Bourbon guys (2 Viewers)

[DA RAIDERS]

I got a bottle of knob creek single barrel select bourbon in my FBG t shirt package today. “Nic’s bar & cheers colab” 120 proof!

I know next to nothing about bourbon. Is it any good? Pretty sure it will get me drunk.

 

[nirad3]

I got a bottle of knob creek single barrel select bourbon in my FBG t shirt package today. “Nic’s bar & cheers colab” 120 proof!

I know next to nothing about bourbon. Is it any good? Pretty sure it will get me drunk.

Knob Creek is pretty darn good stuff, and it's just the regular production stuff that I've had. I'm sure the bottle you got is way better.

I threw myself a changeup and switched back to bourbon (from vodka) a couple of weeks ago, and I think I may have mentioned it in this thread (or somewhere here), but the bourbon buzz is far different than the vodka buzz. Takes me WAY less bourbon to catch it and it's more of a euphoric buzz whereas vodka seems more... stable? I'm able to drink way more vodka (like on a college football Saturday, for example). I guess that's why/how vodka was always my booze of choice when I spent time any time in Vegas, and why bourbon was/is my go-to when I'm just headed out for the evening with friends or whatever. Two completely different buzzes.

Enjoy the Knob!

 

[DA RAIDERS]

I got a bottle of knob creek single barrel select bourbon in my FBG t shirt package today. “Nic’s bar & cheers colab” 120 proof!

I know next to nothing about bourbon. Is it any good? Pretty sure it will get me drunk.

Knob Creek is pretty darn good stuff, and it's just the regular production stuff that I've had. I'm sure the bottle you got is way better.

I threw myself a changeup and switched back to bourbon (from vodka) a couple of weeks ago, and I think I may have mentioned it in this thread (or somewhere here), but the bourbon buzz is far different than the vodka buzz. Takes me WAY less bourbon to catch it and it's more of a euphoric buzz whereas vodka seems more... stable? I'm able to drink way more vodka (like on a college football Saturday, for example). I guess that's why/how vodka was always my booze of choice when I spent time any time in Vegas, and why bourbon was/is my go-to when I'm just headed out for the evening with friends or whatever. Two completely different buzzes.

Enjoy the Knob!

I know the basics. I’ve been in the biz forever, but am new to drinking/appreciating whiskey. The joker posted an explanation in the tshirt thread. Basically it’s a special barrel that was chosen via taste test and then supplied to Jules’ work

 

[Rig24]

Grabbed a bottle of Bardstown High Wheat and did a side by side with Weller 107. While I do really like the Bardstown, it doesn't come close to the heights of 107. I'd buy again, but wouldn't go hunting for it.

 

[MrJimiT]

I got a bottle of knob creek single barrel select bourbon in my FBG t shirt package today. “Nic’s bar & cheers colab” 120 proof!

I know next to nothing about bourbon. Is it any good? Pretty sure it will get me drunk.

When I started out with dabbling in the bourbon culture, Knob Creek SB 120 was one of my starters. Over the years I have tried to replace it with more expensive, harder to find, bigger hyped brands, etc. But now, I find myself simply enjoying the stuff I started out with...the Knob Creeks, the Wild Turkeys, and such. KC SB 120 is really good stuff and is normally pretty easy to find in grocery stores or your favorite "place". I just recently picked up a KB SB 120 store pick from Binny's when I was in Rockford, IL on a visit. I like it and I enjoy it. Hope you do as well!!

 

[wlwiles]

Just got a text yesterday from one of my local stores that they finally got a delivery of Stagg in for the first time this year, and my buddy set one aside for me. I think it's batch 24B, but will confirm when I get my hands on it (hopefully tomorrow).

They also just got in a new barrel pick of Old Forester Barrel Strength Bourbon, so going to have to grab that one as well.

 

[Rig24]

just traded 2 CYPBs for a '23 JTS. My first BTAC, looking forward to opening it up.

 

[nirad3]

Just got a text yesterday from one of my local stores that they finally got a delivery of Stagg in for the first time this year, and my buddy set one aside for me. I think it's batch 24B, but will confirm when I get my hands on it (hopefully tomorrow).

They also just got in a new barrel pick of Old Forester Barrel Strength Bourbon, so going to have to grab that one as well.

I love Old Forester. I haven't seen this particular bottle, but I know I've seen 3 types: the "el cheapo", which is fine... a "middle" variety.... and a more expensive bottle.

The "middle" version is my favorite. I think it's name is a year or something... 1830-something maybe?

 

[Galileo]

just traded 2 CYPBs for a '23 JTS. My first BTAC, looking forward to opening it up.

You've been had...JTS Brown is only a $20 bottle!!

 

[Galileo]

Just got a text yesterday from one of my local stores that they finally got a delivery of Stagg in for the first time this year, and my buddy set one aside for me. I think it's batch 24B, but will confirm when I get my hands on it (hopefully tomorrow).

They also just got in a new barrel pick of Old Forester Barrel Strength Bourbon, so going to have to grab that one as well.

I love Old Forester. I haven't seen this particular bottle, but I know I've seen 3 types: the "el cheapo", which is fine... a "middle" variety.... and a more expensive bottle.

The "middle" version is my favorite. I think it's name is a year or something... 1830-something maybe?

The Old Forester bourbons with years for the name is what they call their Whiskey Row Series... 1870, 1897, 1910, 1920, and 1924. Each of the years is to acknowledge some bit of distillery or whiskey history. 1870 - Distillery beginning; 1897 - Bottled in Bond Act; 1910 - Fire at distillery bottling line forced them to store mature whiskey in secondary barrels (double oaked); 1920 - Prohibition; 1924 - Old Forester was able to operate during prohibition under a medical license. In 1924, as many other distilleries closed their doors, Old Forester acquired many barrels of whiskey from them and bottled it under their brand. The 1924 is the most recent and most expensive of that Whiskey Row lineup.

