My favorite whiskey channel! No repetitive opening and no long, boring, unnecessary B-rolls. Just concise, useful information along with a explanation of why a bourbon is loved or just tolerated. You boys rock!
High proof whiskies can definitely be tamed with ice and make them more approachable. One recommendation I have is that once the whiskey gets cold enough for you, remove the ice and this prevents it from getting too watered down.
I used to keep a bottle of 100 proof Stoli in the freezer for a morning pull before I went to work...at the bar I ran....yikes. Your idea is excellent!
This has definitely become one of my favorite whisky stations, you guys are knowledgeable and the show is great. I have learned so stuff too, which is always good, plus it always looks like you’re having a great time! Norm
I definitely agree with your comments as far as drink it how you enjoy it…neat, ice,coke, Ginger ale, seven up….I will say with any knob Creek expression, I think over a cube of ice is the way to go to enjoy the best flavors…… have a great weekend all bourbon drinkers
Thanks!! You guys are simply the best. Enjoy your show a ton. Love that you do scotch and bourbon and sour mash whisky, and cocktails, and rye whisky and on ice or neat, etc. Keep it coming! Also, your show is popular because you and your son are a lot of fun. Friendly tension!! Good people.
Hi there from Ukraine 🇺🇦 Love you blog, the vibe, the content. Great stuff! Not soon enough, I've started to deep in the bourbon. I enjoy learning and developing my knowledge about the tastes and the experience of choosing the RIGHT bourbon. Thanks so much! Keep going 🙌
@@slbdrinks thanks for your support 🙌 how about making a video about the sherry cask finish with single malts? There's some great stuff, I should say. This week I've bought a bottle of Tamnavulin Sherry Cask edition. Oh, that's really fantastic nose and fruity taste 👌🤩
I typically only drink 100 proof and up on ice. It depends in the flavor profile. I like the temp change as having a cool liquid to sip on to me is more soothing than room temp. Only thing I don't like about ice is that you have to drink much quicker than neat. So I feel the process can be rushed. Adding a tiny bit of water and maybe using whiskey stones in tandem with water drops is the new method.
You guys are awesome and I am so glad I found your channel. thanks for all the education on bourbon for a newbie. You do talk a lot about Trenton's collection. You should do a special show one day from his place/bar. Keep up the great work and congrats on the 100K.
I drink almost everything neat, but I use a big rock occasionally when it’s hot outside or to experiment with flavor enhancement. I really like Woodford Double Oaked with a block of ice to tone-down the smoke and it enhances the flavor. I like Rare Breed neat or with a block because it’s always fantastic. WT101 always neat.
“Don’t ever let anybody tell you that you’re doing it wrong.” That’s why I respect you guys. Just honest and knowledgeable opinions with NO hoity toity arrogance.
Some great bottles up there! I definitely agree with Trenton about the Benchmark Full Proof. That stuff is great! We recently had a single blind tasting (8 of us) with Bardstown Discovery #7, Four Roses OBSK Store Pick Barrel Proof, High West American Prairie Store Pick Barrel Proof, Old Elk Wheated Store Pick Barrel Proof, Ezra Brooks Store Pick Cask Strength, and Benchmark Full Proof. Benchmark Full Proof came in second unanimously! What a great value bottle that I will make sure to keep on my shelf.
Really, really interesting. I never drank any of my bourbons over ice until I heard Kurt say he enjoyed Rare Breed over a block. I tried it, and I wholeheartedly agree. Since then, I've tried a few others. Recently, I was gifted a 100 proof bottle that I didn't really care for. It sat on my shelf until I decided to try it with a block of ice. It made so much difference, rounding out the harsh edges and bringing out some sweetness. I was glad to finally be able to get some love out of that bottle. Thanks again for a great topic, guys!
Thanks Holly! One can’t be afraid to experiment a little bit now and than. IMO so many whiskey drinkers paint themselves into a corner of having to drink whiskey “correctly” that unfortunately they miss out on discovering so many other fantastic options!
A large cube is critical imho for drinking whiskey over ice. Smaller cubes just dilute to quickly - really appreciate that you used your larger cubes in this presentation
Love the channel. I restarted my bourbon journey in December 2022. I currently drink all my bourbon in a rocks glass with a round ice cube. I have purchased some glencairn glasses and started trying to smell notes and taste flavors. Unfortunately, all I can smell is alcohol. I know it will take some time to develop the ability to distinguish the notes and flavors. Love the blinds and recommendations. 🥃
I HAVE STARTED DOING ON THE REGULAR NOW!!! When I don't want to take the time for a cocktail I have a large block ice cube that barely fits in my Rock Glass and I pour. Generally Bulleit or Knob Creek but definitely a higher proof. Thanks guys again!!!!
I'm not too far off Kurt although I'm probably more @ 85%. Since I tend to try and be outside since I'll often have a cigar....in the Summertime, if it's hot, I may very well drop some ice in just to make the drink a tad more 'refreshing'. I also tend to drink other spirits more in the Summer.
