Whiskey

So we have a thread already dedicated to beer and since a new hobby of mine has been whiskey/bourbon, let's get a thread going about that. Here's my current inventory. Anybody have any brands or bottles they can recommend? I've already got a list of my own going.

Those look great, you should get into that Makers mark.....I enjoy all the Jamesons.

Another good one is Red Breast.

This is a Private Select at $67 a bottle so I'm trying to enjoy it and not just guzzle it down. It's very good as it's made from different oak staves every time so each barrel is quite literally a new batch. I was able to sample it in store and that sold me on it. Very good stuff if you can come across it. Blanton's is still my favorite (and hardest to come by) but the Buffalo Trace is my favorite for a daily drink (and for any bottle $30 or under).

Tonight's festivities. I never smoke a cigar but for whatever reason, when I went to the liquor store yesterday, I was in the mood for one. So I decided to light one up tonight along with my new bottle of whiskey. Tasty! Gotta pass the time and keep my sanity some how.

Very nice ....all above.

Is the Cigar a Padron?
Very nice.

I smoke Cigars often when the nice weather comes along since I would nt smoke indoors.

With everything going on and this Virus being a Lung thing, I have not been indulging,

Here is a funny item my wife sent to my phone.

LoL, funny photo and yes, good eye. The cigar was a Padron 2000 (guy at the store recommended it for me).

The wife has a great sense of humor Dues..Very nice!

Yes Hood, she does.... she has to being with me.

Can’t wait till Easter, not that its going to be our usual Holiday but I will get me some of that Whiskey

Glad you’re staying strong DP. What’s the first thing you’re gonna pour on Easter?

LMFAO

Thanks i12

Typically the first pour on Easter is the red wine my neighbor and I make from the Fall batch, Its kinda mild but sneaks up on ya.
Hood knows.

After a glass of wine, I will certainly have a Guinness stout or Harp after dinner with a cigar, then a snort of Jameson neat later in the evening.

Yes I Do!

Sounds like you’ve got your day planned. Less than 2 weeks to go!

4sURE

What 2 weeks of quarantine looks like. Was finally able to try a Colonel E.H. Taylor Jr. (Small Batch) and it was amazing! Hard to find but definitely in my top 3 now. Wolcott was good as well.

Very Nice...... I think I will have a few belts this Sunday.

What did you wind up having yesterday DP?

Well Sir, around 2PM , I had a small glass of red wine, followed by a small glass of white, both homemade.

Then before dinner a few pints of Coney Island Pilsner followed by a few Millers.

Then it was all food into the evening and never got that poke of Whiskey.

Maybe tonight or next weekend.

Attaboy DP. Way to spend a Sunday. Just sat by the pool with the wife, kids, and dogs drinking Heinekens and grilling for Easter. Spoke to the rest of the family, just wasn't the same.

Very nice! I hope you enjoyed it (sounds like you did).

Eagle Rare, by far- for the money, the best you can get. Had some store pick barrel bottles over the weekend. Great pours.

Eagle Rare is good but hard to find by me and personally, I think it's a tad overhyped. For me, my favorite daily sipper for under $30 would be Buffalo Trace and then Woolcott (keep in mind, I'm not including Blaton's, Colonel Taylor, etc. in to the daily sipper category as those bottles I stretch out due to their rarity in obtaining). But overall, my favorite is probably Blaton's, followed by Colonel Taylor (Small Batch is all I've tried so far unfortunately but loved my first taste of it!).

I used to drink hundred proof bourbon (JW Dant, Old Forester), but I quit--last time I had some was 50 years ago, at my brother in law's wedding. Today the only spirits I drink are Cognac, Armagnac and Calvados.

Last couple of week's score: the McKenna and Michter's I was disappointed in (particularly the McKenna because I know how hard it is to get and heard nothing but good things about it). The 1792 isn't a bad bottle for $25, something I can sip on daily. The Four Roses barrel strength was a barrel picked by a local bourbon society and was very good (my first introduction to Four Roses by the way). Then I tried the regular Four Roses (again, not bad for $20). The Old Taylor 6 was good but I'm a fan of the Colonel Taylor line. And today I'm trying Booker's for the first time after picking up my first bottle (Granny's Batch). Not bad, a tad overpriced. I'd try other Booker's but I hear they kind of hit and miss for some folks. Hard to come by so I had to grab it and see for myself.

Where ARE u getting booze at during these times???

Liquor stores by me are all open

Ahh...ur lucky..I miss a good sip..wine is getting old..not 2
mention the occasional heartburn it can cause.

They're closed by you? They've all been open by me as they've been deemed essential (and I'm not complaining!)

I was just talking about this yesterday about Blanton's. Went to my spot today to see if they had any Colonel E.H. Taylor 18-year marriage as I've heard they're starting to get released and this was the only bottle they got and I snatched it. Makes 7 bottles I have now and I have letters B, L, N, T, O. Just missing letter A & another N. Once COVID-19 hit, I was walking in every week grabbing one until I finally figured I had enough (bad mistake). The next 2 or 3 weeks I passed on them and now for the last 6 weeks or so, I hadn't seen anymore until today!

Tried Colonel E.H. Taylor Jr. Small Batch for the first time a few months ago and it quickly shot up towards the top of my favorites list. Tried the Rye last week and it was good but I overpaid for it. Has a little more spice than I like. Picked up the Single Barrel today and liked it. Not as much as the Small Batch but better than the Rye. Have not been disappointed in a Colonel Taylor yet (and I even grabbed a few bottles of the Taylor 6 year and that's good too for the price).