 

[nirad3]

Just got a text yesterday from one of my local stores that they finally got a delivery of Stagg in for the first time this year, and my buddy set one aside for me. I think it's batch 24B, but will confirm when I get my hands on it (hopefully tomorrow).

They also just got in a new barrel pick of Old Forester Barrel Strength Bourbon, so going to have to grab that one as well.

I love Old Forester. I haven't seen this particular bottle, but I know I've seen 3 types: the "el cheapo", which is fine... a "middle" variety.... and a more expensive bottle.

The "middle" version is my favorite. I think it's name is a year or something... 1830-something maybe?

The Old Forester bourbons with years for the name is what they call their Whiskey Row Series... 1870, 1897, 1910, 1920, and 1924. Each of the years is to acknowledge some bit of distillery or whiskey history. 1870 - Distillery beginning; 1897 - Bottled in Bond Act; 1910 - Fire at distillery bottling line forced them to store mature whiskey in secondary barrels (double oaked); 1920 - Prohibition; 1924 - Old Forester was able to operate during prohibition under a medical license. In 1924, as many other distilleries closed their doors, Old Forester acquired many barrels of whiskey from them and bottled it under their brand. The 1924 is the most recent and most expensive of that Whiskey Row lineup.

Thanks for the detail. I'm not sure which one(s) I've had but it was one of their less-expensive (but not the cheapest) that I really liked. Gotta find me a bottle of that soon... I've been slummin' it with Jim Beam.

 

[Rig24]

just traded 2 CYPBs for a '23 JTS. My first BTAC, looking forward to opening it up.

You've been had...JTS Brown is only a $20 bottle!!

Nothing but typos for me lately...GTS

 

[Galileo]

Just got a text yesterday from one of my local stores that they finally got a delivery of Stagg in for the first time this year, and my buddy set one aside for me. I think it's batch 24B, but will confirm when I get my hands on it (hopefully tomorrow).

They also just got in a new barrel pick of Old Forester Barrel Strength Bourbon, so going to have to grab that one as well.

I love Old Forester. I haven't seen this particular bottle, but I know I've seen 3 types: the "el cheapo", which is fine... a "middle" variety.... and a more expensive bottle.

The "middle" version is my favorite. I think it's name is a year or something... 1830-something maybe?

The Old Forester bourbons with years for the name is what they call their Whiskey Row Series... 1870, 1897, 1910, 1920, and 1924. Each of the years is to acknowledge some bit of distillery or whiskey history. 1870 - Distillery beginning; 1897 - Bottled in Bond Act; 1910 - Fire at distillery bottling line forced them to store mature whiskey in secondary barrels (double oaked); 1920 - Prohibition; 1924 - Old Forester was able to operate during prohibition under a medical license. In 1924, as many other distilleries closed their doors, Old Forester acquired many barrels of whiskey from them and bottled it under their brand. The 1924 is the most recent and most expensive of that Whiskey Row lineup.

Thanks for the detail. I'm not sure which one(s) I've had but it was one of their less-expensive (but not the cheapest) that I really liked. Gotta find me a bottle of that soon... I've been slummin' it with Jim Beam.

In Ohio: 1870 - $47; 1897 - $52; 1910 - $57; 1920 - $62; 1924 - $115 but you can't get the 1924...been available once in Ohio. The others are shelfers. Not counting the 1924 due to scarcity and lack of owning a bottle, the 1910 is my favorite of the series, but I made a "1915" blend of the 1910 and 1920 that I think I like better than the 1910.

 

[nirad3]

Just got a text yesterday from one of my local stores that they finally got a delivery of Stagg in for the first time this year, and my buddy set one aside for me. I think it's batch 24B, but will confirm when I get my hands on it (hopefully tomorrow).

They also just got in a new barrel pick of Old Forester Barrel Strength Bourbon, so going to have to grab that one as well.

I love Old Forester. I haven't seen this particular bottle, but I know I've seen 3 types: the "el cheapo", which is fine... a "middle" variety.... and a more expensive bottle.

The "middle" version is my favorite. I think it's name is a year or something... 1830-something maybe?

The Old Forester bourbons with years for the name is what they call their Whiskey Row Series... 1870, 1897, 1910, 1920, and 1924. Each of the years is to acknowledge some bit of distillery or whiskey history. 1870 - Distillery beginning; 1897 - Bottled in Bond Act; 1910 - Fire at distillery bottling line forced them to store mature whiskey in secondary barrels (double oaked); 1920 - Prohibition; 1924 - Old Forester was able to operate during prohibition under a medical license. In 1924, as many other distilleries closed their doors, Old Forester acquired many barrels of whiskey from them and bottled it under their brand. The 1924 is the most recent and most expensive of that Whiskey Row lineup.

Thanks for the detail. I'm not sure which one(s) I've had but it was one of their less-expensive (but not the cheapest) that I really liked. Gotta find me a bottle of that soon... I've been slummin' it with Jim Beam.

In Ohio: 1870 - $47; 1897 - $52; 1910 - $57; 1920 - $62; 1924 - $115 but you can't get the 1924...been available once in Ohio. The others are shelfers. Not counting the 1924 due to scarcity and lack of owning a bottle, the 1910 is my favorite of the series, but I made a "1915" blend of the 1910 and 1920 that I think I like better than the 1910.

Golly I honestly didn't realize they had so many. I may just go to my local BevMo or equivalent and see what they have for $50ish and just try that out. Thanks for the info.

