Saturday night’s college football slate ended with a really interesting game, as a pair of 3-0 teams faced off in Provo. The 18th-ranked Kansas State Wildcats traveled to take on BYU, which was unranked. You might not have known that through the first 2.5 quarters of the game, though, as the Cougars were the more physically imposing team, rode a couple of Wildcat turnovers to a 17-6 halftime lead, then came out for the third quarter and remained in control of the game.
After BYU forced a pick on Kansas State’s first drive of the third, the Cougar offense only needed two plays to score. And not long after, they managed to score again, only this time, it was their special teams that got the job done, as Parker Kingston had reservations for six after a 90-yard punt return. That horribly undersells the job Kingston did, get a load of this:
That went from a disaster to a miracle, as he made multiple Kansas State players missed him, went one side of the field to the other, and took off. There were some concerns that he dropped the ball before he crossed the plane of the end zone, but that got looked at and it was determined he was fine. It’s easily one of the best punt returns I’ve ever seen, although there was a downside for Kingston: Running this much made him lose his lunch on the sideline after he scored.
Shedeur Sanders and the Colorado Buffaloes entered Saturday night looking to get their first win in Big 12 play on the season when they welcomed Baylor into Boulder for a battle of 2-1 teams that both needed this game in their quest for bowl eligibility.
It looked like Baylor was going to come out on top for most of the game, as they led by 14 at the half and took a 7-point lead late in the fourth quarter. However, after hooking a field goal wide left that would’ve put them up 10, Baylor gave Colorado an opening to tie the game and force overtime. It looked unlikely, but Shedeur Sanders (who once again spent more of the game taking hits and sacks than Colorado would like) was able to break the pocket on the last possession and fire a Hail Mary pass to LaJohntay Wester, who somehow found enough space to haul it in with no Baylor defenders even making a decent play on the ball.
I have no idea what 24’s plan was, standing 8 yards deep in the end zone, but he couldn’t close fast enough on the ball to make a play and Wester was able to get free from his defender, who couldn’t keep his footing on a change of direction, with Wester getting his arms under the ball for the unbelievable game-tying touchdown.
In overtime, Colorado scored on the first possession and Baylor quickly marched inside the five where it looked like they’d find an answer. Instead, Travis Hunter created a turnover when he was able to jar loose the ball at the goal line as Baylor was going in for the tying score, with the ball going through the end zone for a touchback to end the game.
It was an absolutely wild finish to the game that saw both of Colorado’s big stars, Sanders and Hunter, get their fingerprints on the two biggest plays of the game and lift the Buffaloes to 3-1 on the season.
In 2025, Questlove will flex his award-winning creativity by directing a documentary surrounding the iconic music group, Earth Wind & Fire. Today (September 21), Questlove took to his Instagram to announce the new.
“Coming in 2025…..the definitive story of the elements,” he wrote. “The story of how a band led by a genius from Chicago changed our way of thinking, our minds and our hearts. Having been baptized in the afrocentric joy river of this powerhouse unit, I’ve learned about them, I’ve learned about us & more importantly I’ve learned about and rediscovered myself in the process.”
Although Questlove hasn’t revealed any additional details surrounding the project (including title, release date, creative direction, etc.), he did express his gratitude to be leading the charge. “I’m so excited to be directing a documentary preserving their positive but VERY vulnerable and real story of soul, self & struggle,” he wrote. “This is the story of joy, persistence, love, pain, magic and self discovery. This is Earth, Wind & Fire.”
According to Nicki Minaj, Jay-Z never paid her for their business deal involving his former streaming platform, Tidal. Yesterday (September 20), during an appearance on The Pivot Podcast, record executive Steve Stoute claimed that wasn’t the full story as she “never signed the paperwork” sent to her. Now, Nicki Minaj has slammed Steve Stoute for inserting himself into the matter while providing more details about the highly publicized deal.
“Every day a new man pushing 60 years of age gets fingered in the bussy then made to come on this internet & lie on me,” she wrote. “God is in control. Bookmark this. I’d advise y’all to never mention my name again.”
She then shared insight regarding reports that she received a payment after the streamer was purchased. “I received a call advising Tidal was sold, and they made no money on the deal so all they could offer me was a million dollars,” she wrote. “But wait, there’s more. The lawyer advised that Desirat advised him that I HAD TO SIGN THE AGREEMENT IN 24 HOURS IF I WANTED THE $1M or the ‘offer’ was off the table. Listen to the end of “Fractions” for what my response was.”
Nicki also reposted a clip (viewable here) of Cam’Ron and Mase where they made a similar claim about reports that they entered a partnership with Fanatics, another venture linked to Jay-Z.
Watch the full episode of The Pivot Podcast featuring Steve Stoute above.
As a travel writer and creator who has visited all 50 states and nearly every US National Park solo at least once, I’m often asked what my favorite destinations are or where I would choose to go back to over and over. Always at the top of that list is Sedona, Arizona.
I’ve visited Sedona over a half-dozen times – three times just in the past 12 months. So trust me when I say it is special. Maybe it’s the vortexes the area is famous for, the red rocks, the hundreds of hiking trails, great wine, luxurious accommodations, or the sunsets that feel more vibrant and energetic than anywhere else – but once you step foot in this outdoor mecca, it feels special.
Emily Hart
On my latest visit – while celebrating my birthday – I stayed at the Sedona resort that has long been on my bucket list: Enchantment. Tucked away in the grand and impressive Boynton Canyon, from the moment the gate attendant greeted me, I felt like I was in another world – a better world. From each staff member greeting me by name (and offering me birthday wishes!) to hiking straight from the property, sitting in a hot tub with a surrounding landscape that felt like it must have been crafted by AI, to a private mountain biking lesson that pushed my limits while the experienced guide kept me feeling completely as ease – this property is special. Here is why I love it and why you will, too.
WHY IT’S AWESOME:
Emily Hart
Many things make Enchantment Resort awesome, but the greatest draw for me is its access to the surrounding canyon. Situated just outside of town, as the only lodging in the popular Boynton Canyon, guests can access some of Sedona’s most popular hiking and mountain biking trails directly from the resort – which is unlike any other property. Visitors can easily hike into Boynton Canyon, up into the popular Subway Cave, Kachina Woman Vortex, and bike to Fay Canyon without worrying about getting in the car.
And when you’re not on the trails, the property is simply magical. With towering red rocks surrounding in all directions, every room has a private outdoor balcony, access to pools, great restaurants, outdoor guides, and attentive staff.
IN-HOUSE FOOD AND DRINK:
Emily Hart
Enchantment is the sort of resort visitors never have to leave if they don’t choose to. And a big part of that is having several dining options on-site. From a juice bar and in-room dining to a market and casual and fine dining, you won’t get sick of the same menu items here.
Che Ah Chi
For fine dining at Enchantment, head to Che Ah Chi – which literally translates to “red rocks.” The stylish dining room with floor-to-ceiling windows looking out at the canyon serves upscale American cuisine with local inspiration. I spent my birthday dinner dining at Che Ah Chi, where I enjoyed a Fire Flower margarita made with Chipotle-Infused Tequila, Hibiscus, and Lime, followed by Pan Seared Branzino and incredible bread service paired with prickly pear butter.
Tii Gavo
The more casual Tii Gavo serves Southwestern fare with the same incredible views and service you’ll come to expect at Enchantment. Meaning “gathering place,” the restaurant has a beautiful dining room, fire pit, and outdoor space. I loved the Tavern Burger with grass-fed Wagyu Beef, aged cheddar, bread & butter pickles, lettuce, tomato, and Tajin spiced shoestring fries on the side. As a birthday gift, they sent me back to my room with a piece of red velvet birthday cake, candle included.
