Canadian Whisky, More than Just Crown Royal

Canadian Whisky - Photo Credit Chilled Magazine

This week, after a brief hiatus, the Whiskey Roundup is back! For the first roundup after it's return, I chose Canadian Whisky as the featured whiskey. It turns out, Canadian Whisky has more to offer than just Crown Royal. I was actually surprised at how much I didn't know about Canadian Whisky offerings. I have not had most of these.

How great is that this is know as "Canadian Blanton's?" Blanton's is one of those that is so hotly debated, I try to stay away from it. Anyway, good to know that there is an alternative.

Latest scoresheet, this time for Caribou Crossing, the alleged "Canadian Blanton's."

Full review: https://t.co/yMvUScxNnj#cariboucrossing #canadianwhiskey #sazerac #scoresheet #review pic.twitter.com/ltI3pZLrUA

— The Whiskey Ramble (@RambleWhiskey) March 23, 2021

Aside from what's inside the bottle, I have to admire the design behind the bottle too. I can take some time to find the perfect bottle befitting the carefully crafted liquid gold that will be inside of it.  

The main label of our Benjamin Chapman Whiskey is inspired by classic 1960’s fashion, showing subtle lines as a fashionable tweed suit of that era might have adorned.#3badge #3badgemixology #benjaminchapman #benjaminchapmanwhiskey #whiskey #bc #ryewhiskey #rye #canadianwhiskey pic.twitter.com/wOANNib2n7

— 3 Badge Beverage (@3badgecorp) March 10, 2021

I had to include at least one Crown Royal product in here. Truth be told, I do have two bottles of Crown in my collection. This is not one of them though. I know people who go ape shit for this stuff and buy it by the case. Maybe one of these days I'll get around to trying it out.  

#CrownRoyalPeachWhiskey 🍑 is now in stock at both Tower locations! Bottles are limited to 4 per person. Grab some delicious #CanadianWhiskey while supplies last! 🥃 pic.twitter.com/ZmucPoeWw8

— Tower Beer, Wine & Spirits (@TowerATL) February 22, 2021

This is another one that I have heard of, but never tried. I always thought of it as a mixer, and since I don't do a lot of mixed drinks with whiskey, I never paid much attention to it. I'm reconsidering that view now though.  

Happy new year!😀This is good stuff!!#canadianwhiskey pic.twitter.com/gdQdYsBqh9

— ron paterson (@sxyron) January 1, 2021

Redemption Bourbon Straight Bourbon Whiskey Pre-Prohibition Revival Whiskey

Redemption Bourbon Straight
Bourbon Whiskey

I was given this bottle for my birthday. My friends wanted to give me a bottle I had never tried before. They gave me a couple different ones to try, and sure enough they succeeded with giving me a bottle I had never had in the Redemption Bourbon Straight Bourbon Whiskey Pre-Prohibition Revival Whiskey.

When I tried it, I was instantly hooked, and this whiskey has ended up in my glass quite a few times since then. It's that good. Looking through Redemption Whiskey's website, I found that they offer a few other varieties. A wheated bourbon, which I always a fan of, and a couple of different rye whiskies, which I am also partial to. I'll be searching for these two varieties to round out the shelf.

About The Whiskey

Redemption Bourbon is bottled by Redemption Barrell Selections in Lawrenceburg, TN. The whiskey is aged in new charred oak barrels for no less than two years and is bottled at 42% ABV / 84 Proof.

This bottle is from Batch No 29.

Redemption Bourbon has a mash bill of 75% corn, 21% rye, and 4% barley.

Tasting Notes

Redemption Bourbon is amber in color. In the glass, the bourbon has quick, short fingers that run down glass almost as fast as they form.

On the nose, I found notes of oak and vanilla, and slight hint of ethanol.

I enjoyed the taste and flavor of this bourbon. The oak and vanilla notes carry over from the nose. There is a sweetness to this bourbon, likely from the high corn content in the mash bill. After the sweetness subsided, there was a touch of spice from the rye. The mouthfeel is buttery and balanced.

The finish of this bourbon is very smooth and even, not fast or slow. There is some that hits you on the end, along with some more spice from that rye in the mash bill. 

Ginger and Lime Cocktail

There are certain flavors that go together so well, they were meant to go together. Whiskey and ginger and ginger and lime. So knowing that those flavors compliment each other, I wanted to craft a cocktail around them. This is nothing cutting edge, much less original, but it is a simple cocktail designed to sip and enjoy. 

Ginger and Lime Cocktail

The Tools

• Old Fashioned Glass or Cocktail Glass
• Jigger
• Bar Spoon

The Ingredients

• 2 oz of Bourbon
• 1 tsp Lime Juice or Lime Wedge
• Ginger Ale or Ginger Beer
• Ice

The Method

Add the ice to the cocktail glass. I used a large square mold to get 2 inch cubes for mine. It just takes one. Add the lime juice, bourbon, I used Buffalo Trace, and ginger ale to the glass. The amount of ginger all will depend on three things, the amount of ice, the size of the glass, and personal taste. Stir to combine and enjoy.

That's it. A simple cocktail with a simple recipe and a few simple ingredients that comes together super quickly so you can sit down and enjoy it sooner. 

If I make this again, which I will, I might try to add a few dashes of bitters to the mix. This time, I used ginger ale, but also might try it with the ginger beer to give it more bite.

Slainte!

