
There's Now A National Bourbon Week. Here's Where And How To Celebrate
Whiskey lovers: There's a new, weeklong celebration for you. The second annual National Bourbon Week is set to return in 2025, with a full schedule of festivities taking place in the Bourbon Capital of the World.
From June 9th through 15th in Bardstown, Kentucky, distilleries will partner with restaurants, hospitality groups, musical acts, and more to celebrate bourbon and the community surrounding it. Bardstown's self-proclaimed moniker—Bourbon Capital of the World—stems from its central role in the industry, and the surrounding area boasts an incredibly high concentration of whiskey producers both big and small.
Jim Beam, Heaven Hill, Maker's Mark, Bardstown Bourbon Company, Barton1792, Lux Row, Preservation, Old SteelHouse, and Log Still are among the area distilleries taking part. National Bourbon Week is a relatively new collaboration between area distilleries and local tourism groups to encourage events in late spring/early summer. (As a former Bardstown resident, I can personally attest June is a prime time to visit, right before the summer heat really kicks in.)
The slate of events throughout the week includes whiskey, music, culinary experiences, and more. Events start Monday and run all the way through Sunday, June 15th. Some highlights include (via a non-exhaustive list):
A number of family-friendly events will also take place, including a new (and free to attend) Kids Zone on June 14th. All events are held independently, so visitors and locals alike can pick and choose the itinerary that works best for them.
And for those who would rather sip local brews, Bardstown Rotary Club will host a beer garden on Saturday, June 14th.
'This weeklong celebration is a true toast to the spirit, craftsmanship, and community that make us so special,' says Stacey Phelps, president of Visit Bardstown. 'Whether you're a seasoned enthusiast or just discovering your love for bourbon, there's no better place to be than Bardstown during National Bourbon Week.'
Located around a 45 minute drive south of Louisville, Bardstown is a longtime center of whiskey production and an integral stop on Kentucky's Bourbon Trail. In addition to more than ten distilleries and bottling facilities in the surrounding area, Bardstown is also home the the Oscar Getz Museum of Bourbon History.
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Forbes
5 days ago
- Forbes
America's Best Bourbon-According To The New Orleans Spirits Competition
Orleans and Bourbon intersection Streets Sign. Held in conjunction with Tails of the Cocktail, the New Orleans Spirit Competition is one of America's top whiskey judgings, getty The New Orleans Spirits Competition (NOSC) is an annual, internationally recognized spirits judging event held in conjunction with Tales of the Cocktail, one of the world's premier cocktail festivals. Established in 2022, the competition quickly gained credibility for its expert panels, rigorous standards, and focus on both craft and large-scale producers. Below are the top bourbons from the 2025 NOSC spirits judging. Heaven Hill's Bottled-in-Bond expression pays homage to one of America's most enduring whiskey traditions, reflecting the standards of the 1897 Bottled-in-Bond Act. It's aged a minimum of four years, bottled at 100 proof, and distilled by a single distillery within a single distilling season. This straight bourbon, typically aged for around seven years, showcases the craftsmanship and legacy of Heaven Hill. The whiskey features aromas of caramel, vanilla, cornbread, accented by toasted oak and a hint of black pepper. It's rich and full-bodied on the palate, showcasing flavors of toffee, charred oak, nutmeg, and baking spices, balanced by dark honey and a touch of dried orange zest. The finish is long, sweet, and flavorful, with lingering notes of wood spices, seasoned oak tannins, and vanilla. This approachable small-batch bourbon honors the founding year of Evan Williams' original distillery. Aged longer than the standard Black Label, it delivers remarkable smoothness and depth for its price point. The whiskey features aromas of vanilla and caramel with hints of seasoned oak, roasted nuts, and a trace of fresh buttered corn. It's smooth, with a candied sweetness on the palate, showcasing notes of brown sugar, marshmallow, and subtle cinnamon spice. The finish is long and sweet, with lingering notes of seasoned oak and vanilla. Starlight Distillery Carl T. Indiana Straight Bourbon Whiskey, 46% ABV, 750 ml. $45 Starlight