Bourbon Bytes Podcast

This week on the Bourbon Bytes podcast, we’re diving into a packed lineup of new whiskey releases before revisiting one of my favorite barrel-strength rye whiskeys of all time: Michter’s Barrel Strength Rye. New Riff is releasing its oldest Headliner blend yet, featuring 10+ year components including malted rye bourbon, rye, and Balboa rye. Bardstown Bourbon Company is getting tropical with Victoria Pineapple Finished Whiskey, a bourbon and rye blend finished in pineapple rum casks with fresh pineapple added to the barrel. Yellowstone is back with a limited edition finished in ruby and tawny port casks, and Heaven Hill is unveiling a first-of-its-kind Double Mash Bottled-in-Bond bourbon that blends its traditional bourbon mash bill with its wheated bourbon mash bill. Then it’s time for a Byte-Sized Review of Michter’s Barrel Strength Rye. This 2016 release is one of the earlier batches of Michter’s barrel-strength rye, likely around 113–114 proof, and it gave me a very different experience than I remembered from later releases. Expect an herbaceous rye nose, mint, citrus, vintage copper notes, brown sugar, burnt sugar, oak, plum, cinnamon, clove, and a long holiday-spice finish. I used to think of Michter’s Barrel Strength Rye as one of my favorite rye whiskeys ever — but does this older bottle still hold up in 2026? 🥃 Topics covered: New Riff 2026 Headliner Blend Bardstown Bourbon Company Victoria Pineapple Finished Whiskey Yellowstone Limited Edition Bourbon Heaven Hill Double Mash Bottled-in-Bond Bourbon Michter’s Barrel Strength Rye review How older Michter’s releases compare to modern bottles Final score and whether vintage bottles are worth hunting Would you rather try Bardstown’s pineapple-finished whiskey or hunt down an older Michter’s Barrel Strength Rye?   YouTube Chapter Markers: 00:00 Intro – New Riff, Bardstown, Heaven Hill & Michter’s Rye 00:28 Welcome + Episode Setup 01:23 New Riff 2026 Headliner Blend 03:54 Bardstown Victoria Pineapple Finished Whiskey 06:05 Yellowstone Limited Edition Bourbon 06:58 Heaven Hill Double Mash Bottled-in-Bond 08:22 Byte-Sized Review – Michter’s Barrel Strength Rye 15:34 Re-Reviewing Old Favorites + Outro

This week on the Bourbon Bytes podcast... Kavalan shocked the whiskey world at the 2026 International Whisky Competition, taking three of the top five spots with Taiwanese single malt releases including the Peatist Oloroso Sherry Cask, Solist Ex-Bourbon Single Cask Strength, and Solist Madeira Cask. Then Buffalo Trace announced Camp Buffalo Trace, a new 21+ summer camp-style experience featuring bourbon education, blind tastings, single barrel challenges, barrel stave workshops, and even overnight luxury camping at the distillery. Buffalo Trace also quietly revealed a new Bourbon Lemonade canned cocktail, made with Buffalo Trace bourbon and real lemon juice, available at the distillery this summer. Then it’s time for a Byte-Sized Review of a Buffalo Trace Single Barrel Store Pick from K&L Wine and Spirits. This 9 year, 2 month Buffalo Trace store pick was bottled in a 1.75L handle for around $65, making it one of the best values I’ve found from Buffalo Trace in a while. It brings classic Buffalo Trace character with extra age, oak, brown sugar pastry, candied apple, cherry, caramel, chocolate, and a surprisingly solid finish for 90 proof. Is this the best way to drink Buffalo Trace? 🥃 Topics covered: Kavalan’s massive International Whisky Competition sweep Camp Buffalo Trace luxury bourbon camping Buffalo Trace Bourbon Lemonade canned cocktail What makes Buffalo Trace store picks different K&L Wine and Spirits Buffalo Trace single barrel review Final score and whether store picks are worth hunting YouTube Chapter Markers: 00:00 Intro – Kavalan, Camp Buffalo Trace & Store Pick Review 00:29 Welcome + Episode Setup 00:58 Kavalan Sweeps the International Whisky Competition 03:03 Camp Buffalo Trace 06:13 Buffalo Trace Bourbon Lemonade 08:01 Byte-Sized Review – Buffalo Trace Single Barrel Store Pick 17:06 Byte Club + Outro Would you grab a Buffalo Trace store pick over the standard bottle?

This week on the Bourbon Bytes podcast, we’re talking about major whiskey and gaming news before diving into a double Byte-Sized Review of SHĀNG whiskey — a first-of-its-kind fusion of Chinese baijiu tradition and Kentucky whiskey aging. Barton 1792 just announced two major releases: its first-ever 1792 Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey and 1792 XV, a 15-year-old cask-strength, unfiltered bourbon that marks the oldest age-stated expression in the brand’s history. The Kentucky Bourbon Trail also added four new destinations, including Pursuit Spirits, giving a major milestone moment to a brand that started as a whiskey podcast. On the gaming side, Microsoft announced one of the biggest restructures in Xbox history, including thousands of job cuts and a major shift in strategy. Then it’s time for the main event: a double review of SHĀNG’s new jiàngxiāng whiskey releases. First up is SHĀNG Dàn Yǎ, made from Chinese sauce-aroma baijiu that is redistilled and aged in charred American oak in Kentucky. Then I review SHĀNG East + West Kentucky Blend, which combines that baijiu-based whiskey with American red sorghum whiskey. These are unlike anything I’ve reviewed before: sweet, earthy, savory, smoky, honeyed, mezcal-like, Islay-adjacent, and completely unique. 🥃 Topics covered: 1792 Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey 1792 XV 15 Year Cask Strength Bourbon Kentucky Bourbon Trail adds Pursuit Spirits Microsoft and Xbox restructuring What is SHĀNG jiàngxiāng whiskey? SHĀNG Dàn Yǎ review SHĀNG East + West Kentucky Blend review Final scores and which bottle I’d recommend first Would you try baijiu whiskey, or is this too far outside traditional American whiskey?   YouTube Chapter Markers: 00:00 Intro – Barton 1792, Bourbon Trail, Xbox & SHĀNG 00:32 Welcome + Episode Setup 01:07 Barton 1792 Rye + 1792 XV Bourbon 04:49 Kentucky Bourbon Trail Adds Pursuit Spirits 06:13 Microsoft Announces Major Xbox Restructure 08:58 Double Byte-Sized Review – SHĀNG Whiskey 11:41 SHĀNG Dàn Yǎ Review 15:21 SHĀNG East + West Kentucky Blend Review

