In this special episode of The Bourbon Road, hosts Jim Shannon and Todd Ritter reunite with returning guest Rob Carter at the beloved Rare Eagle Bar for a crowd-powered tasting experience unlike any other. But this time, the listeners have spoken—literally. The episode features five top-shelf, extra-aged bourbons selected through a Bourbon Roadies community vote. Each pour has over a decade of maturity and was chosen by fans of the show.

The episode kicks off with a warm-up dram of the iconic Eagle Rare 10-Year, perfectly appropriate for the venue’s patriotic ambiance. But the real showstopper is a highly-anticipated taste of the Eagle Rare 12-Year, a limited release that recently caused a frenzy at Buffalo Trace. Thanks to some local luck and great timing, Todd and Amy Winning managed to snag bottles from the short drop of just 1800 units.

The team dives deep into how the extra two years of aging and the bump to 95 proof shape the 12-year pour. They compare it directly to the classic 10-year, analyzing shifts in flavor, depth, and finish. Rob points out the richer oak and leather notes that rise above the familiar cherry-cola backbone, while Jim and Todd highlight subtle changes in spice and sweetness. For a modest $10 increase in retail price, the consensus is clear—Eagle Rare 12 offers exceptional value if you’re lucky enough to find it.

This episode isn’t just about what’s in the glass; it’s a celebration of bourbon community. The very lineup was chosen by Bourbon Roadies through a social media poll that included newer expressions like the 7-Year Old Fitzgerald and classic bottled-in-bond favorites. It’s a testament to how the bourbon world thrives on shared knowledge, enthusiasm, and a touch of good fortune.

Expect a few laughs, plenty of tasting notes, and a healthy dose of Kentucky bourbon culture as the hosts share not only what they're sipping, but the stories behind how they got their hands on these coveted bottles. And with the Rare Eagle Bar as their backdrop—complete with historic American flags and an eclectic whiskey collection—this episode hits every note for fans of bourbon, community, and conversation.

So pour yourself a dram, settle into your favorite chair, and join Jim, Todd, and Rob for a deep dive into age-stated classics, Roadie favorites, and the unmistakable joy of whiskey shared.

Bourbon on the Banks 2025

Smokeys Lifestyle Cigars

The Hill House Bed and Breakfast

Be sure to check out our private Facebook group, “The Bourbon Roadies” for a great group of bourbon loving people. You will be welcomed with open arms!

In this globe-trotting episode of The Bourbon Road, hosts Jim Shannon and Todd Ritter are joined once again by Rob Carter, one-third of the “Maltmigos,” for a single malt tasting session that travels from the Himalayas to the Highlands. Though Amzie couldn’t make the show this time, the malt trio powers forward from their tasting post at The Corner Rickhouse in Frankfort, Kentucky.

The spotlight this episode is on Royal Tiger Single Malt, a double-cask expression from Ocean King Distillers in Goa, India. Distilled by Craig Enriques, this single malt is made from six-row Himalayan barley and aged first in new ex-bourbon casks before being re-casked for a second maturation. The result? A spirit layered with creamy vanilla, overripe pear, honey-drizzled bread, and a whisper of spice from the oak—delightfully balanced and surprisingly sweet for fans of traditional single malt.

Jim, Todd, and Rob dig into the expression’s structure, remarking on its buttercream and vanilla-laced nose, light body, and smooth, sweet finish. They note that while the whiskey skews a little sweeter than their usual fare, it offers a refreshing break from the bolder, high-proof bourbons they typically favor. For a $49 bottle, the consensus was unanimous: this Indian single malt punches well above its weight. Other expressions tasted during the show are Ice Cream from Glenmorangie, Loch Lemond and Glen Scotia.

As they sip, the conversation ranges from distilling techniques to global whiskey culture. The team highlights India’s rapidly growing single malt scene and how regional water sources, climate, and local grain are contributing to distinct profiles that rival the best from Scotland or the U.S. They also muse about the potential for single malt cream liqueurs and whether peated versions could offer a new kind of dessert dram.

Beyond the glass, the hosts discuss upcoming barrel picks in western Kentucky, share travel plans to Fort Campbell and Clarksville, and reflect on the value of tasting outside your comfort zone. For Rob, this was a first-time single malt deep dive; for listeners, it's a lesson in palate exploration, regional nuance, and just plain good company.

So whether you're a bourbon loyalist or a curious malthead, this episode is an open invitation to explore a world of flavor—no passport required.

