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Community => Non-audio hobbies and interests => The Culinary Circle => Topic started by: Marbles on 9 Feb 2005, 08:34 pm

Title: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: Marbles on 9 Feb 2005, 08:34 pm
If Tyson can have his Scotch reviews, we can have Bourbon :-)

Woodford Reserve - Smooth and refined
Blantons - smooth and a bit fuller flavored than Woodford
Bookers - at 126 proof the alcohol was a bit overpowering.
Wild Turkey Kentucky Spirit - very smooth and mild for a Wild Turkey, not as smooth as the WR or Blantons, but close.

Your turn to add to it.....
Title: Now a topic I actually know something about!
Post by: Jumpin on 9 Feb 2005, 09:31 pm
Anything from old rip Van Winkle is fantastic.  I am working on the 12 year old family reserve these days.

Mark
Title: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: drunkonjack on 9 Feb 2005, 10:09 pm
I like Jack Daniels myself   :D
Title: Re: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: Ulas on 9 Feb 2005, 10:24 pm
Quote from: Marbles
Bookers - at 126 proof the alcohol was a bit overpowering.

Bookers can be overpowering if you drink it straight out of the bottle. Try it in a snifter; swirl, warm, and sip it like a fine Cognac.
Title: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: maxwalrath on 9 Feb 2005, 10:36 pm
:lol: all you people out there drinking 126 proof booze out of the bottle, now you know.
Title: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: Tyson on 9 Feb 2005, 11:41 pm
OK, here's my go (not complete, but will update over time):

Ancient Age NAS
Very strong rye on the nose.  Tastes isgrainy and sweet, with rye still dominating.  Interestinly, this one does not have a real "finish", but rather just sort of dies after a few seconds of being swallowed.

Bakers 7
Now we're talking!  A great bourbon.  On the nose it is passion fruit and malt.  Taste is sharp and very big/full.  Finish has mango and tropical fruit on top of the vanilla.  Long ginish.  A "big"and very satisfying bourbon.

{edit} With water added, this one smooths out but loses a bit of character and a lot of the bigness goes away.  I recommend drinking it straight.

Basil Hayden
Very smooth indeed.  Has very much an orange and malty nose.  Taste is a mix of Orange Serbert and Vanilla ice cream.  Quite delicious.  Finish is pretty short and subdued.  Overall a very drinkable whiskey indeed.

Black Maple Hill 16
Rich, rich, rich.  Great bourbon, thick, viscous, sweet, smokey, the only whiskey on this list that can give the Stagg a run for it's money.  Highly recommended.

Bookers
Had this at a bar the other day.  Very impressive, very potent.  It's got a very thick, viscous feel to it, with super intense caramel and vanilla, and layers and layers of oak in the finish.  Almost as good as the Van Winkle bourbon, but just barely misses out because the Van Winkle is slightly smoother, and has greater depth and complexity on the initial taste.

Buffalo Trace NAS
No Age Statement on this one, but it has to be fairly old, as it is very, very smooth, with almost no alcohol sting. Goes down very nicely indeed. Very much an echt-bourbon flavor profile, similar but Bulliets, but much fuller, and even smoother. Great big caramel, vanilla, and oak. Exceptionally good and a great bargain. Highly recommended.

Bulliet NAS
NAS stands for no age statement, so this is probably a fairly young whisky.  Doesn't matter, it is one of the better whiskies on this list.  Very balanced, smooth, and soft on the nose.  Very malty.  Almost scotch-like in it's maltiness.  Finish does not turn hard or sharp like most other bourbons, but stays soft and malty.  Delicious.

Classic Cask 20
Picked this up on sale for $50 at my local liquor store. It is perhaps the most interesting bourbons on this list. Most bourbons get more vanilla and woody tasting as they age. Also, longer age tends to intensify the overall experience of it. I expected this one to be a bit like the Van Winkle I love so much. But in fact it was almost completely the opposite. Where the Van Winkle is toasty, bisciuty, caramel, and big oak, the Classic Cask emphasized the other side of bourbon - maple syrup mixed with passion fruit and lavander. The almost citrusy flavor of intense fruit is the dominating element of this whisky, and it carries through to the finish, which is only somewhat oaky. A nice compliment to something like the Van Winkle.

Eagle Rare Single Barrel 10
What an interesting bourbon!  Nose is very soft indeed, very similar to Bulliets in it's overall reticence.  If you really get down in the glass, it's got a touch of red grape or maybe raisin riding on the traditional bourbon aroma.  Taste starts off the same way, very soft when it first hits the mouth.  But then it transitions almost immediately to sharp rye with a caramel apple flavor.  Not a big full bodied bourbon, somewhat thin actually, but very tasty.  Finish is intense, sharp, and somewhat fruit like, a bit citrusy.  Very good bourbon.

{edit} With a bit of water this one smooths out a bit, but loses some of that interesting sharp transition.  Also recommend drinking this one straight.

Elijah Craig 12
Easily the smoothest of the bourbon's here.  Very mellow on the nose, with a good balance between caramel and vanilla, with a bit of all-spice thrown in.  Taste is remarkably smooth, again everything in very good balance, nice and sweet, smooth, full, and good oaky finish.  Great whisky, 2nd only to the Van Winkle in my experience.

Evan Williams 7
Very sweet up front, reminds me of cotton candy.  Suprisingly smooth since it's only 7 years old.  Middle transitions to a clove like flavor, and a short, not particularly woody finish.  Very little vanilla.  Reminds me of a slightly better version of the Makers Mark.

George T. Stagg
I picked up a bottle of this legendary bourbon by pure luck.  I was in the store to buy a bottle of scotch for a friend as a gift, and just happened to check out the bourbon section.  And there it was, the holy grail of almost every enthusiast.  Often pre-ordered and sold out before it even hits the shelves.  And on sale at $47!!!!  Snatched that puppy up post haste.  AND it lives up to the hype.  Best bourbon I've ever had, bar none.  Easily better than the Old Rip Van Winkle.  The taste if reminiscent of pipe tobacco, with a sweet overlay.  The finish lasts 15 minutes, literally.  And at 130 proof, you can only take the smallest of small sips.  A glass of this lasts and lasts, insanely good.

Jack Daniels NAS
This is the standard black label #7 Jack.  The nose is again strong on rye, but also strong on vanilla (unusual).  Taste is fairly astringent and grainy, but with a good woody malty flavor that redeems it quite a bit.  Finish is almost dark chocolate sweetness.  Not a bad bourbon at all.  Not great, but suprisingly good.

Jefferson Reserve 12-17
This is a vatting of their 12 to 17 year old stock.  It's a tricky bourbon.  It's very soft on the nose and is starts off quite smooth and malty, but very sweet ala Evan Williams.  But where EW stays smooth right to the end, the Jefferson Reserve explodes with a hard rye and corn sweetness about halfway through.  It just builds in intensity for about 15 seconds, overtaking the whole nasal cavity.  Then it transitions to medium strong vanilla with a bit of red licorice.  Good stuff.

{edit} With water this one becomes a very weak, poor tasting whiskey.  Drink straight only.

Jim Bean Black Label
Smoother than the Jack Daniels #7 but less smooth than the Bulliet or Evan Williams 7.  Flowery on the nose, particularly violets.  Taste is typical bourbon, but with a lavendar and vanilla potpouri flavor.  Finish follows along the same path, more vanilla potpouri.  Good overall, but not great.

Knob Creek 9
Nose is very overpoweringly alcoholic.  Taste is more balanced than Makers Mark, but less smooth overall.  Stronger wood/oak/vanilla finish, not as sweet upfront.

Makers Mark
Strong caramel/vanilla nose, very sweet.  Smooth upfront, caramel is over-riding flavor.  Transitions to a sharp grain intensity toward the end, with a not particularly strong finish.

{edit} Adding water certainly smooths this out even more, and brings out an orange marmalade on toast type of taste, while still retaining a bit of the sharp spiciness.  I like this one better with just a touch of water.

Old Rip Van Winkle 15
Easily the best bourbon I've had so far.  Even at 115 proof, it's nose is not overpoweringly alcoholic.  Cereal and toaste in the nose.  Taste is exceedingly smooth and thickly viscous on the tongue.  Bread pudding in the middle portion, with a finish of layers and layers of oak/vanilla.  Outstanding.

Old Whisky River 6
Strong alcohol nose.  Palate is not particularly sweet, with a strong menthol flavor and smell.  Finish is medium wood and shortish.  Not one of the better bourbons on this list.

Wild Turkey - Russel Reserve 10
Very, very similar to the Woodford Reserve.  But where WR is thin and licorice on the palate, the WT-RR is slightly fuller and stays with a lavendar and mint flavor toward the finish.  Have to give this one a thumbs up, very tasty and quite smooth.

Woodford Reserve
Strongly alcoholic on the nose, but not overpoweringly so.  Aniseed and peppermint also prominent on the nose.  Taste is disappointingly "thin", with a strong licorice flavor dominating toward the rather light finish.  Disappointingly mediocre.

{edit} With water this one improve a LOT.  The thin-ness noted before now becomes a softness and a smooth flavor of maple syrup and orange fruitcake.  Extremely good with 4 parts whiskey to 1 part water.
Title: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: Brad on 10 Feb 2005, 01:28 am
I've been to the Maker's Mark distillery, so I'm kind of partial to it.
Grew up in Louisville, not too far from the ole place.

They have outbuildings on the property that the farmers used to drive up to in horse/buggy in the 1800's to get their whiskey.
Title: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: Scott F. on 10 Feb 2005, 02:21 am
Hey Tyson,

Curious about your impressions on the Jim Beam Black label. I've got a bottle here but I haven't cracked the seal yet, you've got me hooked on Glenmorangie Burgundy and Dalmore 12.
Title: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: Tyson on 10 Feb 2005, 04:53 am
Added Bulliet, Evan Williams 7, Jefferson Reserve, and Old Whisky River 6 to my ongoing list above.

Scott,
I haven't had the Jim Bean Black yet, although I almost picked up a bottle tonight when I got the Jefferson Reserve.  I'll post on it when I get a chance to try it (should be too long).
Title: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: Todd A. on 10 Feb 2005, 10:27 pm
You guys should appreciate this..... :lol:

http://www.rathergood.com/first_drink/
Title: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: tex-amp on 10 Feb 2005, 11:14 pm
No Jim Beam Black label fans?

"In a recent independent study, the Beverage Testing Institute rated Jim Beam Black® highest among leading North American whiskeys for its overall nose, depth of flavor and finish. Every barrel is aged 8 years to achieve a full 86 proof and distinctive character that anyone can respect.
Beverage Testing Institute - Professional Tasting - Chicago, Illinois 2003

Wine Enthusiast Magazine rated Jim Beam Black Superb (90-95)/Highly Recommended in the American Whiskey category of the Top 60 Spirits for 2003. "  http://www.jimbeam.com/beam/v5/products/black_label.aspx
Title: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: djbnh on 11 Feb 2005, 02:00 am
Please note that Jack Daniels is a whiskey, not a bourbon. Go to the Jack D web site (http://www.jackdaniels.com/home.asp), or better yet take the distillery tour, to get more related information. As an aside, when I was on the tour, it was interesting to hear how Mr. Daniels temper and a safe worked to end his life.
Title: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: Tyson on 11 Feb 2005, 03:50 am
Added Jim Bean Black label, Eagle Rare 10, and Bakers 7 to my list.
Title: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: Rob Babcock on 11 Feb 2005, 04:27 am
Quote from: tex-amp
No Jim Beam Black label fans?