Interesting. Just poured me an EC Single Barrel Barrel Proof Store Pick, 132.2 proof, neat, before I started this video. First sip was amazing! As I sipped my way thru that pour, the heat became more prevalent. Now here after dinner, I poured a JD Special Reserve Single Barrel, Barrel Proof Rye at 132.1. It is marvelous and not bringing the heat. I am like you, Kurt, and like my whiskies in that 100 to 115 range. I wish I could find more Irish knocking on that door. Keep sharing!
There is an Irish Whiskey app that helps decipher what is out there. Midleton Distillery, in their Redbreast brand, has a number of whiskeys in the 100+ range. One that I just heard about was Redbreast aged in Kentucky oak at 101. I would like to find that one!
Isn't it amazing and interesting how ice affects whiskies differently? Brings out flavors, tames down flavors, adds sweetness, adds oak, etc....great video!
Another great video. I love watching just Kurt but getting Trenton on camera is great too. I am a proof fan. Never found Coy Hill. My preference on ice is scotch. I like Aberlour A’bunadh, Glen Allachie and Amarut. All non pealed barrel strength pours. All paired with a Maduro cigar.
I only recently started enjoying my bourbon or scotch on ice or with club soda. One point I differ on. It does not have to be a high proof for me. I really enjoy Benchmark 8 or Ancient Age on ice. Some of the lower proof bottom shelf whiskies have good character but a harsh trait. The ice takes out the harshness and the base flavors bloom.
Instead of adding ice, i use an eye dropper or pipette of water. Jus a couple drops. Ice can water it down too much, but w an eye dropper or pipette you can slowly drop by drop right where you want it wo watering down too much. I dont always do it to take the heat off or reduce the bite, but jus a couple drops of water can really open up a whiskey. Try it instead of ice next time. Especially on the ones the ice watered it down too much
We get bagged ice in small chips rather than cubes. Usually, 100 gets one small chip, 110 gets 2 small chips, anything hotter gets 3-4 chips. Calms things out and also opens up the bourbon, for me I think the sweet spot is about 95 proof.
Fun and interesting video. I'm like Kurt, in that I like my whiskey neat about 95% of the time. If I'm sitting outside on a hot summer night, I will drink my whiskey over a block of ice. I do like Makers Mark Cask Strength over a block of ice too. Will have to try the Rare Breed on a block as I've only done that neat, but love it. Thanks!
Is it Trent or Trenton? I’m never certain and feel weird saying it wrong. In any case, with his participation, your channel is rapidly becoming one of my favorites! The content just keeps getting better and I really love that it’s a family affair. I drink my whiskey neat 95%+ of the time, but occasionally enjoy a little ice. When I do, I use a small Yeti to slow the melting process and avoid the “sweating” glass making a mess everywhere. And, of course, I only use cubes made with quality, filtered water.
@@slbdrinks thanks! There’s nothing worse than mispronouncing someone’s name. Now I know they’re interchangeable. Regardless, you’ve raised a fine young man with, what seems to me, a VERY refined palate. And I just love the family dynamic. Kudos to you all!
The reigning GOAT of whiskey reviews in my opinion. And that's saying a lot, there's really good channels on YT. Keep up the good work 💫 hope I can interview you one day
Great video pals. The KC 120 is one of my fav's neat. The JD is indeed hot but I still prefer neat. The Benchmark, even though less proof then some of the others, is just too hot and sweet. I want to like it more due to price point, but just not my jam. Rare Breed I've had but can't remember profile :( . Never have and most likely never will find the Coy Hill (although I'd love to). However, KC 120 and the JD SB CS are fantastic.
Good video for early morning drop. Easier to start drinking before noon over ice. Would like to compare Jack at normal proof compared to the 140 over ice
Great lineup! Cat’s out of the bag now. Benchmark FP at $25! Same mashbill as Stagg! Coy hill is wonderful, especially on ice w/coke hehe. I have found that you want to let cubes or balls melt for a minute or so in the glass to prevent cracking. Cracking can actually take away from the flavor and cause faster melting. Gotta make sure you use purified water for ice as well!
Another awesome video! I’m a mostly a neat guy too but one thing I’ve done to give more choices for how much ice I use or guests use in their bourbon is to fill some of the ice cube molds 1/3 to half full and others full so people can choose how much ice (water) they want! You guys rock! Pun intended…
Every bourbon I have the opportunity to, I try neat, then add Ice, then add coke or diet coke personally I have found many bourbons that change flavor dramatically. for better or for worse, it all depends on the bourbon itself. I fully agree I typically prefer high-proof bourbons with Ice and lower-proof neat. P.S. got my SLB Bourbon in today, Its amazing
Kurt said he never drinks single malts on ice, and in general I would agree. But there are a couple of high proof scotches that I have found to be amazing on ice, specially Highland Park Cask Strength and Aberlour A’Bunadh, both of which are in the 61%-64% ABV.
I've found that, for all varieties of whiskies, some ice or in the case of a Single Malt Scotch, a "wee drip of spring water" generally will "open up" the flavor profile and in many cases make for a more pleasurable imbibing experience. But not for everything, as you mention. For the better, higher proof whiskies, it sort of "decompresses" the flavors... like slowing a recording down to hear all the notes in a passage rather than everything all mashed together. YMMV.
