I am firmly committed to NEVER seeking out allocated products. There are plenty of readily available bourbons and I enjoy enough that allocated products are not ever on my radar. I refuse to pay more than MSRP for any product. I can't deny that allocated products are outstanding but I have had Stagg Jr , Old Fitzgerald and others and, while they are good, I'm not paying their ridiculous prices for them. I cap out at about $60 because there are SO many products under that price point that I enjoy. The good news is that you will never have to compete with me for one of those products.
I was really lucky and managed to show up at a store that was selling Stagg 22b for $60. I arrived just 30 min after they were put on the shelf. Bought 2 bottles and have zero regrets.
I purchased a Widow Jane Decadence based upon this channel's recommendation and LOVED it. In fact, I loved it so much that it's gone! Next time I get one, I won't share it so generously. LOL.
I would urge you to also try Widow Jane Lucky 13, their 13 year old bourbon. I work at a whiskey bar and Lucky 13 is leaps and bounds ahead of Decadence for me!
Bomberger's 2022 declaration is my absolute favorite bottle. I've tried a ton of bottles but no BTAC or Pappy's yet but Bomberger's crushes everything else I've tried. That butterscotch note is just unmatched.
I love shows like this. I've been collecting for a while, and am finally at the point where I need to start deciding if I'm going to re-buy bottles that I've tried.
I watch everything you guys do. It would be great if you would put a list of the bottles you review along with the Heading/Topic somewhere so we can print it out and take to to the store with us. I have pages of notes from your shows but this would be so much better. Thanks for considering this.
Thanks for the great video and for providing some different allocated options. I also appreciate that you guys have the fortitude to tell people not to pay outrageous markups on whiskey. To many whiskey tubers want to skirt this issue by saying " it's your money spend it like you want', while ignoring how that contributes to the crazy prices we see. You guys are a very refreshing change.
Sure, they say not to overspend while they already have these bottles in their inventory 🤷🏻♂️ Bottom line for most of us, we will never be able to buy many of these bottles without overspending. Just an unfortunate fact of life right now.
Prices are high right now but people paying exorbitant prices also drives up prices. I have found and purchased several allocated bottles for srp or $5-15 over srp. Just to name a few of those are Weller 107, a Weller full proof store pick, Bookers, ECB and yes, even Russell's 13 all of which were purchased in the last 6 months or less. Being patient and realizing that I don;t have to have that Elmer T Lee for $399-499 or Blantons for 299. It's a personal choice that I make so I personally don't contribute to the current overvaluation of a consumable. I would prefer bourbon to be more accessible to more people, not just the rich or the resellers. @@deankruse4491
I will now be hunting the widow jane this fall and redwood empire. As a side note my buddy called me Monday from Delaware regarding a bottle of Stagg at $450. Kindly told him he needed to leave the store and not to purchase anything from them.
Glad to see the inclusion of the Sagamore Spirits 8-year rye with those bottles. The 8-year has been one of my favorite bottles this year, but it might be topped by the Jack Daniels single barrel barrel proof rye. Both delicious!
When it was $50, it was worth the chase. Now at $140-$150, I wouldn’t go chasing it too hard. I got mine at $142 retail and I’m not sure it’s worth that price. If you’ve never had it and see it in the wild at retail, definitely pick it up, but wouldn’t put it at the “top” of the list
Those are great prices compared to what I just saw on line $499. These prices are crazy. 10 year is good enough for me at $50 and it should be $35 I got EHT for $70 thought it was great price seeing it upwards of $150, MSRP is $45, still feel ripped off. @@micntr
I like that you talk about some brands/varieties that aren't so mainstream. There have to be some really good bourbons, ryes, whiskeys out there from smaller and/or regional distilleries.
Great list fellas! I'm in one of those states where allocated products are often insanely inflated, plus we have horrid tax (Being a bourbon hound in WA is rough!) Of the list, Stagg is the one I've had the most success getting, but frequently I consider a bottle at 150 (after all taxes) acceptable just because I have never been let down by a bottle and I make them last. For reference, WA state has taxes at all three levels is the distribution chain, then we as the customer pay a liter tax ($3 currently) plus 20.5% sales tax on liquor. I recently got my first bottle of Bombergers and man, it might be the best bottle I've had this year, it has the most fantastic blackberry jam note to me, especially on the nose! Then you get all the wonderful flavor bits from Michter's oak and traditional bourbon goodness.
