We Answer The Most Asked Bourbon Questions

[@paulhendershot111]

Kurt & Trenton, another great show. I am about 3 years into my serious bourbon journey and it amazes me how much information I have acquired in that time. There is no other bourbon show that does a better job of presenting the facts and opinions in a common sense and entertaining way than SLB. Thanks for your efforts and keep up the great work!

[@slbdrinks]

Thank you!

[@badgerjeff6081]

You two are great. Keep spreading positivity. I think your channel really blossomed when the "young guy" started appearing on camera with the "old guy" 😀

[@slbdrinks]

Ha!! Appreciate you Jeff!

[@christianeshelman8195]

And it’s not about age, it’s that they both know what they’re talking about, and they’re honest with themselves.

[@jamessowards8329]

Speaking of neck pours and aging I'm a big believer. The bottle that really stands out in my mind is a bottle of angels envy I got early on in my bourbon journey. When I initially opened it I poured myself and a friend a little and wasn't at all impressed. I took it hope, put it on the shelf and forgot about it. After having the rye many months later, I decided to revisit and it was a night and day difference. So sweet and the port wine barrel finish really shined through.

[@knorton1003]

Another great informative show! Love the SLB Family we got going on here. Another question I see pretty regular from people just getting into Bourbon is regarding cork maintanence. my answer (your's may differ) is that it's not needed. Most of the distilleries are slowly switching over to synthetic corks anyways. With over 200 bottles in my collection, more then half are synthetic. in the past, I've only had 1 cork break and that's because the person who tried to open that bottle, just pulled it straight out. instead of twisting it our slowly in the end, it was no big deal as a corkscrew was able to salvage the rest of the cork stuck in the neck. Also this is why I always keep my old bottle toppers from empty bottles (so you have a spare cork). Also NEVER store your Bourbon on it's side, always upright. The proof of the Bourbon will destroy the corks and alter the taste. Just adding to the awesome conversation. Hope this helps! Cheers!!!!

[@sirgilbert357]

Great idea about saving old corks/bottle tops! I might start doing this for the ones I buy frequently.

[@matthewsalazar3575]

I would just like to say that I joined this channel because not only am I bourbon fan…but I am also an assistant manager at a liquor store in Pennsylvania and I wanted to be more informed about some of the product that we sell. This channel has helped me a ton since I joined I can’t even explain. These guys are not only knowledgeable…but the overall atmosphere of this channel makes it a joy to watch every time. You guys are doing a fantastic job and I wish you nothing but continued success.

[@anthonyellison4737]

Do you, or could you post bottles to the UK from your store?

[@pwrbomb1970]

Firm believer in the neck pour phenomenon. I also believe in leaving a bottle to sit after you have taken some out of it. It more often than not gets better and opens up.

[@BigDieselMan100]

I am outside of New Orleans, Louisiana and we have no state control in the state. We have 3 good chains in the area however the allocated is simply never on the shelf, so you go for the barrel picks. Over time the operators see you coming in regularly, they ask you what you are looking for vice bugging. The respond to vice you bugging them. The only allocated Wellers and Blandons is at the naval base. I really enjoy your videos and have used in building my collection, I am anything from Wild Turkey....... JD, Beam fan as well. Thank you both

[@EverydayDrinker]

The growth you have had not just this year but the last 3 months is crazy! I’m so happy for you guys and what this new year will bring you

[@slbdrinks]

Very humbling that’s for sure! Thanks dude!

[@CMBgreenbird]

Today I actually watched this video for the first time somehow missing it before. When you answer the question about Trenton explaining he is your son and this is just something that you like to do together. I have to say that's my favorite aspect of your entire channel. That the two of you as father and son have this shared passion that comes through in the videos and as a father myself makes me smile because you both always look genuinely happy and because I share this passion with my son as well.

[@VinegarAndSaltedFries]

Ardnamurchen is wonderful. I have 03.21: 02 Been eyeing a 07.21: 04 at my local shop. Nice to see some Scotch love. To be honest my favorite is Irish but it’s so hard to find new Irish Whiskey. As far as Bourbon it’s actually one of my lesser favorites but the options are so plentiful so I always appreciate the help navigating Bourbon/ryes. Your dynamic between the two of you and fun content has kept me coming back whenever I see a notification. In fact my entire family (all adults) have been tuning in as we always get so flooded with so many Bourbon options at my local store.

[@CMBgreenbird]

In relation to your does bourbon go bad question. I have a bottle of wild turkey rare breed that I bought back in 2011 on a tour of the distillery. In the gift shop they had this special thing where they could print you a label for your bottle that was customized in case you wanted to make it as a gift or something like that. Well it just so happened on that particular day after our tour when we were in the tasting-room I turned and saw that sure enough sitting in the corner having a glass himself was Jimmy Russell. I immediately, unable to help myself, walked over and said hello Mr. Russell it's an honor to meet you. Your Wild Turkey 101 is what made me realize my love for bourbon. He looked up at me and smiled and said "and I've personally approved every single drop that has passed your lips son. Have a drink with me. " As if he had nothing better to do, he kindly sat and sipped and talked with four of us for almost 20 minutes. After that we went out to the gift shop and I purchased a bottle of Rare Breed and had them make a custom label that just said Wild Turkey Rare Breed and left the middle of the label open. In the middle of the open space I had Mr. Russell sign it and date it. The bottle at the time came with a Rare Breed sleeve to keep it in and it has not seen actual sunlight since that day in early August 2011. The seal is not broken and the cork has never been removed. I have taken it out over the years to show people and tell them this story, but it has never been in the sunlight. It has also always been in a cabinet that has never been hotter than 75° and never colder than 50°. So my question is if you been able to get through my long-winded story, that I thought as a bourbon enthusiast you might enjoy.... What are the chances my bottle is close to exactly the same it was the day I took it from the distillery?

