A New Look at Bottled in Bond

Despite examining this topic previously, it is time for a new look at bottled in bond. March 3, 1897, the Bottled in Bond Act became law.  It was significant in protecting the American consumer from rectifiers who sold whiskey that was dangerous.  This act...

Bourbon, Cannons, and Cassius Clay

Bourbon, Cannons, and Cassius Clay Before we get into the details of Cassius Clay Bourbon, we need to tell you that the Cassius Clay featured here is indeed the man that Muhammed Ali was named after. Cassius Clay Bourbon Whiskey featuring a Cannon in honor of Cassius...

The Origin of the Term Rickhouse

During a recent bourbon tasting, a participant asked about the origin of the term rickhouse. I explained I was not sure, but specially constructed buildings known as rickhouses, rackhouses, or warehouses are in use to store and age bourbon. One way of storing barrels...

Maker’s Mark Through the Eyes of a First Time Visitor

I have always felt that the distillery campus in Loretto was picturesque and historic. After many visits, I wanted to experience Maker’s Mark through the eyes of a first-time visitor. Of my two guests, one was a long-time fan of Maker’s Mark and is in...

Growth of the Kentucky Bourbon Trail

In 1999 the Kentucky Distillers Association formed the Kentucky Bourbon Trail, and I wonder if they envisioned the impressive growth of the Kentucky Bourbon Trail? During 1999, the distilleries were producing approximately four hundred and fifty thousand barrels. The...