Whiskey Roundup - Texas Whiskey

The great state of Texas has a lot to offer, and the least of which is whiskey. I have had the opportunity to sample some great Texas whiskeys and plan to sample even more before I am done. Today, I am

Whiskey Roundup Texas Whiskey

bringing you my favorite Texas Whiskey tweets.

The folks at Balcones have made some excellent whiskeys over the years. I'm partial to Balcones Baby Blue, made with Texas blue corn. So to see a whiskey made using the to one of my favorite Texas beers, I am undoubtedly excited!

I recently tried Balcones Texas Bock, a whiskey using the Shiner Bock beer recipe, and I loved it so much that maybe I will move to Texas after all. https://t.co/1H9SCiDxMr

— Karol Markowicz (@karol) September 5, 2020

For some reason, I never thought of whiskey as a day drinker, just a daily drinker. Now, seeing a bourbon actually named "Day Drinker" changes my whole perspective on how I look at it.

The new Treaty Oak The Day Drinker Texas Bourbon, bottled at 80 proof, is envisioned as a more casual day drinking whiskey versus the distillery's 95 proof flagship bourbon offering. https://t.co/42usvY2GT5

— Whiskey Wash (@WhiskeyWash) September 1, 2020

I like to see whiskey distilleries try something new and use different or experimental grains. I wouldn't call a whiskey using 100% Texas grains experimental, but it is certainly different. This is definitely going on the list of whiskeys to hunt down and try. 

Still Austin Whiskey Co. Releases Straight Bourbon Whiskey Featuring 100% Texas Grains https://t.co/mffPR5pcPr 1 #whiskey pic.twitter.com/hdIZmZX4H7

— Whisk(e)y Chap 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿🥃 (@whiskeychap) September 4, 2020

When it comes to great Texas Whiskeys, Garrison Bros should be on your list. I have never had anything from them that was disappointing. Keep an eye out for this one if you have not tried it already. 

Another joyful Texas whiskey comes from @garrisonbros #whiskey #bourbon #whisky https://t.co/atkLPdrXT0

— Whisky Monster 🥃 (@WhiskyMonster_) September 4, 2020

Whiskey Roundup - Peated Whiskey

This week, the Whiskey Roundup is all about peated whiskey. I took to Twitter to find my favorite articles about peated whiskey, and was surprised how few I found that were recent, that is to say in the last few months. Let's dive in and explore!

Peated Whiskey

I can't speak for the hagis, but this does sound delicious. Some nights, a good peated whiskey is all you need to finish it off proper. 

#Peated @GlenScotiaMalts and #Haggis:

A MARRIAGE MADE IN HEAVEN 😍#HaggisOverDose #Stonehaven #BurnsNight2019 pic.twitter.com/vncx2eWwgZ

— Ibon Mendiguren (@Ibon_Mendiguren) January 26, 2019

Two of my favorite Scotch whiskys are the Laphroaig 10 and the Laphroaig 15. I have heard tales of the quarter cask, but have never seen it in the wild, much less tasted it. This solidifies my need to find a bottle and bring it home as mine. 

Today has been a great day for whisky, first had a very enjoyable chat with the @CircusWhisky crew and now just about to crack this @Laphroaig with @newdramdrinker & the #CertifiedOriginals #whisky #SundaySup #Peated pic.twitter.com/G9CXQZRJqv

— Whisky And Warhammer (@DramofWar) August 9, 2020

I've only ever had a sample of the Glen Moray Scotch, but I assure you it was delicious. It is one of the bottles where some day I will have the means and I will someday bring it home. 

Bought a bottle of @GlenMorayDist #Peated #Whisky for a friends 60th #Birthday Im sure she will enjoy #Scotch #Elgin #GlenMoray pic.twitter.com/ouNfxB8AZw

— Moray Firth Tours (@MorayTours) October 7, 2017

The Glen Dronach is one of  my favorite scotch whiskys. Sherry finished casks are some of the smoothest I have found out there. So, now knowing that is a peated bottle of The Glen Dronach out there, the hunt is on.

Thank you @Celticwhiskey for excellent customer service and getting this shipped out to me double quick!#glendronach #peated #scotch #whisky pic.twitter.com/JOCPKqnphX

— Causewaycoastwhiskeyreviews (@Causewaywhiskey) March 22, 2018

A couple of things about this caught my eye. I had no idea that there were peated English whiskeys out there. That alone is enough to make me want to try it. But then also that someone had the chance to pick a barrel and then have the bottle delivered makes it all the more exciting.  

Can’t beat the feeling of having a whisky you chose and bottled yourself sat on your desk! #whisky #englishwhisky #peated #norfolk #harveynichols #singlemalt #LimitedEdition #singlecask pic.twitter.com/XWZHyQxQwL

— Nick (@NRGBell) January 9, 2020

Whiskey Roundup - Old Fashioned

The Old Fashioned saw a recent rise in popularity thanks to shows like Mad Men. It was a tradition of mine to watch the show every week and enjoy an Old Fashioned with friends. This week, the Whiskey

Whiskey Roundup - Old Fashioned

Roundup is all about the Old Fashioned.

It's true that an Old Fashioned never really goes out of style. It's simple and elegant and doesn't require a special occasion to enjoy. This is the most simple recipe. 