Tried the Benchmark straight up and it was like rocket fuel! Actually choked a bit, but then put it over a chunk of ice and let it mellow a bit and it was really good. Trying the Bonded Bottle tonight, 100 proof, and it is not bad at all and pretty inexpensive! This is definitely a sleeper bourbon!
I think that each whiskey interacts with wood differently and likely has different water soluble components that leech into the whiskey to give it its unique flavors. These water soluble compounds will be dissolved in water moreso for some whiskeys than others. Ones that get their flavor from less soluble compounds don't lose as much flavor but have it enhanced.
Some higher proof bourbons or rye are a little spiky for me neat, so I'll try them neat first and then put them over ice. I think I'm right with you, Kurt. Scotch, Irish, Japanese, etc. and lower-proof bourbon and rye, I drink neat now (wasn't always able to).
When it's 100 degrees for 3 months higher proof Whiskey over ice can come in handy. But with summer and ice I'd rather have a Whiskey drink like old fashioned or mint julep vs just Whiskey over ice.
Love the videos, and especially this topic of bourbon over ice. I’m probably 75/25 neat/ice, and would highly recommend you try Chattanooga 111 over the large block of ice. It tends to run hot as a neat pour, but over ice it feels just right. Cheers!
I was shocked to try the Still Austin Cask Strength over ice and it really enhanced the flavor and somehow also seemed hotter over ice than neat. Give it a try. There’s actually a few scotches that seem to enhance the flavor - even at ~86 proof. I think the last one I had that way was Glendronach 12. It’s worth a try.
Good morning, I just wanted to say that I really enjoy your channel. Very informative and I have tried a lot of the whiskies that you've shown. As far as the Benchmark Full Proof, I really like it and had to go back and get two more. Love the information and the show.
I like a splash of cold seltzer on top of a standard bar shot for most bourbons but like one of you pointed out the different bourbons react to water or seltzer in a different way...keeps it all interesting !
I have never met a bourbon or whisky that I don't prefer over ice. I've stopped fighting it, that's just how I enjoy it. Don't care what the snobs say.
Right there with you. Loved watching a colleague’s face blanch as I added a chip or two to a glass of Pappys 15. For me, it changed it from way-too-hot to “damn, this is a delicious whisky”.
The wild turkey rare breed I get a oak note on ice neat more brown sugar sweetness I have a march 2022 release of Jack Daniels single barrel barrel proof it's caramel, brown sugar with heat of the proof neat(134 proof) on ice oak notes then toffee excellent review as always slb drinks 👍
fun video, I drink my gin, tequila, rum on the rocks but i like my whiskies neat. I would think you loose the oil/viscosity feel once it's over ice? At least that's what i notice when having an old fashioned, granted that's much more diluted then what you're doing. Also great line up, you have basically my favorite bottles out there (with exception to Benchmark since i've never had it). I would love to find Coy hill in store one day.
In the single malt world, ice is considered a nose killer. Besides adding ice, you all should sample with just adding a bit of water. That's often the happy medium between neat and on the rocks. You can also control the dilution much better with adding drops of water.
Only high rye or spicy bourbons do well for me on ice. 4 roses SB is a good one on ice. Brings out that floral note. As always, thanks for the great content! Can't wait for the Benchmark to hit the midwest.
I enjoy some neat and some with a Rock. Sometimes not very often I add a touch of Ginger Ale. Better with high proof Rye. Give it a shot. Would love to see Trent and your Thoughts. Blessings from Gettysburg Pa….
I have that JD barrel proof and Rare Breed and can drink them both neat...but that Full Proof Benchmark...wow...I drank some recently and after the first two sips I was ok...but all of a sudden the heartburn that came on was horrible.
I'm newer to whiskey but I feel the 100+ proofers and high rye boys hold up best to ice. Some of the sweet lower proofs just fall apart with the added water.
Had an acquaintance keep some plain ole Woodford in the freezer. He poured me some and I kinda gave him a half smile but in my mind I’m shaking my head. Hell it was good… and not watered down. Haha. I don’t put any of my stuff in the freezer but it can work sometimes I guess.
There are two things going on here. First is the sweetness, our ability to detect and our preference for it. Second is alcohol content, the burn and our ability to detect the burn. So it's both complicated and simple at the same time. For me, with bourbon or rye I like a little bit of ice (one big cube or a small amount of smaller ones). Bourbon is a fairly sweet fully-converted liquor. Cooling off the bourbon tones the sweetness just a touch (into my range of a nice level of sweetness detection - others may vary on this). And then the dilution cuts the burn of the alcohol for me - again into my acceptable range (again - others vary and may be able to handle more burn and it tastes fine to them). For scotch on the other hand, I don't do ice (scotch is less sweet than bourbon) and just a few water drops to open it up (I like the wider range of scents and flavors this brings out). One of my favorite scotches - Aberlour A'bunah - I drink 1 shot to half a shot of water because it is cask strength and this brings it into optimal flavor profile for me (vs being delicious but overpowering on alcohol bite). It's an individual thing, it's complicated in some ways, and it may change for you over the years (it has with me). So Kurt is right - drink it like you like it!
