Long time lurker now a member

[ChickDip]

Good bourbon is scarce these days with all these hipsters taking up the hobby. My favorites though, that are still readily available on the shelf, are:

- Knob Creek Single Barrel (Has some of the same complexity and flavor of Top shelf stuff. Excellent choice that still flies under the radar)
- Bookers ( from the Jim Beam fam. This was my 1st taste of 'good' whiskey.Uncut, unfiltered. Meaning not watered down. Sometimes you get a bottle where you can still see some of the sediment swirling around the bottle, not diluted to a certain 'proof'. The buttery way it coats your mouth... just MMM)
- Bakers ( much like Bookers, same heritage)
All of the above are part of the Jim Beam fam.

- WL Weller 12 year (If you can find it, is excellent bang for the buck. Dont get it confused with WL Weller Special Reserve)
- Wild Turkey Rare Breed ( Theres also one called Forgiven. The regular Wild Turkey is a bit burly, even for me, but these are pretty good)
- E.H. Taylor Small batch  Barrel Proof(bit more rare) (Love them Both. From Buffalo Trace Distillaries, the guys that produce stuff like George T. Stagg and carry on the Pappy van winkle line. I have a bottle of the single barrel, but have yet to crack it open)
- Buffalo Trace (Im a fan of Buffalo Trace distillery. I think they make excellent products starting with this one. Its a good starter and cheap enough to have around and not get mad when someone mixes it.)
- Elijah Craig 12 yr ( I carry this one for when people visit and want to try, but i know will feel compelled to mix it with coke or something, still pretty good.)
-Old Grandad 114 ( A favorite amongst the old timer bourbon drinkers. There was a time when there was a rumor circulating that there was a shortage of this, and for a brief period, it became hard to find. I think the same would happen to Knob Creek Single Barrel if word go out)

-Four Roses (4 roses has a cult following. Initially, not impressed. But the last Small Batch i tried was very good, better than the Single Barrel. In some ABCs you'll see a bottle that looks like the Single Barrel, but says Barrel Proof. Those are excellent, especially the ones that have a label that says "Hand Selected for ....*whatever liquor store*...". There are like 8 Different mashbills/'flavors'. So look at the little tag to see what you might like. Im not a fan of the 'Minty' or 'Fruity' flavors. But some are.)

The 'Pappy' line is good because its smooth but a bit overrated, in my opinion. The lure of it is the heritage, but finding it is wishful thinking. I would never dream of buying one at the rate theyre going for now (Pappy 15 yr ~$700). George T. Stagg is much more complex, probably the best I've had. The exception being Pappy 20/23yr. For the age, they are silky smooth.

I keep my bar stocked with all of these. I also have some really top shelf/more rare varieties. But i always tell people, you cant start too high otherwise you wont be able to taste the increase in quality/ appreciate it.
One thing i see a lot is people going for Basil Hayden or Woodford Reserve because the bottle looks "pretty". I havent had either in a while. I remember them being ALRIGHT, but nothing memorable.

One other thing: I drink my bourbon Neat. Occasionally, if its a new bottle and still 'hot' (high alcohol), then ill add a few drops of water or an ice cube. As time goes by and the excess alcohol evaporates, the flavor profile will become bolder and it wont burn so much..but the heat is half the fun of bourbon. If thats too much for you, then maybe a spiked lemonade with fruit and an umbrella suit you better. ;)

I always tell newbs: If youre afraid to drink it, it'll burn. Dont put it back like a shot. Dont take a teeny little sip. That makes it burn. Take a decent sip, let it linger and coat your mouth ( i always close my eyes and rock my head side to side so it rolls over my tongue) then let it go down. That way, it wont burn, but youll feel the heat set in nicely..

Not in the biz, just a drinker/collector. Ironically, Im not even that much of a drinker... Just developed a taste and appreciation over time.

I'm in the biz. You and I are gonna get along well. By the way, I prefer knob creek rye and love basil Hayden love.

Your taste buds are going to heal up and you are going to taste flavored like you've never tasted before. Plus you'll save enough$$$ quickly to add to your reserves collection guilt free.

Nice, now thats a reason to get excited! I'll have to give Basil another go.. I tried it when i was still relatively new bourbon but would definitely be open to another taste. KC Rye? I'll have to grab up that one next time i see it. Never tried it. Now my mouth is watering...

