mature
• Mad Angler series represents their premium line featuring 100% house-distilled whiskey aged six years
• Brand draws inspiration from local author Michael Delp and the fishing culture of Northern Michigan
• Tasting includes their 95% rye whiskey, four-grain bourbon, and experimental offerings like their Manifesto series
• Distillery balances traditional methods with innovation, creating unique flavor profiles in their limited releases
• Iron Fish's motto "returning spirit to its origin" parallels steelhead trout returning to the Betsy River with bringing whiskey back to its farm roots
• Their small-batch blending program showcases the importance of finding the perfect proof point for each expression

Find Iron Fish Distillery's products on shelves throughout Michigan or visit their tasting room to experience their full lineup including exclusive releases.

Down a dirt road in Thompsonville, Michigan, something special is happening at Iron Fish Distillery. This nine-year-old farm-based operation has emerged as a beacon of craft distilling excellence in the Great Lakes region, creating whiskeys that honor local agricultural traditions while pushing creative boundaries.

The distillery's story mirrors the lifecycle of the steelhead trout that swim in the nearby Betsy River—the namesake "iron fish" that return to their birthplace after journeying through Lake Michigan. Similarly, Iron Fish represents a return of spirits to their agricultural origins, where grain and water transform into something greater than the sum of their parts.

During our visit, we explored their impressive 80-acre operation where they've just harvested over 100,000 pounds of hazelnut rye destined for their whiskey. Their strategic approach to growth—sourcing quality MGP whiskey for creative barrel finishing while patiently waiting for their own distillate to mature—has positioned them for long-term success rather than rushing immature product to market.

The Mad Angler series stands as their premium offering, featuring 100% house-distilled spirits aged six years. Drawing inspiration from local author Michael Delp, these bottles literally emboss the connection between fishing culture and whiskey appreciation. The 95% rye whiskey delivers balanced spearmint and chocolate notes without overwhelming dill characteristics, while their four-grain bourbon offers exceptional complexity at 94 proof. Most impressive is their experimental Manifesto series, which grants blender Isaac complete creative freedom to work with any barrel on the property, resulting in truly distinctive expressions.

What makes Iron Fish exceptional isn't just the quality of their spirits but their holistic approach to the craft. From their barrel selection process—working with both local cooper Joe Smith and premium Napa Valley suppliers—to their careful consideration of proof points, every decision serves the spirit rather than

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The Scotchy Bourbon Boys taste and rate Old Fitzgerald 7-Year, finding this Heaven Hill wheated bourbon delivers impressive butterscotch and toasted coconut notes at a reasonable price point.

• Old Fitzgerald 7-Year is part of Heaven Hill's wheated bourbon program including Larceny and other Old Fitzgerald expressions
• This bottled-in-bond 100 proof bourbon presents rich caramel and butterscotch on the nose
• The body has impressive viscosity with thick legs that coat the glass nicely
• Flavor profile includes distinctive toasted coconut butterscotch notes
• At $60, it represents good value compared to other premium bourbons
• Final rating: 15 out of 18 on the Old Louisville Whiskey Company Barrel Bottle Breakdown
• This bottling outperforms some older Old Fitzgerald expressions that become too oak-dominant
• Kentucky Bourbon Festival appearances include Revival Vintage Spirits (Saturday 7-9:30pm), Neely Distillery, and Whiskey Thief

Come see the Scotchy Bourbon Boys during Kentucky Bourbon Festival week at our special events and tastings. Remember good bourbon equals good times and good friends. Drink responsibly and live your life uncut and unfiltered.

Heaven Hill's Old Fitzgerald bottled-in-bond series has gained a devoted following among wheated bourbon enthusiasts, and the 7-year expression might just be the sweet spot in their lineup. This elegant decanter-style bottle with its distinguished wooden top houses a remarkable spirit that strikes the perfect balance between youthful vibrancy and mature complexity.

