If the concept of a Japanese blender behind a bourbon sounds familiar, that’s because Jim Beam introduced this concept with Legent a few years ago, a collaboration between master distiller Fred Noe and Suntory blender Shinji Fukuyo. Now Kentucky Owl has gotten in on the action as well, combining the forces of master blenders John Rhea and Yusuke Yahisa of Japan’s Nagahama Distillery. So how does this new release differ?

Obviously, the bourbon at the core of the release is entirely different. Kentucky Owl is a brand started by Dixon Dedman in 2014, a revival of his family’s whiskey legacy that sourced bourbon and rye from undisclosed distilleries, and often ended up selling for hundreds of dollars. Dedman left the company last year and has since embarked upon new endeavors. Stoli Group, which owns Kentucky Owl, is currently building a massive new distillery-cum-themepark in Bardstown, KY, but in the meantime there’s been some limited-edition releases with Rhea (formerly of Four Roses) as head blender.

Takumi Edition Bourbon (“takumi” means “master” in Japanese) is the latest, a blend of four-, five-, six- and 13-year-old Kentucky bourbon made from mash bills containing corn, wheat or rye, and malted barley.

Tasting notes include rye bread and caramel on the nose, followed by cinnamon, apple and pear on the palate. 

Symphony No.3 is a departure from the norm.

It is not a product that is dependent on corporate funding, or celebrity endorsement. It is born of friendship, family, trust, and respect.

It is proudly produced in the USA – made from Floridian sugar cane, conceived in California, and bottled in Minnesota.

Forget what you think you know about rum – Symphony No.3 is your new standard.

Symphony No.3 white rum

Elevated beyond typical white rum, Symphony No.3 white rum is so smooth that it can be enjoyed neat or over ice, unadulterated from any other flavor.

Distilled in a pot still from molasses produced from Floridian sugar cane. Our final spirit is bottled at 40% abv and is free of any additives or artificial colors. An easily approachable elegance. Your new standard.

Tropical notes of freshly cut apple, fig and guava. Elements of lemongrass and jasmine flowers can be noted. Smooth and extremely well-balanced, no burn. An exceptionally easy sipping rum, great neat or over ice.

ABOUT THE BRAND

A truly special whiskey is the culmination of a few key characteristics: Experience. Teamwork. Quality in every step. And last but not least, passion.  At Old Carter Whiskey Co, it’s our promise to ensure you can taste our expertise and inspiration with every unique release, and in every sip.

Old Carter is the passion project of “flavor chaser” partners Mark Carter and Sherri Carter, whose beverage industry roots trace back to award-winning careers in the California wine business. After resurrecting the long-dormant bourbon brand Kentucky Owl in 2011, the two were irreversibly hooked on the art of whiskey making and blending. Kentucky Owl sold unexpectedly in 2017, but by then Sherri & Mark were so enamored with the vibrant spirit of Kentucky’s whiskey community, they made a commitment to carry on their love affair with whiskey by making a statement of their own, right in the Bluegrass. And Old Carter Whiskey Co was born.

Headquartered in Louisville, the Old Carter team produces Straight Ryes, Bourbons and American Whiskies in locations throughout Kentucky. Each bottle is personally crafted by Mark and Sherri, who create every blend and select every single barrel program release together.

ABOUT THE BRAND

A truly special whiskey is the culmination of a few key characteristics: Experience. Teamwork. Quality in every step. And last but not least, passion.  At Old Carter Whiskey Co, it’s our promise to ensure you can taste our expertise and inspiration with every unique release, and in every sip.

Old Carter is the passion project of “flavor chaser” partners Mark Carter and Sherri Carter, whose beverage industry roots trace back to award-winning careers in the California wine business. After resurrecting the long-dormant bourbon brand Kentucky Owl in 2011, the two were irreversibly hooked on the art of whiskey making and blending. Kentucky Owl sold unexpectedly in 2017, but by then Sherri & Mark were so enamored with the vibrant spirit of Kentucky’s whiskey community, they made a commitment to carry on their love affair with whiskey by making a statement of their own, right in the Bluegrass. And Old Carter Whiskey Co was born.

Headquartered in Louisville, the Old Carter team produces Straight Ryes, Bourbons and American Whiskies in locations throughout Kentucky. Each bottle is personally crafted by Mark and Sherri, who create every blend and select every single barrel program release together.