Congratulations on 100 days! Hope you crack open a new bottle to celebrate!

More greatness is ahead, but today is a big win! Enjoy!

Congrats on your 100 day mark!
Celebrate and move on posting your promise.
I quit with you today.

[worktowin]

Good bourbon is scarce these days with all these hipsters taking up the hobby. My favorites though, that are still readily available on the shelf, are:

- Knob Creek Single Barrel (Has some of the same complexity and flavor of Top shelf stuff. Excellent choice that still flies under the radar)
- Bookers ( from the Jim Beam fam. This was my 1st taste of 'good' whiskey.Uncut, unfiltered. Meaning not watered down. Sometimes you get a bottle where you can still see some of the sediment swirling around the bottle, not diluted to a certain 'proof'. The buttery way it coats your mouth... just MMM)
- Bakers ( much like Bookers, same heritage)
All of the above are part of the Jim Beam fam.

- WL Weller 12 year (If you can find it, is excellent bang for the buck. Dont get it confused with WL Weller Special Reserve)
- Wild Turkey Rare Breed ( Theres also one called Forgiven. The regular Wild Turkey is a bit burly, even for me, but these are pretty good)
- E.H. Taylor Small batch  Barrel Proof(bit more rare) (Love them Both. From Buffalo Trace Distillaries, the guys that produce stuff like George T. Stagg and carry on the Pappy van winkle line. I have a bottle of the single barrel, but have yet to crack it open)
- Buffalo Trace (Im a fan of Buffalo Trace distillery. I think they make excellent products starting with this one. Its a good starter and cheap enough to have around and not get mad when someone mixes it.)
- Elijah Craig 12 yr ( I carry this one for when people visit and want to try, but i know will feel compelled to mix it with coke or something, still pretty good.)
-Old Grandad 114 ( A favorite amongst the old timer bourbon drinkers. There was a time when there was a rumor circulating that there was a shortage of this, and for a brief period, it became hard to find. I think the same would happen to Knob Creek Single Barrel if word go out)

-Four Roses (4 roses has a cult following. Initially, not impressed. But the last Small Batch i tried was very good, better than the Single Barrel. In some ABCs you'll see a bottle that looks like the Single Barrel, but says Barrel Proof. Those are excellent, especially the ones that have a label that says "Hand Selected for ....*whatever liquor store*...". There are like 8 Different mashbills/'flavors'. So look at the little tag to see what you might like. Im not a fan of the 'Minty' or 'Fruity' flavors. But some are.)

The 'Pappy' line is good because its smooth but a bit overrated, in my opinion. The lure of it is the heritage, but finding it is wishful thinking. I would never dream of buying one at the rate theyre going for now (Pappy 15 yr ~$700). George T. Stagg is much more complex, probably the best I've had. The exception being Pappy 20/23yr. For the age, they are silky smooth.

I keep my bar stocked with all of these. I also have some really top shelf/more rare varieties. But i always tell people, you cant start too high otherwise you wont be able to taste the increase in quality/ appreciate it.
One thing i see a lot is people going for Basil Hayden or Woodford Reserve because the bottle looks "pretty". I havent had either in a while. I remember them being ALRIGHT, but nothing memorable.

One other thing: I drink my bourbon Neat. Occasionally, if its a new bottle and still 'hot' (high alcohol), then ill add a few drops of water or an ice cube. As time goes by and the excess alcohol evaporates, the flavor profile will become bolder and it wont burn so much..but the heat is half the fun of bourbon. If thats too much for you, then maybe a spiked lemonade with fruit and an umbrella suit you better. ;)

I always tell newbs: If youre afraid to drink it, it'll burn. Dont put it back like a shot. Dont take a teeny little sip. That makes it burn. Take a decent sip, let it linger and coat your mouth ( i always close my eyes and rock my head side to side so it rolls over my tongue) then let it go down. That way, it wont burn, but youll feel the heat set in nicely..

Not in the biz, just a drinker/collector. Ironically, Im not even that much of a drinker... Just developed a taste and appreciation over time.

I'm in the biz. You and I are gonna get along well. By the way, I prefer knob creek rye and love basil Hayden love.