Still Austin is the best Texas Whiskey period. Cask Strength and the Red Corn Bourbon BIB are fantastic. I just found and picked up a Single Barrel Store Pick a few days ago. I have Stagg batches 15, 18, 22B, 2 bottles of 22A and 2 bottles of 23A. Will pick them up anytime I find them for a reasonable price. Love the new New Riff Heirloom Corn Bourbons…Blue Clarage and Yellow Leaming. 🥃
I guess having 1 out of 10 is a start for me😂. Can't wait to see the ones to pass on, but this would be an incredible lineup for anyone coming down for a drink! Cheers and keep up the great videos.
I only have two, and they are both hitters! (Stagg and Sagamore 8yr). I've had a Still Austin bottle before and it was good, didn't really care for the Russell's 13 I tried. Had a russells single barrel store pick that I thought was better.
Great video again. Redwood has great stuff. I'm probably a sucker but I still grab each Booker's release as used to drink with my Dad so holds a sentimental value. Given KC9 has been way better than many recent releases (IMHO) for one third the price I may reconsider.
I am unfortunately a resident of northern NJ. I have been on my Bourbon Journey for 15 years now. Over the past few years the Bourbon sections of even the biggest stores have shrunk by 2/3. I used to be able to find Stagg Jr. for around $50 but now, if even available, it is $300. I was mulling over the Redwood Empire BIB the other day but couldn't pull the trigger @ $110 when I can still find some great BIBs in the $20-$30 range and the amazing Barrell releases can be found on sale for around $70.
I 100% agree on the Jack Daniel’s Limited Releases. I no longer care what the reviews are, I’ll buy them and try them myself. After Fred tasting the twice barrelled and saying “blah” I passed on one when I had the opportunity, at MSRP. Tried it later and really regret passing on it. Loved it.
8:38 I don't buy whisky because of the bottle, but if I did, the Four Roses small batch and single barrel would be at the top of the list. 🙂 12:06 I came very near buying my first Sagamore Spirit yesterday (an ordinary shelf bottle), but saw Old Grand-Dad 114 on the shelf for the first time in two years, and had to grab it. It turns out it's very good stuff, too. 🙂 15:02 Knob Creek single barrel - absolutely. The standard 9 year is my second favorite bourbon, and the only reason the single barrel isn't is that it's outside what I can usually afford. I have a store pick that I scraped up the money to buy, and it's *superb* .
From MN here, i work for a distributor up here and help stock total wines and recently saw a couple drops of the bombergers and shenks. Was really curious to try it but i could not justify a price of $135-$150
Great selection! Redwood Empire Grizzly Beast is my new favorite. I feel I have a fairly good selection, but I go to it often. Getting a little hard to find around here though. I have one full bottle and maybe a couple of pours in the other.
I'm looking forward to getting a Widow Jane Decadence this year. I started my Bourbon journey too late last year and was not able to get one. Great Video. 🎉🎉
I'd love to get a Penelope Rio. Saw 2 at a local store but was selling for over 300.00. Another I tend to grab is Blantons SB and ER. Love your show guys keep it up
Widow Jane Decadence is 10/10!! This is probably my second favorite bourbon of all... I was so happy to accidentally aquire two bottles, at retail! Very good bourbon!
My first good pour was a eagle rare havnt had it since but im 8 bottles into my collection now and its awesome still chansing my perfect pour for a reasonable price old forester 1910 and 1792 are my tops for cheap but hit almost all the pieces im looking for 4 roses too yum
The Sagamore Maple Syrup release was a store pick to only 2 or 3 stores. It wasn’t even a distillery release. A friend is muling one from Massachusetts. I’m sure it will be great.
I am not familiar with a lot of these. I would for sure grab the Stagg, New Riff, Four Roses limited edition, and JD products mostly because I am really familiar with those distilleries. I would also more than likely grab the RR13 because I have the RR10 going now and that is a great product for the price. You have what I consider to be somewhat expensive bourbons. I would for sure grab Buffalo Trace, Eagle Rare, and Blanton's whenever I see them at retail.
@slbdrinks, my unicorn bottle is Old Fitzgerald. I am a big Heaven Hill fan and think the decanter bottle is cool- one would be the crown jewel of my bourbon collection. I have seen one bottle for sale in New England- for $955! Obviously I passed. But like you said in this video, avoid the stores that upcharge that much. How much is a reasonable price to you for a decanter of Old Fitz? Thanks for the great video, love all your content!
The bottle I always look for up here in Washington state in the fall is Midwinter's Night Dram. They raised the price this year a good chunk, which I don't love, but the pour is very good! Still on the lookout for RR13.. it has been elusive but I'm working on it!
Agree with your picks! I had a chance to buy the Shenk's and Bomberger's for $150 ea. I passed. I suffer from High bourbon price fatigue. I would have payed $120 ea though
This year's FRLESB is open now for lottery draw entry and is $199 MSRP. Not bad in this market unfortunately considering its 35% 12 year, 40% 14 year, 20% 16 year, and 5% 25 year.