When I poured this bourbon into my Glencairn glass, the rich amber liquid immediately caught my attention with its impressive viscosity. At 100 proof, it coats the glass with medium-thick legs that slowly cascade down the sides – a promising indication of the full-bodied experience to come. The nose opens with waves of caramel complemented by subtle ethanol, followed by enticing hints of butterscotch and gentle toasted oak notes that become more pronounced as the whiskey breathes.

The tasting experience truly elevates this bourbon above many of its competitors. That first sip delivers a distinctive toasted coconut butterscotch flavor that sets it apart from other wheated bourbons on the market. The sweetness is perfectly balanced by oak tannins that provide structure without dominating the delicate wheat characteristics – a problem that sometimes affects the older expressions in this series. While the finish isn't extraordinarily long, it leaves a pleasant impression with lingering notes of butterscotch and subtle oak warmth.

At approximately $60, this expression represents excellent value in today's premium bourbon landscape. It earned an impressive 15 out of 18 points on our comprehensive barrel breakdown rating system, with particularly high marks for its exceptional taste profile. Whether you're a dedicated collector or simply looking for a delicious pour to share with friends, the Old Fitzgerald 7-Year delivers a refined experience that showcases Heaven Hill's mastery of wheated bourbon production. Try it alongside other offerings in their wheated portfolio like Larceny or Bernheim Wheat Whiskey for a fascinating comparative tasting experience!

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Walter Zausch and Lisa Roper-Wicker share the exciting news of Lisa joining Whiskey Thief Distilling Company as their master distiller, a perfect pairing that feels like she's been part of the team for years rather than months.

• Lisa is overseeing increased production with four fermentations currently running
• Whiskey Thief is planning to build additional rick houses on their property to accommodate growth
• The emotional connection distillers have to their whiskey, with Lisa comparing leaving whiskey behind to "taking children to college"
• The balance between technical perfection and flavor in whiskey production
• How weather and barrel conditions can dramatically affect whiskey flavor profiles
• The innovative barrel selection experience at Whiskey Thief that allows visitors to taste directly from multiple barrels
• Whiskey Thief's "5th of July" toasted barrel bourbon and seasonal releases

Join us at Whiskey Thief Distilling in Frankfurt or New Luton for an exceptional tasting experience with five-barrel stations and the opportunity to bottle your own selection.

The bourbon world just got a whole lot more exciting as master distiller Lisa Roper-Wicker joins the innovative team at Whiskey Thief Distilling Company. In this lively, candid conversation, we dive deep into what this partnership means for Kentucky's whiskey landscape and why it feels like Lisa has "always been here" despite joining just months ago.

The chemistry between Lisa and the Whiskey Thief team is immediately apparent as they share their vision for ramping up production while maintaining the exceptional quality that has made them a must-visit destination on the bourbon trail. With four fermentations currently underway and plans for additional rick houses, there's a palpable sense of momentum that has everyone in the industry paying attention.

What truly sets this episode apart is the rare glimpse into the emotional side of distilling. Lisa opens up about the bittersweet experience of seeing whiskeys she created at previous distilleries being released without her input, comparing it to "taking children to college" – you've done everything you could, but decisions will now be made differently. This deeply personal perspective reveals the intimate connection between distillers and their craft that casual bourbon drinkers rarely get to witness.

The conversation takes fascinating turns into the technicalities of whiskey production, from barrel char levels to fermentation characteristics, all discussed with the comfortable banter of friends sharing drinks rather than experts delivering lectures. They explore the fine line between whiskey "flaws" and distinctive character, challenging conventional wisdom about what makes a bourbon exceptional.

Whether you're a seasoned bourbon enthusiast or just beginning your whiskey journey, this episode offers valuable insights into how Whiskey Thief is redefining the distillery experience with their innovative barrel selection program and commitment to customer engagement. Pour yourself something special and join us for this toast to new beginnings, innovative spirits, and the human stories behind every exceptional bottle.