[@motohead077]

You should have sampled it, when new. A couple things that might help; Any bottle with a cork is not suitable for long-term storage, as they are not air tight. Only use bottles like that for show and as a decanter and pour them back in an airtight bottle (screw cap) when done. Unless you will be done with it in a yr or less & can live with the possibility of the whiskey going bad before you are finished.. If you have a picture of the bottle when new, compare the fill level to now. If it is noticeably lower, then there was definitely a lot of interaction between the whiskey & the air. This could have made it better, but since you never tried it when new, there is no way to know. It almost certainly would have changed taste from when new. Dry environments will cause the cork to fail sooner. When that happens (if nothing is done) the liquid will evaporate and degrade MUCH quicker. Have heard people talk about finding bottles in their basement, left there from the 80s, that are completely empty, yet still fully sealed with wrap, etc. & never opened. Those bottle(s) always had corks & all of it evaporated. To preserve the taste of new bottles for later tasting, I started doing the following this yr; Got a bunch of 4oz size glass bottles that were all individually pressure tested for are tightness. Some may leak, so try different caps.. Whenever I open a new whiskey bottle, immediately fill a 4oz bottle to top, so there is very minimal air. Then close it & store in a dark place & never open, unless needed. If it gets too warm inside, will store them in the fridge if needed. On the bottles record info like what it is; original whiskey, laser codes on bottle, date bottled & date the original bottle was opened & transferred to smaller bottle. Now you have a time capsule of whiskey. Can use those to compare to the original when it is near empty & opened several times and/or to compare to the current version of that whiskey, years later. Very useful for limited releases like store picks, ECBP batches, etc. Also, a lot of people say the same bottles have changed juice over a few years, like OF 1920. If I had a sample from a 2019 bottle, would be able to tell if they starting filling those bottles a lower quality juice & charged the same price.. Since your palate may change over 10-20 yrs, you can't just buy a new bottle, of say WT 101, & use your memory to compare it to WT 101 from 5, 10, 20 yrs ago. If you have a sample from 10yrs ago, you can compare side by side to see for yourself if the juice has changed.

[@CMBgreenbird]

@@motohead077 when I originally bought it from The distillery it was also placed inside of a can which it has been in,... in a temperature controlled cabinet ever since. The actual liquid still appears to be at the very same level. It was when I bought it and ever since I brought it home it has existed somewhere between 55° minimum and 75° Max. Total darkness. Still sealed as the day it was bought. I fully expected it to have changed by now but just hated to crack it and then never got around to it. I still intend to attempt to drink it, but we'll see how that goes.

[@motohead077]

@@CMBgreenbird Nice! Would expect that to be as well preserved as possible for being in original bottle. Better than on a store shelf for the same time, exposed to light & likely a warmer avg temp.. Cool thing is, you can compare it to the current release of Rare Breed.. Breaking Bourbon did an excellent experiment on whiskey storage over a 2 yr period... Another thing I heard, but never did (from Scotch drinkers), to preserve a whiskey longer in same bottle after opening; Do not agitate the bottle, even to pour out what you want to drink. Always keep it upright & still. To remove whiskey, do it like how distillers remove whiskey from a barrel to taste. Insert a hollow cylinder (think big straw) into bottle, cover the end & it will capture the liquid inside. When you re-close the bottle fill it with an inert gas like nitrogen, to minimize oxygen in the bottle. Personally, I think it's much easier just to transfer it in smaller bottles. Then you can drink from 1 of the small bottles over a 6-12 month period & never have to open the others.

[@CMBgreenbird]

@@motohead077 thanks! I appreciate all the info and when I finally crack it I'm going to use a lot of this info to deal with moving it around so I can keep it longer

[@CMBgreenbird]

In fact, I'm going to use this information to start saving samples of some of the better store pics I get for sampling get togethers.

[@bryanwalker1737]

Excellent show, as always. I had a whiskey where the first two pours tasted like round up mixed with Raid, cut with diesel. I literally poured the glasses out, and one I had mixed with a cinnamon whiskey. The bottle sat on my shelf for about a year, I went back to it and it was actually fairly good. So, I never judge a whiskey by the neck pour.

[@slbdrinks]

😂

[@FakingANerve]

Bryan, we want you to stick around for many more years, friend. If you're getting notes of Raid and Round-Up, I have some serious questions for you... 😄

[@bencpt2000]

Thank you both. Continue to learn tons from you both as I broaden my bourbon tasting palate. I appreciate how down to earth and friendly you both are.

[@slbdrinks]

Thank you!

[@joshcatt4485]

On the neck pour, i bought old grandad 114, opened it and drank some right away. I swore i wouldn't drink anymore again. After seeing you speak highly of it i decided to go back to it a few months later. Completely different and pleasant taste. I wouldn't say all my bottles have been that extreme, but that one certainly was! Good video. Thank you.