I’m a beginner to bourbon, so I drink it on ice, I still taste it pretty good, the friend who got me into bourbon drinks it neat, I’ll get there one day.
I am learning so much watching your videos, I already watched the crystal clear Ice video so I am going to try that at home....and one question. What do you think about a bottle of Calumet, I believe the bottle I had was the 12 year old and it was at the time I drank it I think twelves years old from the bottling time. So 24 year old Calumet...Just your thoughts
The Whiskey Advocate website has a proofing calculator. If you like your whiskey at a certain proof, it will calculate how much water to add to a higher proof whiskey to get it to the proof you like.
Drink mine the only way bourbon should be drank...... NEAT!!!! I want to be able to smell and taste the bourbon in its original form. Don't get me wrong, a shot or two of bourbon mixed in lemonade is mighty fine but it can't beat it neat.
That's a good question, whether this is more about dilution, temperature or perhaps both? Then there's always the choice of those whiskey stones which are ice substitutes to avoid dilution and just cool something down.
I would like to see you test whiskeys you like over ice compared to the same whiskey refrigerated to 30-32 degrees. How much does the chilling do to relieve the pallet vs. the changes a bit of cold water is essentially performing on the whiskey.
I don't think you have done a full Benchmark line up yet so that might be a good one for you, they seem to have upped the quality of the brand. The bonded has gotten some praise and I just ordered a bottle, looking forward to giving it a go
Appreciate the idea! We will actually be starting a Buffalo Trace in depth distillery review very soon. To big for one show so actually starting with the full Benchmark lineup. Finally collected the last bottle I needed, bonded.
Do you have a video on the Longhorn store pick? I have a bottle like that and would be curious to see if it's the same 14yr old that you mentioned. Great vid!
I did pick up an Elijah Craig single barrel that was a little over 130 proof and boy that was a spicy meatball - had to start with over a block of ice on that one as well
I picked up a bottle of the benchmark full proof because a couple people in a group I’m in said it was basically a stag jr junior and I was very impressed for it to be a $22 bottle
My favorite whiskey channel! No repetitive opening and no long, boring, unnecessary B-rolls. Just concise, useful information along with a explanation of why a bourbon is loved or just tolerated. You boys rock!
true I hate channels with long and usually loud intros
Totally agree and all their videos come at you from a bourbon enthusiast point of view and not a bourbon snob point of view!
Really appreciate that! We strive to be just one of the guys because in reality that’s truly what we are! Wouldn’t have it any other way!
Couldn’t have said any better 👌🏼. Channel ROCKS 🤘🏼
Had some WT101 in my golf bag all summer. Shared it with three guys. Man did that taste good…..warm!
Holy cow lol!!
Neat first is always the best way to go, completely agree!
High proof whiskies can definitely be tamed with ice and make them more approachable. One recommendation I have is that once the whiskey gets cold enough for you, remove the ice and this prevents it from getting too watered down.
I used to keep a bottle of 100 proof Stoli in the freezer for a morning pull before I went to work...at the bar I ran....yikes.
Your idea is excellent!
Or drink it faster
Perfect! Good call!
I use an eye dropped or pipette. Allows you to control how much water is used wo addin too much.
How about using a non water cube to chill, that should be the next show. Those silver cubes that you freeze
This has definitely become one of my favorite whisky stations, you guys are knowledgeable and the show is great.
I have learned so stuff too, which is always good, plus it always looks like you’re having a great time!
Norm
Sorry I should have checked my statement before I sent it, I’ve learned some stuff, hopefully you’ll know what I meant.
Norm
I absolutely did and thanks so much Norm!
I definitely agree with your comments as far as drink it how you enjoy it…neat, ice,coke, Ginger ale, seven up….I will say with any knob Creek expression, I think over a cube of ice is the way to go to enjoy the best flavors…… have a great weekend all bourbon drinkers
Thank you!
Old Grand Dad 114 works like a charm over ice.
Perfect example!
Thanks!! You guys are simply the best. Enjoy your show a ton. Love that you do scotch and bourbon and sour mash whisky, and cocktails, and rye whisky and on ice or neat, etc. Keep it coming! Also, your show is popular because you and your son are a lot of fun. Friendly tension!! Good people.
Hi there from Ukraine 🇺🇦
Love you blog, the vibe, the content. Great stuff! Not soon enough, I've started to deep in the bourbon. I enjoy learning and developing my knowledge about the tastes and the experience of choosing the RIGHT bourbon. Thanks so much! Keep going 🙌
Appreciate you! Much love during this difficult time in your country!
@@slbdrinks thanks for your support 🙌 how about making a video about the sherry cask finish with single malts? There's some great stuff, I should say. This week I've bought a bottle of Tamnavulin Sherry Cask edition. Oh, that's really fantastic nose and fruity taste 👌🤩
I typically only drink 100 proof and up on ice. It depends in the flavor profile. I like the temp change as having a cool liquid to sip on to me is more soothing than room temp.
Only thing I don't like about ice is that you have to drink much quicker than neat. So I feel the process can be rushed.
Adding a tiny bit of water and maybe using whiskey stones in tandem with water drops is the new method.