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We explore the innovative world of RD1 Spirits with Barry Brinegar and Dr. Jared Gollihue, discovering how scientific methodology is reshaping bourbon finishing techniques at their new Lexington distillery.

• RD1's journey from honoring William Tarr's 1865 legacy to becoming pioneers in wood-finished Kentucky bourbon
• Dr. Jared Gollihue's scientific approach to wood finishing, bringing PhD-level expertise to bourbon production
• The challenges of wood selection, including regulatory hurdles with the TTB and FDA for exotic wood species
• Why whiskey needs time to "settle" after blending or opening, with flavor compounds needing time to recalculate
• Beer barrel finishing experiments creating unique flavor profiles through a circular aging process
• Sister Cities whiskey, blending bourbon and rye finished with French oak and Japanese Mizunara
• Experimental offerings available only at the distillery's tasting room, including smoked oak and maple
• RD1's position as an anchor tenant in Lexington's new entertainment district at The Commons

Visit RD1 Spirits at their new distillery location in The Commons in Lexington, Kentucky to experience their unique wood-finished bourbons and experimental offerings firsthand.

What happens when scientific methodology meets the artistry of Kentucky bourbon? At RD1 Spirits' gleaming new distillery in Lexington, the answer is nothing short of revolutionary. 

Barry Brinegar and Dr. Jared Gollihue are writing bourbon's next chapter through methodical wood experimentation that transforms traditional Kentucky whiskey into something extraordinary. Their journey from honoring the William Tarr legacy to pioneering innovative finishing techniques demonstrates the untapped potential still waiting to be discovered in America's native spirit.

The scientific precision behind RD1's approach is fascinating. Dr. Gollihue, with his PhD in wood maturation, doesn't just randomly add wood to barrels – he calculates precise ratios, documents every variable, and maintains 50+ test barrels simultaneously. When he explains why whiskey needs time to "recalculate" after blending or why flavor chemistry doesn't scale linearly, you realize this is bourbon-making at its most thoughtful.

The tasting room offers an unparalleled experience where visitors can sample experimental barrels that showcase woods from around the world – Mizunara oak, sweet cherry, French oak, and even maple wood smoked on bourbon barrel staves. Their Sister Cities release brilliantly combines bourbon and rye with French and Japanese oak influences, honoring Lexington's international connections while creating a wholly unique whiskey expression.

As an anchor tenant in Lexington's emerging entertainment district at The Commons, RD1 is positioned at the center of a bourbon tourism destination that will soon feature pickleball courts, axe throwing, and an amphitheater. This blend of innovation, accessibility, and Kentucky heritage makes RD1 a must-visit for anyone wondering what more Kentucky bourbon can do.

Come taste the future of bourbon where science meets art – no lab coat required, but an adventurous palate is highly recommended.

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The Scotchy Bourbon Boys welcome Randy Prassy, Kentucky Bourbon Festival President, to discuss major improvements for the upcoming festival including a transformed VIP experience and expanded distillery footprint.

• Complete transformation of St. Joseph's Church parking lot into a premium turf-covered distillery area with shade structures and cooling fans
• Expansion of the Great Tent to include three air-conditioned education suites
• Introduction of RFID technology on 34 single barrel pick bottles to track their journey globally
• Implementation of a beta test for direct-to-consumer shipping options through Kentucky Bourbon Direct
• Relocation of the cigar lounge to provide better accessibility with multiple retailers
• 85% of festival attendees come from outside Kentucky, creating significant economic impact
• Announcement of 2025 festival dates: September 10-13
• Introduction of the exclusive President's Club VIP experience featuring Oris watches and luxury accommodations
• Festival tickets go on sale mid-April with VIP typically selling out within minutes

Remember to mark your calendars for September and book accommodations early, as hotels fill quickly. Follow the Kentucky Bourbon Festival website to join their insider email list for ticket pre-sales.