Distillery, part of the Huber family's farm operations in Indiana, blends heritage agriculture with modern distillation techniques. Carl T. is their flagship bourbon, named after patriarch Carl T. Huber. Aged four to five years in new charred oak, it captures the terroir of the Midwest grain belt. The bourbon is a blend of two mash bills: a three-grain mash bill of 60% corn, 20% rye, and 20% malted barley, and a four-grain mash bill of 51% corn, 20% rye, 20% malted barley, and 9% wheat. The whiskey features aromas of roasted corn, ripe apple, cinnamon, and baking spices. It's smooth and flavorful on the palate, showcasing caramelized sugar, dark fruit, graham cracker, and a gentle rye spice backbone. The finish is medium-long and sweet with lingering notes of wood spices, chocolate, and fruitcake flavors. A sample of bourbon whiskey in a glass being evaluated. getty Heaven Hill Grain to Glass Traditional Barrel Series, Wheated Bourbon, 60.5% ABV, 700 ml. $152 Part of Heaven Hill's limited Grain to Glass initiative, this wheated bourbon spotlights local grains and traditional fermentation and distillation techniques. It showcases the softer, sweeter character of wheat as the secondary grain in the mash bill. Aged for 5-10 years, it's six years old on average. The whiskey is matured on floors three, four, and five in rickhouse W3. The bourbon features aromas of buttery pastry, dried cherry, cinnamon toast, and honeysuckle. It's smooth and velvety on the palate, with flavors of baked apple, butterscotch, almond nougat, and spiced honey. The finish is long and silky, with lingering notes of wood spices, cooked grain sweetness, and a subtle hint of aged tobacco leaf. Old Grand-Dad 16 Year Old Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, 50% ABV, 750 ml. $206 This ultra-aged expression from the storied Old Grand-Dad label is a rare gem. Distilled from a high-rye mash bill and matured for 16 years, it offers a powerful and complex profile. It's bottled at a robust proof, featuring intense flavors and appealing to seasoned bourbon drinkers. The bourbon features intense aromas of leather, burnt sugar, aged tobacco, and stewed black cherries. It's robust and spicy on the palate, showcasing bold rye spices, black pepper, dark chocolate, black walnut, molasses, and charred oak. The finish is exceptionally long with lingering notes of black pepper, rye spices, and a dry, earthy leather note. Green River 1885, Kentucky Straight Bourbon, 42.5% ABV, 750 ml. $30 Revived in Owensboro, Kentucky, Green River is one of the oldest bourbon brands in the state. This young but lively bourbon is part of the brand's comeback, emphasizing high-quality production even at a youthful age. The mash bill consists of 76% corn, 15% rye, and 9% malted barley. The bourbon features aromas of vanilla pudding, cooked grain, and cinnamon candy. It's light-bodied on the palate and slightly sweet, showcasing flavors of cornbread, green apple, caramel drizzle, and allspice. The finish is relatively short, crisp and spicy, with lingering notes of toasted oak, caramel and black pepper. Blackland Prairie Gold Texas Straight Bourbon Whiskey, 50% ABV, 750 ml. $87 Crafted in Fort Worth, Texas, this bold Texas bourbon is made from a proprietary grain bill that includes flint corn and triticale. The intense Texas heat accelerates the maturation process, creating a robust and flavorful spirit even at a young age. The whiskey features aromas of mesquite, molasses, roasted corn, and saddle leather. It's robust and full-flavored on the palate, showcasing flavors of charred wood, dark fruit compote, chili pepper, and wood spices. The finish is long and intense, with lingering notes of charred oak, dried herbs, and a savory, slightly saline note. Elijah Craig Toasted Barrel, Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, 63.5% ABV, 750 ml. $62 This innovative expression takes traditional Elijah Craig Small Batch and finishes it in custom-toasted new oak barrels. The toasting process enhances sweetness and wood influence without overwhelming char, making this a cult favorite. The bourbon features aromas of toasted marshmallow, graham cracker, dark caramel, and a hint of cocoa. It's rich and sweet on the palate with dessert-like flavors of vanilla custard, cinnamon toast, maple, and roasted nuts. The finish is long, sweet, and velvety, with lingering notes of wood spices, chocolate, seasoned oak, and caramel. Low Gap Old Fussbudget 8 Year, Cask Strength Straight Bourbon, 46% ABV, 750 ml. $130 Produced in small batches in Mendocino