This week on the Bourbon Bytes podcast, we’re heading into July 4th weekend with a packed lineup of whiskey and gaming news before reviewing one of Maker’s Mark’s biggest experiments yet: Star Hill Farm 2026. Bulleit just announced its oldest rye ever: a 20-year-old, 137-proof release limited to 1,776 bottles for America’s 250th anniversary. Redwood Empire is also back with Colonel Armstrong Wheated Bourbon, a new $40 four-grain release blending Northern California grain-to-glass whiskey with Kentucky and Indiana high-wheat bourbon. We also talk about Dragon Con Bourbon, a nerdy collaboration with Atlanta’s Old Fourth Distillery, and Sweetens Cove Father’s Finish, a bourbon finished in cuvée wine barrels with a golf-themed cork design. On the gaming side, Nintendo finally brings Star Fox to the Switch 2 with a modern remake of Star Fox 64. Then it’s time for a Byte-Sized Review of Maker’s Mark Star Hill Farm 2026. This is not bourbon. It’s an American wheat whiskey made with 27% wheat, 62% malted wheat, and 11% malted barley, designed to highlight estate-grown grain and regenerative agriculture at Maker’s Mark. At 116.4 proof and around $120, Star Hill Farm 2026 brings cola, vanilla cream, tart cherry, powdered sugar, brûléed sugar, and dessert-like sweetness. But does it deliver enough complexity to justify the price? 🥃 Topics covered: Bulleit 20 Year Rye Redwood Empire Colonel Armstrong Wheated Bourbon Dragon Con Bourbon Sweetens Cove Father’s Finish Star Fox on Nintendo Switch 2 Maker’s Mark Star Hill Farm 2026 review Final score and whether it’s worth buying Would you pay $100-$120 for Maker’s Mark’s new wheat whiskey experiment? YouTube Chapter Markers 00:00 Intro – Bulleit, Dragon Con, Star Fox & Star Hill Farm 00:28 Welcome + July 4th Weekend Setup 01:14 Bulleit 20 Year Rye 03:07 Redwood Empire Colonel Armstrong Wheated Bourbon 03:59 Dragon Con Bourbon 05:23 Sweetens Cove Father’s Finish 06:24 Star Fox Comes to Nintendo Switch 2 07:53 Byte-Sized Review – Maker’s Mark Star Hill Farm 2026 15:56 Outro + Community Question

It’s the 100th episode of the Bourbon Bytes podcast! This week, I’m celebrating the milestone with a packed whiskey news lineup and a special Byte-Sized Review of Little Book The Infinite: Edition II from Jim Beam. Willett filled the first barrel at its new Springfield distillery, Bacardi is taking full ownership of Teeling Irish Whiskey, Four Roses officially announced its first Experimental Series release finished in Japanese Mizunara oak, Blade & Bow is launching a 12-year Solera Reserve bourbon, and Frey Ranch released its first 10-year bourbon. We also talk about the new “day cap” drinking trend, because apparently Gen Z may have just rebranded happy hour. Then it’s time for the main event: Little Book The Infinite: Edition II. This special Jim Beam family blend brings together 22-year bourbon distilled by Booker Noe, 10-year bourbon distilled by Fred Noe, and 7-year bourbon from Freddie Noe. It is bottled uncut and unfiltered at 120.4 proof, and it might be one of the best bourbons I’ve ever reviewed on the podcast. Expect deep mahogany oak, vanilla, cinnamon, rich sweetness, charred barrel spice, incredible balance, and a full-bodied finish that drinks far below its proof. 🥃 Topics covered: 100th episode thank-you Willett’s new Springfield distillery fills its first barrel Bacardi takes full ownership of Teeling Irish Whiskey Four Roses Experimental Series #1 Mizunara Oak Blade & Bow 12 Year Solera Reserve Frey Ranch 10 Year Bourbon The “day cap” trend Little Book The Infinite: Edition II review Final score and whether it is worth $180–$200 Thank you all for listening, supporting, and helping Bourbon Bytes reach 100 episodes. Cheers and game on!   Chapter Markers: 00:00 100th Episode Intro 00:28 Welcome + Thank You for 100 Episodes 01:09 Willett Fills First Barrel at Springfield Distillery 02:15 Bacardi Takes Ownership of Teeling Irish Whiskey 03:25 Four Roses Experimental Series Mizunara Oak 04:42 Blade & Bow 12 Year Solera Reserve 06:02 Frey Ranch 10 Year Bourbon 06:44 Is the Day Cap the New Night Cap? 08:55 Byte-Sized Review – Little Book The Infinite Edition II 15:16 100th Episode Outro

This week on the Bourbon Bytes podcast, we’re covering one of the most ambitious American whiskey projects ever attempted before diving into a smoky, double-barreled Kentucky bourbon. Booker’s is back with the new Milkshake Batch, inspired by Booker Noe’s love of bourbon-spiked chocolate malted milkshakes. Green River has announced its oldest bourbon yet: an 8-year Distillery Select Toasted Double Oak release bottled at 115.1 proof. We also look at two very different celebrations of America’s 250th anniversary. Breckenridge Distillery is releasing its Patriotic Reserve Bourbon, while Lost Lantern has created a bourbon blend featuring whiskey sourced from all 50 states. Then Coors Whiskey Company enters the American malt category with an 8-year limited release made with Colorado and Coors malts. Finally, it’s time for a Byte-Sized Review of Burnt Tavern Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey. This 7-year-old, 105-proof bourbon is double-barreled in specially toasted and charred oak, creating notes of vanilla, toasted marshmallow, barbecue smoke, chocolate-chip cookies, caramelized crust, oak, and lingering chocolate. Does all that smoke and char enhance the bourbon—or overpower what could be an excellent base whiskey? The review bottle was provided by Burnt Tavern. All opinions are my own. 🥃 Topics covered: Booker’s Bourbon Milkshake Batch Green River Distillery Select Toasted Double Oak Breckenridge Patriotic Reserve Bourbon Lost Lantern’s all-50-state bourbon blend Coors 8 Year Blended American Malt Whiskey Burnt Tavern Bourbon review Final score and whether it is worth $70 Would you rather try the bourbon blended from all 50 states or the smoky, double-barreled Burnt Tavern? Chapter Timecodes:  00:00 Intro – Booker’s, Green River, Coors & Burnt Tavern 00:28 Welcome + Episode Update 01:01 Booker’s Milkshake Batch 02:44 Green River’s Oldest Bourbon Yet 04:17 Breckenridge Patriotic Reserve 06:30 A Bourbon Blended From All 50 States 08:38 Coors 8 Year American Malt Whiskey 09:59 Byte-Sized Review – Burnt Tavern Bourbon 17:45 Outro + Byte Club and Pride Merch

This week on the Bourbon Bytes Podcast, we’re breaking down a packed lineup of whiskey and gaming news before diving into a Byte-Sized Review of the new Maker’s Mark Steward’s Release. Old Forester announced its 2026 President’s Choice Bourbon and Rye, Barrell Craft Spirits revealed a limited Toasted Seagrass release, and Penelope is flipping its usual playbook with a new Classic Series bourbon and rye. On the gaming side, Nintendo Direct brought major Switch 2 news, including a new Kingdom Hearts 4 trailer and a surprise Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time remake announcement. We also touch on Xbox’s 25th Anniversary console, Halo: Campaign Evolved, and PlayStation’s latest State of Play. Then it’s time for the main event: Maker’s Mark Steward’s Release, the 2026 entry in the Wood Finishing Series. This release brings notes of maple syrup, vanilla, waffle cone, toasted pie crust, honeycomb, peach cobbler, and salted caramel — but does it live up to the best Maker’s Mark limited releases? 🥃 Topics covered: Old Forester President’s Choice Bourbon and Rye Barrell Craft Spirits Toasted Seagrass Penelope Classic Series Bourbon and Rye Kingdom Hearts 4 coming to Switch 2 Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time remake reveal Xbox 25th Anniversary console news Halo: Campaign Evolved update Maker’s Mark Steward’s Release review Final score and whether it’s worth $75 Would you pick this over Maker’s 46 Cask Strength or a great Private Select?   YouTube Chapters: 00:00 Intro – Old Forester, Barrell, Nintendo & Maker’s Mark 00:27 Welcome + Episode Setup 01:13 Old Forester President’s Choice 2026 02:30 Barrell Craft Spirits Toasted Seagrass 03:56 Penelope Classic Series Bourbon & Rye 05:24 Nintendo Direct + Switch 2 News 05:30 Kingdom Hearts 4 Trailer 06:10 Zelda: Ocarina of Time Remake 07:06 Xbox, Halo & PlayStation Updates 07:51 Byte-Sized Review – Maker’s Mark Steward’s Release 14:30 Outro + Where to Find Bourbon Bytes