Your taste buds are going to heal up and you are going to taste flavored like you've never tasted before. Plus you'll save enough$$$ quickly to add to your reserves collection guilt free.

Nice, now thats a reason to get excited! I'll have to give Basil another go.. I tried it when i was still relatively new bourbon but would definitely be open to another taste. KC Rye? I'll have to grab up that one next time i see it. Never tried it. Now my mouth is watering...

Congratulations on 100 days! Hope you crack open a new bottle to celebrate!

More greatness is ahead, but today is a big win! Enjoy!

[bourbonguy]

Good bourbon is scarce these days with all these hipsters taking up the hobby. My favorites though, that are still readily available on the shelf, are:

- Knob Creek Single Barrel (Has some of the same complexity and flavor of Top shelf stuff. Excellent choice that still flies under the radar)
- Bookers ( from the Jim Beam fam. This was my 1st taste of 'good' whiskey.Uncut, unfiltered. Meaning not watered down. Sometimes you get a bottle where you can still see some of the sediment swirling around the bottle, not diluted to a certain 'proof'. The buttery way it coats your mouth... just MMM)
- Bakers ( much like Bookers, same heritage)
All of the above are part of the Jim Beam fam.

- WL Weller 12 year (If you can find it, is excellent bang for the buck. Dont get it confused with WL Weller Special Reserve)
- Wild Turkey Rare Breed ( Theres also one called Forgiven. The regular Wild Turkey is a bit burly, even for me, but these are pretty good)
- E.H. Taylor Small batch  Barrel Proof(bit more rare) (Love them Both. From Buffalo Trace Distillaries, the guys that produce stuff like George T. Stagg and carry on the Pappy van winkle line. I have a bottle of the single barrel, but have yet to crack it open)
- Buffalo Trace (Im a fan of Buffalo Trace distillery. I think they make excellent products starting with this one. Its a good starter and cheap enough to have around and not get mad when someone mixes it.)
- Elijah Craig 12 yr ( I carry this one for when people visit and want to try, but i know will feel compelled to mix it with coke or something, still pretty good.)
-Old Grandad 114 ( A favorite amongst the old timer bourbon drinkers. There was a time when there was a rumor circulating that there was a shortage of this, and for a brief period, it became hard to find. I think the same would happen to Knob Creek Single Barrel if word go out)

-Four Roses (4 roses has a cult following. Initially, not impressed. But the last Small Batch i tried was very good, better than the Single Barrel. In some ABCs you'll see a bottle that looks like the Single Barrel, but says Barrel Proof. Those are excellent, especially the ones that have a label that says "Hand Selected for ....*whatever liquor store*...". There are like 8 Different mashbills/'flavors'. So look at the little tag to see what you might like. Im not a fan of the 'Minty' or 'Fruity' flavors. But some are.)

The 'Pappy' line is good because its smooth but a bit overrated, in my opinion. The lure of it is the heritage, but finding it is wishful thinking. I would never dream of buying one at the rate theyre going for now (Pappy 15 yr ~$700). George T. Stagg is much more complex, probably the best I've had. The exception being Pappy 20/23yr. For the age, they are silky smooth.

I keep my bar stocked with all of these. I also have some really top shelf/more rare varieties. But i always tell people, you cant start too high otherwise you wont be able to taste the increase in quality/ appreciate it.
One thing i see a lot is people going for Basil Hayden or Woodford Reserve because the bottle looks "pretty". I havent had either in a while. I remember them being ALRIGHT, but nothing memorable.

One other thing: I drink my bourbon Neat. Occasionally, if its a new bottle and still 'hot' (high alcohol), then ill add a few drops of water or an ice cube. As time goes by and the excess alcohol evaporates, the flavor profile will become bolder and it wont burn so much..but the heat is half the fun of bourbon. If thats too much for you, then maybe a spiked lemonade with fruit and an umbrella suit you better. ;)

I always tell newbs: If youre afraid to drink it, it'll burn. Dont put it back like a shot. Dont take a teeny little sip. That makes it burn. Take a decent sip, let it linger and coat your mouth ( i always close my eyes and rock my head side to side so it rolls over my tongue) then let it go down. That way, it wont burn, but youll feel the heat set in nicely..