An Old-fashioned really never goes out of fashion. #Angosturabitters #houseofangosturanigeria#Oldfashioned#cocktails #recipe pic.twitter.com/Wj09TdaV6z

— Angostura House NG (@AngosturaNG) July 14, 2020

Since it's recent rise in popularity, bars have been putting their own spin on drink. Typically they'll use infused whiskies or syrups. Maple and cherry seem to be the most popular flavors I've come across, but I have also seen smoked Old Fashioneds and a variety of bitters being used like chocolate and  Peychaud's.

There are many ways to make an old fashioned, but this is my go to so far!
- 2 oz bourbon
- barspoon of maple syrup 🇨🇦
- 2 dashes of bitters
- stir and pour
- garnish with orange or lemon or both lol#oldfashioned pic.twitter.com/sGIDJ55PAB

— PorknCheese (@PorknCheese_) July 18, 2020

The first printed mention of the phrase "old fashioned cocktail" was in February 1880 int he Chicago Tribune. So I think black and white photography works well for the drink. Plus, it looks super classy. 

Black and white is SO #oldfashioned pic.twitter.com/ZWjbG54gQA

— Dylan Cole (@ThaRoyWonder) July 17, 2020

I never thought about using Wild Turkey 101 to make an Old Fashioned. I always thought the whiskey would be strong for the drink. But now that I see it, I'm thinking maybe stronger whiskey makes for bigger flavor. 

Who will you share your Wild Turkey with? It’s a big decision.#bourbon #wildturkeybourbon #kentuckybourbon #OldFashioned #cocktails #whiskey #cocktail #whiskeywednesday #orange #bitters #friendship 🥃 🥃 🦃 🇺🇲 pic.twitter.com/ivVt1QIUnL

— Wild Turkey Bourbon Whiskey UK (@WildTurkeyUK) July 15, 2020

Whiskey Roundup - Cocktails

I love cocktails, like this one made with Johnnie Walker. This week, the Whiskey Roundup is all about cocktails! I decided to go a little outside of the whiskey box and include cocktails that aren't technically a whiskey cocktail.

I've been making a lot of Bloody Mary's lately. I typically will use a store bought mix, but I have wanted to try my hand at making my own for a while. This should at least give a jumping of point to get started with making a mix at home.

3 parts vodka
6 parts tomato juice
5 drops of Tabasco sauce (hot)
Lemon juice
Olives, pickles or a celery stick for decoration
Salt and pepper to taste
Ice

Mix the ingredients in a cocktail glass and decorate as desired.#bloodymary #cocktail pic.twitter.com/AxUcHhhPh8

— Drinks&Co United Kingdom (@drinksco_UK) July 11, 2020

It's been a while since I had a good whiskey sour. Most sour mixes are crap, so making them at home or getting one at a bar is usually out of the question. Unless the bar takes the time to make their own mix, it's a non-starter. I don't know why I never thought of it being just a few simple ingredients.   

Its Sourtaday! Time for a easy & dee-lish 3 ingredients craft #bourbon sour.

🥃 BOURBON SOUR 🥃
2 ounces Xplorer Bourbon
¾ ounce fresh lemon juice
¾ ounce simple syrup

Mix bourbon, lemon juice, & simple syrup in a #cocktail shaker. Fill with ice, shake well until cold. pic.twitter.com/cXTEEAvnun

— Xplorer Spirits (@XplorerSpirits) July 11, 2020

This a different take on the whiskey sour, that honestly sounds amazing. I've always liked raspberry lemonade and adding whiskey to it sounds incredible! This would make a great summer afternoon sipper. 

#WhiskySour
Makers Mark
Lemonjuice
Raspberry syrup#howtodrink #cocktail pic.twitter.com/4LLrTw3aEj

— Nicklas Johansson (@theeriknicklas) July 10, 2020

Sometimes you have to take a simple approach. The whiskey can get lost in a cocktail full of syrups and juices, unless you mix it right. This cocktail is just two simple ingredients.  

There is a simple yet overlooked cocktail called the whiskey & soda. This classic highball is often frowned upon by whiskey snobs. Ignore them.

2.25 oz bourbon or rye
Club soda or sparkling water
Ice

In a glass with ice, add whiskey and top with club soda and stir. #cocktail pic.twitter.com/msXAeGmfYu

— Texas Whiskey Fest (@TXwhiskeyfest) July 10, 2020

Slainte! 

Whiskey Roundup - Bourbon

Late to the punch again this week. It's almost time to be thinking about next week's roundup, and here I

am just getting out the words for this week's collection. This week, I am writing about whiskey that is uniquely American, bourbon. 

I agree with Dick. The Jim Beam Repeal Batch was great. Way more drinkable than the white label, lending it to being drinkable on it's own, outside of a mixed drink. I wrote a review about the Repeal Batch a while back. 

Dug this bottle out of the back of the cabinet tonight. Forgot I even had it. Similar to the white label. Thin and not much complexity. Still not bad though. I'd drink this over white label Beam any day. #bourbon pic.twitter.com/vAr5BAgxc1

— Dick (@NordenLizard) July 1, 2020

I would love to go sit down and help with this collection! This is the kind of whiskey collection that needs friends and good conversations. There are a few standouts and I would love to sink my teeth in to that Knob Creek and the Rare Breed! 

