Are these 5 Bourbons worth the TIME and MONEY?

[@aaronwurtzel7287]

As someone who works as the whiskey conessieur in our liquor store in Illinois, I appreciate your channel. Thank you for everything you are doing to open the world to stuff outside of allocated whiskey.

[@waynemontpetit8181]

Great channel! I just got a call from an ABC store in my state, they pulled my name this morning and I'm going to get my E.H. Taylor Small Batch now 🙂

[@slbdrinks]

That’s insane! How awesome is that! Enjoy!

[@ryanf7729]

I know this is a year old video. But, I was able to pu two bottles of Elmer T Lee today at our local liquor store for $59 a piece. Never thought I’d see one bottle! Just so darn excited! Merry Christmas!

[@paulring4267]

I do appreciate you not using foul language. Thank you. You’re a joy to watch.

[@slbdrinks]

Appreciate you noticing that. It bothers me as well while watching other channels. I am not perfect that’s for sure but I don’t see why one can’t express themselves without using bad language.

[@Soldano999]

Thanks for the weller advice. My local store here in the south of france has a very limited selection American whiskey but they did have a few bottles of this. at 45€ each it turned out to be a steal.

[@larrypurcell211]

This guy is good. Very good teacher. Nice and bright atmospheric bar! Thank you!

[@slbdrinks]

Appreciate your kind words!

[@hollyjhj3732]

I love your videos, Kurt, and my home bar is definitely getting more interesting because of you! I can't help staring at the beautiful bottle collection behind you. I think it would be very cool if you did a video featuring some of the "neglected" bottles that have maybe made their way toward the back of your shelf for reasons good or bad. I know I'm guilty of doing that, and at times I rediscover gems I forgot about and fall back in love with some old favorites. Keep up the great content!

[@slbdrinks]

Thank you! Appreciate the ideas!

[@Xander-dx6mw]

Elmer T. Lee is a great bottle for retail prices, and I agree with a $75 maximum price. Weller 12 has a special place in my heart - it was my granddad's favorite, and he introduced it to me. I would happily pay $80 for it, but not a dime more. I had a bottle of the 2019 Old Fitzgerald BiB and paid $140 (retail then), and would be hard pressed to buy it again. It was a great pour, but do not see it as being 2 to 3x times better than others. I've never found the Stagg Jr. or George T. Stagg locally, so I have nothing to offer there. I did overpay for a William LaRue Weller in 2018 ($300), and would consider buying it again at that price.

[@slbdrinks]

You always have excellent insight to your comments! I would more than likely pop for that William Larue as well. Great story on that Weller 12!

[@pumagutten]

Great to see a bottle of Old Fitzgerald again. I haven't seen it since I bought a bottle in Edinburgh, Scotland in October 2005. Mind you, my bottle did not reach your bottle's price level, he, he. It was a very pleasant price.

[@slbdrinks]

I can only imagine. Fortunately we have a couple store owners who sell close to retail. That being said the Fitz was still about 150.00. Far cry from 2005 I am sure.

[@Jack-nx4rt]

Your videos are so wholesome! Please keep the videos coming they’re awesome

[@slbdrinks]

Certainly appreciate that! Thank you!

[@ironmantran]

Great video: brings back SO MUCH memories: i was lucky enough to start sipping bourbon in 2005, then get a small collection of BTAC in 2008-2012 before the madness starts. Now, i take my time to alternate drinking these BTAC with many other bottles more readily available : EZra 7 cask strength, Weller 107, Bulleit Cask Strength, Booker, ...

[@slbdrinks]

Wow how awesome you were able to build your collection at the right time! Thanks for your input!

[@jgreenturkey2]

Whiskey/Bourbon noob. I've gained a bunch of insight through just a few of your videos. Thank you so much. Separate topic, put your camera on manual focus with a decent aperture and it wont go in and out of focus during your videos. Cheers!

[@slbdrinks]

Thanks for the tip that’s been driving me nuts! Trent is a computer whizz and I am worthless with tech stuff so in general we struggle with that camera! Thanks again!

[@Xander-dx6mw]

I think he is shooting with a 35- 50mm lens on an APS-C body, or some equivalent. If more light is added behind the lense toward the bar, you can stop up the F-value and lock a manual focus. Kurt, if you read this, don't take it as an insult. Different lighting and framing require separate settings. I know this will sound crazy, but if a family member has an iphone 11 or above, try filming a sample with that. The issue is the camera's autofocus is looking for the star of the show. Sometimes that is the bottle on the bar, other times it is the Old Fitzgerald over your left shoulder (as we see you). This is called focus breathing. As you increase light, you can use a higher f value, and thereby have a wider depth in focus. Depth of field is how much is in perfect focus. For still pictures you can play with light (iso), time (shutter speed), and aperture to make it as thin (facial portraits) or thick (landscape pictures) as you want. In video, shutter speed has a defined range, as does iso. You are left with increasing light to decrease the aperture to create more depth of field, and lock a manual focus. Iphones use magical pixies and technology to get better video quality at low light without focus breathing, and great depth of field. Keep up the great content!

