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The bourbon glut is over, with distilleries reporting exceptional sales and Kentucky Bourbon Festival tickets selling out in just four days rather than months.

• Pandemic caused a temporary slowdown as society reopened and people returned to busier lifestyles
• Political uncertainty during election year contributed to consumer hesitation
• Kentucky Bourbon Festival 2025 completely sold out in four days instead of taking until August
• Secondary market for allocated bottles like Weller has changed as collectors have already acquired them
• Bourbon enthusiasts now seeking unique barrel picks rather than just allocated bottles
• Pot still whiskeys offer different flavor profiles than column still products
• French Lick Spirit distillery's William Dalton (wheated) and Lillian Sinclair (rye) showcase craft bourbon diversity
• American-made whiskeys may benefit from international tariffs as consumers look local

Listen to our barrel picks breakdown with tasting notes on kettle corn, cherry, butterscotch, and fresh-baked bread profiles. Join us for upcoming events including a smoke wagon tasting in Youngstown on May 21st.
Is the bourbon bubble really bursting? Everything you've heard about the "bourbon glut" might be completely wrong. After months of industry predictions about oversupply and waning interest, we're seeing overwhelming evidence of bourbon's resilience and continuing popularity.

The Kentucky Bourbon Festival provides perhaps the clearest indicator – what normally takes until August to sell out disappeared in just four days this year. All 7,500 tickets, gone. Heaven Hill's Bernie Lubbers recently confirmed their exceptional fiscal year, and distilleries across Kentucky are reporting similar success. What many analysts missed was that last year's perceived slowdown was merely a temporary pause as society adjusted post-pandemic and navigated election year uncertainties.

We dive deep into the evolution of bourbon collectors' interests, noting how the secondary market has shifted away from simply chasing allocated bottles like Weller and EH Taylor. Today's enthusiasts are increasingly drawn to unique barrel picks, innovative finishes, and craft distillery releases that offer something different. We also explore how American whiskey stands to benefit from international tariffs, potentially driving more consumers toward domestic products.

The highlight of our episode is an in-depth breakdown of our barrel picks from Spirit of French Lick – the William Dalton (wheated bourbon) and Lillian Sinclair (rye bourbon). Both pot still products offer fascinating tasting notes ranging from kettle corn and cherry to baking spices and fresh bread. These selections represent master distiller Alan Bishop's final barrel picks before his departure, making them particularly special.

Ready to join the continuing bourbon conversation? Listen now, and don't forget our upcoming tasting event in Youngstown on May 21st featuring our smoke wagon barrel picks. The bourbon renaissance is just getting started!

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Bernie Lubbers, Heaven Hill's bourbon ambassador, shares insider knowledge on the distillery's operations, history, and production scale while discussing their impressive portfolio of whiskeys.

• Heaven Hill produces 1,500 barrels daily, operates around 70 rickhouses, and maintains 2.1 million barrels in inventory
• The Shapira family has maintained ownership for nearly 90 years, with three generations actively running the business
• Time is the most expensive ingredient in bourbon production, requiring foresight and patience for investments that take decades to mature
• Heaven Hill has preserved historic bourbon brands like JTS Brown, JW Dant, and Rittenhouse Rye through strategic acquisitions
• The company produces numerous bottled-in-bond expressions, maintaining a tradition that represents American whiskey's gold standard
• Recent increased availability of some Heaven Hill products reflects production expansions made over a decade ago
• The team discusses their experience selecting an Elijah Craig barrel that yielded only 72 bottles with unique honey notes
• Heaven Hill's new Spring Hill distillery in Bardstown represents their first distilling operation in the town since the 1996 fire
• Their portfolio includes innovating with traditional American whiskey styles like corn whiskey and wheat whiskey

If you're interested in trying Heaven Hill products, consider picking up their Bottled-in-Bond expressions or visiting their visitor center in Bardstown for exclusives like the Five Brothers Small Batch.

Step into the world of bourbon legacy and craftsmanship as Bernie Lubbers, Heaven Hill's renowned Bourbon Ambassador, takes us behind the scenes of one of America's most important distilleries. With remarkable candidness and passion, Bernie shares how Heaven Hill has grown to maintain 2.1 million barrels in inventory—representing a staggering 20% of the world's bourbon supply.