 

[Rig24]

Just got a text yesterday from one of my local stores that they finally got a delivery of Stagg in for the first time this year, and my buddy set one aside for me. I think it's batch 24B, but will confirm when I get my hands on it (hopefully tomorrow).

They also just got in a new barrel pick of Old Forester Barrel Strength Bourbon, so going to have to grab that one as well.

I love Old Forester. I haven't seen this particular bottle, but I know I've seen 3 types: the "el cheapo", which is fine... a "middle" variety.... and a more expensive bottle.

The "middle" version is my favorite. I think it's name is a year or something... 1830-something maybe?

The Old Forester bourbons with years for the name is what they call their Whiskey Row Series... 1870, 1897, 1910, 1920, and 1924. Each of the years is to acknowledge some bit of distillery or whiskey history. 1870 - Distillery beginning; 1897 - Bottled in Bond Act; 1910 - Fire at distillery bottling line forced them to store mature whiskey in secondary barrels (double oaked); 1920 - Prohibition; 1924 - Old Forester was able to operate during prohibition under a medical license. In 1924, as many other distilleries closed their doors, Old Forester acquired many barrels of whiskey from them and bottled it under their brand. The 1924 is the most recent and most expensive of that Whiskey Row lineup.

Thanks for the detail. I'm not sure which one(s) I've had but it was one of their less-expensive (but not the cheapest) that I really liked. Gotta find me a bottle of that soon... I've been slummin' it with Jim Beam.

In Ohio: 1870 - $47; 1897 - $52; 1910 - $57; 1920 - $62; 1924 - $115 but you can't get the 1924...been available once in Ohio. The others are shelfers. Not counting the 1924 due to scarcity and lack of owning a bottle, the 1910 is my favorite of the series, but I made a "1915" blend of the 1910 and 1920 that I think I like better than the 1910.

Golly I honestly didn't realize they had so many. I may just go to my local BevMo or equivalent and see what they have for $50ish and just try that out. Thanks for the info.

A couple years ago I got a gift set at Costco, had 375ml bottles of 1870, 1897, 1910 and 1920 for around 80. Was a great way to get started with OF

 

[Galileo]

Just got a text yesterday from one of my local stores that they finally got a delivery of Stagg in for the first time this year, and my buddy set one aside for me. I think it's batch 24B, but will confirm when I get my hands on it (hopefully tomorrow).

They also just got in a new barrel pick of Old Forester Barrel Strength Bourbon, so going to have to grab that one as well.

I love Old Forester. I haven't seen this particular bottle, but I know I've seen 3 types: the "el cheapo", which is fine... a "middle" variety.... and a more expensive bottle.

The "middle" version is my favorite. I think it's name is a year or something... 1830-something maybe?

The Old Forester bourbons with years for the name is what they call their Whiskey Row Series... 1870, 1897, 1910, 1920, and 1924. Each of the years is to acknowledge some bit of distillery or whiskey history. 1870 - Distillery beginning; 1897 - Bottled in Bond Act; 1910 - Fire at distillery bottling line forced them to store mature whiskey in secondary barrels (double oaked); 1920 - Prohibition; 1924 - Old Forester was able to operate during prohibition under a medical license. In 1924, as many other distilleries closed their doors, Old Forester acquired many barrels of whiskey from them and bottled it under their brand. The 1924 is the most recent and most expensive of that Whiskey Row lineup.

Thanks for the detail. I'm not sure which one(s) I've had but it was one of their less-expensive (but not the cheapest) that I really liked. Gotta find me a bottle of that soon... I've been slummin' it with Jim Beam.

In Ohio: 1870 - $47; 1897 - $52; 1910 - $57; 1920 - $62; 1924 - $115 but you can't get the 1924...been available once in Ohio. The others are shelfers. Not counting the 1924 due to scarcity and lack of owning a bottle, the 1910 is my favorite of the series, but I made a "1915" blend of the 1910 and 1920 that I think I like better than the 1910.

Golly I honestly didn't realize they had so many. I may just go to my local BevMo or equivalent and see what they have for $50ish and just try that out. Thanks for the info.

Old Forester has several more besides than that Whiskey Row Series...dive in!

 

[MrJimiT]

Not counting the 1924 due to scarcity and lack of owning a bottle, the 1910 is my favorite of the series, but I made a "1915" blend of the 1910 and 1920 that I think I like better than the 1910.

OF1920 was a longtime favorite of mine. Now my tastes have shifted a bit more towards OF1910. However, I love the 1915 blend as well. Good call!!

 

[beer 30]

Just got a text yesterday from one of my local stores that they finally got a delivery of Stagg in for the first time this year, and my buddy set one aside for me. I think it's batch 24B, but will confirm when I get my hands on it (hopefully tomorrow).

They also just got in a new barrel pick of Old Forester Barrel Strength Bourbon, so going to have to grab that one as well.

I love Old Forester. I haven't seen this particular bottle, but I know I've seen 3 types: the "el cheapo", which is fine... a "middle" variety.... and a more expensive bottle.

The "middle" version is my favorite. I think it's name is a year or something... 1830-something maybe?

The Old Forester bourbons with years for the name is what they call their Whiskey Row Series... 1870, 1897, 1910, 1920, and 1924. Each of the years is to acknowledge some bit of distillery or whiskey history. 1870 - Distillery beginning; 1897 - Bottled in Bond Act; 1910 - Fire at distillery bottling line forced them to store mature whiskey in secondary barrels (double oaked); 1920 - Prohibition; 1924 - Old Forester was able to operate during prohibition under a medical license. In 1924, as many other distilleries closed their doors, Old Forester acquired many barrels of whiskey from them and bottled it under their brand. The 1924 is the most recent and most expensive of that Whiskey Row lineup.