Hummingbird at Mii amo
Enchantment sister property – conveniently just across the street and behind the same gates – is the destination all-inclusive spa Mii amo. As a guest at Enchantment, you can access several of Mii amo’s amenities – including their new restaurant, Hummingbird. The space is light and airy, and the food is as well. Utilizing produce from the Chef’s Garden on-site and local orchards, the food is eclectic and focused on well-being. I enjoyed breakfast with a view at Hummingbird, with a classic two-egg breakfast. Be sure to head into the adjacent Juice Bar for a morning juice or a glass of wine at night.
The Market
For a coffee, pastry, sandwich, beer, or wine, head to The Market at Enchantment. I picked up a can of wine to enjoy after a long hike on the patio and a snack to enjoy during it.
AMENITIES:
Emily Hart
Included with the daily resort fee:
Mii amo Morning Ritual
Mii amo Evening Meditation
Stargazing with an astronomer on Tuesdays and Saturdays
Pickleball Court Access & Paddles
Access to Members-Only Seven Canyons Golf Club, Shuttle & Dining
Access to Mii amo Fitness & Movement Studios
Mii amo labyrinth walk
Access to expert Trail House Adventure Advisors
Parking
Wi-Fi
Tennis Court Access & Racquets
Heated pool
In-room dining
Exclusive Access to Boynton Canyon Trails
ROOM TYPES:
Emily Hart
Enchantment Resort has 218 guestrooms and suites, all with private outdoor space and canyon views.
Casitas
The casita-level accommodations offer guest rooms, studios, and junior suites with a King bed or double queen. Casita studios and junior suites offer fireplaces and seating areas. I stayed in a junior King suite, which was the perfect size, with a massive bathroom with shower and soaking tub, luxurious robes, turndown service, Nespresso machine, and an iPad to order room service or request amenities at any time easily.
One and Two Bedroom Suites
For a larger group, one and two-bedroom suites are on the property and can sleep up to 10 people (now tell all my friends to host their bachelorette parties here and invite me, k?)
Pool Suites
For a true wellness splurge, opt for a Pool Suite with all the same Southwestern luxury – plus a private pool or spa pool.
BEST THINGS TO DO WITHIN A 15-MINUTE WALK:
Emily Hart
Hike Boynton Canyon Trail
Boynton Canyon Trail is a classic, ranked the fourth most popular trail – out of 253 – in Sedona on Alltrails. While most visitors will circle for parking to get on this awe-inspiring 7.2-mile trail, guests at Enchantment can access it right from the property – and cut off some miles if they choose in the process. Opt to hike for the views of the canyon or take the detour to the Insta-famous Subway Cave; you’re guaranteed to see some of the most breathtaking sights imaginable.
Hike to Kachina Woman Vortex
Sedona is known for its vortexes – swirling energy centers thought to be healing, uplifting, and conducive to spiritual practice. Several are around town, with one – Kachina Woman – just steps from and towering above Enchantment Resort. Just a 10-15 minute hike, and you’re above the resort and in the vortex. Spend some time – ideally at sunrise or sunset – sitting and taking in the energy.
BEST THING TO DO WITHIN A 20 MIN BIKE RIDE:
Mountain Bike With Enchantment’s Trail House Guides
Emily Hart
Enchantment is the epicenter of outdoor adventure in Sedona for any experience level. The resort Trail House offers guided tours, equipment rentals, and a retail shop for guests who want to get out there. I had an incredible experience mountain biking with one of the Trail House guides, riding just down the road from the resort to a beginner-friendly – but still challenging – gorgeous biking trail. My guide was part teacher and part therapist, encouraging me to push myself while also trusting myself – leading to a fun, heart-pumping, and memorable experience that won’t be my last.
Trail House also offers guided hiking, Grand Canyon excursions, guided birding excursions, trail running, and photography.
BED GAME: 9/10
Emily Hart
The bed in my Casita was the perfect mix of firm and soft, with fine linens and pillows that felt truly luxurious. Some of my favorite moments were spent sitting in bed, watching TV, and drinking wine with the fireplace on – it was the perfect respite and rest after days of adventure.
SEXINESS RATING: 9/10
Emily Hart
Again, I’ll defer to UPROXX’s Life/Style and Culture Editorial Director Steve Bramucci and his rules for what makes a hotel sexy – specifically when he says, “It has to be a place where, as the great poet Penny Lane once said, ‘It’s all happening.’” Although Enchantment is decidedly quieter and more zen than he may have had in mind here, it is, indeed, all happening. The mix of guests is eclectic at a bucket list property like this, and the opportunities are truly endless and catered to the connoisseur upscale traveler. And if you’re not yet convinced, scroll down to the Insta’s taken on the property for proof.
VIEWS/PIC SPOTS:
Emily Hart
When I say literally every spot past the gates of Enchantment is a great view and ideal pic spot, I’m not kidding. Heck, even a photo from the parking lot will have a better backdrop than 99% of photos anyone has ever taken on this earth. It’s that beautiful.
That being said, I loved the photos I took straight from my Casitas balcony, the pool, and the trails above the resort in Boynton Canyon.
BEST SEASON TO VISIT:
Emily Hart
There isn’t ever a “bad” season to visit Sedona; it just depends on what you’re looking for. Shoulder seasons will bring the best weather and are considered “high season,” winter will have fewer crowds, and summer will be hot but with lots of daylight and generally lower rates.
IF I HAD TO COMPLAIN ABOUT ONE THING:
My only complaint is that I couldn’t stay longer, truly. It’s the sort of special occasion property that really lives up to the hype.
Book here. Prices vary from ~$400 in the off-season to $1,400 in the high season per night.
Here’s the rub: there are a lot of great bourbons priced under $100.
Maybe you’re looking to splurge on yourself, or perhaps you’re looking for the perfect bottle to gift to the bourbon lover in your life, but either way, the options are practically endless if you want to find a really nice bourbon for less than a Benjamin Franklin. Thanks to the rise in bourbon’s popularity, it also doesn’t matter whether you’re looking for something tried and true or a brand-new bottle, there’s truly something for everyone.
Now, with all that said, we’ve got a full accounting of the best bottles under $100 below, but that doesn’t mean all of them will be right at the century mark. It should be no secret by now that price isn’t necessarily the only indicator of quality, so even though some of these bourbons will cost you far less than a C-note, rest assured that these are all bottles that you should be proud to find in the wild and add to your cart, whether it’s to satisfy your own curiosity or put a smile on someone else’s face.
At last, it’s time to find out the best bourbon to buy for less than $100!
Frey Ranch Distillery, tucked away in the mountains of Nevada, is a relative newcomer to the American whiskey world, but they’ve been farming since 1854. All of that agricultural know-how finds its way into the bottle as they utilize their own sustainably grown grains in each of their products, putting nearly 170 years of experience on full display in their farm-to-glass bourbon.
Tasting Notes:
Nose: Leather and cinnamon bark come roaring out of the glass as the impressive proof in this whiskey makes itself known vis-a-vis its burly aromas. Buttery pastry notes and a sweetness reminiscent of port wine add refinement to the affair, with custard and torched blood orange elevating it as well.
Palate: The interplay of grain – with corn pudding playing the role here – with tropical fruit, tobacco leaf, black tea, and clove is mesmerizing in every sip. Be sure to suck your teeth as an invitation for toasted almonds and overripe dates to join the party.
Finish: The finish showcases a delicate balance – though this whiskey is anything but delicate – where leather, dates, and big black pepper vibes all claim equal ground and cling to the roof of your mouth for dear life.
Bottom Line:
Believe it or not, Frey Ranch Distillery has been around for nearly 20 years, having been founded in 2006. Time has wrought a level of expertise coupled with high-quality grains to produce a robust bourbon loaded with robust flavor notes and a silky mouthfeel that you’ll want to experience repeatedly, making this one of the best bottles of bourbon you can buy for under $100.