Step behind the velvet rope of Kentucky's premier bourbon celebration as Festival President Randy Prasse reveals the meticulous planning and significant upgrades coming to this year's Kentucky Bourbon Festival. What began as a bold reinvention five years ago has blossomed into the ultimate bourbon enthusiast's playground, with 85% of attendees traveling from outside Kentucky to experience what can't be found anywhere else in the world.

The 2025 festival promises a complete transformation of the visitor experience. Imagine walking across lush green turf (replacing hot asphalt) to air-conditioned tasting tents, where 34 exclusive single barrel picks await. Each bottle now features cutting-edge RFID technology that tracks its journey globally as it changes hands—creating a digital passport for these sought-after spirits. The distillery footprint has expanded dramatically, with major players like Heaven Hill and Maker's Mark relocating to create a more intuitive flow throughout the grounds.

For collectors and bourbon hunters, the festival has become a treasure trove. Some distilleries now sell more bottles during the festival weekend than at their permanent gift shops, with many creating special releases available exclusively to festival attendees. A beta test of direct-to-consumer shipping options through Kentucky Bourbon Direct will allow visitors from reciprocal states to purchase bottles at the festival and have them shipped home legally—solving the perennial "how do I get all this bourbon home?" dilemma.

The evolution reflects a deeper understanding of what makes bourbon culture special: the intersection of craftsmanship, community, and shared experience. While the festival has transformed from its free-admission roots, it has maintained affordability for genuine enthusiasts while creating luxury options like the exclusive President's Club (featuring Oris watches and premium accommodations) for those seeking the ultimate experience.

Mark your calendars for September 10-13, 2025, but don't wait to secure accommodations—hotels and Airbnbs were booked solid within minutes of the date

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Green River Distilling Company partners with the US Army to create a special 250th anniversary bourbon bottled at a meaningful 111.1 proof to commemorate Veterans Day. The collaborative project reflects Green River's long history of supporting veterans dating back to the distillery's founding by J.W. McCulloch, who gained favor with veterans that helped secure an 18-year contract as the sole spirits provider for US Marine Hospitals.

• Official licensed product of the United States Army required navigating complex approval processes
• Project revitalized through personal connection between Green River leadership and the Sergeant Major of the Army
• Small batch blend of four to six-year-old barrels with notes of warm vanilla, leather, cinnamon, and cherry
• Special product launch featured former Golden Knights parachuting bottles from 5,000 feet at Fort Bragg
• Initial production of 10,000 six-packs quickly sold out across distribution channels
• Priced at $49.99, making it accessible while honoring military service
• Green River continues expanding with future innovations including a four-grain bourbon currently aging
• Team-based approach to distilling reflects military values of teamwork and excellence

Remember to drink responsibly. Never drink and drive and live your life uncut and unfiltered.

A toast to those who serve! Green River Distilling Company's Master Distiller Aaron Harris & CEO Colonel (Ret) Mark Erwin of lofted Spirits joins the Scotchy Bourbon Boys to share the extraordinary story behind their special US Army 250th Anniversary bourbon. This isn't just another limited release – it's a heartfelt tribute that celebrates America's oldest military branch through meticulous craftsmanship and meaningful symbolism.

The bourbon's journey from concept to bottle showcases the nimble innovation possible at Green River, where military connections run deep. Harris reveals how the Sergeant Major of the Army personally revived the project after initial legal challenges, and details the painstaking process of creating an official licensed Army product. The partnership extends Green River's long legacy of supporting veterans, dating back to founder J.W. McCulloch's generous whiskey donations at veterans' memorials that helped secure an 18-year government contract.

Bottled at a purposeful 111.1 proof to honor Veterans Day (11/11), this small batch blend features four to six-year-old barrels selected for their warm vanilla, leather, and cinnamon notes, with distinctive cherry undertones. The hosts conduct a thorough tasting that confirms this bourbon delivers exceptional quality, earning near-perfect scores for its rich complexity and buttery mouthfeel. But perhaps most memorable is the dramatic product launch – Erwin describes the unforgettable day when former Army Golden Knights parachuted bottles from 5,000 feet at Fort Bragg before sharing authentic toasts among veterans.

