Send us a text

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

Add for SOFL

If You Have Gohsts

Support the show

https://www.scotchybourbonboys.com

The Scotchy bourbon Boys are #3 in Feedspots Top 60 whiskey podcasts in the world https://podcast.feedspot.com/whiskey_podcasts/

Send us a text

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!

Add for SOFL

If You Have Gohsts

Support the show

https://www.scotchybourbonboys.com

The Scotchy bourbon Boys are #3 in Feedspots Top 60 whiskey podcasts in the world https://podcast.feedspot.com/whiskey_podcasts/

Send us a text

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.

Add for SOFL

If You Have Gohsts

Support the show

https://www.scotchybourbonboys.com

The Scotchy bourbon Boys are #3 in Feedspots Top 60 whiskey podcasts in the world https://podcast.feedspot.com/whiskey_podcasts/

Send us a text

We take listeners along on our bourbon hunting adventure in Chicago, revealing how the Windy City's whiskey scene differs dramatically from our experiences in Ohio and South Carolina.

• Discovering the density of Chicago's liquor stores – passing 13 stores on one drive to Wrigleyville
• Scoring Weller 12 for $50 at Woodman's during a massive 17-case drop
• Finding allocated bottles readily available at reasonable prices across the city
• Exploring Binny's flagship store, the third-largest liquor store in America
• Enjoying a $50 Pappy flight at Binny's tasting bar with generous 2oz pours
• Visiting Koval Distillery and sampling their unique wheat whiskey
• Meeting with Martin Duffy and experiencing rare scotches at Green Post Restaurant
• Ending our adventure at Delilah's bar with a pour of 2018 George T Stagg
• Forming new friendships through bourbon, including late-night tastings of Eagle Rare 17

Remember to check out our upcoming barrel pick in September and stay tuned for more details on our Crystal Glencairn Club.

When six bourbon enthusiasts descend upon Chicago with rental cars and empty suitcases, magic happens. Our weekend adventure through the Windy City revealed a bourbon hunting paradise unlike anything we'd experienced in our home territories.

Chicago's whiskey landscape stands in stark contrast to the controlled distribution systems of states like Ohio. Where allocated bottles might drop statewide back home, Chicago's liquor stores operate as independent whiskey islands, each with their own treasures waiting to be discovered. On a single drive from our hotel to Wrigleyville for a Cubs game, we counted thirteen different liquor stores – each offering unique selections at surprisingly reasonable prices.

The highlight came at Woodman's, where we stumbled upon a freshly delivered 17-case drop of Weller 12 priced at just under $50 after tax. To put this in perspective, the same store had simultaneously received Weller Full Proof, 1792 Cognac finish, and Buffalo Trace's "Tater Salad" bottles (EH Taylor Small Batch). At Binny's flagship store – the third-largest liquor retailer in America – we indulged in a $50 flight featuring Old Rip Van Winkle 10, Van Winkle Special Reserve 12, and Van Winkle Family Reserve Rye, each poured as generous 2oz servings.

Beyond retail therapy, we explored Koval Distillery's innovative grain experiments, savored rare scotches pulled from the vault at Green Post Restaurant alongside Martin Duffy, and capped our nights with pours of George T. Stagg 2018 at the legendary Delilah's bar. Most precious of all were the friendships formed along the way – from chance encounters in bottle release lines to fireside tastings of Eagle Rare 17 that stretched into the early morning hours.

Whether you're a seasoned bourbon hunter or simply curious about exploring whiskey culture beyond the traditional Kentucky trail, Chicago offers an unexpectedly rich playground for whiskey lovers. Join us at www.scotchiebourbonboys.com or on our social channels to learn more about our adventures and upcoming barrel picks!

Add for SOFL

If You Have Gohsts

Support the show

https://www.scotchybourbonboys.com

The Scotchy bourbon Boys are #3 in Feedspots Top 60 whiskey podcasts in the world https://podcast.feedspot.com/whiskey_podcasts/

Send us a text

Middle West Spirits has emerged as a powerful force in American whiskey, acquiring Old Elk Whiskey and expanding with a massive 75,000 square foot facility that produces 14,000 barrels every three months.

