Bottlings from the distillery (or KY) only

[MikeK]

I'll be in Frankfort next month and wonder if there are bottlings I should seek out that are available only at the distillery or in the area? As a very simple example, I have read reviews for a variety of Makers Mark bottlings, but have never seen anything in person other than the normal red topped bottle.

I plan to visit Buffalo Trace, Wild Turkey, HH, Makers Mark, Four Roses, Labrot & Graham ...

Thanks, Mike

[bucky1]

Mike,
I don't think you'll find any bottlings available only at the distillery. The only thing you can purchase at Makers Mark is a sovenir bottle that they let you dip in wax. You will find a few KY only bottlings to check out. The two obvious ones to me are Four Roses Single Barrel & the KY only Stagg (if you can still find it). If you like Wild Turkey you might pick up the new Russell's Reserve 90 proof...I like the 101 proof much better.

I'm sure you'll pick up good advice from the rest of the forum.

Sounds like a busy trip....have fun.

Jon

[jbohan]

Sometimes they have bottles at Buffalo Trace that are autographed by Elmer T. Lee himself.

[Brewer]

Mike,

If you can get over to Lexington, go to the Thoroughbred Shop. They have (better inquire about availability) a Single Barrel bottling of Buffalo Trace. It was our runner-up last year when a group of us bought a barrel.

[bunghole]

Mike,

Jim Beam usually has some special bottling that is available at 'the outpost only'.

Also Heaven Hill has some really effin cute little jugs of Evan Williams Master Distillers Select that you can get personalized. If you've not had any, don't blame me if you fall head over heals in love! Damn fine bourbon!

ima

[TNbourbon]

Evan Williams 1783 and HH's (formerly Stitzel-Weller, but now Bernheim bourbon) Old Fitzgerald 1849 are excellent bottom-shelf bottlings not available widely outside of Kentucky. Steals at $9-$11 for 750ml.
Also, if you see Very Rare Old Heaven Hill 10yo BIB (a white label in square bottle with tall neck), don't pass it at $11-$12.

[jbohan]

Mike,

Be sure to stop by a Liquor Barn location in Lexington or Louisville, and several posts on this site have good things to say about the Bourbon Bistro in Louisville.

John

[MikeK]

Many thanks for all the great tips.

Although BT is my favorite distillery, I am very interested in visits to HH and Four Roses since I have tasted little to none from either. I am quite interested to see what they are making and bringing a few bottles home.

What HH labels should I check out at the distillery or on the shelves (other than the excellent suggestions already offered)

I'll also keep my eyes open for VanWinkle and Maple Hill while in the area. (Both are limited and pricey at home) All bottles VW are super, and I've never tried a BMH.

Thanks for the advice, and keep it coming

Mike

[BSS]

You won't find any Black Maple Hill around Frankfort. I have never seen it in Kentucky.

[brendaj]

Can you get Ancient Ancient Age (not 10 Star), or Very Old Barton in MA?
If not, they're both worth taking home.
Bj