This week on the Bourbon Bytes podcast, we’re kicking off June with a packed lineup of whiskey news and one of the most surprising reviews of the year. Four Roses just announced the start of its new Anthology Series, launching with a 21-year-old OBSF barrel-strength bourbon called The Origin. Russell’s Reserve 13 is back for Spring 2026 with a new release celebrating Eddie Russell’s 45 years of whiskey-making mastery. High West also returns with the 2026 edition of The Prisoner’s Share, now featuring High West’s own straight bourbon whiskey in the blend. On the gaming side, PlayStation’s latest State of Play brought new looks at Marvel’s Wolverine, Marvel Tokon, and Rayman Legends Retold. Then it’s time for a Byte-Sized Review of Bardstown Bourbon Company’s Distillery Reserve Mars Single Malt Japanese Blend. This limited release blends Kentucky straight bourbon aged 10 to 16 years with Japanese single malts from Mars Whisky, including whisky aged in Sakura cherry wood and Umeshu plum liqueur casks. It sounds wild on paper — but somehow, it works beautifully. At 109.8 proof and released in 375ml bottles for $100, this distillery-only experiment might be one of the best things Bardstown Bourbon Company has ever released. 🥃 Topics covered: Four Roses Anthology Series: The Origin 21 Year Russell’s Reserve 13 Spring 2026 High West The Prisoner’s Share 2026 PlayStation State of Play highlights Marvel’s Wolverine gameplay reveal Marvel Tokon announcement Rayman Legends Retold Bardstown Bourbon Company x Mars Whisky review Final score and whether this bottle is worth hunting Would you try a Kentucky bourbon blended with Japanese single malt?   00:00 Intro – Four Roses, Russell’s Reserve, High West & Bardstown Mars 00:29 Welcome + Episode Setup 00:55 Four Roses Anthology 21 Year Bourbon 03:01 Russell’s Reserve 13 Spring 2026 04:23 High West The Prisoner’s Share 2026 05:37 PlayStation State of Play Highlights 08:17 Byte-Sized Review: Bardstown Bourbon Company Mars Japanese Whisky Blend 16:08 Outro + Listener Question

This week on the Bourbon Bytes podcast, we’re talking about a packed week of whiskey news, including two new America 250 anniversary releases, the return of two E.H. Taylor classics, and one of the strangest international whiskey collaborations I’ve seen in a while. Heaven Hill is releasing the Rittenhouse U.S. 250th Anniversary Commemorative Edition Rye, a 10-year-old bottled-in-bond rye priced at $99.99. Barrell Bourbon is also joining the celebration with Batch 38, a cask-strength blend of bourbons from Kentucky, Indiana, Tennessee, and Maryland. Then, Buffalo Trace is reviving two historic E.H. Taylor releases: Four Grain Bourbon and Cured Oak Bourbon. One may be easier to find than the other, but both are exciting returns for fans of the Colonel E.H. Taylor lineup. We also dive into Bardstown Bourbon Company’s new collaboration with Mars Distilleries, blending Japanese single malt whisky with Kentucky bourbon in a first-of-its-kind release that might be brilliant… or way too complicated. Then it’s time for a Byte-Sized Review of Green River Honey Finished Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey. This new release blends real Kentucky bourbon with local honey and rests them together in a barrel. At 4 years old, 92 proof, and only $25, it might be one of the most approachable summer whiskey releases of the year. But the big question is: Is this truly a finished bourbon, or is it basically a flavored whiskey? 🥃 Topics covered: 00:00 Intro - America 250 Whiskey, E.H. Taylor & Green River Honey 00:28 Welcome + Memorial Day Recap 01:24 Rittenhouse 250th Anniversary Rye 02:55 Barrell Bourbon Batch 38 04:14 Buffalo Trace Revives E.H. Taylor Classics 06:23 Bardstown Bourbon Company Distillery Reserve Mars Single Malt Japanese Blend 13:12 Byte-Sized Review: Green River Honey Finished Bourbon 18:49 Byte Club + Outro

This week on the Bourbon Bytes podcast, Wild Turkey fans have a lot to be excited about. We’re breaking down the return of one of Wild Turkey’s most legendary bottles: the new Austin Nichols Reserve 16 Year, inspired by the mythical “Cheesy Gold Foil” Wild Turkey release from the 1980s. This new 16-year-old bourbon comes from Camp Nelson Warehouse D, is bottled at 120 proof, and marks Bruce Russell’s first solo project with the brand. We also cover two big Heaven Hill stories, including the Evan Williams America 250 Edition single barrel release bottled at 117.76 proof, plus the 2026 Heaven Hill Grain to Glass Collection, which is all about wheated bourbon this year. Then it’s time for a Byte-Sized Review of K&L Wine and Spirits’ Every Drop “Living Legend” Bourbon, a 7-year-old, 107-proof independent bottling from Lawrenceburg, Kentucky. They can’t officially say where it’s from… but let’s just say the clues are pretty loud. At only $50, this might be one of the best Wild Turkey-adjacent bourbon values I’ve tasted all year. 🥃 Topics covered: Evan Williams America 250 Edition Heaven Hill Grain to Glass 2026 Wild Turkey Gold Foil returns as Austin Nichols Reserve 16 Year Bruce Russell’s first solo Wild Turkey project K&L Every Drop “Living Legend” bourbon review Why this $50 independent bottling might be a must-buy Would you pay $400 for the new Wild Turkey Gold Foil release, or grab multiple bottles of this K&L pick instead?   Timecodes: 00:00 Intro - Wild Turkey Gold Foil Returns 00:26 Welcome + Memorial Day Weekend Dedication 01:38 Evan Williams America 250 Edition 03:04 Heaven Hill Grain to Glass 2026 04:18 Wild Turkey Gold Foil Returns 07:07 Byte-Sized Review: K&L Every Drop “Living Legend” Bourbon 13:25 Outro + Bourbon Bytes Community

This week on the Bourbon Bytes podcast, we’re diving into new whiskey releases from Blue Run, Little Book, Very Old St. Nick, 15 Stars, and one of the strangest TTB labels I’ve seen in a while: a goat milk flavored whiskey from Tamworth. On the gaming side, Microsoft is making headlines with 8,000-year Xbox bans for Forza Horizon 6 pirates, while Xbox Game Pass is adding a new Discord Nitro perk. Then it’s time for a Byte-Sized Review of King of Kentucky 16 Year Bourbon. This 2024 release from Brown-Forman is a 16-year-old Kentucky straight bourbon bottled at 132 proof, with only about 5,100 bottles released. It shares the same mash bill as Old Forester 1924, but at six years older and full barrel strength, does it live up to the King of Kentucky name? Expect deep oak, antique wood, cedar chest, dark roasted nuts, molasses, tannic richness, and a long finish. 🥃 Topics covered: Blue Run Blueprint Bourbon Little Book Chapter 10: All the Wiser Very Old St. Nick Immaculata Bourbon 15 Stars Kentucke County releases Tamworth goat milk flavored whiskey Forza Horizon 6 piracy bans Xbox Game Pass Discord Nitro perk King of Kentucky 16 Year Bourbon review Would you pay $350 for King of Kentucky if you found it at retail?   YouTube Chapter Markers 00:00 Intro – Blue Run, Little Book, Xbox & King of Kentucky 00:28 Welcome + Episode Setup 01:08 Blue Run Blueprint Bourbon 02:47 Little Book Chapter 10: All the Wiser 05:20 Very Old St. Nick Immaculata Bourbon 06:22 15 Stars Kentucke County Releases 08:01 Goat Milk Flavored Whiskey?! 09:22 Gaming News – Forza Horizon 6 Bans + Discord Nitro 11:53 Byte-Sized Review: King of Kentucky 16 Year Bourbon 20:15 Listener Samples + Outro

