The Bourbon Road

In this relaxed and whiskey-rich episode of The Bourbon Road, hosts Jim Shannon and Todd Ritter take a well-earned pause from their recent travels and barrel picks to enjoy a night of good conversation and even better pours. Broadcasting from the Bourbon Road Bar in Simpsonville, Kentucky, the duo dives into a curated flight of four whiskeys—two bourbons and two ryes—with a monster of a surprise in the final glass. You'll hear stories of legendary Kentucky moonshine, high-proof adventures, and reflections on the growing bourbon community, including updates on their recent roadie meetups and the much-anticipated debut of the Frankfurt Documentary. There’s even a toast to their “podcast enemies” over at Pursuit United, as Jim and Todd sample the Melwood Bottled-in-Bond Bourbon—a nod to whiskey history and the legacy of George Swearingen and Rudolph Balki. The episode is more than just tasting notes (though there are plenty): it’s about community, history, and the shared appreciation of exceptional spirits. Learn about Melwood Avenue’s historic distilling past, find out what makes the rare 375ml release from Pursuit United so unique, and stick around for insights on upcoming barrel picks, roadie events, and the always vibrant Bourbon on the Banks Festival. And yes, they saved the strongest for last—literally. One of the highest-proof pours ever featured on the show makes a thunderous finish, sparking memories of mason jars, X-marked moonshine, and the kind of burn only true Kentuckians could admire. So pour yourself a generous dram and settle in. This episode is one for the books—and for the bourbon shelves. Bourbon on the Banks 2025 Smokeys Lifestyle Cigars The Hill House Bed and Breakfast Be sure to check out our private Facebook group, "The Bourbon Roadies" for a great group of bourbon loving people. You will be welcomed with open arms!

This week on The Bourbon Road, Jim and Todd sit down with Julian Jones of West Fork Whiskey, an emerging Indiana distillery making bold moves in the American whiskey scene. In a rare twist, the trio kicks things off with a reverse-proof tasting—starting strong with Old Hammer Cask Strength Bourbon. Julian shares the story behind West Fork’s grain-to-glass mission, the challenges of building a craft brand in a Kentucky-dominated world, and why Indiana whiskey deserves your attention. Don’t miss this insightful and flavorful journey through the heartland of whiskey innovation. Bourbon on the Banks 2025 Smokeys Lifestyle Cigars The Hill House Bed and Breakfast Be sure to check out our private Facebook group, "The Bourbon Roadies" for a great group of bourbon loving people. You will be welcomed with open arms!

In this episode of The Bourbon Road, hosts Jim Shannon and Todd Ritter sit down in Frankfort, Kentucky, with filmmaker and bourbon enthusiast Bo Cumberland. Known to fans of the show and followers of the Bourbon Road Facebook community, Bo is the creative mind behind the documentary Frankfort, Kentucky: The Heart of Bourbon, a project highlighting the deep roots and vibrant community surrounding bourbon in Kentucky’s capital. Bo shares his personal journey - from his move from Knoxville, Tennessee to Sparta, Kentucky - driven by a passion for bourbon and a desire to immerse himself in the culture and camaraderie that bourbon fosters. The conversation touches on his creative inspirations, the challenges and joys of independent filmmaking, and how the Frankfort Bourbon Society shaped his vision for the documentary. Listeners will enjoy Bo's down-to-earth perspective on bourbon as more than just a drink - it’s a social connector, a cultural icon, and a personal passion. Whether you're curious about life behind the camera, the storytelling of Kentucky bourbon, or what makes a good pour among friends, this episode is one to savor. Bourbon on the Banks 2025 Smokeys Lifestyle Cigars The Hill House Bed and Breakfast Be sure to check out our private Facebook group, "The Bourbon Roadies" for a great group of bourbon loving people. You will be welcomed with open arms!

