I was walking through CVS yesterday to grab a prescription for my wife and I just had to walk down through the liquor aisle. There wasn’t a huge selection, but the Blade and Bow bourbon caught my eye. I have seen some recent Facebook posts about people collecting the keys, so I stopped and actually looked to see what number key was around the neck of the bottle (4 for those of you who are interested).

It got me thinking: What do I actually know about Blade and Bow Bourbon? I have had it a few times in the past, but I really don’t know much about its story, it’s history, and it’s taste profile.

So this post is a deep dive into Blade and Bow. It’s going to sound more like a book report, but I spent a good bit of time researching the bourbon and I want to share my findings with you.

Overview of Blade and Bow Bourbon

Blade and Bow Bourbon is a brand of Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey known for its craftsmanship and attention to detail. It is produced by Diageo, a global alcoholic beverages company. The brand takes its name from two important tools in the bourbon-making process: the blade, which is used to cut the “angel’s share” of whiskey that evaporates during aging, and the bow, which is a symbol of the master distiller’s art.

I honestly had no idea either of these two things were a part of the bourbon making process, so I learned something here.

Blade and Bow Bourbon is crafted using a blend of whiskeys sourced from some of the oldest and most iconic distilleries in Kentucky. These distilleries have a rich history and contribute to the unique character of the bourbon. The blend is carefully curated to ensure a balanced and flavorful profile.

I originally drank a pour of this because I was told it was the poor man’s Pappy Van Winkle. I’m not sure I 100% believe this, but it did get me to give it a try.

One notable aspect of Blade and Bow Bourbon is its aging process. The brand incorporates a solera aging method, which involves blending older and younger whiskeys together over time. This technique helps to create a consistent flavor profile and adds depth and complexity to the bourbon.

In addition to its flagship bourbon, Blade and Bow offers limited-edition releases and special expressions, which are highly sought after by whiskey enthusiasts and collectors. These releases often showcase unique cask finishes or special blends, further highlighting the brand’s commitment to craftsmanship and innovation

Overall, Blade and Bow Bourbon is recognized for its dedication to tradition, quality, and the art of bourbon making. It has gained a following among bourbon connoisseurs and continues to be appreciated for its exceptional taste and distinctive character.

What Does Blade and Bow Bourbon Taste Like?

The flavor profile of Blade and Bow Bourbon typically includes notes of caramel, vanilla, oak, and spices. It is often described as smooth and approachable, with a rich and well-rounded taste. The bourbon is commonly enjoyed neat or on the rocks, allowing the flavors to be fully appreciated. While individual palates may vary, here is a general description of the taste of Blade and Bow Bourbon:

1. Sweetness: Blade and Bow offers a prominent sweetness on the palate, with flavors of caramel and vanilla being commonly noted. These sweet undertones provide a smooth and enjoyable foundation for the bourbon.
2. Woodiness: The bourbon exhibits a noticeable presence of oak flavors. As Blade and Bow Bourbon is aged, it absorbs the flavors of the charred oak barrels, resulting in a pleasant woody character. This imparts depth and complexity to the overall taste profile.
3. Spices: Blade and Bow Bourbon often displays a subtle spiciness, with hints of cinnamon, nutmeg, or pepper. These spicy notes add a touch of warmth and vibrancy to the bourbon’s flavor profile, enhancing its overall complexity.
4. Balance: One of the defining characteristics of Blade and Bow is its balance. The various flavors of sweetness, woodiness, and spices harmonize well, creating a well-rounded and cohesive taste experience. The balance allows the different elements to complement one another, resulting in a smooth and enjoyable sipping experience.

It’s important to note that taste experiences are subjective and can vary based on an individual’s palate and personal preferences. The best way to truly understand the flavor profile of Blade and Bow Bourbon is to sample it firsthand and explore its unique characteristics.

Duh – I’ll always tell you to try something firsthand. There is no better judge of bourbon than your own palate.

What Are With The Keys And Blade And Bow Bourbon?

I know that the Blanton’s bottles have the horses, but have you ever wondered why Blade and Bow have the keys around the neck of the bottle? I never really paid attention until I saw some people actually collecting and searching for certain keys.

The keys associated with Blade and Bow Bourbon are an integral part of the brand’s identity and serve as a symbol of its heritage and craftsmanship. The keys are inspired by the five keys that once hung at the Stitzel-Weller Distillery in Kentucky, which was renowned for producing bourbon for several decades.

Each key represents a significant milestone or aspect of the bourbon-making process. These milestones include the grains, yeast, fermentation, distillation, and aging. They are also said to represent the five steps of crafting bourbon: grains, yeast, fermentation, distillation, and maturation.