Not in the biz, just a drinker/collector. Ironically, Im not even that much of a drinker... Just developed a taste and appreciation over time.

I'm in the biz. You and I are gonna get along well. By the way, I prefer knob creek rye and love basil Hayden love.

Your taste buds are going to heal up and you are going to taste flavored like you've never tasted before. Plus you'll save enough$$$ quickly to add to your reserves collection guilt free.

Nice, now thats a reason to get excited! I'll have to give Basil another go.. I tried it when i was still relatively new bourbon but would definitely be open to another taste. KC Rye? I'll have to grab up that one next time i see it. Never tried it. Now my mouth is watering...

[worktowin]

Good bourbon is scarce these days with all these hipsters taking up the hobby. My favorites though, that are still readily available on the shelf, are:

- Knob Creek Single Barrel (Has some of the same complexity and flavor of Top shelf stuff. Excellent choice that still flies under the radar)
- Bookers ( from the Jim Beam fam. This was my 1st taste of 'good' whiskey.Uncut, unfiltered. Meaning not watered down. Sometimes you get a bottle where you can still see some of the sediment swirling around the bottle, not diluted to a certain 'proof'. The buttery way it coats your mouth... just MMM)
- Bakers ( much like Bookers, same heritage)
All of the above are part of the Jim Beam fam.

- WL Weller 12 year (If you can find it, is excellent bang for the buck. Dont get it confused with WL Weller Special Reserve)
- Wild Turkey Rare Breed ( Theres also one called Forgiven. The regular Wild Turkey is a bit burly, even for me, but these are pretty good)
- E.H. Taylor Small batch  Barrel Proof(bit more rare) (Love them Both. From Buffalo Trace Distillaries, the guys that produce stuff like George T. Stagg and carry on the Pappy van winkle line. I have a bottle of the single barrel, but have yet to crack it open)
- Buffalo Trace (Im a fan of Buffalo Trace distillery. I think they make excellent products starting with this one. Its a good starter and cheap enough to have around and not get mad when someone mixes it.)
- Elijah Craig 12 yr ( I carry this one for when people visit and want to try, but i know will feel compelled to mix it with coke or something, still pretty good.)
-Old Grandad 114 ( A favorite amongst the old timer bourbon drinkers. There was a time when there was a rumor circulating that there was a shortage of this, and for a brief period, it became hard to find. I think the same would happen to Knob Creek Single Barrel if word go out)

-Four Roses (4 roses has a cult following. Initially, not impressed. But the last Small Batch i tried was very good, better than the Single Barrel. In some ABCs you'll see a bottle that looks like the Single Barrel, but says Barrel Proof. Those are excellent, especially the ones that have a label that says "Hand Selected for ....*whatever liquor store*...". There are like 8 Different mashbills/'flavors'. So look at the little tag to see what you might like. Im not a fan of the 'Minty' or 'Fruity' flavors. But some are.)

The 'Pappy' line is good because its smooth but a bit overrated, in my opinion. The lure of it is the heritage, but finding it is wishful thinking. I would never dream of buying one at the rate theyre going for now (Pappy 15 yr ~$700). George T. Stagg is much more complex, probably the best I've had. The exception being Pappy 20/23yr. For the age, they are silky smooth.

I keep my bar stocked with all of these. I also have some really top shelf/more rare varieties. But i always tell people, you cant start too high otherwise you wont be able to taste the increase in quality/ appreciate it.
One thing i see a lot is people going for Basil Hayden or Woodford Reserve because the bottle looks "pretty". I havent had either in a while. I remember them being ALRIGHT, but nothing memorable.

One other thing: I drink my bourbon Neat. Occasionally, if its a new bottle and still 'hot' (high alcohol), then ill add a few drops of water or an ice cube. As time goes by and the excess alcohol evaporates, the flavor profile will become bolder and it wont burn so much..but the heat is half the fun of bourbon. If thats too much for you, then maybe a spiked lemonade with fruit and an umbrella suit you better. ;)

I always tell newbs: If youre afraid to drink it, it'll burn. Dont put it back like a shot. Dont take a teeny little sip. That makes it burn. Take a decent sip, let it linger and coat your mouth ( i always close my eyes and rock my head side to side so it rolls over my tongue) then let it go down. That way, it wont burn, but youll feel the heat set in nicely..