Count me in, Tex-amp.  I really like it a lot.
Title: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: Andrikos on 11 Feb 2005, 11:05 pm
Anybody know of a good website to buy some single malts and bourbons from?
Is there an "intra-state alcohol shipping" law I should know about??
Title: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: djbnh on 11 Feb 2005, 11:14 pm
Quote from: Andrikos
Is there an "intra-state alcohol shipping" law I should know about??


Yes, each state has laws regulating how, and how much, alcohol one may import. NH makes $$$ off MA, VT and other states' residents who come in to NH to purchase liquor. (NH usually sells most products for substantially less than the surrounding states, thus the incentive for those who live near the border, or are visiting NH, to purchase liquor in NH.)
Title: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: Tyson on 13 Feb 2005, 05:01 am
Added some notes about how a few of the whiskey's react with a bit of water added.  So far only the Woodford Reserve and Makers Mark improves with water.
Title: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: ctviggen on 13 Feb 2005, 06:30 pm
This is a list my friend sent me, along with his ratings:

Jack Daniels    C-
Knob Creek     B+
Maker's Mark     B
Jim Beam Black     B-
Woodford Reserve     A-
Buffalo Trace     A-
Elijah Craig 12year     A
Title: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: Tyson on 14 Feb 2005, 05:50 pm
Added Bookers to my list.
Title: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: Tyson on 17 Feb 2005, 08:52 pm
Added Wild Turkey - Russel Reserve 10 to my list on the 1st page.
Title: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: Joules on 19 Feb 2005, 01:02 am
Copper Fox From Culpeper Virginia !!!
Title: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: Tyson on 23 Feb 2005, 07:41 pm
Added Basil Hayden to the list in my post on the 1st page.
Title: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: Tyson on 9 Mar 2005, 06:10 pm
Added Buffalo Trace NAS to my post on the first page.
Title: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: ctviggen on 10 Mar 2005, 12:05 pm
OK, I tried to drink Woodford Reserve last night.  I pored it onto some ice and let sit for a while.  After a few sips, I had to throw it out.  I couldn't drink it.  I take it this takes a while to acquire a taste for?
Title: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: Tyson on 10 Mar 2005, 04:11 pm
The problem is that you put it on ice.  The 2nd problem is that you didn't warm it in your hand.  The 3rd problem is that Woodford Reserve is not a particularly good "intro" bourbon (it's a bit hot and grainy tasting).  Try some Elijah Craig, or Buffalo Trace, or Bulliet instead.  Also, try diluting it with a little water at first (maybe 4 parts bourbon to 1 part water).  Warming it with your hand in a brandy glass (tulip shaped) is very important, as it brings out the most flavor.  Also, adding a bit of water will knock down the "alcohol sting".
Title: Woosy Piss ants
Post by: rooze on 11 Mar 2005, 02:36 am
What is it with you woosy pissants putting water in your bourbon?....do you know what they put in water these days?

Get a grip and take it like a man (or a woman), neat and quick!!

R
Title: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: Tyson on 14 Mar 2005, 12:20 am
Added Classic Cask 20 to the front page list.
Title: Let me post the question differently.....
Post by: bwkendall on 15 Mar 2005, 08:51 pm
name the bourbons you have found that you don't like.

(BTW, this is a damn fine topic you folks have come up with.  Good enough to bring me out of retirement!)
Title: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: Tyson on 15 Mar 2005, 08:55 pm
Whiskey River 6, Ancient Age NAS, Jim Beam White, Wild Turdey 101, Knob Creek 9.
Title: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: JackStraw on 15 Mar 2005, 09:03 pm
Quote from: Tyson
Added Buffalo Trace NAS to my post on the first page.


I don't see this one on the first page, dude.
Title: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: ctviggen on 15 Mar 2005, 09:04 pm
Oops -- I misspoke.  I used Elijah Craig.  You drink it warm?  I couldn't do it -- I'd ralph.
Title: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: loki1957 on 15 Mar 2005, 09:04 pm
Anything by the Jim Beam group
Title: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: Tyson on 15 Mar 2005, 09:19 pm
OK, buffalo trace nas is NOW added :)

ctviggen,
well, it doesn't get much smoother or easy than EC 12, so not sure what to tell you on that.

Of course I drink it warm.  I drink cognac and brandy warm, why would whisky be any different?  Drinking it cold, or even worse, with ice, means that you get no flavor other than the atringency of the alcohol.  Which is fine for cheap whiskey, but obviates the whole point of buying an expensive, good quality whiskey.  Warm instead of cold takes the experience from a thin and overpowergly alcoholic experience, to a rich, big, flavorful experience.
Title: Re: Let me post the question differently.....
Post by: loki1957 on 15 Mar 2005, 09:27 pm
Quote from: bwkendall
name the bourbons you have found that you don't like.

(BTW, this is a damn fine topic you folks have come up with.  Good enough to bring me out of retirement!)


Jim beam group. garbage
Title: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: Tyson on 20 Jun 2005, 07:52 pm
Added impressions of George T. Stagg to my front page post.
Title: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: Scott F. on 10 Dec 2005, 04:14 am
Hey Tyson,

I thought you'd appreciate this. This evening I was picking up a bottle of Scotch (a bottle of Strathisla 12 for the guys coming over tomorrow) and guess who was at the liquor store. Fred Noe (Jim Beam's Grandson) and the head distiller were there offering tasters of the Knob Creek 9 small batch. We talked for a bit. Both were very personable and came off as "good old boys".

His autograph is just above the label on the glass in gold.
(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=3460)

I had a quick taste at the store but I couldn't tell much because I was chewing gum which pretty much killed the taste. Needless to say since he autographed this bottle, I don't plan on opening it.

I thought it was pretty cool. I can't say that I've ever seen any distillery owners going on tour before but I'm not that close to the hardcore spirit-philes.

Thought you might get a kick out of the autograph.
Title: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: Marbles on 10 Dec 2005, 04:20 am
Scott,

As a single barrel bourbon drinker, I can definately say:COOL!!

Enjoy your bourbon in good health!
Title: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: ctviggen on 16 Dec 2005, 12:04 am
Well, I've rethought this bourbon thing, since my friend now has me driking scotch neat.  I can do bourbon neat, but it's still rough.  I currently have Elijah Craig, Woodford Reserve, and Michter's 10yo.  I think Michter's is the best, followed by WR then EC.  I also like Michter's American Whisky.  Michter's 10yo Bourbon is about $45 where I am.
Title: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: skrivis on 27 Jan 2006, 09:29 pm
Quote from: Marbles
Scott,

As a single barrel bourbon drinker, I can definately say:COOL!!

Enjoy your bourbon in good health!


The Knob Creek Small Batch is quite good. :)

I also like the Maker's Mark with the gold wax. (I'm not sure of the name.) Regular Maker's Mark is good too.

The various Jim Beam bourbons aren't bad, although not my favorite.

I thought that Jack Daniel's is a Tennessee bourbon instead of a Kentucky bourbon.

JD and other Tenn. bourbons I've tried make me nauseous. I'm fine with Kentucky bourbons. (Scotch makes me a bit nauseous too.)

But I have no problem with the Kentucky bourbons I've tried, and i like them.

I even brought a bottle of Maker's Mark down to Venezuela. They had never even heard of bourbon before. Most everyone drinks Scotch. (Their favorites are Johhny Walker Swing and Dimple; which in the US is called Pinch.) I did bring down some Glenlivet too and they really liked that. They had never seen a single malt Scotch before. They have a really wide variety of blended Scotch, but that's it.

They also have a wide variety of rums, and you can get a number of single barrel rums from small distilleries there. My favorite was actually Havana Club Dark Rum. Good stuff! :)
Title: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: LadyDog on 27 Jan 2006, 10:16 pm
Guys/Gals,
Try Old Pogue.  Good stuff, I thought at least on par or better than the Makers, Woodford, Jefferson, Knob Creek stuff.  I belive around the $45 a bottle mark.

Regards,
Jeff
Title: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: LadyDog on 17 Feb 2006, 07:51 pm
Had the opportunity the other weekend to try George T. Stagg.  As Tyson has already stated, an excellent bourbon.  Could easily taste the sweet overlay, kind of orange citrus in nature.  

Don't need much of the stuff, as my bottle was 141.7 proof.  Interesting thing about the Stagg, supposedly each batch has a different proof to it.  The write the proof on the bottle's label.

Highly recommend.

Regards,
Jeff
Title: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: skrivis on 17 Feb 2006, 08:09 pm
Quote from: LadyDog
Had the opportunity the other weekend to try George T. Stagg.  As Tyson has already stated, an excellent bourbon.  Could easily taste the sweet overlay, kind of orange citrus in nature.  

Don't need much of the stuff, as my bottle was 141.7 proof.  Interesting thing about the Stagg, supposedly each batch has a different proof to it.  The write the proof on the bottle's label.

Highly recommend.

Regards,
Jeff


Whew! That's potent stuff. Can you actually taste anything besides the ethanol? :)

I'd think this is a good case for Bourbon and branch water. :)
Title: Re: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: Thebiker on 21 Sep 2006, 02:33 pm
Personally, I'm a scotch drinker, but my Dad was a Jack Daniels drinker.  JD is most definitely NOT a bourbon.  It is a sour mash whiskey.  This was pointed out earlier in this thread, but obviously some folks don't get it.  My scientific side just wants to get it right.  My music loving artistic side doesn't really care.

Just my 2 cents towards accuracy.
Title: Re: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: BobC on 3 Nov 2006, 04:46 pm
I was inspired to dust off my bottle of Blantons.  Took it with crushed ice.  Very nice, though I'm not a connoisseur.  I liked it so much that I bought another bottle as a gift for a co-worker.  Any thoughts about Blantons?
Title: Re: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: chadh on 3 Nov 2006, 05:40 pm

Slightly off topic, but I thought I'd ask you knowledgeable folk about this.

Years ago, a Swiss friend of mine studying in the US told me that his father (a jet-setting French businessman, constantly back and forth between Paris and New York by Concorde) had introduced him to "pure rye whiskey."  This was pretty funny, as with his Swiss-French accent, he found it impossible to pronounce "pure rye whiskey."  But he tried.  Over and over again, we would visit liquor shops so he could ask if they had any "pure rye whiskey", only to be greeted with confusion.

Is there such a thing as "pure rye whiskey"?  And if so, is it usually made in shacks in the Appalachian backwoods?  Or, as my friend would have me believe, is it a delicacy, distilled lovingly in single barrel quantities and sold at astronomical prices in ritzy New York City lounges?

Chad
Title: Re: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: lonewolfny42 on 5 Nov 2006, 12:53 am

Slightly off topic, but I thought I'd ask you knowledgeable folk about this.

Years ago, a Swiss friend of mine studying in the US told me that his father (a jet-setting French businessman, constantly back and forth between Paris and New York by Concorde) had introduced him to "pure rye whiskey."  This was pretty funny, as with his Swiss-French accent, he found it impossible to pronounce "pure rye whiskey."  But he tried.  Over and over again, we would visit liquor shops so he could ask if they had any "pure rye whiskey", only to be greeted with confusion.

Is there such a thing as "pure rye whiskey"?  And if so, is it usually made in shacks in the Appalachian backwoods?  Or, as my friend would have me believe, is it a delicacy, distilled lovingly in single barrel quantities and sold at astronomical prices in ritzy New York City lounges?

Chad
Chad....Don't know the real answer to your question....but did find this about pure rye whiskey.... (http://worldofbeer.com/totm/totm-200201.html)....a term used before Prohibition......and another link.... (http://www.ellenjaye.com/maryland-baltimore.htm).... :o
Title: Re: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: chadh on 6 Nov 2006, 03:11 am

Many thanks, Mr Wolf.