FAST FACTS

> Beijing Ergoutou is one of the most popular drinks among the young Chinese in Beijing

> Ergoutou is the typical representative of the capital’s wine culture

TASTING NOTES

BOUQUET: Toasted bread, earthy tone, and roasted nut

PALATE: Nutty, sweet, jasmine, grains

Xi Feng Jiu is made with premium sorghum, wheat, barley, and peas with natural underground water from Shaanxi province. It has a fresh nose with touches of cherry and pine, finishing with a hint of sweetness.

A blend of 4-5 yr. old straight rye and straight bourbon mashed, fermented, distilled and aged at the Cedar Ridge Distillery.

Mashbill: 51% Corn, 35% Malted Rye, 14% Malted Barley

OUR STORY

Our story starts with our people. Big Stick is owned by Mike Ryan and Joe Baker. Mike is an engineer and inventor. His best friend, Joe, is a retired USMC Lieutenant Colonel of 21 years, and for the last 16 years was with the Navy in the Department of Defense. These friends of 40 years decided to follow through on a shared passion to create a world-class bourbon of their own called Big Stick.

Big Stick begins in the traditional bourbon making method. We source the finest ingredients and age them in charred New American White Oak to our exact specifications.

After experimenting with traditional mash bills and dozens of variations, we opted for a unique blend to offer an unmatched flavor profile.

Big Stick Bourbon is ultra-smooth because before bottling, we add a c­harred New American White Oak Stick into every bottle. The bourbon to stick in bottle ratio is 99.8% equivalent to that of bourbon in a 53-gallon barrel. Similar to a “Double Oaked” whiskey, this added step allows our bourbon to gracefully integrate with new oak for a second time.

This innovative process creates an exceptional and extremely smooth whiskey with rich, enhanced flavors. With no evaporation in bottle versus in barrel; we like to say, “We Make The Angels Thirsty!™” All Big Stick Bourbon is small batch.

MISSION FOCUSED

With a strong respect for tradition combined with innovation, we are dedicated to creating world-class bourbon.

We intentionally make Big Stick Bourbon at 47.5% ABV or 95 proof. We do so symbolically for our pledge to donate 5% of our profits to charitable organizations that support our military and their families. We love the United States of America and support with gratitude to those that serve to protect and defend our nation.

We realize we cannot solve all the issues that affect our service members and their families from these donations. But if by aiding these organizations in some way eases the lives of the honorable men and women that have served, then we believe it is the least we can do. Please visit our Operation Gratitude page to view a list we have supported and if you are able join our efforts to contribute.

OUR PASSION

HONORING ALL WHO SERVED

 Our drive for creating a great bourbon is only matched for our devotion to giving back to the military community.

We are blessed to live in the greatest country in the world and recognize the many sacrifices members of the military have made to allow us to pursue our love of making a great whiskey.

To help direct support to service members, Big Stick Bourbon will dedicate five percent of our profits to military organizations.

Semper Fi — It’s not just a name, it’s a way of life.

TASTING NOTES

Big Stick Bourbon is the only whiskey that adds a charred American white oak stave in every bottle which continually improves the flavor and smoothes out the drinking experience.

COLOR: Saddle brown leather

NOSE: Fresh cut oak, spearmint, clove with a touch of cigar box

PALATE: Black currant, vanilla wafers, raisins, caramel toffee, and glazed honey

FINISH: Well-balanced, integrated seasoned oak, blueberries, blackberries, stone ground crackers, and a mix of citrus

THE KOVAL METHOD
KOVAL Distillery crafts a line of whiskey, gin, and specialty spirits using unique organic grains and signature “heart cut” techniques with only the absolute best quality distillate. Known around the world for its bright, approachable flavors and unprecedented creativity and design, KOVAL has been the recipient of over 100 international awards.

A NEW WAVE OF CRAFT SPIRITS
KOVAL’s founders have used their experience and knowledge to educate thousands of people in the art of craft distilling. Through their consulting with Kothe Distilling Technologies, they have helped set up hundreds of new distilleries all around the world, ushering in a new wave of craft spirits internationally. They serve as ambassadors for the industry, maintaining close ties with various trade organizations,special interest groups, and government officials to ensure that independent craft brands continue to receive support and opportunities to thrive around the world.

