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The Bourbon RoadAuthor: The Bourbon Road
The Bourbon Road is two friends sharing pours and good stories with interesting guests. Each week we sip on bourbon while talking with celebrities, musicians, chefs, authors, industry experts and everyone in between. If bourbon makes it better... or even the other way around, then we want to talk about it. Language: en Genres: Arts, Food, Society & Culture Contact email: Get it Feed URL: Get it iTunes ID: Get it Trailer: |
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475. The Wrath of Todd: Tasting the Harden's Creek Trio
Episode 475
Tuesday, 23 December, 2025
Jim and Todd return to the Bourbon Road bar for a sequel to their recent Jim Beam tasting, dubbing this episode "The Wrath of Todd" With the holiday season in full swing, the hosts settle in for a sample show dedicated to exploring the impact of warehouse location—or "terroir"—on whiskey. While there are no live guests in the studio, the episode features a special drop-in from friend of the show Drew Hannush (host of Whiskey Lore), who shares details about his massive new travel guide, Experiencing American Whiskey, a resource covering over 1,000 distilleries across the United States. The main event focuses on the Harden's Creek Kentucky Series, a trio of limited-edition Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskeys from the James B. Beam Distilling Co. This unique experiment showcases three liquids that share the same mash bill, were distilled at the same time, aged for the same 11 years, and bottled at the same 110 proof. The only variable? The specific warehouse where they matured. The flight begins with The Mushroom, aged in Warehouse R. Known for being a single-story rackhouse with no windows, this "dungeon-like" environment sits close to the ground, creating a cool, consistent temperature. Jim and Todd find this expression earthy and savory, picking up notes of black pepper, mixed nuts, and a distinct lack of sweetness compared to typical Beam profiles. It offers a fascinating, funky character that lives up to its name. Next, they travel to Warehouse W for The Beaver. Situated near a creek in a low-lying, humid area, this warehouse allows for more interaction between the wood and the whiskey. The hosts immediately notice a brighter profile, detecting notes of green apple, cinnamon, and a rich "caramel apple" sweetness that coats the palate. It presents a classic, comforting bourbon profile with a surprising amount of fruitiness. Finally, they ascend to the top of Warehouse G for The Owl. This towering nine-story rickhouse exposes the barrels to significant temperature fluctuations and airflow. The result is the darkest pour of the three, delivering deep, intense flavors. Todd identifies this as his "jam," praising its rich notes of black cherry, deep oak, and wood spice that venture into "Booker's territory." It's a bold, heavy hitter that stands in stark contrast to the lighter, earthier expressions. Throughout the episode, Jim and Todd debate the nuances of each pour, marveling at how identical distillates can diverge so wildly based solely on where they sit. They wrap up the show with a difficult "Winner Winner Chicken Dinner" ranking, trying to decide which warehouse reigned supreme. Be sure to check out our private Facebook group, "The Bourbon Roadies" for a great group of bourbon loving people. You will be welcomed with open arms!