So, who wants to come help? #bourbon pic.twitter.com/PUGPqlosEw

— TheBigMike1983 (@thebigmike1983) July 3, 2020

Sometimes I think that every night is an Old Fashioned kind of night. It's a cocktail you can settle in with and enjoy a good book or share deep conversations with. Like most, I discovered this great cocktail while watching Mad Men, and it became my weekly tradition to have friends over to watch the new episode and pour a couple of Old Fashioneds.  

It feels like an old fashioned kind of night. Cheers all out there. I hope you’ve had a great day and have an even better night. #LoveYouAll #Bourbon #OldFashioned pic.twitter.com/esG0csmiOe

— Critical Poet (@CriticalPoet) July 4, 2020

The Willet Pot Still is a bourbon that honestly gets shit on a lot. It is a very polarizing bourbon. Is it the best bourbon out there? No. Is the worst bourbon on the market? Also no. Now, I don't have it in my current collection and I don't plan on running out to get a new bottle. If I found myself in a situation where this was the only bourbon option, I wouldn't turn my nose up at it. 

Dicided to give the Willet Pot Still another try. It has improved a little since I initially opened it up months ago. Still not great though. Heavy corn and ethanol taste to it. Just doesn't fit my taste profile. #bourbon pic.twitter.com/vwqtHGH09C

— Dick (@NordenLizard) June 28, 2020

Whiskey Roundup - Scotch

This week, The Whiskey Roundup is all about Scotch. I searched Twitter with #scotch. I found a lot of great posts to share! We're going to look at  everything from scotch reviews and new releases to first scotches to sherry cask finished scotches.

Let's dive in to the Roundup!

Dewar's was the first Scotch I ever tried back in college. Back then, it was the White Label. My tastes have come a long way since then.
 

A #luxurywhisky deserves a #luxurychocolate – our @dewars 18 goes perfectly with this 70% chocolate from #VirungaNationalPark in DR Congo. The richness of the chocolate brings added refinement to the smooth almond & butterscotch of this #whisky #homeofdewars #itsdramtime pic.twitter.com/KGOtarRfbY

— Dewar's Aberfeldy Distillery (@DewarsAberfeldy) May 9, 2018

That's a fine bottle. I bought the same for a friend recently. Can't wait to sit down and share it with him. Maybe with a nice cigar too!

After dinner #relaxation #cigars #scotch #whisky #music #botl #sotl 🥃🍂💨💨 pic.twitter.com/Qxposfy2Co

— Vincent Di Virgilio (@VIPvinnyD) June 24, 2020

 New whiskey and scotch releases are exciting. It's always great to have a source to go to let you know all about the new releases that are coming out. 

https://t.co/lvzgleXB0b New and upcoming whisky releases: Ardbeg 2000 single cask, Glenmorangie Malaga Cask, Craigellachie 1995 and more... @Ardbeg @TheGlenmorangie #scotch #whisky pic.twitter.com/ypOAfR1AOM

— WhiskyNotes (Ruben) (@WhiskyNotes) June 27, 2020

I'm a big fan of tasting notes and reviews, especially when they are showcasing special cask projects and special releases!

Quick Fire Whisky Tasting Notes: @GlenMorayDist Madeira Cask Project: https://t.co/HY7us3XdfW @GlenMorayIain #scotch #whisky #review pic.twitter.com/MoK3AgJy9k

— Steve Rush 🥃 (@TheWhiskyWire) June 27, 2020

#NEW #SCOTCH! Edradour 10 Year Old 2020 UCF - CASK #117

Sherried scotches are my favorite scotch expressions. I'm always looking for a new one to try.  

The latest bottle of sherried loveliness. A firm whisky staple at TWB and favourite of our customers.

Buy online now at #TheWhiskyBarrel.com - https://t.co/0fFoyAX6YZ pic.twitter.com/NGdRZDq9TN

— The Whisky Barrel (@WhiskyBarrel) June 26, 2020

 The more I look in to the world of scotch, the more I realize that my scotch knowledge is limited. There are distilleries I've never heard of releasing bottles I've never ever dreamed. I can't wait to continue my journey through the world of scotch!

https://t.co/s9gWTjDk88 Undisclosed Orkney 2000, rather muscular and high quality. One of the latest bottlings from Le Gus't #scotch #whisky pic.twitter.com/dgWuyU30VD

— WhiskyNotes (Ruben) (@WhiskyNotes) June 26, 2020

Slainte! 

Bernheim Original Kentucky Straight Wheat Whiskey

A few months ago, I was in Dallas for a conference and brought some samples with me to enjoy in the hotel room and Bernheim Original Kentucky Straight Wheat Whiskey was one of them. Some of those samples I've written about previously. For whatever reason, I didn't get around to actually trying out Bernheim Original Kentucky Straight Wheat Whiskey until

Bernheim Original Kentucky
Straight Wheat Whiskey

now! I like wheated whiskies, so maybe I was saving the best for last. In most cases, I'm a huge believer in Hemingway's old adage, "Write drunk, edit sober," so I was inspired to at least jot down my tasting notes!

From the Heaven Hill Website

This Heaven Hill Distillery original is named for the famed Bernheim Distillery here in Louisville. 7-Year-Old Wheat Whiskey, Bernheim Original is the first new style of American Whiskey to be introduced since Prohibition. Aged for 7 years in our traditional open rickhouses, Bernheim’s mellow taste is refreshingly smooth when served straight or in cocktails.