What began as a projected 2,000-case release quickly expanded to 10,000 six-packs that flew off shelves nationwide. Priced accessibly at $49.99, this commemorative bottle offers bourbon enthusiasts and military supporters alike the chance to honor service while enjoying premium Kentucky whiskey. Subscribe now to join the Scotchy Bourbon Boys for more exclusive distillery insights and passionate bourbon appreciation!

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We explore Milk & Honey (M&H) Israeli whiskey, a groundbreaking single malt aged at the lowest place on Earth. The Dead Sea location creates extreme maturation conditions, with temperatures reaching 124°F and extraordinary atmospheric pressure resulting in a complex whiskey despite its young age.

• First whiskey ever aged in the Dead Sea region, 1,400 feet below sea level
• Loses 25% to the angels each year (75% over its three-year aging period)
• Made from 100% malted barley at 111 proof (55.5% ABV)
• Aged in bourbon barrels and STR (shaved, toasted, re-charred) red wine casks
• Features chocolate and burnt marshmallow on the nose with notes of pineapple on the finish
• Part of M&H's Apex Terroir series exploring how location affects whiskey development
• Inspired by the late Dr. Jim Swan's vision of Israel as a "playground for innovation"
• Demonstrates how extreme conditions can accelerate maturation and create unique flavor profiles

Remember to check out www.scotchybourbonboys.com for merchandise including t-shirts and Glencairn glasses. Follow us on Facebook, YouTube, Instagram, X, Apple, iHeart, and Spotify – like, comment, subscribe, and leave good feedback to help others discover our content.

Journey with us to the lowest place on Earth as we explore the remarkable M&H Dead Sea whiskey from Israel's first whiskey distillery. This groundbreaking single malt defies conventional aging wisdom by maturing in the extraordinary conditions of the Dead Sea region – 1,400 feet below sea level where temperatures soar to 124°F and atmospheric pressure creates a whiskey environment unlike anywhere else in the world.

The Whiskey Doctor joins us for this special Whiskey Without Borders episode to unpack what makes this Israeli innovation so fascinating. We discover how extreme maturation conditions create an astonishing 25% angel's share per year, meaning 75% of this whiskey evaporates during its three-year aging process. The result? A surprisingly complex whiskey that delivers far beyond its young age.

As we taste through this 111-proof expression, we uncover a remarkable sensory journey – from chocolate and burnt marshmallow aromas to hints of campfire smoke and unexpected tropical fruit notes. The whiskey offers what our hosts describe as "the hug" – that warming sensation that travels through your chest with a proper sip of quality spirits.

This episode delves deep into whiskey terroir – how specific locations shape a whiskey's character through climate, elevation, and atmospheric conditions. M&H's Apex Terroir series represents the cutting edge of whiskey innovation, demonstrating that excellence doesn't require centuries of tradition, just vision and a willingness to push boundaries.

Whether you're a bourbon devotee curious about global whiskey expressions or a single malt enthusiast looking to expand your horizons, this episode offers fascinating insights into how Israeli whiskey is carving its unique place in the spirits world. Subscribe, leave a review, and join us as we continue exploring exceptional whiskeys from unexpected places around the globe.

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We take listeners along on our bourbon hunting adventure in Chicago, revealing how the Windy City's whiskey scene differs dramatically from our experiences in Ohio and South Carolina.

• Discovering the density of Chicago's liquor stores – passing 13 stores on one drive to Wrigleyville
• Scoring Weller 12 for $50 at Woodman's during a massive 17-case drop
• Finding allocated bottles readily available at reasonable prices across the city
• Exploring Binny's flagship store, the third-largest liquor store in America
• Enjoying a $50 Pappy flight at Binny's tasting bar with generous 2oz pours
• Visiting Koval Distillery and sampling their unique wheat whiskey
• Meeting with Martin Duffy and experiencing rare scotches at Green Post Restaurant
• Ending our adventure at Delilah's bar with a pour of 2018 George T Stagg
• Forming new friendships through bourbon, including late-night tastings of Eagle Rare 17

Remember to check out our upcoming barrel pick in September and stay tuned for more details on our Crystal Glencairn Club.

