Neat Notes: A Journey Through Bourbon Country
A curated corner of vinyl on the rocks dedicated to one of my most cherished spirits – bourbon. This is not just another whiskey blog. No, Neat Notes is a chronicle, a shared journey through the vast and intriguing landscape of bourbon paired with the perfect melody.
I believe in the importance of savoring bourbon in its purest form - neat. No mixers, no ice, just pure, unadulterated bourbon. There's something profoundly satisfying about experiencing each layer of flavor as it was meticulously crafted to be.
Bourbon is an all-American spirit steeped in tradition and craft, but it is so much more than that. When you sit down with a glass of fine bourbon, you embark on a sensory journey that transcends mere tasting notes of caramel, vanilla, and oak.
In each sip, you'll find the warmth of a southern sunset, the coziness of a crackling fireplace, and the vigor of a lively country fair. It's an autumn afternoon wrapped in amber liquid, a savory blend of tradition and innovation. Drinking bourbon is as much a narrative experience as it is a sensory one.
An excellent bourbon doesn't merely rest on the tongue, it dances. It swirls and pirouettes, expressing itself in vibrant crescendos of flavor and delicate whispers of nuance. You'll taste the earthy vigor of grain, the rich decadence of dark chocolate, the heady bloom of wildflower honey, and the tart snap of orchard fruit. It echoes the sweetness of molasses on a lazy Sunday morning, the spicy prickle of clove in grandma's kitchen, and the comforting familiarity of freshly baked bread.
Beyond the swirl of sensory experiences, you'll find echoes of its history and craft. The toasted nuttiness speaks of corn grains, carefully harvested and milled. The hints of dark fruit and wine tell tales of the charred oak barrels in which the spirit has matured. The subtle hint of smoke narrates stories of the charring process, infusing the spirit with its signature color and character. The spicy kick of rye hints at the meticulous balance of grains in the mash bill.
Drinking bourbon isn't just about identifying individual flavors, but appreciating the harmonious symphony they create. It's about the interplay between bold and subtle, sweet and spicy, comforting and challenging. Each sip is a layered tapestry of sensory experiences, woven together with skill and patience.
From the legendary Kentucky bourbons that have shaped and defined the industry to the craft distilleries breaking new ground with innovative techniques and bold flavors, this journey will take us across the bourbon spectrum. I will delve into the histories of iconic distilleries, the craft and science behind the aging process, and the skillful art of tasting from the perspective of someone who simply loves to drink it.
However, this is more than just tasting notes and distillery histories. It's a community for bourbon lovers, by bourbon lovers. Each bottle of bourbon has a story, and each glass, a world of flavors waiting to be discovered by all. But these experiences are only enriched when shared. That's why I encourage all of you to engage in discussions, share your experiences, and let's learn from each other.
Every journey begins with a single step, or in our case, a single sip. So, put on your favorite album, pour yourself a glass of your favorite bourbon, sit back, and join me on this exciting journey.
Whether you're a bourbon connoisseur or a newcomer eager to explore, I look forward to sharing my love of bourbon with you.
Here's to the start of an amazing journey, to the beautiful music we will discover, to the shared appreciation of fine bourbon, and to the many neat notes we'll discover together. Let the bourbon journey begin. Cheers!
Here is a pairing that celebrates the heart of Austin, Texas - the Still Austin Cask Strength Bourbon (one of my favorites) and the legendary blues-rock album, "Texas Flood" by Stevie Ray Vaughan and Double Trouble.
Still Austin Cask Strength Bourbon
Straight from the heart of the Texas Hill Country, Still Austin Whiskey Co. is known for its dedication to a 100% grain-to-glass philosophy. All the grains used are sourced from local Texas farmers and everything from mashing, fermenting, distilling, barreling, and bottling takes place in Austin. I am in love with this brand as a whole and am excited to see where they go as they continue on their journey of amazing spirits!
Their Cask Strength Bourbon is a true representation of Still Austin's commitment to quality. Aged for a minimum of two years, this bourbon, high in proof, uncut, and unfiltered, presents a flavor profile that's rich and potent. It bursts with notes of caramel and vanilla, supplemented by darker undertones of chocolate and coffee, finishing with a touch of citrus and baking spice. I hope this flavor profile blows your mind as it did mine.