[@slbdrinks]

Great point here! Bottles can and will open up differently. Some better than others.

[@willbeez]

Hey I really like how you shoot your videos, no cuts and no spammy hellofresh plugs, please don't change.

[@slbdrinks]

😂 hello fresh. Check out our last video of 2022. We will be discussing our vision and plans for 2023. FYI, we aren’t contemplating hellofresh lol

[@Texas_Red_01]

Speaking of questions... :-) Here's something that I'm having trouble wrapping my head around: Adding water to spirits. Most of the whiskey-related youtube channels I've perused typically eschew adding water to spirits. They even recommend using refrigerated stones, rather than ice cubes, if you want to chill a pour. If they do add water, it may be only a single capful. Even then, they go on and on about how much it has changed the liquor. But don't the distilleries (or blenders, or whoever) typically use water to dilute their products in order to meet their target proof goals? So why does it make no difference to the product when Wild Turkey adds water in bulk, but it radically changes the spirit if the consumer adds a capful of water to a pour?

[@slbdrinks]

You are correct. Unless cask strength or barrel proof water is added to dilute to the desired proof. My opinion is do what you like. I found some whiskey tastes better to me over ice or with a little water while others do not. I always try neat first than experiment.

[@AJ-wo9bs]

As a Scotch malts drinker who also appreciates bourbons, and sometimes wanders into that direction, I especially appreciate Kurt's opinions because he likes Scotch too. As I am very inexperienced with bourbons, I feel more comfortable taking advice and opinions from a guy who also drinks and likes the stuff I usually drink. Cheers!

[@gtmustang09]

I came upon your videos approximately a month and since then I've been going back watching videos and lives. Love what you guys do...keep Rockin'!!!

[@TheReal_DeanD]

I've encountered the neck pour issue more with Scotch. I've had some bottles that tasted great and kept drinking them. After I told myself try something else I'd put that bottle away and come back weeks or months later and find it didn't taste the same. So now I've got an infinity bottle of just neck pours and my first couple of pours from a bottle I'll reserve judgment on.

[@slbdrinks]

That’s a great idea actually!

[@stephenbrewster2975]

To touch on the question "does whiskey go bad", my best friend was recently gifted a sealed decanter of Jim Beam. It was bottled in 1978, and was 8 years old when it was bottled. I was born in 1979, by buddy in 1978, and drinking whiskey older than we both are was an exciting experience. There was a little musky-ness, but still pretty darn good! I don't know how it was previously stored or where it was kept, but the whole nostalgia of the experience I will always remember, and it will always be a story that I will be excited to share! Cheers!

[@slbdrinks]

Some of my most memorable pours was from circa 1980’s. They don’t make it like that anymore.

[@jamesdibiase346]

I'm kind of new to burbon and enjoy watching you guys and learning a few things. Today I scored a bottle of Weller for $29.99 and a bottle of Blanton's for $69.99. 😁 I live in Orland Park Illinois, just outside Chicago.

[@slbdrinks]

Both great deals!

[@patrickrichmond1477]

I have just started my Bourbon Journey both of you have been very helpful .

[@JohnSmith-vt5ry]

Hi I am new subscriber and love your show. I am 56 years old and a newbie. I started pipe smoking a few years ago and it took time to learn how to “sip” the smoke to pick up on notes and flavors and I am enjoying it. Bread, Fruit, Raisins, Peppery, Smokey, etc. I want to be able to do the same with Boubon/Whiskey. Here are my questions. I have watched your videos for beginners but have a few questions. 1. Explain how you taste? Where is the bourbon in mouth, are you sipping air through it, front of tongue, back, everywhere? 2. I want to jump into sweet spicy molasses etc. So far I only seem to feel burn and alcohol overpowering any flavors. If lower proof is best for beginners should I train my palette with 70 proof whiskeyCognac first? 3. Does smoking cigars or pipes hinder tasting the notes in bourbon? 4. In my local store there are lots of tiny samples and I bought many of those to trial instead of huge bottles. Are these the same quality as large bottle for me to find the ones I like? They don’t have a neck? Do I simply pour it all and let it air for 15 minutes?

[@BobY52944]

Kurt & Trenton, I'm a recent subscriber and fellow Hoosier (Fortville). I found your channel about a month ago and I have been binge watching. Started my whiskey path during the coof. I keep a list of whiskeys that I would like to try (mostly bourbons). Your channel helps me to add new favors to the list. I keep about 3 bottles on rotation. Really enjoy the channel. Keep up the good work and the non-allocated reviews.

[@slbdrinks]

Thank you and welcome!

[@dpfrizz]

Totally agree... did a neck pour on a Heaven Hill BiB 7yr and said out loud "this is god awful!". Was told by a friend to let the bottle sit for a couples months and revisit...did just that and it was a good pour.

[@slbdrinks]

Great example!

[@Arkapigdiesel]

What an absolutely fantastic duo. I enjoy this show more so than any other of my subscribed to channels. Y'all's laid back, personable approach works so well.

[@burlymtnman]

I've been a bourbon fan for 30 years. My favorite is Blanton's before it became popular. Heavens door and Bullet 10 year. Do you enjoy a fine cigar with your bourbon. What kind of music do you listen to while drinking. I like the Allman Brothers and Van Morrison.

