Simple Times Mixers Introduces New Products - Old Fashioned and Lavender + Lemon Cocktail Syrups

Columbus-based Simple Times Mixers has unveiled two exciting new cocktail syrups, just in time for the holidays. Known for their ultra-premium, all-natural cocktail mixers, Simple Times continues to impress with sustainable practices and high-quality ingredients. Their latest offerings, Old Fashioned and Lavender + Lemon syrups, are crafted using upcycled lemon and orange peels from fresh, in-house juiced fruit.

With a price of just $15.99 per bottle, each syrup can create up to 32 cocktails—perfect for entertaining or gifting this holiday season.

• Old Fashioned: Made with nothing artificial, this syrup combines the highest quality Demerara sugar, fresh orange peel, real cinnamon, cardamom, clove and a mix of high-end bitter roots. Combine a quarter ounce of syrup with two ounces of your favorite bourbon for an Old Fashioned made at home in less than 15 seconds.
• Lavender + Lemon: Full of real lavender and fresh lemon peels, shake with two ounces of vodka or gin for the easiest and freshest Lavender Martini.

OHLQ Announces 2024 Single Barrel Saturday - November 16 @ 9am

Ohio Liquor has announces this year's Single Barrel Saturday will be November 16, 2024, at 9:00 A.M., and will feature more than 150 barrels available at more than 200 locations statewide. This year's event is moved up a few weeks as it happened December 9th last year. 

Jeptha Creed Distillery Unveils Red, White & Blue Bourbon Batch Three

Jeptha Creed, the Kentucky craft distillery owned by a mother-daughter duo Joyce and Autumn Nethery, offering a range of award-winning spirits, proudly announces the launch of its third batch of Red, White & Blue Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey. Developed to show appreciation for current and past military members, a portion of the proceeds will be donated to the non-profit organization CreatiVets.

OHLQ 2024 Autumn Bottle Lottery Announced - Starting October 21

In a change from previous years, the annual State of Ohio Pappy lottery has been moved up from Winter to Autumn for 2024. The 2024 Autumn Bottle Lottery consists of the very sought after Buffalo Trace brands, including multiple ages of Pappy Van Winkle (more details below). Entries will be accepted for the lottery beginning at 12:01 A.M. on October 21, 2024. All entries must be submitted by 11:59 P.M. on October 28, 2024.

Exclusive Raffle: Win a Fireside Chat and more with Julian Van Winkle III - Benefiting the Brain Injury Alliance of Kentucky

Here’s your opportunity to win an exciting Bourbon Experience with Julian Van Winkle III. Your $100.00 chance benefits the Brain Injury Alliance of Kentucky. The winner will be drawn at this year’s Brain Ball on Friday, November 15. You do not need to be present to win. Get more details below! 

OHLQ 2024 Summer Bottle Lottery Recap

The Ohio Department of Liquor (OHLQ) has posted the results of the 2024 Summer Bottle Lottery Winners. Sadly, I kept my losing streak alive and didn't win 😞. 

Ohio Division of Liquor Control (OHLQ) Announces 2024 Summer Bottle Lottery - August 12 (Today) - Link to enter below

The Ohio Division of Liquor Control (OHLQ) has announced the 2024 Summer Bottle Lottery. This lottery includes:

• HEAVEN HILL HERITAGE 2024 COLLECTION - $299.99 (PLUS TAX) - 4037B
• ROCK HILL FARMS SINGLE BARREL BOURBON – $65.00 (PLUS TAX) - 5338B
• WELLER SINGLE BARREL - $55.98 (plus tax) - 9528B

OPENS: Monday, August 12, at 12:01 a.m.

CLOSES: Monday, August 19, at 11:59 p.m.

You can enter here. Best of luck to everyone. 

Watershed Distillery, in Partnership with OHLQ, to Release Six Limited Single Barrels

Watershed Distillery, in partnership with Ohio Liquor (OHLQ), has announced its annual exclusive single-barrel release collaboration and invites Ohio bourbon lovers to collect a winning hand. Together, the teams at Watershed Distillery and OHLQ have handpicked six exceptional single-barrel selections. These expressions will start hitting shelves at select OHLQ locations across the state beginning on June 25. This Ohio-only limited release is available while supplies last.  