This week on the Bourbon Bytes podcast, it’s my birthday episode, and whiskey news got weird in the best way. Stitzel-Weller just announced a 31-year-old bourbon bottled at a wild 163.2 proof with a $3,000 price tag. Jack Daniel’s is teaming up with McLaren for the limited-edition Halo MK1 Tennessee Whiskey, and in gaming news, the new Steam Controller is already selling out while Halo 2 and Halo 3 remake rumors are heating up. Then I dive into a Byte-Sized Review of Bernheim 20th Anniversary Wheat Whiskey from Heaven Hill. This limited-edition Bernheim is 10 years old, bottled at 115 proof, and celebrates 20 years of one of the most unique American whiskey styles. I went in curious, but this one seriously surprised me with rich caramel, Halloween candy sweetness, balanced spice, and a finish that made me wonder why Bernheim doesn’t get more love. 🥃 Topics covered: Stitzel Reserve 31 Year Bourbon at 163.2 proof Jack Daniel’s x McLaren Halo MK1 Tennessee Whiskey New Steam Controller selling out Halo 2 and Halo 3 remake rumors Bernheim 20th Anniversary Wheat Whiskey review Final score and whether it’s worth hunting Would you pay $3,000 for a 31-year-old bourbon, or would you rather hunt down this Bernheim? YouTube Chapter Markers 00:00 Intro – Stitzel Reserve, Jack Daniel’s & Bernheim 00:28 Welcome to the Bourbon Bytes Podcast 01:17 Stitzel Reserve 31 Year Bourbon at 163.2 Proof 03:33 Jack Daniel’s x McLaren Halo MK1 Whiskey 05:38 New Steam Controller Sells Out 07:25 Halo 2 & Halo 3 Remake Rumors 08:49 Byte-Sized Review: Bernheim 20th Anniversary Wheat Whiskey 16:37 Byte Club Shoutout + Outro

This week on the Bourbon Bytes podcast, we’re diving into a packed week of whiskey news before heading to Northern California for a Byte-Sized Review of Redwood Empire Haystack Needle. Michter’s is releasing its first-ever Barrel Strength Sour Mash Whiskey, Maker’s Mark is back with a new edition of Star Hill Farm Whisky, Widow Jane is finishing bourbon in Tequila Ocho casks, Jack Daniel’s has a new hazmat rye release, and Four Roses is expanding its single barrel lineup. Plus, we take a quick look at upcoming video game releases, including Forza Horizon 6 and 007 First Light. Then it’s time for the main event: a review of Redwood Empire Haystack Needle, an 8 year, 7 month California bourbon single barrel pick from K&L Wine and Spirits, bottled at 119 proof. This bottle completely surprised me with bright red fruit, strawberry shortcake, dark chocolate, oak, and a finish that makes me wonder if Redwood Empire is helping define the future of California whiskey. 🥃 Topics covered: Brown-Forman sale update Michter’s Barrel Strength Sour Mash Maker’s Mark Star Hill Farm Whisky Widow Jane x Tequila Ocho bourbon Jack Daniel’s hazmat rye Four Roses single barrel expansion Forza Horizon 6 and 007 First Light Redwood Empire Haystack Needle review Would you pay $130 for a craft California bourbon like this?   Timecodes: 00:00 Intro – Michter’s, Maker’s, Jack Daniel’s & Redwood Empire 01:15 Brown-Forman Sale Update 02:02 Michter’s Barrel Strength Sour Mash 03:40 Maker’s Mark Star Hill Farm Whisky 05:44 Widow Jane x Tequila Ocho Bourbon 06:52 Jack Daniel’s Hazmat Rye Release 08:15 Four Roses Single Barrel Expansion 09:18 Video Game News – Forza Horizon 6 + 007 First Light 11:23 Byte-Sized Review – Redwood Empire Haystack Needle 17:31 Outro + Bourbon Bytes Hotline

Whiskey got wild this week. Eagle Rare just announced a 30-year-old bourbon priced at $12,500, Elijah Craig is back with another PGA Championship bottle, and Booker's Bourbon returns with its first batch of 2026. I also break down: Buffalo Trace Distillery opening the new John G. Carlisle Cafe New TTB label filings from Old Forester and Heaven Hill Whether Booker’s is still worth buying at today’s prices Then I give my full Byte-Sized Review of Knob Creek Blender’s Edition to see if Beam has a real hit on its hands. 🥃 Is it better than standard Knob Creek? 🥃 Is it worth $45? 🥃 Great neat pour… or cocktail king? Let me know what you think in the comments.   Timecodes: 00:00 Intro – Welcome to Bourbon Bytes 00:52 Eagle Rare 30 Costs $12,500 04:42 Buffalo Trace Distillery Opens New Cafe 06:36 Elijah Craig PGA Championship Bourbon 07:59 Booker's Bourbon Big Easy Batch 2026-01 09:54 New TTB Labels: Old Forester + Heaven Hill 12:22 Byte-Sized Review – Knob Creek Blender’s Edition 21:04 Outro + Byte Club Shoutouts

Whiskey might be changing in a big way. A recent appeals court ruling could potentially make home distilling legal in the United States - a move that could reshape the entire whiskey landscape. But that’s not the only shift happening right now. This week on Bourbon Bytes, I break down: The home distilling ruling and what it actually means MGP slowing production and what that signals for bourbon supply A potential deal between Sazerac and Brown-Forman Sazerac’s newly named Tennessee distillery and future plans And of course, I’m reviewing Kentucky Senator Bourbon "Jim Bunning" Release #7 to see if it lives up to the hype. 🥃 Is the whiskey boom changing direction? 🥃 And more importantly… is this bottle worth your money? Let me know your thoughts in the comments. Timecodes: 00:00 Intro – Whiskey Industry Shakeups 00:56 Home Distilling Ruling Explained 03:29 MGP Pauses Production at Lux Row & Limestone Branch 06:11 Sazerac Eyes Jack Daniel’s + Announces AJ Bond Distillery 09:13 Kentucky Senator Charity Single Barrel News 11:47 Byte-Sized Review – Kentucky Senator Release #7

Bourbon is getting strange… and expensive. This week on Bourbon Bytes, I'm breaking down some of the wildest whiskey news stories of the moment: from Costco’s viral “hot dog bourbon” to Knob Creek’s new Blender’s Edition, Buffalo Trace’s latest experiments, and Angel’s Envy pushing further into ultra-premium territory. But after all the hype, the real question is… do we actually need all this innovation? To find out, I review the new Ardbeg 10 Cask Strength—a surprisingly simple release that might prove great whiskey doesn’t need gimmicks. Is bourbon innovation going too far? And can a classic Scotch still outperform it all? 🥃 Topics: Costco “Hot Dog” Rare Character Bourbon goes viral Knob Creek Blender’s Edition explained Buffalo Trace experimental releases Angel’s Envy’s most expensive releases yet Ardbeg 10 Cask Strength review 👇 Let me know: Do you prefer experimental whiskey… or classic, straightforward pours?   Timecodes: 00:00 Intro – Bourbon Is Getting Weird 00:30 Welcome to the Bourbon Bytes Podcast 01:07 Costco “Hot Dog” Bourbon Goes Viral 03:01 Knob Creek Blender’s Edition Explained 04:55 Buffalo Trace Experimental Releases 07:24 Angel’s Envy 10 Year Rye + Cask Strength Bourbon 11:02 Ardbeg 10 Cask Strength Byte-Sized Review 17:01 Outro + Where to Listen