I may try that, sounds good.

Thanks i12

?

How did you drink your whisky?

I like it neat.

I drink it neat as well. Be forewarned though, Colonel E.H. Taylor Jr. is hard to find.

Jameson Black Barrel (think we're on our 5th bottle since this started) for us. Also, bought my husband an excellent rye whiskey called Whistle Pig for Christmas. That's pretty much gone, too.

Whistle Pig is good SB. I've only had one and it's still sitting in my cabinet (rationing it). Good but expensive.

U guys(U & My man Dues) must b whacked...talking about whisky all the time? Geez..I cant (at my age) put 3 shots down w/ out gettin' queezy....Didn't u guys ever hear of wine??LOL..I know u have Dues..I have proof.. Whats next ..? ..cigars?? Dont u dudes go silly on me..luv ..Hood.

Never been a wino and I enjoy an occasional cigar (like once a year) but that's about it. I'm more of a beer and (now) whiskey guy.

Love u & respect ur juice...ive always took ur words as an honor ....ur a man of men Irish12..God Bless You.

That's very kind of you to say and thank you. You're words mean a lot to me. God bless you too my friend. Keep yourself safe!

When I drink Whiskey, I drink Whiskey

When I drink Wine I drink Wine.

https://youtu.be/C18jBLKZ5pc

Nice DP!

I've always been partial to this song myself

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PAK5blgfKWM

Luv it...... The Doors;;;;;; Classic

Not a bad haul today. First time grabbing both. Tried the 12 and I liked it but don't see what all the hype is about? Good, but not great. Probably in my top 5. Going to try the Elmer this weekend.

Another new edition today. Was supposed to get the Weller CYPB but it was already sold out so this was my consolation prize (was still on my list so I was happy). Now I'm just needing the Weller CYPB and Weller Single Barrel. I'll try this tomorrow but had the Elmer today and I liked it! Sad to hear it's discontinued 😌

Smoke Wagon is a popular brand by me but I haven't been able to score one at my local spot so I had to go to the secondary market (for the first time) to score 'em and try 'em. I tried the Straight Bourbon and Small Batch (far left & center) and I like them. I prefer the Straight over the SB as it's a smoother pour, but both stand on their own. Going to try the Uncut/Unfiltered (bottle on the right) later in the week.

I tried the Uncut Unfiltered Smoke Wagon today and enjoyed it more than I thought I would. Obviously at 114 proof you're going to taste it but not as much spice as I anticipated (which I prefer). If I come across any more, I'll definitely grab them. There's also a Desert Jewel and Private Barrel I need to try but those are a little harder to come by. As for these, I'd rank them from best to worst: Straight, Uncut Unfiltered, Small Batch.

I picked these up today. First Weller I've seen in weeks so there may be more bottles dropping this week or next. I hadn't tried either the BT Kosher or ECTB before purchasing. The BT Kosher just got released this year and that's what I just tried. I liked it, a little hint of mint on the end with not an overabundance of spice. I'll taste the ECTB here in a bit. This just got released recently as well and is popular in my local Facebook group so decided to give it a shot. Saw it available on the secondary market yesterday at $80 a bottle and glad I passed as the retail was $44.

Not whiskey related but I got my hands on Smoke Wagon's Silver Dollar American Vodka. Looking forward to trying it!

Never heard of it, I will mention this to one of my Vodka drinkers.

I hope they like it DP! I just tried it today and it's delicious. Very smooth and goes down easy. Probably my favorite vodka up there with Tito's. Ordered another 2 bottles online.

The family grew by 1 today and I got LUCKY! Random drop on a store's barrels pick (total of 8 different barrels). Limit was 2 bottles per person and was able to score them before they sold out. Tried it and it was good but quite a bit of spice (not surprising from 114.5% proof). New rankings: Straight, UU, PB, SB

Today, I was able to snag a Caribou Crossing Single Barrel (i.e. "The Canadian Blantons") While not overly flavorful, I wasn't disappointed in it and it went down easy. Paid $50, which was appropriate. Anymore and you would have been overpaying.

I've been coming up empty the last few weeks from my usual spot but was able to snag this today.

Got the heads up on this today from a friend and grabbed it. 136.6 proof and tastes good!

You Sir have a great collection of fine Whiskey,

Thank you sir. It's costly to live like this but worth it (and I enjoy it). Have made a couple of friends at my local spot, waiting for the store to open to grab allocated bottles. 1 of them was the one who turned me on to the bottle I grabbed today (ECBP).

2nd Weller 107 I grabbed this week. Heard the Maker's 101 is only available internationally at duty free shops but because of the virus and travel being down so much this year, they're releasing them in the States to move units. I took a flyer on it and I actually like it. Not a pricey bottle either at $33.50. I'll probably pick up another bottle.

I was at a dinner party several years ago and watched the host sitting next to me slowly drink an entire bottle of Makers Mark throughout the evening.
tHE MAN DID NOT EVEN APREAR TO BE SLIGHTLY BUZZED.
I was amazed and will never forget that.

Wow!

Last night's late night pickup. Got a text from a friend that the store he was at had 1 more of the Sweet Wheats which I'd been wanting to try. I'd had 1792 Small Batch and Bottled in Bond and I wasn't impressed with either but this Sweet Wheat was very good. Hard to find but if I see it again, I'd grab another bottle. Smooth but with a somewhat creamy taste to it. Also picked up another McKenna 10. Bought and tried it for the first time months ago and wasn't overly impressed. Went back to it recently after "letting it breath," and enjoyed it more a second time around so went ahead and picked this up as well while getting the SW.

