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The Jack Daniels Triple Mash offers a uniquely sweet whiskey experience by combining three different mash bills in a way that challenges expectations of the Jack Daniels brand. This innovative expression earned 14 out of 18 knocks in our barrel bottle breakdown, making it a standout bottle at the $40 price point.

• Triple Mash combines 60% Tennessee Rye, 20% Tennessee Whiskey, and 20% American Malt
• First-ever release containing Jack Daniels' American Malt (100% malted barley)
• Exhibits notes of Sugar Smacks cereal, maple syrup, caramel, and hazelnut
• Noticeably sweeter than traditional Jack Daniels products without being artificial
• Features a dark chocolate finish with pleasant hazelnut undertones
• Shows thick legs in the glass indicating excellent viscosity

For beginner bourbon drinkers, we recommend three excellent gateway whiskeys: Basil Hayden 10 Year for smoothness with flavor, Old Tub for Jim Beam fans wanting to step up, and Evan Williams Master Blend for those who typically find bourbon too harsh.

Don't drink and drive. Drink responsibly and make sure you live your life uncut and unfiltered.

Ready for a whiskey that breaks all your Jack Daniels expectations? The Triple Mash delivers a sweetness profile so rich, you'll wonder if they secretly added sugar (they didn't).

Diving deep into this innovative expression, we explore the fascinating combination of three distinct whiskey styles: 60% Tennessee Rye, 20% Tennessee Whiskey, and 20% American Malt—marking the first-ever public appearance of Jack Daniels' 100% malted barley offering. The result? A cereal-forward flavor reminiscent of Sugar Smacks that evolves into maple, caramel, and finishes with delightful dark chocolate-hazelnut notes.

At just $40, this Bottled in Bond expression earned an impressive 14/18 knocks on our Barrel Bottle Breakdown scale. The thick legs and remarkable viscosity provide a mouthfeel that elevates the drinking experience beyond what you'd expect at this price point. If you've historically found Jack Daniels too harsh or one-dimensional, Triple Mash offers the perfect entry point into appreciating what the brand can achieve when it steps outside traditional boundaries.

We also explore three perfect beginner bourbons for different palates: Basil Hayden 10 Year for scotch drinkers seeking smoothness with flavor complexity; Old Tub for Jim Beam fans ready to elevate their experience; and the rare Evan Williams Master Blend for those who typically find bourbon too intense. Each offers a gateway into the whiskey world without overwhelming the palate.

Whether you're a seasoned enthusiast or just beginning your whiskey journey, this episode provides valuable insights into approachable expressions that deliver remarkable flavor. Have you tried the Triple Mash yet? We'd love to hear your thoughts!

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Knob Creek 9 Year serves as both an incredible value at $35 and a meaningful journey marker for bourbon enthusiasts seeking authentic whiskey experiences without breaking the bank.

• Knob Creek was established in 1992 as part of Jim Beam's small batch collection created by Booker Noe
• The name pays homage to Abraham Lincoln's childhood home in Kentucky
• After temporarily losing its age statement in 2016 due to inventory shortages, the 9-year age statement proudly returned in 2020
• The classic mash bill consists of 75% corn, 13% rye, and 12% malted barley
• Knob Creek's single barrels come in at a robust 120 proof while the standard 9-year holds steady at 100 proof
• For its modest $35 price point, Knob Creek 9 delivers a flavor profile that rivals bourbons costing substantially more
• The nose presents distinct vanilla ice cream cone notes while the palate offers vanilla frosting that transitions to caramel with leather on the finish
• Jim Beam allows their barrels to age naturally in Kentucky's climate without rushing the process
• The current batch earned an impressive 15/18 rating, demonstrating exceptional quality for its price point

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

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The Scotchy Bourbon Boys taste and compare Stagg Jr. and Stagg bourbons, tracing the evolution from the "Junior" designation to simply "Stagg" and examining whether quality changed with the name.

