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One of the single barrel whiskeys offered from the Buffalo Trace distillery. Usually bottled between six and eight years of age, this is a robust whiskey with a rich vanilla kick. Although weighing in at 93 proof, this is certainly a sipping whiskey. Ice or soda would certainly compromise the long warm finish. JR

The introductory bottling from the envelope-pushing Bourboniers at Buffalo Trace distillery. A fairly young and grainy style with lots of vanilla and a touch of sweet smoke. Not as rye driven as some of the other Bourbons in their stable. This is the perfect introduction to Bourbon and the Buffalo Trace style or great for Bourbon drinkers who prefer a bit of sweetness. JR

Bulleit is a high rye style bourbon that finishes sweet and smooth. A fairly light style with no phenol alcohol and approximately six years of aging. Not the most rustic whiskey, and great for cocktails. JR

One of Heaven Hill's higher end offerings. The Elijah Craig packs tons of rye citrus and licorice smoke into an undervalued little package. I once had friends over for a bourbon tasting and dinner, and this was the first bottle emptied. JR

We all already know and love the Elijah Craig 12 year release, prepare for the 18! A broader and nuttier style whiskey with a long and smoky finish that is not light on the wood. More of the vanilla and rye citrus that we love in the twelve year old, except now longer and a bit more complex. Not to mention another fine deal from Heaven Hill. JR

Possibly the smoothest of all Bourbons. Maker's Mark is a "wheated" style bourbon, meaning that wheat is the dominate grain in the mash bill after corn. Wheat imparts sweeter and smoother flavors than the more rustic and spicy rye. Makers has a distinct Maraschino cherry liquor flavor that leaves a sweet toasty finish. Unique and utterly drinkable. JR

In 1990 Ardbeg resumed its production in earnest after a sleepy period in the 80s. This is a chance to try the malt after 18 years of rest in Bourbon barrels. The increased time brings about a creamy aspect and mellows the sharp peatiness of younger bottlings. There are definately some grilled meat aromas going on that juxtapose nicely against some raisin and prune fruits. Non-chill filtered to maintain all of the Whisky's nuances. Highly reccomended as a chance to taste a mature 18 year old Islay at a great price. 46% ABV JR

A limited edition Balvenie that shows a bit more sherry tones than the 12 year old double wood. This is a marriage of 12 year old sherry aged, bourbon aged, and neutral aged barrels. Definitely a must try for Balvenie fans, but be warned we only get a couple of cases every year. JR

The Balvenie 15 year old is a unique single-barrel Single Malt from the legendary Speyside region. Slowly aged in cool Scotland the ex-Bourbon barrel is left undisturbed until the "Malt Master" deems the cask ready. A beautiful example of the power that Speyside can achieve, braced with the casks touch of creamy honey. Each bottle is numbered, and each cask only produces up to 350 bottles. JR

Bruichladdich may be called the most exciting distillery on Islay, if not the whole country of Scotland. After a period of being closed, the distillery re-opened with a real focus on quality and head distiller Jim McEwan's innovative range of expressions. The 12 year old replaces the previous 10 year old as the core expression. In all reality the average age of this 2nd edition bottling is probably closer to 15 or 17 years of age. This is because age statements on the bottle must indicate the youngest malt contained within. In the 12 year bottling exclusively used Bourbon barrels are aged, which highlight the saline subtlety of the malt. No color is added and chill filtering is avoided. Instead of strong peat characteristics and smokey flavors, Bruichladdich focuses on elegance. JR

Perhaps the most elegant and balanced of Speyside malts. The dram is light with bright floral smells and a honeyed texture in the mouth. The finish has a touch of smoke balanced by bourbon barrel creaminess. Definitely an essential expression of Speyside, and an incredibly complex 12 year old. JR

From the peninsula of Campbeltown comes the historic Springbank. Campbeltown once was the thriving center of Scottish distillation, now Springbank is one of the few left. A truly artisanal operation that employs their own floor maltings. Springbank uses a light peating for a smokey island character. The malt is actually distilled two and a half times, so there is a lightness that when combined with the rugged terrain creates a complex scotch that is very unique. Most of the malt was raised in Bourbon barrels for a pure dry expression. JR