What makes this conversation truly special is Bernie's insight into the family-owned operation that has survived when other major distilleries faltered. The Shapira family, now in its third generation of leadership, continues to oversee daily operations with the same dedication that began nearly 90 years ago. As Bernie aptly puts it, "Time is the most expensive ingredient in making whiskey and bourbon"—a philosophy that has guided Heaven Hill through decades of industry fluctuations.

Bernie reveals fascinating details about Heaven Hill's dedication to bottled-in-bond products, explaining how these expressions became cornerstones of their portfolio while other distilleries abandoned the category. We explore their strategic acquisition of historic brands like JTS Brown, JW Dant, and Rittenhouse Rye, preserving pieces of bourbon heritage that might otherwise have disappeared. The conversation also dives into Heaven Hill's newest innovations, from their recently opened distillery in Bardstown to special releases that showcase their mastery of traditional American whiskey styles.

For bourbon enthusiasts, collectors, and casual drinkers alike, this episode offers rare insights into the business decisions, production challenges, and long-term planning required to maintain quality and consistency in whiskey making. Whether you're familiar with Heaven Hill's extensive portfolio or just discovering these storied brands, Bernie's stories and expertise provide a deeper apprecia

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Derby week energizes Kentucky as bourbon enthusiasts and horse racing fans gather for the 151st Run for the Roses, with Woodford Reserve maintaining its tradition of commemorative bottles featuring special artwork.

• Weather forecast predicts heavy rain for Derby Day, dramatically changing race conditions and creating opportunities for mudders
• The bourbon industry shows strong recovery after last year's temporary slowdown, with more limited releases hitting shelves
• Buffalo Trace Antique Collection and other allocated bottles becoming more available across states as production increases
• Woodford Reserve Derby bottles maintain the same quality bourbon (90.4 proof) inside collectible bottles with annual artwork
• Our tasting notes reveal cherry, vanilla, brown sugar, and leather notes earning the standard Woodford a respectable 12.5/18 rating
• Derby horse picks favor Sovereignty at 5-1 odds who performs well in muddy conditions
• Old Forester maintains its connection to Derby tradition through their mint julep recipe
• Special high-end bourbon releases appear at distilleries during Derby week, some priced over $6,000 for charity

Join us at WWW.SCOTCHYBOURBONBOYS.COM for merchandise, past episodes, and all things Scotchy Bourbon Boys. Remember to drink responsibly and live life uncut and unfiltered!

The thundering hooves of Derby week have arrived in Kentucky, bringing bourbon lovers and racing fans together for the 151st running of America's most prestigious horse race. This year's event comes with a muddy forecast that's changing everything from the odds to the racing strategy.

What does a rainy Derby mean for the field? We're breaking down the latest odds where only three horses carry better than 10-1 chances. Our analysis points to Sovereignty at 5-1 as a strong contender in muddy conditions, though long shots like Citizen Bull (20-1) might surprise everyone.

The bourbon side of Derby weekend shines through our exploration of the commemorative Woodford Reserve Derby bottles. These annual releases feature unique artwork while containing their standard 90.4 proof bourbon. Our detailed tasting reveals notes of cherry, vanilla, brown sugar, and a touch of leather on the finish, earning a respectable 12.5/18 on our barrel breakdown scale.

Beyond the races, we're seeing fascinating developments in the bourbon market. Last year's talk of a "whiskey glut" seems premature as enthusiasm surges back. Buffalo Trace releases are becoming more available, Kentucky Bourbon Festival events are selling out in days instead of months, and distilleries are offering special Derby week bottles (some priced over $6,000).

For Derby first-timers looking to participate from home, we've got you covered with mint julep recommendations. The traditional Derby drink typically features Old Forester Rye, though pre-mixed bottles offer an easy alternative for casual fans.

Whether you're heading to Churchill Downs or watching from your living room, join us for this celebration of bourbon tradition and thoroughbred excellence. And if you're placing bets, remember our trifecta: Sovereignty to win, Journalism to place, and Citizen Bull to show!

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We revisit bourbon history with a special tasting of a 1981 Old Taylor bourbon, which reveals the fascinating journey of this historic brand from Colonel EH Taylor through National Distillers to Jim Beam and eventually back to Buffalo Trace.