Thanks for the detail. I'm not sure which one(s) I've had but it was one of their less-expensive (but not the cheapest) that I really liked. Gotta find me a bottle of that soon... I've been slummin' it with Jim Beam.

1910 is my favorite Old Forester every day drinker. Think it's 87 proof, the 1920 is the 115 proof. You can get sidewise with that pretty quick. I had the Statesman a while back and really liked it, kind of a split between the 1910 and 1920.

 

[odin33]

Just got a text yesterday from one of my local stores that they finally got a delivery of Stagg in for the first time this year, and my buddy set one aside for me. I think it's batch 24B, but will confirm when I get my hands on it (hopefully tomorrow).

They also just got in a new barrel pick of Old Forester Barrel Strength Bourbon, so going to have to grab that one as well.

I love Old Forester. I haven't seen this particular bottle, but I know I've seen 3 types: the "el cheapo", which is fine... a "middle" variety.... and a more expensive bottle.

The "middle" version is my favorite. I think it's name is a year or something... 1830-something maybe?

The Old Forester bourbons with years for the name is what they call their Whiskey Row Series... 1870, 1897, 1910, 1920, and 1924. Each of the years is to acknowledge some bit of distillery or whiskey history. 1870 - Distillery beginning; 1897 - Bottled in Bond Act; 1910 - Fire at distillery bottling line forced them to store mature whiskey in secondary barrels (double oaked); 1920 - Prohibition; 1924 - Old Forester was able to operate during prohibition under a medical license. In 1924, as many other distilleries closed their doors, Old Forester acquired many barrels of whiskey from them and bottled it under their brand. The 1924 is the most recent and most expensive of that Whiskey Row lineup.

Thanks for the detail. I'm not sure which one(s) I've had but it was one of their less-expensive (but not the cheapest) that I really liked. Gotta find me a bottle of that soon... I've been slummin' it with Jim Beam.

1910 is my favorite Old Forester every day drinker. Think it's 87 proof, the 1920 is the 115 proof. You can get sidewise with that pretty quick. I had the Statesman a while back and really liked it, kind of a split between the 1910 and 1920.

or my lazy butt can look it up- 95 proof
Happen to recall the proof on the statesman. Like both 1910 and 1920 (1915 sounds like a great idea), but if I can buy it already 'premade' and it's not too high proof I'll have to try a bottle.

 

[beer 30]

Just got a text yesterday from one of my local stores that they finally got a delivery of Stagg in for the first time this year, and my buddy set one aside for me. I think it's batch 24B, but will confirm when I get my hands on it (hopefully tomorrow).

They also just got in a new barrel pick of Old Forester Barrel Strength Bourbon, so going to have to grab that one as well.

I love Old Forester. I haven't seen this particular bottle, but I know I've seen 3 types: the "el cheapo", which is fine... a "middle" variety.... and a more expensive bottle.

The "middle" version is my favorite. I think it's name is a year or something... 1830-something maybe?

The Old Forester bourbons with years for the name is what they call their Whiskey Row Series... 1870, 1897, 1910, 1920, and 1924. Each of the years is to acknowledge some bit of distillery or whiskey history. 1870 - Distillery beginning; 1897 - Bottled in Bond Act; 1910 - Fire at distillery bottling line forced them to store mature whiskey in secondary barrels (double oaked); 1920 - Prohibition; 1924 - Old Forester was able to operate during prohibition under a medical license. In 1924, as many other distilleries closed their doors, Old Forester acquired many barrels of whiskey from them and bottled it under their brand. The 1924 is the most recent and most expensive of that Whiskey Row lineup.

Thanks for the detail. I'm not sure which one(s) I've had but it was one of their less-expensive (but not the cheapest) that I really liked. Gotta find me a bottle of that soon... I've been slummin' it with Jim Beam.

1910 is my favorite Old Forester every day drinker. Think it's 87 proof, the 1920 is the 115 proof. You can get sidewise with that pretty quick. I had the Statesman a while back and really liked it, kind of a split between the 1910 and 1920.

Happen to recall the proof on the statesman. Like both 1910 and 1920 (1915 sounds like a great idea), but if I can buy it already 'premade' and it's not too high proof I'll have to try a bottle.

95 proof I believe

 

[Leeroy Jenkins]

I "won" some Blanton's that I have never had before:

Original Single Barrel (July 2024)

Takara Black (April 2023)

Anybody have these before?

 

[Galileo]

Just got a text yesterday from one of my local stores that they finally got a delivery of Stagg in for the first time this year, and my buddy set one aside for me. I think it's batch 24B, but will confirm when I get my hands on it (hopefully tomorrow).

They also just got in a new barrel pick of Old Forester Barrel Strength Bourbon, so going to have to grab that one as well.

I love Old Forester. I haven't seen this particular bottle, but I know I've seen 3 types: the "el cheapo", which is fine... a "middle" variety.... and a more expensive bottle.

The "middle" version is my favorite. I think it's name is a year or something... 1830-something maybe?

The Old Forester bourbons with years for the name is what they call their Whiskey Row Series... 1870, 1897, 1910, 1920, and 1924. Each of the years is to acknowledge some bit of distillery or whiskey history. 1870 - Distillery beginning; 1897 - Bottled in Bond Act; 1910 - Fire at distillery bottling line forced them to store mature whiskey in secondary barrels (double oaked); 1920 - Prohibition; 1924 - Old Forester was able to operate during prohibition under a medical license. In 1924, as many other distilleries closed their doors, Old Forester acquired many barrels of whiskey from them and bottled it under their brand. The 1924 is the most recent and most expensive of that Whiskey Row lineup.

Thanks for the detail. I'm not sure which one(s) I've had but it was one of their less-expensive (but not the cheapest) that I really liked. Gotta find me a bottle of that soon... I've been slummin' it with Jim Beam.

