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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Green River Distilling Company partners with the US Army to create a special 250th anniversary bourbon bottled at a meaningful 111.1 proof to commemorate Veterans Day. The collaborative project reflects Green River's long history of supporting veterans dating back to the distillery's founding by J.W. McCulloch, who gained favor with veterans that helped secure an 18-year contract as the sole spirits provider for US Marine Hospitals.

• Official licensed product of the United States Army required navigating complex approval processes
• Project revitalized through personal connection between Green River leadership and the Sergeant Major of the Army
• Small batch blend of four to six-year-old barrels with notes of warm vanilla, leather, cinnamon, and cherry
• Special product launch featured former Golden Knights parachuting bottles from 5,000 feet at Fort Bragg
• Initial production of 10,000 six-packs quickly sold out across distribution channels
• Priced at $49.99, making it accessible while honoring military service
• Green River continues expanding with future innovations including a four-grain bourbon currently aging
• Team-based approach to distilling reflects military values of teamwork and excellence

Remember to drink responsibly. Never drink and drive and live your life uncut and unfiltered.

A toast to those who serve! Green River Distilling Company's Master Distiller Aaron Harris & CEO Colonel (Ret) Mark Erwin of lofted Spirits joins the Scotchy Bourbon Boys to share the extraordinary story behind their special US Army 250th Anniversary bourbon. This isn't just another limited release – it's a heartfelt tribute that celebrates America's oldest military branch through meticulous craftsmanship and meaningful symbolism.

The bourbon's journey from concept to bottle showcases the nimble innovation possible at Green River, where military connections run deep. Harris reveals how the Sergeant Major of the Army personally revived the project after initial legal challenges, and details the painstaking process of creating an official licensed Army product. The partnership extends Green River's long legacy of supporting veterans, dating back to founder J.W. McCulloch's generous whiskey donations at veterans' memorials that helped secure an 18-year government contract.

Bottled at a purposeful 111.1 proof to honor Veterans Day (11/11), this small batch blend features four to six-year-old barrels selected for their warm vanilla, leather, and cinnamon notes, with distinctive cherry undertones. The hosts conduct a thorough tasting that confirms this bourbon delivers exceptional quality, earning near-perfect scores for its rich complexity and buttery mouthfeel. But perhaps most memorable is the dramatic product launch – Erwin describes the unforgettable day when former Army Golden Knights parachuted bottles from 5,000 feet at Fort Bragg before sharing authentic toasts among veterans.

What began as a projected 2,000-case release quickly expanded to 10,000 six-packs that flew off shelves nationwide. Priced accessibly at $49.99, this commemorative bottle offers bourbon enthusiasts and military supporters alike the chance to honor service while enjoying premium Kentucky whiskey. Subscribe now to join the Scotchy Bourbon Boys for more exclusive distillery insights and passionate bourbon appreciation!

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We explore Milk & Honey (M&H) Israeli whiskey, a groundbreaking single malt aged at the lowest place on Earth. The Dead Sea location creates extreme maturation conditions, with temperatures reaching 124°F and extraordinary atmospheric pressure resulting in a complex whiskey despite its young age.

• First whiskey ever aged in the Dead Sea region, 1,400 feet below sea level
• Loses 25% to the angels each year (75% over its three-year aging period)
• Made from 100% malted barley at 111 proof (55.5% ABV)
• Aged in bourbon barrels and STR (shaved, toasted, re-charred) red wine casks
• Features chocolate and burnt marshmallow on the nose with notes of pineapple on the finish
• Part of M&H's Apex Terroir series exploring how location affects whiskey development
• Inspired by the late Dr. Jim Swan's vision of Israel as a "playground for innovation"
• Demonstrates how extreme conditions can accelerate maturation and create unique flavor profiles

Remember to check out www.scotchybourbonboys.com for merchandise including t-shirts and Glencairn glasses. Follow us on Facebook, YouTube, Instagram, X, Apple, iHeart, and Spotify – like, comment, subscribe, and leave good feedback to help others discover our content.

Journey with us to the lowest place on Earth as we explore the remarkable M&H Dead Sea whiskey from Israel's first whiskey distillery. This groundbreaking single malt defies conventional aging wisdom by maturing in the extraordinary conditions of the Dead Sea region – 1,400 feet below sea level where temperatures soar to 124°F and atmospheric pressure creates a whiskey environment unlike anywhere else in the world.

The Whiskey Doctor joins us for this special Whiskey Without Borders episode to unpack what makes this Israeli innovation so fascinating. We discover how extreme maturation conditions create an astonishing 25% angel's share per year, meaning 75% of this whiskey evaporates during its three-year aging process. The result? A surprisingly complex whiskey that delivers far beyond its young age.

As we taste through this 111-proof expression, we uncover a remarkable sensory journey – from chocolate and burnt marshmallow aromas to hints of campfire smoke and unexpected tropical fruit notes. The whiskey offers what our hosts describe as "the hug" – that warming sensation that travels through your chest with a proper sip of quality spirits.

This episode delves deep into whiskey terroir – how specific locations shape a whiskey's character through climate, elevation, and atmospheric conditions. M&H's Apex Terroir series represents the cutting edge of whiskey innovation, demonstrating that excellence doesn't require centuries of tradition, just vision and a willingness to push boundaries.

Whether you're a bourbon devotee curious about global whiskey expressions or a single malt enthusiast looking to expand your horizons, this episode offers fascinating insights into how Israeli whiskey is carving its unique place in the spirits world. Subscribe, leave a review, and join us as we continue exploring exceptional whiskeys from unexpected places around the globe.

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