New Riff, out of Northern Kentucky, is a highly regarded craft distillery that’s increasingly adding age-stated products to their lineup. This new 8-year expression features a mash bill of 65% Corn, 30% Rye, and 5% Malted Barley.
Tasting Notes:
Nose: The aroma of apple cider with mint sprigs punctuates the air around this glass and leaves just enough room for well-oiled leather to make an impression, too. It comes across as a lower proof when nosing it blindly, but only because the ethanol presence is light — the flavors it carries are rich.
Palate: Immediately you’re struck by how well-structured this bourbon is. The mouthfeel is even-keeled and the flavors in each sip are surprisingly well-behaved. Chocolate-dipped raspberries, notes of flan, and slightly overcooked caramel corn each take their turn to dance across the palate, never disturbing one another.
Finish: The finish is where that caramel corn note and a bit of honeyed oak close the ceremony. The finish is medium in length but high in pleasantness.
Bottom Line:
When New Riff first burst onto the scene with excellent 4-year-old whiskey, the industry rejoiced…and then they seemingly stalled out, with 4-year whiskey becoming their default for a spell. It turns out that they were merely biding their time to release some truly special bourbon with a higher age statement.
Knob Creek 12-Year Bourbon is the more mature version of the widely available Knob Creek 9-Year Small Batch. Bottled at the same proof from the same stock of barrels, the 12-year version offers a well-age alternative to an absolute bourbon classic.
Tasting Notes:
Nose: On the nose, you get some of the signature hazelnut qualities that Jim Beam is famously known for, but with more oak, brown sugar, and honeyed black tea, this expression cranks up the intensity as well as the refinement.
Palate: Once on the palate, this bourbon delivers on the promise of the nose by offering classic Jim Beam bourbon notes with a depth of richness that the 9-year small batch only scratches the surface of. There’s a touch of lemon zest atop the prototypical caramel, hazelnut, and rich oak notes, plus a surprisingly robust texture that grips the edges of the palate while gently coating the middle of it.
Finish: The finish is medium to long with more hazelnut notes joined by black pepper and brown sugar, with nutmeg and clove following shortly thereafter. It closes with some vanilla wafer sweetness before gently receding and welcoming a second sip.
Bottom Line:
Knob Creek 12-Year Bourbon is 2024’s best regularly available Knob Creek expression, thanks to a combination of impressive age and rich, balanced flavor. If you absolutely have to spend $100 on bourbon, it’s tough to do better than this one, and the best part is you’ll keep $30 in your pocket for gas to the liquor store.
Barrell Bourbon has been hitting home runs with its barrel-proof bourbon series, and with this fresh label redesign gracing its latest release, it’s looking to use that fresh look to usher in an even more impressive new chapter. This cask-strength blend of straight bourbon whiskey features 9-year bourbon from Kentucky, 7.5, 8, and 10-year bourbon from Indiana, plus some 8 and 15-year bourbon from Tennessee.
Tasting Notes:
Nose: Red apples, salted caramel, and an intriguing radicchio note come through on the nose. Given some time to rest, this bourbon also develops some juicy plum with a touch of leather and clove. This is remarkably well-balanced, and the aroma of orange rind comes through as well.
Palate: The juicy orange flavor comes through on the palate along with some chocolate truffle dust and a steely midpalate, reminiscent of touching your tongue on silver glassware. A bit of bright cherry also bursts at midpalate with some sweet doughiness similar to the sweet gooeyness of a kouign-amann pastry.
Finish: The finish is flush with orange citrus notes that come across as sweet without the slight tartness that can, at times, be off-putting. Throughout the lengthy send-off, there’s plenty of caramel with a touch of thyme, and it all comes across as rather defined, rewarding, extended savoring.
Bottom Line:
Earlier this year, Barrell’s Barrel Proof Bourbon Batch 36 placed in the top three of our “best new bourbons to buy this summer” list, and it’s remained high on our radar ever since. Frankly, this is one of the best batches of barrel-proof bourbon the brand has ever released, and for less than $100, it’s a total deal.
16. Angel’s Envy Bottled In Bond Cask Strength Bourbon
Angel’s Envy Cask Strength Bottled In Bond Bourbon is a distillery exclusive that showcases unfinished Angel’s Envy whiskey for the first time ever. Even more remarkable is the fact that through careful aging and blending, this bourbon meets all of the Bottled In Bond requirements without requiring water for proof, making it a barrel-proof Bottled In Bond bourbon, one of if not the first on the market.
Tasting Notes:
Nose: Cherries, leather, and molasses rise out of the glass at first in a tightly fused ball that bounces from nostril to nostril with brown sugar and wheat bread joining as well. There’s also a distinct oak undertone to go with some milk chocolate, cardboard, and stewed rhubarb, making for an extremely expressive and impressive nose.
Palate: Brown sugar, allspice, raspberry jam, and leather are the most immediately recognizable flavors on the palate, but what’s most impressive is that even as you’re teasing those notes apart, you get a glimpse of a much larger whole. This is an extremely multi-layered pour, packed with flavors you’ll need extended consideration to get halfway through appreciating.
Finish: The finish sees hazelnuts, raspberry jam, and allspice taking turns at the wheel as it gently pulses over your tongue, hanging on for dear life before leaving your palate after a lengthy period.
Bottom Line:
It’s time to really go hunting! This distillery exclusive is the first ever Angel’s Envy product to hit the market that isn’t finished. It also carries the unique distinction of being both cask strength and bottled in bond, a first for the bourbon world and such a super cool detail that it’s worth adding this one to your shopping list for that alone.
15. Bardstown Bourbon Company Origin Series High Wheat
Bardstown Bourbon Company’s Origin Series, founded in 2023, began with three initial entrants, but this new 6-year-old High Wheat Bourbon marks the lineup’s first official expansion. By combining a low barrel entry proof with a high percentage of wheat (39%) in the grain recipe, the brand sought to extract the maximum amount of wood sugars.
Tasting Notes:
Nose: The aroma of this Origin Series High Wheat Bourbon begins with a ton of crème brûlée and strawberries before a touch of oak, wheat funk, and caramel comes through. There are also a few dashes of clove and lemon zest to round things out.
Palate: Once on the palate, the strawberries and custard notes play a major factor as the remarkably creamy texture of the liquid coats your palate and finds every corner of the mouth. Mellow oak tones, vanilla frosting, and flaky pastry flavors also enhance the bourbon.
Finish: The finish here is surprisingly lengthy, with the strawberry note going from ripe berries to the dried variety as a touch of nutmeg creeps in and the gentle oak vibes fuse with honey.
Bottom Line:
Bardstown Bourbon Company already has a wheated bourbon in their Origin Series, and it’s a rock-solid option that has its fair share of admirers among those who have tasted the well-received lineup. That said, this High Wheat Bourbon is absolutely stunning, and not only does it one-up its wheated bourbon predecessor, but it also blows the rest of the stellar Origin Series out of the water. For half a hundred, this is a great pick-up.
Heaven Hill’s Grain To Glass series emphasizes the import of grain varietals in whiskey and the brand’s commitment to family and quality. With this inaugural fleet of releases, they partnered with two family-owned companies and sought the ideal non-GMO corn varietals for bourbon production.
Tasting Notes:
Nose: The aroma of cinnamon and blackberry jam is so inviting on the nose that it feels almost foolhardy to move beyond them — it smells so immediately enticing. Pushing past that initial rush of aromas, one finds sweet oak, mocha, some slight salinity, and a faint petrichor note, making for an intriguing mix of scents.