OHLQ Announces Russel's Reserve and Wild Turkey Release for Father's Day - June 15

The Ohio Division of Liquor Control (OHLQ) has announced a Russell's Reserve and Wild Turkey release for Father's Day on June 15 at 9:00am at select retailers. The stores will be announced prior to the release on June 15 at the OHLQ website. For this release, the State has procured 11 barrels of Russell’s Reserve Private Selection Bourbon ($69.99 + tax) and 4 barrels of Wild Turkey Rye Private Barrel Selection ($79.99 + tax).

Wild Turkey Opens Modernized Visitor Center Called 'The Jimmy Russell Wild Turkey Experience'

Wild Turkey Distilling Co., the award-winning distillery known for its iconic bold Kentucky bourbon, today announces the opening of the Jimmy Russell Wild Turkey Experience. This newly renovated visitor center, named in honor of the legendary master distiller, embodies the brand's deep-rooted commitment to Kentucky hospitality. The destination, set to attract bourbon aficionados worldwide to Wild Turkey Hill, is now open for public tours and tastings and represents a significant step in the ongoing expansion of the Wild Turkey campus.

Michter's Announces 2024 Release Of 10 Year Rye

For the first time since becoming the first American whiskey to be named the World's Most Admired Whiskey, Michter's will be releasing its acclaimed 10 Year Kentucky Straight Rye. The release is a single barrel product bottled from stocks over ten years old that have been selected by Michter's production team.

OHLQ Announces Four Roses Private Selection Barrel Strength - May 11 @ 9am Only

The Ohio Division of Liquor Control (OHLQ) has announced 13 barrels worth of Four Roses Private Selection Barrel Strength hitting stores for one day only on May 11 at 9am at select locations for a price of $99.99 + tax. This is the same as a release last year, but the price has jumped $25 (or 33%).

OHLQ Announces George Dickel 15 Year Single Barrel Exclusives - Arriving Week of April 29

The Ohio Division of Liquor Control (OHLQ) has announced 11 barrels worth of George Dickel 15 Year Single Barrel hitting stores starting today (April 29) for a price of $69.99 + tax. 

Jeptha Creed Distillery Launches 6-Year Wheated Bourbon

Jeptha Creed, a women-owned craft distillery offering a range of award-winning craft spirits, proudly announces the launch of its 6-Year Wheated Bourbon. Known for the ground-to-glass maxim, the Jeptha Creed family farm grows renowned Bloody Butcher Corn, a non-GMO heirloom varietal that imparts a uniquely sweet yet nutty flavor profile to Jeptha Creed’s diverse and growing portfolio.

Got a Few Extra $1000's Sitting Around... Woodford Has The Junk For You!!!

Woodford Reserve is commemorating the 150th running of the Kentucky Derby with several unnecessary and overpriced commodities! The first being the Woodford Reserve Baccarat Edition, which is a Cognac cask finished American Whiskey, aged in handcrafted couture barrels seasoned in the Kentucky Derby Winner's Circle at Churchill Downs®, and is presented in stunning Baccarat crystal. 

In their words, this is 'a unique and extraordinary expression of American Whiskey for the low price of $15,000 + tax.'

Bulleit Frontier Whiskey 12-Year-Old Rye returns after five years

After five years, a 2019 San Francisco World Spirits Competition Gold Medal, and a clamor of requests from bartenders and fans alike, Bulleit Frontier Whiskey is announcing the return of its 12-Year-Old American Straight Rye Whiskey.

Watershed Distillery Releases Batch 002 of Uncut Unfiltered Bourbon

Watershed Distillery announces the release of batch 002 of Uncut Unfiltered Bourbon. The release will be available at the distillery and select Ohio liquor stores beginning on April 10. 