• Stagg described as "the perfect man's bourbon" - barrel-proof with power but exceptionally balanced
• Multiple batches of Stagg released in 2024 (A through D) showing increased availability
• Comparing Stagg Jr. batch 12 (130.9 proof) with newer Stagg batches reveals consistent quality
• Buffalo Trace maintains the signature brown sugar and cherry flavor profile across all batches
• Bourbon availability generally improving with Buffalo Trace products appearing more frequently
• Many bourbon enthusiasts prefer standard Stagg over George T. Stagg despite the price difference
• Stagg represents exceptional value at $59.99 MSRP compared to its secondary market price
• The importance of bourbon community and sharing special bottles creates meaningful connections
• Kentucky Bourbon Festival plans discussed with potential distillery tour options
• Different batches maintain subtle variations while keeping core flavor characteristics

Check out www.scotchiebourbonboys.com for all things Scotchy Bourbon Boys, including Glen Cairns, t-shirts, and information about our current barrel picks. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube and X, and listen on Apple, iHeart, Spotify and all major podcast platforms.

Stagg bourbon has earned its reputation as what the Scotchy Bourbon Boys call "the perfect man's bourbon" - a barrel-proof powerhouse that delivers without compromise. This episode brings Super Nash back to explore what makes Stagg special and how it's evolved since dropping the "Junior" designation in 2021.

The boys taste multiple batches side-by-side, comparing the last Stagg Jr. (Batch 12 at 130.9 proof) with recent 2024 releases. What emerges is a fascinating portrait of consistency - the signature brown sugar and cherry notes remain intact across batches, proving Buffalo Trace's commitment to maintaining quality while increasing availability. The team discusses how Stagg has become more accessible in Ohio and beyond, with multiple 2024 batches (A through D) hitting shelves this year.

Perhaps most intriguing is the comparison between standard Stagg and George T. Stagg from the Buffalo Trace Antique Collection. Many bourbon enthusiasts actually prefer the regular Stagg despite the significant price difference, describing it as "the working man's bourbon" versus "the rich man's special bottle." At $59.99 MSRP, Stagg represents extraordinary value compared to secondary market prices of $200-400.

Beyond the tasting, the episode captures the camaraderie that makes bourbon special - sharing bottles, standing in line at releases, and planning adventures like the upcoming Kentucky Bourbon Festival tour. As bourbon availability increases across Buffalo Trace products, the community benefits from greater access to exceptional whiskeys like Stagg.

Have you tried different Stagg batches? Which release is your favorite? Share your thoughts and join us for more bourbon exploration!

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Tonight's episode dives deep into the world of double oak and toasted oak bourbon, exploring the science and flavor differences between various finishing techniques. We examine what sets apart barrel finishing methods and why they create such distinct flavor profiles in your favorite bourbons.

• Woodford Double Oak stands as our benchmark for the category—butterscotch and caramel notes with exceptional availability
• Peerless offers both Toasted and Double Oak expressions with higher proof points and distinct character differences
• French oak versus American oak creates notably different sweetness profiles, with French imparting more butterscotch notes
• Charred barrels serve as both flavor enhancers and natural filters for column-distilled spirits
• The Kentucky Bourbon Festival (Sept 5-7, 2025) will feature exclusive releases with tickets going on sale April 17th
• Old Louisville Whiskey Company's Double Double Oak earned a spectacular 17/18 rating on our barrel bottle breakdown scale

Join the Crystal Glencairn Club and connect with us at www.scotchybourbonboys.com for merch, updates, and membership information. Remember to like, subscribe, and leave good feedback wherever you listen!

Ever wondered why some bourbons taste like butterscotch while others lean heavily toward caramel? The secret lies in the oak—specifically whether that barrel was charred or toasted, and whether your bourbon spent time in one barrel or two.

We journey through the fascinating world of barrel finishing techniques, comparing the sweet spot of double-oaked bourbons against their toasted counterparts. From Woodford Reserve Double Oak (the gold standard) to Peerless Distilling's twin expressions and the ultra-premium Old Louisville Double Double Oak, we explore how these barrel treatments transform whiskey from good to extraordinary.