Chad
Title: Re: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: maxwalrath on 6 Nov 2006, 03:19 am
Tyson, I bought the Elijah Craig as a gift a while back for a buddy....pretty much based on your review of it.  My buddy said he liked it a lot, and I got to try it recently and definitely agree. Very good stuff....thanks! :thumb: 
Title: Re: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: Don Maico on 7 Nov 2006, 07:04 pm
Hi
As a UK resident i have to say i much prefer bourbon to Scotch- Jack Daniels for me or better still Gentleman Jack, We over here are rather limited for choice I'm afraid but JD'll do nicely. Does it have French or maybe Cajun origin per chance? Just the name thats all
Title: Re: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: Don Maico on 8 Nov 2006, 07:25 am
Europeans are familiar with the name “bourbon” as a French royal family, but you may be surprised to learn that long ago American settlers named a county in the US after the French Bourbons as well. It is from this county that American Bourbon originates and got its name.
Title: Re: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: jcrane on 20 Nov 2006, 06:18 am
Well if I remember correctly I believe by LAW bourbon can only be produced in the state of KY.
Therefore Jack D can never be a bourbon but is a very popular TN whiskey!

Jamie
Title: Re: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: mrmusic on 20 Nov 2006, 07:34 am
The Elijah Craig is a great all rounder, most any whiskey drinker will like it.  The George T. Stagg is a monument to the whiskey maker's craft...to be taken with only a teaspoon of water and great reverence.  But,,,,,,,let us not ignore the complex and powerful, ten year old, cask strength Laphroiag.  Around 120 proof, and full of the wonderful "burnt rope, road tar, seaweed, marzipan, vanilla, toffee and chocolate" for which the better Scotches have become famous.  The drink is great, but the descriptive language makes audio reviews look positively tame.  Funny thing is, if you sip slowly and pay attention, you can actually taste all of those things in the Scotch.  A warning to newbies!  Only the good ones are worth your nickel...the rest is kerosene.  If you are just starting out, try the twelve year old Dalmore.  Rich but relatively mild and a distinct departure from Bourbon or sour mash.


"Eighty years old and never used glasses.....drank straight from the bottle"
Henny Youngman
Title: Re: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: TIC on 13 Dec 2006, 06:29 pm
Don Maico,

I thought the subject of Bourbon County, Kentucky may come up sooner or later in this thread. I was born there, in the city of Paris, KY and most of my family still live there.

Interestingly, there is not a single bourbon distiller in Bourbon County. However, many neaby counties have famous distilleries. My father was born in Woodford County which has several distilleries around its towns of Versailles and Lawrenceburg. Jefferson County KY also has several distillers I believe.

BTW, I'm not a bourbon drinker (well, not since high school in the 1970's). Is it true that anything sold as Bourbon must be produced in Kentucky? This would fall in line with the rules associated with Champagne and Cognac, right?

Enjoy,

TIC
Title: Re: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: ctviggen on 13 Dec 2006, 09:03 pm
Yep.  As for the bourbon v. scotch debate, I find a lot of the bourbons taste very similar, whereas the scotches can be quite different.  Compare, for instance, Ardbeg with Springbank with Belvanie with Lagavulin. 
Title: Re: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: ctviggen on 13 Dec 2006, 09:04 pm
For my personal tastes, it goes scotch, then irish whisky/whiskey, then bourbon.  Not sure where rye whiskeys fit here, though. 
Title: Re: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: LadyDog on 16 Jan 2007, 04:30 pm
Going over the list to see what I may not have tried yet.

I may be mistaken but if memory serves me, Bourbon doesn't have to be made in Kentucky, or specifically Bourbon County, to qualify as bourbon, but many think the state's limestone spring
water creates the best natural additive to the spirit. Bourbon does need to be made from a mash that's at least 51 percent corn, weigh in at less then 160 proof (or 80 percent alcohol) and have been aged for at least two years in new oak barrels, the inside of which has been charred to flavor and filter the whiskey.

Anyway, found a few more to add to my taste-bud list.
Title: Re: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: jake49er on 4 Mar 2007, 05:10 pm

The following is from "The Spirits of Kentucky: Small-Batch and Single-Barrel Bourbons Revive the Good Old Days of Whiskey" by Mark Vaughan appeared in Cigar Aficionado, Autumn 1993.

Full text at:
http://www.straightbourbon.com/history.html

Straight Kentucky Bourbon is to blended whiskey what a demarcated wine is to ordinary table wine. It takes its name from Bourbon county, Kentucky, once the major transshipment site for distilled spirits heading down the Ohio and Mississippi rivers to New Orleans. Barrels shipped from its ports were stamped with the county's name, and Bourbon and whiskey soon became synonymous. Today, 90 percent of all Bourbon is made in Kentucky, most of it in Jefferson, Franklin, Nelson, and Anderson counties, the heart of Bluegrass Country.

As with French-appellation wines, there are strict laws governing just what a Bourbon must be to be labeled as such. For example, at least 51 percent of the grain used in making the whiskey must be corn (most distillers use 65 to 75 percent corn). Bourbon must be aged for a minimum of two years in new, white oak barrels that have been charred. Nothing can be added at bottling to enhance flavor, add sweetness or alter color. Though technically Bourbon can be made anywhere, Kentucky is the only state allowed to put its name on the bottle. And as Kentucky distillers are quick to point out, Bourbon is not Bourbon unless the label says so.

Therefore, some very fine American whiskeys aren't called Kentucky Bourbon. Many look the same, and some even taste very similar, depending on their production style. Jack Daniels, a Tennessee sour mash whiskey, however, is charcoal-filtered, which many experts say gives it a different character. But up to and after the charcoal filtering, the Jack Daniels's production is much the same as any other Bourbon. Gentleman Jack, a superpremium entry into the whiskey field, also doesn't carry a Kentucky Bourbon designation. George Dickel is another highly rated Tennessee whiskey.

If Bourbon is the appellation wine of American whiskeys, then single-barrel and small-batch Bourbons are the grand crus of Bourbons. These superpremium, high-cost spirits should not be confused with single-malt Scotch, which simply denotes a Scotch from a single distillery that has not been blended with neutral spirits or whiskeys from other distilleries. Since no Bourbon is blended, it would all qualify under Scottish law as single malt.

Title: Re: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: jake49er on 4 Mar 2007, 05:18 pm
List of brands can be found at:

http://www.straightbourbon.com/brands.php?choice=bottling

Title: Re: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: ctviggen on 4 Mar 2007, 05:29 pm
I wish whoever makes the rules for bourbon would loosen the rules, because I personally think that bourbon is too similar.  I've tried quite a few different bourbons, and it's really hard to tell much of a difference between them.  The differences just are too small for my palate.  Contrast this with scotch, which has tremendous differences betweeen brands.  Compare Ardbeg 10 versus Clynelish versus Talisker 10 versus Springbank 15.  Each of these is dramatically different.  In fact, I no longer drink bourbon, and I gave away all my bourbon.
Title: Re: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: LadyDog on 22 Mar 2007, 09:06 pm
My father held his annual St. Patricks/Birthday party over the past weekend.   

The open bar consisted of: Blanton's, Jack Daniels Single Barrel, Kentucky Spirit, Rock Hills, Jeffersonville Reserve, Woodford Reserve, 1792, Makers Mark, and George T. Stagg. 

Was a sight for sore eyes.  Ment to take a picture of it.

At 140.6 proof, that Stagg has a definite kick to it.
Title: Re: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: G2moscode on 22 Mar 2007, 10:34 pm
Re: Bourbon!!!....

Don't get me wrong, I love my single malt scotches, but if I have to drink Bourbon, and there are those occasions,
I highly recommend Pappy Van Winkle's Family Reserve 23 years old.
http://www.oldripvanwinkle.com/newbs/vw/website3.nsf/docsbykey/HNEY-5FFM8C?opendocument

smooooooth.......

G
Title: Re: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: Imperial on 27 Apr 2007, 06:22 pm
I just got a bottle of Bache Gabrielsen FINS BOIS SINGLE ESTATE 1975. That's a 32 year old Cognac.
It's a Bouilleur de cru/Rene Gommet make from the little town Echallat in France.
I have bottle no. 0715 of a total of 1190 bottles.

Ah! No picture exists as of yet, but this is some incredible stuff!
Just sneaked a taste... A mellow fruity flavour, consisting of pruney Peary flavours. Some chanel and nutty flavours to, and a TOTAL absence of edge!!! Smooth like shit!!! Dude! This is some immense stuff!!!

Imperial
Title: Re: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: bsuhy on 6 May 2007, 03:02 am
what a great thread.....

i am very new to bourbon, but i have tried wild turkey kentucky bourbon and really liked it. i picked up a bottle of evan williams single barrel 10 year today and am on my second glass of the night. this is one bourbon that i will definitely keep around.
Title: Re: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: lazydays on 18 Jul 2007, 03:40 am
No Jim Beam Black label fans?

"In a recent independent study, the Beverage Testing Institute rated Jim Beam Black® highest among leading North American whiskeys for its overall nose, depth of flavor and finish. Every barrel is aged 8 years to achieve a full 86 proof and distinctive character that anyone can respect.
Beverage Testing Institute - Professional Tasting - Chicago, Illinois 2003

Wine Enthusiast Magazine rated Jim Beam Black Superb (90-95)/Highly Recommended in the American Whiskey category of the Top 60 Spirits for 2003. "  http://www.jimbeam.com/beam/v5/products/black_label.aspx

I always have at least one bottle of Jim Beam Black on hand. I rate it way better than Jack Daniels. Woodford Reserve is another favorite along with Evan Williams Private Celler (think that's what it called). But when I want to go on a good drunk I drink Grand Dad 101 strait up with some ice cubes to keep it interesting.
    In my old age I've also came to enjoy a good Irish Whiskey (I like Bushmiles), and a couple odd ball single malts. Depends on what mood I'm in.
gary
Title: Re: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: lazydays on 20 Jul 2007, 06:55 pm
you know with all this talk about small batch burbons and sour mash whiskeys, I noticed that nobody mentioned Wells 107. Have not had any in eons, but it's pretty good stuff.
gary
Title: Re: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: jimdgoulding on 29 Dec 2007, 04:47 am
Had a shoot out recently with a friend.  His pick- Jim Beam.  My pick- Maker's Mark.  His pick won.  Orange rinds were plainly obvious in the Maker's Mark as was a sweetness not present in the Jim Beam.  Made me think of designer liquor.  Jim Beam just tasted honest and mellow.
Title: Re: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: dullskull on 3 Jan 2008, 07:18 am
 Allright all you liquor snobs,
 I admit I'm a bottom feeder, and with that said, here's a couple to try that won't break the bank or your palette  for that matter.

 Evan Williams 1783 10 year old. about $11.00
 Old Forester Kentucky straight. about $14.00 :drool:

 All bourbon is whiskey; but not all whiskey is bourbon!!
Title: Re: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: gbeard on 3 Jan 2008, 01:22 pm
Somehow I missed this thread!

I've had a few sips in my day... :wink:

In no particular order:

Knob Creek small batch
Three Roses
Rebel Yell
Maker's Mark

We go to Louisville on a regular basis to play the ponies. A few weeks ago, we had a very nice dinner and whiskey tasting at the Maker's Mark restaurant on 4th St. Fun time and highly reco'd...

gb

Title: Re: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: acresm22 on 3 Jan 2008, 06:20 pm
I'll second Tyson's recommendation for the Eagle Rare 10. My bro-in-law and I enjoyed some of that over the holidays...very nice indeed.
Title: Re: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: loki1957 on 3 Jan 2008, 08:21 pm
Re: Bourbon!!!....