[@slbdrinks]

I never take constructive criticism as an insult. I always appreciate the help. Again, I myself am definitely not techy in any fashion lol. We are using a Lumex camera that I know. Trents background is computer not film so he came over last night so we can work on this issue. I screen shot your comment so hopefully we can come up with a solution. Thanks so much for your advice!

[@Xander-dx6mw]

@@slbdrinks is it a Lumix GH5 by chance?

[@slbdrinks]

Trent tells me it’s a G7.

[@whynotwyatt294]

This video is why i subscribed I never subscribed this fast to any channel before you seem cool and down to earth I have 3 of the five

[@slbdrinks]

Been a while since I have been called “cool” but certainly appreciate it! What you see is what you get with me. Just a simple dude who loves talking whiskey, spirits, and cocktails. I have learned so much from all of you. Thanks so much for your support!

[@alexanderagapov3461]

Once more amazing video i am kind of new to this whole whiskey experience but i would say that I enjoy the experience very much and I do learn a lot with your videos I enjoy them and learn from them Thank you very much🎉

[@slbdrinks]

Appreciate that thank you!

[@jeremiahchamberlin4499]

Thank you for introducing some samples of allocated Bourbons. I have often wondered about the category and what it meant. I also really like your presentations, especially the five (5) bottles. It helps me to know what’s coming, and I can anticipate the next bottle while you’re talking about the current one.

[@slbdrinks]

I appreciate your kind words. Thank you!

[@CWChandler1968]

I got GT Stagg at retail last fathers day ($99). I will never get that lucky again. I got 3 Blantons this fathers day. Have not seen an antique collection this year, and I hunt quite a bit.

[@slbdrinks]

Wow great buy on that Stagg! I work a lot so don’t have as much time as I would like hunting but my brother and son look out for me 😀

[@daryl7277]

I'm a manager at a wine and liquor store. The antique collection has been getting released later and later each year. In new york we didn't get it last year until early December. Besides the Pappy 15, the George T Stagg is the best bourbon out there.

[@slbdrinks]

I have had the Stagg and you are sooo right! Unfortunately never had any Pappy yet.

[@daryl7277]

@@slbdrinks come to New York I'll get you a Pappy! All kidding aside if you do end up getting a Pappy definitely get the 15yr. Too much wood on the 20 and 23 yr.

[@davidsaporsky1306]

I worked at a bottle shop in college (2010 grad) and back then, we had pappy 12, 15, and 20 on the shelf for $40, $60, and $100. The 23 year was locked up because it was $300. I think that bottle is $7k or so right now... I picked up a bottle of Elmer T Lee commemorative edition for $35 when it came out. I still have it. I tried my buddies bottle, and it was really good! Now you can get one online for $3,500. Nuts! Also, back then, there were bourbons on the shelf that were unreal that nothing today can compare to. Black Maple Hill was my absolute favorite. $40. They stopped making it for a while, but it's back and not the same stuff. I wouldn't buy the current version again. Crazy how the stuff people are raving about today was just "pretty good bourbon" 10 or 12 years ago. Gotta say though, Pappy 12 is still probably my favorite bourbon ever. Cheers!

[@slbdrinks]

That’s definitely the good old days!

[@jsgoudy]

I live in Chicago, there is a bar 3 blocks from my house that essentially has any bourbon or whisky you could ever wanna try, from Pappy 23 to Col EH Taylor to Blantons to everything in between. I don’t chase any bourbons when I can just go to Longman and Eagle and get a pour

[@slbdrinks]

That’s awesome you have that opportunity so close! I don’t have anything like that at all. I can always take a road trip!

[@dragland7268]

I thought you were going to say $2000 on the George T. Stagg also. I enjoyed your demeanor and candor. Subbed for more!

[@slbdrinks]

😬😬😬 that would not have been good lol! Thank you!

[@kennethv.roejr.3434]

Really enjoyed this video. I will definitely keep my eyes peeled in hopes of finding one of them. Thanks again for putting out this info.

[@slbdrinks]

Thanks so much!

[@terrymoore4933]

Love watching your take on all the allocated bourbons!

[@slbdrinks]

Thank you!

[@maltedbarleyman7834]

I'm new to the channel, and I'm really enjoying your videos. I have been very tempted to pull the trigger on a bottle of George Stagg for $500, but I think it's extremely important for us consumers to not give in to these secondary prices. I've been guilty of it myself. I paid $300 for an Old Carter that was absolutely not worth it. Anyway, keep the great content coming. Cheers🥃

[@slbdrinks]

We have all done it if we are honest. I don’t blame you for wanting to buy the Stagg at 500. Hopefully you find it soon for less.