1910 is my favorite Old Forester every day drinker. Think it's 87 proof, the 1920 is the 115 proof. You can get sidewise with that pretty quick. I had the Statesman a while back and really liked it, kind of a split between the 1910 and 1920.

Happen to recall the proof on the statesman. Like both 1910 and 1920 (1915 sounds like a great idea), but if I can buy it already 'premade' and it's not too high proof I'll have to try a bottle.

95 proof I believe

1910 is 93 proof. I would love a higher proof version of 1910. It is very sweet compared to some of the other Old Foresters, so the added proof mixing with the 115 proof 1920 is nice. A 50-50 blend puts the proof at 104. I also tried 60-40 blends both ways. I blinded the three blends against each other and liked the 50-50 mix the best. YMMV

 

[beer 30]

Just got a text yesterday from one of my local stores that they finally got a delivery of Stagg in for the first time this year, and my buddy set one aside for me. I think it's batch 24B, but will confirm when I get my hands on it (hopefully tomorrow).

They also just got in a new barrel pick of Old Forester Barrel Strength Bourbon, so going to have to grab that one as well.

I love Old Forester. I haven't seen this particular bottle, but I know I've seen 3 types: the "el cheapo", which is fine... a "middle" variety.... and a more expensive bottle.

The "middle" version is my favorite. I think it's name is a year or something... 1830-something maybe?

The Old Forester bourbons with years for the name is what they call their Whiskey Row Series... 1870, 1897, 1910, 1920, and 1924. Each of the years is to acknowledge some bit of distillery or whiskey history. 1870 - Distillery beginning; 1897 - Bottled in Bond Act; 1910 - Fire at distillery bottling line forced them to store mature whiskey in secondary barrels (double oaked); 1920 - Prohibition; 1924 - Old Forester was able to operate during prohibition under a medical license. In 1924, as many other distilleries closed their doors, Old Forester acquired many barrels of whiskey from them and bottled it under their brand. The 1924 is the most recent and most expensive of that Whiskey Row lineup.

Thanks for the detail. I'm not sure which one(s) I've had but it was one of their less-expensive (but not the cheapest) that I really liked. Gotta find me a bottle of that soon... I've been slummin' it with Jim Beam.

1910 is my favorite Old Forester every day drinker. Think it's 87 proof, the 1920 is the 115 proof. You can get sidewise with that pretty quick. I had the Statesman a while back and really liked it, kind of a split between the 1910 and 1920.

Happen to recall the proof on the statesman. Like both 1910 and 1920 (1915 sounds like a great idea), but if I can buy it already 'premade' and it's not too high proof I'll have to try a bottle.

95 proof I believe

1910 is 93 proof. I would love a higher proof version of 1910. It is very sweet compared to some of the other Old Foresters, so the added proof mixing with the 115 proof 1920 is nice. A 50-50 blend puts the proof at 104. I also tried 60-40 blends both ways. I blinded the three blends against each other and liked the 50-50 mix the best. YMMV

Sonofabitch, I always thought it was like an 87 proof. That's my current desert island bourbon, didn't realize it was 93, explains a lot

 

[Galileo]

Just got a text yesterday from one of my local stores that they finally got a delivery of Stagg in for the first time this year, and my buddy set one aside for me. I think it's batch 24B, but will confirm when I get my hands on it (hopefully tomorrow).

They also just got in a new barrel pick of Old Forester Barrel Strength Bourbon, so going to have to grab that one as well.

I love Old Forester. I haven't seen this particular bottle, but I know I've seen 3 types: the "el cheapo", which is fine... a "middle" variety.... and a more expensive bottle.

The "middle" version is my favorite. I think it's name is a year or something... 1830-something maybe?

The Old Forester bourbons with years for the name is what they call their Whiskey Row Series... 1870, 1897, 1910, 1920, and 1924. Each of the years is to acknowledge some bit of distillery or whiskey history. 1870 - Distillery beginning; 1897 - Bottled in Bond Act; 1910 - Fire at distillery bottling line forced them to store mature whiskey in secondary barrels (double oaked); 1920 - Prohibition; 1924 - Old Forester was able to operate during prohibition under a medical license. In 1924, as many other distilleries closed their doors, Old Forester acquired many barrels of whiskey from them and bottled it under their brand. The 1924 is the most recent and most expensive of that Whiskey Row lineup.

Thanks for the detail. I'm not sure which one(s) I've had but it was one of their less-expensive (but not the cheapest) that I really liked. Gotta find me a bottle of that soon... I've been slummin' it with Jim Beam.

1910 is my favorite Old Forester every day drinker. Think it's 87 proof, the 1920 is the 115 proof. You can get sidewise with that pretty quick. I had the Statesman a while back and really liked it, kind of a split between the 1910 and 1920.

Happen to recall the proof on the statesman. Like both 1910 and 1920 (1915 sounds like a great idea), but if I can buy it already 'premade' and it's not too high proof I'll have to try a bottle.

95 proof I believe

1910 is 93 proof. I would love a higher proof version of 1910. It is very sweet compared to some of the other Old Foresters, so the added proof mixing with the 115 proof 1920 is nice. A 50-50 blend puts the proof at 104. I also tried 60-40 blends both ways. I blinded the three blends against each other and liked the 50-50 mix the best. YMMV

Sonofabitch, I always thought it was like an 87 proof. That's my current desert island bourbon, didn't realize it was 93, explains a lot

Old Forester does have an 86 proof bourbon, but it is not part of the Whiskey Row series.

 

[Rig24]

Got a bottle of OF Rye SBBS form a local store, highly recommended.