[@slbdrinks]

Great questions! I do not smoke cigars. Considering my age lol I usually have smooth jazz or older tunes playing in the basement.

[@michaelrodgers940]

Another great show guys, I recently picked up a Stagg 22A for 59 and found a Blantons for 62, hoping to find an EH Taylor Small Batch tomorrow for msrp 🤞

[@toddmeyer9246]

Weller FP is my pick from this line up. Haven’t seen a bottle of 12 in 2 years, but I recall loving it. SiB is a glorified bottle of SR. The one bottle I did get, was traded as quickly as possible with a secondary value of 600. 107 is my go to because I can find it, but the 114 proof is my favorite.

[@angrycorn6651]

Over on r/whiskey I posted about an experience I had. I bought a bottle of Heaven Hill Bottled in Bond and opened it and had a pour right when I got home. I really didn’t like it. It was heavy on the ethanol flavor so I dripped some water in it to balance it out a bit. But that just erased the ethanol flavor and left nothing in return in stead of what it usually does with most pours I have to drip water in. I thought maybe I just put too much water in. I finished my glass and went for another pour for another try at fixing it. This time I put ice in. Same result as with the water drips leaving it flat and flavorless. I left it alone for a month or two after that then I decided to give it another go. This time I had it neat with no ice or water and it was actually wonderful. Very strong almond and toffee notes with no ethanol whatsoever. I finished that bottle within that week I liked it so much. Funnily enough there were people who responded who said they had nearly the exact same experience with it. If you go search Heaven Hill BiB on r/whiskey you’ll find a few different posts with this experience as well. I’m guessing that the alcohol dissipated just enough in that bottle after it was opened and there was some room made and it’s indented flavor was revealed because of that. So I think that neck pours are a thing, but they’re not universal.

[@mesoed]

I'm in Indy (actually have roots in NW IN... my wife grew up in Valpo and we both went to school there) and I agree that even down the road here things are more expensive.

[@glorybound7599]

Good point on the transfer to smaller bottles with small quantities in large bottles. Alcohol evaporates rapidly, so the less air, the better, to retain the quality.

[@vincentr.6109]

I bought a bottle of Green Spot this past spring, didn't like it too much. After 6 or so months I'm really appreciating it. The neck pour is a bit overwhelming.

[@jeffmccarthy2150]

Green spot is a great choice. One of my favorite pours next would be Blantons.

[@tonybeckman1774]

great show, I've been into bourbon for maybe a year, and I have learned more from you two than anywhere else. TonyB

[@jho7783]

I have to say, I love you guys and whenever I want to try something new I search KZbin and more than likely you guys have a review or comment on it and I respect and value your opinions. Thank you guys so much!

[@slbdrinks]

Thank you!

[@frankthetunaman1413]

Great answers to many of our questions. Love the show, it's a don't miss for me. Your family dynamic is enviable.

[@DaveNorton-yi5ix]

I absolutely think the neck pour is a thing ... the most recent example was last week and my first bottle of Widow Jane 10 yr. The first pour was almost nasty, with a pronounced aftertaste that was cloying, like peanut butter that has gone bad. But now that I've gotten down into the bottle a little, it has completely changed and I'm no longer regretting the price I paid.

[@donmorton3954]

Another great and informative video. I like the idea of the infinity bottle and plan on starting one. My only question is about how much of each bourbon that is almost gone do you add to it at a time? 1 oz? 2 oz? Varies? You guys are the best!

[@slbdrinks]

I would say 2 oz or less. If I have more than 2 oz I will have a pour lol

[@donmorton3954]

@@slbdrinks thanks. I just started a bottle with 2 oz of Old Grand Dad 114 as the 1st one. I had 3 ounces left and drank the other 1. Lol

[@hotrod1224]

Kurt and Trenton, thanks for the tips, I am slowing building my bourbon collection in my home bar as well. Kurt, i never would have thought of transfering to a smaller bottle after a certain amount of time. thank you for that tip. i always enjoy your reviews and videos.

[@BB-sc1jv]

Neck pour is definitely a phenomenon. Best example is bottle of Widow Jane 10 year old I purchased. Had a definite funk on the finish. Really off putting. Gave a try a few weeks later and the funk was gone. I do realize that our palates may vary from day to day.

[@andrewboudreau5279]

Great stuff guys! Watching older videos gives me a good idea who you guys are. You treat this like a passion and not a job. I love that. It makes me want to keep tuning in and learning.

[@thetr00per30]

Yea I'm not down with the infinity bottle lol I keep thinking I'm drinking people's backwash lol

[@slbdrinks]

Ya I understand that lol

[@FakingANerve]

12:15 I absolutely agree, and it's because of oxidization, and we can test this out and show it to be true quite easily (and "we" can also convey this through run-on sentences, apparently...). Pour a neat 1 or 2 fingers after dinner, sip half of it and leave it. Try it the next day at lunch or dinner. It's ruined. Nowhere near the same. What's the difference between that leftover and the same juice in the bottle? The cork ain't there. When bottle's get low, not only are they majority air, they've had that air cleared out and refilled with each and every pour. My brother and I found an old bottle that was less than half full from our grandfather _years_ after it was opened after he passed away and it was undrinkable. Another bottle unopened from the same time? Just fine. Edit: Disregard. I see you covered it. I was trigger-happy on the pause button. Haha

[@johnhicks8626]

I love that you talk about good/bad palate days. Some days literally every bourbon I have tastes good. Some days, the complex ones just hit...wrong.

