B&M Digest, Volume I, Issue 12
Hey everyone, I want to apologize for my brief absence over the past few weeks. I’ve been dealing with some more medical issues, but I’m back now and ready to dive into all things bourbon and mead. Thanks for your patience and understanding during this time. I’m excited to catch up on everything I missed and share some great updates with you all!
National Parks Edition 4: Wyoming Whiskey's Tribute to Yellowstone
Wyoming Whiskey is back with its fourth installment in the National Parks series, honoring Yellowstone National Park and the stunning Mammoth Hot Springs. The label features a colorized photo by F. Jay Haynes, Yellowstone's official photographer from 1881 to 1921. This limited edition release is a 98-proof, 5-year-old bourbon, characterized by rich-tasting notes of creme brulee, cherry compote, toasted coconut, and a finish with hints of dark chocolate and espresso. Having personally sampled it in Yellowstone, I can confidently say it surpasses its predecessors. Wyoming Whiskey continues its tradition of philanthropy with a $150,000 donation to Yellowstone Forever, encouraging every bottle purchase to contribute to preserving the park. National Parks 4 will be available in Wyoming starting August 29th, with broader distribution in select markets.
New Flavor Alert: No Crust! Raspberry Recovery
Fresh from Funktastic Meads, a new flavor, No Crust! Raspberry Recovery, seems like a tasty twist on the fan-favorite mead. Launching this Thursday, August 29th at noon, you'll be able to grab a bottle either on OZNR or directly in the taproom. If you're a member, you can get your hands on it right now! Enjoy the latest release, and don't forget to drop by the taproom.
Garrison Brothers' Cowboy Bourbon 2024: A Sizzling Hazmat Whiskey
Get ready to feel the heat with the 2024 release of Garrison Brothers' Cowboy Bourbon, clocking in at a fiery 140.2 proof—right on the edge of hazmat territory. This 10th-anniversary edition, aged for eight years in the scorching Texas climate, offers uncut, unfiltered, barrel-proof intensity. Only 10,000 bottles will be released, with the first 1,000 available at the distillery on September 21st for $280 each. Don't miss your chance to experience this bold tribute to American bourbon!
Casey Jones Distillery Unveils the Mash Maker’s Experience
Starting August 31st, Casey Jones Distillery in Hopkinsville, KY, is launching its first-ever Mash Maker’s Experience — a hands-on tour where guests can help create a custom bourbon mash bill. This unique, family-friendly experience offers visitors a chance to scoop, grind, and mix grains, following in the footsteps of Master Distiller AJ Casey Jones. The custom mash bill will be distilled and aged, with participants receiving updates on the process. Priced at just $10, this immersive tour kicks off Bourbon Heritage Month and offers a rare glimpse into the art of bourbon-making.
LF Heritage Distillery Joins Kentucky Distillers’ Association
LF Heritage Distillery Co., founded by Bethany and Darin Dillow on a five-generation family farm in Georgetown, KY, has become the newest member of the Kentucky Distillers’ Association (KDA). The distillery, which began production in 2023, is known for its pure limestone water and strong ties to Kentucky tradition. With a capacity to produce 576,000 gallons annually, LF Heritage joins KDA as a “Craft” level member, contributing to the state's rich bourbon legacy. Set to open later this year, the distillery is eager to welcome visitors and enhance the local bourbon experience.
Bardstown Bourbon Co. Unveils High Wheat Bourbon
Bardstown Bourbon Company is expanding its offerings with the introduction of High Wheat Bourbon, featuring a standout mashbill of 39% wheat. Aged for six years and bottled at 106 proof, this Kentucky Straight Bourbon is part of the Origin Series, with a suggested retail price of $49.99. The distillery, known for its innovative approach, also offers a holiday tasting kit featuring four of its 100% estate-distilled whiskeys. Bardstown Bourbon Co. continues to push industry boundaries with its unique blends and transparent practices.
Heritage Distilling Co. Launches "War Dogs" Whiskey to Honor Military Working Dogs
Heritage Distilling Company has introduced "War Dogs™", a 5-year straight bourbon whiskey, as the first release under its new Service To America Salute™ brand. This 98.6-proof whiskey honors the service and bravery of America's military working dogs, with a portion of the proceeds supporting veteran and K9-related nonprofits. Priced at $95, the collector’s edition bottle features artwork by Michael Solovey and a paw print from Duco, a war dog who served in Afghanistan. Available in 45 states, "War Dogs" whiskey continues Heritage's tradition of crafting premium spirits with a purpose. For more information on Heritage’s award-winning spirits, visit heritagedistilling.com.
