Bourbon Bytes Podcast

In this episode, Clifton shares his excitement over several 2026 whiskey releases spotted via new TTB filings — from Knob Creek 12 Cask Strength to an Old Grandad 114 Single Barrel and Rittenhouse’s upcoming 10-Year BIB. After the news, he reviews Copperworks’ brand-new Kilt Lifter Whiskey, a five-year American Single Malt distilled from Pike Brewing’s iconic “Kilt Lifter” ale mash. The pine-heavy nose surprises him, but the palate and finish win him over, earning a high score and a potential spot in his Top 10 Whiskeys of 2025.

In this episode, Clifton breaks down several end-of-year whiskey releases — including Clyde May’s new cask-strength pick, Central Waters’ Great Blue spirits launch, and State Line’s first-ever rye. He also dives into Copper & Kings’ major relaunch under new owners before reviewing one of the most unique whiskies he’s tried all year: Bruichladdich Laddie Rye, a 7-year Islay-grown rye/malted barley hybrid aged in first-fill bourbon and virgin oak casks.

In this special Black Friday episode, Clifton shares the best whiskey deals to shop this weekend, from Dark Arts bottle sales to big-name distillery merch and Whiskey Advocate subscription discounts. Then he reviews the new Town Branch Imperium Bourbon 2025, highlighting its chocolate-cherry sweetness, bold oak, and 105-proof heat before landing at a 7/10 rating. If you’re looking for the right whiskey deal and a new bourbon to try, this one’s for you.

Clifton breaks down the state of the bourbon boom — why the number of U.S. bourbon buyers is shrinking for the first time in two decades, why distillery expansions may have overshot demand, and why this shift could benefit everyday whiskey drinkers. After the news, he reviews the Ben Holladay 6-Year Bottled-In-Bond bourbon, praising its transparency, vintage-style nose, and balanced sweetness while still calling out the youth in its finish. Final verdict: 7.5/10 and absolutely worth the price.

In this episode, Clifton reviews Garrison Brothers Sonora Bourbon, a seven-year-old, 108-proof Texas straight bourbon finished in rye barrels and crafted by Samantha Olvera. Expect notes of sweet vanilla glaze, brown sugar pie, and a warm, spicy finish. He also recaps major whiskey and gaming news, from Michter’s 20’s return to Call of Duty Black Ops 7, rounding out a packed November pour.