Hosts Jim Shannon and Todd Ritter, feature special guest David Sandlin, bourbon historian and owner of House of Commons in Frankfort, Kentucky . This episode, affectionately dubbed "Crazy Eights," embarks on a fascinating tasting journey through five different versions of Wild Turkey 8-year bourbon . The hosts and David analyze various expressions, starting with the recently released 2025 Wild Turkey 8-year 101 . They delve into its nose, noting hints of peanut shell, lemon, and a spicier, more prominent rye note than typically found in Wild Turkey, along with subtle clove and dark chocolate . The 2025 release is also described as more nutty and spicy compared to the 70th anniversary edition . Next up is the 70th Anniversary release, honored for Jimmy Russell's 70th anniversary . This expression showcases more classic citrus and honey notes, with a softer, more viscous palate and hints of overripe cherries . The discussion touches on the different Wild Turkey rickhouse campuses—Tyrone, McBrayer, and Camp Nelson—and their influence on the bourbon's profile . The journey continues with the 2018 Wild Turkey 8-year 101, which presents a more subdued, classic Wild Turkey profile, with notes of citrus, dark fruits, and honey . Following this, the 2014 Wild Turkey 8-year 101 reveals a distinct "turkey funk," with rich toffee, caramel, and a unique savory, almost meaty flavor, suggesting a lower barrel entry proof . Finally, the 2002 Wild Turkey 8-year 101 is introduced as a "big hitter" . This expression is lauded for its rich, balanced oak and spice, creamy caramel, and evolving flavors of vanilla, offering a concentrated and complex experience . The hosts discuss the history of the 8-year expression, noting its absence from the American market since 1992 until recently, being primarily an export product . The podcast concludes with the hosts and David ranking their top three pours, with the 2002 taking the top spot, followed by the 2014 and the 70th Anniversary edition . David Sandlin, owner of House of Commons, is celebrated for his extensive knowledge of bourbon history, flavors, and his role as a mixologist . House of Commons, located in Frankfort, is highlighted as the only vintage distilled spirits bar in the area, offering a vast selection of Kentucky spirits and a unique bourbon experience, with Airbnbs available above the bar for travelers . Bourbon on the Banks 2025 Smokeys Lifestyle Cigars The Hill House Bed and Breakfast Be sure to check out our private Facebook group, "The Bourbon Roadies" for a great group of bourbon loving people. You will be welcomed with open arms!

This episode of the Bourbon Road podcast features Jim Shannon (traveling in Denver, Colorado) interviewing Al Laws of Laws Whiskey House. Laws shares the history and philosophy behind his Denver-based distillery, emphasizing their grain-to-glass approach using heirloom Colorado grains like Centennial white wheat and San Luis Valley rye. He discusses the mash bill of their flagship Four Grain Bourbon (60% corn, 20% wheat, 10% rye, 10% malt) and the specific flavor contributions of each grain, including the unique "penny metallic bite" from the rye and nutty finish from the scarlet barley. Laws explains how they adjusted their cooking technique to achieve balance in the Four Grain Bourbon and credits his mentor, Bill Friel, a veteran distiller from Bardstown, Kentucky. Laws recounts his personal journey from oil and gas finance in Canada to pursuing his obsession with American whiskey, driven by a desire for hands-on artistry and authenticity. He highlights the historical significance of the Bottle in Bond Act as the first U.S. consumer protection law and Laws Whiskey House's pioneering role as the first Bottled-in-Bond whiskey in Colorado. The conversation also delves into their 100% Rye Whiskey, exploring the earthy notes derived from the soil where the grain is grown at high altitude in the San Luis Valley. They taste a Cognac Cask Finished Bourbon, discussing the process of layering in different aged bourbons into French oak casks and a large 1600-gallon foeder for integration, resulting in a richer, more integrated flavor over years. This Solera-style finished bourbon is a special, limited annual release. They also try a high-proof, high-wheat blend called "Super Wheater," noting its intense flavor and how water or ice can open it up. Laws describes the unique distillery visit experience, featuring a "Whiskey Church" for educational tastings and a "Whiskey Sanctuary" tasting room with panoramic mountain views. He emphasizes the importance of their team, calling the distillery a "village". They discuss distribution, noting availability in about 15-16 states, with Illinois being a strong market, and the best way to purchase is often directly online or at the distillery. Bourbon on the Banks 2025 Smokeys Lifestyle Cigars The Hill House Bed and Breakfast Be sure to check out our private Facebook group, "The Bourbon Roadies" for a great group of bourbon loving people. You will be welcomed with open arms!

This week Jim and Todd connect over long distance to catch up on Bourbon News and drink through a few choice whiskies. Listen in as we gather our thoughts around RTD's, hemp infused drinks, new releases and our latest barrel picks. Lots of fun as always. Bourbon on the Banks 2025 Smokeys Lifestyle Cigars

This week Jim and Todd drink through six finished whiskeys from Lost Lantern's recent releases of both their Single Cask Series as well as their Single Distillery Series. These guys are killing it and definitely need to be on your radar! Listen in for all the details. Bourbon on the Banks 2025 Smokeys Lifestyle Cigars The Hill House Bed and Breakfast Be sure to check out our private Facebook group, "The Bourbon Roadies" for a great group of bourbon loving people. You will be welcomed with open arms!

This week Jim and Todd examine and rank four whiskeys that should be on your radar. One even reaches "hazmat" levels. We will announce a winner of this round. Be sure to tune in and get all the details. Bourbon on the Banks 2025 Smokeys Lifestyle Cigars The Hill House Bed and Breakfast Be sure to check out our private Facebook group, "The Bourbon Roadies" for a great group of bourbon loving people. You will be welcomed with open arms!

This week Jim and Todd welcome two Roadies, Doug and Jer to join us in celebrating red corn bourbons. We have four different red corn bourbons on, featuring Jimmy Red or Blood Bitcher varieties. Listen in as we taste and rank these four bourbons. Bourbon on the Banks 2025 Smokeys Lifestyle Cigars The Hill House Bed and Breakfast Be sure to check out our private Facebook group, "The Bourbon Roadies" for a great group of bourbon loving people. You will be welcomed with open arms!

