Valentine’s Day is the perfect excuse to slow down, pour something good, and enjoy a pairing that feels both classic and a little indulgent. Bourbon and chocolate might sound like an easy match, but when you line up the right styles with the right flavors, the combination becomes something special — the kind of pairing that makes you stop mid-sip and appreciate how well these two worlds fit together. Bourbon’s natural sweetness, oak influence, and warm spice make it a dream p

Every distillery has a story, but Heaven Hill’s  is one of those rare ones that feels genuinely woven into the fabric of Kentucky bourbon. Five Brothers Bourbon  leans into that heritage with a name that honors the Shapira brothers, the family who founded Heaven Hill back in 1935. The bottle itself doesn’t scream for attention — it doesn’t have to. What’s inside does the talking, and it speaks with the kind of easy confidence that only comes from decades of knowing exactly wh

A while back, I was in my favorite Total Wine & More  establishment and saw a large display of Old Emmer Finest Wheat Bourbon Whiskey . I asked an employee for a complimentary pour (I always appreciate!) and asked if he could tell me anything about it. “ It’s flying off the shelves. We can’t keep it in stock .” Really – tell me more … “ Well, you’ve heard of Elmer T. Lee  – well this is similar. And the ‘old’ is tied to ‘Old Taylor’ ” … Hmmm … My mantra is “ Never let the tru

Some bourbons demand attention; others earn it. Old Bardstown Estate Bottled Bourbon  falls squarely into the second category — a bottle that doesn’t chase hype, doesn’t posture, and doesn’t need to. It’s the kind of pour that rewards curiosity and reminds you why traditional Kentucky bourbon still hits the spot. From Family Roots to Kentucky Legend Old Bardstown Estate Bottled Bourbon  is produced by the Willett Distillery in Bardstown, Kentucky. Willett’s bourbon story is,

Few names evoke nostalgia quite like John Denver’s 1971 hit single Country Roads . Pair that sentiment with bourbon, and you’ve got a recipe for something truly special. Take Me Home Country Roads 4 Lane Bourbon  is more than just a whiskey—it’s a tribute to Appalachian heritage, craftsmanship, and the open road. A Journey in Every Sip Inspired by the iconic song that celebrates the beauty of West Virginia and the Appalachian spirit, 4 Lane Bourbon aims to capture that same s

There’s something magical about winter evenings: the glow of holiday lights, the smell of cinnamon and ginger wafting through the kitchen, and—if you’re lucky—a glass of bourbon in hand. But here’s the secret: bourbon isn’t just for sipping. It’s a flavor powerhouse that can elevate your favorite seasonal desserts into unforgettable experiences. Let’s talk about a few pairings that will make your holiday table shine. Pecan Pie + High-Rye Bourbon Pecan pie is already a decaden

If you’re a bourbon enthusiast, you know that Old Grand-Dad has a storied history in American whiskey. Known for its high-rye mash bill and bold character, this brand has been a staple for decades. But today, we’re diving into something truly special: Old Grand-Dad 7-Year Bottled-in-Bond —a release that brings heritage and craftsmanship together in a way that feels both nostalgic and exciting. A Brief History Old Grand-Dad sounds like a brand that your father or grandfather d

More and more “ house bourbons ” or “ store bourbons ” are coming to market, it’s Costco’s Kirkland brand, Liquor Barn’s Flatboat series , Binny’s Clark & Sheffield  lineup, or today’s selection - Chestnut Farms  - there is a common thread - they’re all from the 1792 Distillery in Bardstown, Kentucky.  Craft Names from a Distilling Giant I was recently in Austin, Texas for work and my co-worker shared that she and her partner were enamored with a great tasting bourbon for the

Close to downtown Lexington, Kentucky is The Distillery District . At one time, this area was a bustling industrial complex. Today, it is...

A few years ago, at Justins’  in Lexington, Kentucky, I saw an old bottle of Wild Turkey 101 from the early 1970s and wondered what it...

Double barreling isn’t a new sensation. Old Forester  pioneered the concept in 1910 when a fire in the bottling building caused a stir,...

It’s Summer in the Midwest. The last weeks of sweet corn season are winding up at our local Farmer’s Market and we’re enjoying all the...

They say that confession is “ good for the soul ”. I have to confess that this is a bottle I’ve seen on the shelf many a time, have...

In these challenging economic times, I’m always looking for a bargain - especially if there is a way to try multiple bourbons or whiskeys...

Wheated bourbons have caught the fancy of many whiskey lovers. While Maker’s Mark and Weller catch the eye of many consumers today, some...

The college football season was in full swing, and when I saw the display in the aisle, I knew I had to grab a bottle - if for no one...

I’ve shared on numerous occasions  that if you’ve got a cool-looking bottle, I’m probably stopping to take a look - and better yet, have...

Introduced in late 2024, J im Beam Winter Reserve  is a seasonal release of the flagship Jim Beam brand to compliment the brand’s...

A while back, we were in my favorite regional grocery chain scoping out the bottles behind the counter in the liquor section. It was...

As temperatures drop, I find my palate shifting towards malt whiskey and maltier bourbons. My wife’s maiden name is Floyd, and when we...