Distillery: Bernheim Original Kentucky Straight Wheat Whiskey is distilled at Heaven Hill Distillery, Louisville, KY, USA

Proof: Bernheim Original Kentucky Straight Wheat Whiskey is bottled at 90 Proof

Age: Bernheim Original Kentucky Straight Wheat Whiskey is aged for minimum 7 years

Appearance: Bernheim Original Kentucky Straight Wheat Whiskey has a copper, with long fingers running down the glass

Nose: On the nose, Bernheim Original Kentucky Straight Wheat Whiskey has notes of vanilla, caramel, and honey

Taste: On the tongue Bernheim Original Kentucky Straight Wheat Whiskey has sweet notes of vanilla. It is smooth, with almost no spice notes to it

Finish: On the finish Bernheim Original Kentucky Straight Wheat Whiskey is smooth and lingers long,  with mild spice and light oak.

Overall, Bernheim Original Kentucky Straight Wheat Whiskey is very good and enjoyable whiskey. I need to get more than just a sample bottle to try out. I drank it neat. This is not a whiskey that you will want to mix with anything. Just sip and enjoy.

Slainte!

 

Whiskey Roundup - Father's Day 2020

Today is Father's Day, a day to honor, celebrate, and spoil the dads in our lives. I don't know a lot of dads who don't like whiskey, so Father's Day is the perfect day to kick off the new format for the Whiskey

Roundup. I'll be searching for a whiskey topic each week, and incorporating that in to the Whiskey Roundup. Some weeks, as I found with Father's Day, the topic will not have as much to cover.

That's almost freaky fast. I do love some Colorado Whiskey, so will have to give these guys a look. I wonder if it makes it's way down to Texas from those beautiful Rockies.

Speed of light...
.
.
.#291coloradowhiskey #coloradowhiskey #FathersDayWhiskey #hardmadethecoloradoway #livefastdrinkresponsibly #everythingmatters #rideitlikeyoustoleit #drinkitlikeyouownit #whiskey #ruggedrefinedrebellious #whisky #bourbon #worldwhiskeyawards #cowboywhiskey pic.twitter.com/vrEo4Ld7C4

— Distillery 291 ®️ (@distillery291) June 12, 2020

Whiskey is a great gift for dad. Order it here online for a special gift.  Even if it comes in late, I don't thank dad would mind!

Father’s Day is coming up on June 21. If Dad is a whiskey lover, you’ve found the place for the perfect gift. Award-winning Maritime Whiskeys found only here! Show Dad Some Love by ordering online. https://t.co/houJnkPfTr. #cadeedistillery #maritimewhiskey #fathersdaywhiskey pic.twitter.com/bRcMPMR9oK

— Cadée Distillery LLC (@cadeedistillery) June 1, 2020

Whiskey Roundup 06/07/20 to 06/13/30

Every Saturday I go through Twitter with #whiskey and roundup my favorite whiskey

articles! This is the Whiskey Roundup! 

This piqued my interest, but now that I'm writing this, I'm not sure how I feel about it. I'm excited to get back to normal, but I think we still need to be smart about it. Either way, I wish Motor City Gas the best.

Motor City Gas is officially back open for #cocktail service. Thursday/Friday 5–10 PM, Saturday 2-10 PM and Sunday 2-7 PM. We are still doing “to go” #whiskey flights and cocktail kits. Email MotorCityGas@Gmail.com for a full menu. pic.twitter.com/feYwY2GaCr

— MOTOR CITY GAS (whiskey distillery) (@MotorCityGas1) June 12, 2020

This is awesome! I'm a huge fan of alternative fuels/energy sources to make a better future. Now, let's see how alternative energy does with whiskey!

Cheers to a brighter future! ☀️ 🥃

173 solar modules were transformed to help us convert sunshine to whiskey in style.

🎥 - @samesunvt#WhistlePig #Farm #SolarPowered #Whiskey pic.twitter.com/4Nuf7PuX79

— WhistlePig Whiskey (@WhistlePigRye) June 10, 2020

For any traveling whiskey drinker, this is a super cool idea. I know if I were taking a tour of Ireland, this would be a must to help me map out my travels! 

Making a start on listing Irish Distilleries.. #irishwhiskey #ireland #whiskey pic.twitter.com/7c9I8UMq3j

— Whisky-Finder (@WhiskyFinder) June 12, 2020

 For budget reasons, $50 is right at the top end of what I typically pay for a bottle of whiskey. I know that leaves a lot on the table. I've been seeing Old Scout out there, but haven't made a move on it yet. Good to see it's in my range.

This bottle is fantastic. $50 and one hell of a pick in the Orlando area. Will include a sample to one of the winners today.

Cheers 🥃#whiskey pic.twitter.com/yxuXJ3zXj3

— Mat Houchens (@MatHouchens) June 13, 2020

The BLT, A Summery Cocktail

Summer is here and it is getting hot outside. Hot enough to need a good summer cocktail. Last night, I tried out the BLT cocktail and it was definitely refreshing on a hot summer night outside on the patio, with the bourbon, lemon, and tonic water to cool you down. Today, I'm sharing the recipe with you, because I think you'll want to try it out! 

BLT Cocktail

The Recipe

The Tools

• Cocktail Glass
• Jigger
• Cutting Board
• Knife

The Ingredients

• 2 oz Bourbon
• Tonic Water
• Lemon
• Ice

The Method

Fill a cocktail glass with ice. Then, using the small side of the jigger, add 2 oz of bourbon to your cocktail glass. For this recipe, I am using Bulleit Bourbon. Next, top off the glass with tonic water and give it a stir. Finally add your lemon wedge and give it a final stir. 