Don't get me wrong, I love my single malt scotches, but if I have to drink Bourbon, and there are those occasions,
I highly recommend Pappy Van Winkle's Family Reserve 23 years old.
http://www.oldripvanwinkle.com/newbs/vw/website3.nsf/docsbykey/HNEY-5FFM8C?opendocument

smooooooth.......

G
I've had 2 shots of this stuff. 25 bucks each and worth every penny. But who can afford a whole bottle? Not only that it's very hard to find. I did drink up a bottle of the 20 year old.
Title: Re: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: Russell Dawkins on 26 Mar 2008, 07:52 pm
Almost but not quite off topic:

I have recently discovered an amazing beer that would please a bourbon lover.

This beer - Innis & Gunn - is aged in oak bourbon barrels and is truly delicious. It is really a sipping drink.

Check it out - apparently it's available all over New York and New jersey, but not yet in Norway (sorry, Imperial!)

http://www.innisandgunn.com/index.htm
Title: Re: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: Imperial on 26 Mar 2008, 07:59 pm
Oh dang!!! :)

Me is in tears!!!  :cry:

 :drool:

I's a good thing my brother is in NY (sun valley these days.) His baggage just increased in weight.. :thumb:

Imperial
Title: Re: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: jimdgoulding on 6 Jun 2008, 04:07 am
Damn.  I'm tuning in here 3 years after Tyson's monumental study of bourbons but I guess I'm thankful I did.  My wife's Christmas office party is at our house this year and I pride myself on making the best egg nog in these parts.  I'll be on the look out for some George T. Stagg, you betcha.  Don't stone me for mixing it with egg nog.  It won't all be goin there.
Title: Re: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: Ericus Rex on 6 Jun 2008, 12:37 pm
My all time favorite bourbon is Noah's Mill.  I don't know if it's still distilled.  I could find it when I lived in GA but since moving up here to the Boston area it is nowhere to be found.  The guys at the liquor shops can't seem to find it for me either.  If any of you guys see this one in your store get it, it's definitely worth experiencing.  Very thick, like Pappy Van Winkle (but half the price), kinda like sucking on the barrel oak itself.

As for the question about Rye whiskey, I don't know what is meant by PURE rye whiskey but there are several brands of rye out there.  Old Overholt is a rye that's quite good and CHEAP.  Jim Beam makes a rye too.  It used to have a banana yellow label but they've recently changed it to parchment colored.  I've had a few others but I forget who distilled them...sorry.

15 year/107 proof Rip van Winkle is another all-time favorite.

Happy drinking!
Title: Re: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: loki1957 on 6 Jun 2008, 12:41 pm
Sazerak and Van Winkle have some very good Rye whiskeys as well. They can be hard to find at times especially the Van winkle.
Title: Re: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: Imperial on 8 Jun 2008, 08:57 pm
Almost but not quite off topic:

I have recently discovered an amazing beer that would please a bourbon lover.

This beer - Innis & Gunn - is aged in oak bourbon barrels and is truly delicious. It is really a sipping drink.

Check it out - apparently it's available all over New York and New jersey, but not yet in Norway (sorry, Imperial!)

http://www.innisandgunn.com/index.htm

Now we have Innis & Gunn here in Norway!
One has to order it online and get it at the outlet later on but still!
Now I'm gonna order some "barrels"  :thumb:
I'll get them in about two weeks I guess!

Imperial
Title: Re: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: Photon46 on 8 Jun 2008, 10:23 pm
The best low cost Bourbon I've found (to my tastes) is the seven year old J.L. Weller, pretty remarkable for the modest price IMO. Their twelve year old is smoother and more complex of course, and that's not too expensive either.
Title: Re: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: TRM on 8 Jul 2008, 02:54 am
this is what I've been drinking lately, http://www.stranahans.com/index.php?q=home

Title: Re: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: lonewolfny42 on 8 Jul 2008, 02:59 am
Speaking of Bourbon.... I had almost forgot to post this... (http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/25520630/?GT1=43001)... :thumb:
Title: Re: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: EARGASM on 5 Nov 2008, 11:16 pm
Removed by member.
Title: Re: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: Tyson on 6 Nov 2008, 07:12 am
Added Black Maple Hill 16 to the list.
Title: Re: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: acresm22 on 5 Jan 2009, 04:23 pm
Just enjoyed some Basil Hayden 8 yr. old for the Holidays. Very, very nice.
Title: Re: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: Imperial on 9 Jan 2009, 09:56 pm
Bache-Gabrielsen Pure & Rustic FINS BOIS Echallat Single Estate 1975 (René Gommet, 35 years old) I decided to go with 2 of these...
(http://www.bache-gabrielsen.com/gfx/produkter/pure_bois.jpg)


Bache G continues their Pure and Rustic series of extremely limited numbers ca 7-800 bottles per series.
I also have dibs on a bottle of Bache Gabrielsen Sérénité Très Vieille (Made by: Jean-Philippe Bergeier, Cognac is ca 35 years old...)
(http://img234.imageshack.us/img234/1086/sereniteda5.jpg)


Getting these babies soon, any day now. On order! (These are priced very moderate by Bache, $70 - $75 I think). Normally this old Cognac would be very pricey!!
This is the only Cognac I like. Anthing else I just think is to mellow. (I'm more of a whisky fan...) But this series is really something!!

Update:
Tasting Sérénité:
This is a Cognac with a mix of 50 year old and 35 year old parts of Ugni Blanc and Folle Blanche.
Smooth! Oh so smooth!!! Typical grande champagne (a bit of a bite at the end..)
Finite body, meaning it is like a decaying note on a piano... It slowly but firmly sets into a sort of cask taste.


Imperial



Title: Re: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: DeanSheen on 14 Jan 2009, 02:25 am
My story.

Been drinking Irish whiskey, scotch and tequila for years.  Every year around the holidays I get a whiskey related gift.  Last year it was Michael Jacksons Whiskey book, this year it was a pair of proper Waterford crystal tumblers and a copy of Whisky mag.  Also my in laws in England always send me a bottle of Scotch for Christmas.

Anyways I've always stayed away from Bourbon except for the last year when I have occasionally sampled around.

Was down in South Beach over New Years hanging out at our hotel which had no Irish whiskey and a lousy scotch collection.  Id already had the only tequila I was interested in so the bartender suggested some Woodford Reserve.  Ok, fine, I'll have a bourbon.  Tasted it and was immediately reminded of Red Breast which I love.  After I got home I researched it and found out that Woodford is a pot still like Readbreast which accounts for the similarities but it's 20 bucks a bottle cheaper which is nice.

So I ran down to the store today and grabbed a bottle of Woodford.  The store I go to in Cleveland here didn't have any of the bourbons I had been reading about so I had to come home and order a couple off the net.

I am eagerly awaiting bottles of:
    
Van Winkle Family Reserve, 13 Years Old

http://www.whiskymag.com/whisky/brand/van_winkle/whisky4354.html

&
    
Bernheim Original Straight Wheat Whiskey

http://www.whiskymag.com/whisky/brand/bernheim/whisky3121.html

Title: Re: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: lonewolfny42 on 15 Jan 2009, 11:02 pm
Kentucky bourbon facts..... Three Sheets - Kentucky..... (http://www.hulu.com/watch/12597/three-sheets-kentucky#x-0,vepisode,1).. :thumb:
Title: Re: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: ecir38 on 8 Feb 2009, 07:04 am
Old thread and just briefed through it and not sure if this has been mentioned yet but every bourbon lover should put this on his list to do.

http://www.kybourbonfestival.com/

The latest bourbon I have been enjoying is eagle rare 17 yr. old.

BR
Title: Re: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: DeanSheen on 8 Feb 2009, 03:51 pm
^^

How many other BTAC do you have from this year?  I've been enjoying the ERSB 10 yr old alot.

I'm going to go down for the Bardstown sampler this year.

Title: Re: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: ecir38 on 8 Feb 2009, 05:22 pm
Over the past year:

Russell Reserve to me is one of the better Wild Turkey's

Blanton's

Jefferson Reserve

to name a few

Ocasionally I will buy a bottle and keep it on the end table in the living room and sip on it a few times a night until all is gone. Not getting drunk just enjoying the flavor :green:.

BR
Title: Re: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: Imperial on 22 Feb 2009, 10:02 pm
Woah!

(http://www.bache-gabrielsen.com/gfx/produkter/pure_bois.jpg)

This one arrived finally! Talk about late delivery!!!
Over a month "missing" in transit!
But now I got it.  :o Norwegian postal services lost my first two bottles... (uhm, somebody nicked em?)
But I got two replacements!
Gave one away (present) and now I've tried the other one.
And seriously!!!
Cognac at it's finest for a price one can pay without having to cry about it!
Very suave stuff!
Mmmmmm!!!
Bache-Gabrielsen Pure & Rustic FINS BOIS Echallat Single Estate 1975. 35 years old liquid amber!!!

Definitely a connoisseurs Cognac this!

Here is how one drinks this:

1 cup of coffee, 1 glass of water, a measure of cognac.. in a nice glass. alternate between these vessels...
Ah! great stuff! You won't get drunk, but you will sip in life and smile!!!  :drool:

Impression:
Golden with an effervessent and greenish tinted hue. Wood is the starter here, cask, light leather, unsalted butter and a smoothe mellow apricot flavour. The aftertaste is a warmer and still warmer mix of wood and apricot that mellows out to a sort of oak taste.
My opinion: Dilute it with ca 2-3% water per volume.


Imperial
Title: Re: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: navi on 10 Mar 2009, 07:30 am
I Just had the The yamazaki 12yr old single malt by Suntory- It is bloody good!!! $86AUD it's better than a lot of 12 yr old single malt Scottish whiskies..... sweet and smooth with a beautiful after taste....

Who else likes it?
Title: Re: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: DeanSheen on 10 Mar 2009, 01:16 pm
Arghh!  This was recently on sale in CAN @ the LCBO for $40 USD and I missed it.


I Just had the The yamazaki 12yr old single malt by Suntory- It is bloody good!!! $86AUD it's better than a lot of 12 yr old single malt Scottish whiskies..... sweet and smooth with a beautiful after taste....

Who else likes it?
Title: Re: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: navi on 15 Mar 2009, 03:51 am
I recommend it!!!! it's worth it!!! even if you pay full price

I also just had the Lark Distillery Single Malt http://www.larkdistillery.com.au/our_products/overview.php (http://www.larkdistillery.com.au/our_products/overview.php)

It's not bad (smooth) ...Bloody expensive ($120 AUD) But I still prefer the Yamazaki.
Title: Re: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: ctviggen on 15 Mar 2009, 01:44 pm
This is a rye whisky, but I have to say it's outstanding (I'd rate in the low to mid 90s out of 100) and only about $60 ("only" means that many scotches in this range would cost much, much more):

http://www.internetwines.com/rws23903.html

Sazerac Rye  Whisky, 18 year old. 
Title: Re: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: navi on 16 Mar 2009, 12:27 am
This is a rye whisky, but I have to say it's outstanding (I'd rate in the low to mid 90s out of 100) and only about $60 ("only" means that many scotches in this range would cost much, much more):

http://www.internetwines.com/rws23903.html

Sazerac Rye  Whisky, 18 year old. 

Sounds good!! I don't think I will be able to get it in australia .... would love to try it.

I haven't had any American whiskies as of yet -apart from some bad experiences with Jack Daniels and Jim Beam when I was younger
Title: Re: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: pjanda1 on 16 Mar 2009, 07:39 pm
My personal favorites have been Wild Turkey Rare Breed (the first bottle I had, not the second, even though they were both from the same batch) and the old bottling of Bakers.  Though not Bourbon, Wild Turkey Rye belongs in my list of faves. 