• Old Taylor transitioned from its original distillery (now Castle & Key) to Jim Beam production in the 1970s
• This 1981 bottle represents the Jim Beam era when they used their 75% corn/13% rye/12% barley mash bill
• Despite being only 86 proof and 6 years old, this dusty bottle achieves a perfect 18/18 on our rating system
• The profile features burnt caramel corn and candy sweetness with an unexpected maple syrup finish
• Buffalo Trace (Sazerac) eventually purchased the brand back in 2009, bringing it full circle
• Middle West Spirits gets a brief mention for their unique weeded bourbon offerings
• Upcoming events include Walker's farewell party at Amore Restaurant on May 9th
• We'll be visiting Old Homestead, Spirits of French Lick, and Old Carter in upcoming travels
• The Steel Valley Bourbon Association will host a dinner featuring our barrel pick

Join us next week for our special Derby podcast where we'll discuss Old Forrester, Brown-Forman and Woodford Reserve's connections to the Kentucky Derby.

A sip of bourbon history awaits as we uncork a treasured 1981 Old Taylor – a 200ml time capsule gifted for my 60th birthday that connects us to bourbon's fascinating past. This dusty bottle represents a unique moment in Kentucky whiskey history when Jim Beam owned the legendary brand created by Colonel EH Taylor Jr., the father of modern bourbon and champion of the 1897 Bottled-in-Bond Act.

The journey of Old Taylor weaves through Kentucky's bourbon landscape – from Taylor's original distillery (now Castle & Key) through National Distillers during Prohibition, eventually landing at Jim Beam in 1972 where this particular bottle was produced using their classic 75% corn, 13% rye, 12% malted barley recipe. What makes this tasting extraordinary is experiencing how a modest 86-proof, six-year bourbon from four decades ago delivers exceptional quality that rivals today's premium offerings.

Our Old Louisville Whiskey Company Barrel Bottle Breakdown reveals a perfect 18/18 score with remarkable tasting notes: burnt caramel corn aromatics, candy-like sweetness on the palate, and a surprising maple syrup finish that lingers impressively. The viscosity and mouthfeel defy its modest proof, creating an experience that transcends time and connects us directly to bourbon's golden era before the modern whiskey boom.

For bourbon enthusiasts, these dusty treasures offer more than nostalgic sipping – they provide perspective on how distillation, aging, and blending techniques have evolved while highlighting the consistent craftsmanship that defines Kentucky's signature spirit. Whether you're a seasoned collector or curious newcomer, seeking out these liquid time capsules offers a unique window into bourbon's rich heritage.

Join us next week for our special Derby podcast where we'll explore the deep connections between Old Forrester, Brown-Forman, Woodford Reserve and Kentucky's most famous horse race. Until then, remember that good bourbon equals good times and good friends – live your life uncut and unfiltered!

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Yellowstone Bourbon honors America's first national park while exploring the rich history behind this iconic brand that dates back to 1872. Stephen Beam, descending from two legendary distilling families, revived this historic label through Limestone Branch Distillery, continuing a tradition that survived Prohibition and multiple ownership changes.

• One dollar from every bottle sold supports Yellowstone National Park
• The brand was one of only six distilleries permitted to sell medicinal whiskey during Prohibition
• Stephen Beam founded Limestone Branch in 2010, merging his family heritage with modern distilling
• Limestone Branch began with just one barrel per day production capacity
• Brand ambassador Stephen Fonte travels with cigars and bourbon for pairing experiences
• The Toasted expression offers notes of root beer, sarsaparilla, burnt caramel, and cinnamon
• The Beam and Dant families were united through marriage, connecting two distilling dynasties
• Yellowstone's label features the iconic waterfall from the national park

Join us next week for Derby Week festivities as we continue our exploration of America's historic bourbon brands and their connections to Kentucky traditions.

The rich legacy of Yellowstone Bourbon stretches back to 1872, when this historic brand was established to honor America's first national park. Tonight, we journey through time to uncover how two of Kentucky's greatest distilling families—the Beams and the Dants—created a whiskey tradition that has survived Prohibition, changing ownership, and industry consolidation to emerge stronger than ever.

Stephen & Paul Beam, carrying the bloodline of both legendary families, founded Limestone Branch Distillery in 2010 with a mission to reclaim their family's heritage. Starting with just one barrel per day and fermenting in modest equipment, They eventually partnered with Luxco to become the steward's of Yellowstone—a brand that once belonged to his ancestors. We explore how this full-circle journey represents the heart and soul of Kentucky bourbon culture.

What makes Yellowstone toasted truly special goes beyond its remarkable flavor profile of root beer, burnt caramel, and cinnamon toast notes. For every bottle sold, one dollar supports conservation efforts at Yellowstone National Park, creating a connection between America's whiskey heritage and its natural treasures. The iconic waterfall label serves as a reminder of this unique partnership between distilling and conservation.