It's that simple. 3 ingredients for a refreshing summer cocktail. If you want it to be a little bit more like a spiked lemonade, you could a some simple syrup, but it honestly doesn't need it. Some mint would go really well with this too.

Slainte!

Whiskey Roundup 05/24/20 to 05/30/20

Every Saturday I go through Twitter with #whiskey and roundup my favorite whiskey articles! This is the

The Whiskey Roundup

Whiskey Roundup! 

They sure get it right in this post. Getting into whiskey or bourbon is intimidating. There are a lot of  options out and it's overwhelming for a first timer. One of the best ways to get started, besides picking up a glass, is to pickup a book. I think I'll be adding this one to my bookshelf. 

The Whiskey Ledger with Bourbon Apprentice #002 https://t.co/fViSguf21N 1 #whiskey pic.twitter.com/LPLvtCX78r

— The Whisk(e)y Chap 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿🥃 (@whiskeychap) May 26, 2020

This is a beautiful picture! I don't there is a better combination than a BBQ sandwich and a glass of whiskey. Something about the flavors are just perfect for each other..

Photo of the day #whiskey pic.twitter.com/bljQxtK9eP

— Whiskey Scene (@whiskeyscenemag) May 29, 2020

I've shared about Writer's Tears before, but have never had the opportunity try it. I don't know that I've ever seen it at a store.  This description makes me want to go hunting! 

This is delish! Bourbon and cognac casks wow. Bang full of vinella, almost syrupy neat. Beautiful when a drop of water added. 👍👍👍👍👍👍 Writers Tears Double oak #SaturdayNightSip #whiskey #writerstears pic.twitter.com/PIfgnGhHrP

— David Cantwell (@commercialphoto) May 30, 2020

What initially stopped me here was the truck. That blue truck is pretty cool! But looking at it further, I liked two things about this. First, it's always exciting for a blog to come out with a new look. Second, and I think this is obvious at this point, I love Irish Whiskey!

Welcome to our brand new site Best Ireland #Whiskey. We look forward to our journey with you talking about the spirit of #Ireland.https://t.co/OULPJddnuT pic.twitter.com/2yca0oUqhy

— Best Ireland Whiskey (@ireland_whiskey) May 28, 2020

Current Whiskey Inventory

I don't know about you, but I like to keep track of my current whiskey inventory. I get some flack for the amount that I have on hand, and I want to make sure I don't double up on anything. It's also a good way to keep track of whether you have tried something or not.

What is in your current whiskey inventory?

Current Whiskey Inventory

Bourbons

Wild Turkey 101 Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey

1835 Bourbon Whiskey

Jim Beam Repeal Batch Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey

Jim Beam Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey

Bulleit Kentucky Straight Bourbon

Bulleit 10 Year Aged Kentucky Straight Bourbon

Bulleit Barrel Strength Kentucky Straight Bourbon

Bulleit Blenders Select Kentucky Straight Bourbon

Weller Special Reserve The Original Wheated Bourbon

Buffalo Trace Kentucky Straight Bourbon

Garrison Brothers TX Straight Bourbon Whiskey

TX Straight Bourbon Whiskey

Knob Creek Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey Small Batch

Maker's Mark Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey

Evan Williams BIB Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey

Four Roses Small Batch Straight Bourbon Whiskey

Hickory Hill Single Barrell Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey

Eagle Rare Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey

Col EH Taylor Small Batch BIB Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey

Rye

Old Overholt Straight Rye Whiskey

Bulleit Rye Whiskey

Bulleit 12 Year Rye Whiskey

Balcones TX Rye 100 Proof Whiskey

Whiskey

Clyde Mayes Alabama Style Whiskey

Mellow Corn Straight Corn Kentucky Whiskey BIB

Crown Royal Blended Canadian Whiskey

Crown Royal Black Blended Canadian Whiskey

TX Blended Whiskey

Suntory Whisky Toki

The Sexton Single Malt Irish Whiskey

Jameson Irish Whiskey

Scotch

Glen Moray Single Malt Scotch

Glenmorangie Highlands Single Malt Scotch

The MacAllan 12 Single Malt Scotch

Oban 14 Single Malt West Highland Scotch

Glendronach 12 Highland Single Malt

Laphroaig 10 Islay Single Malt

Laphroaig 15 Islay Single Malt

Johnnie Walker Wine Cask Blend

Johnnie Walker Black Label

Whiskey Roundup 04/12/20 to 04/18/20

Every Saturday I go through Twitter with #whiskey and roundup my favorite whiskey articles! This is the Whiskey Roundup!




Lately, I haven't been shy about telling you about my love for Irish Whiskey. This is one of my favorites right now. I love seeing lists of new ones to hunt down and try!

A New Class of Irish Whiskeys Punches Above Its Weight https://t.co/UGBhk5IzCh 7 #whiskey pic.twitter.com/bF9scL88Iv

— The Whisk(e)y Chap 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿🥃 (@whiskeychap) April 16, 2020

Four Roses Small Batch is a fine whiskey. But beyond that, I could really feel the longing to share this bottle with friends. The last few weeks have been weird to say the least. Some day soon, we can all toast and share bottles and get together again. 