The keys are featured prominently on the Blade and Bow Bourbon label and packaging, adding a distinct visual element to the brand’s presentation. The design of the keys is often intricate and ornate, emphasizing the attention to detail and craftsmanship associated with the bourbon itself.

Talk about marketing genius. As a marketing professor, I’m impressed.

In addition to their symbolic significance, the keys have a practical purpose. Each bottle of Blade and Bow Bourbon contains a small key embedded within the label. These keys are collectible and can be used to unlock access to exclusive events and experiences, such as tours of the Stitzel-Weller Distillery or special tastings.

Holy crap. I had no idea this was even a thing. Why has no one ever told me this.

The inclusion of the keys adds an element of mystery and intrigue to Blade and Bow Bourbon, further enhancing its appeal among whiskey enthusiasts and collectors. It serves as a reminder of the brand’s rich heritage and its commitment to the traditions of bourbon-making.

What Bourbons Are Similar To Blade and Bow Bourbon?

If you are looking for bourbons that share similar characteristics in terms of flavor profile, craftsmanship, and overall quality, here are a few bourbons that you might find comparable:

1. Old Forester: Old Forester is a well-regarded bourbon brand with a rich history dating back to 1870. Like Blade and Bow, Old Forester pays homage to traditional bourbon-making methods and offers a range of expressions known for their smoothness, balance, and complexity.
2. Four Roses: Four Roses is another bourbon brand that is highly regarded for its craftsmanship and attention to detail. They produce a variety of bourbons with distinct recipes and different mash bills, allowing for a diverse range of flavors. Four Roses bourbons are often praised for their smoothness and floral, fruity notes.
3. Woodford Reserve: Woodford Reserve is known for its premium quality and commitment to handcrafted bourbon. It offers a range of expressions, including small-batch and limited-edition releases. Woodford Reserve bourbons are characterized by their rich, full-bodied flavor profile, with notes of caramel, vanilla, and toasted oak.
4. Angel’s Envy: Angel’s Envy is a bourbon brand that embraces innovation while maintaining a deep respect for traditional bourbon-making techniques. They finish their bourbons in port wine casks, resulting in a unique flavor profile with notes of dark fruits, spices, and oak. Angel’s Envy is often praised for its smoothness and complexity.
5. Maker’s Mark: Maker’s Mark is an iconic bourbon brand known for its distinctive red wax-sealed bottles. It offers a mellow and approachable flavor profile with notes of caramel, vanilla, and hints of baking spices. Maker’s Mark is well-regarded for its consistency and craftsmanship.

These are just a few examples of bourbons that share similarities with Blade and Bow in terms of craftsmanship and flavor profile. Exploring these brands can provide you with a range of options to further enjoy and appreciate the world of bourbon.

Who Would Enjoy Blade and Bow Bourbon?

Blade and Bow Bourbon appeals to a wide range of whiskey enthusiasts who appreciate the craftsmanship, quality, and rich flavor profile of the brand. Here are some groups of people who might be drawn to Blade and Bow Bourbon:

1. Bourbon Connoisseurs: Blade and Bow Bourbon’s attention to detail, traditional bourbon-making methods, and distinctive flavor profile make it a compelling choice for seasoned bourbon connoisseurs. Those who have developed a refined palate and appreciate the complexities and nuances of fine bourbon often gravitate towards brands like Blade and Bow.
2. Whiskey Collectors: Blade and Bow Bourbon’s limited-edition releases, collectible keys, and ties to the historic Stitzel-Weller Distillery make it appealing to whiskey collectors. The brand’s exclusivity and unique packaging elements make it a sought-after addition to their collections.
3. Bourbon Enthusiasts: Individuals who have a passion for bourbon and enjoy exploring different brands and expressions may find Blade and Bow Bourbon to be an exciting choice. Its smooth and well-rounded flavor profile, along with its connection to Kentucky’s bourbon heritage, can pique the interest of those eager to try new and distinctive bourbons.
4. Those Seeking Premium and Special Occasion Bourbons: Blade and Bow Bourbon’s craftsmanship, premium quality, and limited releases make it an excellent choice for special occasions or celebratory moments. People who appreciate savoring a high-quality bourbon or who want to mark significant milestones might be drawn to Blade and Bow as a special treat.
5. History and Heritage Enthusiasts: Blade and Bow Bourbon’s association with the Stitzel-Weller Distillery and its homage to traditional bourbon-making methods can attract those who value history and heritage. The brand’s storytelling and connection to the past can resonate with individuals who enjoy learning about the origins and cultural significance of spirits.