KOVAL Rye, aged for a minimum of four years in our federally bonded warehouse, bottled at precisely 100 proof. Ideal for those who like plenty of spice, and a single, unmalted grain expression. Not shying away from a complex flavor profile, grain-forward spiciness nuanced by cinnamon and ginger give a nice kick to the entire drinking experience. 

Naughty Dog and The Digital Spirits Project worked in collaboration to create a Blended Scotch Whisky that truly reflects the Last of Us Part II, and the stories of its two iconic locations Jackson and Seattle.

Discover this limited edition Blended Scotch Whisky matured in 100% American Oak Barrels filled in 2013. A vintage distilled in the same year Cordyceps devastated The Last of Us universe. Created by our Master Blender Kevin Balmforth – a true fan of the game – bridging the gap between whisky and gaming.

Production Notes
Made with agave harvested at peak ripeness from Código 1530’s own fields. Slowly cooked then uniquely fermented in small batches using Napa Valley Cabernet wine barrels procured from the finest French oak coopers, before distilling at our own dedicated tequila distillery.

Tasting Notes
Aromas whisper of cherry blossom, maple, vanilla. Soft on the palate thanks to our unique barrel-fermentation process. Fresh & balanced tasting profile, buttery with notes of nutty pumpkin seed, clove and rosemary mint. Full body spirit with palate permanence.

100% Pure Blue Weber Agave

Crafted in partnership with Traeger®, the original wood fired grill, SmokeStock is the ultimate whiskey for the backyard bartender. This limited edition whiskey is aged in American Oak No. 3 char barrels and then smoked slow and low with Traeger’s all-natural Apple BBQ wood, imparting campfire smoke and subtle savory notes alongside our signature bold and spice-forward style. A nod to the American cookout season, it’s perfect on the rocks while you fire up the Traeger®, or paired with your favorite BBQ recipe to share around the backyard table this summer.

AGED IN NEW AMERICAN OAK, SMOKED WITH TRAEGER APPLE BBQ WOOD

TASTING NOTES

NOSE: Smoky notes with hints of leather and vanilla.

PALATE: Smoke gradually wells up on the palate bringing a mouthful of warm creamy apple and slight savory notes of barbecue.

FINISH: Long and smoky with our signature Rye finish.

TASTING NOTES: Lovely amber color. Aromas of oloroso sherry and amaretto on the nose with notes of vanilla and caramel on the palate. Good balance of spice and fruit. Classic baking spice notes from the oak. A hint of bergamot on the palate near the finish - similar to Earl Grey tea. Sweet on the finish.

RECENT AWARDS: Gold Medal, 91 points, USA Spirits Ratings 2022

This fine Cognac is produced in the Jonzac region of France from Ugni Blanc grapes grown in the Petite Champagne and Fins Bois terroirs.  

This cognac is beautifully balanced with a harmonious blend of varieties.  Yellow fruit aroma with a slight touch of honey and wildflowers.  Light and round in the mouth thanks to the careful blend of Petite Champagne and Fins Bois varieties.

Double-distilled in a traditional swan neck still and aged for a minimum of five to seven years in oak casks from the Limousin and Troncais forests.

Enjoy before or after meals in a tulip-shaped glass or as a long drink or in a cocktail.

This fine Cognac is produced in the Jonzac region of France from grapes grown in the Grand Champagne and Petite Champagne terroirs. Intensely deep amber with shimmering hues of gold.  A subtle bouquet of dried fruit and oakiness, along with a touch of vanilla. Exceptionally expressive and lingering.  A wonderful balance between delicacy and full bodied-ness, with added complexity of notes of fruit and wood. This 25-year-old cognac is presented in a luxurious, cut crystal decanter with delicate ornamentation. It is exceptionally harmonious and elegant, a true reflection of the superior aging conditions of the eau-de-vies used for this sophisticated blend. Double-distilled in a traditional swan neck still and aged for a minimum of TWENTY FIVE YEARS in oak casks from the Limousin and Troncais forests.

To be savored slowly and patiently after a meal. This Cognac should be reserved for a special circle of friends and family with whom you wish to share treasured memories.

Awards

Silver Medal, General Agricultural Competition of Paris 2023

Silver Medal, General Agricultural Competition of Paris 2019

This Calvados is an aged and finely blended Calvados where the youngest spirit used in the blend is 15 years old.

Complex with subtle aromas of butter toffee and flowers.  Smooth on the palate, with a finish slightly reminiscent of honeysuckle. Serve in a small brandy glass.