Really looking forward to doing this with friends again one day. #whiskey pic.twitter.com/rHpkbYaXvA

— Ƞ₳₮ĦȺ₦ ĦɄ฿Ƀ₳ɌÐ (@n8foo) April 16, 2020

This was an interesting read in to the world of Canadian Whiskies. The world has a tendency to see Crown Royal as the only Canadian Whisky offering. As it turns out, there are many to choose from, including labels that are well known, but perhaps forgotten as Canadian.

A Look Into the World of Canadian Distilleries https://t.co/f5uFfG8Igv #whiskey pic.twitter.com/TpYsjkYThN

— The Whisk(e)y Chap 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿🥃 (@whiskeychap) April 17, 2020

Glendronach has long been one of my favorite special occasion Scotches. I've been known to buy a bottle and nurse it for a year or so. I haven't heard of or seen this label, but I will be on the hunt for it. 

There is gonna be a Revival tonight!#scotch #whiskey @Glendronach pic.twitter.com/YhFTf2kLZ4

— Ben Trimbo (@BenTrimbo) April 17, 2020

Bar Essentials

For anyone looking to have a great home bar setup, it is important to gather up the right bar essentials. In this post, I am going to walk you through everything that I keep on hand to have a proper bar setup to make the perfect cocktails on demand.

Robert Mondavi Merlot and
Freixnet Cava

Bar Essentials

These are the essentials to always keep on hand

Liquor, Wine, and Beer

• Champagne
• My wife loves mimosas. It tends to be her drink of choice. For champagne, you can keep cava, champagne, or prosecco on hand. We typically drink cava, which is a Spanish sparkling wine vs the French champagne or Italian prosecco.
• Wine 
• Red and White - I typically keep mostly merlots and cabernets on hand. I prefer reds over white wines, but I will keep a bottle or two of chardonnay or sauvignon blanc on hand should anybody want it.
• Bourbon and Whiskey
• I always have a handful of bottles of bourbon and whiskey on hand. Though the lineup varies, my mainstays are Bulleit, Buffalo Trace, and TX Blended Whiskey.
• Scotch
• The first scotch I ever tried and really liked was The MacAllan 12. I always have a bottle on hand. I usually keep a few others including Glenmorangie, Glendronach, Laphroaig, and Oban.
• Gin



Bourbon, Gin, Vodka, Triple Sec, Tequila, and Scotch

• I don't drink a lot of gin, but I do keep a bottle on hand. Usually something less expensive like Lone Star Gin.
• Vodka
• Vodka seems to go quick. Everyone seems to rave about Tito's and Absolut, but for the money, I haven't found anything better than Dripping Springs Vodka.
• Tequila
• There are tons of tequila options out there. I typically go for a blanco tequila. A few years ago, we found Dolce Vida Organic Tequila and have been using that ever since.
• Beer
• I keep a fridge well stocked with craft beers and some standard mass produced offerings. I always make sure to leave room in the beer fridge for guests to bring over their drinks too. 

Liqueurs, Mixers, and Garnishes

• Triple Sec
• For making margaritas, an orange liqueur is key. Triple Sec is a good inexpensive option to keep around.  
• Bitters
• Bitters go in a lot of cocktails, most commonly Old Fashioneds. There are many varieties out there. I keep two on hand, angostura and orange.
• Cherries



Angostura Bitters, Orange Bitters, Simple Syrup, Olives,
Whiskey Cherries, Grenadine

• Cherries are a great garnish for many drinks. I like to make my own whiskey cherries.
• Grenadine
• Grenadine is a great product for adding cherry flavor to a drink. It can also be use as a sweetener and to give a splash of red to a drink.
• Simple Syrup
• Simple syrup is a sweetener that works much better than sugar. You can make your own to keep on hand.
• Bailey's
• Bailey's goes in many dessert beverages or coffee. 
• Garnishes
• Also sure to keep some fresh fruit, oranges, lemons, limes, and strawberries on hand. Also jarred martini onions and olives.

Glassware

• Highball Glass



Stemware, Highball Glass, Pint Glass, Old Fashioned Glass

• The classic mixed drink glass. Also for someone just looking for a water or club soda
• Old Fashioned Glass
• For drinking whiskey neat, on the rocks, or for making you Old Fashioned
• Pint glass
• For your best beer pours or for when you feel like a double
• Stemware
• Keep your flutes for special occasion pours of champagne. Otherwise, just stick to a wine glass for everyday use

Bar Tools

Bar Spoon, Shaker, Jigger, Muddler

• Cork screw
• Always keep a good cork screw or wine opener on hand. There are many types to choose. Find the one that works best for you.
• Bar Spoon
• A long skinny spoon for stirring drinks. Some have a fork at the end for fishing out garnishes at the bottom of a jar.
• Jigger/Shot Glass
• A jigger is a double sided premeasured cup. You can also use a shot glass
• Shaker
• Most cocktails need a shaker to be made properly. Make sure to keep a good shaker on hand. 
• Muddler
• A muddler is a great tool to use to break down fruit and other garnishes to help pull more of the flavor out.

Maker's Mark

Maker's Mark

A few weeks ago, I was in Dallas for a conference and brought some samples with me to enjoy in the hotel room. Before I went up to the room for the evening, I stopped at the hotel bar to enjoy a Maker's Mark. As a Maker's Mark ambassador, it only seemed right to offer up my tasting notes.