[@dougpearson3934]

Great video as usual. Quick question since we’re on the question/answer scene. What do you guys snack on, if anything, when drinking whiskey in a casual scenario?

[@slbdrinks]

Salty pretzel rods are a must lol! Other than that you can never go wrong with mixed nuts.

[@lhfire2572]

New subscriber and new to Bourbon. Just started about 6 months ago and love the channel and great information that has helped me along the way.

[@slbdrinks]

Welcome!

[@robertrackuzius3722]

I'm just wondering if the infinity bottle is the less than 1% saliva mashbill.

[@slbdrinks]

😂😂😂 best one yet!

[@tompino5266]

Best whiskey channel on the tube, BY FAR ! I've tried watching the others but none possess the charm and wits as this one. Keep it coming SLB drinks !

[@slbdrinks]

Much appreciated!

[@The-Whiskey-Journey]

This was a really good and informative video. Knowing your local store owners and becoming a truly good customer is very important. Thank you for all you do.

[@willetr3744]

@SLB Drinks Thank you for having this channel. I'm relatively new to the world of bourbon and scotch. I have been exploring with several different brands and I'm developing a list of favorites. Recently, I tried Johnny Walker Black (this is all I can remember of the label). To me, this tasted like licking a charcoal briquette; horrible! Is this the "peat" flavor that people talk about? If so, i'd probably avoid it in the future. Thanks for the help!

[@slbdrinks]

Yes, and sorry to say JWB isn’t that great to begin with. I always recommend Glenmorangie 10 yr for a scotch starter. No peat, sweet, and light on the palate. Not expensive either.

[@willetr3744]

@@slbdrinks Thanks for the reply! As far as scotch goes, I've tried The Glenlivet 12, The Macallan 12 and Glenfiddich (didnt like this one). I'm confident I favor bourbons, so I'm exploring these at the moment!

[@marshall5021]

Part 2 please lol. I love the father-son bond that is on this channel. (Sorry for so many in one comment) Do you do an Infinity bourbon bottle and a Infinity Scotch bottle or does it all get blended together? What's Alc % an proof meanm What's the difference an how do they get the different ranges in number? Do you pregame or prep. Before your videos (have a few drinks before shooting a video so the burn isn't so harsh)

[@slbdrinks]

Great questions! I only do a bourbon infinity bottle and do not add any scotch. We rarely do a scotch tasting video so generally no left over scotch. ABV and proof are basically one in the same but just different numbers. ABV stands for alcohol by volume so basically if a bottle is 45 ABV the bottle is 45% alcohol. Proof is basically calculated as double the ABV. Here in the states proof point is mostly referenced but in Europe and abroad they generally only state the ABV number.

[@tonysibilla3628]

PA is really tough to find anything and while prices are somewhat set, the costs can be more than most midwestern states. I'd pay more though to be away from the State run system. I can see so many more available bourbons in NJ and at decent prices.

[@DoctorJay619]

Hey guys greetings from the great state of Texas. I recently came across your channel, and y'all have been a welcome addition as I begin my whiskey journey. Congratulations on the awesome growth of your channel and looking forward to more great content in 2023!

[@jasonballenger2505]

Good questions and good answers. I was wondering about that not sipping water cleansing in between sips. Great Tip on transferring the bottom of the bottle to a smaller bottle. 👌

[@danielupchurch6024]

Here is the thing with a neck pour, when u pour it the liquid from the top goes to the back of the bottle. U would essentially have to use a straw and drink straight from the neck of the bottle. I don't think it has anything to do with the neck of the bottle and more to do with it just being a freshly opened bottle that needs to breathe like u stated, not mattering at all from which part of the bottle it comes from. Take a bottle of water and drop in something that floats, then pour that water into a glass and watch where that object goes as u start to tip the bottle and pour.

[@fminlincoln6455]

I really like your takes. I’m new to bourbon and starting a collection.I started with Old Forester 100 and really liked it. Then Wild Turkey 101,Buffalo Trace ,Elijah Craig small,Knob Creek 9 yr small,Knob Creek rye, 4 roses single barrel, and Old Tub( on sale 9.99). The Turkey 101 and Old Forester are my favorites so far. What do you suggest for my next bottle? Also I have a old cork from a Pendleton Canadian whiskey can I use that on top of the Old Forester 100 ( screw top) or will that be bad for the Old Forester? Thanks in advance for answering my questions.

[@crivitzguy5017]

Okay, so a few questions (possibly dumb ones) as a follow-up: I don't typically drink bourbon with a meal but when I do, is there a theory to one type if bourbon being better with a ribeye vs salmon, like with wine? Can a particular bourbon's flavor be enhanced (not sure if that's the right word) by the type of food it's paired with? Do I understand you correctly that I should open a new bottle of bourbon and leave it uncovered for a period of time before consuming? Lastly...and its gonna sound stupid, but does it help any to shake a bottle of bourbon up first before a pour? Guys, I really appreciate you both for your knowledge, your eagerness to help newbies like me and for being so entertaining as you do so. I look forward to every one of your videos! Be well!