County, California, Low Gap is known for its grain-to-glass approach. The Old Fussbudget is a high-proof, barrel-finished bourbon aged for eight years and often showcases a range of finishing casks such as port or sherry. The mash bill consists of 65% corn, 20% malted barley, and 15% malted rye. The bourbon features aromas of fig, pipe tobacco, espresso, and plum jam. It's intense and full-bodied on the palate, with dark chocolate, wood spices, prune, dried herbs, and candied citrus zest. The finish is long, dry, and warming with lingering notes of oak, bittersweet cocoa, and wood spices. The bourbons honored at the 2025 New Orleans Spirits Competition reflect the incredible diversity and creativity shaping America's whiskey landscape today. Whether drawn from deep Kentucky roots or crafted by rising stars in Indiana, Texas, or California, each expression embodies a unique perspective on America's native spirit. From the accessible charm of Evan Williams 1783 to the bold maturity of Old Granddad 16-Year-Old, these award-winning bourbons deliver a rich spectrum of aromas, textures, and finishes that speak to both heritage and innovation. For collectors, connoisseurs, and curious sippers alike, these top NOSC medalists offer a masterclass in what makes American bourbon so globally revered. More From Forbes


Forbes
6 days ago
- Forbes
Goose Island's 2025 Bourbon County Stout Lineup Is Stacked With Praline, Cherries, And Rye Barrel Magic
2025 Bourbon County Stout lineup Goose Island If there's one beer release that turns stout fans into full-on line campers each fall, it's Goose Island's Bourbon County Stout. For more than three decades, this legendary brew has been the ultimate reward for waiting out the chill—an imperial stout so rich, boozy, and barrel-kissed that it basically invented its own category. And this year, Goose Island is back with a lineup that's bigger, bolder, and, thanks to some new packaging, even easier to enjoy. Bourbon County Stout has one of those 'happy accident' origin stories that became craft beer legend. Back in 1992, Goose Island brewmaster Greg Hall had the wild idea to pour a rich, boozy stout into used Jim Beam bourbon barrels—something nobody else was really doing at the time. The result? A smooth, complex beast of a beer, bursting with vanilla, oak, chocolate, and (of course) bourbon — and it was a hit. Since then, Bourbon County Stout has spawned all kinds of barrel-aged spinoffs—think coffee, cherries, and even wheatwine—and helped kick off the barrel-aging craze that's now a craft beer staple. 'Having been fortunate enough to try the very first Bourbon County Stout in 1992 when it was draft-only at our pub, I've witnessed the birth—and every evolution—of Bourbon County Brand Stout,' Todd Ahsmann, President of Goose Island Beer Co said in a statement. 'As pioneers of barrel-aged stouts, we've always evolved to meet the moment and the drinker. This new bottle for our Original Stout has been years in the making, and it's breaking down barriers for beer lovers to enjoy this beer during more occasions.' That's right: new packaging. For the first time ever, the Original Bourbon County Stout will be available in a four-pack of 10-ounce bottles, perfect for sipping fireside or sharing at a tasting without committing to a whole bomber yourself. Goose Island is also rolling out a full slate of variants this year, each one dialed in to highlight a different aspect of what makes Bourbon County so iconic. 'At Goose Island, we consider the barrel to be an ingredient—and not just any barrel,' Mike Siegel, Senior Innovation Manager said in a statement. 'We seek out the best and prioritize relationships with the distilleries that craft them. Heaven Hill produces world-class whiskey across a range of brands, including several we've partnered with for Bourbon County over the years, such as Elijah Craig, Old Fitzgerald, Larceny, and Rittenhouse Rye. This year, we're releasing two new beers aged in their barrels: one highlighting the distillery itself with Heaven Hill Bottled-in-Bond, and another aged in barrels from the Parker's Heritage Collection 10-year 17th Edition Rye Whiskey—one of their most prized annual releases, and a barrel we've long hoped to work with for Bourbon County." 