In Episode 25 of The Bourbon Playbook, we’re sipping something bold: Chestnut Farms Single Barrel at a fiery 125 proof. It’s barrel strength, hard to find, and wrapped in mystery—no farm, no age statement, just big Barton 1792 flavor and Total Wine exclusivity.

We also pour this week's drams out to the 151st Kentucky Derby, where every horse was a descendant of the GOAT—Secretariat. Does bourbon and the Derby go hand and hand? Join us for fun facts, banter and takes on this year's Derby winner who won't be chasing the Triple Crown.

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This week, we're pouring Blend No. 40—aka Traveller Whiskey—a smooth, award-winning collab from Buffalo Trace and Grammy-winner Chris Stapleton. But is it just a celebrity cash-in or a legit daily dram? We break it down with tasting notes, awards cred, and whether this 90-proof blend hits the right notes,

Before the pour, we riff on Shedeur Sanders’ NFL Draft slide, Mel Kiper's meltdown, and more! Join the conversation by visiting tbplaybook.com.

This week, we dive into the story of Barrell Craft Spirits, where a tech entrepreneur turned a barrel tasting into a bourbon empire. No stills, No chill filtering. No distilling whatsoever. Just bold, high-proof blends sourced from over 65 distilleries worldwide.

Join us we cover Barrell’s playbook, their new $2.4 million rickhouse, and taste a cherry-loaded single barrel pick that borders on precious.

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In this week's episode, the guys pour a bold Memphis-born bourbon with blues in its soul. From its high-rye mash bill to its wild backstory — including a warehouse collapse that turned into a fan-favorite release — the guys explore why this $30 bottle is punching way above its weight class.

Hosts Ryan O'Leary and Mike Zika cover Blue Note Juke Joint, pour one out to Rory McIlroy's gut-wrenching Masters win, and reveal why this small batch bourbon has been raking in national awards.

In this week’s pour, we’re diving deep into the story of a modern bourbon powerhouse: Bardstown Bourbon Company. What started as a contract distillery quietly crafting premium bourbon for over 30 other brands has transformed into one of the most innovative and transparent producers in the game.

We rewind to 2014 to trace Bardstown’s bold mission to become the “Napa Valley of Bourbon,” unpack the unique DNA behind their Origin Series High Wheat Bourbon, and break down why this six-year, wheated gem is earning rave reviews at just over $50 a bottle.

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In this week's edition of The Bourbon Playbook, the guys explore the unique connection between the beer- and whiskey-making process, and uncover a famous Midwest brewery famous for turning its famous stout into a legendary pour of brown juice!

Join hosts Ryan O'Leary and Mike Zika for new episodes every Tuesday, and be sure to drop the guys a dram at tbplaybook.com.

On this week's episode of the pod, the guys put a highly sought-after toasted barrel bourbon under the microscope. It’s got the accolades, the cult following and a flavor profile that promises toasted marshmallow heaven… but does it deliver?

Hosts Ryan O'Leary and Mike Zika break down the history, the hype, and the hot takes from the internet—because not every unicorn bottle is a golden pour.

Check us out and drop us a dram at tbplaybook.com.

This week, join us as we dive into a bourbon that carries the name of a true American firebrand. From frontier distillers to tax revolts, hosts Ryan O'Leary and Mike Zika uncover the story of a man who stood against the system, only to become a legend in the process. But does the bourbon named in his honor live up to the hype?

The guys break down the origins of this cask-strength pour, explore its mysterious sourcing, and put it to the test on the Essential 5 (E5) Scale. Is this bourbon Hype or Hogwash? Pour a glass and join Mike and Ryan as they sip, debate, and decide! 🥃🔥

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