Heaven Hill Unveils 18th Limited Edition “Parker’s Heritage Collection”
Heaven Hill Distillery has announced the release of the 18th edition of the Parker’s Heritage Collection, featuring a 14-year-old Kentucky Straight Malt Whiskey finished in heavy toast Cognac barrels. Priced at $169.99, this limited edition whiskey showcases a rich, velvety flavor profile with notes of molasses, chocolate, cloves, and nutmeg. Continuing the legacy of late Master Distiller Parker Beam, a portion of the proceeds will support ALS research and patient care. Available nationally and internationally starting in September, this edition honors Parker Beam’s innovative spirit and enduring impact on the whiskey world.
Beam Unveils Little Book Line Extension, ‘The Infinite’
The James B. Beam Distilling Co. has launched "The Infinite: Edition 1," a new addition to the Little Book series by Freddie Noe, which celebrates three generations of Noe distillers. This inaugural release blends bourbons aged 20, 14, 8, and 7 years, offering a complex flavor profile of oak, dark fruit, caramel, and spice. Limited quantities will be available nationwide at retail locations, with each year introducing new components to the blend. Priced at $199.99 per 750ml bottle, enthusiasts can find retail locations at littlebookwhiskey.com.
Mead Hall in St. Charles, Missouri Offers Unique Twists on Ancient Beverage
Mead Hall, the latest venture by veteran homebrewer Mike Fuson, introduces innovative meads in St. Charles, Missouri. With roots potentially tracing back over 20,000 years, mead is one of the oldest fermented drinks in history. At Mead Hall, you can sample a variety of flavors, from raspberry and blackberry to orange blossom, cherry, and chipotle. The standout offerings include whiskey and port-barrel-aged meads. The 3,000-square-foot tasting room boasts a minimalist design with communal wood tables, string lights, and a vibrant mural featuring their bear mascot. Located at 2236 1st Capitol Drive, it's a must-visit for mead enthusiasts.
Goblin Alchemy Dungeon Brings D&D-Themed Mead and Wine Bar to Scranton
The Goblin Alchemy Dungeon, a new Dungeons & Dragons-themed mead and wine bar, has opened at the Ritz Theater and Performing Arts Center in Scranton, Pennsylvania. This immersive venue, crafted by Jason Heaslet, features fantasy-inspired décor, including whiskey barrel tables etched with alchemical runes. Offering unique meads like "Blood of the Familiar" and "Oathbreaker," as well as wines, Goblin Alchemy aims to create a goblin-made dungeon experience. The bar operates Thursdays through Saturdays and plans to introduce ax-throwing and D&D campaigns soon. With a focus on blending gaming and fantasy with mead, this new spot caters to the area's geek-friendly crowd. For more details, visit them at 222 Wyoming Ave.
Superstition Meadery Unveils Crispy Bee: A Hoppy Lagered Mead
Superstition Meadery's highly anticipated Crispy Bee has hit the shelves, blending Wildflower Honey with Czech Saaz and Centennial Hops for a unique hoppy lagered mead experience. This pilsner-inspired mead promises a refreshing twist, appealing to both beer lovers and mead enthusiasts. Perfect for sharing with friends, Crispy Bee offers a distinct flavor adventure. Visit their Tasting Room to experience this inventive mead firsthand!
Bourbon & Beyond Festival Schedule Announced
The Bourbon & Beyond music festival is set to rock the Highland Festival grounds in Louisville from September 19-22. The lineup features a stellar mix of artists:
Thursday: Sting and Beck
Friday: Dave Matthews Band
Saturday: Zach Bryan and Cody Jinks
Sunday: Tyler Childers and My Morning Jacket
For the full schedule and more details, visit the festival’s website.
Western Kentucky Distilling Joins Estate Whiskey Alliance
Western Kentucky Distilling, based in Beaver Dam, has become one of the founding members of the Estate Whiskey Alliance. This new initiative, led by the University of Kentucky, focuses on promoting local sourcing and sustainable production in the whiskey industry. The alliance includes notable members such as Heaven Hill Distillery, Maker’s Mark, and Hillrock Estate Distillery.
