Bourbon Regrets

We all have a story to share when it comes to bourbon regrets.  Whether we bought a bottle the store owner pushed on us that turned out to be awful, or passing on a bottle of bourbon that quickly turned into a unicorn. We compiled a list of some stories we’ve heard from the Bourbon Community.

Passed on:

  • Russell’s Reserve 1998 for $250
  • Booker’s 25th when it sat on shelves in San Diego
  • 3 Booker’s Rye’s on the shelf for $300 each
  • 6 bottles of Jefferson’s Presidential Select 18, 23, and 25 year.
  • Entire shelf of Elmer T. Lee
  • Old Rip Van Winkle 10 yr , years ago
  • Hirsch 16 for $190, went back hours later and it was gone.
  • Last July I saw a bottle of Booker’s Rye on a shelf in Indiana for $269.99, and I left it there
  • Macallan 25 when it was half of what they are asking now.
  • I left a retail Pappy 23 sitting on the shelf because it seemed crazy at the time to drop $250 on a bottle of bourbon.
  • Was a newbie, passed on a Willett gift shop 20yo and 23yo bourbon they had in stock…still kick myself to this day for that one
  • RR 1998, Bookers 25th for $110,  2014 M20 for $599
  • 4 Kentucky Owl’s in the wild

Bought:

  • Calumet Farms, not good
  • Willet Pot Still.
  • Jack Daniel’s Un-aged Rye
  • Bought Elijah Craig 23 year, hated it
  • Parker’s Heritage 24 yr
  • Law’s Rye
  • New Black Maple Hill
  • Bib & Tucker
  • Gifted Horse
  • Whistle Pig 15 yr
  • Jefferson’s Grand Selection
  • Wadelyn Ranch outlaw bourbon

Other:

  • Dropped a bottle of E. H. Taylor Tornado survivor and broke it
  • First year into bourbon I walked into a liquor store and asked for Pappy, they said they were out but had the rest of the BTAC and said “no thanks.”
  • I stole the campus security car
  • I would have gotten a bottle of OWA if I didn’t stop to get some food Saturday morning. The guy in front of me got there just moments before I did and he got the last bottle.
  • Kept drinking it until i puked up a combo of bourbon and chicken wings…what a waste of both…the girl I was kissing at the time was none too pleased either.
  • [Drank] A whole fifth of makers at the local polish festival, whoops.
  • I bought a Pappy 15 for a friend’s 30th birthday in 2007 for $45. I should’ve cleared the store.
  • Years ago I only drank scotch and just walked by a pappy 15 and a GTS sitting on the shelf that were priced below $100.
  • Not stocking up on everything I used to drink in the early 2000‘s
  • Bourbon under the bridge, Louisville, KY, June 2017. 40 bourbons. I drank 38/40. I ralfed. Behind a trash can. BEHIND A TRASH CAN.

Some of these stories had us laughing and some made us wince, but they were too good not to share!  Let us know if you have any other bourbon regrets that you think other Bourbon Sippers would like to hear.

15 Stars Platinum Fine Aged Bourbon Review: A Luxurious Blend of Tradition and Craftsmanship

15 Stars Platinum Fine Aged Bourbon Review: A Luxurious Blend of Tradition and Craftsmanship

In the ever-evolving world of premium spirits, 15 Stars Platinum Fine Aged Bourbon emerges as a notable entrant, commanding attention with its intriguing blend and luxurious profile. Released in July 2023, this straight bourbon harmoniously combines 10, 15, and 18-year-old bourbons sourced from the revered distilleries of Kentucky, Indiana, and Tennessee. At 98 proof, it stands as a testament to expert craftsmanship and a deep understanding of bourbon blending.

Color and Presentation First impressions are set by its color – a deep, dark caramel that suggests the richness waiting within. Housed in an elegantly designed bottle, it justifies its price point of $280, not only with its contents but also with its shelf presence.

Nose Upon opening, 15 Stars Platinum Fine Aged Bourbon greets you with a bouquet of classic caramel and vanilla. These familiar scents are soon joined by the deeper, more complex aromas of oak, cherry, and leather, creating an olfactory tapestry that entices and intrigues.

Palate The palate is where this bourbon truly distinguishes itself. Its texture is remarkably rich and thick, carrying the promise made by its appearance and aroma. The flavors are a masterful blend: the sweetness of caramel and vanilla is perfectly balanced by the depth of oak, the fruitiness of cherry, and the earthiness of leather. This combination creates a harmonious and luxurious taste experience.

Source and Blend Speculation suggests that the bourbon components were meticulously chosen from prestigious sources: a 10-year-old from MGP, a 15-year-old from a renowned Kentucky distillery, and an 18-year-old from Dickel. This tri-state sourcing contributes to the bourbon’s unique profile.

Finish The finish is long and satisfying, leaving a lingering warmth and a reminder of the mature oak notes that are carefully woven throughout the sip. Unlike some of its contemporaries, 15 Stars Platinum Fine Aged Bourbon doesn’t overwhelm with the mature oak; instead, it’s skillfully balanced, ensuring a refined and enjoyable experience to the last drop.

Conclusion While 15 Stars Platinum Fine Aged Bourbon may not boast the broadest range of flavors in its category, it excels in delivering a highly satisfying sip with a well-developed oak profile. It might not be the most complex bourbon in its price range, but it offers a deeply gratifying experience, particularly for enthusiasts who appreciate a mature and thoughtfully crafted bourbon.

In conclusion, 15 Stars Platinum Fine Aged Bourbon stands as a remarkable blend, showcasing the art of bourbon blending at its finest. It’s a worthy addition to any collector’s cabinet and a delightful treat for those special occasions.


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