 

[MrJimiT]

I know we talk here more than just bourbon...so...I tried my first American Single Malt Whiskey this past weekend. Westward Single Malt Cask Strength. It gets better each time I have a pour and I am now up to 3 on a fresh bottle. IF you are curious, give this one a try/sample. It is so good with a great finish. Highly recommended - even to us Bourbon aficionados!!

 

[wlwiles]

Just got a text yesterday from one of my local stores that they finally got a delivery of Stagg in for the first time this year, and my buddy set one aside for me. I think it's batch 24B, but will confirm when I get my hands on it (hopefully tomorrow).

They also just got in a new barrel pick of Old Forester Barrel Strength Bourbon, so going to have to grab that one as well.

Swung by Friday to pick up that Stagg. Turns out it was Batch 23C. They got one case of 6 bottles in, but apparently it was half 24B and half 23C. Assuming the distributor mix-matched some cases for some reason?

Anybody here tried Stagg batch 23C? A quick google search looks like it was either hated or loved, pretty divisive batch... It's also the lowest proof (125.9) batch to date. I paid $109 for it, which yes, I know is almost double MSRP. But in my neck of the woods it's the first time I've seen it available for less than $300 in a couple of years.

Also picked up a 2024 Makers Mark Cellar Aged the same day from a different store. I'm not really a Maker's/wheater fan, so I'm trying to work a trade with a buddy for a Michter's 10 Rye for it.

 

[AAABatteries]

Got a bottle of OF Rye SBBS form a local store, highly recommended.

Current favorite of mine - seems like it's going to be findable going forward which makes me very happy.

 

[AAABatteries]

I know we talk here more than just bourbon...so...I tried my first American Single Malt Whiskey this past weekend. Westward Single Malt Cask Strength. It gets better each time I have a pour and I am now up to 3 on a fresh bottle. IF you are curious, give this one a try/sample. It is so good with a great finish. Highly recommended - even to us Bourbon aficionados!!

This is a bottle that has always intrigued me. Can you give some notes? I may pull the trigger one day either way but not sure it will be a fit for my palate.

 

[bcat01]

Here is the Ohio Autumn Bottle Lottery list -

• George T. Stagg (750 ML) - $149.98
• Thomas H. Handy (750 ML) - $149.98
• William Larue Weller (750 ML) - $149.98
• Eagle Rare 17 Year-old (750 ML) - $149.98
• Sazerac Rye 18 Year-old (750 ML) - $149.98
• Old Rip Van Winkle 10 Year (750 ML) - $129.99
• Van Winkle Special Reserve 12 Year (750 ML) - $149.98
• Van Winkle Family Reserve Rye 13 Year (750 ML) - $199.98
• Pappy Van Winkles Family Reserve 15 Year (750 ML) - $199.98
• Pappy Van Winkles Family Reserve 20 Year (750 ML) - $319.98
• Pappy Van Winkles Family Reserve 23 Year (750 ML) - $449.97

 

[Kev4029]

Just got a text yesterday from one of my local stores that they finally got a delivery of Stagg in for the first time this year, and my buddy set one aside for me. I think it's batch 24B, but will confirm when I get my hands on it (hopefully tomorrow).

They also just got in a new barrel pick of Old Forester Barrel Strength Bourbon, so going to have to grab that one as well.

I love Old Forester. I haven't seen this particular bottle, but I know I've seen 3 types: the "el cheapo", which is fine... a "middle" variety.... and a more expensive bottle.

The "middle" version is my favorite. I think it's name is a year or something... 1830-something maybe?

The Old Forester bourbons with years for the name is what they call their Whiskey Row Series... 1870, 1897, 1910, 1920, and 1924. Each of the years is to acknowledge some bit of distillery or whiskey history. 1870 - Distillery beginning; 1897 - Bottled in Bond Act; 1910 - Fire at distillery bottling line forced them to store mature whiskey in secondary barrels (double oaked); 1920 - Prohibition; 1924 - Old Forester was able to operate during prohibition under a medical license. In 1924, as many other distilleries closed their doors, Old Forester acquired many barrels of whiskey from them and bottled it under their brand. The 1924 is the most recent and most expensive of that Whiskey Row lineup.

Thanks for the detail. I'm not sure which one(s) I've had but it was one of their less-expensive (but not the cheapest) that I really liked. Gotta find me a bottle of that soon... I've been slummin' it with Jim Beam.

1910 is my favorite Old Forester every day drinker. Think it's 87 proof, the 1920 is the 115 proof. You can get sidewise with that pretty quick. I had the Statesman a while back and really liked it, kind of a split between the 1910 and 1920.

Happen to recall the proof on the statesman. Like both 1910 and 1920 (1915 sounds like a great idea), but if I can buy it already 'premade' and it's not too high proof I'll have to try a bottle.

95 proof I believe

1910 is 93 proof. I would love a higher proof version of 1910. It is very sweet compared to some of the other Old Foresters, so the added proof mixing with the 115 proof 1920 is nice. A 50-50 blend puts the proof at 104. I also tried 60-40 blends both ways. I blinded the three blends against each other and liked the 50-50 mix the best. YMMV

I love 1910, as well as Woodford Double Oaked (90 Proof) but I really wish they were more like 100 proof. I'll have to give the 1920-1910 blend a try.

 

[jimjack]

Hello all... Can anybody refer me to online site that is legit and reliable to buy Blantons and Blantons Gold ? I see there are dozens and dozens of sites that populate in search as well as prices all over the place and I suspect some of these sites are scam sites fraud and not safe. I realize Blantons hard to get and Gold even more so but figure I would ask if any online (with shipping) that I can safely pursue some bottles. Or is all this just wishfull thinking? Thanks

 

[MrJimiT]

I know we talk here more than just bourbon...so...I tried my first American Single Malt Whiskey this past weekend. Westward Single Malt Cask Strength. It gets better each time I have a pour and I am now up to 3 on a fresh bottle. IF you are curious, give this one a try/sample. It is so good with a great finish. Highly recommended - even to us Bourbon aficionados!!