[@slbdrinks]

Never a bad question. Bourbon and food pairing is a subject that is definitely gaining ground. Unfortunately, I am not that well informed though at this point unfortunately. I wouldn’t advise leaving a bottle open for an extended period of time. Oxygen will get in your bottle every time the cork is popped thus lending to the process of your whiskey opening up. Wouldn’t hurt at all to jostle the bottle around a bit before pouring. Same as spinning in the glass as far as I am concerned. Thanks for joining us on the channel!

[@Glock2201]

i do think that the first pour can have a different taste. It might not be bad but maybe just not as good. I do not think that whiskey will go bad. I thought I had a bourbon made by a local distillery that might have but looking back I bought the bottle in early July and drank it throughout the rest of July and August and had a little bit left that I tried in January and I think it was a bourbon that tasted better during warmer weather.

[@cryptokenage.crypto4987]

I've enjoyed bourbon for years but only recently discovered this community. I've started my infinity bottle, I love that idea. I'm also northwest Indiana. Great video.

[@wyopatriot3696]

I am new to your channel and relatively new to a variety of bourbon. I have several friends who are more fluent in the bourbon/whiskey world and are frequently making recommendations. I find some of their recommendations to be quite pleasant and others don’t seem to fit my pallet. Do you and Trent always agree on profiles and where they fit on your top 10 or is it fair to say everyone’s pallet is different and what is on the top of my list might not be at the top of someone else’s. Your shows have been very informative. I really appreciate everything you and Trent are doing.

[@slbdrinks]

We agree on quite a few but def disagree on some as well. Everyone is different so follow your own path. Nothing wrong with that!

[@scottlippitt1727]

Great show. Just starting my journey and have picked up several bottles you have recommended. My question is... can you develop a relationship with a larger store like Total Wine, Bevy's, Lucas etc that has a decent amount of employees and the owner isn't present?

[@longsnapper5381]

Very pleasant way to spend some time. The best bourbon is the one you share with friends. Laughter improves the taste of anything.I do have a question. I'm a big fan of using a "dasher" with my bourbons. I feel that just 2-3 drops of our well water from the dasher really opens up the flavor spectrum. Do you have any experience with the dasher?

[@jonmoore1023]

Another great video, from two great guys. Very knowledgeable! Thanks

[@kbsing2012]

I am a fairly new subscriber and love you guys Bourbon chat. I am on my 10 years + journey. Owns about 25+ bottles. I bet I have bottles that has been open several years, maybe even more than 5 years. Are they done/bad now? I am a wine drinker too and there is distinct change when it has gone bad. I haven’t detected the same with Bourbon. Thanks for your opinion. Kurt

[@DanielDrociuk]

Hi folks! Love the shows and thanks for the education! Wanted to ask about a comment made in this show. I live in South Carolina and I thought I heard mention by Trent that SC was a State Control State. From my understanding, seventeen states employ an Alcoholic Beverage Control model, which means the sale of distilled liquor is controlled by state government, and liquor stores often sell only spirits (or sometimes spirits and wine, but not beer). South Carolina's ABC Act was repealed in the late 90s. So I don’t believe we classify.

[@slbdrinks]

You are right and thanks for the correction. Trent meant to say North Carolina.

[@boknows3014]

Glad you guys tried Uncle Nearest--They are coming out with a third Bourbon

[@geewyllikers]

So, I don't see anyone talk about this. Palate saturation, nose technic, mouth and air technic for tasting. The impact of breathing through your mouth and nose and the shape of your mouth as you breath makes an big difference of the nose AND palate. I will open my mouth with the product in my mouth and sip a little air past the product and slowly exhale through both nose and mouth or one or the other. After I take the product in I will nom nom nom with my mouth (silently of course) while slowly exhaling through the nose. I can find a deeper look into the roots of the product by manipulating the evaporators routes through my mouth and nose. The things I do with my tongue while the product is in my mouth and then after I take it in have a great impact on the flavors I can extract. Another thing I have noticed I do is after I take the product in I will "pump" my mouth without introducing new air and slowly exhale through my nose while doin that. This may seem petty but I think it deserves discussion. Another well done video fellas. The infinity bottle - YES! gotta do a blend with your favorite tasters. I record what the blend is made up of. ;)

[@nickp5511]

Great job! Answered my question from a comment and you almost always respond which has to be time consuming! Really enjoy your channel and I’m picking up a lot of useful info. Keep them coming! Favorite channel by far!

[@slbdrinks]

Thanks for hanging out with us!

[@davevogelsang6791]

I have a 2006 bottle of Blanton’s with 2 pours gone. I have kept it in the pouch. Hopefully, it is still worth drinking?

[@kirklandeche937]

I enjoy cleansing my pallet with a little sip of sweet iced tea with lemon. I'll give it a few seconds, and then go for the bourbon. Cold lemonade works well also. Something about the lemon always welcomes the next sip of bourbon. Some people don't share my opinion but, they are free to drink their bourbon however they wish!

[@slbdrinks]

I am going to give that a try!

[@biggshoes]

been watching for months now. Thanks guys. always a good show

[@randocitizen6114]

Been binge watching a lot of y’all’s episodes. Went to my first allocation sale today and scored a bottle of Eagle Rare and McKenna 10 year

[@slbdrinks]

Congratulations!