You guys are awesome and I am so glad I found your channel. thanks for all the education on bourbon for a newbie. You do talk a lot about Trenton's collection. You should do a special show one day from his place/bar. Keep up the great work and congrats on the 100K.
I drink almost everything neat, but I use a big rock occasionally when it’s hot outside or to experiment with flavor enhancement.
I really like Woodford Double Oaked with a block of ice to tone-down the smoke and it enhances the flavor.
I like Rare Breed neat or with a block because it’s always fantastic. WT101 always neat.
I need to try that DO with ice.
“Don’t ever let anybody tell you that you’re doing it wrong.” That’s why I respect you guys. Just honest and knowledgeable opinions with NO hoity toity arrogance.
Some great bottles up there! I definitely agree with Trenton about the Benchmark Full Proof. That stuff is great! We recently had a single blind tasting (8 of us) with Bardstown Discovery #7, Four Roses OBSK Store Pick Barrel Proof, High West American Prairie Store Pick Barrel Proof, Old Elk Wheated Store Pick Barrel Proof, Ezra Brooks Store Pick Cask Strength, and Benchmark Full Proof. Benchmark Full Proof came in second unanimously! What a great value bottle that I will make sure to keep on my shelf.
Great find on his part! Go Trent!
I picked one up for $12! Excellent
Really, really interesting. I never drank any of my bourbons over ice until I heard Kurt say he enjoyed Rare Breed over a block. I tried it, and I wholeheartedly agree. Since then, I've tried a few others. Recently, I was gifted a 100 proof bottle that I didn't really care for. It sat on my shelf until I decided to try it with a block of ice. It made so much difference, rounding out the harsh edges and bringing out some sweetness. I was glad to finally be able to get some love out of that bottle. Thanks again for a great topic, guys!
Thanks Holly! One can’t be afraid to experiment a little bit now and than. IMO so many whiskey drinkers paint themselves into a corner of having to drink whiskey “correctly” that unfortunately they miss out on discovering so many other fantastic options!
A large cube is critical imho for drinking whiskey over ice. Smaller cubes just dilute to quickly - really appreciate that you used your larger cubes in this presentation
💯 correct!
Love the channel. I restarted my bourbon journey in December 2022. I currently drink all my bourbon in a rocks glass with a round ice cube. I have purchased some glencairn glasses and started trying to smell notes and taste flavors. Unfortunately, all I can smell is alcohol. I know it will take some time to develop the ability to distinguish the notes and flavors. Love the blinds and recommendations. 🥃
I HAVE STARTED DOING ON THE REGULAR NOW!!! When I don't want to take the time for a cocktail I have a large block ice cube that barely fits in my Rock Glass and I pour. Generally Bulleit or Knob Creek but definitely a higher proof. Thanks guys again!!!!
Love it!
I'm not too far off Kurt although I'm probably more @ 85%. Since I tend to try and be outside since I'll often have a cigar....in the Summertime, if it's hot, I may very well drop some ice in just to make the drink a tad more 'refreshing'. I also tend to drink other spirits more in the Summer.
Enjoyed, and agree fully. With the extreme hot weather lately I've been delving g into ice as well on the higher proofs.
At least 2 of them are always available and at affordable price ( rare breed, JD barrel proof) happy with the list
I love the Barrel Strength Jack....My Bottle is 135.2
Interesting. Just poured me an EC Single Barrel Barrel Proof Store Pick, 132.2 proof, neat, before I started this video. First sip was amazing! As I sipped my way thru that pour, the heat became more prevalent. Now here after dinner, I poured a JD Special Reserve Single Barrel, Barrel Proof Rye at 132.1. It is marvelous and not bringing the heat. I am like you, Kurt, and like my whiskies in that 100 to 115 range. I wish I could find more Irish knocking on that door. Keep sharing!
Oh exactly! Would absolutely love to find more Irish over 100 proof!
There is an Irish Whiskey app that helps decipher what is out there. Midleton Distillery, in their Redbreast brand, has a number of whiskeys in the 100+ range. One that I just heard about was Redbreast aged in Kentucky oak at 101. I would like to find that one!
Isn't it amazing and interesting how ice affects whiskies differently? Brings out flavors, tames down flavors, adds sweetness, adds oak, etc....great video!
Thank you!
Another great video. I love watching just Kurt but getting Trenton on camera is great too. I am a proof fan. Never found Coy Hill. My preference on ice is scotch. I like Aberlour A’bunadh, Glen Allachie and Amarut. All non pealed barrel strength pours. All paired with a Maduro cigar.
Nice! Enjoy my friend!
I only recently started enjoying my bourbon or scotch on ice or with club soda. One point I differ on. It does not have to be a high proof for me. I really enjoy Benchmark 8 or Ancient Age on ice. Some of the lower proof bottom shelf whiskies have good character but a harsh trait. The ice takes out the harshness and the base flavors bloom.
I can see your point especially on the budget side. I am going to try a few lower proof budgets on ice. Thanks for the tip!