I'll have to try the bottled in bond Redwood...I have the regular Pipedream and I was not a fan at all, added a couple drops of water and it made it a little better but I won't be buying it again
I have the 2022 Four Roses LE and I love that bottle! I really hope I can get my hands on the 2023 bottle as its the 135th anniversary with whiskey up to 25 years old in the blend!
Still need to find me a Stagg. Always walked out of stores (sorry, museums) that had them 300+. One I will never pass up are the Bookers releases. Love the heavy Jim Beam notes it brings out and the gateway bottle to my proof obsession. 🤣
I have never seen a single one of those on a shelf, for any price. For me, I don't know if there is anything that I wouldn't pass on, until 3 months ago, I would have said ECBP, but I passed on B523 for McKenna 10yr and Larcent BP B523, I got both for 10 dollars more than the ECBP. The ECBP might be better than both, but not by enough to justify passing up on both of them. I actually prefer McKenna 10yr to ECBP anyway, so it was a no-brainer for me.
Solid lineup. I buy the same except for the New Riff as I will always gladly accept a pour from friend but it just never hits me as a great and JD since I hate the old #7. I know I have to try Jack's newer stuff. Buddy sent me samples of the JD 10 & 12 as well as a barrel proof but have not brought myself to try them yet (such is the dislike for #7 lol ). This drop I skipped RR13. Got batch 3 four months ago at $70 and 6 weeks ago was batch 4 at $99 just more hype than value for batch 5 at $150. Love the RR13 but not over $110. Very fortunate to have a great store owner, He blinded batch 2-5 for select customers (very fortunate and appreciative to be included) for most of us they tasted very similar and but batch 5 was unanimous in coming in last place. I would pay $200 all day long for batch 1 but it is now getting more of the Buffalo Trace hype than the juice is worth. Was hard to walk away (he had cases) as the collector gene kicked in but did not buy. Glad I have other bottles but unless the bourbon goes back to batch 1 or the price goes down there is better stuff out there. RRSiB store pick will equal or beat RR13. Would make a nice video doing a blind of RR13 vs RRSiB , RRSiB store pick and for gags n giggles RR10. As always great show, thanks guys
Please read the entire label and include small batch or limited release etc. especially for example Four Roses as they have so many different labels. Also please give locations of distilleries etc as this is helpful. Name cities and states at least.
Have you guys tried Boone county 1833? This is one of the first bourbons I tried, that got me into bourbon. Bought it at the distillery, now I can’t get. What bourbon would be close to it, a good replacement. It had notes of honey, caramel, and a long nut finish.
Great picks...will keep an eye out for them. The only "allocated" item I have is Jameson's Crested...and you can only get that gem in Ireland. Hoping to get back out there to grab a couple more of those beauties!!! Cheers!
Great video idea! If we are talking NON “shelf appeal” and for things I truly enjoy sipping on, I would say (1) any Jack Daniels limited release; (2) Frey Ranch single barrels; (3) Smoke Wagon; (4) higher aged Calumet Farm or Sam Houston; (5) Knob Creek; (6) if I ever see a Cream of Kentucky 11.5, 12.3, or 13 year from 2019-2021; (7) Stagg Jr; (8) Russell’s 13 (never got one but tried it many times when I can get pours for a reasonable price); (9) ECBP; (10) Larceny BP.
Most the stories in our state mark up like Stagg around two hundred to three hundred and you won’t find it for msrp so if you want one, you have to fork over. Never seen russels 13 on a shelf … not sure we have that exact redwood - maybe just monarch and one other. Great video though. Difficult to acquire though!
It’s very difficult to create a relationship to get allocated when the state runs every bottle that hits the shelf throughout every store in my state. And every store in my town is a chain besides one and that one never puts out allocated for the every man. And unfortunately they up charge everything at least 10 over retail, even on dumb stuff.
One thing that surprises me is the absence of ECBP. I'll pick up any ECBP at MSRP, especially a Private Barrel. 1792 FP under $50? Absolutely. Rebel 10? Same. I also pick up any Eagle Rare at MSRP to keep a couple bottles in stock for the dry times, or as presents.
I love Four Roses, the Single Barrel stays in my cabinet...always a spare. I tried the Redwood Empire Pipe Dream and love it, awesome sipper. Going to look for Lost Monarch. I really want to try the Still Austin red corn. Can't wait for the live show on Friday 🥃👍👍
such a great list of picks. I have been blessed to try many of these and enjoy them all. Always hunting for some of those I haven't but that is part of the fun. cheers
Haven’t seen a Stagg (Jr) in my state for less than $200 in a few years. And that would be the low end and one nice thing is that I’m only 40 minutes from Sagamore distillery so I can pretty much pick up whatever they put out.