This is a bottle that has always intrigued me. Can you give some notes? I may pull the trigger one day either way but not sure it will be a fit for my palate.

I'll do my best. The tasting notes on the bottle are pretty spot on, but I would love to try it again tonight just to figure out my own. "Melding together fruit, citrus punch, honey, graham cracker, sesame, tobacco leaf..." I have to admit, I was a bit skeptical myself. But I keep a running note page on my phone as I hear or read about other Bourbon YT's that really dig certain bottles. This was one of them that I believe got the recommendation from Kurt @ SLB Drinks. I pulled the trigger on the $95 purchase on a whim. But I am very pleased with the purchase so far. There is a VERY long stone fruit or grapefruit type of finish, which I find wonderful.

 

[berndog]

I’ve had a nice string of luck winning bottles in a local FB auction group. Blantons, Taylor BiB, RR store pick and RR15

Anyone else in a group that does this?

 

[wlwiles]

I’ve had a nice string of luck winning bottles in a local FB auction group. Blantons, Taylor BiB, RR store pick and RR15

Anyone else in a group that does this?

I'm in a group but mostly just watch. Most of the time they have 15 spots per contest, and I don't like those odds (especially when it's $40-70 per spot). Every now and then they'll do ~$20/spot and 10 spots for a Stagg or OWA or something, and I'll jump in, but haven't won anything yet.

 

[Galileo]

I’ve had a nice string of luck winning bottles in a local FB auction group. Blantons, Taylor BiB, RR store pick and RR15

Anyone else in a group that does this?

I'm in a group but mostly just watch. Most of the time they have 15 spots per contest, and I don't like those odds (especially when it's $40-70 per spot). Every now and then they'll do ~$20/spot and 10 spots for a Stagg or OWA or something, and I'll jump in, but haven't won anything yet.

By the time you lose 10 of those, you'd have been better off just paying secondary prices and securing the bottle you want.

 

[Galileo]

Hello all... Can anybody refer me to online site that is legit and reliable to buy Blantons and Blantons Gold ? I see there are dozens and dozens of sites that populate in search as well as prices all over the place and I suspect some of these sites are scam sites fraud and not safe. I realize Blantons hard to get and Gold even more so but figure I would ask if any online (with shipping) that I can safely pursue some bottles. Or is all this just wishfull thinking? Thanks

There are several reputable online sites. The downside is price mark ups and shipping costs. But even if you are willing to pay the extra costs, which can be significant for Blanton's, those bottles are usually out of stock. Here are a couple of online places I have had good experiences with (although I have never purchased Blanton's from them)...

Shared Pour
Bourbon Outfitters

It looks like Blanton is dropping in Ohio again this week if you are anywhere near OH.

 

[Rig24]

Just got a text yesterday from one of my local stores that they finally got a delivery of Stagg in for the first time this year, and my buddy set one aside for me. I think it's batch 24B, but will confirm when I get my hands on it (hopefully tomorrow).

They also just got in a new barrel pick of Old Forester Barrel Strength Bourbon, so going to have to grab that one as well.

Swung by Friday to pick up that Stagg. Turns out it was Batch 23C. They got one case of 6 bottles in, but apparently it was half 24B and half 23C. Assuming the distributor mix-matched some cases for some reason?

Anybody here tried Stagg batch 23C? A quick google search looks like it was either hated or loved, pretty divisive batch... It's also the lowest proof (125.9) batch to date. I paid $109 for it, which yes, I know is almost double MSRP. But in my neck of the woods it's the first time I've seen it available for less than $300 in a couple of years.

Also picked up a 2024 Makers Mark Cellar Aged the same day from a different store. I'm not really a Maker's/wheater fan, so I'm trying to work a trade with a buddy for a Michter's 10 Rye for it.

Im more in the middle for 24C, I like it but its not my favorite Stagg. From recent batches, I'd put it in front of 18 and 24B. But I wouldn't pass on it either, lol. 109 isn't a terrible price for it.

 

[berndog]

I’ve had a nice string of luck winning bottles in a local FB auction group. Blantons, Taylor BiB, RR store pick and RR15

Anyone else in a group that does this?

I'm in a group but mostly just watch. Most of the time they have 15 spots per contest, and I don't like those odds (especially when it's $40-70 per spot). Every now and then they'll do ~$20/spot and 10 spots for a Stagg or OWA or something, and I'll jump in, but haven't won anything yet.

By the time you lose 10 of those, you'd have been better off just paying secondary prices and securing the bottle you want.

My experience has been different. I spent $95 in September and October and walked away with EHT and Blantons.
This a local group with everything priced reasonably and only 10 spots available.

 

[Joe Bryant]

I know we talk here more than just bourbon...so...I tried my first American Single Malt Whiskey this past weekend. Westward Single Malt Cask Strength. It gets better each time I have a pour and I am now up to 3 on a fresh bottle. IF you are curious, give this one a try/sample. It is so good with a great finish. Highly recommended - even to us Bourbon aficionados!!

Thanks. What's your preferred way to drink it?

 

[Joe Bryant]

@MrJimiT does this align with your experience? https://www.whiskeyinmyweddingring.com/reviews/westward-cask-strength-american-single-malt-whiskey

 

[MrJimiT]

I know we talk here more than just bourbon...so...I tried my first American Single Malt Whiskey this past weekend. Westward Single Malt Cask Strength. It gets better each time I have a pour and I am now up to 3 on a fresh bottle. IF you are curious, give this one a try/sample. It is so good with a great finish. Highly recommended - even to us Bourbon aficionados!!