The second tier of things I've tried includes things I find interesting, but not all around wonderful: Evan Williams Single Barrel (1997), W.L. Weller Antique, Eagle Rare 10 (I haven't had the old 101 proof, just the newer 90), Wild Turkey 101 and Old Forester Signature (100 proof, not to be confused with the commonly available 80).

My third tier includes things I find good, but not that interesting: Buffalo Trace, Old Fitzgerald Bottled in Bond, Woodford Reserve, Maker's Mark and George Dickel (not a Bourbon, I know, but a better Tennessee Whisky than JD).

And strangely, Blanton's was my most disappointing purchase.  Single Barrel bourbons vary greatly (I got a great Evan Williams SB, for example), and this one was just pretty sorry.  Too bad it is also the most expensive I've every bought.

I think it is unusual that I don't like Buffalo Trace products as much as most people.  You'll notice several in my second tier.  They are by far the biggest maker, they have a huge variety of products and folks seem to love them.  Most days, though, I'd take a Beam product (especially Knob Creek, Bookers or Bakers) or any Wild Turkey whiskey (well, not the 80 proof) over most any BT offering.  Weird, huh?

pj

Title: Re: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: Ericus Rex on 28 May 2009, 12:11 pm
I've introduced a number of friends to Noah's Mill and everyone is totally blown away by it.  I have only found it in Georgia.  Since moving to Boston I've been SOL.  If you find it, buy it.  I like it better then Pappy Van Winkle.  BTW, the 107 proof Rip Van Winkle is very excellent too!
Title: Re: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: keenween on 29 Jul 2009, 02:50 am
I moved to a new house and so I decided to throw down for a properly stocked liquor cabinet. I have a few scotches but I've been starting mostly on bourbon's. I usually just add a splash or two of distilled water, but I'm still experimenting. Here are some thoughts.

1792
I haven't opened this bottle yet, and I think its going out of production. I always found it a really great bottle for the price, but its been to long to give any real notes of its flavor.

Bakers 7
This just smacks me with fruit...and sometimes fig, almost tastes like punch sometimes upfront. It rounds out with a nice oaky finish.

Basil Hayden
This is my favorite so far. I gave it to my friend who is not so much into bourbon and he really liked it as well...its a bit more scotch-like. Its got honey and vanilla along with orange and oak, all very seamless and what tastes just right. I may change my notes after a few more tastings, I'm trying to spread my enjoyment of this bottle out over time.

Bookers
This will put hair on your chest. I agree with Tyson's notes on this one. Thick, intense and really really long layers of oak just wavering in the finish. I have to add a bit more water on this one. Not much to fault here.

Jim Beam White Label
I haven't had this much since college, but I drank plenty then. Probably won't pick any up...but this is where my whiskey journey began. I always enjoyed the woody profile, and drank if in quantity, would fire me up something special.

Makers Mark
I haven't had this for a while, I always really enjoyed its intensely sweet caramel and balanced vanilla profile.

Old Granddad (101 or 120 proof?...don't remember)
This is strong stuff best for maybe drinking in quantity or using as a mixer. It is really sharp with a lot of orange flavor in its profile.

Old Rip Van Winkle 15
I'm not sure what to think of this one yet. Its got kick, its got complexity, but I'm not sure I like it. I'm still working on what I really think is going on in its complexity, but I get a highly maple syrup taste going on at times which somewhat turns me off. Need some more time with this one.
Title: Re: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: Ericus Rex on 29 Jul 2009, 11:49 am
Please note that Jack Daniels is a whiskey, not a bourbon. Go to the Jack D web site (http://www.jackdaniels.com/home.asp), or better yet take the distillery tour, to get more related information. As an aside, when I was on the tour, it was interesting to hear how Mr. Daniels temper and a safe worked to end his life.

JD can't call it bourbon b/c it's distilled in Tennessee.  Kentucky has all legal rights to the classification "bourbon".  JD's recipe, though, would qualify it as bourbon if it were distilled in Ky.
Title: Re: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: Poultrygeist on 18 Mar 2010, 05:39 pm
It's Fightin' Cock if you tailgate at Williams Brice.
Title: Re: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: ctviggen on 18 Mar 2010, 05:45 pm
You should also consider Ryes.  A $60 bottle of Rye blows away most scotches or bourbons.  The Sazarac Thomas Handy and 18 yo are both outstanding and are some of the best whiskey I've had.  Easily in the top 10 if not the top 5.  The Old Potrero ryes are great too, but hard to find and completely different from the latter ryes.
Title: Re: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: TF1216 on 18 Mar 2010, 06:44 pm
I currently have at home bottles of George T. Stagg, William Larue Weller, an experimental batch of 16 yr. bourbon from Buffalo Trace, and 20 year Pappy Van Winkle.  I have not opened the experimental bottle yet.

I still like the bottle of George T. Stagg the most because I typically drink alone.  It has the most character to me and it has a kick I enjoy when alone.  There have been nights I have chosen the William Larue Weller over the George T. Stagg due its sweeter taste and it being easier to relax with.  To me the Pappy Van Winkle tastes the most like an expensive bourbon.  It is 90 proof which is much less than the other two bottles described.  If I was drinking with company the Pappy Van Winkle is the bourbon I would share.
Title: Re: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: roscoeiii on 18 Mar 2010, 06:50 pm
Yeah, sharing the Stagg on an unsuspecting guest would not be a great idea. Though it is the pinnacle of bourbon for me. It just does things, and goes places that others don't. Sadly, didn't like this year's version as much as some of the previous ones. A little sweeter than I prefer this year.
Title: Re: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: KnowTalent on 4 Sep 2010, 07:24 pm
I was inspired to dust off my bottle of Blantons.  Took it with crushed ice.  Very nice, though I'm not a connoisseur.  I liked it so much that I bought another bottle as a gift for a co-worker.  Any thoughts about Blantons?

I'm not a big fan of most bourbon/whiskey but I do keep a bottle of Blantons in the freezer for special occasions as it reminds me of my favorite...Bushmills 16 yr old three cask  :thumb:

Title: Re: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: jazzcourier on 4 Sep 2010, 11:31 pm
I.W. Harper out of a paper bag while sitting in the back seat of a broken down car listening to Merle Haggard on the Eight Track. Right outside Bakersfield,too far to walk and too drunk to care.
Title: Re: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: Mitsuman on 7 Oct 2010, 09:01 pm
My go-to bourbon is Woodford Reserve, but my budget leads to me buying Bulleit for normal consumption. If I splurge, I go for the Blantons.
Title: Re: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: jackman on 7 Oct 2010, 09:30 pm
My go-to bourbon is Woodford Reserve, but my budget leads to me buying Bulleit for normal consumption. If I splurge, I go for the Blantons.

I have not read every page of this thread but wanted to commend you on your choices, particularly the Woodford.  I've been to the facility (this was my line of work at one time) and have tasted lots of Bourbons (among other things) and Woodford is my favorite.  It's also the favorite of several of my friends who develop alcoholic beverages for a living.  Thankfully, I still get to work on alcoholic beverage development but mainly flavored items. 
Title: Re: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: Mitsuman on 8 Oct 2010, 04:54 pm
I have not read every page of this thread but wanted to commend you on your choices, particularly the Woodford.  I've been to the facility (this was my line of work at one time) and have tasted lots of Bourbons (among other things) and Woodford is my favorite.  It's also the favorite of several of my friends who develop alcoholic beverages for a living.  Thankfully, I still get to work on alcoholic beverage development but mainly flavored items.

Thanks for the kind words.  :D For the price, Bulleit is actually quite good. And I'm envious of your line of work. :beer:
Title: Re: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: Tyson on 8 Oct 2010, 09:13 pm
I find that bourbons tend to vary over time, sometimes certain ones will be better than others, and other times vice-versa.  Lately Buffalo Trace has really been hitting it out of the park.  Pick one up and check it out.  The below statements are all IMO:

Best Overall Bourbon Straight:
George T. Stagg

Best Mixing Bourbon:
Maker's Mark

Best Inexpensive Straight Bourbon:
Woodford's Reserve

Best Current Bargain:
Buffalo Trace
Title: Re: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: LadyDog on 3 Nov 2010, 02:35 am
Wow, haven't viewed this thread in a while.  Not sure why not since Bourbon is pretty much all I drink. 

Tyson your last post hits home with me.  Pretty much nailed it for my tastes.  Hard to believe Maker's doesn't get much street cred around here. 

Quote
Best Overall Bourbon Straight:
George T. Stagg

Best Mixing Bourbon:
Maker's Mark

Best Inexpensive Straight Bourbon:
Woodford's Reserve

Best Current Bargain:
Buffalo Trace
Title: Re: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: Ericus Rex on 9 Nov 2010, 09:39 pm
I raise my glass to you, Daniel!
Title: Re: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: koyaan on 20 Nov 2010, 03:09 am
I've always been partial to Makers so I jumped on their "46" when I saw some rectenly. It was nice, but I really wasn't blown away.
Title: Re: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: Diamond Dog on 6 Feb 2011, 06:04 am
I have long been a bourbon drinker and am a dedicated Woodford fan. I was standing in the bourbon section in a liquor store here one day a few years back and as I pondered whether or not to deviate from what was at that time my poison of choice ( Knob Creek ), I was looking at the tag on a bottle of Woodford Reserve. A man in a trenchcoat came up to me and said: " Sir ! Do not hesitate! You will NOT regret that decision !" and walked away. I took the Woodford's to the till and must say that I have not regretted that decision to this day...
It always amuses me when I see people in this thread referring to Woodford as an " inexpensive " bourbon...I live in Canada and the liquor is heavily taxed... U.S. Audiocircle members would take up temperance if they had to pay what I pay for a bottle of decent bourbon ( but I'm not bitter...).

D.
Title: Re: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: santacore on 6 Feb 2011, 04:54 pm
As a recent convert to Bourbon, I've been really enjoying sampling the various offerings. My current favorites are Rowan's Creek and Black Maple Hill, neat or with a splash of water. For mixing, the current house favorite is Bulleit with ginger ale.

The Woodford Reserve is good stuff, but I prefer the others for the money.
Title: Re: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: roscoeiii on 6 Feb 2011, 05:13 pm
And while I was less of a fan of last year's Stagg (too sweet for my taste), this year's is perhaps my favorite ever. George T. Stagg I salute you.

But folks, do be careful with this one. It packs a mighty wallop.
Title: Re: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: santacore on 8 Aug 2011, 11:50 pm
Just got some Angel's Envy. http://www.angelsenvy.com/whiskey/ (http://www.angelsenvy.com/whiskey/)

Great stuff from the hand of Lincoln Henderson. Really nice finish thanks to be aged in port barrels. Recommended!!!
Title: Re: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: Æ on 29 Oct 2011, 04:50 am
I like Bourbon, but my alcohol budget is limited, so I usually buy whatever is on sale. :(
Right now I'm drinking Ancient Age.
I personally don't like Jack Daniels, I seem to gravitate towards Ten High, probably no better than any other, but I can down it straight.