[@mrbourbonfromky733]

First time watching your videos. I love your honesty. I agree with you. I love the wife in the background letting you have it ( all to common, if you know what I mean).

[@narinthip3058]

First go all, recently found your channel and love it very much. Yes, GTS (I believe I sipped 2018 version) and Four Roses Al Young 50th Anniversary so far are the best bourbon I had tried. Stagg junior is very nice for its MSRP and it was so easy to find back in the day. I am still milling Weller 12 1L bottle and the Stagg Jr till I can find new bottles. Cheers

[@mikenierenhausen2179]

Just stumbled on to your channel! Great stuff; picked up a bottle of Knob Creek Single Barrel 120 for $49.99! It was the last bottle at Total Wine. Thanks for the tip. Yeah the auto focus is a issue get that sorted and you're set!!!

[@slbdrinks]

Will do. Thank you!

[@billfuhry2112]

I LOVE Elmer T Lee and regret not buying ten bottles when they were plentiful on the shelf for retail at our local liquor store.

[@slbdrinks]

I was not into bourbon during that time but my brother tells me the same stories. Hard to believe.

[@zacd7094]

Picked up some eh Taylor small batch for $100! Was super nervous but glad I did. Great stuff!

[@slbdrinks]

Good deal! I also have small batch and it is very good!

[@bobbonj1171]

What Ky Owl is she referring to? I have the Confiscated and Rye…both are excellent! Sounds like you didn’t care for it? I love Weller SP easy go to pour…

[@slbdrinks]

No unfortunately I wish one of those were it. This is there 100 yr prohibition anniversary bottle called dry state. I have the KO 10 yr rye and batch 9 bourbon I believe which are both very good. Weller sp is another good pour!

[@DBTdad]

Some much honesty here. Much appreciated.

[@slbdrinks]

Thank you so much! That’s how we all learn IMO.

[@rallen1449]

I gotten a couple wellers from a buddy at abc liquor for around 30 bucks a bottle. One of my favs

[@slbdrinks]

Fantastic buy!

[@dreddiemurphy6990]

Now waht do you think a fair trade for an Elmer? I won one in state lotto and would love to turn it into a RR13 or Stagg Jr. lol

[@andrewma923]

Subscribed. I like this guy!

[@slbdrinks]

Thank you!

[@coryhimmelspach1101]

In canada stuff like little book, 291 barrel proof, Penelope barrel proof and michters 10 are all 150-250 at retail. Ill pay over retail for stagg jr or weller 12 any day.

[@slbdrinks]

Crazy how the whiskey market is so different around the world. I have been looking for Old Grandad bib for weeks around my area and haven’t seen it. Good point on the last 2!

[@nextgenerationmudracing399]

I have a Elmer T, Stagg Batch 15, and Weller 12. I am lucky enough to pay retail on all but the Weller cause it came as a set w a Full Proof, Antique 107, and the 12.

[@slbdrinks]

Wow really nice collection you have going!

[@nextgenerationmudracing399]

@@slbdrinks i am impatiently waiting on the batch 16 stagg cause i heard its even better than batch 15. Supposed to hit my state Oct 1st

[@slbdrinks]

Good luck! I have 12,13, and 14. I didn’t have any luck finding 15 unfortunately.

[@nextgenerationmudracing399]

@@slbdrinks i am lucky enough to be a store manager for a liquor store chain and get 1st dibs. Also i do the barrel picks for our company. I did a barrel of blantons and eagle rare this year for em

[@slbdrinks]

Wow how cool was that experience??!!

[@bill-qv3er]

Most of them are never seen where I live in North Florida. The Old Fitz was about $300, The Elmer T. Lee was about $200, never seen the Weller, the Stagg Jr. was about $120, George T. Stagg was $1,200 !! Love the videos , Thanks

[@scurfie2343]

Have you tried Jack Daniels single barrel - barrel proof? It's available in PA and it's around $65.

[@slbdrinks]

Yes I have one in the bar and I think it’s outstanding!

[@Jason-vi2pj]

I'm really enjoying the videos. ATM I mix mine with Pepsi but want to learn how to drink eat and on the ice.

[@slbdrinks]

Take your time. You will get there!

[@btwarner2124]

Elmer Tee in my opinion is like you said. It is so easy to drink. Worth 100 in my opinion. Are you looking for a Full Proof?

[@slbdrinks]

A full proof would be amazing! Have never seen one.

[@btwarner2124]

@@slbdrinks you are in Indiana? How can I email you. I live in the Chicago burbs but my office is in Indiana. I got ya covered. It's legit! Drinking Old Elk with your recommendation on cherry liqueur right now. 109.8 proof.