"Texas Flood" by Stevie Ray Vaughan and Double Trouble
In the realm of music, Austin's own Stevie Ray Vaughan and Double Trouble made waves in the blues-rock genre with their 1983 debut studio album, "Texas Flood". This album revitalized blues music during the 80s and placed Vaughan firmly in the ranks of the world's greatest blues guitarists.
"Texas Flood" brims with Vaughan's heartfelt and skillful guitar solos, backed by raw storytelling, representing the authenticity and power of Austin's music scene.
The Harmony
Both Still Austin Cask Strength Bourbon and "Texas Flood" embody the spirit and passion of Austin. As you sip the bourbon, let its rich, warming flavors amplify the emotional depth of Vaughan's blues numbers.
Start your musical and bourbon journey with the lively track, "Pride and Joy", which pairs beautifully with the bourbon's initial rush of caramel and vanilla. As you delve into the darker, deeper flavors of the bourbon, switch to the melancholic strains of the album's title track, "Texas Flood". The profound guitar solos and the layered complexities of the bourbon create a moving, multi-sensory experience.
Immerse yourself in this Austin-inspired pairing on Neat Notes, and let the blend of sound and spirit transport you through a journey that celebrates Austin's contributions to music and spirits. Here's to the soul of Austin, one note, one sip at a time.
I am crafting a connection between the well-regarded Weller Antique 107 Bourbon and the groundbreaking album, "Highway 61 Revisited" by Bob Dylan.
Weller Antique 107 Bourbon
The Weller name is a hallmark in the bourbon industry, closely associated with the Buffalo Trace Distillery and the legendary Pappy Van Winkle line. Weller Antique 107 is a favorite among bourbon connoisseurs due to its well-balanced profile and reasonable price point for a bourbon of its caliber.
The '107' in the name refers to its proof, indicating a robust bourbon with an assertive character. This whiskey, named after William Larue Weller, one of bourbon's early pioneers who preferred wheat to rye in the mash bill, delivers a sweeter, smoother taste.
Weller Antique 107 is recognized for its bold, full-bodied flavor. The palate is a complex blend of caramel, dark fruit, toasted oak, and a hint of cinnamon, which leads into a long and warming finish.
"Highway 61 Revisited" by Bob Dylan
In the music world, Bob Dylan needs no introduction. A prolific singer-songwriter, Dylan has profoundly influenced popular music and culture for over half a century.
Released in 1965, "Highway 61 Revisited" was a turning point in Dylan's career and in the music landscape. The album saw Dylan's transition from folk to rock, and features the hit single, "Like a Rolling Stone," which is often regarded as one of the greatest songs in the history of popular music.
The Harmony
The pairing of Weller Antique 107 and "Highway 61 Revisited" brings together two masterpieces with a rebellious edge. Both Dylan's album and Weller 107 were game-changers in their respective fields, challenging the norms of their time.
As you pour your Weller 107, start your auditory journey with "Like a Rolling Stone". The song's raw emotion pairs well with the bourbon's initial sweetness, while the layered composition reflects the spirit's complexity.
As you delve into the album, switch to tracks like "Tombstone Blues" and the title track "Highway 61 Revisited". The energy and depth of these tracks provide the perfect backdrop to the bourbon's bold, warming finish.
Experience the rebellious spirit of Weller Antique 107 and "Highway 61 Revisited" on Neat Notes. Let the sounds of Dylan's ground-breaking album and the tastes of the classic bourbon carry you through a journey of audacious creativity and craftsmanship. Here’s to exploring life off the beaten path, one note and one sip at a time.
I am tuning our senses to a harmonious pairing of the esteemed Eagle Rare Bourbon and the iconic album, "Rumours" by Fleetwood Mac.
Eagle Rare Bourbon
A revered name in the world of bourbon, Eagle Rare is a product of the Buffalo Trace Distillery, one of the oldest distilleries in the United States. The distillery is steeped in rich history dating back to the late 18th century and boasts of a legacy of resilient survival through events such as floods, fires, and Prohibition.
Eagle Rare is a 10-year-old bourbon that stands out with its balance of flavors and remarkably affordable price for its quality and age. The bourbon is known for its complex aromas of honey, leather, and dried fruit, followed by tastes of candied almonds and rich cocoa. Its finish is long and dry, punctuated with subtle hints of toffee.