2025 Bourbon County Stour lineup Goose Island From a praline-packed stout brimming with cocoa nibs and roasted nuts to a Cherries Jubilee variant finished in cognac barrels, the lineup reads like a greatest hits album with a few brand-new tracks you'll want to blast on repeat. Here's a closer look at every Bourbon County variant hitting shelves this year and what Goose Island has to say about them: 2025 Bourbon County Brand Original Stout Bourbon County Stout Goose Island ABV: Coming Soon Availability: National Markets Format: 4-pack 10-oz bottle & draft Tasting Notes: Vanilla, cherry, cocoa, toasted almond & caramelized sugar Style: Imperial stout aged in bourbon barrels After crafting the very first bourbon barrel-aged imperial stout, Goose Island understands that great beer begins with the best ingredients– which is why the brewery continues to source only the freshest and finest from trusted partners along the bourbon trail. 2025 Bourbon County Brand Original Stout was aged in a blend of freshly emptied barrels from Buffalo Trace, Heaven Hill, Four Roses, and Wild Turkey. With an average aging time of 12 months, this stout delivers deeply developed flavors of fudge, vanilla, and caramelized sugar—all wrapped in a rich, decadent mouthfeel. 2025 Bourbon County Brand Cherries Jubilee Stout Cherries Jubilee Goose Island ABV: Coming Soon Availability: National Markets Format: 16.9oz bottle & draft Tasting Notes: Burnished cocoa & vibrant dark stone fruit with a caramelized citrus finish Style: Imperial stout aged in bourbon barrels, finished in cognac barrels with Montmorency cherries, citrus & panela As stout ages, Goose Island's brewers often observe a range of fruit expressions that emerge from the barrel and from time itself. Inspired by the flambéed dessert classic Cherries Jubilee, 2025 Bourbon County Brand Cherries Jubilee Stout captures the essence of cognac-soaked cherries and caramelized citrus. The beer began its aging journey in freshly emptied bourbon barrels, which impart rich layers of oak, warm vanilla, and subtle baking spice. It was then finished in cognac barrels, adding elegant notes of dried fruit and contributing to a rich, full mouthfeel. Following the aging process, the stout was blended with Montmorency cherries, citrus, and panela–resulting in a velvety, decadent beer with flavors of candied dark cherry, soft vanilla, and a caramelized citrus finish. 2025 Bourbon County Brand Chocolate Praline Stout Chocolate Praline Stout Goose Island ABV: Coming Soon Availability: National Markets Format: 16.9oz bottle & draft Tasting Notes: Rich fudge with toasted marzipan & chewy toffee Style: Imperial stout aged in bourbon barrels with cocoa nibs, hazelnuts, almonds, cashews & dates Bourbon County Brand Stout is a beer crafted for aging. Over time, Goose Island's imperial stout undergoes an incredible transformation within the barrel. With patience and time, the beer not only absorbs the character of the freshly emptied bourbon barrels, but also develops expressions of toasted marzipan and dried fruit—signature to Original Stout. Goose Island brings these flavors to the forefront with 2025 Bourbon County Brand Chocolate Praline Stout. First aged in freshly emptied bourbon barrels, this stout draws inspiration from the underlying decadence of chocolate, caramel, and roasted nuts found in Original. Layered with a blend of cocoa nibs, hazelnuts, almonds, cashews, and dates, this full-bodied stout showcases the classic flavors of a chocolate praline while embracing the subtle nuances imparted by the bourbon barrel. 2025 Bourbon County Brand Proprietor's Stout Proprietor's Stout Goose Island ABV: Coming Soon Availability: Chicago Market Format: 16.9oz bottle & draft Tasting Notes: Caramelized honeycomb, baking spice & roasted candied nuts Style: Imperial Stout aged in bourbon barrels with walnuts, pistachios, cassia bark & honey Inspired by the beehives on her aunt's Rhode Island homestead, Goose Island brewer Colby Magratten was immediately drawn to the flavors of crisp and nutty homemade baklava—an idea she knew would be perfect for 2025 Bourbon County Brand Proprietor's Stout. First aged in bourbon barrels and then finished with walnuts, pistachios, cassia bark, and honey, each ingredient was carefully chosen to complement the aged imperial stout: toasted nuts highlight its warm, nutty character; cinnamon enhances the spice of the bourbon barrel; and rich honey deepens the stout's caramelized body. This stout boasts a dessert-inspired expression with layers of comforting warmth, deeply roasted nuts, and a subtly sweet finish—crafted with love for, and available only in, the city Goose Island calls home: Chicago. 