Not in the biz, just a drinker/collector. Ironically, Im not even that much of a drinker... Just developed a taste and appreciation over time.

I'm in the biz. You and I are gonna get along well. By the way, I prefer knob creek rye and love basil Hayden love.

Your taste buds are going to heal up and you are going to taste flavored like you've never tasted before. Plus you'll save enough$$$ quickly to add to your reserves collection guilt free.

[Stillamarine]

We live in Alabama. My wife is game to go although she's not much of a whiskey drinker.

Trust me the support here is what has gotten me through the last 3 weeks. As more of your month come on make sure y'all get together. Post roll every day and as early as you can. You got this!

[bourbonguy]

Good bourbon is scarce these days with all these hipsters taking up the hobby. My favorites though, that are still readily available on the shelf, are:

- Knob Creek Single Barrel (Has some of the same complexity and flavor of Top shelf stuff. Excellent choice that still flies under the radar)
- Bookers ( from the Jim Beam fam. This was my 1st taste of 'good' whiskey.Uncut, unfiltered. Meaning not watered down. Sometimes you get a bottle where you can still see some of the sediment swirling around the bottle, not diluted to a certain 'proof'. The buttery way it coats your mouth... just MMM)
- Bakers ( much like Bookers, same heritage)
All of the above are part of the Jim Beam fam.

- WL Weller 12 year (If you can find it, is excellent bang for the buck. Dont get it confused with WL Weller Special Reserve)
- Wild Turkey Rare Breed ( Theres also one called Forgiven. The regular Wild Turkey is a bit burly, even for me, but these are pretty good)
- E.H. Taylor Small batch  Barrel Proof(bit more rare) (Love them Both. From Buffalo Trace Distillaries, the guys that produce stuff like George T. Stagg and carry on the Pappy van winkle line. I have a bottle of the single barrel, but have yet to crack it open)
- Buffalo Trace (Im a fan of Buffalo Trace distillery. I think they make excellent products starting with this one. Its a good starter and cheap enough to have around and not get mad when someone mixes it.)
- Elijah Craig 12 yr ( I carry this one for when people visit and want to try, but i know will feel compelled to mix it with coke or something, still pretty good.)
-Old Grandad 114 ( A favorite amongst the old timer bourbon drinkers. There was a time when there was a rumor circulating that there was a shortage of this, and for a brief period, it became hard to find. I think the same would happen to Knob Creek Single Barrel if word go out)

-Four Roses (4 roses has a cult following. Initially, not impressed. But the last Small Batch i tried was very good, better than the Single Barrel. In some ABCs you'll see a bottle that looks like the Single Barrel, but says Barrel Proof. Those are excellent, especially the ones that have a label that says "Hand Selected for ....*whatever liquor store*...". There are like 8 Different mashbills/'flavors'. So look at the little tag to see what you might like. Im not a fan of the 'Minty' or 'Fruity' flavors. But some are.)

The 'Pappy' line is good because its smooth but a bit overrated, in my opinion. The lure of it is the heritage, but finding it is wishful thinking. I would never dream of buying one at the rate theyre going for now (Pappy 15 yr ~$700). George T. Stagg is much more complex, probably the best I've had. The exception being Pappy 20/23yr. For the age, they are silky smooth.

I keep my bar stocked with all of these. I also have some really top shelf/more rare varieties. But i always tell people, you cant start too high otherwise you wont be able to taste the increase in quality/ appreciate it.
One thing i see a lot is people going for Basil Hayden or Woodford Reserve because the bottle looks "pretty". I havent had either in a while. I remember them being ALRIGHT, but nothing memorable.

One other thing: I drink my bourbon Neat. Occasionally, if its a new bottle and still 'hot' (high alcohol), then ill add a few drops of water or an ice cube. As time goes by and the excess alcohol evaporates, the flavor profile will become bolder and it wont burn so much..but the heat is half the fun of bourbon. If thats too much for you, then maybe a spiked lemonade with fruit and an umbrella suit you better. ;)

I always tell newbs: If youre afraid to drink it, it'll burn. Dont put it back like a shot. Dont take a teeny little sip. That makes it burn. Take a decent sip, let it linger and coat your mouth ( i always close my eyes and rock my head side to side so it rolls over my tongue) then let it go down. That way, it wont burn, but youll feel the heat set in nicely..