I know this is a popular bottle so I grabbed it today. Tried it, loved it, went back to the store and picked another one up. If you see one in the wild, it's definitely worth the $40 MSRP.

Since my liquor store stopped carrying the allocated bottles, my purchasing has drastically slowed down. However, while out for lunch today I stopped by a Mom & Pop shop and asked if they had either a 1792 Sweat Wheat, Stagg Jr., or Taylor Barrel Proof. He said no to all but said he had some Smoke Wagon Uncut Unfiltered then went back and said he had a Stagg Jr. He charged secondary prices, and it hurt to pay it, but I was curious enough to try it. At 130.2 proof, I'm surprised I like it as much as I do as I typically don't like anything over 115. This didn't have as much spice/heat as I was expecting. But then again, I shouldn't have been too surprised as it's Buffalo Trace and they've never done me wrong.

Picked up the Aged Twelve Years yesterday and Sweet Wheat today. Not a bad start to the weekend. Have had the SW before but this was my first time trying the 12 years. I liked it but not better than the SW. 1792 has been hit and miss for me: not a fan of the Small Batch or Bottled in Bond. The 12 year's good and the SW is their best.

My local spot that was "no longer carrying allocated bottles" dropped Rock Hill Farms Single Barrel, Stagg Jr, this, Eagle Rare, and EH Taylor Small Batch. Missed out on the RHF and Stagg Jr. as I was aiming for those but this was a very sweet consolation prize: vanilla and fruits. Smooth and delicious all the way down. Recommended if you come across it (Act 8, Scene 2). Can't vouch for any other batch and this was my first time trying Midwinter Nights Dram.

I grabbed everything but the MWND yesterday. Tried the High West Double Rye and thought it was ok, nothing special. Haven't tried the American Prairie Bourbon or the 1792 Sib yet (the 1792 I got from a friend at cost who was looking to get rid of it). For $40, I figured it was worth taking a flyer on. Grabbed a second bottle of MWND today. Can't believe I've grabbed 2 bottles in the past 3 days. Still pressing my luck, hoping I can stumble upon a Rock Hill Farms SiB or Stagg Jr. that they had the other day.

I went out last night to grab a bottle of Red Spot that I heard dropped by me yesterday. I'd been looking for this for at least the last 6 months when I tried Green Spot and thoroughly enjoyed it. I understand Red Spot is a lot more difficult to come by so I jumped at the chance of procurring a bottle for myself. However, before I dispatched on my way towards picking it up, I was pleasantly surprised by a phone call I received. This was from another local store that I hadn't been in for a number of months (think 4-5 at minimum). They called to tell me they had a bottle of Stagg Jr. with my name on it. Not one to argue the absurdity of it all, I quickly got off the phone and grabbed this bottle before acquiring the bottle that was my intention of leaving my domicile in the first place.

Man, you have some collection i12

Have you ever had Red Breast or Middleton?

This week broke me financial DP, don't you worry. But I appreciate it. Some of these (like the Stagg Jr., Red Spot, Midwinter Night's Dram) only come out once a year, so you've gotta be prepared to buy them, otherwise you'll have to wait another year for it. And the Stagg Jr. and Midwinter Night's Dram I liked so much, I grabbed a second bottle as backup. To answer your question, no, I haven't tried Red Breast or Middleton. They're good?

Yes ....very good.

I am interested to see if a client of mine has had these, he is a huge whiskey enthusiast.

I missed a Spec's store pick of Colonel Taylor Single Barrel a few weeks back and rumor was there was going to be a Weller Full Proof store pick dropping soon and I was hoping it would drop today. Unfortunately it didn't and I'm not sure it will as there's another rumor going around that the Weller Full Proof was only for a certain area of the state and not my city. Today wasn't a total waste though as I'll take this as a consolation prize any day of the week (Blanton's Spec's store pick)!

Wow. I VE seen those bottles before really cool.

Enjoy

Thanks DP. Grabbed another bottle yesterday when I was visiting friends out of town. Not a bad haul for 2 days as these won't go to waste!

Shown those to my Wife , she said ...” you gotta have one of those on your bar”

I will certainly get one of those bottles.

Nice! Ever had it before?

Never had nor even heard of Hancock's Reserve until about a week ago. But the store I was at had it today and it's a Buffalo Trace product so I grabbed it. A $50 bottle and it's good, not great, and probably more in line with a $35-$50 bottle. Not disappointed I picked it up though. They were also handing out allocated Jack Daniel's Single Barrel Special Release Rye so I grabbed one of those as well (haven't opened it yet so the jury's still out).

I'm so fucking drunk right now. Beendrinkin all night and doin lots of snow. Do you guys only drin'k when you party

my favorite whiskey is jameson. Proper Irish

I only drink ralphie. I don't mess with anything else (cigarettes or otherwise). I'm not much for Irish whiskey (too low proof for me) but Bushmills and Green Spot I do like. Have you had either?

I drink only also, little whiskey and Rum.

Mostly Beer.

Too old for Blow, you better be careful Ralphie.... your taxing your heart enough with that weight.