Depending on where you live, paying that might be your only option. That's understandable. I paid 200 for my first couple bottles, now I am scoring them for under 100 consistently. But I am in the TN/KY area. Be patient now that you have one and see if you can get your next ones cheaper. For what its worth to you, 22B has been my favorite batch recently, and I would grade it as comparable to GTS and WLW. Outstanding juice!
Still looking for the four roses and stagg bottles you have here....and if any cask strength Elijah Craig or 1792 bottles ever appear in Ontario Canada I will grab one!
The Four Roses Limited is now a distillery lottery winner only. So you have to be extremely lucky or pay huge money on the secondary. I enter the lottery, but can't pay secondary.
From Northern IN also, I look for a lot of these as well, have picked up 2 Stagg 22B and 1 23A in the last couple weeks all at 52🦌 ea!! Found a RR 13 but haven’t cracked yet, would love to find another one as well!!
I’d love to know where you’re having suck good luck in northern IN…I haven’t seen anything remotely close, lol. I’d love to find a place without the terrible mark up.
That is a beautiful collection of bottles. I have had the chance to try a few of them. I would really like to find the Russell's 13 year sometime. I might have put the Old Forrester Birthday bourbon on the list although it is very hard to find at MSRP.
I got my first Stagg recently for $58 (Total Wine in KY). It's still $50 here in NC, but I've never been able to find one here. I'd like to get a RR 13.
Darn, I had a chance to get a Sagamore(not sure what it was) and I didn't cause I was on the fence. Next time I see one I will get one. Never had any of their stuff before.
Those 4 Roses Limited Release bottles are the top of the mountain right now for me, allocated or not I'm not finding many bottles on par with that one.
I am firmly committed to NEVER seeking out allocated products. There are plenty of readily available bourbons and I enjoy enough that allocated products are not ever on my radar. I refuse to pay more than MSRP for any product. I can't deny that allocated products are outstanding but I have had Stagg Jr , Old Fitzgerald and others and, while they are good, I'm not paying their ridiculous prices for them. I cap out at about $60 because there are SO many products under that price point that I enjoy. The good news is that you will never have to compete with me for one of those products.
I like how rare hits my palate.
Just tried that Still Austin. Also got turned to Blue Note... highly recommended the Blue Note
Just wanted to say you two are my first bourbon TH-cam channel I watched and now I enjoy bourbon with my Facebook group friends thank you
Great show as always! I recently got Shenks for $100, Stagg 22A for $60, and Elmer T Lee at $60. All are fantastic! I never pass up on a E H Taylor.
I was really lucky and managed to show up at a store that was selling Stagg 22b for $60. I arrived just 30 min after they were put on the shelf. Bought 2 bottles and have zero regrets.
I purchased a Widow Jane Decadence based upon this channel's recommendation and LOVED it. In fact, I loved it so much that it's gone! Next time I get one, I won't share it so generously. LOL.
Amen. I too picked up a couple bottles. It's beyond amazing!
I would urge you to also try Widow Jane Lucky 13, their 13 year old bourbon. I work at a whiskey bar and Lucky 13 is leaps and bounds ahead of Decadence for me!
@@sprintz1k will do!!
Nah share it! It ain't fun until we all get some!
Found this channel a few weeks ago and watching daily. Great subjects and fun to watch. Good content and good fun
RR store picks,RR 13, Stagg, Bombergers, & the Bardstown discovery series are all bottles I’ll always hunt.
I’ll second that RR store pick. The one I have is like the 10 year at a higher proof and it’s incredible
No notes! Great list.
My brother got his hands on one of the Redwood Empire Haystack Needle 14 port finished bourbons. Spectacular stuff.
Bomberger's 2022 declaration is my absolute favorite bottle. I've tried a ton of bottles but no BTAC or Pappy's yet but Bomberger's crushes everything else I've tried. That butterscotch note is just unmatched.
Agree. I just got the 2023 Bombergers and it’s actually better than the 2022. Absolutely delicious.
Surprised. I had a bottle of bombergers and it was light and thin to me. Same with Shenks. Not buying again.
We tried a private selection from Maker’s 22’. Maker’s is only 10 minutes from me. It was a fantastic pick. I’ll check and see which release it was.
Ever since watching the last Bourbon Madness, I’ve been sold on the ASW Fiddler Georgia Heartwood.
Love the channel! My go to bourbon is now the Bib and Tucker 6 yr double char! Very nice palate and smooth finish!