"Rumours" by Fleetwood Mac
Fleetwood Mac, a British-American rock band, released their eleventh studio album, "Rumours", in 1977. The album became an instant classic and one of the best-selling albums of all time. It is regarded as a high point in rock music, notable for its harmonious blend of rock and pop.
"Rumours" came to life during a period of intense personal turmoil within the band. The raw emotion and personal experiences reflected in the album's tracks contribute to its timeless resonance with listeners.
The Harmony
Pairing Eagle Rare Bourbon with "Rumours" by Fleetwood Mac brings together two timeless classics, each offering a depth of character and a rich, layered experience.
As you pour your glass of Eagle Rare, begin your journey with the album's opening track, "Second Hand News". Its upbeat tempo sets the stage for the bourbon's initial sweet notes of honey and dried fruit.
As you explore the album further, switch to the emotionally charged tracks like "Dreams" and "Go Your Own Way". The complex relationship dynamics reflected in these songs enhance the bourbon's nuanced flavors of rich cocoa and candied almonds.
The intricate story-telling of "Rumours" and the Eagle Rare's long, dry finish resonates with the bittersweet ending of the album, closing out your sensory experience on a poignant note.
Discover the rich tapestry of emotion and flavor in this harmonious pairing on Neat Notes. Let the stirring tunes of Fleetwood Mac and the complex flavors of Eagle Rare guide you through a journey of depth and discovery, one note and one sip at a time.
I have handpicked an enchanting combination for you: the full-bodied E.H. Taylor Small Batch Bourbon dancing in harmony with the contemporary country classic, "Golden Hour" by Kacey Musgraves.
E.H. Taylor Small Batch Bourbon
Colonel Edmund Haynes Taylor Jr. is a legend in the world of bourbon, contributing numerous innovations to distilling practices in the late 19th century. The E.H. Taylor Bourbon, produced at the esteemed Buffalo Trace Distillery, is a testament to his spirit of excellence.
E.H. Taylor Small Batch Bourbon is a bottled-in-bond whiskey, a badge of quality that guarantees the bourbon's adherence to strict production standards. Aged in century-old warehouses, the bourbon delights with a rich and robust flavor profile. It starts with sweet notes of caramel and fruit, followed by a warming spice, culminating in a satisfying finish of toasted oak.
"Golden Hour" by Kacey Musgraves
Kacey Musgraves, with her fresh and unique approach to country music, has become one of the most exciting voices in the genre in the 21st century. Her third studio album, "Golden Hour", released in 2018, was lauded for its creativity and authenticity and stands as a testament to Musgraves's innovative songwriting.
"Golden Hour" was praised for its experimental sound, seamlessly blending traditional country with pop, folk, and disco. The album won several awards, including the Grammy for Album of the Year, marking a significant moment in Musgraves's career and country music history.
The Harmony
The collaboration of E.H. Taylor Small Batch Bourbon and "Golden Hour" is a delightful marriage of traditional roots and contemporary flair.
As you pour your glass of E.H. Taylor Small Batch, kick off your listening journey with the album's first track, "Slow Burn". This leisurely, introspective song mirrors the bourbon's initial sweetness, setting the mood for what's to come.
As you move through the album and the bourbon, let the layers unfold. The tracks "Butterflies" and "High Horse" pair well with the bourbon's spicy notes, bringing out its complexity.
Lastly, as you arrive at the bourbon's toasted oak finish, let the closing track "Rainbow" mirror this gentle ending. The song's message of hope and resilience leaves a warm, lasting impression, much like the bourbon's finish.
Join me for this lyrical and spirited adventure on Neat Notes. Let the soulful blend of E.H. Taylor Small Batch Bourbon and the dynamic sounds of "Golden Hour" take you through a memorable journey of discovery, one sip and one note at a time.
In this pairing, I delve into the deep, rich notes of Woodford Reserve Double Oaked and pair it with the melodic and soulful undertones of "Malibu" by Anderson .Paak.
Woodford Reserve Double Oaked
Woodford Reserve is a name steeped in history and dedication to the craft of bourbon making, produced in one of Kentucky’s oldest distilleries, a National Historic Landmark.