The science behind barrel treatment proves fascinating—charring caramelizes wood sugars and creates a natural filter, while toasting gently warms the wood to release more subtle flavors. We learn why French oak tends to produce butterscotch notes while American oak leans toward vanilla and caramel. Each sip tells a story of time, temperature, and transformation.

Beyond the tasting, we share details about the upcoming Kentucky Bourbon Festival (September 5-7, 2025), where bourbon lovers can sample countless expressions and exclusive releases. Tickets go on sale April 17th, with early access for "Bourbon Insiders" on April 16th—definitely an event worth marking on your calendar if you've fallen in love with these complex, layered whiskeys.

Whether you're new to bourbon or a seasoned enthusiast, understanding the oak behind your pour adds a whole new dimension to appreciation. Which do you prefer—the caramelized richness of charred barrels or the subtle sweetness of toasted wood? Pour yourself something special and join the conversation!

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Martin and Pat transformed a friendship at Burns Pub in Columbus into Bua, an exceptional Irish whiskey brand that competes with giants while maintaining local Ohio roots. Their Black Label expression, finished in Irish stout barrels at 94 proof, offers a unique sipping experience that showcases how Irish whiskey creates perfect harmony with barrel finishes compared to bourbon's typically more dominant base spirit.

• Bua Irish Whiskey started when Pat (bar owner) and Martin (Tullamore Dew rep) dreamed of creating their own brand
• The White Label expression (123 proof) is an OHLQ single barrel, while the new Black Label (94 proof) joins their core lineup
• Irish whiskey accepts barrel finishing differently than bourbon, creating a true 50-50 flavor partnership
• The Black Label features notes of vanilla, confectioner's sugar, and unique citrus characteristics
• Roughly 90% of Irish whiskey is controlled by just four brands, making craft producers like Bua a rare find
• Try making a Guinness reduction syrup with brown sugar for an exceptional Bua old-fashioned
• Guinness surprisingly contains only 3.8% ABV, less than Bud Light's 4.2%

Join us at Burns Pub to experience the full range of Bua whiskeys and discover why these small-batch Irish spirits deserve your attention.

Behind every great whiskey lies a story of friendship, passion, and craftsmanship. For Bua Irish Whiskey, that story begins at Burns Pub in Columbus, Ohio, where bar owner Pat and former Tullamore Dew representative Martin transformed their "what if" conversations into a thriving local whiskey brand that captures the essence of Irish spirit-making while standing firmly on Ohio soil.

The Scotchy Bourbon Boys dive deep into Bua's expressions, particularly celebrating their stout-finished offerings. What sets these apart is how masterfully Irish whiskey accepts barrel finishing – creating a true 50-50 partnership between the base spirit and the finishing barrel, rather than the subtle complementary notes often found in finished bourbons. This harmony of flavors allows both elements to shine equally, creating a unique drinking experience.

Most striking is Bua's ability to compete with industry giants despite their small-batch nature. With approximately 90% of Irish whiskey sales controlled by just four major brands, craft producers like Bua represent a small but mighty force in the market, offering innovative expressions that challenge convention. Their White Label OHLQ single barrel (an impressive 123 proof) and the new Black Label core expression (94 proof) deliver complexity and character rarely found in standard Irish offerings, earning a remarkable 15/18 score in the hosts' "Barrel Bottle Breakdown" assessment.

Whether you're a bourbon enthusiast looking to expand your palate or an Irish whiskey aficionado seeking something beyond the mainstream, Bua delivers with notes of vanilla, confectioner's sugar, and unique citrus characteristics that dance across the palate. The hosts even suggest trying a Guinness reduction syrup with brown sugar and chocolate bitters for an exceptional Bua old-fashioned – perfect for celebrating St. Patrick's Day or any day worthy of a remarkable pour. Visit Burns Pub to experience the full range and discover why these grain-to-glass expressions deserve a place in your collection.