We're joined by Knobs for his first podcast appearance with his new nickname as we sample Yellowstone's acclaimed Toasted expression, breaking down its aroma, body, taste, and finish through our signature Old Louisville Whiskey Company Barrel Bottle Breakdown rating system. Along the way, we debate the science of neck pours, the effect of synthetic corks, and whether bourbon evolves after it leaves the barrel—all while celebrating the storytelling tradition that makes bourbon culture so captivating.

Have you experienced Yellowstone's connection to America's first national park? Share your thoughts, subscribe to our podcast, and join us next week for Derby Week as we continue celebrating the spirits that make Kentucky famous!

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The Scotchy Bourbon Boys dive deep into Maker's Mark's Wood Finishing Series, comparing the 2024 Heart Release and 2025 Keepers Release while exploring the brand's evolution from its wheated bourbon origins to its innovative stave-finishing techniques.

• Wood Finishing Series represents Maker's Mark's expanding approach to bourbon making through French oak stave finishing
• Heart Release (111.7 proof) showcases the distillery team with fruit-forward notes of caramel, maple and chocolate
• Keepers Release (109.3 proof) honors the warehouse teams with bold oak and toasted sweetness characteristics
• The Maker's Mark Ambassador Program allows fans to follow a barrel's journey and eventually purchase bottles from their own barrel
• Both limited releases demonstrate how Maker's has evolved while maintaining the smooth character Bill Samuels Sr. originally intended
• Dark Arts Whiskey House is taking finishing techniques to new levels by sourcing specific oak from individual French forests
• The bourbon industry continuously evolves as consumer preferences shift toward higher proof, more complex offerings

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From humble beginnings in the rolling hills of Kentucky to becoming a globally recognized brand with that iconic red wax seal, Maker's Mark exemplifies how tradition and innovation can brilliantly coexist. The Scotchy Bourbon Boys take you behind the scenes of Maker's Mark's Wood Finishing Series, exploring how this historic distillery continues to push boundaries while honoring its wheated bourbon legacy.

The 2024 Heart Release (111.7 proof) and 2025 Keepers Release (109.3 proof) each tell a unique story through their distinct flavor profiles. The Heart Release celebrates the distillery team with fruit-forward notes of caramel, maple and chocolate, while the Keepers Release honors the warehouse teams with bold oak and toasted sweetness. Through meticulous tasting, we break down how the strategic placement of French oak staves transforms the classic Maker's profile in unexpected and delightful ways.

Beyond the bottles themselves, we uncover the rich heritage of Star Hill Farm, where the Maker's Mark story began in 1953 when Bill Samuels Sr. set out to create a more refined, palatable bourbon without the harsh bite common in whiskeys of that era. The distillery's commitment to quality shines through their Ambassador Program, which allows fans to follow a barrel's journey from filling to bottling—culminating in the opportunity to purchase bottles from your very own barrel.

The evolution of Maker's Mark mirrors broader trends in bourbon appreciation, with today's enthusiasts embracing higher proofs and more complex flavor profiles than ever before. Through our "Barrel Bottle Breakdown" rating system, we evaluate what makes these limited releases special and why they've become so sought-after among collectors and casual drinkers alike. Join us for this spirited exploration of how Maker's Mark continues to innovate while staying true to its roots.

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This batch of Booker's, named "Barry's Batch" in honor of former Beam CEO Barry Berish, delivers a remarkably smooth drinking experience despite its 125.7 proof, with rich caramel, peanut butter, and warm spice notes creating a perfect fireside sipper.

• First Booker's release of 2025 (Batch 2501) honoring Barry Berish, former Beam chairman who passed away in early 2024
• Aged 7 years, 2 months, 4 days with barrels from five different warehouse locations
• Classic Jim Beam mash bill: 77% corn, 13% rye, 10% malted barley
• Exceptional caramel-forward aroma with notes of peanut butter on the nose
• Drinks smoother than its 125.7 proof might suggest
• Adding a few drops of water enhances the peanut butter fudge notes
• Over ice brings out more graham cracker and reduces any mustiness
• Our barrel bottle breakdown score: 15 out of 18 possible points
• Available for approximately $100, making it a solid value for a premium limited release
• Demonstrates Fred Noe's commitment to maintaining Booker's legacy and quality

Remember, as Booker always said, enjoy it "any damn way you please" – neat, with water, or over ice!