That is 2 f...cking funny....here is an ass of guy 2 say online he does blow..clearly needs attn...years ago I knew he was a thumbsucker (baby)...said he lives in Beverly Hills..but probably lives in parents basement.....all his commentaries about the mob r half based...nice guy in real life 4sure..but anybody that advertises that they enjoy nose candy or otherwise should be more examined...

loll Im not a thumbsucker. What the fuck dude! I come from a very wealthy family in BH but currently live with my auntie in Anaheim. Yes I'm fat. Extremely fat. I love food but Im dealin with it. As far as the blow goes, it helps me deal with life. I was sober for many years but 2020 was bad

Dont worry about me. I dont do a lot. Maybe 2 grams a day or so

Ahhhh Ive had bushmills. I love it. Today Im drinking some VSOP

Who mentioned that I was referencing a guy named Ralphie???..I'm way 2 heavy 4 my size bracket also...but, as Bobbie Bacala said..."I love food"!!...I'm eating spanish blood sausage & rice w/beans as I write this......sorry if u thought i offended u dude.............now go get ur shinebox..oh, i;m sorry ..ur straw or rolled up dollar bill..lol...just fuckin' w/u kid...

you're my bro

Just poured myself a full glass of Jim Beam's Devil's Cut. You guys tried it?

I have and I wasn't a huge fan. Not a big fan of Jim or the higher proof stuff. I like to be in the 90%-105% range.

Geez I12...u must have a liver made of iron..cant believe ur around my or Dues age bracket...lol !!!

Just poured myself a full glass of Jack Daniel's. You guys like Jack?

Why do you say that?



Jack's definitely more my style 🥃

In response my man Irish 12......@ the age 57 , I can no longer tolerate harsh high proof spirits...as a young tough rock & roll & heavy metal musician in the 80s & early 90s , I have beaten my self physically up to it's max..w/drink & drugs...I cannot even look at line of coke w/ out getting nauseous..drink is a different thing...it' runs in the family if u know what I mean.....I try 2 limit my shit as I don"t want 2 end up like my mother........I am not an expert @ these projects that come so easily 2 u but not so much 2 children of Irish descent as to us....I mean no disrespect..I like u I 12..But I cannot in this day & age understand why u .make a project out of booze...Dues is a little bit diff.....he likes his beer...different kinds..but Whiskey?????? U sound way 2 Irish 4 me...U would have gotten along w/ my old man.lol...Anyways...a shot of Old Bushmills (a double) is ggood 4 1 nite 4 me....SLANTIE.....luv u .....

Just poured myself a full glass of Chivas Regal 12. Do you guys like that one? I can't function without it

I am mostly a beer guy, I can and do sip a few inches of Jamesons on occasion.

I have a pretty good stocked bar in my basement, I dont drink much of the stuff on it other than the wine and Jameson but like the way it looks.
I send a pic.

No offense taken. Like DP said, I'm more of a beer guy but somehow in 2020 I fell into the bourbon game. But like any hobby, I'm probably fall out of it just as quickly. But these bottles I'm buying, I'm cracking them to taste them and then putting them away. I'm not going through a bottle a night but with me being Irish, I never stood a chance if you know what I mean.

Yes Sir...I do know what u mean....both my parents r off the boat in the late 40s...I grew up w/ out a brough (accent)..but my oldest sister who was born in 1950..still has a slight accent..I guess from being that accesible 2 it from an early age...I used 2 bring my friends home from school & they would ask me why my parents talked funny...funny?? I never noticed it because I was so used 2 it...but up 2 this day I can replicate it like a true Irishman...I still in my mind keep hearing my old man telling me 2 " Take the fooking trough and deeg the dirt ""so yuu can plant the potaatos"..anyways..forget about what I said...I know ur not in danger of being like my mother in any sort of the way...Cheers!!

Been drinking Chivas all nigh

I'm done with the snow. Haven't slept for three days

Alberta Premium Cask Strength Rye Whiskey, rated the 2020 Whiskey of the Year. Saw a bottle so I had to grab it and try it for myself. For 132 proof, this is surprisingly smooth. I get the hints of fruit but not vanilla or chocolate. Overall not bad and it only cost $60, but I wouldn't claim it to be the best whiskey of the year.

Had a mild heart attack yesterday. Nothing to worry about. Still at the hospital, but should be home tomorrow. My doctor said I should stay away from all substances, but I'm definitely getting hammered tomorrow if they release me. My friend gave me a bottle of Crown Royal Northern Harvest Rye.

Hope you feel better ralphie. Heed the doctors orders.

If Bills win tonight I can see a bit of Jameson in my near future.

Whether they win or lose you should see Jameson in your future. If they win, you're celebrating, And if they lose, you're mourning.

Right, had a sip of some bourbon or whisky my friend offered me this weekend Buffalo something... I meant to take a picture but will look for it and post it.

Buffalo Trace, came right up.

This was it, pretty good..... I just had a taste since I was already into a few beers and wine was on the menu for dinner as well.

Buffalo Trace is one of my favorite daily sippers. Good stuff at a good price as well! You've got good taste DP 🥃

He is bringing the rest of the bottle over this weekend for the game.
I think i may really tear into it since some good and plenty food will be out and thats when I get my drink on.

You've gotta treat yourself sometimes. Enjoy DP! I went to a local distillery this past weekend and unless I go out of town this weekend, I'm hoping to hit up another one on Saturday. I do tours and samplings. I enjoy it, it's inexpensive, and I get to try out there line of whiskeys, since for either distillery I hadn't tried any of them before except 1 line of the one I went to last weekend.

Nice mail day! I still have a bottle of the Buffalo Trace Kosher Straight Rye so I'm curious how the Rye Recipe and Wheat Recipe will taste compared to it? The Straight Rye I actually quite liked as it had a mint flavor on the back end. The Taylor's are just some additional bottles to my collection since that and the Heaven Hill BiB are 2 of my faves. Can never have enough of them!