Palate: This bourbon is immediately dense, which pairs well with the jammy flavor profile as the blackberries from the nose morph into sugar-sweetened raspberries, a bit of airy custard, and freshly ground cinnamon. At midpalate is where you’ll find an explosion of oak and black pepper, which give this whiskey the impression of being aged for about nine years before the flavor of hazelnuts and chocolate truffle dust mark the transition to the finish.
Finish: On the finish, there’s a touch of vanilla ice cream with mint sprigs that pairs well with the persistent raspberry jam notes. It’s medium-to-long in length, and that extended journey helps elevate one’s appreciation of the density of the liquid and the depth of each flavor note.
Bottom Line:
When I first had the pleasure of trying this bourbon alongside Heaven Hill’s bigwigs while being serenaded by a live band in one of the distillery’s Cox’s Creek rickhouses, I was of two minds: one, surely this is excellent bourbon, and two, surely the setting elevated the experience. Now, with an opportunity to revisit the liquid in a sterile environment, I’m positive the former is true, but I have doubts about the latter. This bottle slaps in any setting, and getting it for $100 flat feels like stealing.
Holladay Distillery in Weston, MO, is a beautiful destination where a new generation of bourbon makers are casting the dye for an incredible future. With Master Distiller Kyle Merklein steering the ship, Holladay is putting out two excellent 6-year bourbons from a rye-based and a wheat-based mash bill. For this Rickhouse Proof expression, they’ve chosen to showcase the latter at full octane, without dilution.
Tasting Notes:
Nose: Smoked caramel, dark chocolate, and stewed red apples give this one a really autumnal vibe, with clove and some great barrel char and oak tones tying it all together.
Palate: Smoked caramel makes it to the palate along with a lot of vanilla and nougat, while dark chocolate plays a supporting role from the wings. The dense oak and barrel char notes are really the skeleton that holds this all together, though, and enables the sweeter notes to stand tall with a few shakes of clove thrown in for good measure.
Finish: The finish gives a sweet impression of cooked apples and caramel, which helps to curtail the heat and heighten one’s enjoyment. One other thing that helps is it sticks around for a long time, affording you the opportunity to savor it until the last drop.
Bottom Line:
Ben Holladay’s Bourbon is enjoying a ton of critical acclaim as one of the best young craft distilleries on the market today, and that reputation is well-earned. If you aren’t already adding bottles of Ben Holladay Bourbon to your liquor cabinet, then there’s no better time than Bourbon Heritage Month to start exploring one of the best non-Kentucky bourbon brands in all of the land.
Old Weller Antique, or Weller 107 as it’s commonly called, is the second expression in Buffalo Trace’s Weller lineup. With an estimated age range of about seven years, it shares a grain recipe, warehouse location, and proof point with Old Rip Van Winkle.
Tasting Notes:
Nose: The nose on Old Weller Antique is befitting of its packaging as candied red apples and honey combine with soft pastry notes, a touch of honey, allspice, and butterscotch.
Palate: On the palate, those candied apple notes achieve an impressive depth, almost mimicking the flavor of apple cider as waves of caramel, mellow oak, and milk chocolate come crashing in. The well-balanced whiskey is aided by a viscous mouthfeel underlined by a prickly infusion of ethanol, black pepper, and tart apple cider vinegar.
Finish: For its closing word, Weller Antique offers a fresher note of stone fruit and Rainier cherries, dipped in milk chocolate and closing with vanilla ice cream. The finish is medium-length but substantive, allowing enough space for each flavor note to have its say before tapering away.
Bottom Line:
Old Weller Antique is highly sought after for existing under the halo of the Pappy Van Winkle lineup and William Larue Weller wheated bourbon, but the truth of the matter is that this might be the most versatile and underrated whiskey in the Weller portfolio. Be forewarned: this isn’t the easiest bottle on the list to find under $100, but if you can do so, it’s a stellar bottle that won’t disappoint.
Four Roses Small Batch Select uses six of the brand’s ten recipes (OBSV, OBSK, OBSF, OESV, OESK, and OESF) for a unique blend concocted by Master Distiller Brent Elliott and ages the liquid for six to seven years before batching, lightly proofing, and bottling it all up.
Tasting Notes:
Nose: On the nose, Four Roses Small Batch Select offers cola nut, bright red cherries, black pepper, nutmeg, and clove with some oak and caramel tones following behind those initial top notes. It’s robust and inviting with a lovely baking spice presence that displays a ton of balance.
Palate: Four Roses Small Batch Select hits the palate with a full-bodied richness that coats your tongue and sends you mining your taste buds to discover the flavor of jammy cherries, nutmeg, black pepper, and honeyed black tea. The texture would count as its defining quality if it weren’t for the impressive balance of the flavors ever-so-slightly outperforming the viscous mouthfeel.
Finish: The lingering finish is where you’ll find vanilla extract, raspberries, brown sugar, and a light mint note — which reminds you that this is a robust Four Roses bourbon.
Bottom Line:
Four Roses Small Batch Select is such a great option to buy under $100. Because it tends to get overlooked when folks are shopping for bottles under $50 and passed over for pricier bottles when they’re feeling spendier you might not have this one on your radar, but that needs to change today.
For this year’s Remus Repeal Reserve Series VIII, Ross & Squibb blends three different bourbons. 9% of the blend is a 2007 bourbon (17 years old) with a 21% rye mash bill, 24% is a 2014 bourbon (10 years old) with the same rye content, and 67% is a 2014 bourbon (10 years old) with a 36% rye content mash bill.
Tasting Notes:
Nose: This bourbon unfurls with aroma notes of pine, crème brûlée, and caramel, with pecans, leather, and black pepper following closely behind. It’s a multi-layered nose that punches above its weight and draws you in deeply from the outset.
Palate: Maple candy and Fig Newtons greet the palate with the first sip and then introduce vanilla, oak, brown sugar, and milk chocolate at mid-palate. Remus Repeal Reserve Series VIII has a bit of heat and a robust texture that coats the palate and will have you double-checking the proof point while it grabs hold of your tongue and makes a fantastic, forceful impression.
Finish: The finish is lingering with date syrup, black pepper, and leather, joining a fresh influx of vanilla extract on the back end.
Bottom Line:
Remus Repeal Reserve Series VIII is an excellent course correction for this series, which has produced uneven results since its universally beloved fourth edition. While this one delivers some of the rich oak notes found in that earlier iteration, it also brings some fun new flavor to the fore in the form of pine while balancing the leather and chocolate notes brought on by the 17-year-old whiskey in the blend.
Pursuit United’s Double Oaked Bourbon is the latest line extension from Kenny Coleman and Ryan Cecil, the guys behind the world’s most popular bourbon podcast, Bourbon Pursuit, and one of the most well-received upstart whiskey brands in the last few years: Pursuit United. The dynamic duo put together this blend and then subjected it to secondary maturation using custom 36-month seasoned French oak medium-toasted staves.
Tasting Notes:
Nose: With an initial whiff of butterscotch and marshmallow notes, this whiskey immediately gives off campfire vibes as the lighter, sweet notes control the overall impression of the nose.
Palate: With one sip, Pursuit’s Double Oaked Bourbon confirms the nose’s suspicions as the campfire vibes continue thanks to honeyed graham cracker, marshmallow, and butterscotch with a touch of grilled peach and youthful oak bringing it all together.
Finish: The finish does bring a bit more stone fruit notes while cinnamon and vanilla custard carry through, giving it moderate length with a lovely sweet and spice balance.
Bottom Line:
Make no mistake: Kenny and Ryan are as committed to their craft as anyone in the industry, and the rising star in their portfolio, this Double Oaked Bourbon, is ready for its close-up. With a cost that comes in well shy of $100, it’s a great option in this price range.