It’s worth noting that while Blade and Bow Bourbon has a dedicated following, it can also be enjoyed by anyone who appreciates a well-crafted bourbon with a smooth and flavorful profile. Ultimately, anyone of legal drinking age who enjoys savoring a quality bourbon can find pleasure in experiencing Blade and Bow.

Conclusion

Blade and Bow Bourbon stands as a testament to the artistry and dedication of its creators. With a legacy rooted in tradition, a commitment to craftsmanship, and a remarkable flavor profile, this brand has earned its place among the finest bourbons in the world. Whether enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or in crafted cocktails, Blade and Bow Bourbon is a testament to the enduring appeal of this beloved spirit.

If you haven’t read the blog, you should know that I have become a huge Old Forester fan over the last year. It all started with a bottle that was purchased to get a big bottle of Eagle Rare and it was solidified when I attended the Old Forester tasting at FoxGardin Ale House.

So a little more about Old Forester 86, 100, and the general Brown-Forman distillery. And then I’ll share my preference between the 86 and the 100 proof variations.

Old Forester Basics

Old Forester is a well-known American bourbon whiskey brand that has been in operation since 1870. It is produced by the Brown-Forman Corporation and is named after Dr. William Forrester, a physician who prescribed whiskey as a medicinal treatment.

Old Forester offers a range of bourbon whiskeys, including the Old Forester 86 Proof and the Old Forester 100 Proof. The key difference between these two expressions lies in their alcohol content, which affects their flavor profiles and overall characteristics.

Old Forester 86 Proof

I currently have a 1.75L bottle of this on my counter. I purchased it from Kroger during their beloved 25% off sale. I really wanted Old Forster 100 proof, but I settled on this during the sale because I couldn’t find any large bottles of the 100 on the shelf.

This bourbon is bottled at 43% alcohol by volume (ABV). It is a slightly lower proof whiskey, which means it has a lower alcohol content compared to the 100 Proof version. Old Forester 86 Proof is known for its smooth and approachable flavor profile. It has notes of caramel, vanilla, and oak, with a relatively mellow and balanced taste. The lower alcohol content allows the flavors to shine without overwhelming the palate.

Old Forester 100 Proof

This might giveaway my choice, but Old Forester 100 is my go-to bourbon. I think it’s a cinnamon bomb and it has a lot of oak to back that up. It’s just plain yummy in my book.

This bourbon is bottled at 50% ABV. It is a higher proof whiskey, which means it has a higher alcohol content compared to the 86 Proof version. Old Forester 100 Proof delivers a bolder and more intense flavor experience. It tends to have a stronger presence of spices, including cinnamon and pepper, along with a richer oak character. The higher alcohol content contributes to a warmer and more robust mouthfeel.

Which is Better – Old Forester 86 Vs 100?

If you were paying attention, you know my pick would be the 100 proof. But I’m not everyone.

Both the Old Forester 86 Proof and 100 Proof bourbons are made using a similar mash bill, which consists of a high proportion of corn, along with rye and malted barley. They are aged in new, charred oak barrels, which imparts additional flavors and complexity to the whiskeys.

The choice between the Old Forester 86 Proof and 100 Proof ultimately comes down to personal preference. If you prefer a smoother and more approachable bourbon with milder flavors, the 86 Proof might be the better option. On the other hand, if you enjoy a stronger and more robust whiskey with spicier notes, the 100 Proof version would be the way to go.

I choose the 100 proof because I like to drink my bourbon on the rocks. And the higher proof essentially comes down when the ice starts to melt. So I guess it’s really a toss up. If you are drinking without ice, go for the 86. If you are on the rocks, go for the 100. And if you want to be frisky, drink the 100 straight.

Ultimately, both expressions offer quality bourbons that showcase the Old Forester distillery’s craftsmanship and heritage. So you can’t lose.

Cheers!

My addiction started with a random Facebook message.

Now I’m addicted.

I was up in Indianapolis to judge Business Professionals of America event and I was done a little early. I called my wife and said:

I think I’m going to grab a bite to eat and possibly grab a drink.

Chris

She responded:

I hope you enjoy Wiseguy Lounge you jackass.

Chris’ Wife

In my previous post, I mentioned my wife loved our stop down at Wiseguy Lounge in downtown Indy. And she was a little upset I was going without her.

I never told her I was going, but she knew. She knew I really liked that place, so she knew I was headed back.

But I pushed on and made a stop. It was all for the better good of the blog. And I grabbed her some chocolate on the way back, so all is good on this front.

My Trip to Wiseguy Indy

Once again, Wiseguy Lounge in Indianapolis knocked it out of the park.