I love shows like this. I've been collecting for a while, and am finally at the point where I need to start deciding if I'm going to re-buy bottles that I've tried.
Hope you can find what you are looking for, hunting is getting super hard
I watch everything you guys do. It would be great if you would put a list of the bottles you review along with the Heading/Topic somewhere so we can print it out and take to to the store with us. I have pages of notes from your shows but this would be so much better. Thanks for considering this.
I'll never pass on a MM Wood Finish series. The slight twist on the core flavor is fun.
Thanks for the great video and for providing some different allocated options. I also appreciate that you guys have the fortitude to tell people not to pay outrageous markups on whiskey. To many whiskey tubers want to skirt this issue by saying " it's your money spend it like you want', while ignoring how that contributes to the crazy prices we see. You guys are a very refreshing change.
Sure, they say not to overspend while they already have these bottles in their inventory 🤷🏻♂️ Bottom line for most of us, we will never be able to buy many of these bottles without overspending. Just an unfortunate fact of life right now.
Prices are high right now but people paying exorbitant prices also drives up prices. I have found and purchased several allocated bottles for srp or $5-15 over srp. Just to name a few of those are Weller 107, a Weller full proof store pick, Bookers, ECB and yes, even Russell's 13 all of which were purchased in the last 6 months or less. Being patient and realizing that I don;t have to have that Elmer T Lee for $399-499 or Blantons for 299. It's a personal choice that I make so I personally don't contribute to the current overvaluation of a consumable. I would prefer bourbon to be more accessible to more people, not just the rich or the resellers. @@deankruse4491
I will now be hunting the widow jane this fall and redwood empire. As a side note my buddy called me Monday from Delaware regarding a bottle of Stagg at $450. Kindly told him he needed to leave the store and not to purchase anything from them.
Glad to see the inclusion of the Sagamore Spirits 8-year rye with those bottles. The 8-year has been one of my favorite bottles this year, but it might be topped by the Jack Daniels single barrel barrel proof rye. Both delicious!
My local liquor selling the Stagg for $299.99!! Oh HELL NO! Came back next week later it was SOLD, they know it will sell so they jack up the price!!
Russell's 13 Year is the one I just added to our list to keep an eye out for. Love the 10 Year.
When it was $50, it was worth the chase. Now at $140-$150, I wouldn’t go chasing it too hard. I got mine at $142 retail and I’m not sure it’s worth that price. If you’ve never had it and see it in the wild at retail, definitely pick it up, but wouldn’t put it at the “top” of the list
Those are great prices compared to what I just saw on line $499. These prices are crazy. 10 year is good enough for me at $50 and it should be $35 I got EHT for $70 thought it was great price seeing it upwards of $150, MSRP is $45, still feel ripped off.
@@micntr
I like that you talk about some brands/varieties that aren't so mainstream. There have to be some really good bourbons, ryes, whiskeys out there from smaller and/or regional distilleries.
The last couple of Larceny Barrel Proofs have been surprisingly good. Any wood finishing series Maker's Mark.
Could not agree more.
Great list fellas! I'm in one of those states where allocated products are often insanely inflated, plus we have horrid tax (Being a bourbon hound in WA is rough!) Of the list, Stagg is the one I've had the most success getting, but frequently I consider a bottle at 150 (after all taxes) acceptable just because I have never been let down by a bottle and I make them last. For reference, WA state has taxes at all three levels is the distribution chain, then we as the customer pay a liter tax ($3 currently) plus 20.5% sales tax on liquor. I recently got my first bottle of Bombergers and man, it might be the best bottle I've had this year, it has the most fantastic blackberry jam note to me, especially on the nose! Then you get all the wonderful flavor bits from Michter's oak and traditional bourbon goodness.
New Riff’s single barrel program is also great and are generally about $50 a bottle. We are fortunate to live close by.
Just tried the new riff single barrel rye today for the first time. Holy crap, it’s a definite pickup.
Still Austin is the best Texas Whiskey period. Cask Strength and the Red Corn Bourbon BIB are fantastic. I just found and picked up a Single Barrel Store Pick a few days ago. I have Stagg batches 15, 18, 22B, 2 bottles of 22A and 2 bottles of 23A. Will pick them up anytime I find them for a reasonable price. Love the new New Riff Heirloom Corn Bourbons…Blue Clarage and Yellow Leaming. 🥃
There are a few from the Bardstown Collaboration Series that I love and will not pass on.
I guess having 1 out of 10 is a start for me😂. Can't wait to see the ones to pass on, but this would be an incredible lineup for anyone coming down for a drink! Cheers and keep up the great videos.