Bourbon on the Banks 2025

Smokeys Lifestyle Cigars

The Hill House Bed and Breakfast

Be sure to check out our private Facebook group, “The Bourbon Roadies” for a great group of bourbon loving people. You will be welcomed with open arms!

In this captivating episode of The Bourbon Road, hosts Jim Shannon and Todd Ritter sit down with Rabbit Hole founder Kaveh Zamanian at the distillery’s stunning downtown Louisville location for a twofold journey: one through the glass, and one through time. Their guest isn’t just a master distiller and entrepreneur — he’s now an author, and his new book, Mother of Bourbon: The Greatest American Whiskey Story Never Told, brings the remarkable story of Mary Dowling into the spotlight.

As the episode unfolds, Kaveh shares how a footnote in an old text sparked years of research into Dowling’s forgotten legacy. A pioneering woman who ran successful distilleries, survived Prohibition by moving operations to Mexico, and may have influenced the 1964 congressional act recognizing bourbon as America’s native spirit — Dowling’s story is equal parts myth, grit, and American ingenuity. Zamanian's book gives her the recognition she never received… until now.

But this isn’t just a history lesson — it’s also a tasting session. The team begins with the Mary Dowling Wheated Bourbon, a 93-proof pour made from 65% corn, 25% wheat, and 10% malted barley. Aged in toasted and charred barrels and barreled at a low 110 proof, the whiskey surprises with bright cherry, cereal grain, and soft spice notes. With its luxurious mouthfeel and balanced finish, it reflects the same craft and care Zamanian brought to the storytelling in his book.

Listeners also get a sneak peek into the upcoming Tequila Barrel-Finished Mary Dowling expression, inspired by Dowling’s cross-border Prohibition-era distilling. Though not tasted in this episode, it’s clear this release continues the theme of honoring history through bold innovation.

Between sips and stories, Kaveh walks listeners through the serendipitous acquisition of the Dowling and Waterfill & Frazier trademarks, his connections to descendants of Robert Gould (former owner of what became Wild Turkey), and the deep creative process that brought both whiskey and book to life.

Whether you’re a bourbon buff, a history enthusiast, or simply love a great story in your glass and on your shelf, this episode is a masterclass in how legacy, craftsmanship, and storytelling can beautifully collide.

Bourbon on the Banks 2025

Smokeys Lifestyle Cigars

The Hill House Bed and Breakfast

Be sure to check out our private Facebook group, “The Bourbon Roadies” for a great group of bourbon loving people. You will be welcomed with open arms!

In this episode of The Bourbon Road, Jim Shannon and Todd Ritter return for Part Two of their deep dive into Lost Lantern’s 2025 Summer Collection — and this time, it’s all about the rye. The duo tastes through a curated lineup of four standout rye whiskeys, plus a bonus pour, delivering flavor notes, backstories, and some playful banter along the way.

The tasting kicks off with Far North Spirits from Minnesota, a 4-year-old rye clocking in at 111.5 proof. It impresses with grain-forward notes, minty freshness, and a candy-like sweetness that evolves into a spicy finish — evoking everything from Melba toast to black licorice jellybeans.

Next is the return of Fray Ranch from Nevada with a 6-year, 118.6-proof rye that blows both hosts away. With tasting notes of mint chocolate chip, brandy-like fruit, and a chocolate-dipped finish, it emerges as a strong contender for favorite pour of the episode. Colby and the Fray Ranch team continue to prove why their farm-to-glass model is producing truly unique and exceptional whiskey.

The episode is peppered with exciting bourbon news, including:

• The upcoming release of Heaven Hill’s Grain to Glass Kentucky Straight Rye (Batch 2)

• The return of Elijah Craig and Larceny barrel-proof expressions

• Jacob’s Pardon Collective Series — a 16-year-old whiskey finished in 50-year-old Oloroso sherry casks

• Upcoming limited releases from Old Forester, Chattanooga Whiskey, Boone County, and New Riff

As always, Jim and Todd keep it real, sharing not just tasting notes but honest opinions about value, availability, and flavor. They also highlight Lost Lantern’s growing influence in the craft whiskey space, with recurring praise for past favorites like Whiskey Acres.

Whether you’re a seasoned rye lover or a curious newcomer, this episode is packed with flavor, insight, and plenty of road-tested recommendations. Don’t miss the bonus pour at the end — a surprise worth sticking around for.

Bourbon on the Banks 2025

Smokeys Lifestyle Cigars

The Hill House Bed and Breakfast

Be sure to check out our private Facebook group, “The Bourbon Roadies” for a great group of bourbon loving people. You will be welcomed with open arms!