The alliance aims to support research and education in agriculture, manufacturing, and sustainability. It will also introduce a certification program in 2025 to authenticate Estate Whiskey Certified products with a recognizable mark.
Western Kentucky Distilling, which began producing bourbon in July 2023, emphasizes its commitment to high-quality, locally sourced ingredients. The distillery plans to produce 50,000 barrels of bourbon and rye annually and sees this partnership as a step towards a more sustainable and collaborative future in the industry.
Whiskey Thief Distilling Co. Expands to Louisville with New Location
Whiskey Thief Distilling Co., renowned for its unique straight-from-the-barrel bourbon and rye whiskey experiences, is opening a second location in Louisville, KY. The new facility, Whiskey Thief NuLu, located at 610 Nanny Goat Strut, will offer the same uncut and unfiltered tastings and hands-on "thieving" experience as their original Frankfort location. Guests can sample a rotating selection of bourbons and rye whiskeys, and use a whiskey thief to fill their bottles. The NuLu location will feature a cocktail bar, indoor and outdoor seating, live music, and a private event space. It aims to provide a casual, walk-in-friendly environment for bourbon enthusiasts, mirroring the accessible experience of the original site. Opening hours will be announced later this fall.
Baker’s 13-Year Single Barrel Bourbon Re-released
James B Beam Co. has announced the limited re-release of Baker’s 13-Year Single Barrel Bourbon, a highly anticipated bottling at 107 proof. This special edition, priced at $149.99 SRP, is noted for its deep aging of 13 years, showcasing how time and warehouse conditions influence its flavor profile. The bourbon, part of Jim Beam’s Small Batch Collection, features a mashbill of 77% corn, 13% rye, and 10% malted barley. Its tasting notes reveal fruit, vanilla, caramel, and toasted nuts, with a robust, warmly rounded finish. The release will be available nationwide starting August 2024.
New Craft Distillery Opening in Whitehouse
Adventure Spirits Distillery, a new craft distillery in Northwest Ohio, is set to open in September 2024 at 10907 Waterville St., Whitehouse. Founded by retired Air Force veterans Joe Carter and Barry Beale, the distillery aims to bring the essence of the Kentucky Bourbon Trail to Ohio. Visitors can look forward to engaging, hands-on experiences with the distilling team and a unique whiskey club called The Explorers Society. Adventure Spirits Distillery will focus on producing, finishing, and blending craft spirits while educating guests about the art of distilling. For more details, visit their website here.
Yellowstone Star Cole Hauser’s Bourbon is Now Available Nationwide
Lazy K Bar, the bourbon brand launched by actor Cole Hauser, is now available for online purchase and direct shipping across select U.S. markets. Previously limited to Texas and Montana, the 8-year-old Lazy K Bar Straight Bourbon, bottled at 92 proof and priced at $100, can now be enjoyed nationwide. The bourbon, distilled from a mashbill of 74% corn, 18% rye, and 8% malted barley, is sourced from Kentucky and bottled in Bozeman, Montana. To order, visit their website.
12 Expert-Recommended Bourbons To Enjoy With Your Next Steak Dinner [Tasting Table]
Bourbon Bonanza Benefit in Chicago - Silent Auction, Bourbon Tastings & Bites by One Off Hospitality, September 8th [Chicago Food Magazine]
Has Virginia Figured Out a Solution to Its Rare Whiskey Problem? [InsideHook]
Whiskies in the Sweet Spot: Rated 93 points or Higher And $100 And Under [Whisky Advocate]
Looking For Great Kentucky Bourbon? 6 Trendy Bourbon Bars To Try In Louisville [Courier Journal]
15 Best Glasses For Sipping Bourbon [Tasting Table]
We Blind Tasted & Ranked The Best 10-Year Old Bourbons For 2024 [UPROXX]
Thanks for sticking with me during this short break. I’m thrilled to be back and ready to bring you the latest and greatest in bourbon and mead news. If you have any questions or just want to chat about the newest releases and events, feel free to reach out. Here’s to a fantastic week ahead—cheers to good drinks and great company!
