I just returned from a road trip to KY for this year's Sampler (along with three friends). A great time was had by all in my group. Here are a few highlights from the tastings in the approximate order I favored them:
1. Van Winkle Family Reserve 16yo (SW bottled in '84)
2. Original Pappy 20 from the Boone Distillery
3. Pappy 22 1/2 yo (to be released this December)
4. Some old Weller 107's
5. Barrel sample from HH
6. ORVW Decanter 6yo
7. First bottlings of WT 12yo
8. Two Nikka japanese whiskys at barrel proof
9. Bourbon Balls made with Stagg
This year's Sampler had better food in larger quantities than last year. Gazebo guests included Mr. Russell and wife, Mr. Craig Beam and wife and Julian Van Winkle (who brought and shared several of the above mentioned treats). I'd guess the Gazebo crowd at 40 people +/- and contained the best assortment of long gone treasures (bourbons and ryes) I have ever seen on one table. In particular, John brought a very interesting old rye that was very balanced. I never even got around to tasting the new Stagg as there was so much to try Friday and Saturday nights.
Randy