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Amanda Humphrey takes us behind the scenes at Star Hill Farm, home of Maker's Mark, where tradition meets innovation across 1,100 acres of working farmland. We explore how this iconic bourbon brand is pioneering sustainable practices while maintaining their founder's vision through innovative wood-finishing techniques and an uncompromising commitment to flavor.

• Amanda's journey from London bartender to Maker's Mark advocacy and experience leader
• The importance of terroir in bourbon and how 86% of ingredients come from the local area
• Using 55 beehives, Wagyu cattle, and a truffle-hunting dog to create a self-sustaining farm
• How the Heritage Collection and wood-finishing series evolved from Maker's classic profile
• The significance of the Maker's Mark stamp and its connection to pewter craftsmanship
• Creating the world's first genetically sequenced oak tree to preserve American white oak
• Seven unique Star Hill Farm experiences beyond the traditional distillery tour
• Women's growing leadership presence throughout the bourbon industry

Visit makermark.com to explore the immersive experiences at Star Hill Farm and discover their latest wood-finishing releases.

Step onto the hallowed grounds of Star Hill Farm with us as Amanda Humphrey reveals the magic behind Maker's Mark's 1,100-acre whiskey wonderland. From the moment we sit at the founders' original kitchen table—where the iconic bourbon was first conceived through bread recipes—we're immersed in a world where tradition and innovation dance together in perfect harmony.

Amanda's journey from London bartender to Maker's Mark advocate embodies the global appeal of this distinctly Kentucky brand. Her passion for the distillery's sustainable practices illuminates how Maker's Mark has evolved from a single expression to a portfolio that honors its wheated bourbon DNA while exploring new dimensions of flavor through wood science.

What sets Star Hill Farm apart isn't just what goes into the bottle—it's the holistic ecosystem they've created. With 55 bee boxes producing honey for cocktails, Katahdin sheep maintaining the soil, a Wagyu cattle program finished on spent grain, and even a truffle-hunting Lagotto dog named Star, this is bourbon production reimagined as regenerative agriculture. "Bourbon is an agricultural product, it's nature distilled," Amanda explains, revealing how 86% of ingredients consumed on-site come from the immediate area.

Perhaps most remarkable is Maker's Mark's 200-year vision for environmental stewardship. They've established the world's largest white oak research forest and created the first genetically sequenced American white oak tree in history—a living library of 540 million pairs of DNA that will inform conservation efforts for generations to come.

We taste through their latest innovations, including the just-about-to-be-released Keeper's Release from their wood-finishing series, which showcases the expertise of their warehouse team with notes of honey, butterscotch, and cinnamon French toast. Yet even as they innovate, that distinctive Maker's Mark profile remains the north star.

Whether you're a bourbon aficionado or simply curious about sustainable spirits production, this episode offers a fascinating glimpse into how one of America's most beloved bourbon brands is creating flavors rooted in place while safeguarding the future of whiskey making. Listen now and discover why Star Hill Farm isn't just making bourbon—it's crafting a legacy that will endure for centuries.

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The legacy of Elmer T. Lee lives on through his namesake single barrel bourbon, where we compare the newest 2025 release with a 2019 bottle to explore how this iconic whiskey maintains its high standards over time.

• Elmer T. Lee was Buffalo Trace's fourth master distiller who revolutionized bourbon by launching Blanton's in 1984 as the first modern single barrel bourbon
• The 2025 Elmer T. Lee delivers exceptional nose with caramel, vanilla, and oak notes, scoring 15/18 in our barrel bottle breakdown
• Comparing 2019 vs 2025 releases shows the newer bottle has more pronounced flavors while the older release has mellowed into an easier-drinking experience
• Elmer sought bourbon with vanilla notes, smooth taste, and no harsh aftertaste – qualities still present in today's releases
• At 90 proof, Elmer T. Lee drinks well above its proof point with excellent viscosity and flavor complexity
• Both releases showcase classic bourbon characteristics with the 2025 bringing more vibrant, attention-commanding flavors

Join us on our Kentucky distillery tour as we visit Maker's Mark and Jack Daniel's in the coming days, with live updates planned throughout the journey.