This week on the Bourbon Bytes Podcast, I'm breaking down some of the biggest whiskey news stories of the moment—plus a first impression review of a brand new Bardstown Bourbon Company release. 🔥 Topics include: A $549 Daniel Weller experimental release… is this getting out of hand? Jack Daniel’s 10, 12, and 14 Year lottery system A new Peerless 10-Year Bourbon Evan Williams’ Collegiate Single Barrel Series New TTB labels from Barrell, Lux Row, and Four Roses 🎮 Plus, a major shakeup in the gaming industry with layoffs at Epic Games. 🥃 Then we dive into a Byte-Sized Review of the Bardstown Bourbon Company Cascadia Garryana Oak Finish — a rare oak, toasted finish bourbon with a smoky, tobacco-forward profile and surprising sweetness. Is it worth the price… and the trip to the distillery?   00:00 – Intro & Episode Preview 01:06 – Peerless 10-Year Bourbon Announcement 02:19 – $549 Daniel Weller “Spelt Wheat” Reaction 04:04 – Evan Williams Collegiate Bottles 06:10 – Jack Daniel’s 10, 12, 14 Lottery Explained 07:46 – Speed Run: New TTB Labels (Barrell, Blood Oath, Four Roses) 10:41 – Gaming News: Epic Games Layoffs 12:22 – Byte-Sized Review: Bardstown Cascadia Overview 19:08 – Outro & Support the Show

This week on Bourbon Bytes, I’m breaking down one of the biggest trending topics in bourbon right now — recent news and rumors surrounding Green River’s master distiller. What’s actually confirmed? What’s speculation? And what could it mean for the future of the brand? Then, I dive into a full review of the brand-new Sazerac Full Proof Rye Whiskey from Sazerac. Buffalo Trace fans have been waiting for a higher-proof version of this classic rye — but does it actually deliver? I cover: The latest Green River updates and what we know so far Nose, palate, and finish of Sazerac Full Proof Rye How it compares to standard Sazerac Rye Whether it’s worth buying at MSRP Note: Any discussion of Green River is based on publicly available information and industry speculation at the time of recording.

On this week’s Bourbon Bytes Podcast, we’re covering some of the biggest whiskey news stories of the week before diving into a cult-favorite bourbon review. Topics include: 🥃 Remus Experimental Series Wheat Whiskey 🥃 Maker’s Mark 2026 Wood Finishing Series 🥃 Heaven Hill’s Deatsville campus release Then for this week’s Byte-Sized Review, I’m tasting Evan Williams 12 Year Red Label Bourbon, a Heaven Hill export that’s become a favorite among bourbon fans. Often only available in Japan, this bottle has developed a reputation for delivering well-aged bourbon at a surprisingly reasonable price. Does it live up to the hype? Let’s find out.   Chapters: 00:00 Intro – Whiskey News + Today’s Review 01:14 Remus Experimental Series Wheat Whiskey 03:13 Maker’s Mark "The Steward's Release" 2026 Wood Finishing Series 06:31 Heaven Hill Deatsville Bourbon Release 09:22 Byte-Sized Review – Evan Williams 12 Year Red Label 17:58 Final Thoughts & Wrap Up

On this week’s episode of the Bourbon Bytes Podcast, I’m catching up on the latest whiskey and gaming news before diving into a unique bottle that raises an interesting question… Can Kentucky make good tequila? Today’s Byte-Sized Review features the Nulu Extra Añejo Blue Agave Spirit from Prohibition Craft Spirits — distilled in Tequila, Mexico but aged in Kentucky bourbon barrels. It’s a fascinating crossover between the worlds of bourbon and agave spirits, and I’m breaking down whether this experiment actually works. Along the way we’ll also talk about: 🥃 The return of High West Bourye 2026 🥃 New Heaven Hill Heritage Collection releases 🥃 A new Build Your Own Bourbon Trail experience in Kentucky 🎮 The announcement of Pokémon Winds and Pokémon Waves. Then we’ll taste the Nulu Blue Agave Spirit and see if Kentucky aging gives this agave spirit a bourbon lover’s twist. Is it a gimmick… or something truly unique? Explore Chapters using the timecodes below: 00:00 Can Kentucky Make Good Tequila? Intro + Whiskey News 01:20 High West Bourye 2026 Returns 02:56 New Heaven Hill Heritage Collection Release 04:33 Bernheim 20th Anniversary 10 Year Small Batch Wheat Whiskey 6:10 The Return of Sagamore 10 Rye Whiskey 07:24 Build Your Own Bourbon Trail Experience 09:17 Lux Row Opens Invitations to "The Front Row" VIP Experience 10:24 Nintendo Announces Pokémon Winds and Pokémon Waves for Switch 2 12:08 Byte-Sized Review – Nulu Extra Añejo Blue Agave Spirit 19:18 Final Thoughts & Wrap Up

This week on the Bourbon Bytes Podcast, I’m diving into the brand-new Redbreast Moscatel Wine Cask Edition — the latest release in the Iberian Series — to see if this sweet Spanish cask finish lives up to the hype. Does Moscatel bring bold citrus and floral complexity… or is it too dessert-like for a classic single pot still Irish whiskey? I break down the nose, palate, finish, value, and where this release ranks among other Iberian Series bottles — plus whether it’s worth grabbing at retail. Timecodes below to jump straight to the review 👇 00:00 – Welcome + What’s in This Episode 01:13 – Whiskey News: World Whiskies Awards 2026 Winners 07:53 – Whiskey News: 2026 Michter's Celebration Sour Mash Whiskey Announced 09:54 – Whiskey News: Penelope 7 Year Old Barrel Strength Bourbon 11:25 – Whiskey News: Pinhook Vertical Series 10 Year Old Rye Whiskey 13:00 – Byte-Sized Review: Redbreast Moscatel Wine Cask Edition Irish Whiskey 21:30 – Final Thoughts & Wrap-Up

This week on the Bourbon Bytes Podcast, I’m covering major whiskey headlines from around the world — including: 🥃 A new cask strength Ardbeg release 🥃 A wine-finished Redbreast from Ireland 🥃 An 18-year-old hazmat release from Barrell Craft Spirits And then… we get to the main event. Last year, Green River Full Proof Bourbon was my #1 whiskey of 2025. Now they’ve released a Wheated Full Proof Bourbon — and I’m giving my honest, independent take; breaking down the nose, palate, finish, value, and whether this one earns a spot on my shelf. Is it a worthy follow-up? Does swapping rye for wheat change the magic? And can it live up to the hype? Let’s find out. 🎧 Listen now and join the conversation in the Discord: bourbonbytes.com   Chapter markers: 00:00 – Welcome + Episode Overview 01:32 – Ardbeg 10 Cask Strength Committee Release 02:57 – Redbreast Muscatel Finished Irish Whiskey 04:17 – Barrell Craft Spirits 18-Year Hazmat Curacao Finished Whiskey 06:04 – Byte-Sized Review: Green River Full Proof Wheated Bourbon 15:37 – Listener Shoutout & Where to Follow