Not in the biz, just a drinker/collector. Ironically, Im not even that much of a drinker... Just developed a taste and appreciation over time.

Dude, you are speaking my language. Personally I am a a fan of all whiskeys. You named some very good ones. Knob Creek is great. Most of the Jim Beam line is top notch in my opinion. Bookers...mmmmmm. I'm also a big fan of Makers. I grew up with my grandfather drinking Old Granddad and is probably my first taste of alcohol beside the permitted wine at dinner from time to time.

As far as scotch goes try Famous Grouse. I'm a big fan of it. Funny enough one of my favorite series of books I got into reading overseas kept mentioning it. When I came home I bought a bottle of it. Pretty good.

I also agree in how to drink good whiskey. Either a slight splash of water or maybe one or two ice cubes.

One day I'm going to do the Bourbon Trail.

Welcome to the rest of your life! I quit with you!

Semper Fi

Oh man, the Bourbon trail.. On my list. Let me know when you go, might meet ya there!

Thanks buddy. All the member support on here has been the difference in my quit. Glad and thankful to be here.

[Stillamarine]

Good bourbon is scarce these days with all these hipsters taking up the hobby. My favorites though, that are still readily available on the shelf, are:

- Knob Creek Single Barrel (Has some of the same complexity and flavor of Top shelf stuff. Excellent choice that still flies under the radar)
- Bookers ( from the Jim Beam fam. This was my 1st taste of 'good' whiskey.Uncut, unfiltered. Meaning not watered down. Sometimes you get a bottle where you can still see some of the sediment swirling around the bottle, not diluted to a certain 'proof'. The buttery way it coats your mouth... just MMM)
- Bakers ( much like Bookers, same heritage)
All of the above are part of the Jim Beam fam.

- WL Weller 12 year (If you can find it, is excellent bang for the buck. Dont get it confused with WL Weller Special Reserve)
- Wild Turkey Rare Breed ( Theres also one called Forgiven. The regular Wild Turkey is a bit burly, even for me, but these are pretty good)
- E.H. Taylor Small batch  Barrel Proof(bit more rare) (Love them Both. From Buffalo Trace Distillaries, the guys that produce stuff like George T. Stagg and carry on the Pappy van winkle line. I have a bottle of the single barrel, but have yet to crack it open)
- Buffalo Trace (Im a fan of Buffalo Trace distillery. I think they make excellent products starting with this one. Its a good starter and cheap enough to have around and not get mad when someone mixes it.)
- Elijah Craig 12 yr ( I carry this one for when people visit and want to try, but i know will feel compelled to mix it with coke or something, still pretty good.)
-Old Grandad 114 ( A favorite amongst the old timer bourbon drinkers. There was a time when there was a rumor circulating that there was a shortage of this, and for a brief period, it became hard to find. I think the same would happen to Knob Creek Single Barrel if word go out)

-Four Roses (4 roses has a cult following. Initially, not impressed. But the last Small Batch i tried was very good, better than the Single Barrel. In some ABCs you'll see a bottle that looks like the Single Barrel, but says Barrel Proof. Those are excellent, especially the ones that have a label that says "Hand Selected for ....*whatever liquor store*...". There are like 8 Different mashbills/'flavors'. So look at the little tag to see what you might like. Im not a fan of the 'Minty' or 'Fruity' flavors. But some are.)

The 'Pappy' line is good because its smooth but a bit overrated, in my opinion. The lure of it is the heritage, but finding it is wishful thinking. I would never dream of buying one at the rate theyre going for now (Pappy 15 yr ~$700). George T. Stagg is much more complex, probably the best I've had. The exception being Pappy 20/23yr. For the age, they are silky smooth.

I keep my bar stocked with all of these. I also have some really top shelf/more rare varieties. But i always tell people, you cant start too high otherwise you wont be able to taste the increase in quality/ appreciate it.
One thing i see a lot is people going for Basil Hayden or Woodford Reserve because the bottle looks "pretty". I havent had either in a while. I remember them being ALRIGHT, but nothing memorable.

