A hidden bourbon paradise tucked in a Raleigh strip mall? The Blind Barbour defies expectations and delivers one of the best sipping experiences in North Carolina. From antique saloon charm to a next-level bourbon list, this unassuming bar is pure Tortured Bourbon energy.

Bottles and Bars #3 takes us to Whiskey Kitchen in downtown Raleigh, a local favorite since 2016 that combines Southern-inspired food with one of the strongest bourbon lists in town. Whether you’re after a flight, a rare pour, or just fried chicken and fries, this spot always delivers.

Your favorite bourbon pour isn’t just about what’s in the glass — it’s about where you are, who you’re with, and what’s in the air. In this installment of Bottles and Bars, Heather explores how ambiance and community can elevate a good pour into an unforgettable moment. From Solo cups in smoke-filled rooms to celebratory sips in a whiskey bar, sometimes it’s the sights and sounds that make the magic.

Aesthetic bottles, bold moves, and a surprise Gen X twist — Penelope Bourbon is winning over millennials with style and substance. In this debut “Bottles and Bars,” Heather dives into the brand’s rise and her birthday bottle of Project X, the sleek black pour that proves looks and taste can kill.