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We explore Booker's Reserve 2025, a groundbreaking bourbon finished in tequila barrels that creates a unique flavor experience unlike any previous Booker's release.

• First-ever finished Booker's bourbon and first tequila finish in the Beam portfolio
• Barrels traveled from Kentucky to Mexico and back, creating a global whiskey story
• Aged 8 years, 10 months, 11 days at 123.3 proof (61.65% ABV)
• Brown wax seal pays homage to early Booker's releases
• Freddie Noe's innovative approach honors grandfather Booker's experimental spirit
• Tasting reveals complex notes of caramel, vanilla, Mexican spice, and subtle agave influence
• Scores an impressive 17.5/18 on our Old Louisville Barrel Bottle Breakdown rating system
• Drinks remarkably smooth despite high proof, making it an ideal fireside sipper
• The finish features a lasting warmth with evolving flavors that continue to develop

Visit www.scotchybourbonboys.com for all things Scotchy Bourbon Boys, including Glencairn glasses and t-shirts. Remember, good bourbon equals good friends and good times. Drink responsibly and don't drink and drive. Live your life uncut and unfiltered.

Bourbon innovation meets tequila tradition in our exploration of Booker's Reserve 2025 – a groundbreaking release that takes Booker's barrels on an international journey before creating something truly spectacular.

This unique expression began with Booker's 30th Anniversary barrels that traveled to Jalisco, Mexico, where the Camarena family used them to age El Tesoro tequila. When those same barrels returned to Kentucky, they carried rich agave notes that would transform a special batch of Booker's bourbon during a 2-3 month finishing period. The result? A first-ever finished Booker's that bridges Kentucky tradition with Mexican craftsmanship.

Our tasting reveals a masterful balance of bourbon character and tequila influence. At 123.3 proof, this 8-year, 10-month bourbon delivers waves of caramel, vanilla, and baking spices complemented by subtle agave brightness. What's most remarkable is how approachable it remains despite its strength – the perfect fireside companion for winter evenings. The distinctive brown wax seal (rather than traditional black) visually connects this innovative expression to early Booker's releases.

Freddie Noe has established the Reserve series as his playground while honoring his grandfather's experimental spirit. As Freddie notes, Booker "was never not exploring" and would eagerly share his tinkering with friends and family. This philosophy lives on in a bourbon that scored an impressive 17.5/18 on our rating scale, making it a must-have for collectors and enthusiasts alike.

Whether you're a longtime Booker's fan or exploring premium bourbon for the first time, this release demonstrates how thoughtful barrel finishing can add fascinating dimensions to an already exceptional whiskey. Get your bottle while supplies last, and experience what happens when Kentucky tradition meets Mexican craftsmanship in a glass.

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Rebekah Neeley from Neeley Family Distillery joins us to share their latest innovations and a tasting of uniquely finished whiskeys from their Sparta, Kentucky distillery. From their upcoming three-chamber still to award-winning experimental finishes, Rebecca demonstrates why small, family-owned distilleries are at the forefront of bourbon innovation.

• Neely is installing a three-chamber still, becoming only the fourth operational one in the world
• Cypress fermenters impart the distinct "Neely funk" that distinguishes their flavor profile
• Their absinthe has won three consecutive double golds and a platinum medal
• Rebekah guides us through tastings of sake-finished bourbon, sauternes finish, tequila finish, and acacia wood finish
• The distillery offers quarter and half barrel picks to make barrel selection more accessible
• Rebekah's first official blend showcases her blending skills and understanding of everyday bourbon drinkers
• Visitors can fill their own bottles and personalize labels at the distillery
• Located at Exit 55 off Interstate 71 between Louisville and Cincinnati

Remember to stop by Neeley Family Distillery when traveling - they have rocking chairs, a cigar area, and some of the cleanest bathrooms around. Live your life uncut and unfiltered.

Venture into the heart of Kentucky bourbon country as we sit down with Rebekah Neeley at the speakeasy of Neeley Family Distillery. This episode uncorks the fascinating evolution of a craft distillery that's balancing tradition with bold innovation.

Rebekah shares exciting news about their upcoming three-chamber still installation—set to make them only the fourth distillery in the world with this equipment. The "Icon," as it's officially named, will produce heavier, more viscous distillate that opens new possibilities for their whiskey portfolio. We explore why Neely maintains cypress fermenters when many have switched to stainless steel, and how these wooden vessels create what Rebekah calls "the Neeley funk"—that distinctive character that makes their spirits uniquely theirs.