[@loganbutler1016]

I liked hearing about your infinity bottles. Great idea! Here's a question - have you ever mixed bourbons purposefully? I know this may sound sacrosanct, but I have two bourbons I regularly mix equally because to me they each have a few flaws, but together they make something just really great (to my palate). Eagle Rare to me is just a bit thin but I love the floral notes I get in it while in Old Forester 1920 I love the smokiness but I get a bit of an iodine bitterness and a tad of cherry cough syrup. Together (to me) it's like they cancel out each other's pitfalls and enhance each other's good qualities. For me, it makes a really enjoyable sip. Does this sound crazy?

[@slbdrinks]

Not at all. I have only done it a little bit but home blending is somewhat popular.

[@jayhoots7478]

The infinity blend is definitely tasty! I forgot to ask, is there scotch in there as well? Or do you keep all the bourbon and scotch in separate Infiniti blends?

[@slbdrinks]

Only bourbon in the infinity bottles. No rye either. Glad you like it!

[@BenGates101]

Thanks for the beginners questions and answers. Everyone likes to learn

[@gonzo3201]

By far. By far! My favorite whiskey KZbin channel!!

[@slbdrinks]

Thanks so much!

[@michaelsarna2008]

Very informative. Love the shows… Living in Nashville I’m right in the heart of the Bourbon- Whiskey area. Jack Danials is about an hour south of me.. many of the bigger Kentucky producers are about 2 hours north and there are even a few boutique producers very close by.

[@KrazyKajun602]

I'm new, I am going to ask. What specifically is the difference between a $50 bottle of bourbon and $500 one if the aging is approx the same? Also you mention about the first portion of the bottle to the neck having a different taste than below that. What if you poured the bottle into a decanter, this way the top portion of the bottle is now at the bottom in the decanter?

[@slbdrinks]

All questions are good questions. The difference if aging is the same will probably be minimal. Obviously one distillery might be better on all aspects than another distillery. The mash bill or recipe could be different. Neck pour is actually referring to when the cork is first popped. Once opened oxygen enters the bottle and starts the oxidizing process or, opening up. If the bottle is just opened and immediately poured into a decanter that bourbon still hasn’t been exposed to oxygen for long. So, when you here neck pour it’s not a reference to the top or bottom of the bottle it’s referring to the bottle just being opened. Bourbon tends to be a bit spicy and sharp at first open.

[@xmikewallace17]

Being into whiskey. The most common question I get asked “do you wet the cork on the bottle”. For me, I always say no because 99% of corks now are synthetic. Now if Ik it’s a real cork, then yes. However, I would never store it on its side or leave it on its side for a long time.

[@slbdrinks]

I really don’t think about wetting the cork but our bottles do get moved around quite a bit.

[@TrentSellersCLT]

Do you keep track of your inventory? If so you keep track of pricing and tasting notes?

[@slbdrinks]

Unfortunately not at the moment. That would be a monumental task but a great idea!

[@ddreese]

I'm not into bourbon or scotch, but I'm just starting getting into Irish and flirting with Welsh. I'm educating myself watching your videos, as well as those of some Scotch and Irish enthusiasts. So, thank you both! As I'm down here in Arizona, some bottles seem to be unobtanium, and I've heard you mention there are some that way up in Indiana as well. Do you have a list of bottles you are hunting that maybe I could keep my eye out for down here? I'd be glad to help you out.

[@slbdrinks]

Thank you Don that is very kind. For me it’s usually scotch. If you happen to see anything Longrow or Arran 18 yr would be great.

[@michaelrobertson8791]

Great show enjoyed the questions and answers! Put me in for the bottle of mixed bourbons! Mike from Texas! Purchased my first bottle of Buffalo Trace! Great pour love it! Hard to fine! My favorite’s are Wild Turkey 101 and Four Roses Small Batch! Have a great day YALL!

[@slbdrinks]

Thank you!

[@paulhughes3961]

I live in Albany GA and your prices are about the same as mine are in Georgia. When you say open up a bottle and let it sit for a month or so and then try it, are you saying to leave it open or just for a short time then try it in a month or so? Also how long will Bourbon last before it's no good?

[@slbdrinks]

Sorry for the confusion. Once you have popped the cork oxygen enters the bottle so no need to let it sit open.

[@fredmartin8965]

I’ve been watching you guys for a couple months now. I really enjoy your videos and all the information. Most of all I’m glad I found out about Rare Breed ! Lots of great bourbons/whiskeys available but this one is perfect for me. So thanks! Keep it up. Great show. Also I live in Texas and I’m paying $60 for Rare Breed. Is that acceptable?

[@slbdrinks]

Unfortunately ours went from 38.00 to 54.00 😳

[@lonniesharp9109]

I've watched a few of these videos now, and I've heard Trenton scoff at scotch more than once. I'm assuming he doesn't like peat, so get a bottle of Aberlour 16yr, and he'll never say he doesn't like scotch again. It's a speyside scotch, and it's hands down the smoothest thing to come out of Scotland since Sean Connery. That said: As far as the neck pour thing goes, honestly, it has much more to do with the fact that your palate isn't acclimated to the scotch yet. Whiskey doesn't oxidize like wine. It has much less tannins and much more alcohol. While it's true that after a long period of time, being exposed to air, the oxidation will change the flavor profile of the whiskey, letting it sit for 20 minutes will do absolutely nothing to it, and the whiskey in the neck is exactly the same as the whiskey in the punt.