Instead of adding ice, i use an eye dropper or pipette of water. Jus a couple drops. Ice can water it down too much, but w an eye dropper or pipette you can slowly drop by drop right where you want it wo watering down too much. I dont always do it to take the heat off or reduce the bite, but jus a couple drops of water can really open up a whiskey. Try it instead of ice next time. Especially on the ones the ice watered it down too much
We get bagged ice in small chips rather than cubes. Usually, 100 gets one small chip, 110 gets 2 small chips, anything hotter gets 3-4 chips. Calms things out and also opens up the bourbon, for me I think the sweet spot is about 95 proof.
The key to your comment is that you have a system that works for you. It’s what you enjoy. Nothing wrong with that!
Fun and interesting video. I'm like Kurt, in that I like my whiskey neat about 95% of the time. If I'm sitting outside on a hot summer night, I will drink my whiskey over a block of ice. I do like Makers Mark Cask Strength over a block of ice too. Will have to try the Rare Breed on a block as I've only done that neat, but love it. Thanks!
MM CS is an excellent choice over ice!
Is it Trent or Trenton? I’m never certain and feel weird saying it wrong.
In any case, with his participation, your channel is rapidly becoming one of my favorites! The content just keeps getting better and I really love that it’s a family affair.
I drink my whiskey neat 95%+ of the time, but occasionally enjoy a little ice. When I do, I use a small Yeti to slow the melting process and avoid the “sweating” glass making a mess everywhere. And, of course, I only use cubes made with quality, filtered water.
Nice idea with the Yedi!
Trent or Trenton either one. I have probably called him both in different videos. His legal name is Trenton.
@@slbdrinks thanks! There’s nothing worse than mispronouncing someone’s name. Now I know they’re interchangeable. Regardless, you’ve raised a fine young man with, what seems to me, a VERY refined palate. And I just love the family dynamic. Kudos to you all!
The reigning GOAT of whiskey reviews in my opinion. And that's saying a lot, there's really good channels on YT. Keep up the good work 💫 hope I can interview you one day
Certainly appreciate your accolades! Just some down home folks enjoying and sharing whiskey, cocktails, and spirits!
I use to only use two small cubes. I’ve not tried the big cubes yet, I’m just huge fan of neat anymore.
Great video pals. The KC 120 is one of my fav's neat. The JD is indeed hot but I still prefer neat. The Benchmark, even though less proof then some of the others, is just too hot and sweet. I want to like it more due to price point, but just not my jam. Rare Breed I've had but can't remember profile :( . Never have and most likely never will find the Coy Hill (although I'd love to). However, KC 120 and the JD SB CS are fantastic.
Good video for early morning drop. Easier to start drinking before noon over ice. Would like to compare Jack at normal proof compared to the 140 over ice
Ice before noon! I love that rule Scott!
Great lineup! Cat’s out of the bag now. Benchmark FP at $25! Same mashbill as Stagg! Coy hill is wonderful, especially on ice w/coke hehe.
I have found that you want to let cubes or balls melt for a minute or so in the glass to prevent cracking. Cracking can actually take away from the flavor and cause faster melting. Gotta make sure you use purified water for ice as well!
All great info! Thanks for sharing!
Going back this far and watching, I find it crazy how much confidence Trenton has behind the bar top now compared to then!
Another awesome video! I’m a mostly a neat guy too but one thing I’ve done to give more choices for how much ice I use or guests use in their bourbon is to fill some of the ice cube molds 1/3 to half full and others full so people can choose how much ice (water) they want! You guys rock! Pun intended…
Great way to extend hospitality to your guests!
Every bourbon I have the opportunity to, I try neat, then add Ice, then add coke or diet coke personally I have found many bourbons that change flavor dramatically. for better or for worse, it all depends on the bourbon itself. I fully agree I typically prefer high-proof bourbons with Ice and lower-proof neat.
P.S. got my SLB Bourbon in today, Its amazing
So glad you like it!
Kurt said he never drinks single malts on ice, and in general I would agree. But there are a couple of high proof scotches that I have found to be amazing on ice, specially Highland Park Cask Strength and Aberlour A’Bunadh, both of which are in the 61%-64% ABV.
I have the Aberlour and will try that. I do have a HP cask of the sea release that is 130’s proof. I usually blend 50/50 with HP 12 and love it!
I've found that, for all varieties of whiskies, some ice or in the case of a Single Malt Scotch, a "wee drip of spring water" generally will "open up" the flavor profile and in many cases make for a more pleasurable imbibing experience. But not for everything, as you mention. For the better, higher proof whiskies, it sort of "decompresses" the flavors... like slowing a recording down to hear all the notes in a passage rather than everything all mashed together. YMMV.
Tried the Benchmark straight up and it was like rocket fuel! Actually choked a bit, but then put it over a chunk of ice and let it mellow a bit and it was really good. Trying the Bonded Bottle tonight, 100 proof, and it is not bad at all and pretty inexpensive! This is definitely a sleeper bourbon!
The full proof is a bit hot lol. All in all a very nice budget lineup!
Just picked up some Rare Breed for the first time today, $46, absolutely love it! Thanks Kurt and Trent!!
Your welcome and great price!
I think that each whiskey interacts with wood differently and likely has different water soluble components that leech into the whiskey to give it its unique flavors. These water soluble compounds will be dissolved in water moreso for some whiskeys than others. Ones that get their flavor from less soluble compounds don't lose as much flavor but have it enhanced.