The heart of our visit features an extraordinary tasting journey through Neely's experimental finished whiskeys. Rebekah guides us through their sake barrel-finished four-grain bourbon with delicate melon notes, an award-winning sauternes finish, a complex tequila-finished expression with chocolate and berry characteristics, and perhaps most surprisingly, an acacia wood-finished bourbon with barbecue-like qualities. We also sample Rebecca's first official blend—a carefully crafted seven-barrel marriage designed as an approachable daily sipper.

What makes Neeley special extends beyond the liquid. Their quarter and half-barrel options make single barrel selections accessible to smaller groups, while their fill-your-own-bottle program creates meaningful personalized experiences for visitors. Rebekah shares touching stories of how this simple offering has created powerful moments—from future 21st birthday gifts to heartfelt thank-you presents for hospital staff.

Whether you're planning your Kentucky bourbon trail adventure or simply seeking inspiration from craft distilling innovation, join us for this deep dive into what makes small, family-owned distilleries the creative heartbeat of American whiskey. Subscribe now and discover your next bourbon adventure!

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Tiny recounts the Scotchy Bourbon Boys' action-packed week at the Kentucky Bourbon Festival, highlighting distillery tours, bottle releases, and unforgettable experiences. The team captured professional-quality content throughout the festival while collecting exceptional bourbon.

• Pre-festival activities included podcasting at Neely Family Distillery and hosting a fan meetup at Revival Vintage Spirits
• Acquired a 1946 Dowling Deluxe Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey (distilled in 1938) from Revival
• Visited numerous distilleries including Town Branch, Jim Beam, Maker's Mark, and Old Carter
• Organized a bus tour featuring stops at Evan Williams, the Pendennis Club, and Old Louisville Whiskey Company
• Participated in a Maker's Mark Private Selection despite a power outage from a lightning strike
• CT heroically rescued a young woman from an overturned car during their travels
• Jim Beam "saved the festival" by ensuring enough special releases for general admission attendees
• Acquired bottles including Knob Creek 21, Booker's Reserve, Hardin's Creek expressions, and festival-exclusive picks

Join us next Tuesday when we'll announce our Christmas party, the Crystal Glencairn tasting, new membership packages, and the pre-sale of our Maker's Mark Private Select.
What happens when you combine Kentucky's biggest bourbon celebration with the Scotchy Bourbon Boys' passion for capturing authentic whiskey experiences? An unforgettable week filled with rare tastings, exclusive access, and unexpected adventures.

Our journey began days before the official Kentucky Bourbon Festival, with an ambitious itinerary that included podcasting with Rebecca Neely in their speakeasy, hosting fans at Revival Vintage Spirits, and acquiring a truly historic bourbon – a 1946 Dowling Deluxe distilled in 1938. Each day brought new discoveries as we visited Town Branch, Jim Beam, Whiskey Thief, and numerous other distilleries, capturing professional-quality content while immersing ourselves in Kentucky's bourbon culture.

The centerpiece of our pre-festival activities was our curated bus tour, taking whiskey enthusiasts to legendary Louisville destinations including the Evan Williams Experience, the historic Pendennis Club (birthplace of the Old Fashioned), Old Carter, and Old Louisville Whiskey Company. Walter Zausch's extraordinary hospitality at the Pendennis Club – featuring custom Old Fashioneds and a 25-year Derby bottle – exemplified the personal connections that make bourbon culture so special.

Among the most memorable experiences was participating in a Maker's Mark Private Selection despite the distillery suffering a power outage from a lightning strike. Selecting staves by natural light in the lakehouse created an atmosphere connecting us to bourbon's pre-industrial roots, resulting in a selection that perfectly accentuates the whiskey's creme brulee and caramel notes.

The festival itself revealed the growing intensity of bottle hunting, with some enthusiasts waiting hours without success. However, Jim Beam's generous allocation of special releases – including Knob Creek 21, Booker's Reserve 2025, and three Hardin's Creek expressions – ensured even general admission attendees could secure remarkable bottles.

Beyond the planned events, we experienced an unexpected moment of heroism when CT rescued a young woman from an overturned vehicle – a powerful remi

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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