Tag Archives: Whiskey Blog

March Bourbon Madness: Best-of-the-Shelf Challenge—Final Four and Championship

Posted on April 6, 2026 by Douglas Blaine

The bracket comes down to depth versus dessert. Far Better outlasts a loaded field with layered complexity and a finish that simply wouldn’t quit, edging Toasted Pecan in a category-by-category championship battle. Sixty-four bottles entered. One remained. Continue reading →

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March Bourbon Madness: Best-of-the-Shelf Challenge—Second Round Matchups 13-16

Posted on March 29, 2026 by Douglas Blaine

Round 2 closes with depth, dessert profiles, and a few decisive finishes. Old Forester’s 117 moves on, 13th Colony flexes its complexity, Oloroso proves its smoky edge, and Woodford Double Oaked does what it does best—linger. The Sweet 16 is set, and the margin for error is gone. Continue reading →

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

Posted on March 28, 2026 by Douglas Blaine

Round 2 continues to separate depth from durability. Old Forester flexes again, Magnus edges a tight one, Toasted Pecan rolls, and 1792 Full Proof proves it belongs in the conversation. Chocolate, cherries, and caramel keep showing up—but integration and finish are deciding who survives. Continue reading →

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March Bourbon Madness: Best-of-the-Shelf Challenge—First Round Matchups 21-24

Posted on March 19, 2026 by Douglas Blaine

Round one keeps delivering heavy hitters. A toasted pecan surprise makes a statement, a 100-proof staple falls short, and two dessert-forward contenders flex serious muscle. Texture, balance, and finish are starting to separate true bracket threats from solid everyday pours. The Round of 32 is beginning to look dangerous. Continue reading →

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