06/04/2026
First off, I am incredibly honored to manage what has become the largest bourbon club in Western New York!
Today, our club stands at 211 active members and continues to grow every single week. Five years ago, this very same club had only about 20 members. That kind of growth doesn't happen by accident. It comes from consistently selecting exceptional barrels, taking chances on unique picks, and delivering bourbons that our members are excited to explore.
Our club has never been about chasing the obvious choice. We seek out distinctive single barrels and special releases that many people might overlook—and that's exactly what makes this group so special.
NOW FOR THE EXCITING PART...
I finally received a preview of what my label will look like on the limited-edition Single Barrel Tribute to Ellicottville, produced by Rare Character!
There will be one final proof before the labels go to print. Once the label is approved and printed, we'll receive the official bottle count. (Yes, it's a little confusing... but I suppose they don't call them Rare Character for nothing!)
What we do know is that this barrel is expected to come in at mid-120s proof, making it a bold, full-flavored single barrel worthy of the tribute.
For transparency, we're currently estimating the bottle price will fall somewhere between $130-$150 per bottle. The reason for the range is simple: we have not yet received the final bottle yield from the barrel. We've been told to expect somewhere between 120 and 144 bottles, which is a fairly wide range. Once we have the final bottle count, we'll be able to lock in the exact price.
If you're interested in securing a bottle, please let me know. Based on the interest already generated, I fully expect these bottles to be spoken for before they even arrive. This release will be offered on a PRESALE basis only.
You can read more about the project in this week's Ellicottville NOW.
Thank you to everyone who has supported the Bourbon Club over the years. Going from 20 members to 211 members is something I'm incredibly proud of, and projects like this wouldn't be possible without all of you.
PS: We also have Tequila, Scotch & Wine Clubs!!! You really should check them out. Attend a class, taste one of my recipes!!!! I promise you won't be disappointed!
Speaking of Recipes.......
People always ask me what to do with a great bottle besides pour it in a glass.
The answer? A lot.
Over the past few years, I've combined my love of bourbon, food, educating, and recipe creation into a growing collection of Barrel & Twist Recipe Books.
From bourbon-glazed comfort foods and cocktails to summer porch drinks and wine-inspired dishes, these books are filled with recipes I actually make, serve, and share.
What makes these books even more special is that they're truly a labor of love. Every book is designed, formatted, printed, punched, and coil-bound by hand right here at home. No publishing company. No mass production. Just one bourbon-loving creator bringing an idea to life one page at a time.
My Bourbon Summer Book is now available in store for $25! It promises to have a recipe that you would have never thought Bourbon could pull off! I put my reputation on that!
Because great spirits deserve a place at the table—not just in the glass.
