Bottles and Bars #4: The Blind Barbour – Raleigh’s Hidden Bourbon GemPublished by Tortured Bourbon | Bottles & Bars Series

Sep 25

🧭 Welcome to The Blind Barbour

When you first pull into the strip mall parking lot that houses The Blind Barbour in Raleigh, NC, you might think you’ve made a wrong turn. Nestled between quiet storefronts, it’s the definition of unassuming. So when my husband told me this was my birthday surprise? I had doubts.

But the moment I stepped through the door, those doubts vanished. Instantly.

Inside, The Blind Barbour strikes that perfect balance of vintage saloon nostalgia without slipping into gimmick. It’s warm, worn-in, and welcoming—with a soul. Since opening in 2016, they’ve cultivated a bourbon list that rivals some of the best collections we’ve seen on our Bottles and Bars journey.

🏆 Bourbon Bliss in Every Pour

Before I even sat down at the rich wooden bar, I was overwhelmed—in the best possible way. I scanned the shelves and spotted Blanton’s Gold, Russell’s Reserve 13, and a house-pick Old Forester that had me ready to cancel our dinner plans. My husband laughed as I began planning our entire night around what I was going to sip next.

The bartender noticed my not-so-subtle bourbon geekery and jumped right in with recommendations. His suggestion? A Stagg private pick that still stands as the best pour of Stagg I’ve ever had. Period.

What followed was a blur of bottles, notes, stories, and laughter. Two days later, I dragged B back for a second round—and let’s just say neither of us complained.

Over the course of 48 hours, I had some of the finest bourbon experiences of my life. That’s not hyperbole. That’s Tortured Bourbon honesty.

🍸 For More Than Just Bourbon Nerds

Even if your palate isn’t fully tuned to the world of high-proof barrel strength monsters, The Blind Barbour still delivers. The cocktail menu is refined, creative, and thoughtful—a true love letter to balance. And for those less inclined toward the brown stuff, there’s a curated list of beers on tap to keep things flowing.

🎯 Why It Matters to Tortured Bourbon

At Tortured Bourbon, we’re on a mission to strip the pretension out of bourbon, while still celebrating quality pours and passionate craftsmanship. That means celebrating places where accessibility, authenticity, and adventure all come together in a Glencairn.

The Blind Barbour embodies that mission.

It’s not flashy. It doesn’t scream for attention. But it delivers. Big time.

We’ll be back soon—no doubt. And don’t worry: they’ve got a scotch list that will keep our favorite Aussie contributor smiling all night.