2025 Bourbon County Brand Double Barrel Stout Double Barrel Stout Goose Island ABV: Coming Soon Availability: National Markets Format: 16.9oz bottle & draft Tasting Notes: Toasted marshmallow, warm vanilla with a pronounced oak finish Style: Imperial Stout double barrel-aged in Heaven Hill Bottled-in-Bond Bourbon barrels Shared dedication to their respective crafts is what unites Heaven Hill and Goose Island in the creation of 2025 Bourbon County Brand Double Barrel Stout. As the creators of the world's first bourbon barrel-aged stout, the brewers at Goose Island have spent over thirty years redefining what beer can be through the evolution of Bourbon County Brand Stout. Over time, the series has grown into a diverse family of beers—each expressing a distinct character and perspective. As Bourbon County ages, it develops a myriad of characteristics: complex, layered, and deeply expressive. Drawing on decades of experience, Goose Island's brewers have learned how to elevate those qualities by fine-tuning every variable—from ingredient selection to barrel choice to time spent aging. Every decision reveals a new facet of Original Stout. 2025 Bourbon County Brand Double Barrel Stout is a masterclass in that approach. In collaboration with Heaven Hill Distillery, Goose Island aged this release in not one, but two sets of freshly emptied Heaven Hill Bottled-in-Bond Bourbon barrels. By centering the nuanced complexity of the whiskey, the resulting beer is a true celebration of bourbon, collaboration, and the most essential element of every Bourbon County release: the barrel itself. 2025 Bourbon County Brand Reserve Stout Reserve Stout Goose Island ABV: Coming Soon Availability: National Markets Format: 16.9oz bottle & draft Tasting Notes: Layers of dried fruit & marzipan with nuanced rye spice Style: Imperial Stout aged two years in Parker's Heritage Collection 10-year 17th Edition Rye Whiskey barrels Parker Beam began his distilling career at Heaven Hill in 1960, working alongside his father before becoming a sixth-generation Master Distiller in 1975. Over five decades, he built a legacy of uncompromising quality and quiet innovation—values now embodied in the Parker's Heritage Collection, named in his honor. Released annually, the collection has become a benchmark of excellence within the whiskey industry. Goose Island Beer Co. 2025 Bourbon County Brand Family Fact Sheet 2025 Bourbon County Brand Reserve Stout is a testament to the depth that comes from extended aging in an exceptional single lot of barrels. For this special release, Goose Island rested its imperial stout for a full two years in casks from one of the most respected names in American whiskey: Parker's Heritage Collection. This longer aging period goes beyond the brewery's traditional process, drawing out concentrated layers of cocoa, dried fruit, spice, and toasted oak. The result is a rich, contemplative expression of Bourbon County—one that rewards patience and reflects a legacy built slowly, barrel-by-barrel.


Forbes
16-06-2025
- Forbes
Top Small Batch Bourbon From The International Wine & Spirits Comp
Two glass of small batch bourbon whiskey with ice. Nine Small Batch Bourbons scored 90 points or higher at the 2025 International Wine & Spirits American whiskey judging. One entry scored a Gold Outstanding, the highest medal awarded by the IWSC, and four bourbons received Gold medals. Below is a brief description and tasting notes on the whiskeys. Spirit Gold Outstanding, Score: 98/100 Frank August is a modern, premium bourbon brand launched in 2022, emphasizing transparency and minimalist intervention in the production process. The whiskey is distilled and aged in Kentucky, then carefully blended in small batches and bottled at 100 proof. The mash bill is not disclosed. The bourbon is rich and layered, featuring notes of cinnamon, clove, and toasted coconut followed by caramel, vanilla, and dark cherry, underpinned by toasted oak and a dusting of cocoa powder. It's lush and silky on the palate with a pronounced mouth weight. The finish is long and warming, with lingering notes of pipe tobacco, orange zest, and baking spices. The IWSC Judging panel described the whiskey as 'the alluring aroma presents a delightful mix of apple tart, custard, and intriguing dried apricots. On the palate, a refined medley of buckwheat honey, dried apricots, vanilla, and warm spice unfolds, while the finish offers a satisfying hint of leather.' Spirit Gold, Score: 95/100 Produced by Heaven Hill, Elijah Craig Small Batch blends bourbons aged 8 to 12 years and is known for being one of the first distillers to popularize the 'small batch' category. It's bottled at 94 proof and reflects the