The single barrel is unquestionably better, but I like the small batch fine for the price. Hard pressed to find much better in the $30 range, though admittedly the market is more crowded. Not to go all Guru, but I find it hard to justify > $40 on the regular. I used to drink Maker’s/Knob Creek regularly, but wanted a step up, even if it is a small step. Granted, I’m a 2 cubes guy, not a neat drinker, so that says plenty.

This was my experience as well with cocktails. Neat it was meh. I'd rather drink Wild Turkey or Buffalo Trace for the price.

I can find a lot better for $30 than their small batch but drink what you like and drink it how you like. As long as it's bourbon, it's all good!

Some others to try if you'd like for $30 and under:
Evan Williams Single Barrel
Elijah Craig
Eagle Rare
Henry McKenna
Russel's Reserve
Larceny

I think Maker's is over-rated. Knob Creek is decent.

Theme is drink what you like though!

Haven’t had Henry McKenna or Russel’s Reserve, but I’ve had the rest, some from their respective distilleries (I just moved to KC from Louisville). For me, I wouldn’t call any of them definitively better, but to each their own!

I never know which one to pick. I leave it up to my Kentucky friend.

Pour one for the homies.

Sounds like the other half of the rickhouse in Kentucky collapsed today. :crybaby:

They didn't move everything out after the first collapse?

I don't believe they attempted, or were allowed, to. Structurally unsound and flowing into a nearby creek probably brought out all kinds of badges and red tape.

I'm wondering if they'll be able to salvage some and create a "survivor" blend we can all over pay for.

53 fish died dammit

Died happy

Wife, I and the child went out for great afternoon beers. Lots of amazing sours.

Put junior to bed and having a night cap.

That is a healthy pour :clap:

It's amazing to me how dialed in the bourbon that comes out of Kentucky is compared to people trying to make good bourbon in other states. I wonder what it is about that area that just works so damn well.

I drove through Kentucky back in 2005 when I found a feed truck on the internet to go check out. Driving through the countryside all the barns were painted black. Really weird. That place is slam full of Omish people. Wonder if they were all drunk on barn paintin day ?

Right place, right time today. I really enjoyed the Weller Special Reserve I found in KC, so I'm looking forward to trying this over the weekend.

https://i.imgur.com/RRr74fC.jpg?1