[@slbdrinks]

Nice! You can email at SLBdrinks @gmail.com. Thank you

[@btwarner2124]

@@slbdrinks check your email

[@brianw3822]

I bought a George T Stagg years ago for $100 and it was excellent. The Lee is Pretty good as well. The Weller 12 I would pay $25 years ago, not that special not even close to as good as Vanwinkle Lot B which was $45 at the time my favorite. Old Fitzgerald, I would go $150 for that bottle I love that stuff, Birthday Bourbon is out of hand but was my second favorite bourbon. I still have some pints flasks of the old Fitzgerald prohibition repeal bourbon that was supposed to be the formula after prohibition ended. It came in a set with two tasting glasses . I had about 15 of these and I believe I am down to my last two or three. I still have a Van Winkle Family Rye left in my collection which is pretty damn tasty as well

[@slbdrinks]

Wow! Such great whiskeys and more importantly the stories that come with them!

[@Setking23]

Haha when the wife is gone ,we should do the most expensive lol

[@slbdrinks]

Good lord Trent was talking about doing that video! Hmmmmm

[@anthonyputtkammer6263]

Nice video ... I like the opinions.... I never really know what to pay ???

[@slbdrinks]

Appreciate that thank you

[@danielgrandon2701]

Thanks for sharing!

[@MrJpdad04]

Glad I stumbled on to your channel. Great content. Just wondering where you live to find these great prices. I did see a liquorama sticker on one of your bottles. SoCal?

[@slbdrinks]

Actually no. Good catch on that sticker but it was an internet purchase. I live in NW In close to Lake Michigan and about 60 min from Chicago. We are fortunate to have store owners in our area that sell at retail or close to it.

[@IndyGuy65]

I have a bottle of Weller Special Reserve that was a gift from a friend and it is great. Its my special occasion bourbon. I also had samples of Stagg Jr and it is the best IMO. If I do see Stagg Jr I would pay around $100 for it because its that good.

[@jerrylullo5425]

9mm

[@slbdrinks]

It truly is that good and I wouldn’t blame you one bit!

[@TonyClarkGuitar]

Another great video. I've had Weller. Underwhelming for the price. I have been searching for Elmer T Lee for a while. I have 2 bottles of Blanton's. One was a gift, the other I paid retail. I don't have any of the others so I will have to check them out. I just enjoyed a glass of Rebel Yell Single Barrel 10 year from Lux Row distilleries. I live in Louisville, KY so getting my hands on KY bourbon is usually not a problem, but some of these are hard to come by. If you haven't tried the Rebel Yell 10 year, please do and give it a review. Also, have you tried the Bulleit 10 year? It's really good. Bulleit 10, Russels Reserve Single Barrel Select and Rebel Yell 10 are my 3 go-to bourbons when I want to drink bourbon neat.

[@slbdrinks]

Excellent choices! I did include the Rebel single barrel in the better than Blantons video. You are spot on it is outstanding! Keep up the search for retail or close to it pricing, you will find them.

[@slbdrinks]

Oh and by the way I do have Bulleit 10 and I like it a lot as well!

[@beerme8949]

For the proof point and flavor profile. I personally would pay up to 115ish for stagg Jr. But thats just me. I never had the George t stagg :(. Great content! And great collection you got there!

[@slbdrinks]

Thank you! Sure appreciate it. I understand completely with Stagg Jr. Truly amazing bourbon so I wouldn’t be knocking you for that.

[@jimtuggey]

Of these the only one of had is Weller 12, it’s good but definitely not secondary price good. I’m curious if you’ve tried Knob Creek 12, what you think of it?

[@slbdrinks]

I do like KC 12. I have it in the bar. For the money I think it’s an excellent value!

[@bluelivesmatter719]

Knob 12 is delicious if you can find

[@nervousordo]

I'm just getting into Bourbon as well as other mixed drinks. Maybe someday I might pay more than $50 for a 750 ml bottle but as of now there are so many to try in the $25-$30 range. Right now Makers Mark is the winner for my wife and me (just above Buffalo Trace)

[@slbdrinks]

Your on a good path with that plan. So many good ones to choose in that price category as well.

[@tweezerjam]

I’m with you- i rarely pay over $40👍🏼

[@seckler17]

That is actually a 2018 Georg T Stagg, 2019 was 116 proof. Great video!

[@slbdrinks]

Thank you!

[@dennismhac23]

I found the GTS Antique for $200 last year at my liquor store, I bought it. I've seen it for $800 at other mom and pops. The Stagg Jr. I've see at mom and pops for $400, I've bought it at $79. Old Fitzgerald I've had at a bar, never had Weller 12 or Elmer. I'll tell you this, nothing beats that George T Stagg antique collection.

[@slbdrinks]

Omg you got that right and IMO I think you got a fair deal at 200 and the rest of your purchases. Good work!

[@DongHands84]

I'm the same way with Eagle Rare 10 year. If I catch when it drops I'll pick up a bottle to be bunkered, but if I'm low or down to my last one I'll pay up to $80 depending how badly I feel I need it.

