Is it possible that for under $40 you can enjoy probably the finest "Barrel Proof" whiskey? Low and behold, the answer is yes! We thought we were taking a chance trying Devils River Barrel Strength Texas Bourbon Whiskey. Truth be told, shame on us for not finding this product quicker. At 117 proof, we weren't sure what to expect but this drink is full of flavor and smooth as velvet. Sure, there is a punch to it, but it tastes more like a 90 proof drink. At anytime do you feel you are drinking a high-proof drink as there is no heat whatsoever. The dark amber color draws you to the fancy, rectangular shaped botte. Scent of oak and vanilla hit you right away before the fruit flavors and a touch of honey. Devils River is stocked with several great products which include Distiller's Select Straight Bourbon Whiskey and Single Barrel Straight Bourbon. For those who enjoy flavored products, Devils River offers coffee, agave, and cinnamon bourbon as well. While we never tell anyone what to spend your money on, Devils River is a value that can not be beaten.

As mentioned prior, I began my journey into the world of whiskey two years ago, starting with Scotch. While I enjoyed several such as Aberlour, Balvenie, and Dalmore, something was missing. I wasn't enjoying it fully and appreciate it. But then I discovered whiskey, bourbon, and rye. I had found what I was looking for! The "it" that I sought was discovered and I haven't looked back. Everyone has different tastes of course, but in two short years I know that I lean towards the dark color, rich with caramel, vanilla, and the oak from the barrel. While my palate is growing, I can taste the hints of leather, pepper, fruit, and chocolate. The peppery rye, that boldness, attracted me as well. That flash of heat from the nose to the palate is an amazing several seconds with the first sip. The world of whiskey is unlike any other. Every whiskey has a different taste, a different proof, and a different finish. Many enjoy their whiskies to be around 90 proof, others in the 100 range. I prefer 100 proof or higher as I feel it delivers the "kick" from the expectation I get when I opened the bottle. The "Single Barrel" whiskies are simply in another class, where each bottle comes from an individual aging barrel to provide uniformity of color and taste. The first one that I experienced was the Jack Daniel's Single Barrel Barrel Proof, and came in at about 130 proof. Remember that the term "Barrel Proof" is different from "Single Barrel" and that will be discussed in the future. Here I was expecting pure gasoline, but this bottle was surprisingly smooth. There are many other single barrel products available, such as Four Roses, 1792, Henry McKenna, etc. One would have a much difficult time finding one that compares to the Jack Daniel's, especially for the $50 cost.

The last month has been pretty hectic for our group with the start of school along with high school sports. However, we have made it a point to get together, celebrate some birthdays, and enjoy some wonderful drinks. Aside from the Russell's Reserve Private Barrel that we highlighted last month, recent Andover Whiskey Society gatherings have included Knob Creek Rye, Jack Daniel's Single Barrel Rye, Jack Daniel's Bonded, George Dickel Chill Filtered Rye, Woodford Reserve Double Oaked, Broken Barrel Bourbon Whiskey, Jack Daniel's Bottled In Bond, Sagamore Spirit Rye, Knob Creek 12, Knob Creek 15, Evan Williams Bottled In Bond, Rebel Straight Rye Whiskey, and Jack Daniel's Single Barrel Select. We are anxiously waiting to open the Knob Creek 18 that we just picked up. We were fortunate to have a sample sent to us from friends in Arkansas and the 18 year blew it out of the sky! At 100 proof, there was zero heat for the thick, dark spirit. It was by far the drink of choice over the past month yet the 15 year was highly praised. The weather is turning colder here in NJ, which means more firepits, times with great friends, and lasting memories. Whiskey is meant to be shared, so don't be shy. My wife's uncle had been a strict beer drinker since I met him in 1994. Over the past year, I've introduced him to Bulleit, Woodford Reserve, Knob Creek, and Old Bardstown. Needless to say, he has come over to the "better" side. Get ready for Halloween and the Holidays but be sure to check back with us soon as we prepare to launch the Andover Whiskey Society YouTube Channel. Cheers and stay well!

All of us at the Andover Whiskey Society are big fans of Wild Turkey and Russell's Reserve. Near the end of 2021, Russell's Reserve produced a Single Barrel, or "Private Barrel" selection. We had been searching for this limited choice for many months, but to no avail. We looked all over the internet but every vendor was sold out. The thought of finding it here in NJ seemed a lost cause. A few times I thought I found a vendor, but even if they did have it in stock, they couldn't ship it to NJ. Last week, I stopped into ShopRite Wines & Spirits for a Labor Day party and low and behold, there was one bottle! ShopRite Wines & Spirits was one of the store picks and the search for the "Unicorn" ended. The bottle we purchased was aged nine years and was barrel #21-0632 from Warehouse F. We opened it that night and it was certainly different from any other Wild Turkey or Russell's Reserves we had prior. On the nose, you were hit with an abundance of fruits, and our group noted blackberry, licorice, and cherry. Amazingly, at 110 proof, there was no heat whatsoever. The dark berries really burst right in your mouth. While the initial search ended, we now yearn for another bottle, hoping to notice any differences from the warehouse locations. If you can find one, don't hesitate to purchase it as it was one of the top 5 bottles our group has enjoyed.

Thank you for visiting our website! Our group consists of everyday guys/husbands/dads that enjoy getting together and enjoying selected spirits. We hope you enjoy our social media posts. Contact us with any questions or comments you may have.