I stopped for a piece of pizza from Goodfellas and then I had a few 1 ounce pours from the lounge. And once again, I was quiet impressed.

The pizza wasn’t super outstanding, but the hot sauce is still amazing.

But you aren’t here for the food. Let’s talk bourbon.

I actually had three different samples while I was there:

1. Elijah Craig Mic Drop
2. Elijah Craig Arson
3. Erza Brooks Killer Peacock

My Thoughts

Once again – Very happy with my visit.

The Elijah Craig Mic Drop was solid on flavor, but it wasn’t the best bourbon I’ve ever had. And that’s ok. You won’t love everything you have and it’s ok not to love a bourbon.

This one was in that ballpark. It was a little light on flavor and more subtle than their other picks.

It was really good with my pizza, but it didn’t hold its own in the glass.

After I finished that pour, I went on the recommendation of the bartender and tried the Elijah Craig Arson Pick. And damn that was on fire. It was high test and it held true to its name. As much as I love high test, a 136.4 proof bourbon was higher than my typical ceiling. I drank it neat, but I needed some water or some ice. Something to take that high proof down about 10 points. This was filled with flavor, but my mouth was crushed by the first few sips. I loved it and then I could taste it about an hour later.

I was about to leave, but I got convinced to try one more barrel select pour. And it ended up being my favorite of the day.

Don’t get me wrong, flavor wise, I think the Arson pick had the most flavor. And it pretty much wrecked my palate. It’s actually one of the reasons I didn’t try it the first time I went to the lounge.

But the Killer Peacock stole my heart. I don’t know how a peacock can do that, but it did.

I had never had an Erza Brooks before and I was interested to see how it tasted. And I was impressed. It had some amazing flavors and I couldn’t put the glass down. And that’s saying something.

I wished I would have drank 3 of these 1 ounce pours. Just saying. I almost bought a bottle before I left.

Final Thoughts

I’ll be honest. Wiseguy Lounge is starting to become a top pick for me. It is likely going to make my 2024 Top Bourbon Bars in Indy list. They just kick ass and have some great barrel picks.

If you haven’t been, make an effort to stop by. And if you need a friend, reach out to me and I will always go grab a drink and shoot the shit.

Cheers!

Before we get started, I wanted to take a moment to give a shoutout to the Indiana Liquor Group (ILG) and Jeff Clark for taking the time to make these tastings happen in our local area. I’ve only been to the tastings in New Castle (at the Noble Wine and More), but I know they make these tastings happen at multiple stores. So thank you.

And let me take a moment to explain the picture below. It’s my brother-in-law David with a bottle of Eagle Rare. This was David’s first time at a bourbon tasting and he was able to walk out of the event with a bottle of 10 Year Eagle Rare at MSRP (so did myself, my dad, and a close friend). And there was no raffle, lottery, or gimmick involved. I’ll explain some more below.

Now. I’m going to put my professor hat on for a minute and give you a little rundown of why you should never miss a bourbon tasting at your local liquor store.

Reason 1 – There Is Free Bourbon

This should be the most obvious reason in the world, but in case you didn’t know this they do really give out free samples of bourbon at these events. The hope is you try something, love it, and want to buy a bottle, but regardless they want you to give the bourbon a try. Typically they will highlight store picks and other unique offerings, but you never know what you might find.

In this tasting, we tasted a lot of Starlight store picks from Papa Joe’s Liquor out of Richmond (new to the Indiana Liquor Group family). I was able to try the following variations of Starlight store picks: Straight Bourbon, Double Oaked, Port Barrel Finish, Grape Brandy Barrel Finish, VDN Barrel Finish, Maple Barrel Finish, Rye Double Oaked, and Rye Rum Cask Finish. And then I got to try a tequila and a sample of Eagle Rare.

And each tasting is different, so you never know what you will get to try each time you attend a tasting.

Reason 2 – You Might Find Your New Favorite

At these tastings, you might get to try a few off the wall items that you might have never thought about trying before. And that might not be a bad thing.

Throughout the tastings I have been to, I have actually found a few new products I now go out of my way to grab a bottle of if I see it in the store (some of the Old Hamer picks and New Riff 2551 are just a few). And I have learned a little more about my palate, the palate of my store pick “pickers,” and about the distilleries who make these products.

And all of this makes me a better consumer and a more knowledgeable bourbon lover.

Reason 3 – The Staff Get To Know You

If there was one thing I would teach you in one of my college sales classes, it would be this:

Relationships matter!

When it comes to the possibility of getting special access to new offerings, allocated offerings, and other items, a relationship is the most important thing you can build with your local liquor store. When the staff know you and know you frequent the store AND buy their products, it’s never a bad thing.

