Reviews

Does whiskey get better with time? Or does it get better with change? Is it possible to separate one from the other? In theory, time aids in change. The longer whiskey ages in a barrel, the more it should change. However, more time doesn't necessarily mean better. No one wants to sip on an over-oaked whiskey. Conversely, more change doesn't necessarily mean better either. Too many cask finishes and too much disturbance can sometimes result in a disjointed flavor profile. I've

"There is nothing new in the world except the history you do not know." — Harry S Truman When you sip on the whiskey of today, you may also find yourself opening a door to a nuanced view of American history. Often, brands will feature a historical figure on their packaging, leaning into their unique history of whiskey-making as a way of meaningful marketing. Whether the stories are true and verified, or whether they're simply lore passed down from generation to generation, p

"Always remember that you are absolutely unique. Just like everyone else." — Marsha Mellows Russell's Reserve 13 year is back after a year hiatus with its spring 2025 release. Let's be honest, though, did you notice its absence in 2024? If you weren't living under a rock, then chances are Russell's Reserve 15 Year had your attention, your affection, or, at the very least, had you running around to liquor stores far and wide in 2024. It's okay to admit that you may have forgo

“Life is a balance of holding on and letting go.”  - Rumi First hitting the market in the early 2000s, thanks to some bottling line help...

“Old age and treachery will always overcome youth and exuberance.”  - David Mamet It seems that everybody is releasing older and older...

Established in 2013 as the original independent blender of cask-strength whiskey, Barrell Craft Spirits has released Batch 037, featuring some of the oldest stock seen in these annual releases to date. This is a core release in their batch bourbon lineup. Barrell Bourbon batches are the hallmark of our dedication to crafting innovatine, high-quality bourbons. Each batch is a unique expression of the art of blending, showcasing a diverse range of ages and styles. The flavor p