This week on Bourbon Bytes, I’m digging into a tequila-finished American single malt from Copperworks Distilling and breaking down whether this experimental cask finish actually works. I also cover whiskey headlines, new releases, and industry chatter before delivering a full ‘Byte-Sized Review’ of the Copperworks American Single Malt finished in Arette tequila casks. From malt-forward sweetness to chocolate notes and surprising agave influence, I share exactly what stood out and where this bottle lands on my scale. If you love experimental finishes, American single malt, or just honest tasting notes beyond the hype, this one’s for you. Join the conversation in our Discord and tell me what you think: bourbonbytes.com   Timecodes: 00:00 Welcome to Bourbon Bytes   1:51 Whiskey News: Garisson Brothers 6yr Bottled-In-Bond Bourbon 3:56 Whiskey News: Return of New Riff Balboa Rye Whiskey 5:01 Whiskey News: Rebel Root Beer Whiskey Returns 5:51 Whiskey News: Buffalo Trace's 'Charred and Chilled Festival' 7:28 Video Game News: Ubisoft Cancels Prince of Persia: Sands of Time Remake 10:07 Video Game News: Microsoft's New 'Fable' Revealed 11:10 Byte Sized Review: Copperworks Arette Tequila Cask Finished American Single Malt Whiskey 20:32 Final Thoughts & Outro

This week on the Bourbon Bytes Podcast, we’re getting into the Bardstown Bourbon Company rebrand that has the whiskey internet fully divided — and I’m using it as a jumping-off point to talk bottle redesigns across the industry. Then it’s time for a Byte-Sized Review of Bardstown Bourbon Company Bottled-in-Bond (6-year wheated bourbon, 100 proof) — and… yeah, it surprised me in the best way. 💬 Join the conversation (and see label comparisons): bourbonbytes.com → Discord 📩 Contact: [email protected] 📱 Social: @bourbonbytes   Timecodes: 00:00 Cold Open: Bardstown’s controversial rebrand + what’s ahead 00:31 Welcome (Week of Jan 29, 2026) 03:17 Bardstown Bourbon Company Bold Rebrand 12:20 Rapid-fire rebrand takes (Weller, OF 1920, WT101, etc.) 21:06 Byte-Sized Review: Bardstown Bourbon Company Bottled-in-Bond Bourbon

This week on Bourbon Bytes (a whiskey podcast with a gaming twist), I’m covering a couple big whiskey headlines, a Lunar New Year Scotch release, and some gaming news that has me genuinely hyped. 🥃 Whiskey News Knob Creek drops a new Eli Manning single barrel collab Woodford Reserve Double Double Oaked (2026) expands beyond distillery-only (but that price…) Tomatin Year of the Horse 14 Year (PX sherry butt, cask strength) sounds dangerously good 🎮 Gaming News RuneScape turns 25 (year-long celebration) New Life is Strange: Reunion details + release date Ranger’s Path: National Park Simulator looks like my exact kind of cozy chaos ⭐ Byte-Sized Review I review the George Dickel x Leopold Bros Collaboration Blend Three Chamber Rye and break down the unique floral profile, value at MSRP, and why it became a killer Manhattan rye. Listen, rate, and drop your takes in the Discord: bourbonbytes.com   See timecodes below to navigate the episode: 00:00 Cold Open: Knob Creek, Woodford, RuneScape + the Rye Review 00:30 Welcome + What’s in this episode 01:02 Knob Creek x Eli Manning Single Barrel 03:22 Woodford Double Double Oaked 2026 06:31 Tomatin Year of the Horse 14 Year (2011) 07:30 Gaming News: RuneScape turns 25 08:59 Gaming News: Life is Strange: Reunion 10:38 Gaming News: Ranger’s Path National Park Simulator 12:55 Byte-Sized Review: George Dickel x Leopold Bros Three Chamber Rye 21:52 Wrap-up + where to follow

I'm back from a short break and kicking off the new year with a packed episode of the Bourbon Bytes Podcast! This week we're catching up on the biggest whiskey stories you may have missed — including a brand new Old Fitzgerald from Heaven Hill, a cask strength release from High West, and a look at the highs and lows of Irish whiskey through the end of 2025. But the star of the show is a very special viewer-sent sample: Van Winkle Special Reserve Lot B. I finally sit down to give this legendary bourbon an honest review — no hype, no pressure, just my genuine thoughts on whether Lot B still earns its place in the modern bourbon world. Navigate the full episode below using the chapter markers!   00:00 – Episode Teaser: Bourbon News + Lot B Review 00:33 – Welcome Back from the Mid-Season Break 01:39 – Whiskey News #1: Old Fitzgerald Fall 2025 (11 Year BIB) 03:18 – Whiskey News #2: High West Cask Strength Bourbon Announced 05:21 – Whiskey News #3: Frey Ranch 100% Barley Whiskey 07:28 – Whiskey News #4: Wyoming Whiskey National Parks #5 – The Tetons 09:52 – Irish Whiskey Boom vs Teeling’s 91% Profit Drop 13:20 – Van Winkle Lot B Bourbon (Byte-Sized Review) 22:03 – Final Score: Van Winkle Lot B 22:55 – Outro: Thanks, How to Listen, and Share Bourbon Bytes

The final Bourbon Bytes Podcast episode of 2025 is here, and it’s a big one. In this episode, Clifton wraps up the year with honest reflections on the future of Bourbon Bytes, the bourbon industry heading into 2026, and a "Byte-Sized Review" of the brand-new Willett Family Estate Small Batch 4 Year Cask Strength Bourbon. Willett is one of the most polarizing names in whiskey, and this new four-year-old, cask strength release has sparked plenty of debate. Is it a promising step forward for Willett’s own distillate, or does the price and presentation lean too hard on hype? Clifton breaks down the nose, palate, finish, value, and expectations while also sharing broader thoughts on availability, pricing, and what bourbon drinkers may see more of in the coming year. Whiskey news, honest reviews, and real talk to close out 2025. Cheers, and see you in 2026 🥃 00:00 – Welcome & Final Episode of 2025 02:30 – End-of-Year Reflections & 2026 Outlook 04:32 – Where Bourbon Bytes Is Headed Next 08:06 – Thoughts on the Bourbon Market in 2026 12:20 – Byte-Sized Review: Willett Family Estate Small Batch 4 Year Bourbon 23:05 – Listener Questions & Closing Thoughts

This week on the Bourbon Bytes Podcast, Clifton breaks down a massive wave of upcoming whiskey releases for 2026 — including the rumored return of Knob Creek 12-Year Cask Strength, a newly labeled 7-Year Old Grandad 114, Penelope’s new Madagascar Cognac Finish, Blood Oath Pact 12, Lou Gehrig Remus Reserve, a permanent Templeton Rye Double Oak, and a special 250th Anniversary Rittenhouse 10-Year Bottled-in-Bond. Then, it’s time for a Byte-Sized Review of one of the most unique American Single Malts of the year: Copperworks Kilt Lifter Whiskey — a collaboration decades in the making between Copperworks Distilling and Pike Brewing. A wild pine-forward nose gives way to a layered palate with floral brightness, cinnamon oatmeal, and a sweet Cinnabon-like finish. At $60 and 100 proof, Clifton calls it one of the most “recognizable and memorable” whiskeys he’s tried all year. Plus: Civilization VII gets a major free DLC update, and two new games hit the market this week — Metroid Prime 4: Beyond on Switch 2 and Microsoft Flight Simulator (PS5), complete with its new Stranger Things “Hawkins” expansion.   00:00 - Intro & Why 2026 Whiskey Releases Are Exploding 01:20 - Knob Creek 12 Cask Strength: The Return? 03:03 - Old Grandad 114 Single Barrel (7-Year!) 04:12 - Penelope Madagascar Cognac Release 04:43 - Blood Oath Pact 12 Red Wine Finish 05:49 - Remus “Lou Gehrig” Reserve Mashbill Breakdown 07:24 - Templeton Rye Double Oak Announcement 08:23 - Rittenhouse 10-Year Bottled-in-Bond for 250th Anniversary 09:57 - Whiskey of the Year: Elijah Craig Barrel-Proof Rye 11:58 - Gaming News: Civ VII Free DLC + Huge Updates 14:47 - Gaming News: Metroid Prime 4 & Microsoft Flight Simulator Stranger Things Pack 15:52 - Byte-Sized Review: Copperworks Kilt Lifter Whiskey 23:46 - Closing & Tease for Next Week’s Tequila Cask Review