I only have two, and they are both hitters! (Stagg and Sagamore 8yr). I've had a Still Austin bottle before and it was good, didn't really care for the Russell's 13 I tried. Had a russells single barrel store pick that I thought was better.
Great job Trenton and Kurt. I agree with all selected, especially the Shenks and Bombergers, and that Redwood Empire. Cheers fellas!
Great video again. Redwood has great stuff. I'm probably a sucker but I still grab each Booker's release as used to drink with my Dad so holds a sentimental value. Given KC9 has been way better than many recent releases (IMHO) for one third the price I may reconsider.
I am unfortunately a resident of northern NJ. I have been on my Bourbon Journey for 15 years now. Over the past few years the Bourbon sections of even the biggest stores have shrunk by 2/3. I used to be able to find Stagg Jr. for around $50 but now, if even available, it is $300. I was mulling over the Redwood Empire BIB the other day but couldn't pull the trigger @ $110 when I can still find some great BIBs in the $20-$30 range and the amazing Barrell releases can be found on sale for around $70.
Russells 13 is either hard to find or sitting on a shelf for $300 plus
I 100% agree on the Jack Daniel’s Limited Releases. I no longer care what the reviews are, I’ll buy them and try them myself. After Fred tasting the twice barrelled and saying “blah” I passed on one when I had the opportunity, at MSRP. Tried it later and really regret passing on it. Loved it.
Sagamore 8 Year Rye was AMAZING. Might be the best rye I’ve ever had
It’s so good. Not an expert in rye or anything but it’s probably my favorite that I’ve had. If I had money money I’d buy a few cases of it.
My current favorite!!
8:38 I don't buy whisky because of the bottle, but if I did, the Four Roses small batch and single barrel would be at the top of the list. 🙂
12:06 I came very near buying my first Sagamore Spirit yesterday (an ordinary shelf bottle), but saw Old Grand-Dad 114 on the shelf for the first time in two years, and had to grab it. It turns out it's very good stuff, too. 🙂
15:02 Knob Creek single barrel - absolutely. The standard 9 year is my second favorite bourbon, and the only reason the single barrel isn't is that it's outside what I can usually afford. I have a store pick that I scraped up the money to buy, and it's *superb* .
From MN here, i work for a distributor up here and help stock total wines and recently saw a couple drops of the bombergers and shenks. Was really curious to try it but i could not justify a price of $135-$150
Great selection! Redwood Empire Grizzly Beast is my new favorite. I feel I have a fairly good selection, but I go to it often. Getting a little hard to find around here though. I have one full bottle and maybe a couple of pours in the other.
I'm looking forward to getting a Widow Jane Decadence this year. I started my Bourbon journey too late last year and was not able to get one. Great Video. 🎉🎉
I'd love to get a Penelope Rio. Saw 2 at a local store but was selling for over 300.00. Another I tend to grab is Blantons SB and ER. Love your show guys keep it up
Widow Jane Decadence is 10/10!! This is probably my second favorite bourbon of all... I was so happy to accidentally aquire two bottles, at retail! Very good bourbon!
Bomburgers is the only bottle I hope to snag each year. Everything else is a bonus amongst the store picks.
My first good pour was a eagle rare havnt had it since but im 8 bottles into my collection now and its awesome still chansing my perfect pour for a reasonable price old forester 1910 and 1792 are my tops for cheap but hit almost all the pieces im looking for 4 roses too yum
On your recommendation, I picked up Redwood Empire Pipe Dream when I saw it this afternoon. 90 Proof and at least 4 years old. $40
The Sagamore Maple Syrup release was a store pick to only 2 or 3 stores. It wasn’t even a distillery release. A friend is muling one from Massachusetts. I’m sure it will be great.
I am not familiar with a lot of these. I would for sure grab the Stagg, New Riff, Four Roses limited edition, and JD products mostly because I am really familiar with those distilleries. I would also more than likely grab the RR13 because I have the RR10 going now and that is a great product for the price.
You have what I consider to be somewhat expensive bourbons. I would for sure grab Buffalo Trace, Eagle Rare, and Blanton's whenever I see them at retail.
@slbdrinks, my unicorn bottle is Old Fitzgerald. I am a big Heaven Hill fan and think the decanter bottle is cool- one would be the crown jewel of my bourbon collection. I have seen one bottle for sale in New England- for $955! Obviously I passed. But like you said in this video, avoid the stores that upcharge that much. How much is a reasonable price to you for a decanter of Old Fitz? Thanks for the great video, love all your content!
The bottle I always look for up here in Washington state in the fall is Midwinter's Night Dram. They raised the price this year a good chunk, which I don't love, but the pour is very good! Still on the lookout for RR13.. it has been elusive but I'm working on it!