This week Jim and Todd walk through Jack Daniels 10, 12 and 14 yerar old releases. Also we have the BBC Cathedral Oak as well as Woodfords Chocolate Malt Redux. Listen in for a review session that will have you heading to your local Bourbon Bar. Bourbon on the Banks 2025 Smokeys Lifestyle Cigars The Hill House Bed and Breakfast Be sure to check out our private Facebook group, "The Bourbon Roadies" for a great group of bourbon loving people. You will be welcomed with open arms!

This week Jim and Todd welcome Bobby DeMars of Blind Barrels. Blind Barrels is an exclusive blind whiskey tasting experience that features highly curated blind whiskey expressions. Listen in as we walk through one of their experiences and choose our favorite bottle. Bourbon on the Banks 2025 Smokeys Lifestyle Cigars The Hill House Bed and Breakfast Be sure to check out our private Facebook group, "The Bourbon Roadies" for a great group of bourbon loving people. You will be welcomed with open arms!

Jim and Todd sit down with Diane Strong, Director of Bourbon on the Banks. We taste the Limestone Heritage Small Batch Bourbon as well as Buffalo Trace's Thomas H. Handy while discussing this years event on Frankfort. Listen in for all the details. Smokeys Lifestyle Cigars The Hill House Bed and Breakfast Be sure to check out our private Facebook group, "The Bourbon Roadies" for a great group of bourbon loving people. You will be welcomed with open arms!

Jim and Todd welcome Jeffrey Wack from Hello Again Whiskey Friends Youtube channel. On this episode, Todd breaks out the big guns and we journey through the four most recent years of the Limited Edition releases from Four Roses. Listen in as we taste through these unicorns to find the best of the bunch. Also, a great mystery bonus pour in the second half! The Hill House Bed and Breakfast Be sure to check out our private Facebook group, "The Bourbon Roadies" for a great group of bourbon loving people. You will be welcomed with open arms!

Jim and Todd travel to J. Mattingly 1845 in Frankfort Kentucky to craft a blended expression that speaks to our palates. Listen in as we take six very different barrels to craft an expression that represents our personal preferences. Smokeys Lifestyle Cigars The Hill House Bed and Breakfast Be sure to check out our private Facebook group, "The Bourbon Roadies" for a great group of bourbon loving people. You will be welcomed with open arms!

Jim and Todd celebrate Bottled in Bond day with Drew Hannush, Best-selling Author, Whisky Historian, and World Whisky Ambassador. Join us as we drink through some pretty amazing whiskeys including a 1940's Old Crow Bonded. Smokeys Lifestyle Cigars The Hill House Bed and Breakfast Be sure to check out our private Facebook group, "The Bourbon Roadies" for a great group of bourbon loving people. You will be welcomed with open arms!

Jim and Todd welcome Rob Carter and Amzie Wenning, and the four maltmigos embark on a journey to find exceptional American Single Malt whiskeys. Join us as we taste through 5 great examples and score four of them for the top spot. A fun episode you won't want to miss. Smokeys Lifestyle Cigars The Hill House Bed and Breakfast Be sure to check out our private Facebook group, "The Bourbon Roadies" for a great group of bourbon loving people. You will be welcomed with open arms!

Jim and Todd host Wes Milligan from Bourbon BarrALZ (ENDALZ) to taste through a number of their barrel picks. A great cause dedicated to a cure for Alzheimers. List in and help the cause by picking up one of their great picks. Smokeys Lifestyle Cigars The Hill House Bed and Breakfast Be sure to check out our private Facebook group, "The Bourbon Roadies" for a great group of bourbon loving people. You will be welcomed with open arms!

In this episode, Jim and Todd taste through four separate expressions from Jim Beam, Jack Daniels and Milam and Greene. The Jim Beam entry is very unusual. Listen in as we taste and rate these whiskeys. Smokeys Lifestyle Cigars The Hill House Bed and Breakfast Be sure to check out our private Facebook group, "The Bourbon Roadies" for a great group of bourbon loving people. You will be welcomed with open arms!

In this episode, Jim and Todd hit the road and head out to Lancaster Kentucky, home of Garrard County Distilling Co. Listen in as we dive into the story of distillery and its brand All Nations. Smokeys Lifestyle Cigars The Hill House Bed and Breakfast Be sure to check out our private Facebook group, "The Bourbon Roadies" for a great group of bourbon loving people. You will be welcomed with open arms!

In this episode, Jim and Todd join with special guest Amzie Wenning. We dive into a very special Wild Turkey release and three different recent Jim Beam releases. You'll get a kick out of this one! Smokeys Lifestyle Cigars The Hill House Bed and Breakfast Be sure to check out our private Facebook group, "The Bourbon Roadies" for a great group of bourbon loving people. You will be welcomed with open arms!