Tag Archives: cask strength

March Bourbon Madness: Best-of-the-Shelf Challenge—First Round Matchups 9-12

Posted on March 14, 2026 by Douglas Blaine

Round of 64, Part Three delivered another mix of dominance and narrow escapes. One heavy hitter flexed hard, a couple mid-seeds quietly advanced, and texture once again proved to be a deciding factor. Twelve matchups in, the bracket is beginning to reveal who truly belongs. Continue reading →

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March Bourbon Madness: Best-of-the-Shelf Challenge—First Round Matchups 5-8

Posted on March 12, 2026 by Douglas Blaine

The second wave of the Round of 64 delivered proof-heavy bruisers, subtle upsets, and a few bottles that teased greatness but couldn’t quite carry it through. Eight more contenders went head-to-head in blind format, and four earned their place in the next round. The bracket is tightening—and texture is starting to matter. Continue reading →

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March Bourbon Madness: Best-of-the-Shelf Challenge—First Round Matchups 1-4

Posted on March 10, 2026 by Douglas Blaine

The Best-of-the-Shelf Challenge kicks off with four blind Round of 64 matchups, where high-proof heavyweights, savory classics, and a few surprises go head-to-head. With labels hidden and scores recorded blind, the opening round delivers decisive wins, tight finishes, and the first clear signs of which bottles are built for a deep bracket run. Continue reading →

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Tasting Tuesday: The 141-Proof Surprise Hiding in Plain Sight

Posted on January 6, 2026 by Douglas Blaine

A hole-in-the-wall Nashville distillery. A bottle with no UPC code. And a 141.2-proof bourbon so intense it was literally illegal to fly home with. This Tasting Tuesday introduces one of the most surprising and unforgettable pours from our summer whiskey road trip. Continue reading →

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The Sunday Pour: Living Life at Barrel Strength

Posted on December 7, 2025 by Douglas Blaine

Life doesn’t always come watered down. Some seasons arrive at full proof — hot, honest, and unfiltered — much like a true barrel-strength bourbon. I’ve had my share of those days and years, and I’ve learned that the burn often reveals what’s real. Scripture reminds us that God refines us through these uncut moments, strengthening our faith and shaping what comes next. Today’s pour is a toast to the truth hidden inside the heat. Continue reading →

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The Bourbon Cheapskate, Vol. 15: When $30 Beats $70 — A Blind Surprise at 120 Proof

Posted on November 13, 2025 by Douglas Blaine

When you can find barrel-proof bourbon under $40, it’s hard not to get curious. So I blinded Wolcott Rickhouse Reserve (a 120-proof Total Wine “Spirits Direct” bottle) against three bourbons I already enjoy and that fall within a tight proof … Continue reading →

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