Maker’s Mark Cask Strength Bourbon is the fully amplified, small-batch version of one of the best-selling whiskeys in the world. Released in small batches, with their identifying codes found on the front label, this expression showcases Maker’s Mark in its purest form.
Tasting Notes:
Nose: On the nose, this whiskey begins with plenty of honeysuckle and toffee before the sweeter notes break rank and allow oak, red berries (think bright cherries and ripe raspberries), and a combination of oak and leather to rise out of the glass.
Palate: The first sip of Maker’s Mark Cask Strength is a revelation, resplendent with more pronounced red berry and caramel flavors than the nose at first indicated. Those flavors are far-reaching, with a refinement that rewards chewing the whiskey and allowing the viscous liquid to seep deep and then deeper still into your palate.
Finish: For the lengthy finish, Maker’s Mark Cask Strength offers a fresh cavalcade of accenting notes, ranging from vanilla and mellow oak to clove, orange blossom, and truffle honey. It’s a complex and captivating way to close this robust, elegant bourbon.
Bottom Line:
Maker’s Mark Cask Strength is easily one of the best bourbons at any price point; frankly, not enough people know it. While standard Maker’s Mark enjoys ubiquity at bars and liquor stores, this slightly harder-to-find offering tends to fly under the radar despite its incredible quality. Let that be the case no more.
Wild Turkey Rare Breed was initially introduced as Wild Turkey’s (really Jimmy Russell’s) response to the launch of Jim Beam’s Booker’s. Launched at a time when high-proof bourbon was less en vogue, it reflects Jimmy’s prescience in predicting the market’s future.
Tasting Notes:
Nose: Honeysuckle, bright red cherries, and cinnamon rolls delight the senses once Rare Breed tumbles into your glass. Given some time to sit, you’ll find well-aged oak, clove, nutmeg, vanilla extract, and toasted almonds all elevate the aroma profile of this bourbon.
Palate: The flavors in this bourbon are rich and well-developed, with each of the nosing notes coming through on the palate. Those flavors are bolstered by a bit of cooked apple and pie shell for a robust yet clearly defined cavalcade of notes with a spry texture that deceptively coats your palate after several sips.
Finish: Lengthy and lingering, the finish on Rare Breed is balanced and delicious as it deftly combines sweetness and spice — leaving you wondering which one will last the longest. The answer is typically the spice.
Bottom Line:
Rare Breed is frequently cited as a limited edition whiskey hiding in plain sight, and that reputation is well earned. With a flavor profile that brings an abundance of red berries, vanilla, and baking spice, Wild Turkey Rare Breed has an enchanting combination of mature flavor, delicate balance, and stern force that makes it a world beater.
6. Jack Daniel’s Single Barrel Barrel Proof Tennessee Whiskey
Some bourbon lovers might be surprised to see Jack Daniel’s on this list, but it’s time to let you in on two open secrets in the enthusiast community. One: Jack Daniel’s meets all the requirements to be called a bourbon. Sorry, not sorry. Even their Master Distiller says so himself. Two: Jack Daniel’s Single Barrel Barrel Proof is one of the best values in the bourbon world, capable of going toe-to-toe with classics like Elijah Craig Barrel Proof in blind tastings.
Tasting Notes:
Nose: The nose on this one blasts you with overripe bananas, orange zest, maple candy, and rich oak for a delightful medley that feels dessert-like with a boozy punch.
Palate: On the palate, the flavor of banana bread mingles with caramelized orange wheels and maple candy for a melange that you can’t help but roll over your tongue and chew. The caramel and vanilla rise to the top when you hold it on your palate, as does a touch of barrel char and a faintly smoky note that eludes detection when you focus your senses on it but tickles the periphery when you let it be.
Finish: The finish is medium-length and reintroduces the vanilla pod, oak, and cooked orange notes as it fades off of your tongue with one final flourish of black pepper spice.
Bottom Line:
Jack Daniel’s Single Barrel Barrel Proof Whiskey is yet another bottle with “limited edition” quality sitting right under folks’ noses. Part of the reason for that is Jack Daniel’s ubiquity, which makes people think this bottle is like the rest of the JD range, and part of it is inexperience as they chase flashy new expressions from distilleries with a fraction of the know-how. If this bottle isn’t one you regularly seek out, change that today.
The Icon Series from 2XO has been chugging along nicely, with four previous limited edition blends garnering high praise. Now, the latest edition is hitting shelves, and it’s called the Sneakerhead Blend to honor Master Blender and brand founder Dixon Dedman’s love of sneaker culture.
Tasting Notes:
Nose: This bourbon is immediately evocative of cherry tarts, leather, and milk chocolate on the nose. Sadly, the leather is more of the robust, well-aged Chesterfield kind and less of Jordan XI’s vinyl-like patent leather aroma.
Palate: Once you have an opportunity to sip the Sneakerhead Blend, you’ll note all of the aroma notes surviving on the palate, and they’re joined by a gently pulsing black pepper spice presence that glues all of the well-aged bourbon notes of stewed black cherries, chocolate, and leather, together. The mouthfeel is satisfyingly full-bodied, offering plenty of room for those refined flavors to blossom and sprout.
Finish: On the finish, it’s the notes of leather and cherry that stand out, and those are joined by a touch of tobacco leaf and smoked mint sprigs for an interesting savory and sweet balance that lingers long after each sip.
Bottom Line:
2XO has been releasing some quietly underrated blends for a while now, but it’s no exaggeration to say that the Sneakerhead Blend is the best work they’ve done so far. While the Gem of Kentucky series of single barrels have been bruisers in the wider world of bourbon, at the $100 mark, the Icon Series is delivering killer value with high-quality liquid to boot.
Kings County is New York City’s oldest distillery and all that experience is brought to full bear with their Barrel Strength Bourbon. For their premier undiluted offering, the brand uses some of their oldest barrels which are aged between 4 and 7 years.
Tasting Notes:
Nose: Green grape skin and brown sugar are striking at first, but wait…there’s more. Enter the custard with lemon zest, black pepper, nutmeg, Brazil nuts, and honey to add to the depth.
Palate: The flavor of corn pudding, honey, and golden raisins splash across the palate, adding surprising levity to the dense and dark liquid in the glass. It coats your palate at once and beckons the back of your tastebuds to explore more as each sip slowly dissipates.
Finish: The finish is incredibly long-lasting, and it’s there that you’ll find more baking spices and barrel char to corral those sweeter top notes.
Bottom Line:
It’s well-known by now that Kings County produces bourbon that can punch above its weight on the national scene. If more people were to try the best of their bourbon — and these barrel-strength releases are definitely among the best of their bourbon — next to some of Kentucky’s heavyweights, it would be more well-known that Kings County can hold its own.
Elijah Craig Barrel Proof is often heralded as the single best value in all of bourbon. Why? Because it’s a consistent product, released three times a year, that clocks in at full barrel strength and aged for at least 11 years. This year’s “B” Batch, B524, was aged for 11 years and two months.
Tasting Notes:
Nose: My initial nosing notes say, “This is just dope.” I hope that begins to explain what’s going on here. The aroma of buttery croissants and cinnamon reaches the nose, along with some hazelnut spread, sticky toffee, and honey brioche buns.
Palate: The palate finds earthy toasted almond notes coming together with decadent dark chocolate and more buttery, flaky, croissant flavors. Excuse my French, but pain au chocolat ain’t got shit on this. The texture is well-fused and oily, which causes it to stick to your teeth despite the high-octane proof point, which makes this one dangerous pour.
Finish: The finish is pretty lengthy and introduces a bit of walnut meat, hazelnut, and a few shakes of clove and nutmeg to the palate. All in all, it’s a really satisfying send-off.