Woodford Reserve Double Oaked is a standout expression that goes through a double maturation process. Aged first in charred American white oak barrels and then in deeply toasted, lightly charred barrels, this bourbon bears a unique character. The double barrel process imparts a profound richness, yielding tasting notes of dark caramel, sweet oak, dried fruit, complemented by hints of honeyed apple, spice, and a robustly toasted undertone.
"Malibu" by Anderson .Paak
Anderson .Paak, an American singer, rapper, and producer, made waves in the music industry with his innovative blend of hip-hop, R&B, funk, and soul. His sophomore studio album, "Malibu", released in 2016, exemplifies this unique fusion and has been celebrated for its soulful soundscapes and lyrical depth.
"Malibu" earned Paak a Grammy nomination and recognition for his artful blend of live instrumentation, captivating songwriting, and soulful vocals. It has become a cornerstone of modern soul music, demonstrating Paak's remarkable versatility and creative vision.
The Harmony
The pairing of Woodford Reserve Double Oaked and "Malibu" creates a harmonious blend of depth, richness, and soulful expressiveness.
Begin your tasting and listening experience with the opening track, "The Bird", an introspective song that matches the bourbon's dark caramel and oak notes. Its mellow rhythm is the perfect accompaniment to your first sips.
As you navigate through the bourbon's complex flavors, let tracks like "Am I Wrong" and "Room in Here" accentuate its depth. These soulful, rhythm-rich songs complement the bourbon's richly toasted undertone and the subtleties of its honeyed apple and spice notes.
Finally, as you savor the bourbon's lingering finish, let the closing track "The Dreamer" resonate with this satisfying conclusion. The song's uplifting and hopeful tone mirrors the fulfilling, complex finish of this fine bourbon.
Join me on this musical and spirited journey. Allow the rich depth of Woodford Reserve Double Oaked and the soulful tones of "Malibu" to guide you through an unforgettable exploration, one sip and one note at a time.
This is all about harmonizing the exquisite Joseph Magnus Bourbon with the classic and expressive "Continuum" album by the talented John Mayer.
Joseph Magnus Bourbon
Joseph A. Magnus & Co. carries a history that predates prohibition, with its devotion to superior craftsmanship still alive today. The contemporary Joseph Magnus Bourbon is a tribute to this timeless legacy.
Joseph Magnus Bourbon distinguishes itself through a unique triple cask finishing process, involving sherry and cognac casks after the initial bourbon barrel maturation. This extraordinary bourbon offers a robust, balanced flavor profile. Tasting notes include typical bourbon flavors of caramel and vanilla, subtly layered with notes of fig, citrus, dark chocolate, and a hint of spice.
"Continuum" by John Mayer
John Mayer, a well-known American singer-songwriter and guitarist, released "Continuum", his third studio album, in 2006. The album has since gained a reputation for its introspective lyrics, blues-influenced sound, and Mayer's impressive guitar work.
"Continuum" incorporates elements of blues, soul, and pop, reflecting Mayer's growth as an artist. Celebrated songs like "Waiting on the World to Change", "Gravity", and "Slow Dancing in a Burning Room" showcase Mayer's talent for crafting deeply emotional music and insightful lyrics.
The Harmony
Pairing Joseph Magnus Bourbon with "Continuum" brings together two beautifully complex and introspective creations.
Begin your sensory journey by tasting the rich, layered flavors of Joseph Magnus Bourbon while listening to "Waiting on the World to Change". The song's soulful vibes resonate with the bourbon's rich caramel and vanilla notes.
As you delve deeper into the album and bourbon, let tracks like "Gravity" and "The Heart of Life" enhance your experience. These emotional songs echo the bourbon's dark chocolate and fig undertones, providing a melodic backdrop to your tasting journey.
Finally, as you savor the lingering finish of the bourbon, let the closing track "I'm Gonna Find Another You" mirror this satisfying end. Its bluesy melody and heartfelt lyrics align with the bourbon's complex, lingering finish.
Join me for this intimate journey of taste and sound. Allow the complex flavors of Joseph Magnus Bourbon and the soulful melodies of "Continuum" to guide you through a remarkable sensory exploration, one sip and one note at a time.
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