Great scientific answer!
Some higher proof bourbons or rye are a little spiky for me neat, so I'll try them neat first and then put them over ice. I think I'm right with you, Kurt. Scotch, Irish, Japanese, etc. and lower-proof bourbon and rye, I drink neat now (wasn't always able to).
Quintessential Sweet-tart notes 😂
That kid 😂
Great content as usual. I learn something and get a few ideas every time.
Great work guys. Love the channel.
I prefer stones ...kept in the freezer.. less dilution....but sometimes I guess a little water won't hurt
Forgot to mention your lovely wife is awesome as well! Trenton is lucky to have such wonderful parents.
Love Maker's Mark Cask Strength over ice!
Nice! Another great pour over ice!
as you go on tasting they get better and better.
Exactly 😂
When it's 100 degrees for 3 months higher proof Whiskey over ice can come in handy. But with summer and ice I'd rather have a Whiskey drink like old fashioned or mint julep vs just Whiskey over ice.
Love the videos, and especially this topic of bourbon over ice. I’m probably 75/25 neat/ice, and would highly recommend you try Chattanooga 111 over the large block of ice. It tends to run hot as a neat pour, but over ice it feels just right. Cheers!
I will do that!
It's 99 degrees just south of Seattle today. This is definitely the way to go.
I was shocked to try the Still Austin Cask Strength over ice and it really enhanced the flavor and somehow also seemed hotter over ice than neat. Give it a try.
There’s actually a few scotches that seem to enhance the flavor - even at ~86 proof. I think the last one I had that way was Glendronach 12. It’s worth a try.
Good morning, I just wanted to say that I really enjoy your channel. Very informative and I have tried a lot of the whiskies that you've shown. As far as the Benchmark Full Proof, I really like it and had to go back and get two more.
Love the information and the show.
Thanks so much!
I like a splash of cold seltzer on top of a standard bar shot for most bourbons but like one of you pointed out the different bourbons react to water or seltzer in a different way...keeps it all interesting !
I have never met a bourbon or whisky that I don't prefer over ice. I've stopped fighting it, that's just how I enjoy it. Don't care what the snobs say.
Right there with you. Loved watching a colleague’s face blanch as I added a chip or two to a glass of Pappys 15. For me, it changed it from way-too-hot to “damn, this is a delicious whisky”.
The wild turkey rare breed I get a oak note on ice neat more brown sugar sweetness I have a march 2022 release of Jack Daniels single barrel barrel proof it's caramel, brown sugar with heat of the proof neat(134 proof) on ice oak notes then toffee excellent review as always slb drinks 👍
Thank you! Great descriptions!
fun video, I drink my gin, tequila, rum on the rocks but i like my whiskies neat. I would think you loose the oil/viscosity feel once it's over ice? At least that's what i notice when having an old fashioned, granted that's much more diluted then what you're doing. Also great line up, you have basically my favorite bottles out there (with exception to Benchmark since i've never had it). I would love to find Coy hill in store one day.
Hopefully you will! Wonderful flavors but HOT! lol
In the single malt world, ice is considered a nose killer. Besides adding ice, you all should sample with just adding a bit of water. That's often the happy medium between neat and on the rocks. You can also control the dilution much better with adding drops of water.
Great advice!
I'm a big Rare Breed fan. I blinded it with a few of my barrel proofs. Penelope won....twice. if you haven't, try it
Only high rye or spicy bourbons do well for me on ice. 4 roses SB is a good one on ice. Brings out that floral note. As always, thanks for the great content! Can't wait for the Benchmark to hit the midwest.
Perfect examples!
If you have a filter on your water it will help to make denser cubes and they melt slower.
Love the Full Proof! Just snagged 2 bottles 😎🎸
I enjoy some neat and some with a Rock. Sometimes not very often I add a touch of Ginger Ale. Better with high proof Rye. Give it a shot. Would love to see Trent and your Thoughts.
Blessings from Gettysburg Pa….
I have that JD barrel proof and Rare Breed and can drink them both neat...but that Full Proof Benchmark...wow...I drank some recently and after the first two sips I was ok...but all of a sudden the heartburn that came on was horrible.
It is pretty spicy due to its youth.
Great episode 👍
I'm newer to whiskey but I feel the 100+ proofers and high rye boys hold up best to ice. Some of the sweet lower proofs just fall apart with the added water.
Great shows
Had an acquaintance keep some plain ole Woodford in the freezer. He poured me some and I kinda gave him a half smile but in my mind I’m shaking my head. Hell it was good… and not watered down. Haha. I don’t put any of my stuff in the freezer but it can work sometimes I guess.
I haven’t either with whiskey but have with gin. Freezer gin makes a fabulous martini!
@@slbdrinksI will have to try the freezer gin in a martini. I discovered years ago that a martini goes great with a steak. Thanks for the tip.
Some of my favorite whiskeys there, but I have a VERY high spice tolerance for hot sauces, so the heat is not a problem for me!!!
You go lol!