[@slbdrinks]

Your choice completely. ER is good stuff!

[@ebunch1911]

Yeah I always catch it at not so popular stores. My last find, it was $37 a bottle I bought 2.

[@nick263]

I get mine for $36 but I saw it at another place for $105. Laughed and walked out

[@kevinkevin8912]

I'm in Ireland, Got a bottle of ER recently for 40 euro, how much is that in dollars??? Lovely drink but don't think Id pay more.

[@billsedutto8824]

I was in the liquor store today and they had a bottle Old Fitzgerald. I knew when it was in a glass case it wasn’t gonna be cheap but $400?!?!? Are they nuts?

[@tonyd.2609]

Stagg Jr. --- I paid $15 for a pour (1.5 shots) at a local (Baton Rouge) bourbon tasting and fell in love with this! Searched and only found it for $300/bottle online; nothing is available locally. Needless to say, I ordered it. Upon delivery, I gave it a taste and absolutely loved this! Yes, I bought another right away! The bottom line is this... everything and anything is available for a price... if it is valued by the buyer.

[@mbranbb]

Yeh I’ve seen 2 stagg jr’s in the wild. 1 I snatched up for $73 a few weeks back and the other was last week for $200 and I pasted on that 1. The good news is I have a GREAT relationship with a store owner who contacts me first on all of his allocated bourbons. And he sell all of his stuff to me for right at retail. BUT I always throw him a cash tip for helping me out and I’ll surprise him with lunches every now and then.

[@AMKR4Lyfe]

What’s up you MB’s! (whiskey Tribe Gang 😂); new sub - dig the content! One constructive criticism: which might not be your fault as I’ve never seen a camera with such aggressive auto focus - you put your hand half an arms length towards it - focus on hand - back to you; it’s so temperamental. Maybe its the lights on the bar (lightbox behind cam may fox that?? I don’t know much about video so fix the rapid focus & unfocusing and bellissimo! I’m an audio/digital audio workstation & home studio owner with - video I’m lost with though audio is 8/10 - are you using a lapel, a boom mic, lav or just the cameras on board mic (er or DSLR? 😂 confess I dunno how a DSLR even works lol) Just curious audio is rather good other than sounding distant. Keep up the good work! Cheers you MB’s! *drinks Balcones Texas Rye 100 proof*

[@slbdrinks]

Appreciate your help with the camera. My son is a computer guy but we are both learning in the video field.

[@idamartinez9968]

Wondered if you had a opinion on Garrison Brothers "Cowboy Bourbon" or have you mentioned it before?

[@slbdrinks]

Haven’t mentioned it but it’s just not my favorite. I have the single barrel and it seems to be a bit harsh with some off putting flavors. Other releases might be better not sure. Truthfully I haven’t found a Texas whiskey I have really liked yet.

[@danielstermole1234]

Hello. I recently acquired a bottle of Blantons single barrel bottled at 46.5 %. It's from 8/21. I bought it on a whim because I know of its rarity. I'm looking to sell it because I'm more of a single malt scotch lover. Any ideas how I can do this ? Legally of course!

[@slbdrinks]

I honestly have never sold any bottles that I have purchased but I have purchased bottles from Craigslist. You might want to start there.

[@danielstermole1234]

@@slbdrinks Ok. Thanks for the info. I thought it was illegal to sell alcohol on CL but I guess I was wrong. Just curious but what category did you find it under?

[@slbdrinks]

Can’t truly say one way or the other concerning legality but if you type bourbon in the search bar you should see others with allocated selections for sale.

[@victorlong4677]

Had a bottle of Elmer T Lee given to me by a dear friend from Kentucky. Put it away for a special occasion. Went out of town. Son threw a party while I was gone. Drank all my Elmer T Lee. That one part is the straw that broke the camels back. Present day still don’t have anymore Elmer T Lee. But as we now share bourbons together (father & adult son) we can laugh about !!

[@slbdrinks]

Wow what a story lol! Love the stories that come around just from bourbon! Thank you

[@robzilla69]

Weller antique 107 is better than 12 imo. Glad my wife doesn't care what I spend on whiskey!

[@slbdrinks]

Lol me to! I can respect your opinion on the Weller.

[@bluelivesmatter719]

Agreed, I dig the Antique more as well

[@whiskywatches]

That GTS was the 2018 release which was 10x's better than the 2019. That being said I have to disagree that it was better than WLW, which is probably one of my all time favorite expression. I love your collection and yes I see that Hibiki 21 hanging out on the top shelf. Now that's an awesome pour!

[@slbdrinks]

That one is coming up. It’s like no other pour I have ever had. Its a truly amazing whiskey!

[@chucksavage1980]

Stagg Jr. is my absolute favorite of all the bourbon that I have tasted. I have a bottle of George T. Stagg that I paid $107 for and I just can't open it, but I want to soo bad.