I have a batch 6 widow jane decadance, pretty sure they have been releasing these annually already
Agree with your picks! I had a chance to buy the Shenk's and Bomberger's for $150 ea. I passed. I suffer from High bourbon price fatigue. I would have payed $120 ea though
This year's FRLESB is open now for lottery draw entry and is $199 MSRP. Not bad in this market unfortunately considering its 35% 12 year, 40% 14 year, 20% 16 year, and 5% 25 year.
I'll have to try the bottled in bond Redwood...I have the regular Pipedream and I was not a fan at all, added a couple drops of water and it made it a little better but I won't be buying it again
I have the 2022 Four Roses LE and I love that bottle! I really hope I can get my hands on the 2023 bottle as its the 135th anniversary with whiskey up to 25 years old in the blend!
Outstanding as always guys. You lists are amazing. Thank you and keep up the great work.
Still need to find me a Stagg. Always walked out of stores (sorry, museums) that had them 300+. One I will never pass up are the Bookers releases. Love the heavy Jim Beam notes it brings out and the gateway bottle to my proof obsession. 🤣
You need to try the RE haystack needle that is not finished. 14 yr or 15 yr. Both are fantastic !
I have never seen a single one of those on a shelf, for any price. For me, I don't know if there is anything that I wouldn't pass on, until 3 months ago, I would have said ECBP, but I passed on B523 for McKenna 10yr and Larcent BP B523, I got both for 10 dollars more than the ECBP. The ECBP might be better than both, but not by enough to justify passing up on both of them. I actually prefer McKenna 10yr to ECBP anyway, so it was a no-brainer for me.
Solid lineup. I buy the same except for the New Riff as I will always gladly accept a pour from friend but it just never hits me as a great and JD since I hate the old #7. I know I have to try Jack's newer stuff. Buddy sent me samples of the JD 10 & 12 as well as a barrel proof but have not brought myself to try them yet (such is the dislike for #7 lol ).
This drop I skipped RR13. Got batch 3 four months ago at $70 and 6 weeks ago was batch 4 at $99 just more hype than value for batch 5 at $150. Love the RR13 but not over $110.
Very fortunate to have a great store owner, He blinded batch 2-5 for select customers (very fortunate and appreciative to be included) for most of us they tasted very similar and but batch 5 was unanimous in coming in last place. I would pay $200 all day long for batch 1 but it is now getting more of the Buffalo Trace hype than the juice is worth. Was hard to walk away (he had cases) as the collector gene kicked in but did not buy. Glad I have other bottles but unless the bourbon goes back to batch 1 or the price goes down there is better stuff out there. RRSiB store pick will equal or beat RR13.
Would make a nice video doing a blind of RR13 vs RRSiB , RRSiB store pick and for gags n giggles RR10.
As always great show, thanks guys
I hate the bourbon museums selling stuff at 8x’s the price and collecting dust. What a waste.
Please read the entire label and include small batch or limited release etc. especially for example Four Roses as they have so many different labels. Also please give locations of distilleries etc as this is helpful. Name cities and states at least.
Have you guys tried Boone county 1833? This is one of the first bourbons I tried, that got me into bourbon. Bought it at the distillery, now I can’t get. What bourbon would be close to it, a good replacement. It had notes of honey, caramel, and a long nut finish.
Great picks...will keep an eye out for them. The only "allocated" item I have is Jameson's Crested...and you can only get that gem in Ireland. Hoping to get back out there to grab a couple more of those beauties!!! Cheers!
Great video idea! If we are talking NON “shelf appeal” and for things I truly enjoy sipping on, I would say (1) any Jack Daniels limited release; (2) Frey Ranch single barrels; (3) Smoke Wagon; (4) higher aged Calumet Farm or Sam Houston; (5) Knob Creek; (6) if I ever see a Cream of Kentucky 11.5, 12.3, or 13 year from 2019-2021; (7) Stagg Jr; (8) Russell’s 13 (never got one but tried it many times when I can get pours for a reasonable price); (9) ECBP; (10) Larceny BP.
Most the stories in our state mark up like Stagg around two hundred to three hundred and you won’t find it for msrp so if you want one, you have to fork over. Never seen russels 13 on a shelf … not sure we have that exact redwood - maybe just monarch and one other.
Great video though. Difficult to acquire though!
It’s very difficult to create a relationship to get allocated when the state runs every bottle that hits the shelf throughout every store in my state. And every store in my town is a chain besides one and that one never puts out allocated for the every man. And unfortunately they up charge everything at least 10 over retail, even on dumb stuff.