Doing a bit of kosher sampling tonight. L'Chaim! 🥃

Today's haul. Cobra Kai never dies! 🐍👊

Wow....those are nice selections

Thanks DP! 🥃

Holy shit I need to try those. Big Cobra Kai fan here. Love that Johnny Lawrence and Daniel LaRusso are teaming up lol

These are both barrel picks of Heaven's Door. Never had it before but once I saw the stickers, I knew I had to have them. Cracked one open today. It's a rye & whiskey blend so it has the rye taste but with a smooth, bourbon finish so you don't get that spicy/harsh rye bite to it.

Man, you really know your shit Bro.

I've developed my palate over the last year DP, but I appreciate it!

Do any of u guy's know anything about what is supposedly a "Rolls Royce of Scotch" called " Ardbeg Double Barrel "..1974..single cask..??..My local purveyor told me 2 either enjoy this golden goose or sell it 2 him 4 a MAJOR $$$ factor.......I found it when I was rehabbing my aunt's house 4 the 2nd time after my 1rst tenants moved out recently....it was in a crawlspace that I used 2 play in when I was a child & nobody would find except 4 my aunt & UNCLE JIM...who was a big spirit drinker & ww2 bomber pilot...I KNOW it had 2 have been his...any advice from my Irish chums???

That is a great story, I am not familiar with it but will ask another friend who is a Big Scotch guy.

Maybe he has heard of it.

Dam....if its this stuff , the first thing I found on it is it could be worth 5 large...... $5,000

Sorry hood but I'm not a Scotch drinker. Try to Google it and see if you can't research the value of it. Definitely don't want to sell yourself short.

Tonight's sampling: Hair of the dog that bit me 🐩

What is that white stuff?

Do you have a picture of the bottle?

I think it could be very nice bottle but to get that high a value it needs to be the 1975, i think you mention 1973 bottle.

Did you tell your Aunt it is very rare?

Did you find other interesting items in the attic.?

Whiskey the way they made it in the pioneer days: straight off the still. Whiskey is clear until it's added to barrels for aging (that's what gives it it's color).

Yes, that is it Dues....I've found that in 2004 , Playboy was trying 2 sell it 4 $20,000.00 4 a 2 bottle set w/ all the usual Playboy trimmins...velvet case etc...What should I do w/ this product???....savor it or sell..2b honest , I don't know about drinking stuff that has been sitting in my (now) house 4 this long...lol...what a find!!...

No..NO no,,,,Dues..it is 1974 written on the bottle...& no, u know I;m stupid about computers tech. pics....By the way..4 any one who don't know me that well ( not u Dues)..my aunt passed in 2018 & left me the house / w is now a rental..

I just got a family in there ...4 a 2 yr lease..but if any of u posters wanna think about moving in a well 2 do section of the upper n.e. philly area..pm me.........

Not a bad whiskey Wednesday. Won a raffle at Total Wine so was able to purchase the George T. Stagg at retail ($140 + tax) and got the 3 Heaven Hill 6 year's (Kentucky exclusives) as well. The Stagg can go on the secondary market for anywhere from $600-$650, so I'm beyond excited that I bought it at retail and for getting to try it!

Keep it.

Not a huge haul today but definitely curious how both of these are going to turn out? Never had any of the Old Fitzgerald before and this is only 80 proof but for the price, it was hard to pass up to try it. The Maker's Mark also sounds delicious. Never had bourbon for breakfast before.

Picked up some store picks today of Buffalo Trace and Blanton's. The Blanton's is only 375ml unfortunately but I don't have one that size (only 750ml). Store picks are usually better than the regulars they have out on the shelf, so I'm curious to see how much better these are? Won't be opening them for a while however because I already have bottles of each already open.

Saw this in a local liquor store while picking up some champagne for the new baby.

Niece had a baby girl this week.

What did you get DP?

I got a bottle of Jameson....for Paddys Day.

Wife got a bottle of Asti Spumante' for her and her girlfriend.
She don't drink but will toast an event.

Very nice. Enjoy yourselves DP.

A friend picked this up for me back in November as it's a store pick at a local liquor store by him. He was able to grab one before it sold out since I have no idea when I'll be back in that area (haven't been there since Thanksgiving of 2019)?

Grabbed this to give it a shot. Heard nothing but good things about it and hopefully it doesn't disappoint. Haven't had enough MM to say if I care for it one way or another but their Private Selection last Spring was amazing!

A friend of mine out of town was able to pick me up this EC 12 year SiB store pick. Phase 2, getting it to me. More than likely another friend of mine who goes to his neck of the woods every so often (and grabbed the EC Daniel Craig 9 year SiB store pick) will mule it for me.

Drinking Johnnie Walker Blue right now. I actually like black better though

I've only had the Johnnie Walker blue from their lineup and it's good. Not much for scotch and it's $200 per bottle but it is good stuff. Enjoy it!

Thanks my friend. I'm a bourbon guy too. Love me some Knob Creek 2001 Limited

I haven't had much KC but I know they're popular. The 15 and 12 year's have really exploded in demand. I tried a store pick last year (think it was a 10 year) and really enjoyed it. Went back and grabbed another bottle and that bottle was actually from the year before and as a 12 year (haven't cracked that one yet though).

Bottles I've picked up the last few weeks. Got a lot to crack open and try. A few bottles aren't posted as I'm still waiting for them to come in.