[@bmgleaso]

Do it.

[@slbdrinks]

Great deal on the Stagg! Hopefully you enjoy it at some point rather than sell it for profit.

[@flatwater5]

You have to try Dog Master bourbon out of Missouri! Magnificent mash bill, really nice pour.

[@scottf.8627]

Curious if you gas any of your opened bottles such as these or others to avoid oxidation?

[@slbdrinks]

I have not. I really can’t tell a difference at this point but over time it might.

[@scottf.8627]

@@slbdrinks I've been tinkering with Private Preserve and I have approx 50 bottles open at any one point. Eagle Rare has been one of the more sensitive bourbons to oxidation IMHO. Next time you crack a new one open and get past the neck pour it opens up really nice at the 6-8 week point and tapers off as the months pass by (if it lasts that long ;-)).

[@slbdrinks]

Question, how do you go about “gas” your open bottles?

[@scottf.8627]

@@slbdrinks Private Preserve is a mixture of inert gases heavier than oxygen. The can has a straw you attach and you simply stick in the top of the bottle with the cork resting on the straw and make three quick sprays into the bottle and then pull out the straw and cork your bottle. From there you don't want to shake the bottle and just place it back on your shelf. Each time you take a pour repeat the process before you put your bottle away. Cheers!

[@slbdrinks]

Great advice thank you! I will look into it!

[@yaronbinyamini241]

I really enjoy your channel and the content, one little thing, maybe you want to set your camera focus to a fixed/manual setting as it is struggling a lot on most of your videos.

[@slbdrinks]

We are making changes so hopefully we will get it right on the next one. Thanks for checking in.

[@yaronbinyamini241]

@@slbdrinks Thanks for your reply and thanks again for the content!

[@sissydreams7494]

Great video! I have a near 200 bottle collection of whisk(e)y, mostly bourbon with some rye and scotch. There was a time when all of the allocated bourbons were exceptional. The old stand-byes still are (like BTAC, Birthday Bourbon & Pappy), but they are really really difficult to source now. Many, if not MOST, of the newer & very expensive allocated bourbons really are NOT worth it. We are still in a bourbon bubble with hipsters & the asian markets buying anything that has bragging rights (like very expensive bottles with a marketing STORY). This has brought out a lot of brands that just don't put the proper care into making and aging the juice properly. I stick to the known, quality stuff. In fact, I have a bunch of bottles that I hesitate to open. Some could be sold for $700 to $1,500 each (NOT that I would sell them, I'm no profiteer). However, once you open it, it's worthless. And, now, I can't replace it. So, when it's gone, IT'S GONE!!! The good think is, I've never paid much more than MSRP for any of my bottles (including BTAC and Pappy), so maybe I should just enjoy them! You can't take 'em with you. Separately, not too many years ago, you used to be able to buy Weller Antique 107 for $21, Weller Special Reserve for $23, and Weller 12 year for $40. I used to find more bottles of them than I could buy. Those times are gone. The secret is out and now the hipsters are aware. You're lucky to find any of those for $75 (if not a LOT more). Stores gouge even regular customers, now, too. On the other hand, there are GREAT bourbons on the shelf, that are easy to get and fairly priced. Now, I focus on those and enjoy THEM. People would be shocked if they EVER did a blind taste test. I'd bet $100 that most would regularly pick the easily accessible bourbons over the over-priced allocated junk that's out there. Anyway, enough of my rant. :) Thanks very much for the vids that you put out and the thoughts that you share!

[@slbdrinks]

Well thought out and written. I truly wasn’t into bourbon and whiskey before it was popular so I have never seen those kind of prices. Shame what is happening on that level. Nothing but respect for you concerning enjoying what you have. I have never sold one of my bottles but have given some away and shared any and all in my collection including the higher priced variety. You can’t take it with you for sure!

[@nervousordo]

Would love to hear your favorite bourbons under $40.

[@btwarner2124]

7 years ago I bought 5 bottles of Elmer Tee Lee for 42 bucks each. I drank it daily... Not knowing what would happen. I enjoyed it and still love it.

[@shoshansmith2346]

Hey Kurt thanks for the videos! I’m looking to get an oak barrel so my kid can age his own spirits. What’s your thoughts on it? Can you really taste the difference?

[@slbdrinks]

Wow, to be honest I have never tasted a spirit that was aged from home. You can def taste oak influences from whiskey to whiskey so I would say give it a shot! Let me know how it comes out if you do!

[@gilliesuit]

I thought I was stroking out with those focus changes😂

[@johnhedgerguitarstudio3436]

Great video! I learned a lot. I'm curious about what you think of Pappy Van Winkle - if you've tried it. I tried one shot of the 15 year at a local bar here in Lexington ky - had to wait in line for a couple hours plus wait a couple more hours once inside but only paid the basic retail price...a few bucks. Finally when I got it I thought it was a bit bitter actually, thus overrated, but I'm no expert.