• Founded in 2008 by Ryan Lang with a commitment to Ohio-grown grains and local production
• Recently acquired Colorado-based Old Elk Whiskey to secure its future with a dedicated production facility
• Produces a standout four-grain wheated bourbon featuring dark pumpernickel rye that delivers butterscotch, caramel, and toffee flavors
• Scored an impressive 17/18 in our tasting, rivaling established brands like Booker's and Rare Breed
• Operates one of North America's largest independent distilleries with a grain-to-glass philosophy
• Manages over 25,000 acres of Ohio grain farmland to ensure quality control
• Works with Speyside Bourbon Cooperage in Jackson, Ohio for their barrel needs
• Produces 15 brands including Midwest Bourbon, Rye, and Wheat Whiskeys

Join us at the Kentucky Bourbon Festival and for our next barrel selection - a private Maker's Mark pick on Thursday morning, September 4th at 9am!

The American whiskey landscape is shifting eastward, and Middle West Spirits is leading the charge. In this eye-opening episode, we explore how an Ohio distillery has transformed from a small craft operation into one of North America's largest independent distilleries, culminating in their recent acquisition of Colorado's Old Elk Whiskey.

Ryan Lang founded Middle West Spirits in 2008 with a vision to create a true "Ohio bourbon experience." Unlike many who source ingredients from across the country, Middle West embraces a genuine grain-to-glass philosophy using exclusively Ohio-grown grains and partnering with Speyside Bourbon Cooperage in Jackson for their barrels. This commitment to local terroir is paying dividends as their whiskey gains national recognition.

The star of our tasting was their Michelson Cast Strength Wheated Four-Grain Bourbon (Batch 001), bottled at a robust 122.2 proof. What immediately captivated our panel was its complexity without astringency – delivering notes of butterscotch, caramel, toffee, and what one panelist described as "warm pumpernickel rye bread with butter." The unique four-grain mash bill features non-GMO yellow corn, soft red winter wheat, two-row barley, and dark pumpernickel rye.

During our Old Louisville Barrel Bottle Breakdown, this bourbon scored an impressive 17 out of 18 points, with particular praise for its thick mouthfeel, complex flavor profile, and lingering finish that rivals established barrel-proof bourbons costing significantly more. At approximately $70, it represents exceptional value in today's premium bourbon market.

Middle West's expansion has been nothing short of remarkable. Their new 75,000 square foot facility produces approximately 14,000 barrels every three months, tripling their workforce and managing over 25,000 acres of Ohio grain farmland. With this capacity and their acquisition of Old Elk, Middle West is positioned to become a dominant force in American whiskey production.

Whether you're a bourbon enthusiast looking for the next frontier or simply appreciate craftsmanship and innovation, Middle West Spirits deserves your attention. They're proving that world-class whiskey can come from unexpected places when passion meets commitment to quality and local sourci

Add for SOFL

If You Have Gohsts

Support the show

https://www.scotchybourbonboys.com

The Scotchy bourbon Boys are #3 in Feedspots Top 60 whiskey podcasts in the world https://podcast.feedspot.com/whiskey_podcasts/

Send us a text

Tiny explores how bourbon connects us during life's most meaningful moments, sharing how he honored his wife's uncle Peter with special whiskeys that brought family together in remembrance.

• How bourbon serves as the social glue during celebrations and life transitions
• The special whiskies shared at a Wisconsin memorial service, including Baker's bourbon and JW Dant from 1969
• The way whiskey creates bonds among family members of different generations
• Walter's whiskey farm creates a similar communal experience through tastings in a relaxed setting
• Baker's bourbon history and transition from small batch to single barrel expressions
• Complete tasting notes and comparison between original Baker's and the new High Rye Limited Edition
• The perfect 18/18 rating for Baker's High Rye on the Old Louisville Whiskey Company barrel bottle breakdown
• Upcoming Scotchy Bourbon Boys events including the Crystal Glen Cairn Club tasting and a Maker's Mark private selection with Rob Samuels
• Next podcast featuring Dan Garrison discussing Garrison Brothers Guadalupe bourbon

Remember good bourbon equals good times and good friends. Drink responsibly and live your life uncut and unfiltered.