Nice collection there i12

Thanks DP. Looking forward to cracking a few of them tomorrow!

Doing some Spot sampling today. My rankings:

1) Chateau Leoville Barton
2) Blue Spot
3) Red Spot
4) Yellow Spot
5) Green Spot
6) Chateau Montelena.

I got the whisky last year but missed out on the beer. Was able to snag a bottle of the beer today so giving both of them a shot tonight.

My latest grabs. Gotta get them before they're all gone as the Yippee-Ki-Yay and the 7,000 are discontinued and the Bourye's now a distillery only exclusive.

Today's grabs: Stagg Jr. was secondary but Woodford Reserve was retail.

Long day today, but got everything done. Treating myself to a fresh crack. For 123.7 proof, it drinks pretty smooth. Little bit of heat on it, but no spice. My first Woodinville I've ever tried and surprised it's from Washington state.

Mock me if you must, but I think I just found my new daily sipper 🌽

I just found this guy on the tube.

Let me know what you think of his opinions....
He is kinda funny

https://youtu.be/7K2mFAd1z7U

Thanks DP. I own the Elmer T Lee. It's good but not worth the secondary prices. I've had the Old Tub and will agree, this is definitely a bottle to pass on. A lot of people like it because of the price (around $20) but even at that price, I wouldn't buy one again. Have never had the Rebel Yell, Old Forester Single Barrel, or America's Finest Bourbon. Thanks for the video.

Drinking Label 5 Extra Rare 18 right now

Finally tried an Old Fitzgerald today (not BiB unfortunately) but this is delicious, even coming in at 80 proof!

Please... tell? (BiB)


I just indulged in some Wild Turkey, I always have it up on the bar for offering and had many takers over the years but only drink it myself when out of Jamesons stock and only drink the 18 Reserve on Holidays.


Have it but refuse.


The WT was pretty good..

Any thoughts on the "Kentucky Fuck".....as I call it....no offense meant at all , just a NicName.

Sorry DP, BiB = Bottled in Bond. Those are the most popular Old Fitzgerald's. Not terribly priced MSRP but are popular and secondary prices run a couple of hundred dollars each.

Not a fan of WT, too much heat/spice for me. I like my bourbon between 90-105 proof but even then, I like it smooth because I only drink it neat.

Did some Ancient Age sampling today. The 10 was my favorite, followed by the regular, and lastly the Preferred but overall, wasn't too impressed with any particular one.

Nice.... I had the one to the left once.

Good stuff.

That one was actually my least favorite of the 3 DP

First time trying Nulu today. Overall, not too bad. I did like the toasted quality of the juice, but overall, nothing too special. Have another pick coming in a few weeks that I ordered a few months back.

https://youtu.be/uOfutUPy6Tk

My Irish peeps representing! 🍀🥃 I'm the same, I drink my whiskey neat (never mixed). If it's a higher proof, I may add some water from time-to-time to see if it opens it up anymore but 99.9% of the time, it's straight up.

When you don’t get the sweep but still take 2 out of 3 from those cheating Asterisks!

They had a rough afternoon

Mets Won.

Fresh crack Fridays! Between the Nulu and the Woodford Reserve, I liked the WR better. Put a picture of the Hulk Nulu Toasted Barrel as an opponent to the Cap SiB Nulu and Cap won

Wow, great looking bottles.

Thanks DP. Loved the Woodford Reserve so much, got a second bottle (tasted like chocolate and marshmellow). Got another bottle from the same place coming in as well. I'll post a pic when it arrives (hopefully before the end of the week).

This is a popular bottle by me and somewhat hard to find. Found a store that had it and decided to give it a shot. A good but not great pour. Not overly priced at $45, but wasn't wowed after the first taste either. Will go back to it to see if it picks up any.

Trying this for the first time as well and I enjoyed it. Didn't love it but enjoyed it more than the Bowman SiB. However, this was a store pick from Total Wine so I am curious how much that factored in to it compared to the regular swill?

4 Roses Total Wine pick 🌹 First OBSF I’ve had and I like it, but I still prefer the OESV.

Your collection amazed me totally.

I have seen some amazing collections on many incredible bars over the years and many have had some wild offerings but your personal collection is even better since you, like me with cigars look for value and not just he most perceived premium choice.

Luv it i12

I appreciate it DP! Honestly, been cutting back a little bit. The hobby can get very expensive and I'm trying to save some money so I haven't purchased as much recently. But last week I did go on a bit of a "binge" with the John J Bowman, Russell's Reserve and I got another bottle of the Woodford Reserve Double Oak (well, 2 actually since I loved the first bottle so much plus a different bottle from the same group). Hope to have them by this weekend or next week at the latest. Will post a picture of the additional bottle from there when I crack it.

Great, enjoy...will be looking out for it.

Newest addition: Tumblin Dice group pick. Just missing Ironman now

Doing some High West sampling this Memorial Day.

Was finally able to track down a bottle of Woodford Reserve Very Fine Rare Bourbon and I'm disappointed. Prior to this I'd had 3 different WR variations and enjoyed each one of them immensely. However, this does not justify the price (even at MSRP). Had a lot of oak and leather to it, which weren't terrible, but compared to the other 3 WR's I'd had, this is by far the worst.

I'm hit or miss when it comes to rye's but got a sample of this from a buddy and was in the mood for more today so I stopped by Total Wine to pick up a bottle. No spice, just mint, and very tasty.

A little bit of bourbon and a little bit of reading.