The enduring legacy of bourbon pioneer Elmer T. Lee takes center stage as we crack open the new 2025 release of his namesake single barrel bourbon. This exploration celebrates the man who revolutionized the industry by introducing Blanton's in 1984 as the first modern single barrel bourbon brand.

The 2025 Elmer T. Lee immediately impresses with an exceptional nose that evokes vintage, dusty bourbons—rich caramel, perfect vanilla balance, and just the right amount of oak with zero ethanol burn. At 90 proof, this bourbon drinks well above its strength, offering remarkable complexity and a viscosity that creates beautiful, long-lasting legs in the glass. The flavor profile delivers everything Elmer himself sought when selecting barrels: pronounced vanilla-forward notes, smooth mouthfeel, and a balanced finish without harsh burn.

What makes this tasting particularly fascinating is the side-by-side comparison with a 2019 bottle. While both expressions showcase the classic Elmer T. Lee character, the 2025 release presents more vibrant, attention-commanding flavors, while the 2019 has mellowed into an exceptionally smooth, approachable pour. This comparison highlights the subtle variations between single barrels selected years apart, while confirming the consistent quality standards established by the master distiller himself.

Through rare interview footage, we hear Elmer describe his selection process in his own words, providing invaluable context for appreciating his bourbon legacy. For anyone fortunate enough to secure a bottle at its retail price of approximately $80, this expression delivers exceptional value and a direct connection to bourbon history. Whether you're new to bourbon or a seasoned enthusiast, Elmer T. Lee continues to represent everything special about Kentucky's native spirit.

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This episode dives into everything March means for bourbon lovers, exploring the unique dynamics between whiskey releases and the excitement of basketball season, dubbed "March Madness." We also touch on the anticipation within the Ohio whiskey community around recent drops and the impact of Irish whiskey during the festive season.

• Discussing why March is such a pivotal month for whiskey enthusiasts
• Overview of major bourbon releases and anticipated drops
• Celebrating the vibrant bourbon community in Ohio
• Exploring the crossover between whiskey and Irish spirits
• Tasting reviews of Fercullen 15 and Augusta bourbons
• Engaging discussions on the idyllic world of whiskey camaraderie

As March kicks off, it's a thrilling time for bourbon enthusiasts and whiskey lovers alike. This month signifies not just the excitement of basketball tournaments but the unveiling of new whiskey releases that elevate the spirits community's experience. Picture this: long-awaited bottles like Elmer T. Lee and Weller 12 suddenly becoming available on the shelves. Each purchase is a little victory, a shared celebration among fellow bourbon enthusiasts, and a reflection of the thriving community spirit.

In this episode, we delve deep into the essence of March Madness within the whiskey world. We highlight the excitement surrounding the newest releases, with some of the most sought-after bourbons dropping as we enter this dynamic month. But it's not just bourbon that gets a spotlight; Irish whiskey is also making its presence known with the upcoming St. Patrick's Day festivities. Through the exploration of flavors, tasting notes, and personal experiences, we invite listeners to appreciate the artistry of both whiskey categories and the stories they carry.

Join us as we share insights into notable tasting experiences of the Fercullen 15 and Augusta bourbons and their unique backgrounds. You'll hear their tasting profiles, along with our thoughts and recommendations regarding these exquisite selections. Plus, we discuss how March is increasingly becoming synonymous not only with basketball madness but also with endless bourbon delights, fostering connections and friendship among the whiskey community.

Ultimately, we encourage listeners to engage actively. We invite bourbon lovers to share their thoughts, experiences, and favorite pours for this lively month. Let’s celebrate the joys of great whiskey and the bonds that come with it! Ready to sip and enjoy? Listen in and raise a glass with us!

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