What makes a bottle of bourbon truly special? It's not just what's inside—it's the moments it helps us create and the connections it fosters. In this heartfelt exploration of whiskey's role in life's meaningful transitions, Tiny shares how bourbon brought his family together during a memorial service for his wife's uncle Peter, creating lasting bonds through shared pours of rare bottles like JW Dant from 1969 and May Day Rye.

The spotlight then turns to Baker's High Rye Limited Edition, a fascinating twist on the classic expression. This single barrel, 7-year 9-month bourbon delivers an impressive flavor transformation while maintaining the brand's signature smooth, slick mouthfeel. Through a meticulous tasting, Tiny reveals why this 107-proof special release earns a perfect 18/18 score on the Old Louisville Whiskey Company barrel bottle breakdown—with its intense cherry candy nose, cinnamon-apple palate, and exceptionally long holiday spice finish that outperforms even the beloved original Baker's.

Bourbon enthusiasts will appreciate the detailed side-by-side comparison between the high rye expression and the traditional Baker's, highlighting how rye content transforms the whiskey while preserving its essential character. We also get exciting announcements about upcoming events including the exclusive Crystal Glen Cairn Club tasting in August and a Maker's Mark private barrel selection with Rob Samuels on September 4th, plus a preview of next week's special episode featuring Dan Garrison discussing Garrison Brothers Guadalupe bourbon.

Whether you're a longtime bourbon aficionado or just beginning your whiskey journey, this episode reminds us that great bourbon creates not just memorable flavors, but meaningful connections. Which special bottle will mark your next important life moment?

Add for SOFL

If You Have Gohsts

Support the show

https://www.scotchybourbonboys.com

The Scotchy bourbon Boys are #3 in Feedspots Top 60 whiskey podcasts in the world https://podcast.feedspot.com/whiskey_podcasts/

Send us a text

We celebrate our 500th podcast episode with special guests Greg Schneider, Super Nash, Nobs, The Whiskey Doctor, Whiskey, and Bourbon Annie, reflecting on our journey from skeptical whiskey beginners to respected voices in the bourbon community.

• Began with Tiny and Young Nose in 2018 when they couldn't believe bourbon could taste like crème brûlée
• First recorded podcast featured Larceny bourbon after an initial 45-minute recording was lost
• Super Nash joined on episode 6, flying from South Carolina with Blanton's Gold and 1994 Booker's
• Greg Schneider's mentorship opened doors to distilleries and rare tastings like the Chicken Cock 15 Year
• Ann from OHLQ connected them with Ohio's whiskey scene and helped facilitate barrel picks
• The Whiskey Doctor brings global whiskey knowledge with the new "Whiskey Without Borders" segment
• Aaron Harris shares upcoming Green River releases and OHLQ exclusive picks
• Now ranked 16th best bourbon podcast and 3rd best overall whiskey podcast
• Expanded from audio-only to video, from one episode weekly to multiple formats

Remember, good bourbon equals good times and good friends. Make sure you don't drink and drive, and live your life uncut and unfiltered.

Five hundred episodes in the making, this milestone celebration brings together the extended Scotchy Bourbon Boys family to reflect on an incredible journey that began with simple skepticism about whiskey tasting notes in 2018. What started as two friends wondering how bourbon could possibly taste like crème brûlée has evolved into a whiskey community powerhouse, now ranked as the 16th best bourbon podcast globally and 3rd among all whiskey podcasts.

The chemistry between hosts and guests sparkles as they share origin stories and pivotal moments. Super Nash recounts flying from South Carolina to Ohio in December 2019 after feeling an immediate brotherhood with Tiny, bringing rare bottles including Blanton's Gold and a 1994 Booker's as his initiation offering. Greg Schneider, with 47+ years in the industry, reveals how the Scotchy Bourbon Boys captured his attention and have since become ambassadors for authentic whiskey appreciation.