This was my haul from today. I've cut back a little on my buying but splurged today. All of these I've never tried before with the exception of the Evan Williams BiB and SiB.

Trying Sam Houston for the first time. Got it about $20-$30 off MSRP and I enjoyed it. Good, but nothing that blew me away. Had a little bit of heat on it but at almost 75% corn, I was a little disappointed and I typically like corn and wheat bourbons but this didn't have the same smooth and creaminess I associate with those grains.

I was with someone yesterday who offered Buffalo Trace.

It was very good and I think we drank too much of it and had a couple of cigars.

Great DAY.

Nice DP. Buffalo Trace is one of my favorite daily sippers! How did you like it?

Feels like a Dickel kinda hump day. First time trying out the 8 & 12 years (and that 15 is delicious and at a great price point).

I liked it a lot and must get a bottle on my bar.

Good to hear. Enjoy it!

Oh I will, I would never had tried that if I did not know of you mentioning it.

I usually so not partake in many spirits unless its very unique or true Irish.

I did sip this one since you recommended.

When it comes to the hard stuff I’m a bit snobie.

I appreciate that. I'm the say way. With food, I'm very open minded and will try anything. However, when it comes to alcohol, I'm usually set in my ways in what I like and what I don't like. Glad I was able to turn you on to it. If you want another one to chase down, try Mellow Corn. It's $12.50 a bottle by me but it's 100 proof, smooth, creamy, and delicious!

Thanks, I’ll look for it or wait for it to cross my path.

Hump day 🐫

Good for you… that looks great.

Arturo Fuente , my good friend and I were just discussing AF cigars last night.
When we first started purchasing and sometimes smoking cigars , those things were 2 bucks a piece, now they are $15.

I used to buy cigars in the 80”s but did not smoke them.
As a gift I would buy a $120 box of Partaga 898 for Wild Bill Cutolo, i lived next door to him for a few years.

The AF's were only about $8 or $9 by me. I hardly ever smoke but was in the mood this week so I had one on Wednesday and another again last night. They were good!

Nice.... NY tobacco is very exspensive....tax on tax on tax.

I buy on line.

One of the reasons I moved out of the state. They tax you to death.

I tell my wife once a week we need to bail but she loves it here…..
\I could live anywhere.

I do miss some aspects of it but overall, I'm happier outside the state (politics, weather, taxes, etc.). Although I do miss my Yankees, food, the City, etc.

Had some Scewball Peanut butter whisky yesterday.

Tasted better the first time.

Friend puts it over ice cream.

I've had it once and it wasn't bad but with some of those flavored whiskeys, I need to be in the mood because they're sweet and I drink my whiskey only neat.

Today's pick-ups and first time trying both. The Blue Note, especially for it's low proof and price point (91.9 and $150 respectively) I was disappointed in. Had a mostly leathery taste with the faintest hint of spice on it. It was good but the price did not justify this after a first tasting. Will have to go back to it to see if it's not better a second time around. The High West was more enjoyable with plenty of mint, a little more spice (but not overly done) and about $100-$110 cheaper.

Today's pickups. The Dickel 8 year was good and I liked the price ($27) but that Baker's blew my mind! Easily my favorite Jim Beam product. Picked up a backup after sampling.

Irish 12 ...U should b down here in n.e. Philly , They have whisky & wine tastings every fri. in the state stores....I personally dont partake , but seein's u r a connissuir..u would like..I DO appreciate Jim Beam products alot though...I'll have 2 try that Bakers , thanx 4 the tip.

Not a problem hood, hope you enjoy it! It's allocated so it'll be a little hard to come by and don't overpay for it either. Some of the mom and pop liquor stores charge secondary prices for popular bottles. MSRP on this is $61 by me. My main liquor store that I go to that's a retail chain (Total Wine) they offer classes where you can go and sample multiple drinks. They do it by category (wine, bourbon, scotch, etc.). They have a few finger foods out and I've been to a couple and I've enjoyed them. They just opened the classes back up and I signed up for a "World of Whiskey" class for September, so I'm looking forward to that. This'll be my first class post-COVID.

I will also have to find that Bakers, im surprised in the Blue Note....thought that was supposed to be a top shelfer.



Enjoy.

Thanks DP. I'll have to go back to the Blue Note. Sometimes what happens is I'll try something, not like it, then go back to it a few days or weeks later and enjoy it so much more. Some say it's due to oxidation and the bourbon "airs out," but there's no science to back that up. However, it is most definitely a thing.

I would certainly yield to you and your opinion since I usually get to try some of these randomly when with a person who like you , knows their shit and offers me or insists i at least try it since it’s a rare opportunity

I'm always open-minded enough to try new things. Glad you are as well.

First off...I would like 2 implicate a certain individual 4 turning me on 2 the BEST hard liquor I've ever had....I believe it was either a high priced Jameson or Old Bushmills...completely high end good material....U know who u r sir.....many years ago & I not have forgotten.....on the holidays....I have yet 2 repay u..w/ @ least something as equal..I will never forget that 1rst taste of that nectar of the gods.....2nd off..u r an inspiration 2 ppl. like me 2 keep our cool when we ( I ) r upset about something....ur key peace saying { Be Loyal, Be Loving, Be Quiet.}..is as real as it gets..

Not sure if that's directed towards me or someone else hood? In any case, glad you enjoyed the juice!

Some Nulu sampling tonight. My rankings were Cap, Toasted Hulk, then Unfinished Hulk

Sorry I12 ...many yrs. ago,, Dues sent me a gift in the mail that I will never forget.