[@slbdrinks]

Trent def does not like peat but he also is not fond of the malty notes as well.

[@lonniesharp9109]

@@slbdrinks I've been pouring Aberlour for scotch naysayers for over 10 years now, and I haven't missed a concession yet. 🕺

[@Bob_Boudreau]

Thank you guys. I'm fairly new to Bourbon drinking and have learned so much from you two. Keep up the good work.

[@jeffmccarthy2150]

Totally agree with this statement. Love your show

[@applecyderisawsome]

You guys do a nice job of being personal and knowledgeable in your videos. Would love to see you guys review Whisky Acres Rye. Cheers

[@Moves_Nation]

I love your response to the question about does bourbon go bad. I get asked this pretty frequently by people that are new to the Bourbon community. It’s funny because I have an old bottle of my grandpa’s Jim Beam from about 10 years ago. Bottle is about half filled and I can surely say that one has gone bad lol. Rebottling into a smaller container definitely helps.

[@richardkelley2474]

Great Show, Great Info. I have a bottle of PVW-15 unopened that I got a couple of years ago, that I am saving for a special occasion. Is there a specific way I should store it?

[@slbdrinks]

In a cool area away from any direct sunlight. Cool would be in your house with a controlled temp and not like in the garage with big temp swings.

[@slbdrinks]

Hope you enjoy it when that time comes!

[@foreseenjc]

I just started watching about a week ago. I’m really liking your channel! Plenty of great content. Bee liquors is my go to. They usually have or can get what you’re looking for.

[@slbdrinks]

Great store with a great owner who takes care of his customers.

[@stephenjohsz6251]

It's funny how you mentioned your barrel pick not tasting the same as when you selected it. I had the same reaction to a Four Roses pick our whiskey group did when I first opened the bottle. I thought we made a mistake until the bottle opened up and the flavors meshed with how I remember the pick.

[@glorybound7599]

Serving in the Army in Germany 🇩🇪 in the late 1970’s, I bought and brought back a bottle of Whiskey that was from the Hitler era. I decided to save it for a special occasion and share it with my father. In the mid 1980’s we opened the bottle and one drink and I was done. That was the nastiest I’ve ever tasted, fortunately I didn’t pay much for it.

[@slbdrinks]

Wow great story with a bad ending. Appreciate your service sir!

[@edwardsimon2827]

Don't know if this has been answered already. Do you always sip your bourbon "neat"? Or do you add a splash of water to supposedly open it up?

[@slbdrinks]

I at least try everything neat. At times I do pour over ice. If I am drinking scotch at times I will add a few drops of water. My recommendation is find the way you like and stick with it. No wrong answers.

[@billeverett4090]

I’d have to go back to the liquor store to find the brand but on the neck pour phenomenon, I had a bottle of essentially scotch, but it had been moved out of Scotland to I think Portugal. It was similar to Balvenie but was a lot hotter when I first tried it so I wasn’t a big fan. Some friends help drink it down a bit over time and I went back to it when it was probably 6 months old and about half gone. Unbelievable difference. I’m not a huge scotch drinker but it was probably the best I’ve ever had (including vs Dalmore King Alexander). Extremely smooth and amazing flavors

[@slbdrinks]

Perfect example!

[@michaellambright7968]

Ardnamurchan is such a great new distillery. The Cask Strength 02.22 was my favorite bottle this year, even above the Bunnahabhain Cask Strength 2022. Two incredible scotches that I would recommend to anyone.

[@joelharper1467]

Great and informative show as always! I would love to see a blind taste test with wheaten bourbon’s maybe a larceny, markers mark, Weller blind taste test. Love the show thank you for awesome content

[@ACask-jl4tf]

great video. I would love to see a video on viscosity. I hear you always walk about mouth feel and viscosity. Wondering which ones I should be looking out for

[@slbdrinks]

Great idea for a show! Viscosity is how creamy or thin the liquid feels in one’s mouth.

[@javierlandrian4668]

Kurt and Trenton, thank you for everything you do! I enjoy watching all of your videos! I was wondering if you guys would do a Kentucky owl tasting soon? I’ve tried a couple lately and have been thoroughly enjoying them.

[@slbdrinks]

To be honest the last one I bought was the St Pats edition and I wasn’t a big fan. I do like the rye whiskeys though. Don’t take my opinion though if you enjoy it that’s all that matters!

[@terrygonyon4490]

Tax rates play a HUGE role in Pricing. Indiana is a lot cheaper on a lot of alcohols where as states like Michigan work on a triple tax system. The price on a 5th in Michigan is the same as the larger 1.75L bottles. Michgan also has a limit on Proof. Cant get Everclear 195 in Michigan only 150 proof.

[@robertuhe413]

Thanks for the Q&A… good stuff.. I would have asked, how often / how much do you drink bourbon?

[@slbdrinks]

4-5 days a week but only in small portions. Would rather it be 2-3 but with the show that’s impossible. That’s why i maintain small amounts. Usually 2 oz at the very most 4 oz in one day.