In this week’s episode of The Bourbon Road, Jim and Todd settle into the Bourbon Road Bar with four exciting pours—all part of Lost Lantern’s 2025 Summer Collection. Known for spotlighting unique, independently bottled whiskeys, Lost Lantern returns with a compelling lineup that champions estate distilleries—those growing their own grains and crafting whiskey that truly reflects a sense of place.

The hosts dive headfirst into these new expressions, starting with a robust 118.1 proof bourbon from Whiskey Acres in DeKalb, Illinois. With a mashbill of yellow dent corn, wheat, and malted barley, this 5-year-old expression surprises both hosts with its rich character and memorable finish. Jim and Todd recall their past blind tasting with Whiskey Acres and reaffirm its standout quality in today’s tasting.

But this episode isn’t just about tasting notes—it's about exploring what estate distilling means for the future of American whiskey. The hosts discuss how companies like Lost Lantern are leading the charge in showcasing distilleries that prioritize heirloom grains, sustainable practices, and unique terroir. Jim notes how commercial grains have drifted toward mass production, often at the expense of flavor, while Todd highlights how estate distillers are turning the tide.

Listeners also get an insider’s look at:

• The philosophy behind Lost Lantern’s curation

• Why estate-grown grains matter in today’s whiskey

• Upcoming bottles from Russell’s Reserve, Old Forester, and Buffalo Trace

• And how the bourbon industry is evolving thanks to distillers like Freddie Noe and innovators like Lost Lantern

With plenty of banter, tasting impressions, and thoughtful industry analysis, this episode is part one of a two-part journey through eight total samples from Lost Lantern’s newest release. Whether you're a seasoned whiskey lover or just curious about craft expressions that go beyond the big names, this episode delivers a flavorful and informative ride.

So pour a glass, settle in, and join Jim and Todd as they explore bold new frontiers in American whiskey—one barrel at a time.

Bourbon on the Banks 2025

Smokeys Lifestyle Cigars

The Hill House Bed and Breakfast

Be sure to check out our private Facebook group, “The Bourbon Roadies” for a great group of bourbon loving people. You will be welcomed with open arms!

In this relaxed and whiskey-rich episode of The Bourbon Road, hosts Jim Shannon and Todd Ritter take a well-earned pause from their recent travels and barrel picks to enjoy a night of good conversation and even better pours. Broadcasting from the Bourbon Road Bar in Simpsonville, Kentucky, the duo dives into a curated flight of four whiskeys—two bourbons and two ryes—with a monster of a surprise in the final glass.

You'll hear stories of legendary Kentucky moonshine, high-proof adventures, and reflections on the growing bourbon community, including updates on their recent roadie meetups and the much-anticipated debut of the Frankfurt Documentary. There’s even a toast to their “podcast enemies” over at Pursuit United, as Jim and Todd sample the Melwood Bottled-in-Bond Bourbon—a nod to whiskey history and the legacy of George Swearingen and Rudolph Balki.

The episode is more than just tasting notes (though there are plenty): it’s about community, history, and the shared appreciation of exceptional spirits. Learn about Melwood Avenue’s historic distilling past, find out what makes the rare 375ml release from Pursuit United so unique, and stick around for insights on upcoming barrel picks, roadie events, and the always vibrant Bourbon on the Banks Festival.

And yes, they saved the strongest for last—literally. One of the highest-proof pours ever featured on the show makes a thunderous finish, sparking memories of mason jars, X-marked moonshine, and the kind of burn only true Kentuckians could admire.

So pour yourself a generous dram and settle in. This episode is one for the books—and for the bourbon shelves.

Bourbon on the Banks 2025

Smokeys Lifestyle Cigars

The Hill House Bed and Breakfast

Be sure to check out our private Facebook group, "The Bourbon Roadies" for a great group of bourbon loving people. You will be welcomed with open arms!

This week on The Bourbon Road, Jim and Todd sit down with Julian Jones of West Fork Whiskey, an emerging Indiana distillery making bold moves in the American whiskey scene. In a rare twist, the trio kicks things off with a reverse-proof tasting—starting strong with Old Hammer Cask Strength Bourbon. Julian shares the story behind West Fork’s grain-to-glass mission, the challenges of building a craft brand in a Kentucky-dominated world, and why Indiana whiskey deserves your attention. Don’t miss this insightful and flavorful journey through the heartland of whiskey innovation.

Bourbon on the Banks 2025

Smokeys Lifestyle Cigars

The Hill House Bed and Breakfast

Be sure to check out our private Facebook group, "The Bourbon Roadies" for a great group of bourbon loving people. You will be welcomed with open arms!