[@slbdrinks]

I am no expert either just someone who enjoys whiskey and likes talking about it. Truthfully, I have never had the opportunity to try Pappy. I heard the 15 yr was the sweet spot but who knows. Thank you for checking in.

[@robertlee6781]

I’m definitely not an expert, but I have had Pappy 23 and Van Winkle 12 Lot B. Was it good? Yes. Would I stand in line or pay 5x retail? No. My belief about all this is if you come across it at a reasonable cost, go for it. Don’t fall for the hype, especially given the crazy changes in cost due to the craze. Just find something decent, share it with friends and family, and it will be some of the best bourbon ever.

[@slbdrinks]

Brilliant explanation of bourbon / whiskey in today’s times! Thank you

[@matttalksbeer1474]

the camera refocusing at the beginning of the video drove me crazy but the content is great! keep up the awesome work! cheers!

[@slbdrinks]

Drove me crazy to! Our more current videos are much better. Learn as we go.

[@daryl7277]

George T Stagg is the best bourbon out there! I'm curious are you interested in drinking wine. I love your channel by the way.

[@slbdrinks]

Thanks so much! Truthfully I am not much of a wine guy and really can’t stand beer.

[@daryl7277]

@@slbdrinks I was just curious because believe it or not you get a lot of the same flavor profiles in a good red wine as you do with a good bourbon.

[@slbdrinks]

Good to know. I have never had any good direction concerning wine. Do you have a recommendation?

[@daryl7277]

@@slbdrinks a good merlot from Washington state would be a nice place to start. My favorite though are two Italian wines. Ask for a nero d'avola, or my personal favorite nebbiolo. Those are the names of the grapes.

[@whiskeywithe7907]

I did enjoy the weller 12 guess i used 2 go live on bourbon groups giving my thoughts and opinion. And yep i found 4 bottles ..they each costed 220 but thats cause im in australia so when you find things you feel u gotta pay what ever as that might be the last time i see it ...rather pay 250 for the masterskeep 17yr over grabbing blanton's. Thik on my last blanton's s.r cost 70 but the sftb cost 190 ..but i would love 2 find a stagg jr or any of the antique collection that be good as u never see .guess my go 2 is rarebreed for 89 ...George t stagg .i would love 2 find but that was funny the sounds your wife making when you said 700 lol.cheers

[@slbdrinks]

Appreciate you lol! I have read similar comments on Australia pricing unfortunately for you. I never did find the Masters Keep 17 bib so that’s awesome for you!

[@daniels2981]

Hey im new to your channel and i love it so far. But one thing is still bothering me for what does the "SLB" stand in your name :D. Hopefully i m not a fool for not finding it somewhere plain in sight

[@slbdrinks]

You are not a fool for sure. I am surprised but you are the only one that has asked. We will have a bar tour video coming up in a few weeks and I will spill the beans on the origination of SLB.

[@physics2112]

Like or Dislike: Like. Another thoroughly enjoyable video.

[@slbdrinks]

Thank you! Appreciate it!

[@WoodrowWoods2007]

I wouldn’t pay above MSRP for any bottle. Too many other bottles out there just waiting to be discovered!

[@ipodjockey2432]

I like your videos. Just so you k ow the auto-focus is having a hard time when you step back. Might need to adjust the distance.

[@slbdrinks]

Ya sorry. We are working on that for future videos. Hopefully we will get it right. Thanks for bringing it to our attention.

[@ikiruyamamoto1050]

Thoughtful and relevant video as usual. But, the pricing info and values need some more context. Are you making a value assessment purely on taste (i.e. in order of your absolute favorites which you'd pay the most for to your least favorites)? (I guess that is where blind tasting is useful.) Or are you also factoring in scarcity? I guess this type of analysis is very similar to your prior video about the accessible bourbons you like more than Blanton's. In any event, that would mean if you liked Four Roses Single Barrel better than George T. Stagg, then you should also be content to pay "$250 or less" for the Four Roses. Or, in reality, does scarcity and msrp act as an "anchor" to what you'd be willing to pay, even if you like it better (e.g. "I can Four Roses Single Barrel every day of the week for $50, so why pay more...even if I like it more than a $250 bottle of another brand.")? Sorry to be longwinded, but let's take your "biggest regret" the $1,000 Kentucky Owl. Do you like that taste better than Russell's Reserve Single Barrel? If not, does that mean you shouldn't have paid over $60 for the Kentucky Owl? (Oh, the things we do for our hobbies! Ha!)

[@slbdrinks]

Lol very eloquent my friend! Good points! Quick info, judging by both taste and availability. Every allocated bottle in this video I would prefer in taste over the better than Blantons video. Elmer is very close in the conversation but the remaining 4 are much better in taste IMO. Good thoughts! Thank you

[@stevenshytles3484]

I like your show.

