🌾 HEARTLAND HONOR: Meet Bourbon #3

Bold Thought

Double-barrel bourbon isn’t just aged—it’s elevated. A second barrel unlocks deeper oak, richer corn sweetness, and new layers of flavor.

What Is Double‑Barrel Bourbon?

First, bourbon ages in a charred oak barrel. Then, it's moved into a fresh charred barrel to soak up additional complexity—notes like richer vanilla, caramel, nutmeg, and a velvety mouthfeel emerge. Think bourbon, but boldened with character.

#3: Cedar Ridge Double Barrel Bourbon

🌽 A Midwest gem finished in a second fresh American oak barrel 

Cedar Ridge, based in Iowa, transfers its flagship bourbon into a newly charred barrel for extra flavor. That second rest boosts corn sweetness, warm oak, and toasted spice at about 105 proof .

I stumbled on it at a summer fair in Iowa—right by the corn roast stand. A stranger poured me a sample, saying, “Midwest bourbon done right.” One sip delivered sweet corn, gentle spice, and a soft oak finish that felt like home in a bottle.

🛒 Buy It Here
👉 Cedar Ridge Double Barrel Bourbon  

🧪 The Art of Mixing: Iowa Sunset Highball

This drink highlights that extra oak without overpowering:

Ingredients

• 2 oz Cedar Ridge Double Barrel

• 3 oz apple cider

• ¼ oz maple syrup

• Dash of cinnamon

Instructions

1. Add everything to an ice-filled highball glass

2. Stir gently

3. Garnish with an apple slice or cinnamon stick

It tastes like walking through an orchard at dusk—sweet, crisp, satisfying.

Flavor Pairing Picks

Enjoy it alongside:

• 🧀 Sharp cheddar & sweet apple slices

• 🌽 Roasted corn salad with lime

• 🍫 Milk chocolate with sea salt

• 💨 A mellow Connecticut cigar

🛋️ Pull Up a Seat in The Art of the Pour Lounge

This space is where whiskey lovers unite—swapping stories, tasting notes, and pours that matter.

Inside, you’ll find rare finds, shared experiences, and the kind of conversation that pairs well with a glass in hand.

👉 Join The Art of the Pour Lounge—It’s Free!

Now It’s Your Turn…

• Have you tried Cedar Ridge?

• Got a favorite Midwest bourbon?

• Or a pairing that sings?

📩 Hit reply and share your thoughts
📌 Save this for fall sipping
📤 Forward to someone who loves discovering hidden gems

To sweet corn and sweeter pours,
Ethan “Neat” Whitmore 🥃

P.S.

Next Friday, I’ll introduce #2 in our series—a craft-selected powerhouse with barrel magic that’s gaining serious buzz. Stay tuned!