When six bourbon enthusiasts descend upon Chicago with rental cars and empty suitcases, magic happens. Our weekend adventure through the Windy City revealed a bourbon hunting paradise unlike anything we'd experienced in our home territories.

Chicago's whiskey landscape stands in stark contrast to the controlled distribution systems of states like Ohio. Where allocated bottles might drop statewide back home, Chicago's liquor stores operate as independent whiskey islands, each with their own treasures waiting to be discovered. On a single drive from our hotel to Wrigleyville for a Cubs game, we counted thirteen different liquor stores – each offering unique selections at surprisingly reasonable prices.

The highlight came at Woodman's, where we stumbled upon a freshly delivered 17-case drop of Weller 12 priced at just under $50 after tax. To put this in perspective, the same store had simultaneously received Weller Full Proof, 1792 Cognac finish, and Buffalo Trace's "Tater Salad" bottles (EH Taylor Small Batch). At Binny's flagship store – the third-largest liquor retailer in America – we indulged in a $50 flight featuring Old Rip Van Winkle 10, Van Winkle Special Reserve 12, and Van Winkle Family Reserve Rye, each poured as generous 2oz servings.

Beyond retail therapy, we explored Koval Distillery's innovative grain experiments, savored rare scotches pulled from the vault at Green Post Restaurant alongside Martin Duffy, and capped our nights with pours of George T. Stagg 2018 at the legendary Delilah's bar. Most precious of all were the friendships formed along the way – from chance encounters in bottle release lines to fireside tastings of Eagle Rare 17 that stretched into the early morning hours.

Whether you're a seasoned bourbon hunter or simply curious about exploring whiskey culture beyond the traditional Kentucky trail, Chicago offers an unexpectedly rich playground for whiskey lovers. Join us at www.scotchiebourbonboys.com or on our social channels to learn more about our adventures and upcoming barrel picks!

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Middle West Spirits has emerged as a powerful force in American whiskey, acquiring Old Elk Whiskey and expanding with a massive 75,000 square foot facility that produces 14,000 barrels every three months.

• Founded in 2008 by Ryan Lang with a commitment to Ohio-grown grains and local production
• Recently acquired Colorado-based Old Elk Whiskey to secure its future with a dedicated production facility
• Produces a standout four-grain wheated bourbon featuring dark pumpernickel rye that delivers butterscotch, caramel, and toffee flavors
• Scored an impressive 17/18 in our tasting, rivaling established brands like Booker's and Rare Breed
• Operates one of North America's largest independent distilleries with a grain-to-glass philosophy
• Manages over 25,000 acres of Ohio grain farmland to ensure quality control
• Works with Speyside Bourbon Cooperage in Jackson, Ohio for their barrel needs
• Produces 15 brands including Midwest Bourbon, Rye, and Wheat Whiskeys

Join us at the Kentucky Bourbon Festival and for our next barrel selection - a private Maker's Mark pick on Thursday morning, September 4th at 9am!

The American whiskey landscape is shifting eastward, and Middle West Spirits is leading the charge. In this eye-opening episode, we explore how an Ohio distillery has transformed from a small craft operation into one of North America's largest independent distilleries, culminating in their recent acquisition of Colorado's Old Elk Whiskey.

Ryan Lang founded Middle West Spirits in 2008 with a vision to create a true "Ohio bourbon experience." Unlike many who source ingredients from across the country, Middle West embraces a genuine grain-to-glass philosophy using exclusively Ohio-grown grains and partnering with Speyside Bourbon Cooperage in Jackson for their barrels. This commitment to local terroir is paying dividends as their whiskey gains national recognition.