Throughout the conversation, unexpected anecdotes bring laughter and insight – from Tiny's wife Roxy initially questioning whiskey's appeal to The Whiskey Doctor meeting Super Nash while camping out for a Heaven Hill release. Each story reinforces the podcast's underlying philosophy: while whiskey may be the glue, the real value lies in the friendships formed around it.

Master Distiller Aaron Harris from Green River makes a special appearance, teasing upcoming releases and exclusive Ohio picks, highlighting how the podcast has transcended from simple tastings to becoming an influential platform within the industry. Future plans reveal exciting developments, including a "Whiskey Without Borders" segment exploring global expressions from Israel, Australia, and beyond.

Whether you're a longtime listener or discovering the show for the first time, this episode perfectly captures why the Scotchy Bourbon Boys have found such resonance - their genuine passion for not just the spirit in the glass, but the people and stories behind it. Ready to join this whiskey family? Subscribe now and become part of a journey that's 500 episodes strong and still expanding with every pour.

Add for SOFL

If You Have Gohsts

Support the show

https://www.scotchybourbonboys.com

The Scotchy bourbon Boys are #3 in Feedspots Top 60 whiskey podcasts in the world https://podcast.feedspot.com/whiskey_podcasts/

Send us a text

A backyard pond, fresh catfish, and bourbon that tastes like pomegranate? The latest Booker's release "By the Pond Batch" delivers an unexpected twist in the iconic barrel-strength bourbon lineup.

Picking up this treasure at the Jim Beam distillery during a bourbon-packed Kentucky weekend, I couldn't wait to crack open batch 2025-02 and share my thoughts. Coming in at a robust 126.5 proof and aged 7 years, 1 month, and 20 days, this release honors the special place where Fred Noe's father would spend peaceful Kentucky afternoons - his beloved backyard pond where he raised catfish and bluegills for family suppers.

What makes this batch truly remarkable is its deceptive simplicity. The nose offers familiar vanilla, oak, and classic Beam peanut notes, but doesn't hint at the flavor explosion waiting on your palate. The first sip delivers an immediate butterscotch sweetness that transforms into leather before finishing with what can only be described as pomegranate - a tasting note I've never encountered in bourbon before. Complex, surprising, and utterly delicious, this isn't your average Booker's release.

The bottle earns a solid 15/18 on our Old Louisville Barrel Bottle Breakdown scale, with perfect scores for body and finish. While the retail price remains around $99, the experience is priceless for true bourbon enthusiasts. If you're lucky enough to find a bottle, grab it immediately - this special batch won't sit on shelves long.

Whether you're a longtime Booker's collector or new to barrel-strength bourbon, "By the Pond Batch" demonstrates why this expression remains the gold standard for uncut, unfiltered whiskey. Have you tried it yet? Let us know what unexpected flavors you discovered in your glass!

Fred Noe's second Booker's release of 2025, "By the Pond Batch," pays tribute to his father's beloved backyard pond where Booker found peace while raising catfish and bluegills for family suppers.

• Booker's 2025-02 "By the Pond Batch" comes in at 126.5 proof, aged 7 years, 1 month, 20 days
• Jim Beam's traditional mash bill of 77% corn, 13% rye, and 10% malted barley
• Barrels selected from 8 different warehouses to create a complex flavor profile
• Master Distiller Fred Noe was inspired by his father's pond, which evolved from a fishing spot to a place of reflection
• Tasting notes include butterscotch sweetness, leather middle, and a unique pomegranate finish
• Barrels were selected during an unusually wet spring in Kentucky with record rainfall
• The bottle received a 15/18 on the Old Louisville Barrel Bottle Breakdown scale

Live your life uncut and unfiltered, remember to drink responsibly, and never drink and drive.

Add for SOFL

If You Have Gohsts

Support the show

https://www.scotchybourbonboys.com

The Scotchy bourbon Boys are #3 in Feedspots Top 60 whiskey podcasts in the world https://podcast.feedspot.com/whiskey_podcasts/