(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=53125)
Title: Re: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: roscoeiii on 29 Oct 2011, 02:12 pm
On the inexpensive side of things, check out. Heaven Hill, JTS Brown (of The Hustler fame), and. Rittenhouse. I prefer thebonded 100 proof versions if you can find them.
Title: Re: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: Ericus Rex on 29 Oct 2011, 05:00 pm
The white label Dickel is good and cheap.  Last time I bought it was about $12 bottle...probably $30 now that bourbon is chic    :roll:

Agree with you on the JD.  Can't drink that crap straight up so why bother?
Title: Re: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: EthanH on 12 Aug 2012, 11:26 pm
Enjoyed some bourbon this weekend.  I like scotch and am new to bourbon.  In the past I thought bourbon was inferior to scotch because all I would taste is vanilla, maple/corn syrup, oak, and perhaps some charcoal, but I realize now I just haven't tried any bourbon that I like.  Here are my thoughts on a few:

Four Roses Small Batch - I really liked this.  I thought it  was very well balanced for a bourbon and had a good mouthfeel.  Vanilla, oak, dulce de leche, spice, and even a bit of smoke.  Overall I would say it's on par with many single malts you can get at the ~$40 price point, making it a great value.  Smooth and velvety goodness.

Woodford Reserve - This stuff is syrupy, has some nutmeg, vanilla, and cinnamon spice, and charcoal.  A chewy, decent bourbon that you can get at most any bar and is much better, in my opinion, than maker's mark or the other widely available bourbons that I've tried (for instance, beam, knob, and, though not a bourbon, jack daniels).

Bakers - Good stuff.  Big oak, maple syrup, and spice, with vanilla and char present as well.  More bold than Four Roses SB but not as balanced, imo.  I like this more than Woodford but less than Four Roses SB.

Bulleit Rye - can't say I cared much for this.  It had a very prominent peppermint zing to it that was really unusual and interesting, along with herbal notes that I haven't found in any whiskey, American or otherwise.  Otherwise, I just thought it had a thin mouthfeel and the alcohol was more prominent than I like.

Pritchard's Double Chocolate - This stuff is pretty awesome.  The nose is big cocoa - not milk chocolate, but dark, delicious cocoa.  It's a well balanced bourbon though, and the cocoa recedes into the background on the palate, which is otherwise dominated by burnt sugar, oak, spice, and white chocolate.  Finishes dry with cocoa and char.  I want to clarify that this stuff is most definitely not a liqueur, and you will know that it's bourbon on your palate - however, it has big, beautiful cocoa nose that is unlike any other whiskey that I've tried.  A very interesting whiskey, and while I perhaps couldn't sip this all night like Four Roses SB, it definitely deserves a spot in my cabinet.

Title: Re: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: Tyson on 13 Aug 2012, 12:10 am
Speaking of Bulliet Rye, it makes a great base for a Manhattan.  The spiciness balances the sweet vermouth very nicely.
Title: Re: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: gbeard on 13 Aug 2012, 12:14 am
Ericus Rex, I like Dickel too, but it an JD are Tennessee Whiskies.


Bourbon:

Go to every day for a mixer: Maker's Mark, Bulleit

Poker game shot: Rebel Yell, Knob Creek

Sippin' neat: Four Roses small batch, Woodford, Buffaloe Trace, Baker's

Sprinkled with a bit of branch: Pappy 20!

My current fave: Willetts Family Reserve Single Barrel (hand selected--barrel proof 127.5)  :bowdown:

I'm gonna keep trying new ones. I want to buy a bottle of Parker's next.
Title: Re: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: setamp on 13 Aug 2012, 12:42 am
Basil Hayden is my favorite.  I would like to try the new Woodford Doubled Oak.
Title: Angel’s Envy Bourbon
Post by: jakelieb on 14 Aug 2012, 02:41 pm
Angel’s Envy Bourbon

http://thehangedman.com/whiskey/2012/angels-envy/ (http://thehangedman.com/whiskey/2012/angels-envy/)

http://gearpatrol.com/2011/10/20/tasting-notes-angel%E2%80%99s-envy-bourbon/ (http://gearpatrol.com/2011/10/20/tasting-notes-angel%E2%80%99s-envy-bourbon/)


(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=66453)
Title: Re: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: fado on 14 Aug 2012, 03:44 pm
I too like Basil Hayden - mainly because it tastes good yet remains at 80 proof. I like a second drink that I can remember.
Title: Re: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: Marbles on 31 Oct 2012, 03:25 pm
This years batch of Pappy Van Winkle, George T. Stagg et al  are in stores now.

George T Stagg has been Wine Spectators "Spirit of the Year" two years in a row.

Title: Re: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: roscoeiii on 31 Oct 2012, 03:32 pm
Yes indeed. And this year's Stagg is excellent.
Title: Re: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: TF1216 on 31 Oct 2012, 05:01 pm
Thanks guys.  I have been waiting for Stagg.  I was expecting it a couple of weeks ago.
Title: Re: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: santacore on 31 Oct 2012, 06:31 pm
I'll have to keep an eye out for the current Stagg. Lately I've been enjoying the Dickel small batch, as my daily drink. I've read it's very inconsistent, but I'm enjoying my bottle. I think I will pick up another Angels Envy for the holidays, which I find light and tasty. Another I've enjoyed lately is the "Big Bottom Whiskey" port barrel. It's from a small company in Oregon. I rolled the dice on that one, but liked it.
Title: Re: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: lonewolfny42 on 12 Feb 2013, 06:18 am
(http://www.gannett-cdn.com/media/USATODAY/GenericImages/2013/02/11/_makers-mark-4_3_r536_c534.jpg?1b79b3da202957124496e3768cfb7b67cdb10c81)

Maker's Mark ....getting ...."watered down"... (http://www.usatoday.com/story/news/nation/2013/02/11/makers-mark-bourbon/1910773/)  :o
Title: Re: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: kenreau on 12 Feb 2013, 06:39 am
I'll throw in two thumbs up for Big Bottom as well.  I'm in Portland, maybe 5 miles from their facility.   I originally found out about it two summers ago from a mechanic guy that works on my Audi.  At the time he was helping them do the bottling on the side and suggested I check them out.  Blanton's is still my top pick, but Big Bottom is very close for about 60% of the cost.  I read they are also venturing in to making wines.

Kenreau

I'll have to keep an eye out for the current Stagg. Lately I've been enjoying the Dickel small batch, as my daily drink. I've read it's very inconsistent, but I'm enjoying my bottle. I think I will pick up another Angels Envy for the holidays, which I find light and tasty. Another I've enjoyed lately is the "Big Bottom Whiskey" port barrel. It's from a small company in Oregon. I rolled the dice on that one, but liked it.
Title: Re: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: kenreau on 12 Feb 2013, 06:42 am
What is the availability of Pappy Van Winkle?  A good buddy gave me a bottle for my 50th and I haven't been able to find any locally.  I'm in Oregon and have been told only the bars and restaurants can get it (occasionally).  Next to impossible to find here.

Can anyone fill me in on how to get a bottle or two, short of making a trip to Frankfort?

Thanks
Kenreau

This years batch of Pappy Van Winkle, George T. Stagg et al  are in stores now.

George T Stagg has been Wine Spectators "Spirit of the Year" two years in a row.
Title: Re: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: roscoeiii on 12 Feb 2013, 02:59 pm
What is the availability of Pappy Van Winkle?  A good buddy gave me a bottle for my 50th and I haven't been able to find any locally.  I'm in Oregon and have been told only the bars and restaurants can get it (occasionally).  Next to impossible to find here.

Can anyone fill me in on how to get a bottle or two, short of making a trip to Frankfort?


Pappy is very hard to find. Especially the 20. Each year'a batches sell out quite quickly around here (Chicago).
Title: Re: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: Bob in St. Louis on 12 Feb 2013, 03:01 pm
Maker's Mark ....getting ...."watered down"... (http://www.usatoday.com/story/news/nation/2013/02/11/makers-mark-bourbon/1910773/)  :o
I wonder if a bottle of "pre-watered down" Makers Mark will be more valuable later down the road. A collectors item so to speak.
It's a shame I've already opened my bottle.  :lol:
Title: Re: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: rollo on 12 Feb 2013, 03:19 pm
Blanton's if not mentioned before.


charles
Title: Re: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: WireNut on 12 Feb 2013, 05:25 pm
Maker's Mark ....getting ...."watered down"... (http://www.usatoday.com/story/news/nation/2013/02/11/makers-mark-bourbon/1910773/)  :o

If there going to water it down I think they should drop the price.

Pennington is good.
Title: Re: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: Letitroll98 on 12 Feb 2013, 05:44 pm
I'll add a second to gbeard's mention of Buffalo Trace as a great sippin' whiskey.  I got a bottle on a whim as it was $2 cheaper than Makers and ended up liking it better.
Title: Re: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: santacore on 13 Feb 2013, 05:56 am
Agreed, I'll take the Buffalo Trace over Makers.

High West has been another pleasant surprise lately. Their Rendezvous Rye is really smooth and tasty. It's definitely a new label that's worth a shot.
Title: Re: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: kenreau on 15 Feb 2013, 03:33 am
I'm on the left coast (Oregon).  I would like to get a bottle, or two, of 15 year +/- of  Pappy Van Winkles. 

Can anyone fill me in if its possible (mail order, private party, etc) short of making a trip to Frankfort? 

Thanks
Kenreau
Title: Re: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: Letitroll98 on 15 Feb 2013, 04:11 am
Agreed, I'll take the Buffalo Trace over Makers.

High West has been another pleasant surprise lately. Their Rendezvous Rye is really smooth and tasty. It's definitely a new label that's worth a shot.

Ooh, that's interesting, I'm a big Rye whiskey fan as I make Manhattans the original, old fashioned way using Rye instead of the more popular and modern Canadian Whiskey recipe.  There's just no comparison, you'd never go back after using a good Rye.  Rye's are very different for sippin', spicy and up front, you have to go for that type of taste.  Very hard to find a Rye in most bars, the bartenders look at you like you're from Mars when you ask.  Of course they're mostly kids, even at the top shelf places I go.  Anyway, thanks muchly for the recommendation, I'll look for it.

For a strange bourbon recommendation, let me suggest Jim Beam Devil's Cut.  I thought it would be another bland JB consumer product (I do like their Rye) but was quite surprised.  Kind of like Jack Daniels on steroids, lots of wood and spice, but smooth and velvety, with a bit of complexity.  I was very surprised how this low cost product punched above it's weight.     
Title: Re: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: DaveC113 on 15 Feb 2013, 04:59 am
I just got into whiskey, so far I have tried

-Stranahan's--- very good but it seems overpriced at $60. I got it on sale for $45, this seems more reasonable. Not sure I'd buy this again even at $45 after trying Woodford though.

-Breckenridge-- good, moderately expensive. I live near Boulder so I want to try the local offerings. Might buy again, but only if it were on sale for around $30... retail at $45-50 seems high.

-Leopold Bros small batch from open fermented sour mash. I guess this isn't a bourbon, but it's really good. Is sour mash an all corn whiskey?

-Laird's Straight Apple Brandy, 100 proof BOB. Definitely not a Bourbon, but really nice for $20 if you can get past the strong alcohol bite in the beginning. You get used to it  :thumb:

-Woodford, I got it on sale for $30 and it's one of the best liquors I've ever tried nevermind just whiskey. I like it better than Breck or Stranahans which cost more, this stuff is just amazing.
Title: Re: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: Tyson on 15 Feb 2013, 05:08 am
Ooh, that's interesting, I'm a big Rye whiskey fan as I make Manhattans the original, old fashioned way using Rye instead of the more popular and modern Canadian Whiskey recipe.  There's just no comparison, you'd never go back after using a good Rye.  Rye's are very different for sippin', spicy and up front, you have to go for that type of taste.  Very hard to find a Rye in most bars, the bartenders look at you like you're from Mars when you ask.  Of course they're mostly kids, even at the top shelf places I go.  Anyway, thanks muchly for the recommendation, I'll look for it.