Bottom Line:
Simply put, Elijah Craig Barrel Proof is one of the best bourbons on the market, cost be damned. After a solid but polarizing “A” batch earlier this year, Elijah Craig is back on its “A” game for 2024’s second release, making it one of the premier barrel-proof bourbons to hunt down right now.
Russell’s Reserve Single Barrel Bourbon is one of the quintessential bourbons on the market today. The brand was first launched in 2013 on the heels of Wild Turkey’s success with Russell’s Reserve Small Batch. Non-chill filtered and always proofed to 55% ABV, this release features both a general release and private barrel selections.
Tasting Notes:
Nose: This whiskey opens with a rich interplay of thick cherry syrup and vanilla ice cream with honey, white pepper, clove, and oak aromas, and it noses as one of the best damn desserts Lawrenceburg, KY, can offer.
Palate: Cola nut, Luxardo cherries, and French vanilla hit the palate first before this rich bourbon invites white pepper and some faint barrel char notes to join them. As the liquid travels to the back of your palate, it begins bringing peanut brittle, black pepper, oak, and a faint green apple flavor to the fore.
Finish: The medium-length finish has cooked red apple and cinnamon, with restrained barrel char having the final say.
Bottom Line:
Look, Russell’s Reserve Single Barrels are almost universally awesome. You can visit your local liquor store and inquire about the standard version of this offering, or you can go the extra mile and seek out single-barrel selections from folks whose palate you trust. Either way, you’re sure to hit on a winner.
Fortuna Barrel Proof Bourbon is the pinnacle of the revived Fortuna brand from Rare Character. Always aged for at least seven years, the bourbon is sourced from an undisclosed distillery in Kentucky and blended in three-to-five barrel lots.
Tasting Notes:
Nose: The nose opens with boozy cocktail cherries, cinnamon bark, rich oak tones, and even a hint of mocha. After a wave of the hand, as the liquid tumbles around your glass, aerating it will reveal further aromas of butterscotch, black pepper, cacao nibs, and strawberry jam.
Palate: The nosing notes offer a solid roadmap for what follows on the palate as blackberry jam replaces the strawberries found on the nose while cinnamon, almond extract, dense oak, and sticky toffee run rampant on the tongue. The texture is robust and offers a fullness that allows each flavor to present itself distinctly, revealing its impressive richness.
Finish: The finish is long-lasting and introduces clove, freshly grated ginger, and black pepper for one final baking spice sizzle before the syrupy black cherry notes leave a sweet final impression.
Bottom Line:
Fortuna Barrel Proof entered the market with a splash, immediately challenging the supremacy of several cask-strength stalwarts on this list. Now, nearly a year after its introduction to the market, it’s become clear that it isn’t just beginner’s luck that warrants its place in the conversation. Fortuna Barrel Proof Bourbon is our most highly recommended bottle to buy for under $100 for 2024.
Three years in and the bilingual K-Pop group P1 Harmony has perfected their r&b/rap vocal balance with simmering pop production and earworm hooks. This is in evidence on their latest album, the 10-track Killin’ It. The “killing” is done by a six-member mega-high-energy choreo-performing crew consisting of Keeho (lead vocalist), Theo (vocalist), Jiung (vocalist/rapper), Intak (rapper), Jongseob (rapper and songwriter) and Soul (rapper).
Despite being independent, P1 Harmony hit US top 40 radio in 2023 with their single “Fall In Love Again” and charted on Billboard and Spotify, which led to a world tour that took them through the US, Europe, Asia, Australia, New Zealand, and Latin America. They’ve also achieved all of the major US music industry success signifiers – major artist co-signs, national TV performances, and top-tier press hype. P1 Harmony is on the cusp of pop culture breakthrough and there is a palpable excitement amongst their team with the compounding traction.
To mark the release their latest single “Sad Song,” we caught up with the group following their Gov Ball debut and North American tour to talk about all the great food they’ve eaten during the ascendancy. We got the scoop on Keeho’s Miami restaurant incident, Intak’s go-to Chicago Italian spot, Theo’s hotel and plane must-haves, and Jongseob’s favorite soda. We also had P1 Harmony predict the next Korean food craze to take off abroad, share the Korean dishes they miss most on tour and had Keeho explain why Costco fries are the best.
What is on your rider when it comes to food and drinks?
Keeho: We don’t really have a list. When we have shows and we arrive at the venue, they are so nice to have set up drinks, different sodas, different Gatorades. Theo loves to have chocolate in the waiting room because he loves chocolate. They usually just have snacks for us; chips and stuff. Apparently, we do have a rider but I don’t know about it. We didn’t have a say.
So when you guys are moving around the United States or from city to city, you guys have a Sprinter or tour bus. What type of food and drinks do you have there?
Keeho: Well right now on our tour, we travel by plane. Whenever we’re in a city, we are always trying to have whatever food represents that city. We were in Boston and we heard lobster tails are super popular. So Intak and I went out and had some lobster.
When you guys are traveling, if you’re at the airport, is there a snack that you get to have on the plane, or what do you pick up at the airport?
Theo: A Chicken wrap.
Keeho: Theo says he loves to get a nice chicken burrito wrap.
Jiung: I usually have the croissant sandwich.
When you guys get to your hotel, do you ever take anything out of the mini bar? Are you guys going to get snacks at a local convenience store?
Keeho: Theo finds a local convenience store and he always stocks up on chocolate.
Jiung: Chocolate guy.
Keeho: I’m learning about that today. I didn’t even know he was that big on chocolate. What kind of chocolate?
Theo: I like milk.
Keeho: Huh? Milk chocolate. He likes milk chocolate.
Anybody else? Or is Theo’s the resident snacker?
Jiung: I always have the, what was it?
Keeho: Ah, oh, taquito.
Jiung: Taquito.
Intak: Taquito!
Keeho: Also, in our hotel rooms, we also have a lot of different types of ramen and whenever we want ramen, they have it ready for us. So, we always have ramen on demand.
Is there a specific brand of ramen that’s your favorite?
Jongseob: Kimchi ramen.
Keeho: Theo says ramen that’s not too spicy. This is the most I’ve heard Theo talk today. I think he just really likes talking about food. But he said he likes non-spicy ramen.
I read that Soul really likes kimchi stew, is that similar to kimchi ramen?
Keeho: Soul hasn’t been able to eat kimchi stew recently, so he is super into the kimchi ramen because he thinks that the kimchi ramen tastes better now. Because we could only really get authentic kimchi stew back in South Korea. So when he’s out here in America, he loves to have the kimchi ramen.
When you guys are recording in the studio, are there any snacks or foods or drinks that you guys need to get creative?
Jongseob: Always I must have a soda.
Keeho: You need to have soda?
Jongseob: Any soda.
Keeho: You also love chicken. You always have chicken.
Any type of soda or chicken that’s your favorite?
Jongseob: My favorite? Oh, that’s hard. My favorite is also Cider.
Keeho: Oh, it’s like the Korean version of Sprite.
What’s your favorite type of chicken? Is it like a fried chicken or a specific dish that you really like?
Keeho: So Jongseob says it varies by the time, but he loves to always experiment and try whatever flavor seems the most unique.
Before you guys started on your US tour, were there any cities where you were excited to get to try the food?
Intak: I got one thing, Chicago carbonara?
Keeho: So last time, Intak and I, when we were in Chicago, we had fettuccine alfredo pasta with shrimp. And he loved that pasta so much that every time we come back to the states, he’s just waiting to go back to Chicago to have the fettuccine alfredo pasta again.
I saw that you guys went on a tour and you went to Asia, Europe, Australia, New Zealand, and Latin America. Are there any foods that you tried while you were traveling that you could share that were really good or really weird or just something that was a surprise?
Keeho: When we went to Beijing, we had Peking Duck, but they had the whole head on it and Jongseob tried the head of the duck.