This week, Clifton covers some of the final big whiskey drops of 2025, including new releases from Clyde May’s, Central Waters’ new Great Blue line, State Line Distillery’s debut 5-year rye, and the dramatic relaunch of Copper & Kings under new ownership. Then it’s time for one of the most surprising pours of the year: Bruichladdich Laddie Rye — a 100-proof, 7-year Islay-grown rye-and-barley hybrid that tastes like nothing else on the market. Plus: Palmer Luckey’s newest retro console — the ModRetro M64 — might be the most exciting gaming hardware of the year.

It’s Black Friday/Cyber Monday Week, and I’m sharing the best whiskey deals, distillery sales, merch discounts, and bottle drops worth your money this season. Whether you’re stocking your bar or shopping for bourbon lovers, I’ve got the highlights you need so you don’t have to scan every mailing list yourself. Then, I crack open the 2025 Town Branch Imperium Bourbon — a 105-proof, wheated bourbon blend with notes of dark chocolate–covered cherry, caramel, and cedar-driven oak tannin. Is it worth the $120 price tag? I share my honest verdict. Episode includes: 🥃 Dark Arts Cellar Sale details 🥃 Deanston 15 Year Tequila Cask Black Friday Drop 🥃 Buffalo Trace, Jim Beam & High West Merch Discounts 📘 Whiskey Advocate 2-Year Subscription Deal 🔥 Byte-Sized Review: Town Branch Imperium Bourbon (MMXXV)

This week, Clifton digs into one of the biggest questions in whiskey: Is the bourbon boom finally over? After years of price hikes, expansions, and dwindling enthusiasm from younger drinkers, the numbers might finally be catching up. In this episode, he breaks down why the boom may be slowing — and why that might actually be good for bourbon fans. Then stick around for a Byte-Sized Review of a bottle he’s never tried before: the Ben Holladay 6-Year Bottled-In-Bond Bourbon. This Missouri-made BIB surprised him with dusty vintage notes, toasted sweetness, and a mash bill that might be one of the most exciting non-Kentucky profiles in years. Plus: new whiskey releases from Buffalo Trace, Barrell Craft Spirits, Blade & Bow, and more.

This week, Clifton dives into the newest limited-edition release from the Lone Star State: the Garrison Brothers Sonora Bourbon, a seven-year, 108-proof expression finished in rye barrels. Crafted under the guidance of Samantha Olvera, Texas’s first female Latina distiller, Sonora is more than just a whiskey, it’s a celebration of women shaping the future of bourbon. Plus, he covers the biggest whiskey headlines of the week, including: 🥃 The return of Michter’s 20-Year-Old Bourbon 🥃 Little Book Infinite Edition II – a blend of Beam family legacy 🎮 Call of Duty Black Ops 7 launch week 🎮 Indie spotlight on Videoverse and PS5-exclusive Code Violet   00:00 - Intro & Welcome Back 01:06 - Whiskey News: 2025 Michter’s 20 Year Bourbon 03:26 - Whiskey News: Little Book Infinite Edition II 05:02 - New Whiskeys from Still Austin, Castle & Key, Old Potrero, Paul John 08:55 - Woodford Reserve x Markarian 2025 Holiday Bottle 10:08 - Video Game News: Call of Duty Black Ops 7, Videoverse, Code Violet 13:02 - Byte-Sized Review: Garrison Brothers Sonora Bourbon 22:18 - Closing & Upcoming Live Stream Guests

This week, Clifton dives into one of the most talked-about limited releases of the year — the 2025 Russell’s Reserve 13 Year Bourbon. Is the $200 price tag justified, or is nostalgia doing the heavy lifting? Plus, there’s a full flight of whiskey news, including: Jack Daniel’s massive new 3-liter bottle Glencairn Glass celebrating 25 years Big new Scotch and single malt releases from Arran, Cutty Sark, and East London Liquor Company Lost Lantern’s bold new American Single Malt collection And in this week’s Byte-Sized Review, Clifton gives his honest first-crack take on Russell’s 13 — from the oak-heavy nose to the vanilla-bean palate and long, spicy finish.

Clifton closes out Bourbon Boos 2025 with a bang — and a cloud of smoke! 💨 This week’s spooky pour is Smokehead Islay Single Malt Scotch, a bold, affordable peated whisky that just might be the surprise of the series. For under $40, does it hold its own against bigger Islay names? Plus, new whiskey announcements from around the world: 🥃 Heaven Hill’s Grain-to-Glass Specialty Barrel Series 🌴 The Glenlivet 12-Year Jamaica Edition Rum-Cask Finish 🪵 A Midwinter Night’s Dram Act 13 and Old Overholt Cask Strength 12 Year Tune in for peat, price talk, and one last Halloween pour that proves not every spooky bottle is a trick. 🎃

It’s another Bourbon Boos review, and this week Clifton braves one of the strangest bottles yet — Buchanan’s Pineapple “Spirit Drink.” 🥃🍍 Technically not even whisky, this scotch-based pineapple blend surprised him more than expected. Is it a tropical treat or a tiki bar tragedy? Tune in to find out! Plus, this week’s whiskey news covers: 🔥 Elijah Craig Barrel-Proof Rye 💪 Russell’s Reserve’s Highest-Proof Bourbon Yet 🤖 The Rise of “Whiskey House” — A Fully Automated Distillery Grab your glass (and maybe some ice) — it’s time to get spooky, sweet, and slightly skeptical.

This week’s Bourbon Boos review might be the scariest pour yet… Clifton cracks open a $16 bottle of King’s Creek Tennessee Sour Mash Whiskey, a bottom-shelf mystery brand with no known distillery and a whole lot of red flags. Does it surprise him, or haunt his palate forever? But before the horrors begin, we’ve got MAJOR whiskey news: ✈️ Flaviar’s $270 “FlaviAIR” Advent Calendar takes flight 🔥 Kilchoman drops an 11-Year Sherry Cask Scotch 🥃 New American whiskey releases from Copperworks, Sagamore, Milam & Greene, and Pinhook 🦬 AND the full Buffalo Trace Antique Collection 2025 lineup, featuring the first-ever E.H. Taylor Bottled-in-Bond addition Then it’s time for a truly frightening pour in this week’s Bourbon Boos Byte-Sized Review.

