Blind bourbon review of Maker’s 101 vs Wild Turkey 101. A full 101 proof bourbon tasting comparison of wheated vs high-rye Kentucky bourbon.

Maker’s Mark Private Selection “Southern Charm” takes classic wheated bourbon and pushes it into deeper wood territory with a bold stave finishing profile. We break down how each French and American oak stave impacts flavor — and whether this single barrel earns a second pour.

What happens when you listen to The Beatles the same way you drink bourbon? In this special episode of Tortured Bourbon, we pair each era of the band’s evolution with a whiskey that mirrors its mood, intention, and character — from the raw beginnings of Love Me Do to the restraint and resolution of Abbey Road. This isn’t a ranking or a tasting competition. It’s a shared listening experience, one pour at a time.

The Maker’s Mark Wood Finishing Series – North Carolina Edition is more than a limited bourbon release — it’s a tribute to the Old North State crafted by NC State alum Dr. Blake Layfield. In this episode, Tortured Bourbon dives into the story, tasting notes, and custom staves behind one of the most meaningful bottles we’ve ever opened.

Tortured Bourbon goes full dessert mode as Heather and B pair three decadent bourbons with three real desserts — an éclair, a crème brûlée, and a s’more. Maker’s Mark, Penelope Architect, and Penelope Toasted go head-to-head in the sweetest bourbon experiment we’ve ever attempted. Pastry, custard, campfire… and a whole lot of high-proof chaos.

Makers Mark Private Selection Eclair and Present Danger might be the most dessert-like bourbon we’ve tried. Milk chocolate, vanilla, and a hint of spice make this Youngsville ABC 2024 pick unforgettable.

In this Tortured Bourbon episode, Heather and B explore the Kentucky roots of Maker’s Mark with a deep dive into Star Hill Farm—the source of their new 2025 American Wheat Whiskey. This 100-proof wheat whiskey blends sustainability, terroir, and soft red winter wheat into a pour that’s as elegant as it is drinkable.