This Calvados follows the strict Calvados AOC guidelines  requiring  distillation in a single column still.  The fermented cidre that is used for making this Calvados (called calvados cidre) is fermented for 12 months in hundred-year-old oak barrels before being distilled. After distillation, the resulting spirits are put in oak barrels once again and aged for a minimum of 15 years.  The cellar master blends this Tradition 15 years by carefully selecting the brandies that display the most supple yet complex characteristics.

RECENT AWARDS: Gold Medal: General Agricultural Competition Paris 2011

CERTIFICATION: Calvados Pays d'Auge (Protected Designation of Origin)

AGEING: Minimum of 20 years in oak barrels.

REFERENCES
The Calvados, Cordon Argent Pierre Huet, is served in prestigious restaurants as: L’Auberge du Pont de Collonges, restaurant of Paul Bocuse or Le Cafe Dessirier, one of the most seafood restaurant in Paris owned by Michel Rostang.

This Calvados is an aged and finely blended Calvados where the youngest spirit used in the blend is 20 years old. 

Inviting aromas of apple tart, salted butter caramel, and sugared apples greet the nose with a touch of mint and rancio. The palate is nutty with a touch of caramel and vanilla, culminating in a luxuriously complex finish with dark chocolate and clove.

Pierre Huet Calvados AOC Pays d’Auge Cordon Argent 20 years

This 20-year-old (minimum) blend follows the strict Calvados AOC guidelines that require single-distillation in a traditional column still called an “alambic á colonne.” The fermented cider that is used for making this Calvados (called calvados cidre) is fermented for 12 months in hundred-year-old oak barrels before being distilled. After continuous distillation, the resulting spirits are put in oak barrels once again and aged for a minimum of 20 years.  The cellar master blends this Cordon Argent 20 years by carefully selecting the brandies that display the most supple yet complex characteristics. Savor in a small brandy glass.

Recent Awards:

Silver Medal - Bartender Spirits Awards, 2021

Silver Medal - Regional Competition, Cambremer, Normandy 2012

This Calvados VS follows the strict Calvados AOC Pays d’Auge guidelines that require double-distillations in a traditional copper pot still called an “alembic á repassé.”

Tastes of freshly picked apples sautéed in butter, with a hint of mint. Little complexity with a strong “eau de vie” taste. Perfect for craft cocktails or served over ice with tonic and a wheel of lime.

"Warm spices on the nose, with flavors of baked apple and a faint hint of mint on the tongue." Silver Medal - Bartender Spirits Awards, 2021

The fermented cidre that is used for making Calvados (called calvados cidre) is fermented for 12 months in hundred-year-old oak barrels before being distilled. The Calvados is then put in oak barrels once again and aged for two to three years.

RECENT AWARDS: Gold Medal, 92 points, USA Spirits Ratings

TASTING NOTES: Deep amber color.  Lovely strong pear and baked apple on the nose. Delicate notes of salted butter caramel and cider spices with a hint of salinity. Slightly peppery and minty on the finish. Incredibly round and well-bodied leading to a long extended finish. Serve in a small brandy glass.

This Calvados XO (also known as Vieille Réserve 8 years) follows the strict Calvados AOC Pays d'Auge guidelines that require double-distillations in a traditional copper pot still called an "alembic á repassé."

The fermented cidre that is used for making Calvados (called calvados cidre) is fermented for 12 months in hundred-year-old oak barrels before being distilled. After distillation, the resulting spirits are put in oak barrels once again and aged for a minimum of eight years. 

Recent Awards: Silver Medal – Regional Competition, Cambremer, Normandy 2012

This Calvados VS follows the strict Calvados AOC Pays d’Auge guidelines that require double-distillations in a traditional copper pot still called an “alembic á repassé.”

Tastes of freshly picked apples sautéed in butter, with a hint of mint. Little complexity with a strong “eau de vie” taste. Perfect for craft cocktails or served over ice with tonic and a wheel of lime.

"Warm spices on the nose, with flavors of baked apple and a faint hint of mint on the tongue." Silver Medal - Bartender Spirits Awards, 2021

The fermented cidre that is used for making Calvados (called calvados cidre) is fermented for 12 months in hundred-year-old oak barrels before being distilled. The Calvados is then put in oak barrels once again and aged for two to three years.