This rare bourbon spends over four years in barrels until it is ready to be bottled without added water or filtration. Uncork each bottle to find exactly what was in the barrel—bourbon that is untouched, unbothered, uncut, and unfiltered.

Ohio Division of Liquor Control (OHLQ) Announces 2024 Spring Bottle Lottery - Starting April 8 (Today) - Link to enter below

The Ohio Division of Liquor Control (OHLQ) has announced the Spring 2024 Bottle Lottery. The 2022 Spring Bottle Lottery had 55,272 entries for 966 total bottles available (1.748% odds of winning). I would expect this year to have at least as many entries. 

OHLQ Announces One Day Release - Elijah Craig Private Barrel Barrel Proof and Old Fitzgerald Bottled-in-Bond 8-Year - 3/29

The Ohio Division of Liquor Control (OHLQ) has announced a bonus release of an exclusive selection of Elijah Craig Private Barrel Barrel Proof, as well as a limited supply of Old Fitzgerald Bottled-in-Bond 8-Year. These products will be released at 9:00 a.m. at select OHLQ locations and will be available until sold out.

OHLQ Announces Jack Daniels and Knob Creek Single Barrel Exclusives - Arriving Week of March 25

The Ohio Division of Liquor Control (OHLQ) has announced single barrel selections from Jack Daniels and Knob Creek hitting stores starting today (March 25). 

Penelope Announces 2024 Edition of 'Rio' - Finished in American Honey and Amburana

Looking for a carnival in a bottle? Penelope Rio is set to deliver. Arriving on shelf in March, Penelope Rio will be available at a suggested retail price of $89.99 per 750-ml bottle. This year's installment will have a limited allocation of 5,000 (6-in) cases.

Woodford Announces 2024 Kentucky Derby Bottle Design

In one of my favorite annual traditions, Woodford Reserve has announced the design of their 2024 commemorative Kentucky Derby bottle. This year’s special release features the artwork of Kentucky native Wylie Caudill, known for his bold, repetitive patterns, and his signature roses.

Buzzard’s Roost Launches New Customer Loyalty Program

Buzzard’s Roost Sipping Whiskey is spreading its wings to embrace its flock of whiskey fans with an exciting new customer loyalty program.

As a Buzzard’s Roost Ambuzzador, members will receive perks that will include:

• An exclusive lapel pin and loyalty card entitling them to a complimentary experience at the Buzzard’s Roost Whiskey Row Experience after the purchase of any six bottles Buzzard’s Roost whiskey
• Early access to purchase new whiskey releases at Whiskey Row Experience
• Invitations to special tastings with Buzzard’s Roost Co-founders Judy Hollis Jones, Jason Brauner and Master Distiller Ethan Spalding
• Opportunities to participate in barrel picks for exclusive Ambuzzadors Single Barrel Whiskeys

Old Forester Releases 117 Series: High Angels' Share

Old Forester today releases High Angels' Share, an expression from its celebrated 117 series.  

This limited-edition whiskey is the result of low-yield barrels, providing consumers with a taste of this specific facet of the aging process, and resulting in a rich, layered concentration.

Bottled at 110 proof (55% ABV) in a 375 ml bottle, the expression is full-bodied with dark flavor notes, dried fruits and herbaceous qualities. 

Maker's Mark to Recognize 'Spirited Women' with Personalized, Limited-Edition Label

Maker's Mark, the iconic handmade Kentucky bourbon, today announced its support of Vital Voices, a leading nonprofit investing in female leaders taking on the world's greatest challenges, with a limited-edition label designed by renowned artist Gayle Kabaker. In honor of Women's History Month, consumers are invited to order the complimentary Maker's Mark label at makersmarkpersonalize.com and personalize it with the name of an inspirational woman in their lives.

Heaven's Door Spirits Announces 'The Exploration Series'

Heaven's Door Spirits proudly announces The Exploration Series. This latest collection of limited expressions continues to redefine premium craft whiskey. Led by Master Distiller Ken Pierce and Master Blender Alex Moore, Heaven's Door persistently strives to innovate with new finishing methods for a unique collection of limited-time offerings, enriching the whiskey experience.