There are two things going on here. First is the sweetness, our ability to detect and our preference for it. Second is alcohol content, the burn and our ability to detect the burn. So it's both complicated and simple at the same time. For me, with bourbon or rye I like a little bit of ice (one big cube or a small amount of smaller ones). Bourbon is a fairly sweet fully-converted liquor. Cooling off the bourbon tones the sweetness just a touch (into my range of a nice level of sweetness detection - others may vary on this). And then the dilution cuts the burn of the alcohol for me - again into my acceptable range (again - others vary and may be able to handle more burn and it tastes fine to them). For scotch on the other hand, I don't do ice (scotch is less sweet than bourbon) and just a few water drops to open it up (I like the wider range of scents and flavors this brings out). One of my favorite scotches - Aberlour A'bunah - I drink 1 shot to half a shot of water because it is cask strength and this brings it into optimal flavor profile for me (vs being delicious but overpowering on alcohol bite). It's an individual thing, it's complicated in some ways, and it may change for you over the years (it has with me). So Kurt is right - drink it like you like it!
Amen to that! Thanks for the detailed comment!
I’m a beginner to bourbon, so I drink it on ice, I still taste it pretty good, the friend who got me into bourbon drinks it neat, I’ll get there one day.
Newbie here,. I like a large cube of ice in the summer. Gotta cool down for me 🥃 Cheers
Nothing wrong with that!
Dickel over ice is really good. Especially the bonded or the 9 year.
So is makers mark and Rowan's
Really great video!
I am learning so much watching your videos, I already watched the crystal clear Ice video so I am going to try that at home....and one question. What do you think about a bottle of Calumet, I believe the bottle I had was the 12 year old and it was at the time I drank it I think twelves years old from the bottling time. So 24 year old Calumet...Just your thoughts
The Whiskey Advocate website has a proofing calculator. If you like your whiskey at a certain proof, it will calculate how much water to add to a higher proof whiskey to get it to the proof you like.
Fantastic advice! I wasn’t aware.
Awesome content! Thank you!
Adding water/ice beings the oils to the top. The change in flavors can be wonderful or nasty.
Also changing the temperature changes the flavors a bit.
Dang it, that Jack 145 proof bottle would cook my socks off - finding Rare Breed pretty lethal even with Ice - Great content as usual, keep em coming
I am with you!
Drink mine the only way bourbon should be drank...... NEAT!!!!
I want to be able to smell and taste the bourbon in its original form. Don't get me wrong, a shot or two of bourbon mixed in lemonade is mighty fine but it can't beat it neat.
I respect that because you are enjoying the way you choose.
Nice video. Have you ever chilled rare breed in the fridge instead of ice? It will lower the temperature but won’t dilute
That's a good question, whether this is more about dilution, temperature or perhaps both? Then there's always the choice of those whiskey stones which are ice substitutes to avoid dilution and just cool something down.
I have never put whiskey in the freezer but always worth a try!
Old Forester 1920 is my fave over ice......
Woodford double oak is great neat, it’s also great as an old fashion. But for some reason over Ice I don’t like it seems completely different.
Love it, guys! Glad you are saving your tonsils,, Kurt!
Got to keep them 😂
Not an over ice fan. However when it is cold, Sagamore 83 tastes like some sort of iced tea,
Huh, will have to try it!
I’ve come to love Larceny B522 over some I’ve recently
Mmmm I need to try it on ice!
Fajnie się was ogląda. From Poland
Greetings my friend!
Another great show!
I would like to see you test whiskeys you like over ice compared to the same whiskey refrigerated to 30-32 degrees. How much does the chilling do to relieve the pallet vs. the changes a bit of cold water is essentially performing on the whiskey.
I don't think you have done a full Benchmark line up yet so that might be a good one for you, they seem to have upped the quality of the brand. The bonded has gotten some praise and I just ordered a bottle, looking forward to giving it a go
Appreciate the idea! We will actually be starting a Buffalo Trace in depth distillery review very soon. To big for one show so actually starting with the full Benchmark lineup. Finally collected the last bottle I needed, bonded.
Do you have a video on the Longhorn store pick? I have a bottle like that and would be curious to see if it's the same 14yr old that you mentioned. Great vid!
I respect that because you are enjoying whiskey the way you like it.
Great channel. Love this video
I'm still milking my longhorn pick too! If remember right we have the same longhorn pick
More than likely yes! What a great pour! I was lucky to have 2. Winding down on that last bottle now. Shame
@@slbdrinks yes sir I had 2 myself and almost out too def sucks I hope I can find another one
Wish i wouldve tried my wt rb on ice again before i finished my bottle. Wasnt the biggest fan of it in general.
The fact that Trenton offers that Coy Hill neat first is amazing - that’s the kind of evil genius I’m here for.
I did pick up an Elijah Craig single barrel that was a little over 130 proof and boy that was a spicy meatball - had to start with over a block of ice on that one as well
That kid 😂
Is it best to use a block of ice or ball of ice. I enjoy this channel. Thanks.
Either imo. The larger piece of ice regardless of shape is a much better option than basic small size kitchen ice.
I picked up a bottle of the benchmark full proof because a couple people in a group I’m in said it was basically a stag jr junior and I was very impressed for it to be a $22 bottle
I always liked Old Grand-Dad 114 over ice in summer.