For a strange bourbon recommendation, let me suggest Jim Beam Devil's Cut.  I thought it would be another bland JB consumer product (I do like their Rye) but was quite surprised.  Kind of like Jack Daniels on steroids, lots of wood and spice, but smooth and velvety, with a bit of complexity.  I was very surprised how this low cost product punched above it's weight.     

I'm a rye based Manhattan man myself.  If you get a chance, give the Bulliet Rye a shot - it's pretty phenomenal in a Manhattan. 
Title: Re: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: ratso on 27 Feb 2013, 05:47 pm
so very bizarre. i searched for this thread because i haven't seen it in a while to ask if anyone is on a rye thing like i have been lately. have lately tried knob creek (good), bulleit (better) and templeton (damn yummy). i drink my whisky neat, like a man should.  :lol:
Title: Re: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: MaxCast on 7 Jul 2013, 09:07 pm
As some may know my wife went to TN and brought back a nice bottle of Four Roses for me.
She read the good response that followed my what are you drinking now post.  :D

She bought some Angles Envy for her boss a DDS that likes bourbon aged in port wine barrels.
She wants to know how she did on this one??


(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=83244)


She admits the liquor shop fella helped her out.  And wanted things found "locally"
Any body ever try it??


Title: Re: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: ton1313 on 8 Jul 2013, 12:26 am
Angels envy is really good :drool: :drool:

Very tasty and smooth, enjoy :thumb:
Title: Re: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: santacore on 8 Jul 2013, 12:34 am
Angels Envy is nice stuff, I just picked up another bottle a few weeks ago. My only knock is that it's a bit thin and light on the tongue. I think if they bottled it at a slightly higher proof it would be even tastier. That said, I really do enjoy the flavors and love the port barrel finish.
Title: Re: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: buyersremorse on 25 Jul 2013, 04:43 pm

(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=84145)

My friends and I liked it "this much" at a recent party.  Other bourbon choices were barely touched. 
As an occasional bourbon drinker, I really like it.
Title: Re: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: oledude on 4 Aug 2013, 04:27 am
At the risk of creating more demand for this and making it harder to find - Elmer T Lee.  Smooth!!
Do try it if you can.
Title: Re: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: sts9fan on 4 Feb 2014, 04:14 pm
I picked up a bottle of Parker's Heritage 7th Edition "Promise of hope" on Saturday.  This is great stuff.  I have a bottle of the 6th edition also which is really great.
http://sourmashmanifesto.com/2013/11/03/review-parkers-heritage-collection-2013-bourbon-promise-of-hope/
(http://sourmashmanifesto.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/parkers-heritage-bourbon-290x290.jpg)
Title: Re: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: Carl V on 4 Feb 2014, 06:54 pm
(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=94167)

a little tasting
Title: Re: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: HsvHeelFan on 4 Feb 2014, 07:13 pm
You need a bottle of Blanton's in that pic.

I found the Angels Envy to have no character whatsoever. Nice bottle.  I just found it to be bland.

HsvHeelFan
Title: Re: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: sts9fan on 4 Feb 2014, 07:20 pm
I have not had the tenacity necessary to get a bottle of Pappy this year.  I don't want to have to try too hard.  I drink Wellers 107 if I want to get close. 
Title: Re: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: Rubbbq on 4 Feb 2014, 07:20 pm
Pappy Van is the stuff :thumb:
Title: Re: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: roscoeiii on 4 Feb 2014, 10:41 pm
Pappy Van is the stuff :thumb:

yeah, scored a Pappy 15 this year and it was glorious. Coming from someone who is in general not as big a fan of the wheated whiskeys.
Title: Re: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: jupiterboy on 4 Feb 2014, 10:47 pm
I usually go for Evan, but the Beam Black Double is pretty good for the price. Weller Special Reserve is my favorite wheated.
Title: Re: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: mav52 on 4 Feb 2014, 11:43 pm
Eagle Rare Single Barrel Bourbon 10 YO Whiskey

Pappy Van Winkle's 23-Year-Old

Give them a try
Title: Re: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: Rubbbq on 4 Feb 2014, 11:48 pm
Eagle rare is Pappy's little brother, then Buffalo Trace ...
Title: Re: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: Ericus Rex on 5 Feb 2014, 12:17 am
I have not had the tenacity necessary to get a bottle of Pappy this year.  I don't want to have to try too hard.  I drink Wellers 107 if I want to get close.

Try the Rip van Winkle Family Reserve.  Cheaper than Pappy's (a little) and a lighter flavor too.  Used to be their 12 yr 107.  Got some good reviews and the price went up with a fancier bottle.  Still worth it IMO
Title: Re: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: sts9fan on 5 Feb 2014, 01:04 am
The RVW is still pretty hard to find. I have never seen it in a store.
Title: Re: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: santacore on 5 Feb 2014, 02:50 am
I just picked up this silver bourbon by High West.
(http://www.highwest.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/OMG-Web.png)

For a young bourbon, it's very smooth and tastes great. Very different profile from you typical aged offering, but unique and great none the less.
Title: Re: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: Ericus Rex on 5 Feb 2014, 11:50 am
The RVW is still pretty hard to find. I have never seen it in a store.

My local Kappy's carries it; the big one at the 16/Fellsway traffic circle in Everett...at least they did last time I was in that one.  Haven't seen it at the smaller Kappy's.
Title: Re: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: ctviggen on 5 Feb 2014, 02:01 pm
I just picked up this silver bourbon by High West.
(http://www.highwest.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/OMG-Web.png)

For a young bourbon, it's very smooth and tastes great. Very different profile from you typical aged offering, but unique and great none the less.

That's actually a rye not a bourbon.  A bourbon has to have > 50% corn, whereas a rye has to have > 50% rye (I believe).  In the whiskey you cited above, it's 100% rye (not to mention it's not from Kentucky and therefore technically can't be called a bourbon anyway). 

Personally, I like ryes a lot and also like bourbons with a high percentage of rye.  I think I've had High West's Rendezvous Rye, which I thought was quite good.  I didn't know they made so many different whiskeys though.
Title: Re: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: sts9fan on 5 Feb 2014, 02:45 pm
High West Campfire is amazing.
Title: Re: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: santacore on 5 Feb 2014, 04:23 pm
High West Campfire is amazing.

Yeah, great stuff!! I great bourbon with a scotch like peety-ness

ctviggen, of course you're right, this is technically a Rye, not a bourbon. It's young and not aged in wood like most bourbon/ryes. The smell reminds me of a good tequila. It's surprisingly complex with interesting flavors. I'm digging it!
Title: Re: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: ctviggen on 5 Feb 2014, 04:49 pm
They look very interesting.  It's hard to get some of these whiskeys here in CT for some reason.  I think I've only seen one bottle from this distiller, and it's the one I bought.  Want vodka?  You can have nine million of those.  Want rye or anything other than "generic" bourbons?  You have to look hard.

I like tequila, too.  It's a different taste and can be "fresher" in many ways. 
Title: Re: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: Ericus Rex on 5 Feb 2014, 05:24 pm
They look very interesting.  It's hard to get some of these whiskeys here in CT for some reason.  I think I've only seen one bottle from this distiller, and it's the one I bought.  Want vodka?  You can have nine million of those.  Want rye or anything other than "generic" bourbons?  You have to look hard.

I like tequila, too.  It's a different taste and can be "fresher" in many ways.

When I first moved to Boston from Georgia I had an impossible time finding my favorite bourbons.  It's Scotch country up here.  On my first trip back down to pick up the last of my crap I went by my then-favorite booze depot and bought every single bottle of my favorites they had; 11 total!  I can only imagine the judgment laid on me in the mind of the cashier.  Been savoring ever since and so I still have some of that vintage stash.  Bourbon's slowly invaded since then but, sadly, the prices are now approaching Scotch prices.
Title: Re: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: santacore on 17 Mar 2014, 03:00 am
Not Bourbon, but still tasty whiskey. It's a shame that they don't sell this stuff in the U.S., as it's way more enjoyable then the domestic Jack.


(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=96461)
Title: Re: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: CSJ on 17 Dec 2014, 03:00 am
Whistle Pig - top shelf
Gunpowder rye - not your everyday rye, big, bold, and smooth.
Bib and Tucker - top shelf, as good as Whistle Pig, maybe better.


(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=110541)

(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=110539)

(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=110540)
Title: Re: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: HsvHeelFan on 17 Dec 2014, 05:31 am
I'm drinking a glass of Woodford Reserve 4 Wood. 

HsvHeelFan
Title: Re: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: Hank on 27 Feb 2015, 05:50 pm
My fav so far is Blantons - how smooth!
Title: Re: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: santacore on 28 Feb 2015, 05:06 am
Blanton's is nice and smooth, but I prefer something with a little more kick such as Bookers. Delicious...

My fav so far is Blantons - how smooth!
Title: Re: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: Kenneth Patchen on 1 Mar 2015, 06:49 pm
What does a Scotsman smell like under his kilt?


http://www.cnet.com/news/these-clothes-smell-like-johnnie-walker-whisky-on-purpose/


(didn't know where to post this)
Title: Re: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: santacore on 21 Oct 2015, 11:06 pm
Any AC'ers able to get some of the special releases coming out in fall? Pappy, Buffalo Trace Antique, etc.?

Here in California it's ridiculously hard to find anything on the shelves. Years back maybe, but nowadays it's all back door deals. A real bummer.
Title: Re: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: Bob in St. Louis on 21 Oct 2015, 11:50 pm
Did know BT had an antique. I'll have to look for that one.
Title: Re: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: santacore on 22 Oct 2015, 12:01 am
Yes, there is a collection that comes out every fall. 5 different offering under different names, each with their own unique character.

https://www.buffalotracedistillery.com/brands/antique-collection (https://www.buffalotracedistillery.com/brands/antique-collection)

Unfortunately it's becoming unobtainable, at least here in So. California.
Title: Re: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: Bob in St. Louis on 22 Oct 2015, 12:09 am
Nice. Thank you!
Title: Re: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: Bob in St. Louis on 3 Jan 2016, 02:51 am
"Bump".
Nothing exceptional, but here's what's in the lineup;

(http://i85.photobucket.com/albums/k60/BobinStLouis/Food/Booze/DSC_0031_zpsnjjv8cof.jpg)
Title: Re: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: youravhandyman on 3 Jan 2016, 05:23 am
(http://images.costco-static.com/image/media/350-888863-847__1.jpg)

Hey Bob, here's the latest bottle I've added to class up the joint.  It is pretty good, but I'm going back to Four Roses for my more frequent enjoyment.

Matt
Title: Re: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: mresseguie on 3 Jan 2016, 05:33 am
Oh, nice.

There is a single malt whiskey (not Scotch) here that is very special. It's called Kavalan Cask Strength Solist. It's approximately 58.6% (forgot exact %) alc. The whiskey is stored in Sherry barrels for a time before it is bottled in numbered bottles. There is another one where the whiskey is stored in Bourbon barrels, but I have not tried this one.

It's quite likely one of the best single malt whiskeys I have ever consumed.

It's possible that it does not exist outside of Taiwan. [Edit: It can be purchased outside of Taiwan -700ml approximate price is $150USD.] Even here it is only sold in a few locations, but costs 'just' $88USD. I plan to take a bottle or two back to the States when we return in March. I also plan to attend LSAF this year.  8)

http://time.com/3753768/world-best-whisky-taiwan-kavalan-world-whiskies-awards/
Title: Re: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: WGH on 24 Nov 2016, 01:59 am
(http://hamiltondistillers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/classic-tilt.jpg)

One of my favorites is Whiskey Del Bac from Hamilton Distillers, an award winning small artisan distillery right here in Tucson, AZ.
http://hamiltondistillers.com/ (http://hamiltondistillers.com/)

All 3 types (Classic, Dorado, and Clear) are single malt whiskeys and everything is done in house, they malt their own barley, then mash, ferment, distill, barrel and bottle under one roof. The mesquite smoked Dorado is the essence of the Southwest in a bottle. Hamilton's whiskeys are very, very smooth, fairly light with great flavors.