From the Label:

Maker's Mark, America's handmade bourbon whisky, all started because my grandfather, Bill Samuels, Sr., a sixth generation Kentucky distiller, didn't care for the whisky his family made. So in 1953 he burned the family recipe - literally - and started over. His taste vision was a soft, rich, creamy, full-bodied yet balanced bourbon. Meanwhile, my grandmother, Margie, was busy designing the bottle you're holding. In fact, it was her idea to hand-dip every bottle in red wax. To this day, making Maker's Mark - in small quantities, a little at a time - is still a family affair. Enjoy

Tasting Notes:

Color:

Maker's Mark has a deep rose gold color

Nose:

On the nose, I get notes of sweet, vanilla, and caramel

Taste:

I didn't get a very complex flavor profile. There were sweet notes of vanilla and caramel

Finish:

Maker's Mark has a short, smooth finish. It doesn't linger in your mouth. Up front, there are some spicy notes that give way to sweet notes on the finish. 

Overall, I like Maker's Mark. It's a nice fireside sipper and goes great in cocktails (I've written about a few of these before). It's interesting to get a little spice out of the bourbon since there is no rye use in the mash bill. Instead, wheat is used giving it a smoother profile.

Whiskey Roundup 06/02/19 to 06/08/19

Every Saturday I go through Twitter with #whiskey and roundup my favorite whiskey articles! These
are my favorites for this week!

This whiskey lineup looks amazing! Wish I could travel to participate!

Time for Ten Mile Square’s #whiskey tasting June 07, 2019 at 06:23PM pic.twitter.com/uasva9y0aq

— B2l Lenoir (@BillLenoir) June 7, 2019

Father's Day is coming up. This combines two of this father's favorite flavors, TX Whiskey and bundt cake!

Dad's a man a many tastes! No matter the flavor, we have the cake for Dad this Father's Day.
.
Have you tried our new TX Bourbon Whiskey Lane Jane?
.#fathersday #June16 #txbourbonwhiskey #txbourbonwhiskeylanejane #whiskey#janiescakes pic.twitter.com/N8S3Sg5Snh

— Janie's Cakes (@JaniesCakes) June 8, 2019

I am enjoying every drop of my bottle of Eagle Rare. I have not had the Micther's Rye, but rye is my favorite whiskey and i'm always looking for new offerings.

A couple of new, hard-to-get bottles for our top shelf: Eagle Rare Bourbon and Michter's Rye. Come try a pour and sip while you browse our specialty whisk(e)y selection... #nkc #whiskey pic.twitter.com/6WnUiuOtSi

— Mitch e Amaro (@mitcheamaro) June 8, 2019

Jack Daniels gets a bad rap for being just an an ordinary run of the mill whiskey. Honey aside, Jack Daniels has some special offerings, especially their single barrel varieties.

Eenie meenie
miney more !

hmmm, when
choices have
me stumped ..#JackDaniels #Whiskey
B 4 dinner drinks .. pic.twitter.com/PbrttLtA6o

— Otis What (@OtisWhat) June 8, 2019

Swedish Single Malt, I'm intrigued too!

Giving this a go tonight.
I'm intrigued... #whiskey #whisky #nightcap #nothingpeatythanks pic.twitter.com/e4xfAbXjCh

— Ceruse Digital Art (@ceruseinfo) June 6, 2019

Whiskey Roundup 05/26/19 to 06/01/19

I've been taking some time off the blog to focus on some things. We took a vacation last week, and I'm refreshed and back and ready to go.


Every Saturday I go through Twitter with #whiskey and roundup my favorite whiskey articles! These
are my favorites for this week!


This blue corn based bourbon is one of my favorites. As much as I love the smoothness of the wheaters, there's just something about Baby Blue that keeps me coming back!

This is how my evening is gonna go... #balcones #babyblue #texaswhiskey #whiskey #relaxation #ahhh @BalconesWhisky pic.twitter.com/h2yD8vHkZy

— Tuffins (@sfrancesmoran) June 2, 2019

It's good to see more and more offerings from Ireland getting some attention. Irish Whiskey has been dominated by Jameson and Bushmills. Don't get me wrong, I do like both of those, but I'm glad to see more and offerings take center stage.

Innovation, risk-taking and inspiration in Irish history are three constants 🥃🥃🥃 Three Irish whiskeys launched in May to try right now https://t.co/YrWPLMqLc8 #whiskey #IrishWhiskey pic.twitter.com/I9KSBq9Ho4

— Gabriela Guedez H (@GabyGuedezH) June 4, 2019

I'm familiar with the wines from Napa, but California whiskey is a new avenue for me. I'll have to keep an eye out for these!

California gets a taste of luxury #whiskey from a #Sonoma County Master Distiller. https://t.co/qKRDIlbOaZ pic.twitter.com/SGsmb7zWsj

— Gehl Search Partners (@GSP_Headhunters) June 4, 2019

This sounds like some quality dad time. There's a restaurant my dad and I like to go for lunch that has pretty good selection of Japanese whiskey. We've never had the chance to enjoy it, but we can still go and look and talk about them.

Had a great time with my dad hanging with the family.
First time ever trying Japanese whiskey with my dad.
Feeling very cultured 😎 #japanese #whiskey
The Nikka 12 is absolutely my favorite. pic.twitter.com/TI3oTDZnAn

— hen-tai (@NiggyTai) June 3, 2019