[@slbdrinks]

Thanks so much!

[@jackpatronski2299]

Please try Elmer T. Lee & 7up !

[@slbdrinks]

Really?? Huh, hey I am up for all recommendations so why not.

[@BoozeBriefs]

Is that a Malfy gin on the shelf? Would love to hear how you use that one!

[@slbdrinks]

It is! That’s the Rosa or pink grapefruit gin. I like to make a grapefruit gin and tonic with it mostly but it’s pretty delish on its own!

[@gpeterson41]

Have you done a show on single malt scotches at a reasonable price point?

[@slbdrinks]

We did a best of 12 yr single malt which is somewhat budget friendly. Good idea though to do a show focusing on budget single malt only.

[@lordgarth1]

ETL is the only one I haven’t acquired at retail price but I should have one soon.

[@slbdrinks]

Good for you! I have never seen one to date but the boy walked in to a sweet deal!

[@Urotsukidoji1]

ah, the cost of the these white wales... I know it all to well, I'm into bourbon, craft beer, and vintage ports.... I have def spent too much on certain things...

[@slbdrinks]

Me to my friend! Wouldn’t mind checking out some of that port though lol

[@MrRossman2]

I have only seen those bottles once in my area at a total rip off liquor store. $800 for GTS.

[@slbdrinks]

Ya I have seen a few for that price in stores as well. Unfortunately there will always be that person who will buy it for 800.

[@bourbontraveler]

Just bought 2 of the 2018 They were more than 500 Was it worth it, I don’t know I won’t resell them I may drink them I may not And Kurt I still owe you that 4🌹’s

[@slbdrinks]

Wow that really does sound amazing! Truly you don’t owe me anything my friend but your generosity would be certainly appreciated!

[@timc2620]

Little tip - choose a fixed focal length, the auto-focusing is wildly distracting. Since you are at a fixed spot, dial in focusing on that length.

[@slbdrinks]

It is I’m sorry. Got some good tips so hopefully we will get it right on the next one. Thank you

[@bluelivesmatter719]

I have a bottle of Stagg JR batch 13 and it’s outstanding. Paid $60 but would be fine paying $100

[@slbdrinks]

I can’t argue that. Batch 13 is phenomenal!

[@rsevp179]

What does SLB stand for?

[@slbdrinks]

It’s an ode to my mom and stands for strong like bull. I go into more detail in the bar tour video if you want to check it out.

[@thegaragebar5133]

Would u pay 160 for the weller ? I found it for 160 everyone else wants 300-450

[@slbdrinks]

Well tough question. For me probably not but that’s easy to say because I have one. Individual decision if you have never had the opportunity to own one. I have over spent on a few bottles to be sure when I knew it would be a one time purchase.

[@taylorschuetz7272]

Every do any Texas Bourbons?

[@slbdrinks]

I have a few yes. Hoping to do an all Texas whiskey show soon!

[@ebee3522]

Good segment my only gripe is having to see a commercial from a thug pimp rapper named Snoopy trying to sell his crappy wine to me.

[@Setking23]

Thanks for the videos! You’re awesome!

[@slbdrinks]

Wow thanks for that! Appreciate your kindness!

[@DonDon-zm3vz]

had the weller special reserve the other night … DELICIOUS. i’m writing this post after literally finishing 3 glasses of buffalo trace…. also DELICIOUS

[@slbdrinks]

Lol that’s awesome! Appreciate your insight here!

[@garyhallgren]

One of my local stores used to carry Old Fitzgerald bottled-in-bond 100 proof at a very cheap price. Now no Old Fitz at all. I was told the 100 proof b in b was dropped. WTF? It was excellent for the price.

[@slbdrinks]

I did hear something about that. I believe they dropped it in favor of Larceny. To bad.

[@danneiswender3118]

Weller 12 is awesome. I'd put up to 140 for it.

[@slbdrinks]

It is very good and value can only be determined by the consumer.

[@31446963048]

Value is what you put on it. I would rather see people assess their financial situations first before buying to compete with others. And not directed at you. Just a general observation.

[@slbdrinks]

That’s a very educated comment and spot on! Thanks for this excellent perspective!

[@kennyr3751]

yes they are

[@frankmastromauro5630]

Good video

[@slbdrinks]

Thank you

[@ubon39]

SLB what state are you in?

[@slbdrinks]

Hello, we live in NW Indiana.

[@sinelocum]

I’m enjoying making comments. I have opinions

[@gaylemcgee2221]

Loved when your wife cleared her throat when you mentioned $700 dollars!!! Promises, promises!!! That was priceless!

[@slbdrinks]

Lol she is never lack for words that’s for sure!

[@BuckeyeBlue3022]

How much for any of those bottles? 😁

[@slbdrinks]

I hear you brother lol!