One other thing: I drink my bourbon Neat. Occasionally, if its a new bottle and still 'hot' (high alcohol), then ill add a few drops of water or an ice cube. As time goes by and the excess alcohol evaporates, the flavor profile will become bolder and it wont burn so much..but the heat is half the fun of bourbon. If thats too much for you, then maybe a spiked lemonade with fruit and an umbrella suit you better. ;)

I always tell newbs: If youre afraid to drink it, it'll burn. Dont put it back like a shot. Dont take a teeny little sip. That makes it burn. Take a decent sip, let it linger and coat your mouth ( i always close my eyes and rock my head side to side so it rolls over my tongue) then let it go down. That way, it wont burn, but youll feel the heat set in nicely..

Not in the biz, just a drinker/collector. Ironically, Im not even that much of a drinker... Just developed a taste and appreciation over time.

Dude, you are speaking my language. Personally I am a a fan of all whiskeys. You named some very good ones. Knob Creek is great. Most of the Jim Beam line is top notch in my opinion. Bookers...mmmmmm. I'm also a big fan of Makers. I grew up with my grandfather drinking Old Granddad and is probably my first taste of alcohol beside the permitted wine at dinner from time to time.

As far as scotch goes try Famous Grouse. I'm a big fan of it. Funny enough one of my favorite series of books I got into reading overseas kept mentioning it. When I came home I bought a bottle of it. Pretty good.

I also agree in how to drink good whiskey. Either a slight splash of water or maybe one or two ice cubes.

One day I'm going to do the Bourbon Trail.

Welcome to the rest of your life! I quit with you!

Semper Fi

[invader]

Interesting! I'm woefully ignorant when it comes to bourbon, since I also am not much of a drinker. Though I will keep my eye out for some of these if I'm ever in the market for some!

[bourbonguy]

I could go on, but i'll let you guys digest that list. Whats nice is you'll still be able to find them still on the shelves and they wont break the bank. Try them out, see what flavor profiles you like, its a bit personal but those i have listed are pretty universally considered "Good Stuff"

I've always heard that Scotch drinkers dont really like bourbon, and vice versa. Thats a little true with me, scotch has a taste i havent acquired yet. But i've met plenty of exceptions; people that enjoy both.

I'd be glad to field any specific questions.

[bourbonguy]

Good bourbon is scarce these days with all these hipsters taking up the hobby. My favorites though, that are still readily available on the shelf, are:

- Knob Creek Single Barrel (Has some of the same complexity and flavor of Top shelf stuff. Excellent choice that still flies under the radar)
- Bookers ( from the Jim Beam fam. This was my 1st taste of 'good' whiskey.Uncut, unfiltered. Meaning not watered down. Sometimes you get a bottle where you can still see some of the sediment swirling around the bottle, not diluted to a certain 'proof'. The buttery way it coats your mouth... just MMM)
- Bakers ( much like Bookers, same heritage)
All of the above are part of the Jim Beam fam.

- WL Weller 12 year (If you can find it, is excellent bang for the buck. Dont get it confused with WL Weller Special Reserve)
- Wild Turkey Rare Breed ( Theres also one called Forgiven. The regular Wild Turkey is a bit burly, even for me, but these are pretty good)
- E.H. Taylor Small batch  Barrel Proof(bit more rare) (Love them Both. From Buffalo Trace Distillaries, the guys that produce stuff like George T. Stagg and carry on the Pappy van winkle line. I have a bottle of the single barrel, but have yet to crack it open)
- Buffalo Trace (Im a fan of Buffalo Trace distillery. I think they make excellent products starting with this one. Its a good starter and cheap enough to have around and not get mad when someone mixes it.)
- Elijah Craig 12 yr ( I carry this one for when people visit and want to try, but i know will feel compelled to mix it with coke or something, still pretty good.)
-Old Grandad 114 ( A favorite amongst the old timer bourbon drinkers. There was a time when there was a rumor circulating that there was a shortage of this, and for a brief period, it became hard to find. I think the same would happen to Knob Creek Single Barrel if word go out)

-Four Roses (4 roses has a cult following. Initially, not impressed. But the last Small Batch i tried was very good, better than the Single Barrel. In some ABCs you'll see a bottle that looks like the Single Barrel, but says Barrel Proof. Those are excellent, especially the ones that have a label that says "Hand Selected for ....*whatever liquor store*...". There are like 8 Different mashbills/'flavors'. So look at the little tag to see what you might like. Im not a fan of the 'Minty' or 'Fruity' flavors. But some are.)