signature Heaven Hill style—traditional, well-rounded, and intensely flavorful. The whiskey presents notes of vanilla cream, baking spice, and toasted oak on the nose. The palate showcases layers of caramel, roasted peanuts, dark dried fruit, a hint of cinnamon spice, and some barrel char. The finish is medium-length, with lingering notes of leather and caramelized sugar. The IWSC Judging panel described the whiskey as exhibiting 'inviting aromas of crème brûlée, crisp apple and green banana. The juicy palate is rich with jammy orchard fruits and is complemented by shortbread biscuits, honeycomb, black pepper, creamy marzipan, and lingering sweet cinnamon.' Spirit Gold, Score: 95/100 First West is a small batch expression by 15 Stars, a luxury whiskey brand created by a father-son duo, Rick and Ricky Johnson. It blends bourbons from multiple states and ages, some as old as 15 years. The 'First West' designation honors Kentucky's entry into the United States as the 14th state and the first state West of the Appalachian Mountains. The whisky features aromas of honeycomb, citrus zest, and butterscotch on the nose. The palate is smooth and silky, showcasing flavors of pear, cinnamon, maple syrup, and pecan pie. Bright fruit notes and a gentle rye kick balance the blend's complexity. The finish is long and polished, with lingering notes of oak, mint, and dried apricot. The IWSC Judging Panel described the whiskey as 'the bouquet opens with vibrant red berries and a sprinkle of confectioner's sugar. On the palate, a delightful interplay of chestnut honey, fresh almond, and tea emerges. A well-crafted and balanced bourbon.' Charring a white oak bourbon barrels. Photographer: Luke Sharrett/Bloomberg Spirit Gold, Score: 95/100 Created by Jim Gaffigan, Fathertime Bourbon is a small, craft label that leans into storytelling with tongue-in-cheek names and limited-release bottlings. This high-proof bourbon—humorously named 'Second Child Syndrome'—is uncut and unfiltered, reflecting a traditional, richly layered flavor profile. The whiskey is robust and aromatic on the nose, featuring aromas of molasses, saddle leather, and fig jam. The palate is robust and chewy, showcasing notes of brown sugar, tobacco leaf, roasted almonds, dark cherry, a hint of cinnamon, and cocoa. The finish is long and spicy with lingering notes of oak char and vanilla. The IWSC Judging Panel described the whiskey as 'the aroma bursts with roast pineapple and a hint of cardamom toast. On the palate, a rich fullness unfolds, harmonizing toffee and cherry with subtle oak. The finish is beautifully balanced, leaving a lingering warmth that invites another sip.' Spirit Gold 2025, Score: 95/100 Castle & Key Distillery revived the historic Old Taylor Distillery in Frankfort, Kentucky, and began producing its grain-to-bottle bourbon in 2014. Their small batch bourbon is high-rye and aged at least four years in the unique climate of their underground rickhouses. The whiskey is fresh and aromatic on the nose, featuring notes of candied orange, spearmint, and a cooked cereal/grain-forward sweetness. The palate reveals honeyed rye, cinnamon toast, and a hint of apple. The finish is long and spicy, with lingering notes of caramel, fresh oak, and a trace of mint tea. The IWSC Judging Panel described the whiskey as expressing, 'inviting aromas of spun sugar and yellow blossoms with hints of fresh acorn and honeyed sweetness. The palate is creamy and refined, unfolding with flavors of Mirabelle plum and cola nut. Lingering notes of warming cinnamon and brown sugar grace the grippy finish.' Also scoring 90 points or more were Fathertime Bourbon, Firstborn Edition Precious Batch Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, 46.2% ABV, 750 ml, 92/100 points; Fathertime Bourbon, Second Child Syndrome Precious Batch Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, 46.2% ABV, 750 ml, 91/100 and Fathertime Bourbon, The Middle Child Mystery Precious Batch Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, 46.2% ABV, 750 ml. 91/100 Small-batch whiskeys are where terroir can shine, highlighting a region's style and flavor profile. Unlike single-cask offerings, whose output is usually quite limited, small-batch bottlings are a little easier to find and tend to have more consistency between batches. All of the small-batch bourbons are outstanding. They are all bottled at above-average proof, with several at cask strength, delivering an intense and robust flavor profile. If you love bourbon, these expressions are well worth seeking out.