The first Booker's release of 2025 pays heartfelt tribute to a bourbon legend who helped shape the industry as we know it today. Barry's Batch, named for former Beam chairman and CEO Barry Berish, celebrates a man who guided the company for over 40 years until his passing earlier this year.

This exceptional batch delivers everything bourbon enthusiasts seek in a premium barrel-strength release. At 125.7 proof, you might expect an aggressive heat, but Barry's Batch surprises with remarkable approachability. The nose immediately captivates with rich caramel aromas complemented by hints of peanut butter and vanilla that promise a memorable tasting experience.

The flavor journey begins with honey sweetness on the tongue, developing into luscious caramel mid-palate before revealing warming cinnamon and allspice notes. What truly distinguishes this batch is its perfect balance – delivering full-bodied intensity without overwhelming the palate. Following Booker's philosophy of drinking bourbon "any damn way you please," we explored it neat, with a few drops of water (which amplified delightful peanut butter fudge notes), and over ice (bringing forward subtle graham cracker flavors).

Aged 7 years, 2 months, and 4 days, this release demonstrates the meticulous barrel selection process that has become a hallmark of the Booker's brand. The blend incorporates barrels from five different warehouse locations, creating a complexity that tells the story of Kentucky's unpredictable aging environment. Each sip offers a window into why Booker's remains one of the most sought-after limited releases in American whiskey.

Whether you're a longtime Booker's enthusiast or new to barrel-strength bourbon, Barry's Batch represents a fitting tribute to both its namesake and the enduring legacy of the Beam family. Pour yourself a glass, raise it to Barry, and discover why this bourbon scored an impressive 15/18 on our scale. What memorable bourbon experience will you share with friends tonight?

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The Kentucky Bourbon Festival has transformed from a small event with 9 distilleries to a premier bourbon celebration featuring 62 distilleries, with exclusive releases and direct access to master distillers. KBF President Randy Prasse shares how the festival has evolved to focus on authentic experiences connecting bourbon enthusiasts with the people who make their favorite spirits.

• Festival started in 1991 and has grown to become the #1 bourbon festival Globally.
• Distilleries now view the festival as the perfect venue to reveal new products and limited releases
• For 2025, the festival will feature improved layout and direct-to-consumer bottle shipping for most states
• The three-day general admission ticket $195 ( discounted for insiders) provides exceptional value compared to typical bourbon bar tabs
• Angels Envy is the featured distillery for 2025, known for bringing their "A-game" to festival experiences
• New President's Club offering provides ultra-premium experience for dedicated enthusiasts
• Tickets go on sale May 16th at noon Eastern, with newsletter subscribers getting first access and discounts

Visit KYBourbonFestival.com to sign up for the insider newsletter and secure your tickets for the September 4-6 event in Bardstown, Kentucky.

Step into the heart of bourbon country at the Kentucky Bourbon Festival, where the world's finest distillers converge to celebrate America's native spirit. What began as a modest gathering has blossomed into bourbon's premier event, bringing 62 distilleries—from iconic heritage brands to innovative craft producers—directly to enthusiasts in the Bourbon Capital of the World.

Unlike typical spirits festivals, this September 4-6 celebration in Bardstown offers unprecedented access to the people behind your favorite bourbons. Master distillers, blenders, and brand founders don't just make appearances—they're actively pouring, sharing stories, and engaging with guests throughout the three-day event. This authentic connection between makers and enthusiasts creates an atmosphere that can't be replicated anywhere else.

The festival has become the industry's preferred platform for unveiling new products and limited releases. Distilleries reserve their most special bottlings for this weekend, giving attendees first access to expressions that may never reach retail shelves. For 2025, the festival is introducing direct-to-consumer shipping, allowing guests from most states to purchase exclusive bottles without worrying about luggage space. Beyond tastings, the expanded programming includes 20 educational events, live entertainment, culinary experiences, and a thoughtfully designed marketplace.

What truly distinguishes this festival is its unwavering focus on "whiskey and the people who make it." Despite its growth, the event maintains the warm, welcoming spirit of Kentucky hospitality. At $195 for a three-day general admission pass (with insider discounts available), it represents remarkable value considering the caliber of spirits and experiences offered. Whether you're beginning your bourbon journey or maintaining an extensive collection, these three days in September promise memorable encounters with exceptional whiskeys and the passionate people creating them.

Sign up at KYBourbonFestival.com to become an insider and secure your tickets when they go on sale May 16th. Join

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