Awards

2016 San Francisco World Spirits Competition:
   Silver: Craft Spirits – Whiskey Del Bac Classic

2016 American Craft Spirits Association:
   Bronze: Whiskey – Whiskey Del Bac Classic

2015 New York International Spirits Competition:
   Bronze:  Whiskey – Whiskey Del Bac Classic

2015 New York International Spirits Competition:
   Arizona Distillery of the Year

2015 American Craft Spirits Association:
   Gold:  Whiskey – Whiskey Del Bac Classic

2014  Great American Distillers Festival:
   Double Gold Best In Show: Single Malt Less than 1 Year – Whiskey Del Bac Classic

2014  Great American Distillers Festival:
   Gold: Single Malt Less than 1 Year – Whiskey Del Bac Classic

2014  American Craft Distillers Festival:
   Bronze:  Whiskey – Whiskey Del Bac Classic

2014 Washington Cup Spirits Competition:
   Bronze:  Single Malt Whiskey – Whiskey Del Bac Classic

2014 American Distillers Institute:
   Bronze:  Single Malt Under 2 Years – Whiskey Del Bac Classic

You probably won't find a bottle outside of the Tucson area, which is just another reason to escape the winter. Hamilton also has distillery tours with tastings and if you are real lucky you might just find a bottle of the limited run un-proofed Del Bac.

Wayne
Title: ..
Post by: Bob2 on 24 Nov 2016, 02:19 am
.
Title: Re: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: RPM123 on 24 Nov 2016, 02:49 am

(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=153960)

Willett Pot Still Reserve...very smooth with caramel and sweet oak taste!
Title: Re: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: LesterSleepsIn on 24 Nov 2016, 03:37 am
I love you guys. Happy Thanksgiving!
Title: Re: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: SixCats! on 4 Dec 2016, 03:16 am
Hello all,

   I'm a big fan of Whiskey, Whisky and Whiskey!  As far as Bourbon Whiskey goes, my being an Audio "best bang for the buck" kind of guy also applies to buying Whiskey/Whisky.

My "all around" favorite (ESPECIALLY) considering it's excellent price :

WILD TURKEY 101 http://www.distillerytrail.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/12/Wild-Turkey-101-Bourbon-Whiskey-Jimmy-Russell.jpe
 
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=InHka3a5fQ4

WILD TURKEY RARE BREED = EXCELLENT! (albeit more expensive).

Elijah Craig 12 = FANTASTIC!

BULLIET RYE = OUTSTANDING!


There are two kinds of Whiskey/Whisky......mine and yours.  Let's drink some of yours!

SixCats!

Title: Re: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: skvinson on 18 Oct 2017, 04:00 pm
I just got into Bourbon about a year ago, but I have jumped in with both feet! So much so, I had to build a rack b/c I ran out of room in the pantry. I made this out of old pallets. The glasses I collect at Goodwill etc. I look for ones that are heavy.

As far as favorites...

Eagle Rare
Angels Envy
Makers 46 (better than regular MM)
Makers Mark Cask Strength (noticeably deeper flavor than M 46)
Woodford Double Oaked
Spring Mill (also 'double oaked' and cheaper than Woodford)
Few
J.R. Ewing (very unique taste)
Breckenridge
High West American Prairie
Big Ass (a barrel proof)
Blantons (still comparing this, MM Cask Strength and Woodford double oak to see which I like best)
Michters
Larceny (ok. I think it has more wheat than many. Gives it a nice flavor.)

I tasted Stagg Jr and Rabbit Hole recently at a bourbon festival in Indy. Really like both, but they are expensive. Some of the ones on my list can be, but I buy most of my bourbon at Kroger. Their prices are good to start and you save 15% when you buy 6 bottles. Which, some of those bottles can be wine. (That keeps the overall price down)

BTW, I've had two 'industry' people tell me, and I taste-tested to confirm, Costco's bourbon is Woodford Reserve. Though, the other day, they were the same price. (Both cheaper than other places though, b/c the bottles are 1 liter for about $30)


(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=170048)


Title: Re: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: Bob in St. Louis on 18 Oct 2017, 04:06 pm
I see Bulleit in your arsenal, but you didn't mention it one of your favorites. Curious as to your thoughts on that one.
Title: Re: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: skvinson on 18 Oct 2017, 05:43 pm
To me Bulleit doesn't really stand out in any sense. It's certainly not bad, just not special in any way. I haven't tried the 10-year version.
Title: Re: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: fredgarvin on 18 Oct 2017, 06:18 pm
I've been drinking Buffalo trace, I like it better than Bulliet or Makers mark. Nice price too.


(http://www.hostpic.org/images/1710182347020111.jpg) (http://www.hostpic.org/view.php?filename=1710182347020111.jpg)
Title: Re: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: skvinson on 18 Oct 2017, 06:51 pm
I also prefer Buffalo Trace to Bulleit and basic Maker's Mark. I recently bought a 'single barrel' bottle that I was able to sample a bottle from the same barrel. Good stuff. I also got 2 single barrel bottles of Eagle Rare. It has really 'climbed' up my list lately. A little more, but I've seen some 1.75's of it lately that make it cheaper. Definitely worth it.
Title: Re: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: Wolf Ear Audio on 18 Oct 2017, 07:42 pm
I've been drinking Buffalo trace, I like it better than Bulliet or Makers mark. Nice price too.


(http://www.hostpic.org/images/1710182347020111.jpg) (http://www.hostpic.org/view.php?filename=1710182347020111.jpg)
Agreed on Buffalo Trace. It also makes for very good eggnogs  :thumb:
Title: Re: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: Bob in St. Louis on 18 Oct 2017, 08:05 pm
It's been a long time since I've had Buffalo Trace. I'll have to revisit that, thanks for the reminder!  :thumb:
Title: Re: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: luckyguy on 18 Oct 2017, 09:02 pm
Funny thing about bourbon.  The more you drink it, the better it tastes, especially after the third double shot. :o
Title: Re: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: 95Dyna on 18 Oct 2017, 09:32 pm
I've been drinking Buffalo trace, I like it better than Bulliet or Makers mark. Nice price too.


(http://www.hostpic.org/images/1710182347020111.jpg) (http://www.hostpic.org/view.php?filename=1710182347020111.jpg)

+1  Just finished off my first bottle that my wife bought me for our anniversary.  Have always been a sour mash guy, Gentleman Jack and Single Barrrel Jack but am now eagerly anticipating another round of BT.

Cheers!!
Title: Re: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: skvinson on 18 Oct 2017, 10:14 pm
Not to knock Jack, but to me, bourbon (in general, and certainly good ones) has a greater depth and complexity of flavor than whiskey (and the Scotch's I've tried).
Title: Re: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: HsvHeelFan on 19 Oct 2017, 05:42 am
Some bourbon's I've lately that i thought were very good:

Breckenridge - priced right at 49 dollars for a fifth (750ml)

Michter US-1  around 44 a bottle here.

Blanton's - always excellent and around 58 a bottle.

I've never had Pappy 15/20/23, but the best bourbon I've ever had is the Wild Turkey Diamond Anniversary.  Around here it's 130 a bottle.

HsvHeelFan
Title: Re: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: mick wolfe on 19 Oct 2017, 04:36 pm
Bulleit Rye for Old Fashion's
Four Roses Single Barrel for sipping
Title: Re: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: 95Dyna on 19 Oct 2017, 04:57 pm
Not to knock Jack, but to me, bourbon (in general, and certainly good ones) has a greater depth and complexity of flavor than whiskey (and the Scotch's I've tried).

It was Michter's that got me started on sour mash over 40 years ago.  Being from Central PA I was near the original distillery in Myerstown, PA which at the time was the oldest continuously operating distillery in the country. Their slogan was  "The Whiskey that warmed the Revolution" As the distillery gradually slowed down and stopped  production availability became spotty which is when I switched to the Jack products.  I agree with you that the Buffalo Trace has a depth to it that I really enjoyed.  It was wine-like in its subtle flavors that could be detected.

I'll have to give the current iteration of Michter's a try to see if it's still what I remember.
Title: Re: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: skvinson on 19 Oct 2017, 07:58 pm
I just bought a bottle of Michter's. I've had one glass so far. I liked it. I am going to compare it to some others I have.
Title: Re: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: syzygy on 19 Oct 2017, 09:28 pm

(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=170094)

I really like this one.
Title: Re: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: skvinson on 19 Oct 2017, 09:34 pm
I've been wanting to try this one...
Title: Re: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: tjhendry on 19 Oct 2017, 09:51 pm
For anyone looking for on-line booze:

https://www.masterofmalt.com

Great selection of spirits...not just single malts.  While the rarities are expensive, there are some bargains to be found.
Go there and check out the Lenten Calendars if you want to get a friend, relative or yourself a special pre-holiday gift.

Right now my favorite Bourbon is Larceny.  It's a 92-proof wheated whiskey  that can please you when you Pappy is gone.
Title: Re: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: santacore on 20 Oct 2017, 02:59 am
Noah's Mill is tasty stuff at 112 proof. At a lower price and a lower proof (100) Rowans Creek is all great. Not quite as woody as the Noah's, but really enjoyable juice. One of my favorites under $40.
Title: Re: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: syzygy on 20 Oct 2017, 12:19 pm
I’ll try the Rowans, thanks. I just bought two bottles of the Noah’s Mill in NY state recently. It’s a special order here and about $10 a bottle more.
Title: Re: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: rodge827 on 23 Dec 2017, 02:35 am
Great thread and have decided to take a dip into the burbon pool! Have always been a Canadian blended guy with some JD thrown in for good measure.
Enjoying Eagle Rare 10 listening to some great Christmas Music.
Wishing all burbonites a safe and Merry Christmas season!  :xmas:

Chris
Title: Re: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: TF1216 on 23 Dec 2017, 02:53 am
Someone please try E. H. Taylor and report back. I promise you will not be let down  :D

https://www.buffalotracedistillery.com/brands/eh-taylor
Title: Re: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: Carl V on 23 Dec 2017, 03:03 am

(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=94167)


Title: Re: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: santacore on 23 Dec 2017, 05:04 am
Nice line up you got there Carl!

Which Taylor do you like iFi? I have an unopened Single Barrel, Barrel Proof, and Straight Rye.
Title: Re: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: bavmike on 23 Dec 2017, 05:14 am
Good timing. Just sipping on a very fine Bulleit old fashioned after a nice meal. Great bourbon!


(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=173252)

(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=173253)
Title: Re: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: santacore on 23 Dec 2017, 05:36 am
Love a good Old Fashioned! Cheers Mike!
Title: Re: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: Cabin life on 31 May 2020, 01:20 am
+! on Basil Hayden.
Title: Re: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: rodge827 on 24 Jul 2020, 12:38 am

(https://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=212244)

(https://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=212245)


Been enjoying the two from the Buffalo Trace family.
Title: Re: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: ebag4 on 24 Jul 2020, 01:21 am
Had a glass of this at a buddies last weekend, incredibly tasty, my first rye, I will be trying others.

(https://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=212247)

Enjoy!
Ed
Title: Re: Bourbon!!!!
Post by: RolandButcher on 24 Jul 2020, 02:10 am
(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=94167)

Is that three bottles of Pappy's??