About this episode

The episode features a tasting session of new special releases from major whiskey distilleries with expert insights from guest Bill Straub.

Jim Shannon and Todd Ritter welcome Bill Straub back to the Bourbon Road Bar — aka Jim's basement — for a deep dive into some of the most talked-about new special releases from the industry's biggest players. Bill, the co-founder of Fourgate Whiskey Company and the longtime voice behind ModernThirst.com, brings his seasoned palate and encyclopedic knowledge of mash bills to the table, making for a lively and insightful tasting session across four very different expressions. On the Tasting Mat: - Elijah Craig 15 Year Single Barrel (Barrel #28) — Heaven Hill: Bottled at 108 proof from Heaven Hill's classic 78/12/10 corn-malted barley-rye mash bill, this 15-year expression opens with a distinctive circus peanut and soft marshmallow nose that the guys identify as quintessential Heaven Hill. The palate delivers silky texture with almond and amaretto notes, while a pop of black pepper anchors a long, satisfying finish. MSRP $150. *(00:02:39)* - Old Forester Grand Dad 7 Year Single Barrel — Jim Beam (Old Grand-Dad): At 114 proof and carrying a high-rye mash bill of 63/27/10, this $50 release pours remarkably dark for its age. The nose offers orange marmalade and a subtle citrus-forward…

More episodes of The Bourbon Road

• 504. Black Corn, Witch's Brew, and the First West Lineup from 15 Stars · July 15, 2026 · 1h 17m
• 503. Little Book, Big Flavors: Five Barrel-Strength Showdowns · July 8, 2026 · 58 min
• 502. Five Pours, Zero Bad Choices · July 1, 2026 · 54 min
• 501. 50 States, One Glass: The Ultimate 250th Anniversary Tasting · June 24, 2026 · 1h 6m
• 500. The OG Returns: Randy Minnick Joins the 500th Episode Celebration · June 17, 2026 · 1h 13m
• 498. Spirits of Lawrenceburg: A Bourbon Legacy Forged Through Time · June 3, 2026 · 1h 8m

Explore listener stats, chart rankings, contacts and more on the The Bourbon Road podcast page.