The star of our tasting was their Michelson Cast Strength Wheated Four-Grain Bourbon (Batch 001), bottled at a robust 122.2 proof. What immediately captivated our panel was its complexity without astringency – delivering notes of butterscotch, caramel, toffee, and what one panelist described as "warm pumpernickel rye bread with butter." The unique four-grain mash bill features non-GMO yellow corn, soft red winter wheat, two-row barley, and dark pumpernickel rye.

During our Old Louisville Barrel Bottle Breakdown, this bourbon scored an impressive 17 out of 18 points, with particular praise for its thick mouthfeel, complex flavor profile, and lingering finish that rivals established barrel-proof bourbons costing significantly more. At approximately $70, it represents exceptional value in today's premium bourbon market.

Middle West's expansion has been nothing short of remarkable. Their new 75,000 square foot facility produces approximately 14,000 barrels every three months, tripling their workforce and managing over 25,000 acres of Ohio grain farmland. With this capacity and their acquisition of Old Elk, Middle West is positioned to become a dominant force in American whiskey production.

Whether you're a bourbon enthusiast looking for the next frontier or simply appreciate craftsmanship and innovation, Middle West Spirits deserves your attention. They're proving that world-class whiskey can come from unexpected places when passion meets commitment to quality and local sourci

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Tiny explores how bourbon connects us during life's most meaningful moments, sharing how he honored his wife's uncle Peter with special whiskeys that brought family together in remembrance. 

• How bourbon serves as the social glue during celebrations and life transitions
• The special whiskies shared at a Wisconsin memorial service, including Baker's bourbon and JW Dant from 1969
• The way whiskey creates bonds among family members of different generations
• Walter's whiskey farm creates a similar communal experience through tastings in a relaxed setting
• Baker's bourbon history and transition from small batch to single barrel expressions
• Complete tasting notes and comparison between original Baker's and the new High Rye Limited Edition
• The perfect 18/18 rating for Baker's High Rye on the Old Louisville Whiskey Company barrel bottle breakdown
• Upcoming Scotchy Bourbon Boys events including the Crystal Glen Cairn Club tasting and a Maker's Mark private selection with Rob Samuels
• Next podcast featuring Dan Garrison discussing Garrison Brothers Guadalupe bourbon

Remember good bourbon equals good times and good friends. Drink responsibly and live your life uncut and unfiltered.

What makes a bottle of bourbon truly special? It's not just what's inside—it's the moments it helps us create and the connections it fosters. In this heartfelt exploration of whiskey's role in life's meaningful transitions, Tiny shares how bourbon brought his family together during a memorial service for his wife's uncle Peter, creating lasting bonds through shared pours of rare bottles like JW Dant from 1969 and May Day Rye.

The spotlight then turns to Baker's High Rye Limited Edition, a fascinating twist on the classic expression. This single barrel, 7-year 9-month bourbon delivers an impressive flavor transformation while maintaining the brand's signature smooth, slick mouthfeel. Through a meticulous tasting, Tiny reveals why this 107-proof special release earns a perfect 18/18 score on the Old Louisville Whiskey Company barrel bottle breakdown—with its intense cherry candy nose, cinnamon-apple palate, and exceptionally long holiday spice finish that outperforms even the beloved original Baker's.

Bourbon enthusiasts will appreciate the detailed side-by-side comparison between the high rye expression and the traditional Baker's, highlighting how rye content transforms the whiskey while preserving its essential character. We also get exciting announcements about upcoming events including the exclusive Crystal Glen Cairn Club tasting in August and a Maker's Mark private barrel selection with Rob Samuels on September 4th, plus a preview of next week's special episode featuring Dan Garrison discussing Garrison Brothers Guadalupe bourbon.

Whether you're a longtime bourbon aficionado or just beginning your whiskey journey, this episode reminds us that great bourbon creates not just memorable flavors, but meaningful connections. Which special bottle will mark your next important life moment?

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