The Glenlivet Announces Rum and Bourbon Fusion Cask Selection

The Glenlivet, the iconic Speyside single malt Scotch whisky, today announced the addition of The Glenlivet Rum and Bourbon Fusion Cask Selection to its portfolio of award-winning single malt Scotch whiskies. A category-first innovation, the new expression offers an elevated, one-of-a-kind taste experience by selectively finishing1 The Glenlivet's iconic single malt Scotch whisky in bespoke casks that are uniquely crafted by fusing dismantled rum and bourbon barrels. The launch of The Glenlivet Fusion Cask Rum comes as the #1 single malt scotch whisky2 brand continues to challenge conventions and set new standards of excellence within the single malt category.

Woodford Announces Batch Proof 2024 Edition: 121.2 Proof

Batch Proof is a celebration of Woodford Reserve’s proprietary process – blending barrels into a batch and then bottling the whiskey at its actual proof, straight from the barrel. Batch Proof is crafted using the same grain bill and process as Woodford Reserve Kentucky Straight Bourbon. The 2024 edition is 121.2 Proof.

Batch Proof, however, takes Woodford Reserve’s trademark flavor range of sweet vanilla and toasted oak to a whole new level offering consumers the privilege of tasting Woodford Reserve in its purest form (and not the standard 90.4 for which Woodford is known).

OHLQ Announces OKI and Crown Royal Exclusives - Arriving Week of January 29

The Ohio Division of Liquor Control (OHLQ) has announced single barrel selections from O.K.I. and Crown Royal. The expressions are O.K.I. Single Barrel Bourbon ($79.99 + tax), O.K.I. Single Barrel Rye ($79.99 + tax), and Crown Royal Hand Selected Barrel ($54.99 + tax). 

Old Forester Announces 1924

Old Forester® announces the newest release in its coveted and award-winning Whiskey Row Series – 1924. This 10-year-old age-stated bourbon is 100 proof and comprises a new mash bill for the brand.

Angel's Envy Announces Cellar Collection Series Volumes 1-3

Angel's Envy, the Louisville-based distiller that produces finished whiskeys, today announces Cellar Collection Series Volumes 1-3. This exclusive release showcases three 375ml bottles from the highly acclaimed Cellar Collection, each featuring Angel's Envy Kentucky Straight Bourbons finished in distinctive fortified wine casks. The Cellar Collection Series includes Angel's Envy Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey Finished in Oloroso Sherry Casks, Angel's Envy Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey Finished in Tawny Port Wine Barrels, and Angel's Envy Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey Finished in Madeira Casks. It is the first time any whiskey from the Cellar Collection has been rereleased to the public.

OHLQ Announces 2023 Winter Bottle Lottery Winners

The Ohio Department of Liquor (OHLQ) has posted the results of the 2023 Winter Bottle Lottery Winners. Sadly, I kept my losing streak alive and didn't win 😞. 

Buffalo Trace and Chris Stapleton Introduce Traveller Whiskey

Sazerac owned Buffalo Trace has announced a new blended whiskey that was produced under the supervision of Buffalo Trace Distillery's Master Distiller Harlen Wheatley in collaboration with Chris Stapleton.

December 2023 Month-and-Year-in-Review

Welcome to the December 2023 Columbus Bourbon recap. As always, A big thank you to all my readers! As a friendly reminder, follow ColumbusBourbon on Facebook. 

Fiona Showing off her Christmas Present

This month I posted 5 articles. The site saw 10,768 page-views, down 12% from the 12,256 views in November of 2023.

For the year, the site saw 142,890 pageviews, up 23.65% from 2022. 

The most popular posts were:

1. A Guide to Getting Hard to Find Bottles in Ohio (6.9k)
2. A Look Inside 'No Soliciting', A Private Bourbon Bar in Columbus, Ohio (4.05k)
3. How Much Bourbon Evaporates Over Time? (1.32k)
4. May the Odds Be Ever in Your Favor (718)
5. Blade and Bow Review (634)