Reason 4 – You Find Other Bourbon Lovers In Your Area

Over the last few years, I have attended a bunch of different tastings and I have started to see a few of the same people at multiple events. And over time, these other bourbon lovers will become your friends.

I now have a network of bourbon drinkers in my immediate area who will let me know about upcoming tastings and new bottles. They will let me know when there is a deal happening and they’ll let me know when there is a special happening.

These people become your bourbon network. And it’s always good to be a part of a network.

Reason 5 – You Never Know If There Will Be A Surprise

My dad, brother-in-law, and myself walked into this tasting to try some new bourbons and walked out with an allocated bottle of bourbon at MSRP.

And when we walked in, we had no idea this was going to happen.

Usually, when there is an allocated product that will be raffled off, there is a large promotion around it. I see a few different emails, a video, and a few social media posts about the big offering (last time it was an Old Forester Single Barrel Pick). And then you show up and you are met with a large crowd of people who are wanting to be a part of the “chance” to win.

And then at the next tasting, you are back to your regulars. And all of the “bourbon chasers” are no where to be seen.

So the Indiana Liquor Group decided to try something a little different. What if we rewarded (randomly) our regulars with special items without promoting it to everyone and their brother? And what if we did this without telling anyone at which tasting it was going to happen? So we get a consistent group of attendees at each tasting instead of a big spike around a special product release. And then we can expose our products and picks to more people and build our following.

I’m a fan of these tastings, so I’ll be at each one if it is possible (regardless of any surprises), but it doesn’t hurt to get rewarded for your loyalty from time to time.

And you might be wondering why I’m sharing this with the masses…

Because I want these tastings to continue! Good attendance, great bourbon sales, and a better bourbon community provide more opportunities for me. So I want to share the information and grow these tastings.

Reason 6 – You Become An Insider

I mentioned building relationships and getting surprises from time to time, but there is also another perk to these tastings. You become an insider.

What do I mean by this?

Well – you get “in the know” about upcoming events, tastings, picks, etc. And it’s because the people involved love to share.

So I know of an upcoming barrel pick for ILG coming in the next few months. And I know where it is coming from. And I’m very excited.

But you don’t know because you weren’t there.

That’s what makes being an insider so valuable. I have knowledge that will lead to the landing of an amazing store pick before the general public. All because I went to try a few samples of free bourbon and hang out with some other fellow bourbon lovers.

Conclusion

If you get a chance to attend a tasting at your local liquor store, DO IT. Not only will you get a few free samples, you will also find some new connections, build friendship, become an insider, and might even snag a surprise. But most importantly, you be supporting your local bourbon community and making sure you have these wonderful opportunities in the future.

Cheers!

A few weeks ago, I had the opportunity to receive and try my first bourbon samples from a fellow bourbon lover (thanks again Jason)!

And imagine what I did. I shared with my friends.

I’ll be honest – I was surprised that this actually happened. I was in a Facebook group and they had a thread about trading bourbons. I put my name on the list and a week later I had some tracking information on my samples. I waited around until they showed up (because I was worried it wouldn’t come – I imagine this is a common fear) and then I packed up the samples for Jason and sent them back his way.

Things I Learned

Since it was my first time trading samples, I learned a few things:

1. You need some Boston Rounds to send samples. I realized this as I started thinking about what I was going to send. I quickly realized I needed some sort of vessel to ship my samples in. And I had to quickly order some. This was part of the reason my shipment was a little slower than normal.
2. You need to read the rules of the trade. I had never done this before, so I was just excited to receive a few samples. I didn’t realize (my bad) that this trade was a bottled-in-bond special. I sent over the four bottles from my house and none were bottled-in-bond. That was 100% my bad. Always read the rules if you are making a trade.
3. It’s not that hard. You have a some great people out there that are willing to trade and most people have no idea where to make that happen. I had some amazing samples and I sent some great pours along. And I made a friend.

And I’ll learn more the next time I trade bourbon. And I’ll learn more after that.

Want To Trade?

That all being said, I want to connect and trade some more bourbon samples!

My bourbon collection (or lack there of) is constantly changing and I’ll always have some store picks with some of my favorite liquor stores. And I want to share that experience with you.

If you are interested, send me an email at chriswilkey@gmail.com – I would love to send a few samples in return for a few samples. We can set the terms of the trade via email, but I would love to chat.

It’s a simple post, but one that I needed to get onto the blog. I want to start to build a network of bourbon lovers and I know that this is a great way to do it.

I look forward to your emails and our conversations.

Cheers!