Bourbon

I only drink rye in a cocktail, Manhattan, old fashioned, boulevardier, etc, all of which benefit from the drier, spicier notes of rye compared to bourbon.

imo, of course.

 

Imo, too.

 

enjoying a Manhattan w/ the 1776 rye right now, in fact. it's lovely.

 

picked up a bottle of Four Roses OESO Single Barrel today. 50%, and a little hot neat, but nice and smooth with a big cube.

this is my intro to the Single Barrel series from 4R. this one was $53 at Total Wine, other single barrel mash bills were in the $80-$90 range.

Spoiler

 

bought a bottle of Double Oaked Woodford Reserve recently, and I quite like it. Slightly higher proof than standard, and I suspect with a slightly higher rye bill, although perhaps that's just the (double) oak speaking. recommended, and not outrageously priced. if you don't trust me, Anders Erickson is a fan.

and for those of us who still have a turntable, this looks fun:

https://2xowhiskey.com/vinyl-blend/

 

It’s no wonder you’re able to rationalize your support.

lol

 

c'mon fellas, step up and do your part

Jim Beam Halts Production, as Whiskey Market Struggles
The bourbon giant is closing its flagship distilling operation for all of 2026.

gift link no paywall

https://www.nytimes.com/2025/12/22/...e_code=1.-k8.SpBv.G_4aQ14tnQfR&smid=url-share

 

i'm holding up my end.

cheers/basso