One thing that surprises me is the absence of ECBP. I'll pick up any ECBP at MSRP, especially a Private Barrel. 1792 FP under $50? Absolutely. Rebel 10? Same. I also pick up any Eagle Rare at MSRP to keep a couple bottles in stock for the dry times, or as presents.
Are the Redwood empire LEs? I have never seen those in my area. I love their regular rye.
HHBiB and any old elk single barrels are on my list of buy every time. Love those bottles right now
I got batch four a few months back. It's good but I thought it would be better. Maybe it was just a bad bottle.
My review on the Sagamore maple cask is coming next week and it wasn’t even two states it was two specific stores
I love Four Roses, the Single Barrel stays in my cabinet...always a spare. I tried the Redwood Empire Pipe Dream and love it, awesome sipper. Going to look for Lost Monarch. I really want to try the Still Austin red corn.
Can't wait for the live show on Friday 🥃👍👍
such a great list of picks. I have been blessed to try many of these and enjoy them all. Always hunting for some of those I haven't but that is part of the fun. cheers
Love your channel. I always feel lucky when I find Joeseph Magnus Cigar Blend. Have you ever reviewed this bourbon family?
Haven’t seen a Stagg (Jr) in my state for less than $200 in a few years. And that would be the low end and one nice thing is that I’m only 40 minutes from Sagamore distillery so I can pretty much pick up whatever they put out.
I paid $250 for my Stagg 22B and for a new time thing to be able to try, for me, it was worth picking up.
Fa 8:44
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Depending on where you live, paying that might be your only option. That's understandable. I paid 200 for my first couple bottles, now I am scoring them for under 100 consistently. But I am in the TN/KY area. Be patient now that you have one and see if you can get your next ones cheaper.
For what its worth to you, 22B has been my favorite batch recently, and I would grade it as comparable to GTS and WLW. Outstanding juice!
How much would you pay for the Russell’s 13?
Still looking for the four roses and stagg bottles you have here....and if any cask strength Elijah Craig or 1792 bottles ever appear in Ontario Canada I will grab one!
have a RR13, bought it early last year.... have not opened it yet........................
The Four Roses Limited is now a distillery lottery winner only. So you have to be extremely lucky or pay huge money on the secondary. I enter the lottery, but can't pay secondary.
Great list boys…even if most of these are nearly impossible to find. WJ Decadence is one of my favorite bottles period…just great stuff. Cheers!
Excellent list. I wouldn't pass on any of these either. Unfortunately, I haven't seen a lot of these, but I'm always looking!
Russel’s 13 became 15 for this year. Got that update while doing a tour at the distillery on Friday, May 3rd.
From Northern IN also, I look for a lot of these as well, have picked up 2 Stagg 22B and 1 23A in the last couple weeks all at 52🦌 ea!! Found a RR 13 but haven’t cracked yet, would love to find another one as well!!
I’d love to know where you’re having suck good luck in northern IN…I haven’t seen anything remotely close, lol. I’d love to find a place without the terrible mark up.
That is a beautiful collection of bottles. I have had the chance to try a few of them. I would really like to find the Russell's 13 year sometime. I might have put the Old Forrester Birthday bourbon on the list although it is very hard to find at MSRP.
I don’t think the OF Birthday bourbon is worth the money and I’m a big fan of whiskey row.
I got my first Stagg recently for $58 (Total Wine in KY). It's still $50 here in NC, but I've never been able to find one here. I'd like to get a RR 13.
I will be in Kentucky next week. Should be fun hunting. Already scheduled 3 distillery tours.
Darn, I had a chance to get a Sagamore(not sure what it was) and I didn't cause I was on the fence. Next time I see one I will get one. Never had any of their stuff before.
Have y'all made a video reviewing any of the higher end four roses stuff like the limited releases and single barrel barrel strength?
Awesome video...a wealth of knowledge that you guys are willing to share! Love you guys!
Michters barrel proof rye. I've only tried one poor of it. But I'd love to have a bottle
Really good list. Would you pay $150 for Shenk's or Bonbergers? Asking for a friend.
Those 4 Roses Limited Release bottles are the top of the mountain right now for me, allocated or not I'm not finding many bottles on par with that one.
Have you all had anything from BOUNDARY OAK distillery in Radcliff Kentucky
I have more Jim Beam limited releases than anything else. Can't seem to pass on those. Anything from Old Forester is an automatic buy.
I think the larceny bp are good values
awesome selection!
Phenomenal lineup guys, thank you for sharing. Still trying to get my hands on RR13
Still Austin red corn bottled-in-bond is awesome. Looking forward to their next 3 bottles-in-bonds.
Boys, love you content, have for years.... would love a lux row video... especially with ezra brooks
Four Roses LE is now 199 - They announced their lottery for this year and that is the price from the distillery