PSA: WHISKEY DRAIN POURS MAKE YOU LOOK LIKE A JERK

Whiskey probably plays a significant role in your life if you are reading this article. You are probably in multiple groups that exist for no other reason than to view, discuss, and in some cases, share whiskey.

You probably have friends that you met through a mutual appreciation for whiskey. And you’ve probably spent a not-so-insignificant amount of time and energy hunting down your favorite bottles. In short, you love all-things whiskey. Some people view the popularity of whiskey only as a quick way to make a few bucks, but I have always felt that the vast majority are here because they are passionate about the product and have a true respect for the process that takes it from grain to bottle.

I still think I’m right, but my optimism is being challenged as of late.

Over the past few months I have noticed a perceptible increase in the number of “XX is total garbage” posts in bourbon groups. Inevitably, many of these are accompanied by a video of the poster dumping the whiskey down their drain to further emphasize their disgust – the infamous “drain pour.” In the whiskey world, drain pours have become the ultimate form of public product shaming. After all, what better way to show your disapproval than pouring some of your hard earned money down the drain, right? Wrong.

I have several issues with drain pours, but let’s start with the obvious – you are wasting whiskey. Yes, you don’t like it – we get that – but do you really need to post a video of you dumping the product to get that point across? Are you really that starved for attention? Instead, why not just post it at a reduced cost in a group? Or better yet – give it away to someone who will appreciate it. Some of the whiskeys I see being poured down drains, including Elmer T. Lee, Blanton’s and Michter’s, are difficult to find in many parts of the country and have a very loyal following. I’m sure plenty of people would be happy to take it off your hands.

Bad Bourbon, Whiskey Drain Pours Next, if a company is going about their business in an honest, open manner and are genuinely trying to release good products, why disrespect that effort just because it doesn’t agree with your palate?

That’s the equivalent of going to a fancy French restaurant and throwing your plate on the floor because you didn’t like the dish you CHOSE to order. Maybe you just don’t like French food. Or maybe it’s just you.

And lastly, you look like a jerk. I have never watched a drain pour video and thought to myself, “Now there is a reasonable, mature individual.” Quite the contrary – you look like a petulant child refusing to eat dinner just to annoy or get attention from their parents. What, that chicken fried steak isn’t good enough for your refined taste? Great, pass it over.

And while we’re at it, let’s proactively address three of the more predictable (and tiresome) responses that this article is bound to elicit.

  1. “I bought it, I can do what I want with it.”
    I couldn’t agree more. If you want to pour a bottle down the drain, go for it. My problem is not as much with you dumping the bottle, it’s with you making a public spectacle out of it just to get a response. Get attention elsewhere.
  2. “Life is too short for bad whiskey.”  
    If the point here is that we shouldn’t waste our time drinking whiskey we don’t like, then I again agree. However, not liking a whiskey doesn’t mean that it is “bad” – it just means you don’t like it. Find someone who does. Or take it to a party and sit it next to a 2 liter of Coke – I guarantee someone will enthusiastically combine the two.
  3. “Don’t tell me what to do with my whiskey.”
    This is similar to point #1, but a bit more defensive. I’m not telling you what to do with your whiskey, I’m asking you to not be a jerk about it. There is no defensible reason for posting a drain pour video and taking a public dump on a whiskey. None.

Before I end this article I have one last point to make…

I love whiskey and I respect the people who produce it honorably. I have met and become friends with amazing people because of whiskey. And whiskey has afforded me the opportunity to have experiences that I probably don’t deserve. STOP SHAMING MY WHISKEY!

JE

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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ABC Fine Wine & Spirits Exclusive Four Roses OBSF Bourbon Review

Introduction:
ABC Fine Wine & Spirits, a family-owned business operating in Florida since 1936, has selected a special Four Roses Single Barrel OBSF Bourbon for their customers. This unique barrel strength expression is a result of meticulous selection from Four Roses’ ten distinct recipes, and this review will take you on a tasting journey of this intriguing bourbon.

Whiskey Details:
• Distillery: Four Roses Distillery
• Selected by: ABC Fine Wine & Spirits
• Recipe: OBSF
• Mashbill: 60% corn, 35% rye, 5% malted barley
• Age: 8 years and 9 months
• Bottled: October 12, 2018
• ABV: 57.5%
Tasting Notes:
Nose:
Upon the first whiff, the nose is graced with fresh honey and toffee notes. The aromas are sweet and inviting, providing a delightful introduction to this bourbon. The rye component of the mashbill is subtle but adds a pleasant depth to the overall olfactory experience.
Palate:
As the bourbon hits the palate, light brown sugar comes to the forefront, accompanied by a mild spice from the rye. The oak influence is apparent but not overpowering, harmoniously interlacing with the other flavors. The balance of sweetness and spice is expertly achieved, making it an enjoyable sip for bourbon enthusiasts of all levels.
Finish:
The finish on this Four Roses OBSF is long and lingers with prominent notes of vanilla and leather. The leather adds an interesting, earthy complexity, while the vanilla provides a smooth, velvety end to the sip. The high ABV does not overwhelm the senses but instead offers a pleasant warmth that enhances the overall experience.
Conclusion:
Discover our in-depth review of the exclusive Four Roses OBSF Bourbon, specially selected by ABC Fine Wine & Spirits. Experience the inviting aroma of fresh honey and toffee, followed by a harmonious balance of light brown sugar, mild spice, and oak on the palate. Delight in the long, smooth finish of vanilla and leather in this remarkable bourbon, perfect for enthusiasts and collectors alike. Don’t miss out on this limited-release treasure!

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Head-to-Head Tennessee Titans: George Dickel Bottled in Bond vs. Jack Daniel’s Old No. 7

George Dickel Bottled In Bond

Joe Cornwall, a guest contributor for the Slurred Speech blog shares a side-by-side review of George Dickel Bottled in Bond vs. Jack Daniel’s Old No. 7. Grab a glass and follow along! In May of this year, I saw an announcement about the imminent release of a new whiskey.  It was a bottled-in-bond expression, and […]