Just poured myself some Jim Beam Bonded. Perhaps the best of the Jim Beams

Sounds like an awesome guy!

I'm not much of a Jim Beam fan but if you've never tried Baker's 7, that is easily my favorite JB product (and probably in my top 5 favorite whiskies).

Thank you Irish. I'll check it out

Let me know you're thoughts if you do. It's allocated but dropped by me a few weeks ago. Bought a bottle, tried, it and loved it. Picked up another 2 1/2 bottles since then (the 1/2 bottle was already opened by someone else).

Tonight's festivities. The maple is good, not great but that Knob Creek is amazing. Great balance of spice and mint. Rye's are hit-and-miss for me but this one found the mark (both are SP's BTW).

Oh I have a bottle of that knob….that’s Kentucky…right.

I like that stuff.

Yes, it's Kentucky. Another Jim Beam product. Great balance of spice and mint as rye's are hit-and-miss for me due to the spice but this has the best of both world's, with neither winning the overall battle. Will have to go back and buy a backup bottle as this is a local store pick.

First time trying Taconic and it’s not bad. Getting some honey and hot fudge from it (this is definitely a dessert barrel). Finish had a little bit of pepper and spice to it but drinks lower than 124 proof. Also, somewhat from the part of the state I'm from.

Two for Tuesday: Daniel Craig 9 year, 94 proof Elijah Craig vs Daniel Craig 5 year, 110 proof Old Pepper. Tonight’s winner is the Old Pepper. Higher proof but drinks below it, with no heat on the back end. Smooth with a little bit of pepper.

Two for Thursday: Sean Connery 12 year, 94 proof Elijah Craig vs Sean Connery 123.7 proof Woodinville. Today’s winner is the Elijah Craig. Leather, smooth, hints of spice and heat but very mild. A nice taste all the way through.

Hey Irish, I had some Baker's 7 last night. Goddamn, that shit was good lol. I'm gonna have some more tonight when some friends come over. Thank you for recommending it to me. Truly appreciated brother

Glad it enjoyed it and stock up on it my friend. In my top 5 for favorite bourbons!

Fresh crack Friday: Good Times Toasted Cherry and Good Times Toast Vanilla

First time experimenting. Poor Man’s Four Grain: 40% WSR, 40% EHT SB, and 20% OWA. Now we play the waiting game for 30 days.

Haven't posted a recent pickup in a while. This is what came in today: Bulleit Single Barrel. Pretty tasty that opens up well with a few drops of water added. Citrus and oranges.

Baker's 7 tonight

Nice! Enjoy it. That's in my top 5.

Cracked open this yute today. Very good. Gonna try to grab another bottle.

Stay puft my friends

It’s only Wednesday and this week already has me feeling like I’m on Death Row

First time trying these

That rug really tied the room together, did it not?

Raising a well deserved glass to this masterpiece that forever changed the horror genre 25 years ago today

Christmas came late but I'm just glad it came at all! Today's haul, all at retail.

What did you taste in that Col. Taylor?

If I could..I would have that rug and know exactly where I would put it.

Sorry DP, don't remember the tasting notes. Just remember it was the last of the 3 that night but the best. Very delicious!

Poor Man's Pappy: 60% OWA, 40% Weller 12, and 30 days. Tried a sample from a friend a few months back and now that I grabbed a backup bottle of the 12 yesterday, finally able to make my own batch.

Haven’t had many Barrell offerings but this pick was a homerun. The finish is definitely more complex than the palate and this is one to sip slowly, savor, and enjoy! Finished in German Ice Wine but it's straight fire.

Could have killed it but took it easy.

I dont always drink whiskey but when I do it typically a Jameson or variation.

Old Friend showed up late one evening to inform me his Mother died.
We killed half the bottle of Middleton he came with.

A good night for us and his mother needed the peace, she was 96 and not in her mind or body.

Sorry to hear about your friends mother DP

Thanks i12

She was amazing, what cook…i never ate Italian food like hers anywhere else.

We would go fishing and bring her the fish and she would prepare a feast for us.
She loved fresh caught fish,

She do an amazing Christmas Eve 7 fishes as well.

Wow, that sounds mouthwatering DP. Hopefully she passed along her recipes to keep the tradition alive?

Yes, so cool of you to think that.

My friend has been going to his mothers house early every Sunday morning for the last 5 years to cook with her and learn, rather than just show up and eat.

He was with me last night and left a full bottle of Jamesons behind , i told him to take it and it was not even popped open last night, I told him i have 5 bottles and he said Ill be back to drink some.

Good guy.

Salud ????

When you can’t decide which will pair better with the movie. Then realize it’s almost 3 hours runtime, so why not both? 2 fresh cracks!

How I spent my Thursday evening

How I started my day today

On a recommendation, just bought some Smokeshead Scotch. I usually stick to Scotch from the Highlands, as Islay Scotches are a little too peaty, but this was recommended by a very reliable source.

Waiting for a chance to grill steaks before I open it up. Love Scotch right before (or with) a great steak.

If you like fine Cognac, I highly recommend Kirkland XO, from Costco. Unlike most other XO Cognacs, which are perhaps 10 years old, this one is a blend of Cognacs that are 12 to 23 years old--and age is everything in Cognacs. Best I've every tasted for less than $50.

Thanks for the recommendation Turnbull

You're welcome, Irishman. If you try it, please post a review.

Will do but I'll be honest, I'm not much of a cognac fan straight up. Whiskey finished in cognac isn't bad.