The 'Pappy' line is good because its smooth but a bit overrated, in my opinion. The lure of it is the heritage, but finding it is wishful thinking. I would never dream of buying one at the rate theyre going for now (Pappy 15 yr ~$700). George T. Stagg is much more complex, probably the best I've had. The exception being Pappy 20/23yr. For the age, they are silky smooth.

I keep my bar stocked with all of these. I also have some really top shelf/more rare varieties. But i always tell people, you cant start too high otherwise you wont be able to taste the increase in quality/ appreciate it.
One thing i see a lot is people going for Basil Hayden or Woodford Reserve because the bottle looks "pretty". I havent had either in a while. I remember them being ALRIGHT, but nothing memorable.

One other thing: I drink my bourbon Neat. Occasionally, if its a new bottle and still 'hot' (high alcohol), then ill add a few drops of water or an ice cube. As time goes by and the excess alcohol evaporates, the flavor profile will become bolder and it wont burn so much..but the heat is half the fun of bourbon. If thats too much for you, then maybe a spiked lemonade with fruit and an umbrella suit you better. ;)

I always tell newbs: If youre afraid to drink it, it'll burn. Dont put it back like a shot. Dont take a teeny little sip. That makes it burn. Take a decent sip, let it linger and coat your mouth ( i always close my eyes and rock my head side to side so it rolls over my tongue) then let it go down. That way, it wont burn, but youll feel the heat set in nicely..

Not in the biz, just a drinker/collector. Ironically, Im not even that much of a drinker... Just developed a taste and appreciation over time.

[Bean]

Quitting with you today bourbon! Post roll and make it official this morning!

I dont know why but this gives me a little extra momentum. We can bitch and moan together. Huzzah!

How about celebrating instead of bitching and moaning? Quitting is a joyous occasion. You attitude determines your success. I'm pumped you're here. I'm pumped about your quit. You should be too!!! Congrats!!!

Good point Bean, attitude goes a long way. Huzzah!

Keep kicking ass brother. Nicotine is never a good option.

What gives with the name? You in the bourbon biz or just a good consumer? What's tips on your list?

^^^^ Yes, we need an answer. My father drinks scotch (Dewars). Father in law drinks Jim Beam. Either is okay with me. But what say Bourbonguy?

[worktowin]

Quitting with you today bourbon! Post roll and make it official this morning!

I dont know why but this gives me a little extra momentum. We can bitch and moan together. Huzzah!

How about celebrating instead of bitching and moaning? Quitting is a joyous occasion. You attitude determines your success. I'm pumped you're here. I'm pumped about your quit. You should be too!!! Congrats!!!

Good point Bean, attitude goes a long way. Huzzah!

Keep kicking ass brother. Nicotine is never a good option.

What gives with the name? You in the bourbon biz or just a good consumer? What's tips on your list?

[danojeno]

Quitting with you today bourbon! Post roll and make it official this morning!

I dont know why but this gives me a little extra momentum. We can bitch and moan together. Huzzah!

How about celebrating instead of bitching and moaning? Quitting is a joyous occasion. You attitude determines your success. I'm pumped you're here. I'm pumped about your quit. You should be too!!! Congrats!!!

Good point Bean, attitude goes a long way. Huzzah!

Keep kicking ass brother. Nicotine is never a good option.

[bourbonguy]

Quitting with you today bourbon! Post roll and make it official this morning!

I dont know why but this gives me a little extra momentum. We can bitch and moan together. Huzzah!

How about celebrating instead of bitching and moaning? Quitting is a joyous occasion. You attitude determines your success. I'm pumped you're here. I'm pumped about your quit. You should be too!!! Congrats!!!

Good point Bean, attitude goes a long way. Huzzah!

[Bean]

Quitting with you today bourbon! Post roll and make it official this morning!

I dont know why but this gives me a little extra momentum. We can bitch and moan together. Huzzah!

How about celebrating instead of bitching and moaning? Quitting is a joyous occasion. You attitude determines your success. I'm pumped you're here. I'm pumped about your quit. You should be too!!! Congrats!!!