Spooky season has arrived, and Clifton’s diving into bottles he’s been too scared to try… starting with Dough Ball Cookie Dough Flavored Whiskey. 🥶 In this week’s episode of the Bourbon Bytes Podcast, we’re tasting a whiskey that’s more dessert than dram — plus, we’ve got big whiskey news: 🥃 Knob Creek 21-Year Bourbon is here 🍯 Forward Slash Incantation Vol. 2 is a mead-finished bourbon with serious Halloween vibes ❄️ A Midwinter Night’s Dram Act 13 returns 🎸 And… fans call the Rock Band 4 delisting “a crime against gaming!” Clifton shares his honest take on Dough Ball’s melted chocolate and toasted cookie flavors. Does it actually deliver, or belong in a candy shop instead of your whiskey shelf?

Whiskey heists, billion-dollar gaming buyouts, and a rare single malt review? This week’s episode of the Bourbon Bytes Podcast covers it all. Clifton dives into the jaw-dropping $1 million Westland Distillery heist, breaks down the shocking $55B buyout of Electronic Arts, and closes things out with a Byte-Sized Review of Single Cask Nation’s Westland American Single Malt. It’s whiskey news, gaming drama, and one of the fruitiest American single malts I’ve ever tasted. Cheers, and Game On! 🥃🎮

This week on Bourbon Bytes, Clifton reviews the Frank August Small Batch Kentucky Straight Bourbon — recently crowned World’s Best Bourbon at the 2025 IWSC. At 100 proof and $70 retail, does this sleek decanter hold a whiskey worthy of the title, or is transparency (or lack thereof) its biggest flaw? Tune in for a full breakdown, tasting notes, and final score. Also in whiskey & gaming news: 🏎 Jim Beam teams up with Cadillac’s F1 Team for 2026 🍁 Canada drops retaliatory tariffs on Kentucky bourbon 🎮 Civilization 7 dev Firaxis hit by layoffs after launch 🎵 Daft Punk enters Fortnite with a 31-song experience

This week on Bourbon Bytes, Clifton reviews the 2025 Weller Full Proof Bourbon — a rich, wheated Buffalo Trace release bursting with fall bakery notes, buttery pie crust, and toasted vanilla. Does it live up to its hype (and price tag) compared to Weller 107 and other wheated bourbons? Tune in for the full breakdown and rating. Also in whiskey & gaming news: 🥃 Buffalo Trace unveils the 2025 Pappy Van Winkle Collection (including a one-of-a-kind 25-year-old bottle) 🔥 Elijah Craig drops its youngest barrel proof batch ever at just 9 years old 🎮 The September Nintendo Direct delivers huge announcements: Super Mario Galaxy movie & bundle, a new Yoshi game, and Pokémon Pokopia — the cozy Pokémon life sim we never knew we needed!

This week on Bourbon Bytes, I take a deep dive into the 2015 Parker’s Heritage 8-Year Malt Whiskey - a rare and experimental Heaven Hill release that was way ahead of its time. How does it hold up nearly a decade later, and why didn’t Heaven Hill continue down the malt path? Also in whiskey news: 🥃 Booker’s The Reserves 2025 gets a bold tequila barrel finish 🌳 Woodford Reserve Master’s Collection “Sweet Oak” rolls out in rare chinquapin oak barrels 🌾 Heaven Hill Grain-to-Glass Wheated Bourbon with a unique mash bill 🏭 Angel’s Envy drops two distillery-only exclusives 🎟️ Buffalo Trace Elmer T. Lee Charity Sweepstakes offers an incredible behind-the-scenes prize

This week on Bourbon Bytes, I dive into the world of Scotch with a review of Compass Box’s Transatlanticism (2024 release) — a limited-edition blend crafted with help from whiskey reviewer T8ke and industry veteran Will Schragis. How does this $199 bottle stack up against Compass Box favorites like Orchard House and Glasgow Blend? Plus: 🥃 Woodford Reserve surprises with its first-ever 12-Year American Single Malt 🏆 Michter’s named “Most Admired Whiskey in the World” (again) 🐉 Catoctin Creek goes full fantasy with DracoMalt, a dragon-inspired American single malt collab 🎮 And in gaming: Hollow Knight: Silksong finally launches + a stacked September of new releases!

This week on Bourbon Bytes, I review the brand-new 2025 High West Bourye, the annual limited release blending straight bourbon and rye whiskey. How does this year’s edition stack up against past favorites, and is it worth the hunt? Plus, big whiskey headlines: Maker’s Mark brings back its Cellar Aged Bourbon, High West launches its first Bottled-in-Bond release aged at 4,000 ft, and Penelope Bourbon reveals a premium 2025 Estate Collection.

Clifton dives into some of the hottest whiskey news of the year: Old Forester shakes things up with a sweet mash Birthday Bourbon, Four Roses unveils its 2025 Limited Edition Small Batch, and Elijah Craig tees off with the PGA Quail Hollow Championship Edition. How does this commemorative release stack up against past special collaborations? Plus, we celebrate the end of the SAG-AFTRA video game strike and what it means for the future of gaming.

It’s a head-to-head battle of Michter’s 2025 Legacy Series releases — the sweet and delicate Shenk’s Homestead (91.2 proof) vs. the bold and oaky Bomberger’s Declaration (108 proof). I break down their unique cask choices, share full nose/palate impressions, and crown my pick for the better buy. Plus, two distilleries step up big to support flood relief in Kentucky and Texas — proof that good bourbon can do good in the world.

Clifton breaks down one of the boldest store picks he's tried in a while: a 128-proof Knob Creek Cask Strength Single Barrel from K&L Wine Merchants. Along the way, he dives into hot whiskey news, including the experimental 2025 Parker’s Heritage release, a Hungarian oak-aged "bourbon" from A. Smith Bowman, and legendary game developer Hideo Kojima’s critique of the modern video game industry. Plus, a listener call-in asks what releases Clifton’s most excited for in the second half of the year.

This week on the Bourbon Bytes Podcast, Clifton takes you behind the blue wax to review the Maker’s Mark Champion Selection, handpicked by the Los Angeles Dodgers to celebrate their 2024 World Series win. He dives into hot whiskey headlines—Buffalo Trace's bold Weller 18 release, heirloom corn making waves at craft distilleries, and Old Forester’s 1910 Extra Extra Old. Plus, find out which distillery just dominated the 2025 New Orleans Spirits Competition.

This week on Bourbon Bytes, Clifton dives into some of the hottest headlines in the whiskey world—from Buffalo Trace’s surprising new 100-proof Sazerac Rye to their bold move into sustainable distilling. Plus, Hidden Barn adds a new Master Taster to their team. But the star of the show? Clifton’s first-ever sip of TINCUP 6-Year American Whiskey—a bold, oak-forward blend of bourbon and Colorado single malt that left a lasting impression.

In this jam-packed episode, Clifton dives into the latest bourbon headlines — from Buffalo Trace’s mysterious E.H. Taylor Jr. Distiller's Council release to A. Smith Bowman’s award-winning rye and Starlight’s 10-Year debut. But the main event? A first sip of the brand-new Louisiana Senator Bourbon, a bold 8-year whiskey from the creators of Kentucky Senator, crafted in collaboration with Potter Jane Distillery. Is this small batch release the next cult classic? Tune in for a Byte-Sized Review and find out what makes this one unforgettable.

This week on Bourbon Bytes, Clifton is diving deep into high-proof territory with a first-time review of Blanton’s Straight from the Barrel — the most elusive (and explosive) bottle in the Blanton’s lineup. How does it hold up to the hype, and is it worth chasing down? Also on the table: three six-year bourbons you need to know — a Single Barrel Selection from New Riff, Castle & Key’s Small Batch Six-Year Bourbon, and Garrison Brother's 2025 Guadalupe Bourbon supporting Texas conservation. Whether you’re all about barrel strength or on the hunt for value, this episode’s got you covered.