How was it?
Keeho: There was not a lot of meat on the head so you can’t even say if it tasted good or bad, but it was very much a new experience.
Anything on any of the other continents, like in Latin America, New Zealand, or Australia that you all tried that was kind of interesting?
Jiung: For me, when we went to Philly for the collab with Pink Sweats we got Philly Cheesesteak. It was really good.
Keeho: For me, when we were in Europe, I think we were in Germany, but they had Schnitzel. I remember when I was in ninth grade of high school, we went to Germany and the Czech Republic and Austria for a school trip and I remember having schnitzel every dinner and then it reminded me of that and it was like, “Oh, I miss this taste of schnitzel.” It was good.
Let’s talk about Korean food. So what do you guys think about Korean food outside of Korea? Have you tried any that’s good or is none of it as good as at home?
Jiung: L.A. and New York have very good Korean food.
So you would say the Korean food in L.A. and New York is worth trying, but maybe not in other states?
Keeho: So Theo says it’s only fair judgment if you are able to go and eat at the restaurant itself. He didn’t get to do that for a lot of other stops in other cities except L.A. and New York so he can’t really make a fair judgment. But he does feel like L.A. And New York have really, really good Korean good and even sometimes it tastes better than actual Korean food in Korea. He really, really likes the Korean food in New York and L.A.
What is each of your favorite Korean dishes from home? If each of you could name one dish that you miss while you’re traveling?
Jiung: It’s a noodle… In Korea, called Kal-guksu.
Keeho: Kal-guksu.
Jiung: I miss that a lot. That’s my favorite.
Theo: Yukke.
Keeho: Yukke. Beef tartar.
Intak: Pork belly.
Jiung: Chicken stew.
Intak: Chicken stew. Original Korean-style chicken soup dish.
Keeho: Pork stir-fry.
Keeho, I saw a review you did online of the best french fries. You talked about how you love the french fries at Costco. Do they have Costco in Korea or was that in another country?
Keeho: They do have Costco in Korea, but I’m referring to the Costco back in my hometown in Toronto. So when I had french fries in Toronto at Costco, Costco fries are nice and big and also really crispy, but soft on the inside with the perfect amount of saltiness, they never go wrong.
And what about Shake Shack? Do you get the cheese sauce at Shake Shack or no?
Keeho: Yeah, of course. I love the cheese sauce.
Can you share what happened with the restaurant incident in Miami? I heard you didn’t get into a restaurant because of how you were dressed.
Keeho: I took myself out on a date and I was looking up super nice restaurants in Miami. I had walked 30 minutes to get to a restaurant and as soon as they tried to go in, they stopped me and said, “You’re not allowed in.” I was like, “Why?” And they’re like, “You’re wearing shorts and you have a hat on.” And I was like, “Oh shoot.”
Did you go back after you changed or you went to a different restaurant?
Keeho: Our hotel was pretty far from that restaurant. I went to another restaurant that was close, and they had the same restrictions, but I had already changed by then, so it was fine. It was MILA that I got rejected from. And then the one I went to was called, it was like an Asian fusion restaurant. I forget what the restaurant that I did end up going to though.
Oh, it was called Sexy Fish!
Sexy Fish
What do you think the next Korean food should be that gets really popular outside of Korea?
Keeho: Okay, this is kind of a craze. I think it’s slowly starting to happen. Intak says definitely rice cake, hot rice cake, spicy rice cake.
Is that a cooked item or is that a dried rice cake?
Keeho: It’s like a soft rice cake. It’s just the rice cake itself in spicy red gochujang sauce.
Another Korean rice cake recipe ! Stir fried rice cakes with a sweet Gochujang sauce. I already mentioned it in the video but I have to mention it again. Definitely use something sweet to balance out the strong savory flavor from the Gochujang and soy sauce. I used sugar, but I recommend you to additionally use corn or rice syrup and / or ketchup. Otherwise you can’t eat it! Lol Ingredients: – rice cakes – 2 tbsp gochujang sauce (Korean red pepper paste) – 1 tbsp soy sauce – 1 tbsp sugar – 2 tbsp ketchup – 3 tbsp corn or rice syrup 1. Wash and cook your rice cakes for 5 mins 2. Fry the rice cakes on low heat until they are crispy 3. Add the sauce and fry it for another 5 mins on very low heat 4. Garnish with sesame seeds and green onion #koreanfood#ricecake#ricecakerecipe#stirfriedricecake#easyrecipe#quickmeals#asianfood#veganuary#vegantiktok#vegankoreanfood
After a brief hiatus from the public eye, Lil Nas X seemed to put his tearless trolling and continuous pot stirring to bed. Well, that was until today (September 21). Over on X (formerly Twitter), the “J Christ” musician couldn’t help but insert himself in to a one-sided flirty exchange between fellow recording artists.
Over on Instagram, Jack Harlow appeared to tease lyrics to an unreleased song. The poetic thirst trap caught the attention of Omar Apollo, who put a creative spin on the lines. But Lil Nas X took to X to quash the response, writing: “Omar Apollo count your f*cking days!”
The hilarious love triangle has one glaring issue, Jack Harlow identifies as a heterosexual whereas other Lil Nas X and Omar Apollo are queer. Plus as a former collaborator Lil Nas X knows this quite well. But apparently the joke was too good to resist. As Lil Nas X’s “He Knows” collaboration with Camila Cabello demonstrates he isn’t apposed to competing for the same man. But in this scenario it was just for a good laugh.
However, Harlow’s caption, which read: “U not the first girl / To tell me I should wear sunscreen every day / U not the first girl / To tell me who I am because of my birthday,” and Omar Apollo’s response (“Lemme be the first boy to tell you”) could mean they are working on some new music.
Neither Omar Apollo nor Jack Harlow have addressed Lil Nas X’s reaction.
Last month we pitted affordable and expensive blanco tequilas against one another and it revealed that great flavor and quality don’t always run parallel to price. Yes, our favorite bottle from that ranking was one of the pricier ones. But it wasn’t the most expensive in our lineup and several of the affordable bottles punched way above their weight class.
That’s great news for budget-minded people who are chasing bottles that will provide them the best value for their money. So this time around, we’re tightening the price range, and instead of blanco tequila we’re putting the focus on reposado tequila. Since reposado tequilas are aged the price tags tend to be a bit heftier so it’ll be interesting to see how the affordable bottles (under $30) hold up against bottles double the price.
Let’s drink!
Methodology:
Dane Rivera
For this blind taste test, we rounded up a batch of our favorite affordable reposados, some newcomers, and bottles that are incredibly easy to find.
Here is our tasting class:
Astral — Tequila Reposado
Cambio — Tequila Reposado
Cayeya — Blended Reposado
Don Fulano — Tequila Reposado
Espolón — Tequila Reposado
Flecha Azul — Tequila Reposado
Jose Cuervo — Tradicional Reposado Tequila
Tres Agaves — Reposado
Part 1: The Tequila Reposado Taste Test:
Taste 1:
Dane Rivera
Nose: A light kiss of honey atop waves of caramelized agave.
Palate: I’m tasting white pepper and a hint of cayenne over a rich honey sweetness.
Finish: Nice and buttery with an oily mouthfeel and a touch of oak.
Taste 2:
Dane Rivera
Nose: I’m getting vanilla sweetness and the slightest tinge of alcohol harshness
Palate: An overwhelming rush of black pepper with notes of cheap vanilla and agave. There is a blunt aspect to the flavor here, it lands flat.
Finish: A harsh burn with a blunt oak finish.
Taste 3:
Dane Rivera
Nose: I’m getting some star jasmine, honey, and a touch of vanilla.