Thanks. What's your preferred way to drink it?

I prefer to drink all of my whiskey's neat.

 

[MrJimiT]

@MrJimiT does this align with your experience? https://www.whiskeyinmyweddingring.com/reviews/westward-cask-strength-american-single-malt-whiskey

Very interesting review. I was interested in how the author rated and experienced the Westward Single Malt Cask Strength in comparison to how I would rate it. I might like this slightly better than Blanton's and/or the Antique 107 (I have both and love both). My true difference with this reviewer is that I feel like it has a bit of a tropical/fruity vibe WITHOUT being sweet or too fruity. Tough for me to explain. I am certainly a seasoned bourbon or rye or wheat whiskey drinker. But Scotch is a new adventure for me. While I realize American Single Malt is not Scotch, they do have their similarities.

I very much like this offering. Thanks Joe for the linked article.

 

[wlwiles]

I’ve had a nice string of luck winning bottles in a local FB auction group. Blantons, Taylor BiB, RR store pick and RR15

Anyone else in a group that does this?

Just won an EHT Barrel Proof (Batch 12) yesterday for my first FB raffle win...maybe my luck is turning...

 

[Rig24]

I’ve had a nice string of luck winning bottles in a local FB auction group. Blantons, Taylor BiB, RR store pick and RR15

Anyone else in a group that does this?

Just won an EHT Barrel Proof (Batch 12) yesterday for my first FB raffle win...maybe my luck is turning...

Thats a great bottle, congradulations!

 

[Galileo]

I’ve had a nice string of luck winning bottles in a local FB auction group. Blantons, Taylor BiB, RR store pick and RR15

Anyone else in a group that does this?

Just won an EHT Barrel Proof (Batch 12) yesterday for my first FB raffle win...maybe my luck is turning...

One of my favorites! Enjoy!

 

[wlwiles]

Anybody seen or tried the new Penelope Estate Collection that just released recently? Saw one store near me that has the Private Select on the shelf, but haven't seen the Single Barrel or the Founder's Reserve yet.

 

[Galileo]

Anybody seen or tried the new Penelope Estate Collection that just released recently? Saw one store near me that has the Private Select on the shelf, but haven't seen the Single Barrel or the Founder's Reserve yet.

Penelope confuses me sometimes. I have a 9 year Barrel Strength Private Select but it does not say Estate Collection on it. I assume it is from before their current "Estate Collection" Releases which I have not seen in stores. I thought those were released through a lottery system. Anyway, whatever I have doesn't really show up on their web site as I only see Private Select listed in their Estate Collection series. Whatever I have is pretty good. I like it a lot.

 

[Dan Lambskin]

Just got a text yesterday from one of my local stores that they finally got a delivery of Stagg in for the first time this year, and my buddy set one aside for me. I think it's batch 24B, but will confirm when I get my hands on it (hopefully tomorrow).

They also just got in a new barrel pick of Old Forester Barrel Strength Bourbon, so going to have to grab that one as well.

I love Old Forester. I haven't seen this particular bottle, but I know I've seen 3 types: the "el cheapo", which is fine... a "middle" variety.... and a more expensive bottle.

The "middle" version is my favorite. I think it's name is a year or something... 1830-something maybe?

The Old Forester bourbons with years for the name is what they call their Whiskey Row Series... 1870, 1897, 1910, 1920, and 1924. Each of the years is to acknowledge some bit of distillery or whiskey history. 1870 - Distillery beginning; 1897 - Bottled in Bond Act; 1910 - Fire at distillery bottling line forced them to store mature whiskey in secondary barrels (double oaked); 1920 - Prohibition; 1924 - Old Forester was able to operate during prohibition under a medical license. In 1924, as many other distilleries closed their doors, Old Forester acquired many barrels of whiskey from them and bottled it under their brand. The 1924 is the most recent and most expensive of that Whiskey Row lineup.

I just did a prohibition cocktail tasting, they used the 1920 for bourbon based drinks

 

[Charlie Steiner]

Tonight's stop on my journey: Maryland Epoch Cask Strength Straight Rye Whiskey (112 proof, non-cill filtered, $50, Total Wine)

First thoughts: Baltimore Spirits Company pre-dates Sagamore for distilling whiskey in Baltimore, as Sagamore started with MGP product before just recently getting up to speed with home-grown grains. I recently tried their 100-proof straight rye and liked it enough, so I made a mental note to try the cask strength when the opportunity presented itself. Today, I had that opportunity, and it appears I was just in time; one of the staff informed me that they were no longer carrying this particular bottle, and I had grabbed the last one on the shelf. At first, I was concerned that they were going out of business, but it just turns out that they just weren't releasing a cask strength offering any more, or at least for now. Otherwise, they're still quite open for business.

First sniff: From the bottle, I got the cool, nearly mint smell synonymous with rye, as well as the almost chocolate note from their 100 proof. As it opened in the glass, the telltale 'baking spice' smell appeared as well.

First taste: Cool at first, then the proof made its presence known, followed by the 'Kentucky hug' that didn't burn all the way down. After the heat, the first note was dark chocolate that dominated all the way through.

Second sniff: More 'baking spice' and sweeter/softer on the nose than the first.

Second taste: Got some brown sugar/caramel just ahead of the heat that again gave way to dark chocolate and caramel on the finish.

Knee-jerk reaction: Unlike their 100-proof, this reminds me of Wild Turkey 101 not at all. Though I'm getting apparently less complexity on this than their other label, I definitely like this one more because the flavors that are there seem stronger/richer than the notes on the other one. It's kind of similar to other ryes I've had and at the same time more distinct. Going to nurse this one.