Palate: This one is really putting into perspective how flat the first two tastes here. I’m tasting an initial floral sweetness that shifts into grassy vegetal notes, raw agave, and a touch of vanilla.
Finish: A nice finish that combines caramelized agave and light oak. Really pleasant and savory.
Taste 4:
Dane Rivera
Nose: I’m smelling a heavy dose of white sugar covering ethanol. There is a noticeable cheapness to the smell here.
Palate: The flavor hits you like a sledgehammer, it’s blunt and harsh with a light sense of grassiness but no agave.
Finish: Flat and lifeless. Very alcohol-heavy.
Taste 5:
Dane Rivera
Nose: A bit of funk mixed with roasted agave, vanilla, and butterscotch.
Palate: A wonderful mix of chocolate, raisins, and cinnamon — almost like an oatmeal cookie.
Finish: Peppery and chocolatey with a lot of oak.
Taste 6:
Dane Rivera
Nose: There is a candy-like quality to the nose here, I’m getting a strong whiff of bubblegum and roasted agave.
Palate: A lot going on here, I’m getting a heavy green grass influence with some asparagus notes, flowers, butter scotch, and vanilla.
Finish: Heavy on the oak with a nice burning spice that stays on the tongue and builds in intensity between sips.
Taste 7:
Dane Rivera
Nose: Warm agave and vanilla, you can smell a bit of the oak on this one and fresh clay.
Palate: Surprisingly light and fruity, I’m getting. a lot of citrus mixed with caramel and vanilla.
Finish: A very mellow finish with some comforting oak notes.
Taste 8:
Dane Rivera
Nose: Chocolate and agave with a hint of alcohol lurking beneath.
Palate: Roasted agave, cracked black pepper, caramel and citrus dominate the palate here. It’s mellow but unimaginative. It doesn’t really take you anywhere.
Finish: A bit of a burn here with a blunt one-note oak finish.
Out of all the pours I’ve tasted today this is the only one that I would describe as tasting burnt. The liquid was heavily perfumed, the flavors fell flat, and there was a harshness on the aftertaste that was downright off-putting. I hate to be so mean but this bottle is a straight-up skip.
While the nose didn’t win me over, I think the flavor offers a lot to work with here. Astral isn’t a great candidate for sipping but it had a pleasing warm spice to it and a nice balance of vanilla and agave that I think would work great in any cocktail.
Astral is produced at NOM 1607, Grupo Solave, and is made using agave cooked in stone ovens, tahona crushed, and twice distilled in copper pots. To reach the repo state, the tequila is aged for five months in single-use American oak bourbon barrels.
The Bottom Line:
A vanilla-forward subtly spicy tequila ideal for mixing.
Generally, you can’t go wrong with Espolon, for the price, it is one of the best bottles in its league but compared to the pricier options in this tasting, it couldn’t quite keep up. The flavor notes were a bit flat here in comparison, and while when mixed it’s mellow, peppery, and agave-forward, as a straight sipper, you taste its weaker aspects.
The tequila is produced at NOM 1440, Campari, using agave that is cooked in a low-pressure autoclave, roller mill extracted, mixed with well water, and aged for three months in American white oak barrels.
Espolón is produced at NOM 1440, Campari, using agave that is aged for three months in American White oak barrels.
The Bottom Line:
Great for mixing, but not quite as versatile as what we’ve ranked higher.
Feel it feel it! Sorry, but Mark Wahlberg is an investor in Flecha Azul and anytime Mark Wahlberg is involved in anything (and he’s involved in a lot — from burgers to gyms, to tequila) I can’t help but bring up the Funky Bunch, even if its an incredibly dated reference.
Just because Mark Wahlberg is plastered all over the Flecha Azul website, don’t let his involvement dissuade you as this liquid is quality! Produced at NOM 1110, Tequila Orendain de Jalisco, Flecha Azul is an additive-free tequila made from agave cooked in stone ovens, roller mill extracted, mixed with spring water, and aged in American white oak ex-bourbon barrels.
The Bottom Line:
Supple and smooth but with enough bite to remind you that you’re drinking tequila.
Tres Agaves falls right in that monetary sweet spot for us — sub $40 — and in my opinion punches way above its weight. It was also named one of the Top 100 Spirits Of The Year by Wine Enthusiast, which is a great sign.
The tequila is produced at NOM 1614, Tequilera Tap, and is made from agave cooked in a high-pressure autoclave, roller mill extracted, mixed with well water, fermented in stainless steel tanks, and aged for 9 months in Tennessee whiskey and Kentucky bourbon barrels.
It is certified additive-free by Tequila Matchmaker and works well in cocktails and sipped neat.
The Bottom Line:
Light and fruity with a heavy barrel aftertaste that makes it an ideal candidate for cocktails and slow sipping alike.
Thanks to its chocolatey tones, peppery bite, and light barrel finish, Cayéya performed excellently in this lineup.
The tequila is produced at NOM 1424, Destiladora de Agave Azul, and is made from single estate harvested agave slow-cooked in brick ovens, mixed with well water, and aged for six months in a mix of French and American wood barrels.
The Bottom Line:
Agave forward with rich chocolate notes and a peppery finish. A fantastic sipper and mixer.
At above the typical 40% ABV, Cambio’s Tequila Reposado packs a powerful punch on the palate and an undeniably interesting flavor that has me excited to explore this expression further. This was my first time trying the brand so I’m excited to see how it competes against pricier bottles.
The tequila is produced at NOM 1605 from single estate harvest agave that is slow-cooked in brick ovens, tahona extracted, mixed with well water, and fermented in open-air fermentation tanks. To reach the reposado state, the tequila is aged for a month in Burgundy and Bordeaux barrels and then for an additional five in French Oak chardonnay casks.
It is certified additive-free by tequila matchmaker.
The Bottom Line:
Fragrant, agave forward, and spicy with a strong barrel-influenced finish that sticks to the tongue in the best way.
1. Don Fulano — Tequila Reposado (Taste 3)
Don Fulano
ABV: 40% Price:
The Tequila:
Here it is, our top pick! Don Fulano’s additive-free reposado tequila was hands down the winner of today’s taste test thanks to its shifting and nuanced flavors. Its agave forward, floral, with a light vanilla influence and a great oaky finish.
Produced at NOM 1146, Tequileña, from highland agave that is cooked for 28 to 32 hours, screw mill extracted, and fermented in open-air tanks for 72 to 96 hours. Once twice distilled the tequila is aged for 8 to 11 months in French Limousin oak casks.
The Bottom Line:
A single sip introduces your palate to a bouquet of flavors from floral honeyed sweetness to complex vegetal notes. Easily one of the best bottles at its price point.
The Big Takeaway:
There weren’t a lot of surprises here, the bottles that cost more generally performed much stronger, with a few exceptions. The real test is to see how our top four here perform against truly expensive reposado tequilas. But that’ll have to wait for another day.
Yesterday (September 20), Tina Knowles addressed the upload in The Neighborhood Talk‘s comment section (viewable here), writing: “This is fake. Not from me!”
The message in question read: “Oh Ms. Dolly, we love you, but Bey did spend her WHOLE life workin’ hard, since she was 9! She got country roots too. She’s mastered her craft and broken records in EVERY genre. So sayin’ she didn’t ‘spend her life’ in country music dismisses all that work she put in.”
Although Tina claims she didn’t post a response to Dolly Parton’s defense of the CMA Awards, Beyoncé’s father and former manager Matthew Knowles has spoken out. During a conversation with TMZ, Matthew called out the CMA Awards voting committee. “[The voters are] showing it still comes down to white and Black,” he said. “There’s more white people in America, and unfortunately they don’t vote based on ability and achievements, it’s still sometimes a white and Black thing.”
Beyoncé, herself, still hasn’t addressed the CMA Awards nomination list.
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